F--Mechanical Fuel Reduction-MT Fire Zone/CMR NWR, Lewistown, MT

Contract 140FS223Q0163 is a firm fixed-price award for mechanical fuel reduction services at the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge in Phillips County, Montana, near Lewistown. Managed by the Department of the Interior's U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the project focuses on the mechanical grinding and mastication of ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and juniper across 222 acres. The primary objectives are to reduce hazardous fuels and conifer encroachment to mitigate wildfire risk while simultaneously improving wildlife habitat. The project area is specifically located north of Fred Robinson Bridge to mile marker 94 and east of the highway to the refuge fence. The contract is structured with a base year running from September 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, with four additional option years extending through 2027. This opportunity was designated as a total small business set-aside, specifically targeting women-owned small businesses under NAICS code 115310 for forestry services. The selected contractor is responsible for providing all necessary labor, equipment, supervision, and a comprehensive quality control plan. All work must adhere to Montana statewide wage determinations and federal labor standards, with operations scheduled Monday through Friday from 0700 to 1700.