Professional Archaeological Services

The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks & Recreation (FPR) is soliciting proposals under Solicitation Number 72108 to establish contracts with qualified firms for professional archaeological services on FPR-owned lands throughout Vermont. The contract scope includes conducting Archaeological Resource Assessments (ARAs), Historic Resource Reviews (HRRs), and Phase I, II, and III archaeological investigations in compliance with Vermont State Historic Preservation Office guidelines. The work involves a combination of desktop research, field reconnaissance, GIS data preparation, and detailed reporting to document findings and support land management activities, including projects such as trail maintenance, bridge construction, and timber harvest planning. The service contract is for a base period of two years, starting January 5, 2026, with options to renew for two additional one-year periods, and an estimated annual value of approximately $100,000. Proposal submissions must demonstrate relevant experience, including knowledge of archaeological standards, regulatory compliance, and proficiency in GIS applications. Key personnel must be identified with detailed resumes, illustrating capacity to meet project timelines and cost-effectiveness. The evaluation of proposals is based on factors such as technical quality, experience, pricing, and the ability to meet deadlines, with awards made in the best interest of the State. There is a strong emphasis on compliance with state and federal historic preservation laws, including Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and Vermont statutes related to cultural resource protection. Deliverables include comprehensive written reports with management recommendations, GIS shapefiles, and archiving requirements for recovered materials. Contract administration is overseen by designated FPR staff, specifically Niels Rinehart, who acts as the primary contracting officer’s representative. Proposals are due December 31, 2025, and must be submitted as sealed hard copies in PDF format by mail or hand delivery; electronic submissions are not accepted. The contract provides mechanisms for oversight, quality assurance, and potential termination for non-performance, with provisions to address conflicts of interest, confidentiality claims, and anti-collusion. Overall, this solicitation targets firms capable of supporting Vermont’s cultural resource management through professional archaeological expertise, facilitating responsible stewardship of public lands.