F-- Service, Hazardous Fuels Reduction and Tree Healt

The National Park Service intends to award a sole-source, firm fixed-price contract to F.A. Bartlett Tree Experts for hazardous fuels reduction and tree health services at Charles Pinckney National Historic Site, citing the irreplaceable nature of the site’s 250-year-old live oaks and Bartlett’s unique, long-standing expertise developed through prior work on the property. Bartlett has already created a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan for all 298 trees onsite, making them the only contractor capable of executing the work without risking damage to these historic resources or duplicating extensive prior research. The project includes removal of invasive vines, TRAQ-certified pruning, and reduction of fire fuels such as undergrowth, small trees, and duff layers to create defensible space, improving visitor safety and reducing liability. The timing is critical, as 2026 marks Charleston’s Freedom 250 commemorations, heightening the public and cultural importance of preserving these living landmarks. Due to Bartlett’s proven safety record, site-specific knowledge, and inability of any other vendor to replicate their work without significant cost and delay, the government is justified in selecting them under FAR Part 6.302-1. The contract falls under NAICS code 561730 for landscaping services, with a standard size of $9.5 million, and no solicitation will be issued—this notice serves solely to document the intent to award without competition. All communications regarding the notice must be directed to the designated point of contact, and no bidder’s list will be maintained.