Thunderstruck Crown Touch Release Project

The USDA Forest Service is soliciting quotations for the Thunderstruck Crown Touch Release Project, providing timber stand improvement services on approximately 100 to 224 acres within the Clinch Ranger District of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests in Scott County, Virginia. This total small business set-aside under NAICS 115310 requires the contractor to provide all labor, equipment, and supervision to perform four-sided crown-touch release treatments. The primary objective is to achieve a free-to-grow rating of 4 for 15 to 30 priority trees per acre, including specific oak and hickory species, while protecting designated species such as yellow pines and American chestnut. The period of performance is scheduled from August 17, 2026, to December 31, 2026, with an estimated value under 75,000 dollars. Award will be based on a best value tradeoff, prioritizing previous successful completion of similar work on the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, familiarity with Southern Appalachian tree species, and past performance evaluations over price. Technical requirements include the removal of all slash from road prisms and the girdling of trees that pose safety risks during felling. Work will be inspected by the Contracting Officer's Representative, with acceptance contingent upon releasing 90 percent or more of possible crop trees per unit. Offerors must submit their quotations by June 24, 2026, including a technical capability narrative, SAM registration confirmation, and price per acre.