Francisco Rico

Francisco Rico serves as a Watershed Engineer with the Tahoe National Forest under the U.S. Forest Service, where he plays a critical role in planning, evaluating, and overseeing infrastructure projects that enhance watershed health, erosion control, and forest resilience. His responsibilities include technical oversight of civil and environmental engineering acquisitions aligned with forest restoration goals, particularly those involving road and trail stabilization, culvert replacement, and drainage system upgrades. As a subject matter expert, Rico collaborates closely with contracting professionals to define technical requirements, ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and validate contractor performance for projects that safeguard public safety and ecological integrity across the forest’s jurisdiction. While specific contractor names are not available, Rico consistently engages with firms possessing specialized expertise in hydraulic engineering, sediment control, and forest infrastructure maintenance. His procurement patterns reflect close collaboration with contractors capable of executing complex, environmentally sensitive work under stringent federal standards, often requiring site-specific engineering solutions and adaptive construction methodologies. He fosters partnerships with vendors who demonstrate proven experience in federal forest service environments and adherence to NEPA and ESA compliance protocols. Rico’s acquisition strategy is fully aligned with a 100% Small Business Set-Aside preference under FAR 19.5, reflecting a strong institutional commitment to economic inclusion and local workforce development. He prioritizes contracting with small businesses, including HUBZone and SDVOSB entities, to ensure that restoration efforts stimulate regional economic activity while maintaining technical rigor. This approach reinforces the Forest Service’s broader mission to build community resilience through equitable procurement. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 237310 (Highway, Street, and Bridge Construction) and 238290 (Other Building Equipment Contractors), underscoring his expertise in civil infrastructure tied to forest access and watershed function. He procures services such as grading, erosion control systems, culvert installation, and temporary stream crossing solutions—all essential to maintaining forest road networks and mitigating post-wildfire sedimentation risks.