James Scola

James Scola serves as the Designated Federal Contracting Officer (DFMO) for the Gila National Forest, where he leads the acquisition and contract management of mission-critical infrastructure and operational support services. In this role, he ensures compliance with federal procurement regulations while advancing the U.S. Forest Service’s mandate to sustain forest health and public safety. Scola oversees a diverse portfolio of acquisitions including water and sewer system rehabilitation, trail and facility maintenance, utility upgrades, and environmental remediation projects. His procurement activities are strategically aligned with the agency’s focus on ecological stewardship and resilient public infrastructure, requiring deep technical understanding of federal land management operations and environmental compliance standards. Scola maintains collaborative relationships with a broad spectrum of contractors specializing in forestry, civil engineering, and environmental services. He routinely engages with firms experienced in federal land management contracting, including those with expertise in erosion control, wildland fire mitigation, and sustainable utility systems. His working relationship pattern emphasizes performance-based outcomes, rigorous contract administration, and long-term vendor partnerships grounded in accountability and regulatory adherence. While specific set-aside data is not currently available, Scola operates within the Department of Agriculture’s strong institutional commitment to socioeconomic contracting. He actively prioritizes participation from small businesses, including 8(a), HUBZone, and SDVOSB-certified entities, in alignment with federal mandates to promote equitable access to government contracting opportunities. His procurement approach reflects a deliberate effort to foster local economic development and enhance community resilience through inclusive contracting practices. Scola’s primary industry focus centers on NAICS codes related to environmental remediation (562910), construction of utility systems (237130), and forest management services (115310). He procures specialized services such as water infrastructure rehabilitation, wastewater treatment upgrades, trail construction, and ecological restoration, requiring contractors with proven experience in federal land use regulations and sustainable resource management practices.