Joey Korst

Joey Korst serves as a procurement lead for the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, overseeing the acquisition of specialized trade services critical to maintaining the agency’s public lands infrastructure. Responsible for managing contracts that support trail restoration, road maintenance, and ecological resilience projects, Korst ensures that procurement activities align with the U.S. Forest Service’s mission of sustainable land management. Their role involves evaluating technical proposals, ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations, and coordinating with field operations to translate resource needs into precise solicitation requirements, primarily for non-construction specialty trade services. Korst maintains collaborative relationships with a network of small, locally based specialty trade contractors who deliver skilled labor for vegetation management, erosion control, and infrastructure repair across Washington’s rugged forest terrain. While no single contractor dominates the portfolio, the procurement pattern reflects a preference for agile, regionally rooted vendors capable of mobilizing quickly in remote, environmentally sensitive areas. These partnerships are built on demonstrated expertise in site-specific conditions and a proven record of safety and environmental stewardship. A staunch advocate for small business participation, Korst applies a 100% small business set-aside policy across all eligible acquisitions, consistently directing contracts to small businesses certified under FAR 19.5. This approach reinforces the agency’s commitment to economic inclusion and community resilience, ensuring that local enterprises benefit from federal investment in public lands. Socioeconomic contracting is not an add-on but a foundational element of every solicitation. The primary NAICS focus is 238990 (All Other Specialty Trade Contractors), encompassing services such as rock bolting, brush clearing, native plant installation, and temporary access construction. Korst’s technical expertise lies in procuring niche, labor-intensive services that require specialized equipment and field knowledge, ensuring that contract deliverables meet rigorous environmental and safety standards while supporting the forest’s long-term ecological health.