Longleaf Timber Stand Improvement
AGRICULTURE, DEPARTMENT OF.FOREST SERVICE.USDA-FS, CSA EAST 8 · Response deadline: Tue, 27 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The U.S. Forest Service is seeking a contractor for Longleaf Timber Stand Improvement work in Silver Springs, Florida. Timber stand improvement (TSI) is a common forestry practice that involves selective vegetation management to promote the health and productivity of forest stands—in this case, longleaf pine ecosystems. Longleaf pine restoration and maintenance is a well-established priority for the Forest Service and other land management agencies across the Southeast, as longleaf pine forests are among the most biodiverse ecosystems in North America and have declined significantly from their historical range.
Typical TSI activities may include removing competing vegetation, midstory control, prescribed burning preparation, or other silvicultural treatments that improve growing conditions for desired tree species. The specific scope of work, acreage, treatment methods, and performance standards for this particular project are not included in the available metadata—see the solicitation for complete technical requirements.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | USDA Forest Service, CSA East 8 |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | 12444726Q0070 |
| NAICS | 115310 |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside - Total |
| Response deadline | October 26, 2026, 11:59 PM ET |
| Place of performance | Silver Springs, FL |
Who can bid
This opportunity is reserved for small businesses under a total small business set-aside. To qualify, your business must:
- Be registered in SAM.gov (System for Award Management) with active status
- Meet the NAICS 1153110 size standard—typically measured by average annual receipts over the last five years (check the current size standard at SBA.gov, as thresholds are periodically updated)
- Have NAICS 115310 registered in your SAM profile or demonstrate capability in "Support Activities for Forestry," which includes services such as timber cruising, forest management planning, fire prevention and protection, and reforestation services
If you are a certified 8(a), HUBZone, service-disabled veteran-owned, or women-owned small business, you may bid under this total small business set-aside as well. No large businesses or entities that exceed the small business size standard are eligible.
How to put together a competitive bid
For forestry services contracts, agencies evaluate technical capability, past performance, and price. To strengthen your bid:
Demonstrate relevant experience. Highlight completed timber stand improvement, longleaf pine restoration, or comparable silviculture projects. Include government contract references if available, or commercial work on federal, state, or private timberlands.
Emphasize local knowledge and workforce. Silver Springs lies within the Ocala National Forest region, where longleaf pine sandhills and flatwoods are common. Familiarity with Central Florida soils, fire-adapted ecosystems, and invasive species management (such as cogongrass or old-world climbing fern) can distinguish your technical proposal.
Address equipment and logistics. TSI work requires specialized equipment—hydraulic tree shears, forestry mulchers, chainsaw crews, or herbicide application rigs. Clearly state what equipment you own or will lease, and confirm your crew's availability for the contract period.
Safety and environmental compliance. Forestry work involves significant hazards. Detail your safety program, workers' compensation status, and any herbicide applicator licenses required in Florida. The Forest Service typically requires adherence to agency-specific safety protocols.
Price competitively but realistically. Review wage determinations if the Service Contract Act applies, and account for travel, lodging, and per diem if your base of operations is outside the Silver Springs area.
Next steps
- Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number 12444726Q0070 or by searching the title "Longleaf Timber Stand Improvement"
- Download all attachments, including the statement of work, contract clauses, and any wage determinations or EM 385-1-1 safety requirements if applicable
- Confirm your SAM registration is active and reflects NAICS 115310
- Submit your offer by October 26, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time—late submissions are typically not accepted in Forest Service sealed bid or proposal evaluations
If you are new to Forest Service contracting, consider contacting the contracting officer with clarifying questions well before the deadline, and allow adequate time for any required bonding or insurance certificates.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →