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Vegetation Control and Inspection Railroad Service

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE ARMY.AMC.ACC.ACC-OO.409TH CSB.0409 AQ HQ CONTRACT · Response deadline: Fri, 13 Nov 2026

What the government is buying

The Department of the Army is soliciting bids for vegetation control and inspection services along railroad infrastructure. This work typically involves maintaining railroad rights-of-way by clearing brush, trees, and other vegetation that could interfere with rail operations or create safety hazards. Inspection services generally include monitoring track conditions, identifying vegetation encroachment risks, and ensuring compliance with operational safety standards.

Under NAICS code 488210—Support Activities for Rail Transportation—this contract falls within an industry category that encompasses specialized services maintaining and supporting rail infrastructure rather than operating freight or passenger lines itself.

Key facts

Who can bid

This solicitation is full and open competition with no set-aside program, meaning all responsible sources may submit offers regardless of business size or socioeconomic status. However, small businesses—including those self-certified as small under NAICS 488210's size standard—are encouraged to compete.

To qualify, bidders must demonstrate capabilities in railroad vegetation management, which typically requires: specialized equipment (brush cutters, herbicide applicators, vegetation clearance machinery); trained personnel familiar with railroad safety protocols; and often compliance with Federal Railroad Administration regulations when working on or near active track. See the solicitation for specific experience requirements, safety certifications, and any required past performance documentation.

Security clearances or base access credentials may be required given the Army contracting activity. Firms should verify whether the work occurs on military installations or civilian rail lines serving defense facilities.

How to put together a competitive bid

Understand the scope precisely. Railroad vegetation control contracts vary significantly—services may range from mechanical mowing to herbicide application, tree removal, or integrated vegetation management programs. The solicitation should specify acreage, frequency, geographic spread, and whether inspection services are continuous or periodic.

Emphasize safety credentials. Rail work demands strict adherence to roadway worker protection rules, flagging procedures, and coordination with rail traffic control. Highlight any Railroad Worker Training and Qualification compliance, OSHA safety records, and experience with confined track windows.

Price strategically. Without set-aside restrictions, expect competition from large established rail contractors. Break down costs transparently: equipment mobilization, per-mile or per-acre rates, seasonal variations, and emergency response pricing if applicable.

Address environmental compliance. Herbicide use near military lands typically requires detailed chemical specifications, application protocols, and ecological safeguards. See the solicitation for approved product lists or integrated pest management requirements.

Demonstrate responsiveness. The 10-day response window suggests either streamlined acquisition procedures or a re-solicitation; clarify any ambiguities through the contracting officer promptly.

Next steps

Access the complete solicitation W912PB27QA002 on SAM.gov to review detailed specifications, contract clauses, and submission instructions. Confirm the response deadline reflects your local time zone—November 13, 2026 at 12:30 PM UTC+2—and verify whether SAM registration and any required Army vendor qualifications are current before preparing your offer.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →