Midewin National Forest Seed Production Invasive Control

Summary (Newest Update)

Background The Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, located in Will County, Illinois, aims to reduce noxious weeds and invasive plant infestations while preventing new invaders. This initiative is part of the Prairie-Wide Habitat Maintenance Environmental Assessment. The area was previously managed by the Department of Defense (DoD), which led to the introduction and spread of invasive species. The Forest Service has been working to control these species, and this contract focuses on implementing an integrated pest management strategy through herbicide application. Work Details The contractor will provide all necessary expertise, labor, supervision, services, herbicides, carriers or adjuvants, materials, equipment, tools, supplies, transportation, licenses, permits, personal protective equipment (PPE), and incidentals required for invasive species control. Tasks include: - Applying foliar herbicides to specific Non-Native Invasive Species (NNIS) infestations; - Treating shrubs and woody brush; - Using selective methods to minimize impact on non-target vegetation; - Conducting treatments based on site-specific factors such as location and infestation size; - Ensuring compliance with environmental assessments regarding herbicide use; - Employing hand methods and chemicals for NNIS elimination; - Placing caution signs in public areas; - Following all federal, state, and local regulations during herbicide application. Period of Performance The contract will be performed from May 11, 2026, to September 15, 2026. Place of Performance Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie located in Wilmington, Illinois.