USDA-Forest Service Region 9 Marking and Cruising BPA Call. Jackalope Timber Marking/Cruising on Ottawa National Forest

Summary (Newest Update)

Background This contract opportunity is issued by the USDA Forest Service Region 9, specifically for the Jackalope Timber Marking and Cruising project in the Ottawa National Forest, Michigan. The purpose of this non-personal services contract is to conduct timber marking and cruising to support forest management goals, including maintaining species diversity and ecological health within the forest. Work Details The contractor will perform the following tasks: - Apply silvicultural treatments aimed at regenerating and restoring healthy uneven-aged northern hardwood stands. - Target a residual basal area of 70 - 80 square feet per acre while ensuring that no more than one-third of the initial trees per acre are removed. - Retain or increase species diversity by preserving species other than sugar maple and promoting healthy growth of white pine, hemlock, cedar, oak, and elm. - Achieve a stocking level of 3,000 seedlings per acre of native species. - Maintain ecological processes in riparian areas within the sale area. Specific marking guidelines include: - Use single tree selection method with a target residual basal area of 70 - 80 square feet per acre. - Remove high-risk trees that are diseased or structurally damaged while retaining healthy specimens. - Prioritize removal of maple species to enhance overall species diversity. Post-harvest activities include conducting stocking surveys in the first and third years after harvest and certifying natural regeneration once goals are met. Period of Performance The contract will be performed over multiple years with specific activities scheduled for 2030 through 2033, including harvesting and subsequent surveys. Place of Performance The work will be conducted in the Jackalope timber sale area within the Ottawa National Forest located in Michigan.