Watermelon Pond Preserve (West Tract) - Alachua County Preserves Hunting Services Agreement

Background

The Alachua County Board of County Commissioners is seeking proposals from qualified individuals or entities for the provision of hunting services at the Watermelon Pond Preserve (West Tract). The mission of the Alachua County Forever Program is to acquire, improve, and manage environmentally significant lands that protect water resources, wildlife habitat, and natural areas suitable for resource-based recreation. The preserve consists of 204 acres located in Newberry, Florida, and is managed by the Alachua County Environmental Protection Department.

Work Details

The selected Hunter will provide hunting services under a Multi-Year Hunting Agreement which includes caretaking and maintenance services on certain Alachua County Forever managed lands. Specific services include: 1. Permitted hunting for two hunters and one guest each, with limits on wildlife harvested according to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations. 2. Maintenance of the property in a clean and orderly manner. 3. Monthly reporting of activities including maintenance, security activities, game harvested, and feral hog control documentation. 4. Control of feral hog populations through hunting and trapping as necessary. 5. Compliance with all state hunting statutes and regulations.

Period of Performance

The contract is expected to begin on October 1, 2027, and continue through September 30, 2031.

Place of Performance

Watermelon Pond Preserve (West Tract), located in Newberry, Florida.

Bidder Requirements

Bidders must comply with insurance requirements including commercial general liability coverage of at least $300,000 per occurrence; automobile liability coverage of at least $500,000; workers' compensation as per statutory limits; and must provide a Certificate of Insurance naming Alachua County as an additional insured. Bidders must also be registered with the County's Public Portal to submit proposals.