The Department of Agriculture, specifically the Forest Service, is seeking bids for a 2-ton capacity single axle fertilizer spreader intended for orchard maintenance at the Tusquitee Ranger District in Murphy, North Carolina. The procurement requires a compact design capable of distributing fertilizer and lime effectively in tight orchard environments characterized by steep and rough terrain, with specific features such as a stainless steel hopper and a minimum spread pattern of 40 feet. This initiative underscores the federal commitment to engaging small businesses in government contracting, with proposals due by September 23, 2024, and all submissions must comply with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) provisions. Interested vendors can contact Tobi Shumaker at tobi.shumaker@usda.gov for further details.