The National Park Service is soliciting quotations for a firm fixed-price contract (RFQ 140P4225R0013) to apply limestone sand across the Meadow Run Watershed in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. Proposals must adhere to specific formatting and content guidelines, including a Work Plan, Safety Plans, Past Experience, and a Price Schedule, to be submitted by August 29, 2025. The proposal must demonstrate knowledge of the project and compliance with safety protocols, showcasing similar past projects over the last seven years. The selection will consider the work plan’s feasibility, safety measures, past performance, and pricing realism. Offerors must ensure registration in the System for Award Management and comply with various federal regulations outlined in the solicitation. The project emphasizes the importance of detailed planning and safety procedures for ecological restoration efforts and is part of the National Park Service’s broader environmental management strategy.
The National Park Service (NPS) proposes a project to restore the Meadow Run watershed in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, which has been severely impacted by decades of acidic deposition from air pollution, leading to degraded water quality and affected ecosystems. Under the proposed action, limestone sand will be applied via helicopter to improve soil chemistry and increase pH levels, facilitating recovery of aquatic and terrestrial life, including brook trout and native plants. The project area spans 2,150 acres, with two action alternatives presented: a split-dose liming targeting more acidified soils (Alternative B) and uniform-dose liming across the entire project area (Alternative C). The preferred Alternative B offers a more tailored approach to site conditions.
Visitor safety measures will include trail closures, and helicopter operations will be timed for low visitor periods during winter. Monitoring of environmental outcomes will follow liming to assess efficacy. Without action, the current ecological degradation is expected to persist for over a century. This initiative not only aims to restore the ecosystem but aligns with federal commitments under the Clean Water Act and a court settlement with industry, making it a key environmental restoration project.
The document, \"140P42225R0013 – SHEN Meadow Run Liming Q & A,\" addresses key questions regarding the Shenandoah National Park liming project. It clarifies weight limits for limestone transport, noting a 40,000-pound limit from May 1 to November 30 and 20,000 pounds from December 1 to April 30, with waivers often approved for heavier loads. The National Park Service (NPS) is flexible on application equipment, prioritizing safety, legal operation, and accurate, uniform limestone application with data capture. There is no set number of runs; the project schedule is limited by seasonal park conditions, with staging and application dates defined in the Statement of Work. The intent is to avoid weekend/holiday operations, acknowledging weather and road limitations, which should be factored into the detailed project schedule.
This document addresses contractor questions regarding the SHEN Meadow Run Liming project (140P4225R0013). Key points include clarification on Skyline Drive weight limits and waivers, specifying that waivers are cost-free for submittals, with the winning offeror applying post-award. The Doyles River overlook will not be a staging area due to visitor impact. Drone use for verifying lime application is permissible with written Superintendent approval and adherence to FAA/DOI regulations. No cooperator agreement for aviation services is needed as the NPS is soliciting for limestone application, not aviation. Weight limits on park roadways vary seasonally (40,000 lbs May-Nov; 20,000 lbs Dec-Apr), with waivers possible for heavier loads. The NPS is open to various application equipment as long as it operates safely, legally, and uniformly applies lime while capturing data. There is no set number of runs; the project is limited by calendar dates due to seasonal conditions. Finally, offers must address the full 'turnkey scope,' as bids solely for limestone application are unlikely to provide the best value.
The document outlines the pricing schedule for liming operations in Shenandoah National Park, managed by the National Park Service. It primarily details a contract for liming activities scheduled for winter 2025-2026 and extends into an option period for winter 2026-2027. The scope involves a base period of liming operations for a lump sum and the option for increased quantities at specified rates, with maximum awards set for the acreage to be treated with two different liming rates—2.25 tons/acre and 3.0 tons/acre. Specific acreage limits are described, highlighting a maximum of 885 acres at 2.25 tons/acre for the initial contract and 755 acres in the option period. The structure of the document categorizes costs for base and option periods, along with variations based on expected treatment quantities, establishing a clear framework for bids related to ecosystem management within the national park. This RFP reflects the government’s investment in environmental stewardship and maintenance of natural resources.
The Shenandoah National Park Service (NPS) requests proposals for a service contract to apply approximately 5,250 tons of limestone sand to the Meadow Run Watershed for ecosystem restoration. The project targets acidic groundwater affecting the stream's aquatic life, making it the most acidified stream in the park. The contract spans two base periods (Winter 2025-2026 and Winter 2026-2027) and includes options for additional acreage. The project necessitates careful logistical planning due to the area's remote wilderness setting, with all operations conducted during daylight hours.
The contractor is responsible for limestone acquisition, treatment documentation, and restoration of staging areas post-operation. The Environmental Assessment and a Finding of No Significant Impact were previously documented, underscoring compliance with environmental regulations. Communication protocols between NPS and the contractor are outlined to ensure safety and operational efficiency. Ultimately, the project aims to improve water quality in Meadow Run, benefiting fish species and overall ecosystem health while fostering improved visitor experiences in the national park.