How to bid on Sherando Recreation Area Rehabilitation with the Department of Agriculture

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The U.S. Forest Service, part of the Department of Agriculture, is seeking a small business contractor to rehabilitate the Sherando Recreation Area within the George Washington-Jefferson National Forest in Lyndhurst, VA. This project involves replacing the outdated water distribution system, rehabilitating existing bathhouses, and renovating Day Use area facilities. The current infrastructure is obsolete and beyond its useful life, making this a critical upgrade for the recreation area.

This opportunity is a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for commercial construction services. It is a total small business set-aside, meaning only small businesses can submit a quote. The applicable NAICS code is 237110, with a small business size standard of $45 million.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The solicitation was published on September 04, 2026. Quotes are due by September 18, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. This deadline is firm, and all submissions must be received by this time for consideration. An amendment to the solicitation changed this quote deadline and added other important information.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is specifically for small business concerns in the construction industry, particularly those with experience in infrastructure replacement, facility rehabilitation, and renovation projects. Firms specializing in water system installation, bathhouse upgrades, and general recreation area improvements under NAICS 237110 are well-suited. Given the total small business set-aside, this is an excellent chance for eligible small businesses to secure a federal contract.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the solicitation documents and prepare your response, you will need to view the original source on the portal. Sometimes, the first click may take you to the portal's homepage; if so, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all documents, though for some bids, this is not required. All responsible sources are encouraged to submit a quotation.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully review all solicitation documents, including Amendment 01, which contains changes to the due date, site visit information, questions and answers, and updated project documents like the Schedule of Items, Statement of Work, and attachments for permits and septic calculations/soil reports. Ensure your quote directly addresses all requirements outlined in the Statement of Work.

Pay close attention to the specific details regarding the failing water distribution system, bathhouse rehabilitation, and Day Use facility renovations. Clearly articulate your firm's experience with similar projects and how you plan to meet the technical specifications. Since this is an RFQ, ensure your pricing is competitive and accurately reflects the scope of work. Attending any pre-quote meetings or reviewing their transcripts and PowerPoints, such as the one posted on August 12, 2026, can provide valuable insights.