How to bid on Elk Lick Dam Decommissioning & Restoration for the U.S. Forest Service

What the agency is buying

The U.S. Forest Service is seeking a contractor to decommission the Elk Lick Dam and restore the stream channel in the Monongahela National Forest. This project involves removing the existing concrete gravity dam and establishing a stable stream channel through the area that was formerly a reservoir.

This opportunity is a 100% small business set-aside under NAICS code 237990, which covers Other Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction. The size standard for this NAICS code is $45 million, meaning your business must meet this revenue threshold to qualify as a small business for this solicitation.

Key dates and deadlines

The solicitation was published on July 30, 2026. All quotations must be submitted by August 28, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. Late quotations or those that do not follow the instructions may not be considered.

A site visit is scheduled for August 11, 2026, at 9:30 AM EDT. To attend, you must contact Matthew Killian, the Contracting Officer, via email at [email protected]. The meet-up coordinates are 39.061205, -79.668473.

Who this opportunity suits

This project is ideal for small businesses specializing in heavy and civil engineering construction, particularly those with experience in dam removal, stream restoration, and similar environmental remediation or infrastructure projects. The work involves significant construction services related to water infrastructure and land restoration.

Firms with a strong background in environmental engineering, civil construction, or specialized demolition and earthwork will find this opportunity relevant. Given the location in a National Forest, experience with federal land projects or working in sensitive natural environments could be beneficial.

How to respond

To access the solicitation, click “View original source” on the portal. If you land on the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account to view all documents, though this is not always required.

This is a Request for Quotation (RFQ), and a separate written solicitation will not be issued. You must review all solicitation materials, including all instructions to offerors and attachments, before preparing and submitting your quotation. Ensure your submission fully complies with all stated requirements to avoid being deemed non-responsive.

Tips for a competitive response

Thoroughly review all specifications and attachments provided in the solicitation. Pay close attention to the scope of work for dam removal and stream channel restoration, as well as any specific technical requirements or performance standards.

Attend the site visit if possible. This is a crucial opportunity to understand the project site conditions, ask questions directly to the agency, and gain insights that can inform a more accurate and competitive quotation. Remember to contact Matthew Killian to confirm your attendance.

Clearly articulate your firm's experience with similar projects, especially those involving dam decommissioning, stream restoration, or work within national forests or other protected natural areas. Highlight your team's qualifications and any specialized equipment or techniques you plan to use.