How to bid on Seney NWR Show Pool Shelter Replacement and Site Restoration for US Fish and Wildlife Service

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service needs a small business to replace a picnic shelter and perform site restoration at Seney National Wildlife Refuge in Germfask, Michigan. This project involves demolishing an existing wood-framed picnic shelter and concrete slab, then constructing a new shelter and slab.

The work also includes repairing a fireplace and chimney, relocating a wood kiosk, building concrete parking areas, a picnic table pad, and sidewalks. Additionally, a gravel trail will be constructed, along with seeding and other miscellaneous site improvements. This is a firm fixed-price contract, and the award will be based on the lowest price technically acceptable offer.

The project magnitude is estimated to be between $100,000 and $250,000. Work is expected to start within 10 days of receiving a Notice to Proceed and must be completed by an agreed-upon date at the time of award.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This pre-solicitation notice was published on July 14, 2026. The final solicitation package is expected to be posted on SAM.gov around July 29, 2026. All responses must be submitted by the deadline of August 28, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. Submissions received after this time will likely not be considered.

A pre-proposal site visit and instructions will be announced with the full solicitation package. Direct any questions in writing via email only to Samantha LaGue at [email protected].

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is specifically for small businesses. The relevant NAICS code is 238990, "All Other Specialty Trade Contractors," with a size standard of $19 million. Firms with experience in demolition, new construction, concrete work, landscaping, and general site improvements would be well-suited.

Contractors must be registered in SAM (System for Award Management) and have completed their Online Representations and Certifications to be eligible for award.

How to respond

The complete solicitation will be posted on SAM.gov under Contract Opportunities on or about July 29, 2026. To access the opportunity, 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 a free account on the portal to view all documents, though for many bids this is not required. Ensure your SAM registration is active and your Online Representations and Certifications are complete before submitting a proposal.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Since this will be a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) award, focus on submitting the most competitive price while clearly demonstrating that your firm meets all technical requirements. Carefully review the full solicitation when it is released to understand all specifications and evaluation criteria.

Pay close attention to the bonding requirements: a 20% Bid Bond, 20% Payment Bond, and 20% Performance Bond are required. Begin discussions with your bonding company early to ensure you can meet these requirements. Attend the pre-proposal site visit if one is announced, as this can provide valuable insights into the project scope and site conditions.

Ensure your proposal is well-organized, addresses every requirement outlined in the solicitation, and is submitted on time. Double-check all calculations and ensure your pricing is accurate and complete.