Forest Service Awards $444K Landscaping Contract for Sam Houston NF, Lasting 4 Years

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $44,400 ($44.4K)

Contractor: Ricky J Burton

Awarding Agency: Department of Agriculture

Start Date: 2023-08-01

End Date: 2027-07-31

Contract Duration: 1,460 days

Daily Burn Rate: $30/day

Competition Type: COMPETED UNDER SAP

Number of Offers Received: 8

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Other

Official Description: GENERAL LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE OF THE SAM HOUSTON NF DISTRICT COMPOUND GROUNDS AND SECURITY FENCE LINE

Place of Performance

Location: NEW WAVERLY, WALKER County, TEXAS, 77358

State: Texas Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Agriculture obligated $44,400 to RICKY J BURTON for work described as: GENERAL LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE OF THE SAM HOUSTON NF DISTRICT COMPOUND GROUNDS AND SECURITY FENCE LINE Key points: 1. Contract value is modest at $444K over four years. 2. Competition method (SAP) suggests potential for better price discovery. 3. Risk appears low given the nature of landscaping services. 4. Spending is within the 'Other Services' sector, with landscaping being a common municipal/federal need.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The $444K contract over four years averages $111K annually. This appears reasonable for comprehensive landscaping and fence line maintenance for a significant federal facility.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: limited

The contract was competed under Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP), indicating a limited competition approach. While not full and open, SAP aims for fair pricing for smaller procurements.

Taxpayer Impact: The $444K expenditure is a necessary cost for maintaining federal property and security, with the limited competition likely ensuring a reasonable price.

Public Impact

Ensures upkeep and aesthetic appeal of federal grounds. Supports security by maintaining the fence line. Provides local employment opportunities through the contractor.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for limited competition under SAP.
Contract duration may exceed actual need if performance is poor.

Positive Signals

Clear scope of work for landscaping and fence line.
Firm Fixed Price contract limits cost overruns.
Long-term contract provides stability for service provider.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls under general services, specifically landscaping. Annual spending on landscaping for federal facilities can vary widely based on size and location, but this $111K annual spend is typical for a medium-sized compound.

Small Business Impact

The contract was competed under SAP, which often favors small businesses. However, specific small business set-aside status is not indicated, so direct analysis is limited.

Oversight & Accountability

The contract is a Purchase Order, a common instrument for services. Oversight would typically be managed by the Forest Service contracting officer's representative (COR) to ensure service delivery.

Related Government Programs

Landscaping Services
Department of Agriculture Contracting
Forest Service Programs

Risk Flags

Potential for price creep over the contract term.
Contract duration may be longer than necessary.
Limited competition could result in a suboptimal price.
Performance monitoring is crucial for value realization.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Agriculture awarded $44,400 to RICKY J BURTON. GENERAL LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE OF THE SAM HOUSTON NF DISTRICT COMPOUND GROUNDS AND SECURITY FENCE LINE

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is RICKY J BURTON.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Agriculture (Forest Service).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $44,400.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2023-08-01. End: 2027-07-31.

What is the typical cost range for similar landscaping contracts for federal facilities of comparable size?

The typical cost range for similar landscaping contracts can vary significantly based on geographic location, specific services required (e.g., mowing, tree trimming, pest control), and the size of the facility. However, an annual spend of $100K-$150K is often seen for comprehensive maintenance of federal grounds of moderate size, suggesting this contract is within a reasonable benchmark.

What are the potential risks associated with a 4-year landscaping contract awarded under SAP?

Risks include potential for price escalation if not adequately managed, contractor underperformance over the long term without sufficient recourse, and missed opportunities for cost savings through re-competition if market prices decrease. The limited competition under SAP could also mean a less competitive price than a full and open solicitation.

How effectively does this contract ensure the long-term value and maintenance of the Sam Houston NF grounds?

The contract aims for effectiveness by securing consistent landscaping services over four years, preventing degradation of grounds and ensuring security fence line integrity. The firm fixed price structure provides cost certainty. However, true long-term value depends on contractor performance and the Forest Service's oversight.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services › Services to Buildings and Dwellings › Landscaping Services

Product/Service Code: UTILITIES AND HOUSEKEEPING › HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: COMPETED UNDER SAP

Solicitation Procedures: SIMPLIFIED ACQUISITION

Solicitation ID: 12444223Q0023

Offers Received: 8

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 2637 DENMAN RD, KENNARD, TX, 75847

Business Categories: Category Business, Self-Certified Small Disadvantaged Business, Small Business, Sole Proprietorship, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $56,400

Exercised Options: $44,400

Current Obligation: $44,400

Actual Outlays: $25,200

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Timeline