RFP - Arborists Tree Maintenance 2025-26

Background
The City of Ceres is seeking qualified firms to provide tree care services as part of its Tree Maintenance and Removal Program. The City has approximately 14,616 street and park trees that make up its Community Forest. The goal of this contract is to ensure the maintenance of the Community Forest at a level that meets the expectations of residents, City Council, staff, and visitors. The selected contractor will collaborate closely with City staff to deliver appropriate care for the trees, adhering to American National Standards Institute (ANSI) guidelines and Best Management Practices.

Work Details
The contractor will provide a range of services including: tree trimming, GPS tree inventory, removal and replacement of trees as needed, watering, pruning, plant health care, arborist consulting services, and data entry. Specific tasks include:

1. Tree pruning (structural pruning, crown raising, crown cleaning) according to ANSI A300 Standards.
2. Tree removal and planting as required.
3. Emergency response for hazardous conditions.
4. Line clearance pruning for utility safety.
5. Implementation of a grid pruning program on a set cycle.
6. Conducting inspections for hazardous conditions with risk assessments performed by certified arborists.
7. Maintaining an online tree inventory management system that includes work order tracking and reporting capabilities.
8. Providing certified payroll records to the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR).

Period of Performance
The contract will commence on July 1, 2025, and continue for an initial period of five years until June 30, 2030. Annual cost adjustments may be requested based on changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Place of Performance
The services will be performed within the geographic boundaries of the City of Ceres.