Opportunity
My Florida Marketplace #42232
Helicopter Services for Prescribed Burns, Fire Suppression, and Aerial Observation
Posted
September 14, 2026
Respond By
September 29, 2026
Identifier
42232
NAICS
488190, 561499
This opportunity from the St. Johns River Water Management District seeks qualified contractors to provide helicopter services for prescribed burns, wildfire response, and aerial observation across its managed lands. - Government Buyer: - St. Johns River Water Management District (Palatka, FL) - OEMs and Vendors Mentioned: - PREMO MK III (plastic sphere dispenser) - SEI Industries Ltd. Red Dragon (ignition machine) - Bambi Bucket (aerial water delivery system) - Products/Services Requested: - Helicopter services for aerial ignition (using PREMO MK III or SEI Red Dragon machines) - Helitorch aerial ignition operations - Fire suppression with aerial water-delivery systems (e.g., Bambi Bucket) - Aerial observation and reconnaissance - Product Line Items: - Helicopter services for prescribed burns and/or aerial observation - Includes aerial ignition, helitorch, fire suppression, and reconnaissance - Equipment: PREMO MK III, SEI Red Dragon, Bambi Bucket - Service Line Items: - Plastic-sphere-dispenser aerial ignition helicopter service - Helitorch aerial ignition helicopter service - Fire suppression helicopter service with aerial water-delivery system - Aerial observation/reconnaissance helicopter service - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Contractors must provide all rotorcraft, pilots, and equipment - FAA certifications required for aircraft and pilots (Parts 133, 135, 137) - Pilots must have minimum 1,500 Pilot-in-Command hours and specific mission experience - Rapid mobilization within 24 hours for work orders - Equipment must meet NFPA standards and be capable of low-level flight, VHF radio communication, and internal communications - District staff may participate as crew during observation missions - Estimated Contract Value: - $525,000 total budget - All operations must comply with federal, state, and local regulations.
Description
The St. Johns River Water Management District is seeking qualified contractors to provide a variety of helicopter services including aerial ignition, helitorch operations, fire suppression support, and aerial reconnaissance in support of prescribed fire management and wildfire response. Contractors must provide all rotorcraft and pilots, submit FAA certificates and pilot proficiency checks, and comply with all applicable regulations. The contract will be effective through September 30, 2029, with a budget of $525,000. Submittals must address all elements of the Scope of Work and comply with the solicitation's terms and conditions.