Forest Products Interests and Contract Preferences

This Request For Information (RFI) is intended solely for information gathering. Responses are voluntary and will not be used to evaluate or prequalify respondents for any future procurement actions or timber sales.This RFI is for market research only. It does not constitute a solicitation, does not commit the Government to issue a future solicitation, and does not obligate the Government to award any contract or timber sale. The U.S. Forest Service is issuing this RFI to gather market insights from timber purchasers, forest product companies, wood processors, biomass users, and other forest-related businesses operating in or near Colorado. The information provided will help the Forest Service evaluate current and emerging market needs, assess interest in different contract structures, and plan future offerings that support forest health, economic development, and long-term stewardship. Scope: National Forests in Colorado This RFI applies to potential timber offerings and contract opportunities across the following National Forests located in the State of Colorado: • Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests • Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre & Gunnison National Forests (GMUG) • Pike & San Isabel National Forests • Rio Grande National Forest • San Juan National Forest • White River National Forest • Routt National Forest Requested Information Respondents are encouraged to provide detailed information in the following areas: Forest Products of Interest • Species and product types you are interested in purchasing (e.g., sawtimber, pulpwood, biomass, posts and poles, specialty products). • Desired product specifications (diameter, length, quality, form, volume per unit). • Anticipated future product needs or market trends affecting your operations in Colorado. Desired Quantities • Approximate annual volume needs by product type. • Minimum and maximum volume thresholds. • Variability or flexibility in volume depending on market conditions. Contract Length and Structure • Preferred contract durations (short-term, multi-year, long-term, fixed-term). • Operational or business advantages supporting longer-term contracts on National Forest lands. • Volume levels or conditions that justify long-term commitments. Short-Term vs. Long-Term Needs • Immediate forest product needs (1–3 years). • Longer-term projections (3–10 years). • Expected changes in production capacity, mill capabilities, product mix, or equipment. Service Contracts vs. Traditional Timber Sale Contracts • Level of interest in service contracts (e.g., thinning-by-the-acre, biomass removal, stewardship work). • Interest in contracts combining service work with product removal (e.g., IRSC, IRTC). • Operational, financial, or administrative considerations affecting contract preference. • Incentives or conditions that would increase participation in service contracts. Operational Considerations • Planned investments in facilities, equipment, or workforce dependent on predictable forest product availability. • Preferred geographic areas or specific National Forests where your business can operate most efficiently. • Seasonal constraints, logistical challenges, haul route considerations, or mill delivery requirements. Additional Feedback • Suggestions for strengthening forest product markets in Colorado. • Recommended improvements to contract flexibility, timelines, or administrative processes. • Any other information to help the Forest Service better align timber offerings with industry needs. Please include the following information in your response: Company name Primary business contact Location of operations Summary of current processing capabilities Responses to requested information Responses are welcomed through December 1, 2026, Please submit responses electronically to the points of contact listed below.