Description
The Florida Forest Service, under the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, is inviting qualified beef producers to lease 616 acres of the Charles H. Bronson State Forest (Joshua Creek West) for a five‑year cattle grazing operation, with an optional five‑year renewal. The lease includes a mandatory site visit, detailed fencing repair/replacement requirements, and a fixed‑price per animal unit bid. Bidders must demonstrate recent experience managing at least 700 acres, a ten‑year track record, BMP certification, and membership in the Florida Cattlemen’s Association. The contract will be awarded to the highest‑scoring bidder based on experience, a five‑year stewardship plan, and bid price.
• Lease area: 616 acres (various habitat types) with 75 allowable animal units
• Contract term: 5 years + optional 5‑year renewal
• Mandatory site visit: 11 Nov 2026 (attendance required)
• Bid submission deadline: 25 Nov 2026, 5 PM EST (mail or PDF email)
• Evaluation criteria: Business experience (50 pts), 5‑year stewardship plan (100 pts), bid price (50 pts)
• Required qualifications: 700‑acre beef operation experience, 10‑year track record, BMP certification, Cattlemen’s Association membership
• Payment: Fixed price per animal unit (annual), with possible cost‑share for fence repairs