Walker County, located in Southeast Texas, spans approximately 801 square miles and has a population of approximately 76,000 residents (2020 U.S. Census). The terrain includes rolling hills and open prairies within the Piney Woods vegetation zone, with about 70% of the county covered in forests of loblolly, shortleaf, and longleaf pine, alongside various hardwoods. The area rests at the extreme western end of the Coastal Plain region, and elevation in the county ranges from 140 to 404 feet above sea level. Walker County is drained by numerous creeks and major waterways include the Trinity River to the north and the San Jacinto River to the south. Walker County, Texas—including the county seat of Huntsville (population 45,941, 2020 U.S. Census), as well as the cities of New Waverly and Riverside—has historically experienced numerous federally declared disasters, including major storms and flooding events. These incidents have produced substantial volumes of disastergenerated debris and have underscored the importance of comprehensive pre-disaster planning for recovery and debris operations. Debris Removal activities under this contract may be required across the entirety of Walker County, including incorporated cities, unincorporated communities, and rural areas. In anticipation of future events, Walker County has developed a FEMA-compliant Debris Management Plan that outlines operational strategies for debris clearance, removal, and disposal following a major disaster. This plan includes detailed information on anticipated debris types and volumes, debris classification, local hauling and disposal capacities, and potential locations for Temporary Debris Management Sites (TDMS). This IFB does not cover hazardous materials or household putrescible garbage. A copy of the current Debris Management Plan is included as Attachment I, to this solicitation and shall serve as a general operational framework for the selected Contractor. Walker County’s disaster recovery planning approach includes the strategic pre-positioning of contracts, resources, and operational protocols to support an efficient, coordinated debris management response. This includes timely removal of eligible debris from public property and public rights-of-way using a combination of County and Contractor resources. Contractors are expected to adhere to all operational guidance within the Debris Management Plan, and to ensure compliance with FEMA eligibility, documentation, environmental, and safety requirements throughout the duration of the project.
