§ 223.231 - Bidding methods.

The Contracting Officer or designated forest officer shall offer advertised sales of special forest products through sealed bid or sealed bid followed by oral auction. The method selected shall:

(a) Ensure open and fair competition;

(b) Ensure that the Federal Government receives minimum rates or appraised value, whichever is higher;

(c) Be consistent with the National Forest Management Act and other applicable federal laws;

(d) Require, as a prerequisite to participation in an oral auction, that a bidder submit a written sealed bid at least equal to the minimum acceptable bid price(s) specified in the prospectus. The Forest Service shall not accept a bid at oral auction that is less than the bidder's initial sealed bid; and

(e) Specify the use of sealed bids or a mix of bidding methods in the affected area where there is a reasonable belief that collusive and/or abnormal bidding practices may be occurring.