Millard Mountain Fence & Deck wins first federal contract

The Eagle Point contractor landed a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service gate repair job at Sheldon-Hart Mountain National Wildlife Refuge after responding to an invitation that initially included a certification requirement the company did not hold. The award, signed Sept. 25, marks Millard Mountain Fence & Deck’s first federal contract and a milestone for the small southern Oregon business.

Why it matters: - Millard Mountain Fence & Deck has crossed into federal contracting for the first time. - The award gives the Eagle Point company a foothold with the U.S. government and shows how a timely response can open doors for small trade contractors. - The contract also highlights that some requirements can be waived when a bidder engages directly with the buyer.

What happened: - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service awarded Millard Mountain Fence & Deck a gate repair job for the Sheldon-Hart Mountain National Wildlife Refuge. - The work will take place in Lakeview, Oregon. - The contract was signed Sept. 25, 2026. - Owner Jesse Millard received the request for quote directly from the agency. - Millard Mountain answered the invitation even though the company did not hold the required IDEA certification for gate operator installation. - The agency waived that requirement, and Millard Mountain submitted a proposal that was awarded immediately.

The details: - Millard Mountain Fence & Deck Co. is based in Eagle Point, Oregon. - The business registered to do business with the federal government in April 2026. - The company works with FEDCON, a Tampa-based firm that helps small businesses pursue government contracts. - Millard Mountain also works with FEDCON Lead Consultant Philip Mazzei. - Mazzei said answering the buyer is a key step for small businesses seeking government work. - Federal agencies buy trade services that include fencing, gates, grounds work and facility repair. - Millard Mountain Fence & Deck Co., also known as Millard Mountain Home Solutions, LLC, builds and repairs fences, gates and decks across southern Oregon.

Between the lines: - The award shows that a missing requirement does not always end a bid if the contractor responds honestly and quickly. - Small businesses may lose opportunities before a buyer can even consider them if they do not reply. - The contract illustrates how federal buyers can use trade contractors for maintenance and repair work in remote areas.

What's next: - Millard Mountain Fence & Deck now has a federal win to build on as it looks for additional government work. - The company’s relationship with FEDCON may help it pursue future local, state and federal opportunities. - The first award could make the firm more competitive for similar gate, fence and facility repair jobs.