REQUEST FOR QUOTATION PAGE OF PAGES

(THIS IS NOT AN ORDER) THIS RFQ IS IS NOT A SMALL BUSINESS SET- ASIDE 1 58

1. REQUEST NO. 2. DATE ISSUED 3. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQUEST NO. 4. CERT. FOR NAT.DEF. RATING

12363N26Q4105 4/10/2026 UNDER BDSA REG. 2

AND/OR DMS REG. 1

5a. ISSUED BY 6. DELIVER BY (Date) National Stewardship Team IRSC 1400 Independence Ave. SW

MS-1138

Washington DC 20250-1138; Email Return: cynthia.horwitz@usdsa.gov

See Contract Time

5b. FOR INFORMATION: 7. DELIVERY FOB DESTINATION NAME X OTHER (See Schedule)

9. DESTINATION

Cynthia Horwitz cynthia.horwitz@usda.gov a. NAME OF CONSIGNEE

8. TO: Ottawa National Forest

a. NAME b. COMPANY b. STREET ADDRESS

c. STREET ADDRESS c. CITY

d. CITY e. STATE f. ZIP CODE d. STATE e. ZIP CODE

10. PLEASE FURNISH QUOTATIONS

cynthia.horwitz@usda.gov by:

IMPORTANT: This is a request for information, and quotations furnished are not offers. If you are unable to quote, please so indicate on this form and return it to the address in BLOCK 5a.

This request does not commit the Government to pay any costs incurred in the preparation of the submission of this quotation or to contract for supplies or services. Supplies are of domestic origin unless otherwise indicated by quoter. Any representations and/or certifications attached to this Request for Quotations must be completed by the quoter.

11. SCHEDULE (Include applicable Federal, State and local taxes)

ITEM NO. SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

(a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) National Forest

Region 9 Timber Mark & Cruise BPA Call Order: 12363N26Q4105

Please place your price quotation in the Schedule of Items.

Furnishing Quotation: Complete Standard Form 18, the Schedule of Items, and provide a response to the other Evaluation Criteria identified herein. Return to the email address shown in Block 5a. Please place “Solicitation No. 12363N26Q4105 in email Subject.

a. 10 CALENDAR DAYS (%) b. 20 CALENDAR DAYS c. 30 CALENDAR DAYS d. CALENDAR DAYS

12. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT (%) (%) NUMBER PERCENTAGE

NOTE: Additional provisions and representations are X are not attached.

13. NAME AND ADDRESS OF QUOTER 14. SIGNATURE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO 15. DATE OF

a. NAME OF QUOTER SIGN QUOTATION QUOTATION

UEI No._____________

b. STREET ADDRESS 16. SIGNER

a. NAME (Type or print) b. TELEPHONE

c. COUNTY AREA CODE

d. CITY e. STATE f. ZIP CODE c. TITLE (Type or Print) NUMBER

NSN 7540-01-152-8084

Previous edition not usable

18-121 STANDARD FORM 18 (Rev. 6-95) Prescribed by GSA-FAR (48 CFR) 53.215-1(a)

X

Period of Performance: Date of Award through 11/30/2026

April 28,2026 at 11:00 am Central Time

Ottawa NF Pronghorn Mark and Cruise

12363N26Q4105 Ottawa NF Pronghorn Mark and Cruise Page 1 of 58 mailto:XXXXX.XXXXX@usdsa.gov

Schedule of Items

Item No. Unit Name Estimated

Quantity Unit of

Measure Unit Price Total

1. Pronghorn T.S. (Estimated Acres) – Contract Term Date: 11/30/2026

1-a Selection [PUs 01-06, 08-14 ] 466 acre $_________ $___________

1-b Clearcut [PU 07] 22 acre $_________ $_________

Total Price Quote: $____________

1. Description of Work: This marking and cruising contract is for an estimated 488 acres in Selection & Clearcut harvest units within a single Sale Area. This is being advertised as an estimated acres contract. The Sample Tree Cruising Method (STR) will be applied to all included payment units. The requirements outlined in the parent BPA award are specific to this Call, and supplemental to the requirements of the parent agreement. The specifications in this Call may supersede or replace contract specifications in the parent contract, when allowed by the parent contract agreement.

2. Project Location. Pronghorn is located within Gogebic County on the Ottawa National Forest. T46N R42W, Sections 16-17 & 20-21. The sale can be accessed from the following directions:

a. From Watersmeet, Travel west on US-2 for 21.5 miles. You will have reached the south end of the sale with the sale being on the north side of US-2.

3. Government-Furnished Property.

a. Tree marking paint

b. R9 Timber Sale Cruise Tally Card & Instructions Sheet

c. Marking guides that include: cruise plan, marking prescriptions, designation method, and resource maps.

4. BPA Call Specifications. Refer to Attachment 01: Pronghorn Estimated Acres Statement of Work and Attachment 03: Pronghorn Estimated Acres Section C for detailed specifications for each item.

a. Pronghorn Estimated Acres SOW – Cruise Design, Marking Instructions, Prescriptions, & Sale Map

b. Pronghorn Estimated Acres Section C

5. Performance Requirements Summary.

a. The Contractor shall furnish all labor, materials, equipment, tools, instruments, supplies, transportation, professional services, personnel, and supervision EXCEPT that which is designated in the Government Furnished Property clause to perform the Statement of Work/Specifications referenced in this contract.

Additionally, the contractor shall abide by the Ottawa National Forest's Timber Theft Prevention plan (TTPP)

– including, but not limited to, reconciling ALL paint (both empty & full paint cans) at the appropriate Forest Service office within 10 business days of issuance.

b. The Contractor shall GPS the location of ALL sample trees and provide a digital copy of these GPS locations on a payment unit-by-payment unit basis in a format that is useable by Forest Service personnel. GPS locations are required to be submitted to the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) when the cruise cards are submitted for the completed unit.

6. BPA Call Contract Time and Required Rate of Progress.

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a. Estimated Start Work Date: Upon Award of Contract.

b. Summer and/or Winter Project: Work may occur in either summer and/or winter months. Work completed in CTM units is subject to weather conditions and may be halted temporarily due to snow conditions if stump marks are not able to be adequately applied.

c. Contract Time: The Contractor shall complete work on this Call Order in accordance with the following…

i. Pronghorn Contract Due Date: 11/30/2026

7. Attachments.

a. Attachment 01: Pronghorn Estimated Acres Statement of Work (Cruise Design, Marking Instructions, & Silviculture Prescriptions)

b. Attachment 02: Pronghorn TS Estimated Acres RFCA Map

c. Attachment 03: Pronghorn Estimated Acres Section C

d. Attachment 04: Ottawa National Forest's Timber Theft Prevention plan (TTPP)

e. Attachment 05: Wage Determination

8. BPA Call Evaluation Criteria – Instructions to Quoters.

EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

FAR 52.252-1 Solicitation Provisions Incorporated by Reference (FEB 1998) This solicitation incorporates one or more solicitation provisions by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. The offeror is cautioned that the listed provisions may include blocks that must be completed by the offeror and submitted with its quotation or offer. In lieu of submitting the full text of those provisions, the offeror may identify the provision by paragraph identifier and provide the appropriate information with its quotation or offer. Also, the full text of a solicitation provision may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es):

https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far (FAR clauses begin with 52) Department of Agriculture Acquisition Regulation (AGAR) Clauses: https://www.acquisition.gov/agar (AGAR clauses begin with 452) Deviations to provisions may be viewed at: https://www.dm.usda.gov/procurement/policy/ FARClassDeviations.htm FAR 52.216-1 Type of Contract. (APR 1984) The Government contemplates award of a firm fixed price contract resulting from this solicitation.

Technical Package addressing the following evaluation factors and subfactors:

1. Past Performance. Determined by FedDataCheck and CPARS databases. Formal submission to address this factor has been completed under FAR 17.2 Options renewal and modification issuance. Source Selection Authority shall submit all Vendor Unique Entity Identifiers to FedDataCheck and CPARs to form a basis for responsibility and prior past performance. Each file shall be kept under vendor name at time of selection for an accurate and complete document of record.

2. Price. Price will be evaluated on the basis of reasonableness and total cost to the Government and shall be used to determine the comprehension and evaluation of the understanding of the work to be completed.

a. Quoters shall submit their quote(s) by submitting the following:

i. 1 copy of completed, signed SF-18 Request for Quotations form;

ii. 1 copy of completed Schedule of Items; and

iii. Quoter response(s) to technical (non-price) evaluation criteria.

b. Technical (non-price) evaluation criteria instructions. Quoters shall submit a response to the following non-price evaluation factor:

i. Contract Time and Schedule.

12363N26Q4105 Ottawa NF Pronghorn Mark and Cruise Page 3 of 58 https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/agar https://www.dm.usda.gov/procurement/policy/FARClassDeviations.htm

1. Quoters shall submit a proposal concerning how they intend to conform to the contract requirements concerning contract time and schedule.

2. Quoters may submit an alternate proposal that contains more specific and restrictive contract time requirements that the Contractor is willing to commit to as a condition of Call Order Award. For example, Quoters may consider proposing elements such as:

a. Specific start work date(s), completion dates, or performance timeframes for various phases of the work;

b. Specific minimum production rates that the Contractor is willing to commit to;

c. Proposed sequence of project execution; and/or

d. Other specific contract time commitments that the Contractor is willing to commit to.

9. Evaluation Criteria and Award Statement.

a. Technical / Non-Price Evaluation Factors.

i. Contract Time and Schedule. The Government will evaluate the Quoter’s proposal(s) concerning how they intend to conform to the contract time requirements of the Call Order. A Quoter response containing details that convincingly demonstrate to the Government that the Quoter will complete the Call Order within the minimum contract time requirements is highly desirable and will have a positive effect on the evaluation. Quoter proposals that propose completing all or part of the work faster than required by the Call Order as presented will be considered by the Government, and the ratings of such proposals will depend on the nature of the proposal and its anticipated benefit to the Government.

b. Price Quote. The Government will evaluate the Quoter’s proposed price(s) for price reasonableness.

c. Award Statement. Award will be made to the Quoter(s) whose response(s) represent the best value to the Government, technical and price factors considered. Evaluation factors other than cost or price, when combined, are approximately equal to cost or price in the award decision(s). The critical factor in making any price/technical trade-offs is not the spread between the technical ratings, but rather the significance of that difference. The significance of the difference in ratings will be determined on the basis of what that difference is and what it would cost the government to take advantage of it. Award may not necessarily be made for technical capabilities that would appear to exceed those needed for fulfilling the requirements of this contract. The Government reserves the right to make price/technical trade-offs that are in the best interest and advantageous to the Government.

Quotations should contain the quoter’s best technical and price terms. The Contracting Officer may reject any or all quotations. The Contracting Officer may issue a call order to other than the quoter with the lowest priced quotation. It is the Government’s intent to award without holding discussions. Technical Packages should be submitted initially on the most favorable terms, from a price and technical standpoint, which the quoter can submit to the Government. After the evaluation of quotations, the Contracting Officer may negotiate final terms with one or more quoters of the Government’s choice before issuing any order. The Contracting Officer will not negotiate with any quoters other than those of the Government’s choice and will not use the formal source selection procedures described in FAR 13. The government will evaluate information based on the following evaluation criteria.

The Government may reject any or all quotes if such action is determined to be in the best interest of the Government.

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SECTION C – DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATION/WORK STATEMENT

Scope of Contract This is an updated Section C document for the following timber sale:

- Pronghorn T.S. (Estimated Acres) – Payment Units 01-14; 488 acres

This timber sale marking project involves timber marking and volume estimation of approximately 488 acres in Northern Hardwoods & Aspen forest types, broken down by the following descriptions:

(1) HARDWOOD SINGLE-TREE SELECTION (uneven-age) (Marking & Cruising)

Payment Units 01-06, 08-14; approximately 466 acres

Uneven aged stands or even-aged stands with uneven-aged or even-aged objectives consisting of a mixture of Northern Hardwood types of various size classes. These stands contain both pulpwood and sawtimber Species/Product/Unit mixes. Marking objectives are to remove trees considered high risk, defective, poor form, or mature and to maintain or develop size class structure with optimum growing stock, per the specific marking instructions.

(2) CLEARCUT/REMOVAL CUT (Marking & Cruising - where all trees are counted)

Payment Units 07; approximately 22 acres

Generally, in a clearcut or removal cut, where all LIVE and/or DEAD trees that meet minimum specifications for size or species are designated for removal EXCEPT for trees marked as RESERVE TREES, LEAVE TREES, or trees within PROTECTED

AREAS.

In Payment Units where designated Species are too variable for Area Estimate Cruising methods, trees designated for removal will be marked with an intentional and discernable paint spot at eye level no smaller than 1 square inch to verify the tree was counted. Minimize over spray on non-designated species to avoid confusion. A stump mark is not generally required. Paint spots will face in generally the same direction. If any designated leave species (per marking instructions) are marked with a CTM designation, contractor will indicate this on tally card.

(3) SAMPLE TREE CRUISING METHOD

Applies to ALL Payment Units within the Pronghorn T.S.

The Sample Tree cruising method (STR) involves measuring a specified proportion (Sample Interval) of trees in the defined sub-population. The remaining trees included for removal are tallied as count trees. With this cruising method, every tree included for removal must be visited and marked.

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NOTE: USFS has not marked the Road R.O.W. units for this sale yet. This will be done by USFS at a later date. For units that have a road running through them, contractor should still mark/cruise trees up to the edge of the existing road clearing.

NOTE: Government furnished tree marking paint (TMP) will be issued, or returned, by appointment only at the WATERSMEET RANGER DISTRICT OFFICE. The primary point of contact for all TMP transactions will be the paint custodian. This person will be identified at the pre-work meeting. BLUE paint has been designated for this sale.

NOTE: USFS will mark any and all Leave Trees.

NOTE: **Contractor will supply all gap locations on a map and coordinate this with the Contracting Officer Representative. **

This sale can be accessed from the following directions:

From Watersmeet, Travel west on US-2 for 21.5 miles. You will have reached the south end of the sale with the sale being on the north side of US-2.

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OTTAWA NATIONAL FOREST

SILVICULTURAL PRESCRIPTION / MARKING GUIDES

Ranger District

Comp- Stand

MA LTA ELTP Habitat

Type Cover Type LSC Year of

Origin Size

Density SI BA

02 146-15 2.1 11 430B ATD 91 500 1979 6 76 165

STAND DESCRIPTION

This stand is dominant with aspen throughout, with an average BA of 165 ft2/ac and an average DBH of 8-10”. Throughout the stand, diameters can range from 6-12” generally. Black ash and maple are scattered throughout but usually consist of smaller diameters around the 6” class. Yellow birch, black cherry, and elm are also present but in limited capacity, again generally around the 6” diameter class. The understory/regeneration layer is heavily comprised of 1-3” maple, with some ash, balsam fir/spruce, yellow birch and black cherry.

DESIRED CONDITION

An even-aged aspen stand that is growing vigorously and free of competing vegetation. Long lived conifer species will be present but subordinate to the dominant aspen forest type. Accept mixed hardwood species in areas where aspen fails.

Maintain small, dense patches of sapling-sized balsam fir, spruce, and hemlock when practicable. Patches should not exceed 20 percent of the unit acreage.

SHORT AND LONG TERM OBJECTIVES

• Apply silvicultural treatments to regenerate and restore a healthy even-aged aspen/birch stands.

• Retain remnant long-lived conifer that are healthy and tolerate the changing environment.

• Accept that native pathogens occur in retained trees to provide unique habitat niches for cavity nesting birds, insects, and mammals.

• Attention is given to maintaining ecological processes and functions in and around riparian areas where they occur in the sale area.

• Acceptable stocking would achieve approximately 3200 seedlings per acre for native species.

REMARKS

There are scattered, small, poorly drained pockets, seeps, steep slopes, perched water tables, or shallow bedrock areas; do not designate any trees for removal in these areas.

100% of spruce and balsam volume should be considered due to signs of spruce decline. 15% of hardwood volume should be considered salvage due to overstocked conditions. 40% of aspen volume should be considered salvage due to age. All other contract groups follow collection rate letter dated 1/27/2025.

NEPA DECISION DOCUMENT: Grosbeck TIMBER SALE: Pronghorn PU: 7

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MARKING GUIDE:

Name of Treatment - 4117 (Clearcut w/ Reserves)

Residual BA/Ac – See below

Acres - See RFCA Map

The resultant stand appearance should have most acres having 0-10% canopy cover. This will ensure adequate sunlight to warm the ground to encourage suckering and provide a long-term free to grow condition for long term establishment of aspen.

• Don’t cut species such as hemlock, white pine, red pine, cedar, oak, birch (paper & yellow), black cherry, and elm species unless necessary to facilitate timber harvest operations. The oak and elm need to have adjacent trees retained to maintain the micro site surrounding the targeted reserve tree, this may include high risk aspen.

DESIGN CRITERIA AND MITIGATION MEASURES

Highlighted Design Criteria, see NEPA for all the criteria

• If any stick nests are found (A1) the wildlife biologist should be consulted.

• Reserve snags and den trees according to Forest Plan guidelines (p. 2-32); focus on retaining trees with features beneficial to the NLEB such as shaggy bark and cavities.

• If any archaeological sites are located during layout or implementation the Archaeologist should be consulted.

• Aspen stands with an objective to regenerate aspen with less than 30 ft2/acre of aspen basal area, harvesting will be restricted to the dormant season December 15 through March 15.

• Within harvest units with an objective to regenerate aspen (including aspen inclusions within non-clearcut units), harvesting operations and site preparation shall maintain small, dense patches of sapling-sized balsam fir, spruce, hemlock, or other conifer species when practicable.

POST HARVEST TREATMENTS

FACTS Code Name of Treatment Prescription 4493 Site Preparation for Naturals Remove all residual sub-merchantable material except some patches of low to the ground conifer and retain species noted above 4341 Stocking Survey Survey to ensure adequate regeneration of 3200 TPA on 40% 1/1000th ac plots. Evaluate diversity planting opportunities 4341 Stocking Survey Survey to ensure adequate regeneration of 3200 TPA on 40 % 1/1000th ac plots 4381 Certification for Naturals w

S/P Enter certification once regeneration goal is met

ACTIVITIES SUMMARY

Year Facts Activity Code Description 2033 4117 Clearcut harvest with reserves 2033 4493 Site preparation for natural regeneration – cut maple ash BF Spruce – Leave YB BC 2034 4341 1st year stocking survey 2036 4341 3rd year stocking survey 2036 4381 Certification for natural regeneration w/ SP

Prepared by: Eric Lane

Reviewed by: Rachel Tarpey

Reviewed by:

Approved by: Eric Lane

Title: Silviculture Forester

Title: TMA

Title:

Title: Certified Silviculturist

Date: 2/17/2026

Date: 02/26/2026

Date:

Date: 2/17/2026

NEPA DECISION DOCUMENT: Grosbeck TIMBER SALE: Pronghorn PU: 7

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SILVICULTURAL PRESCRIPTION / MARKING GUIDES

Ranger District

Comp- Stand

MA LTA ELTP Habitat

Type Cover Type LSC Year of

Origin Size

Density SI BA

02 146-12 2.1 11 429D ATD 20 500 - 9 54 155

02 146-08 2.1 11 430B ATD 89 500 1923 6 58 150

02 146-07 2.1 11 427C ATD 89 500 1928 6 68 145

02 146-11 2.1 11 427B ATD 85 500 1947 6 58 165

02 146-01 2.1 11 429D ATD 71 500 - 9 38 130

02 146-18 2.1 11 420C ATD 85 500 1941 6 53 155

02 146-19 2.1 11 420C ATD 85 500 1938 6 53 150

02 146-02 2.1 11 427C ATD 85 500 1920 6 58 170

02 146-04 2.1 11 427C ATD 89 500 1930 6 58 150

02 146-24 2.1 11 430C ATD 89 500 - 6 54 120

02 146-25 2.1 11 427C ATD 89 500 - 6 60 165

02 146-06 2.1 11 430C ATD 85 500 - 6 63 135

02 146-09 2.1 11 430D ATD 20 500 1981 6 66 150

02 146-26 2.1 11 430C ATD 89 500 - 6 54 195

NEPA DECISION DOCUMENT: Grosbeck TIMBER SALE: Pronghorn PU: 1-6, 8-14

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STAND DESCRIPTION

These are northern hardwood stands that are generally maple dominant throughout the overstory. Larger diameter hemlock are found throughout the overstory as well, and they will occur in groups and also singular with some areas consisting of higher densities. Other species throughout the overstory include yellow birch, ash, black cherry, white pine, and spruce. Within these stands, pockets of aspen (big tooth and quaking) exist as well, generally 2 acres or smaller and diameters from 8-18”. The mid story consists of a heavier maple component throughout, with fair amounts of yellow birch in areas. Ash and black cherry can also be found throughout the mid story but normally in limited capacity. Stocking within the understory varies greatly but generally consists of maple and ash seedlings/saplings. There are areas where higher stocking of advanced yellow birch regeneration exist but isn’t overly common. Balsam fir and spruce are scattered throughout the understory, occurring singularly or in pockets/clumps. Ironwood is present as well but currently isn’t a problem due to it’s low stocking. Overall the quality of these stands is poor, with exception to maybe 2-3 stands that have nicer quality stems. The average BA across these stands is right around 150 ft2/ac. Rock outcrops and drains are present and will need to be avoided.

Figure 1. Northern Hardwoods Stocking Chart (Leak et el 2014)

Represents the current average stocking conditions for the stands listed above.

DESIRED CONDITION

Uneven aged northern hardwood stands with the current species diversity maintained or increased. There will be minor amounts of clearcut inclusions, but selection can be applied to areas where the stocking is high and there is no need to regenerate a new age class. In areas where the objective is to regenerate aspen, maintain small, dense patches of sapling-sized balsam fir, spruce, and hemlock when practicable. Patches should not exceed 20 percent of the unit acreage.

SHORT AND LONG TERM OBJECTIVES

• Apply silvicultural treatments to regenerate and restore a healthy uneven-aged northern hardwood stand.

• Retain or increase species diversity by retaining species other than sugar maple.

• Maintain and protect ecological processes and functions in and around riparian areas where they occur within the sale area.

• Promote and maintain aspen inclusions to maintain the health and vigor of the aspen clones.

• Achieve a stocking level of 3,000 seedlings per acre of native species.

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REMARKS

There may be scattered, small, poorly drained pockets, seeps, steep slopes, perched water tables, or shallow bedrock areas;

do not designate any trees for removal in these areas.

100% of conifer volume should be considered salvage due to spruce decline and I&D issues within the stands. 60% of aspen volume should be considered salvage due to the aspens age class/quality. 15% of hardwood volume should be considered salvage due to overstocked stands and stressed trees. (in reference to collection rate letter dated 1/27/2025).

MARKING GUIDE:

Name of Treatment - 4151 (Single Tree Selection)

Residual BA/Ac – 95ft2/ac

Acres – See RFCA Map

MARKING GUIDE STANDARDS:

• GENERALLY RETAIN: white pine, red pine, elm, paper birch, oak and cedar unless needed for logging operations.

• GENERALLY FAVOR ALL SPECIES OTHER THAN MAPLE AND IRONWOOD. Favor less common species but not at the expense of the best quality trees. If most conditions are relatively equal, continue to improve the relative spacing by marking ironwood, red and sugar maple to meet desired BA.

• If advanced regeneration of yellow birch, black cherry, or red oak is present, perform a release to increase sunlight availability (this may include the removal of a large tree, or multiple smaller, poor-quality trees) This would count towards the 1 gap per 3 acres.

• Consider all aspen, spruce, balsam and ironwood high risk and remove all. Where groups of aspen exist, expand opening by one tree length (75’) to improve stand diversity. EXCEPT in areas where 400’ cold water trout buffer exists – DO NOT designate any aspen for removal in these areas (areas will be determined when layout is complete).

• Create medium size canopy gaps (100’x100’), measured bole to bole to encourage natural regeneration of shade intolerant/mid tolerant tree species (adjacent to healthy black cherry and yellow birch). Canopy gaps can be incorporated by the removal of large diameter and/or groups of smaller, poor-quality trees. Canopy gaps shouldn’t exceed 1 per 3 acres. Work with the COR when determining location of canopy gaps.

• Look to perform a crown release (ideally 3-4 sided) where red oak occur

• ONLY mark hemlock in areas where hemlock BA is higher (60 ft2/ac or higher) it would be acceptable to remove some of the poorer quality stems to further release the existing healthy hemlock – otherwise retain spp

• Resultant stand should have similar diameter distribution to the original stand with stocking throughout all diameter classes, generally looking to reduce initial BA by 1/3.

• Drop zones will be necessary when removing large diameter trees.

• A few acre piece of red pine may be included within PU 4, follow order of removal when marking by removing high risk trees (defective, stressed, suppressed stems) and reduce initial BA by roughly 1/3.

MARK BY ORDER OF REMOVAL

1. HIGH RISK: Remove trees of any size class that are diseased/structurally damaged that will die within the next 15 years that still contain merchantable products (unless needed for other resource value ie. cavity tree). Identify the best crop trees in the stand and provide a release by marking one or two main competing trees of lesser quality. If BA still higher than desired…

2. DENSITY/SPACING: Improve stand quality and growing space by marking fair – marginal quality trees (mostly 6-10” DBH class). Identify trees that are:

• Unacceptable Growing Stock: Trees that are likely to survive for a decade but have structural/growth/disease issues, exhibit signs of marginal improvement or significant volume loss, signs of suppression and are less likely to develop sawlog potential. If BA still higher than desired...

Acceptable Growing Stock: Saw log potential trees but possess slight quality issues to form, structure, and soundness (sweep, low branching, old branch stubs, epicormic sprouting). This also includes trees at biological maturity (black cherry > 15”, sugar maple and yellow birch > 19”, basswood > 21”)

NEPA DECISION DOCUMENT: Grosbeck TIMBER SALE: Pronghorn PU: 1-6, 8-14

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DESIGN CRITERIA AND MITIGATION MEASURES

Highlighted Design Criteria, see NEPA for all of the criteria

• Cull trees should be left for wildlife, do not remove trees with little or no value unless they pose a safety hazard. If cull trees need to be marked the silviculturist should be notified to look at the risk.

• If any stick nests are found the wildlife biologist should be consulted.

• Reserve snags and den trees according to Forest Plan guidelines (p. 2-32); focus on retaining trees with features beneficial to the NLEB such as shaggy bark and cavities.

• If any archaeological sites are located during layout or implementation the Archaeologist should be consulted.

• Within all harvest units except aspen clearcuts, favor hemlock, white pine, cedar, elm, and oak by retaining and crown releasing these species as directed in the stands’ silviculture prescription. These species may be cut to facilitate harvest operations where necessary, or to improve growing space and vigor among these same species that may occur within inclusions. The objective for retaining these species is to improve and/or maintain structural and compositional diversity (Forest Plan, p. 2-2).

POST HARVEST TREATMENTS

FACTS Code Name of Treatment Prescription 4341 Stocking survey 1st year stocking survey to ensure adequate regeneration of 3000 TPA on 70% of plots – determine tree weed/release timing

4341 Stocking survey 3rd year stocking survey to ensure adequate regeneration of 3000 TPA on 70% of plots – determine tree weed/release timing

4382 Certification of natural regeneration Enter certification once regeneration goal is met

ACTIVITIES SUMMARY

Year Facts Activity Code Description 2033 4151 Single tree selection harvest 2034 4341 1st year stocking survey 2036 4341 3rd year stocking survey 2036 4382 Certification for natural regeneration

Prepared by: Eric Lane

Reviewed by: Rachel Tarpey

Reviewed by:

Approved by: Eric Lane

Title: Silviculture Forester

Title: TMA

Title:

Title: Certified Silviculturist

Date: 2/17/2026

Date: 02/26/2026

Date:

Date: 2/17/2026

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Sale Number: 21032 Estimated Sale Value: $100,000 Estimated CV Ranges: 18-47% Maximum Sampling Error: 12% Based on Cruise Data: Pre-Cruise Plots Cruise Methods: Sample Tree (STR) [Reference attached Minimum Tree and Piece Utilization Standards, dated 11/02/2015] [Total Sale Acres = 489 Acres including 1 acre ROW)]

Pronghorn Payment Unit & Acreage Summary Table

P.U. # Estimated Acres

Final Acres

Strata Marking Method Species

P.U. 01 34 1 CTM All Species P.U. 02 36 1 CTM All Species P.U. 03 33 1 CTM All Species P.U. 04 40 1 CTM All Species P.U. 05 15 1 CTM All Species P.U. 06 34 1 CTM All Species P.U. 07 22 1 DxSpd* 100% Count P.U. 08 69 1 CTM All Species P.U. 09 10 1 CTM All Species P.U. 10 24 1 CTM All Species P.U. 11 51 1 CTM All Species P.U. 12 18 1 CTM All Species P.U. 13 84 1 CTM All Species P.U. 14 18 1 CTM All Species P.U. 15 R.O.W

(01) #dummy#

1 CTM (USFS) All Species

* In PU 07, all Oak, Elm, Cedar, Hemlock, White Pine, Red Pine, Black Cherry, Paper Birch, Yellow Birch and ANY orange-banded trees will be retained.

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STRATA 1: (CTM)

Single-Tree Selection Payment Units: 01-06, 08-14 (466 Acres).

100% Count Clearcut Payment Units: 07 (22 Acres).

Payment Unit 15 (R.O.W.) (1 acre) will be marked and cruised by USFS.

Sample Group

Species/Product (Unit) DBH Range Sample Interval

HS Small Hardwood/Pulpwood (02) 5.0”-10.99” 1:500

HL Large Hardwood/Pulpwood (02) 11.0”+ 1:75 SS Small Sugar Maple/Sawtimber (01) 11.0”-14.99” 1:30 SL Large Sugar Maple/Sawtimber (01) 15.0”+ 1:15 OS Small Other Hardwood/Sawtimber (01)

[includes Red Maple, Basswood, Black Cherry, Yellow Birch, White Birch, & Red Oak]

11.0”-14.99” 1:30

OL Large Other Hardwood/Sawtimber (01) [includes Red Maple, Basswood, Black Cherry, Yellow Birch, White Birch, & Red Oak]

15.0”+ 1:15

FP Ash/Pulpwood (02) [includes Black Ash & White Ash]

5.0”+ 1:50

FW Ash/Sawtimber (01) [includes Black Ash & White Ash]

11.0”+ 1:25

AS Small Aspen/Pulpwood (02) 5.0”-11.99” 1:100 AL Large Aspen/Pulpwood (02) 12.0”+ 1:50 CS Small Mixed Conifer/Pulpwood (02)

[includes Balsam Fir, Tamarack, Cedar, Hemlock, White Pine, Scots Pine, White Spruce, Black Spruce, & Norway Spruce]

5.0”-14.99” 1:100

CL Large Mixed Conifer/Pulpwood (02) [includes Balsam Fir, Tamarack, Cedar, Hemlock, Scots Pine, White Spruce, Black Spruce, & Norway Spruce]

15.0”+ 1:25

PP Pine/Pulpwood (02) [includes Red Pine & Jack Pine]

5.0”+ 1:1

PW Pine/Sawtimber (01) [includes Red Pine & White Pine]

9.0”+ 1:1

Note: Cruise all Aspen, Balsam Fir, Spruce, & Jack Pine as pulpwood.

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Marking Instructions

Hardwood Selection/Sample Tree Cruising (STR):

Payment Units: 01-06, 08-14 (466 Acres).

ALL merchantable trees to be removed from these Payment Units require two paint marks at DBH on opposite sides of the tree AND a corresponding stump mark (see specific Marking Instructions for these Payment Units). Cruise marked trees using the Sample Groups and Sample Intervals above.

A random start should be used for each sample group at the start of marking in each payment unit. Select a random interval that is less than the required sample interval for the first tally in each sample group, thereafter, sample at the specified sample interval.

Maintain an accurate tree count by payment unit for each sample group. Original field records used for tracking tree counts must be with the tally cards or data recorder sheets when each unit is completed. Do not recopy field notes of tree counts or tally cards.

Clearcut/Sample Tree Cruising (STR, 100% Count): Payment Unit: 07 (22 Acres).

ALL merchantable trees within this Payment Unit are designated for removal EXCEPT Oak, Elm, Cedar, Hemlock, Red Pine, & White Pine, Paper Birch, Yellow Birch, Black Cherry, (which are designated retain tree species) AND Leave Trees (LTs). Merchantable trees (except Oak, Elm, Cedar, Hemlock, Red Pine, White Pine, Black Cherry, Birch (Paper & Yellow) to be removed from this Payment Unit only require a paint mark at DBH to verify the tree has been counted; a stump mark is not required. Designated retain species (Oak, Elm, Cedar, Hemlock, Red Pine, White Pine, Black Cherry, & Birch (Yellow & Paper)) require a paint mark at DBH AND at the stump only when chosen for removal (operability, disease/insect, or other conditions that may be described in the Marking Guides). Any designated retain trees marked with Cut Tree designation will be documented. Any and all LTs will be marked by USFS. LTs are to be marked with a single orange band at DBH and a corresponding orange stump mark.

As stated in the “REMARKS” and “MARKING GUIDE” section, no lone Elm or Oak are to be left. LTs will need to be marked around the lone oak or elm, if there is not a designated retain species adjacent to the elm/oak. LTs may also include healthy groups of hardwoods as stated in the Marking Guides. All banded LTs are to be counted and recorded by species and by payment unit during the cruise, preferably with provided Leave Tree Form and turned in with Tally Cards for each payment unit (see specific Marking Instructions for all Payment Units). Cruise marked trees using the Sample Groups and Sample Intervals above.

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Right-of-Way Clearing (USFS mark)/Sample Tree Cruising (STR): Payment Unit 15 (1 acre)

ALL merchantable trees to be removed from this Payment Unit require paint marks at DBH on opposite sides of the tree AND a corresponding stump mark. Cruise marked trees using the Sample Groups and Sample Intervals above.

NOTE: Refer to Marking Guides for specific marking instructions for this Payment Unit.

* USFS personnel will be marking Payment Unit 15 - road R.O.W. at a later date.

NOTE: Government furnished tree marking paint (TMP) will be issued or returned by appointment only, at the WATERSMEET RANGER DISTRICT OFFICE. The primary point of contact for all TMP transactions will be the paint custodian. This person will be identified at the pre-work meeting. BLUE paint has been designated for this sale.

NOTE: Provide a map of all canopy gaps created in CTM Payment Units. Coordinate with the Contracting Officer’s Representative to coordinate the location and map of gaps.

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Cruise Design Prepared by: Hayley Jardeen Forestry Technician Date: 02/19/2026 Final Acres Updated by: Hayley Jardeen, Forestry Technician Date: 02/19/2026

Cruise Design Reviewed by: Brandon Pertile, Silviculture Technician Date: 02/19/2026 Cruise Design Reviewed & Updated by: Hayley Jardeen, Forestry Technician Date: 02/19/2026

Marking Contract Narrative by: Date:

Cruise Design & Marking Instructions Approved by: Rachel Tarpey Date:02/26/2026

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MINIMUM TREE AND PIECE UTILIZATION STANDARDS (11/02/2015 revision)

Minimum Tree Specifications

Minimum Piece Specifications

SPECIES PRODUCT DBH (inches) Length (feet)

DIB

(inches)

Minimum Net Scale in % of Gross

Hardwoods (except aspen)

Sawlogs 11.0 8 9.6-11.5 95% 1/

Hardwoods Sawlogs 11.0 8 11.6+ 50% 1/ Softwood Sawlogs 9.0 8 7.6 40 All Species Pulpwood 5.0 8 4.0 70 and reasonably straight 2/

1/ In Timber Sale Contracts, all hardwood sawlogs will use 50% minimum net scale in gross %, due to limitations in TIM. Cruising will use 95% minimum net scale for small diameter logs (9.6 – 11.5 DIB).

2/ Seventy percent applies to rot, voids, and char. Mechanical type defects such as sweep, crook, spider heart, and ring shake will not be considered.

Reasonably straight - When the true line of a minimum length piece does not deviate more than ½ the inside diameter of the small and plus two inches from a straight line drawn between the centers of the ends of a piece.

The maximum deflection allowed is what will fit in a 20-inch cylinder.

A minimum tree must include at least one piece that meets minimum specifications.

** Product heights are now measured to the nearest foot. All heights are measured in feet from the ground on the high side of the stump.

1. Conifers – measure total height (to the tip) in feet and the cruise program will calculate the 4” cut-off.

2. Hardwoods (includes Aspen) – measure the height in feet to the 4” top.

3. Sawtimber – cut-off point or “stoppers” will follow our regular practices. Measure sawtimber height in feet. Secondary product height will be measured as described in item 1 or 2 depending on the species.

4. Default dib’s are already built into the equations;

pulpwood = 4.0” sawtimber = 9.6” (hardwood) = 7.6” (mixed conifers, pine)

5. On trees with a broken, dead, or deformed top, record the height to the point where the

4” top or the tip would have been if the tree were still growing normally, then record defect to account for the missing volume.

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Nel s on

C re e k

O ld

U S

FS

R oa d

O ld

U S

US Highway 2

N e ls o n

Cr eek

S late River

US Highway 2 S la te R iv e r

U S H ighw ay

1 2

02159

0 215924

2 15930

FD

R

12 303

02159

FDR7 44

0215928

0212313

0215935

0215924

FDR7273

FD

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FD

R

0215919

14611

0215925

FDR7 413

0214501

0214605

0215934

02 15 918

0216018

FD

R72

-E

0214602

FDR7273

7416-B

0214507

0216041

FDR7412

0215920

0214603

0214609

FDR7321

0215951

FD

R

0215926

FD

R

0214607

FDR7270

FD

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0214501

FDR7253

0215930

0214601

FDR7280- E

FDR7248-A

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FDR7324

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FDR7320-D

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US-2

Pronghorn T.S. #21032 Payment Unit & Vicinity Map - Est. Acres

0 0.5 10.25 Miles

Pronghorn Est.

PUs

New Construction

Decommission

No Maintenance

Reconstruction

NON-FS

Monumented Corner

S_USA.Section

ESTIMATED ACRES

01 - 34 CTM

02 - 36 CTM

03 - 33 CTM

04 - 40 CTM

05 - 15 CTM

06 - 34 CTM

07 - 22 C.C

08 - 69 CTM

09 - 10 CTM

10 - 24 CTM

11 - 51 CTM

12 - 18 CTM

13 - 84 CTM

14 - 18 CTM

15 - 1 (R.O.W/USFS)

SALE ACRES

(01-15) = 489 ac.

CONTRACT ACRES

(01-14) = 488 ac. Scale: 1:15,840

T46N R42W

White City

Pelt on R ive r

G og-Cc Road

Jenna Manwiller 02/18/2026

Vicinity Map (Not to scale)

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TIMBER THEFT PREVENTION PLAN

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

INTRODUCTION

OBJECTIVES

OPERERATING PROCEDURES

1. Organization and Staffing

2. Cross-Training and Coordination

3. Timber Sale Preparation

4. Timber Sale Administration

5. Regulatory Inspections

6. Documentation

7. TM—LEI Timber Theft Protocol

LAW ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS

1. General

2. Crime Scene Protection

3. Issuance of Violation Notices

SUSPENSION AND DEBARMENT

1. Mandatory Referral

2. Exception to Mandatory Referral

3. Case Documentation and Submission

PREVENTION

1. Theft Prevention Plots

2. Sale Area Layout

3. Tracer Paint Security

4. Theft Prevention Outside Sale Area

ACCOUNTABILITY

Responsibility

Appendix

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INTRODUCTION

The intent of the Ottawa National Forest (ONF) Timber Theft Prevention Plan (TTPP) is to improve and standardize theft prevention and detection measures by gaining consistency at the Forest level. All employees of the Forest Service share in the responsibility for the prevention, detection, reporting, and investigation of timber theft.

This plan is intended to promote effective coordination and communication with Timber Management

(TM), Law Enforcement & Investigations (LEI) and other staff groups when addressing violations of laws and regulations, noncompliance with timber sale contract provisions resulting in resource degradation, special forest products program administration, and unlawful cutting or removal of timber on adjacent public and private lands within National Forest boundaries.

The TTPP will also address the prompt detection, apprehension and prosecution of individuals entering the National Forest for the purpose of stealing timber or other forest products. Timber theft prevention on the ONF is a joint effort between TM and LEI. Involvement of State and Local law enforcement agencies and the public is welcomed to assist in observation and reporting of all unlawful activity affecting the National Forest System.

All direction in the R9 TTPP is incorporated by reference and shall be adhered to on the ONF. The

ONF TTPP will be reviewed annually and amended as needed to comply with any new or revised regulations or agency policies, including the R9 TTPP.

OBJECTIVES

This plan was developed to deter or prevent timber theft and improve our ability to detect, apprehend, and prosecute violators when theft does occur. The objectives of this plan are to:

Provide the skills and coordination necessary to prevent timber theft and prosecute timber theft when it does occur.

Promote and develop positive employee perceptions and attitudes regarding law enforcement and regulatory responsibilities in order to enhance and maintain timber and forest products accountability.

Develop and use processes and procedures that will reduce vulnerability and increase our ability to identify and detect product loss and theft.

Strengthen coordination between timber management and law enforcement so legal action can be aggressively and effectively pursued when theft does occur.

Promote and encourage coordination between National Forests for the prevention and detection of collusive bidding and market manipulation.

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OPERATING PROCEDURES & ACTIONS

1. Organization and Staffing

As Forest Service budgets continue to be influenced by other national priorities; it is critical that the agency continue to explore ways to be more efficient in both TM and LEI program areas. Every opportunity to develop and maintain efficiencies and will be explored. Timber sale operations cannot be managed using shortcuts or deviations from existing policies or prescribed processes, nor can we accomplish desired objectives with untrained or understaffed organizations. It is recognized that we cannot sacrifice standards of professionalism or accountability to achieve the desired efficiency.

The Forest Supervisor and Patrol Captain will take the necessary steps to ensure qualified personnel are in place to effectively accomplish timber management and regulatory compliance program objectives. Training and certification standards for all TM and LEI personnel will meet the intent of

Forest Service Manual and Forest Service Handbook directives. The Forest Supervisor and Patrol

Captain will also insure that Forest Protection Officers (FPO) are trained and available for compliance and accountability work with Special Forest Product permits at appropriate times of the year.

The Forest will be committed to providing ground floor training and other opportunities that will provide a replacement workforce as key personnel leave the timber management program. When an individual has been selected for a future position as a timber sale administration team member, completion of the formal training required will be scheduled and completed within two years.

Experience plus training will lead to certification within four years.

A timber sale administration team consisting of the following positions will be established for each timber sale:

Contracting Officer

Forest Service Representative

Sale Administrator

Harvest Inspector (as needed)

Engineering Representative

Construction Inspector (as needed)

Contracting Officer’s Representative or Service Work Inspector (Stewardship Contracts)

In addition to the timber sale administration team, the Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) assigned to that

Ranger District or other administrative unit will serve as an ad hoc team member and will receive timely notification of sale activity and pre-work meeting dates. It is recommended that the district TM financial assistant provide the LEO with a copy of the timber sale map and prospectus upon each contract award. The LEO and Sale Administrator will serve as primary liaison between TM and LEI.

The Forest Contracting Officer will maintain training and certification records for all members of the timber sale administration team. The Forest Check Cruiser will maintain training and certification records for all certified timber cruisers and scalers. The Patrol Captain will maintain all training and certification records for LEI personnel including all LEO’s and FPO’s. The Forest Engineer will maintain all training and certification records for civil engineering personnel. Training records will include all refresher and recertification requirements and satisfactory accomplishment.

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2. Cross-Training and Coordination

Law Enforcement will be represented on all formal ONF timber sale reviews/audits. They will focus on all aspects of timber theft prevention, report findings and recommend actions.

Both LEI and TM personnel shall receive ongoing cross-training and updates to familiarize each with timber sale and forest products administration and regulatory compliance and law enforcement. This is intended to provide a basis of understanding for each to assist the other in a successful resolution of timber and forest products violations.

TM—LEI cross-training and coordination meetings will be held a minimum of every two years. These meetings will require at least four hours of timber theft prevention training as well as an evaluation of the integration between TM and LEI personnel. All LEI personnel and timber sale administration team members assigned to the ONF will be required to attend. Affected Line Officers and other TM personnel are encouraged to attend. LE&I personnel shall attend at least one quarterly Ottawa Timber

Sale Administration Team meeting per year.

It is strongly recommended that Timber Sale Administrators and Harvest Inspectors be trained and certified as Forest Protection Officers.

3. Timber Sale Preparation

Standards of timber sale preparation shall be consistent with all regulations, Forest Service Manual and

Forest Service Handbook policy directives. All training and certification standards for timber measurement and timber measurement personnel will be met without exception.

Supplemental timber sale preparation standards for the ONF are as follows:

Timber Cruising

All contract markers will be certified by a Forest Check Cruiser before they are allowed to cruise

National Forest timber. They will meet the same standards and frequency of certification as Forest

Service personnel.

Only tracer paint with a tracer element registered to the USDA shall be used for timber sale cruising applications.

When conducting a sample tree cruise in units where trees are to be harvested by designation; all designated trees will have a spot of paint put on them to insure accurate tree counts between sample trees (no stump marks).

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Paint Application

The ONF will…