Bolar Flat Marina Prospectus for Special Uses_Update_04_11_2025.pdf

USDA Forest Service FS-2700-34 (REV-02/2017) OMB No. 0596-0082

Previous edition obsolete

Use Code 141

Prospectus for

Operation and Maintenance of Bolar Flat Marina Day Use Facilities

George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Forest Service

February 2025

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

Table of Contents

I. Business Opportunity

A. Introduction B. Area Description C. Description of Developed Recreation Sites and Facilities D. Government-Furnished Property E. Government-Furnished Supplies F. Utilities and Waste Management

II. Forest Service Concession Program and Policies

A. Recreation.gov B. Pass Discounts C. Camp Stamps D. Site Closure E. Reserved Administrative Use F. Applicable Forest Orders G. Fee Tickets and Compilation of Use and Revenue Data H. Customer Service Comment Cards I. Performance Evaluations J. Accessibility K. Capacities of Day Use Areas L. Fees Charged to the Public M. Law Enforcement N. Other Pertinent Information O. Other Pertinent Information

III. Special Use Permit

A. Permit Term B. Permit Holder Responsibilities C. Granger-Thye Fee Offset Agreement D. Insurance

IV. Application

A. Instructions for Submitting Applications B. General Terms, Qualifications, and Reservations C. Application Package Requirements D. Evaluation of Applications

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

V. Post-Selection Requirements

Appendices

Appendix 1: Vicinity and Area Maps Appendix 2: Maps of Developed Recreation Sites Appendix 3: Inventory of Government-Furnished Property Appendix 4: Applicable Forest Orders Appendix 5: Sample Use Report Appendix 6: Sample Customer Service Comment Card Appendix 7: Standard Performance Evaluation Form Appendix 8: FSM 2342.1, Exhibit 01, Law Enforcement at Concession

Campgrounds Appendix 9: Sample Annual Operating Plan Appendix 10: Not Applicable Appendix 11: FS-2700-4h, Appendix B, Granger-Thye Fee Offset Agreement Appendix 12: Potential Government Maintenance, Reconditioning, Renovation, and Improvement Projects Appendix 13: Indirect Cost Reimbursement Letter Appendix 14: FS-2700-4h, Appendix G, Granger-Thye Fee Offset Certification Appendix 15: Not Applicable Appendix 16: Sample Business Plan Appendix 17: FS-6500-24, Financial Statement Appendix 18: FS-6500-25, Request for Verification

VI. Optional Appendices

Appendix 19: National Quality Standards for Recreation Site Management

VII. Pertinent Materials (Available Upon Request)

“Cleaning Recreation Sites” (USDA-Forest Service) “In Depth Design and Maintenance Manual for Vault Toilets” (USDA-Forest Service) Spill Prevention, Containment and Countermeasures Plan Template (SPCC Plan)

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

I. Business Opportunity

The Bolar Flat Marina is part of the Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, a complex of campgrounds, picnic areas, a swimming beach, and the marina. The Bolar Flat Marina has been operated under a special use permit since the facility first opened in approximately 1991, while the rest of the complex was historically operated by the Forest Service (FS).

In 2012 and 2017, the Bolar Mountain Recreation Area and the Bolar Flat Marina operated as a single concession special use permit. The most recent permit ended in October 2020. The complex including the marina has been operated by the FS since that time, but with reduced services to include the boat ramp and courtesy dock, picnic area, and fishing pier.

This offering entails a variety of potential opportunities for the permit holder and services for visitors such as rental of boat slips, dry storage, boat rentals, fuel sales, retail sales (food, beverage, fishing tackle, bait, camping and picnicking supplies, souvenirs, etc.), boat repairs, guided services, and day use picnic and fishing sites.

Bolar Flat provides the only marina on Lake Moomaw. Driving times to the closest other marinas are:

• Smith Mountain Lake at Westlake Corner, VA – about 2.25 hours

• Summersville Lake in Summersville, WV – about 2.5 hours

• Claytor Lake Marina in Claytor Lake State Park, Dublin, VA – about 2.5 hours

• Lake Anna, Anna’s Point, VA – about 2 ¾ hours

• Philpot Lake in Bassett, VA – about 3 hours

• Tygart Lake in Tygart Lake State Park, Grafton, WV - about 3 hours

A. Introduction

This prospectus is being issued to solicit applications for a concession marina special use permit.

A permit to provide high-quality public service for the operation and maintenance of Government-owned recreation facilities located on the Warm Springs Ranger District, George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, will be issued. The permit will include the following developed sites:

Bolar Flat Marina Day Use Area Facilities:

• Floating boat dock with 37 slips and small storage building

• Store building with counter, employee restroom, storage closet – 652 square feet

• Above ground 2,000-gallon gas tank and dispenser pumps

• Dry storage area for approximately 41 RVs and boats

• Double-lane boat ramp

• Small boat ramp for canoes and kayaks with courtesy dock

• Small fishing pier

• 12 picnic sites near boat ramp and along the shoreline

• Group picnic shelter with restrooms, accommodates 60 people

• Restroom building

• Day use paved parking lot for 122 vehicles that serves store, boat docks and ramps

• Day use gravel parking lot for 20 vehicles that serves the picnic sites and fishing pier

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

• Day use asphalt parking lot for 20 vehicles that serves the picnic shelter

• Underground septic tanks

• Underground water lines

Bolar Flat Marina Recreation Facilities. The dock associated with the large boat ramp at the right side of image is no longer present.

The authorized officer for this business opportunity is the Forest Supervisor for the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, 5162 Valleypointe Parkway, Roanoke, VA 24019- 3050. Over the last three full years of full-service operation, the concession generated the following gross revenues at the Bolar Flat marina:

Year Gross Revenue 2017 $153,797 2018 $192,510 2019 $113,149

B. Area Description Lake Moomaw is located north Covington and west Warm Springs and Hot Springs, Virginia. This deep, clear lake at 1634 feet of elevation includes portions of the James River Ranger District in

Group Picnic Shelter

Restrooms

Shoreline Picnic Sites

Dry Storage

Storage shed, location to be determined

Store and Gas Pump

Parking Lots

& Boat Slips

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

Alleghany County and the Warm Springs Ranger District in Bath County. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) constructed Gathright Dam for downstream flow augmentation, flood control, and recreation. The lake opened to the public in 1981. It covers 2,530 surface acres and has a maximum depth of 152 feet. There are 43 miles of undeveloped, wooded shoreline. Lake Moomaw is “drawn down” between 20-25 feet annually, beginning slowly in June and reaching its lowest level usually by September. The USACE constructed some recreation facilities around the lake including the installation of infrastructure such as water and wastewater systems.

The USACE transferred the recreation facilities around the lake’s edge to the FS. The dam and associated visitor center remain in the ownership and under management of the USACE. The lake is completely bordered by public land, primarily National Forest System lands, the dam and visitor center owned by USACE, and two tracts of the Gathright Wildlife Management Area owned and managed by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR). VDWR is responsible for enforcing boating, fishing, and hunting regulations on and around Lake Moomaw.

The Bolar Flat Marina and Day Use recreation area (the marina) is in Bath County on the Warm Springs Ranger District. This is on the northern end of Lake Moomaw, which is the second largest lake in western Virginia.

This area is a draw to outdoor enthusiasts due to the endless recreation opportunities at the lake and within Bath County. The primary use of this area is for water sports, including boating (both motorized and non-motorized), fishing, swimming, and camping. This area is also popular for hunting, biking, hiking, birding, and sightseeing.

Lake Moomaw is most known for its “two-story” sport fishery. The story comprising the top 15 feet or so at the surface supports warm water fish such as bass, catfish, sunfish, crappie. The lake is stocked annually with thousands of largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and channel catfish. A layer of cold, oxygenated water lies below 15 feet from the surface. It is in this zone that stocked rainbow, brown, and brook trout thrive. Alewives, members of the herring family, were stocked in the early 1980’s in order to establish a plentiful food base for both trout and other predators. These small, silvery fish are abundant and seemingly the prey of choice for trophy fish that are caught from Lake Moomaw.

The full pool level of Lake Moomaw is defined as 1,582 feet above sea level, but it is not uncommon for the level to fluctuate from about 1,560 feet or less, to 1,586 feet or more, in response to excessive rainfall or drought and downstream water flow needs. Decisions affecting lake levels are made by the USACE.

The weather in Bath County is typically cooler than most areas in Virginia. The temperatures vary from 24 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit and is rarely below 8 degrees or above 87 degrees. The hottest month is July with an average daily high temperature of about 82 degrees, and the coolest month is January with a low of about 19 degrees. Bath County, on average, gets 44 inches of rain and 30 inches of snow annually. It receives some form of precipitation 123 days per year on average.

Bolar Mountain Recreation Area is easily accessible to the populations of Pittsburg PA, Charleston WV, Baltimore MD, Washington, DC, and basically all areas of Virginia, West Virginia, and western Maryland. Many visitors are local to the area, frequently enjoying this great amenity that lies so close to home. The peak season of use is early May through early September; however, the marina serves numerous anglers and hunters during the shoulder seasons of March to April, and September to early December. Visitation is low during the winter months.

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

C. Description of Developed Recreation Sites and Facilities

The following is a description of each developed recreation site and facility included in this prospectus (also, see Appendix 2 of the prospectus).

Bolar Flat Marina and Day Use Areas The Bolar Flat marina and associated day use areas are located on the north end of Lake Moomaw.

The nearest town are Hot Springs and Warm Springs, Virginia, about 20 miles. To get to this site:

• Coming from the north at the confluence of I-81 and I-64 at Lexington, Virginia, take I-64 west for 13 miles to Exit 43, then north on SR 780 (Scenic Drive) for 0.7 mile, then left (west) onto West Midland Trail for about 0.8 mile, then right onto SR 780 now named Brattons Run.

Follow SR 780 for 8.4 miles. Turn left onto SR 39 (Maury River Road) and go for 1.3 mile.

Turn left onto SR 39/SR42 (Virginia Avenue). Follow this for about 8 miles and then stay straight to remain on SR 39 (Mountain Valley Road) for about 19 more miles to Warm Springs. At the intersection of SR 39 and US Highway 220, follow SR 39 west for about 12 miles to SR 600 (Bolar Draft Road). Turn left on SR 600 and follow it for about 8 miles (after

7.2 miles, at the intersection with Twin Ridge Drive, the route number changes to SR 603 however the road name remains Bolar Draft Road). The marina is on the right.

• Coming from the south on I-81 near Troutville, take Exit 150B onto US 220 north and travel approximately 32 miles to Cliftondale Park. Take I64 East for 2 miles; use Exit 29, then turn left onto Route 42 northbound (Cow Pasture River Highway). Travel approximately 16 miles to Millboro Springs. Turn left onto Route 39 north/west (Mountain Valley Road) and travel 14 miles to US 220 at Warm Springs. Continue west on SR 39 for 12 miles to SR 600 (Bolar Draft Road). Turn left on SR 600 and follow it for about 8 miles (after 7.2 miles, at the intersection with Twin Ridge Drive, the route number changes to SR 603 however the road name remains Bolar Draft Road). The marina is on the right.

• Coming from the west on I-64 at Lewisburg, West Virginia, take I-64 East to Exit 175 and turn left off the exit toward Routes 60 and 92. At T-intersection, turn right onto Route 92 north and 60 east (Midland Trail East toward White Sulphur Springs). Travel 4.7 miles, then turn left onto WV-92 (Pocahontas Trail). Travel 31 miles to the T-intersection with SR 39.

Turn east (right) onto SR 39. Travel just over 4 miles on SR 39 and then turn right onto SR

600. Follow SR 600 for about 8 miles (after 7.2 miles, at the intersection with Twin Ridge Drive, the route number changes to SR 603 however the road name remains Bolar Draft Road). The marina is on the right.

As described in more detail below, this offering includes a store, above-ground gas tank and pump, large boat ramp, floating dock with boat slips, small boat ramp, small courtesy dock, small fishing pier, graveled area for dry RV and boat storage, individual picnic sites, flush toilet building, group picnic shelter with restrooms, two RV sites with full hookups for managers’ use, and exterior lights at the store, and gas pump. There are underground water distribution lines, and a passive septic system.

The typical operating season for the marina is mid-May through mid-September, and year-round for the boat ramp.

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

Store The Marina store was built in 1990-1991. The compact, brick building is 652 square feet in size with electricity, small bathroom for employee use, a built-in counter, utility room, phone line.

Gas Tank and Dispenser An aboveground double-wall 2,000-gallon gas tank and dispenser was installed in 2016. The nearest public fueling station is located 15 miles from the Marina. The permit holder is responsible for obtaining all applicable state and/or federal permits or licenses, developing plans required by state and/or federal agencies such as but not limited to a Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC), and for operations and maintenance requirements related to acquisition, storage, distribution, and sale of gas.

Storage Shed - Temporary Structures There is no storage shed available onsite. Permit holder can propose a temporary storage facility with Forest Service approval.

Dry Storage To the north of the store, a double lane gravel lot provides dry storage rental space for approximately 41 boats and recreational vehicles (RVs). This lot is used by frequent visiting campers, and some locals find this a convenient alternative to trailering their boats to the lake each time they visit. If dry storage is offered for year-round use, adequate security measures must be provided.

Visitor Parking Two paved parking lots serve visitors to the boat launch and store. It accommodates 122 vehicle/boat trailer combinations. The permit holder could propose using a portion of the parking lot(s) to expand the dry storage area if demand exceeds current capacity.

Boat Ramp The most popular facility at Bolar Flat is the two lane, paved boat launch. A small floating courtesy dock was installed in 2023 and is anchored to the boat ramp. A small kayak courtesy dock is available for assembly and use by the permit holder.

Floating Dock Adjacent to the boat ramp is a floating dock. The dock has 38 boat slips of which 37 are offered in this opportunity. The dock is anchored to the lake bottom with a system of concrete block anchors and cables. There is a small metal storage building on the dock that can be used by the permit holder.

The permit holder will be responsible for adjusting the floating dock during the operating season as lake levels fluctuate. Outside of the operating season, the Forest Service will be responsible for adjusting the dock cables. At times, the lake level can rise or drop several feet in a 24-hour period, requiring close monitoring and frequent adjustment of the dock cable system. The ramp/gangway to the dock floats up and down on steel pilings, although sometimes it can be underwater at very high lake levels.

RV Sites Two (2) RV sites are available with full hookups (water, 30 amp electric, sewage)and are located near the boat ramp and are able to accommodate up to 30 ft. RVs. These sites are for use by the permit holder only.

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

Visitor Restroom Building A heated restroom building with flush toilets is located near the boat ramp and adjacent to the parking lot.

Family Picnic Area Single family picnic sites are offered in the vicinity of the marina along the shoreline stretching between the boat ramp and the picnic shelter. There are two pedestal grills and two fire rings, and 12 picnic tables; four (4) tables with cooking devices. There is 122 vehicle paved parking lot adjacent to the boat ramp as well as an additional 20-vehicle paved parking lot on the south end of this shoreline picnic area to accommodate visitors. Utilization of these single-family picnic sites is for day use only.

Picnic Shelter A group picnic shelter is offered on the south end of this site. The shelter was built in the late 1970’s and is constructed of split block. There is a concrete floor, shingle roof, flush toilet restrooms, 11 picnic tables and 1 pedestal double grill. It can accommodate a group size of 60 people. A small fire pit, grass lawn, and lake views are attractions. Parking is provided for 20 vehicles in a gravel lot beside the shelter with gated access, and 20 vehicle passes are issued to reservation holders to allow use of the day use facilities throughout the Bolar Flat and Bolar Mountain recreation areas. Use of this group picnic shelter is offered on the National Recreation Reservation System (NRRS, Recreation.gov). When it is not reserved, the permit holder may offer it for rental on a first-come, first-served basis. Utilization of the picnic shelter, whether by reservation or on a first-come, first-served basis is for day use only – no camping will be authorized at this site.

Fishing Pier A small accessible fishing pier is located adjacent to the family picnic sites and near the group picnic shelter.

Required Services for Bolar Flat Marina and Day Use Area The following visitor services at the Bolar Flat Marina are required:

• Boat/RV Storage, both wet and dry

• Picnic facilities with restrooms (individual family sites and group picnic shelter)

• Store that offers:

o Food service such as pre-packaged snacks, drinks, ice, and select grocery and sundry items frequently needed or desired by anglers, picnickers, and campers.

o Fuel Sales (non-ethanol)

Characteristics of Developed Recreation Sites

Site

Bolar Flat Marina and Day Use

Communications One landline at marina store.

Utilities Water, electricity, and septic.

Drinking Water Bolar Flat is served by wells located nearby on Bolar Draft Road and within the Bolar Mountain Recreation Area.

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

Toilet Types

• One (1) Day Use Area flush toilet building: 5 toilets, 2 urinals, and 4 sinks

• One (1) bathroom facility located at Picnic Shelter: 3 toilets, 1 urinal, 4 sinks

• Store: 1 flush toilet, 1 sink Septic Holding Tank Capacity 2,500 gallons x two (2), 1500 gallons x one (1)

Gas tank 2,000 gallons (non-ethanol only), above-ground, double-walled, with gas dispensing system, control panel in the store

Forest Service Trash Bins One (1) in the store and two (2) in the picnic shelter.

Trash Bin Type

1 Bear-resistant dumpster is provided by the Forest Service and serviced by permittee’s contractor. Additional dumpsters (required to be bear-resistant) can be purchased by the permit holder and serviced by the permit holder’s contractor.

Accessibility 5 accessible parking spaces Elevation 1,700 feet

Number of Parking Spaces

122 vehicle/boat/trailer spaces for day use 41 boat/RV spaces for long-term dry storage 20 vehicle parking spaces for family picnic area and fishing pier 20 vehicle parking spaces at group picnic shelter

2025 Day Use Fee

$5.00 per vehicle to use facilities per single day. Forest annual day use passes may be purchased at a discounted price from Forest Service and sold at full price to the public. These passes do not apply to the Bolar Flat Marina Day Use Facilities.

2025 Day Use Fee Per Picnic Shelter

$85 per day, includes 20 vehicle passes, $5 each additional vehicle.

Picnic shelter vehicle passes allow use of boat ramp, courtesy dock, kayak dock, and other day use areas within Bolar Flat and Bolar Mountain on the same day as picnic shelter rental. Shelter is reservable.

Minimum Operating Season

May 15 to September 15 for marina floating docks (courtesy and kayak docks), boat slips (wet storage), dry storage, store, picnic facilities, picnic shelter, and public restroom.

Year-round for boat ramp.

Three-Year Average Annual Gross Revenue

$153,152 (2017-2019 which was the last span of 3 full calendar years that the Marina and day use facilities were operated.)

D. Government-Furnished Property

The Forest Service will provide certain property in conjunction with the concession marina special use permit (see Appendix 3 of the prospectus). That inventory list provides description, the quantities, and the estimated replacement costs of the applicable property.

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

E. Government-Furnished Supplies

The Forest Service will not furnish any supplies for day-to-day operation of the concession.

Government-furnished supplies will be limited to those necessary for programmatic consistency, including:

• Forms to report visitor use and revenue.

• A copy of the Forest Service publication: “Cleaning Recreation Sites.”

• Title VI signs.

F. Utilities and Waste Management

Certain utilities and infrastructure exist for the developed recreation sites identified in this prospectus. The permit holder will be responsible for securing, managing, and paying for these utilities. Applicants should contact current service providers to obtain estimated costs for the utilities. These utilities include:

Electrical

BARC Electric Coop provides electrical service to this area with 3 electrical meters. BARC is in Millboro, Virginia, and contact information is 800-846-BARC (2272), and by email at co-op@barcelectric.com. Their website address is http://www.barcelectric.com/

Telephone/Internet

This area has little to no cell phone coverage at this time. A public phone must be provided by the permit holder at the Bolar Flat Marina Store providing 911 service.. Dial up and satellite internet services may be acquired and utilized by the permit holder. Telephone services are currently provided by MGW Telephone Company, (540) 279-4255. The website address is MGW (mgwnet.com).

Fuel

The previous fuel provider was located in Hot Springs, Virginia. Other suppliers for fuel may be available in the area.

Water

Water is provided by a nearby (on Bolar Draft Road) system consisting of a well and two 5,000-gallon reservoir/tanks. The well and tanks serve Bolar Flat Marina and Day Use Area as well as the Bolar Mountain Recreation complex. A second well with holding tanks is located at the Bolar Mountain Recreation Area. This well can operate in tandem with the Bolar Flat well.

mailto:co-op@barcelectric.com mailto:co-op@barcelectric.com http://www.barcelectric.com/ https://www.mgwnet.com/

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

The Forest Service will be responsible for water system operations including seasonal startup and shutdown of the system and testing required by the Virginia Department of Health. The Forest Service retains the right to install a water meter and charge the permit holder a negotiated fee for water and wastewater system maintenance and operation. In this event, the permit holder shall deposit funds into a cooperative account at times and in amounts specified by the Authorized Officer. Any amount deposited exceeding the cost of these utilities and services shall be refunded to the holder.

Garbage

The permit holder will be responsible for garbage removal at all sites. The previous refuse removal service was provided by an entity located in Green Bank, WV. Other vendors for garbage removal services may be available.

Liquid and Solid Waste Disposal

The previous provider for this service was provided by an entity located in Green Bank, WV.

Other vendors for pumping of the septic tank may be available.

G. Planned Forest Service Projects

The Forest Service plans to replace the sewage treatment system that serves nearby Bolar Mountain Recreation Area. It may be required to close the Bolar Mountain Recreation Area during project implementation. This closure could potentially impact visitation to the Bolar Flat Marina and Day Use Area.

II. Forest Service Concession Programs and Policies

Government-owned concessions are authorized by special use permits issued under Section 7 of the Granger-Thye (GT) Act, 16 U.S.C. 580d, and implementing regulations at 36 CFR Part 251, Subpart B.

In addition, there are certain Forest Service programs and policies that apply to campground and day use concessions. All applications must be consistent with these requirements.

A. Recreation.gov

The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests participate in Recreation.gov, which provides nationwide, toll-free telephone and website reservations for group picnic shelters and other recreational activities on federal public lands. Visitors pay the picnic shelter fee at the time they make a reservation, and no fees are collected at the site (although the permit holder may allow occupancy if the site is unreserved and charge on site for that use). Recreation.gov is part of the Recreation One-Stop Program, which is managed by the Washington Office Recreation, Heritage, and Volunteer Resources staff. The Forest Service contacts and program managers for Recreation.gov are listed below. Applicants should not contact the Recreation.gov contractor directly.

https://www.recreation.gov/ https://www.recreation.gov/

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

Tiffany Williams, Developed Recreation Program Manager, Fee Program Coordinator, Accessibility Coordinator, USFS Southern Region Telephone: 404-576-1024 Email: tiffany.p.williams@usda.gov

Griffin Schireman, Program Specialist, USFS Washington Office Recreation & Heritage Resources Telephone: 541-910-1705 Email: griffin.schiremn@usda.gov

Recreation.gov is the only authorized reservation system for Forest Service recreation sites, including but not limited to group use areas. Applicants may recommend adding sites to or deleting sites from Recreation.gov or changing the number of sites that may be reserved, the minimum number of days per reservation, or the location of sites that may be reserved. The permit holder also may make these recommendations during the term of the permit. The authorized officer decides whether to accept or reject the recommendations.

Under Recreation.gov, the following guidelines must be followed, unless there are compelling operational reasons:

When Recreation.gov is utilized, the permit holder is responsible for on-site administration and will be required to:

• Obtain daily arrival reports (DARs) each morning by establishing at least one central facsimile location, email address, or other means of obtaining and distributing DARs.

• Develop a system for posting reservations at the sites so other visitors know it is reserved.

• Post and hold reserved sites for the day of the reservation.

• Ensure that the party with the reservation is the party using the site.

• Resolve any disputes over the use of the reserve site.

• Develop inventory data for sites being added to Recreation.gov, and update data for sites including fees charged the public and temporary site closures. Submit data updates to Recreation.gov at least annually.

• Communicate with district staff for any emergency closures or other relevant operational changes as they occur.

• Approve customer refunds as appropriate and process them through Recreation.gov.

Refund policies can be found at https://support.recreation.gov/.

Recreation.gov is already accepting reservations for the 2025 season. Fees received by Recreation.gov will be held by the Forest Service and distributed following issuance of a special use permit to the successful applicant. In the final year of the permit, fees will be held in the same manner until a new permit is issued. The permit holder will honor reservations made prior mailto:terry.tery@usda.gov https://support.recreation.gov/

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests to issuance of the permit at the price in effect when the reservations were made. If funds are distributed prematurely for dates outside the permit term, a bill for collection will to be issued to the permit holder.

B. Pass Discounts

The permit holder must provide a 50 percent discount on recreation fees charged under the Recreation Enhancement Act (REA) at developed recreation sites covered by this prospectus to holders of Golden Age and Golden Access Passports, as well as holders of the Interagency Senior and Access Passes.

Holders of Golden Age and Golden Access Passports, as well as holders of the Interagency Senior and Access passes are entitled to a 50 percent discount on certain offerings such as single campsites. The pass holders are not entitled to a discount on the fee for a group use area. Pass discounts do not apply to the Bolar Flat Marina and associated day use areas.

Standard Amenity Recreation Fee Sites Under REA [Reserved]. The Forest Service is proposing a revision to FSM 2344.3 to address treatment of standard amenity recreation fee sites in the concession program. The agency reserves the right to amend a special use permit issued under this prospectus to be consistent with any change in that directive.

C. Camp Stamps

Camp stamps must be honored at their face value and submitted to the authorized officer for reimbursement.

D. Site Closure

The Forest Service reserves the right to close all or a portion of any area in this prospectus for repair; construction; floods, snow, extreme fire danger, or other natural events; wildlife protection; or risks to public health and safety. The Forest Service shall not be liable to the permit holder for lost revenue, operating costs, or any other losses resulting from these closures.

However, for fee calculation purposes, the permit shall be placed in non-use status as provided by FSH 2709.11, section 31.23.

E. Administrative Use

If the Forest Service requires the permit holder to provide a service for the agency, the permit holder will be compensated for that use.

F. Applicable Forest Orders

Forest Orders may be issued to address a variety of management concerns on a particular forest.

Sample orders related to the offering are identified in Appendix 4. Additional applicable forest orders may be issued in the future.

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

G. Fee Tickets and Compilation of Use and Revenue Data

The permit holder must provide fee envelopes and hang tags to visitors that include at least the following information:

• The site number and total amount paid.

• The date of issuance and number of days paid for.

• If a pass is used, the pass number.

• The number of people in the group.

• The number of vehicles and their license plate numbers.

The permit holder must provide use and revenue data to the Forest Service (see Appendix 5 of the prospectus for a sample use report). Use reports must be completed monthly and at the end of the operating season for each developed recreation site, provided that when the holder performs GT fee offset work in lieu of paying the land use fee in cash, use reports may be submitted quarterly, rather than monthly. At a minimum, monthly and year-end use reports must include:

• The total number of units occupied based on daily counts.

• The total number of people based on daily counts.

• The percentage of occupancy by month.

• Total recreation fee revenue.

• Total fee revenue for other goods and services.

• The total number of Camp Stamps collected.

• The total number of passes used.

In addition, year-end use reports must include:

• Total fee revenue collected under the NRRS.

• Total taxes paid.

• Total gross revenue.

• Total net revenue.

H. Customer Service Comment Cards

The permit holder must provide a customer service comment card to visitors at each developed recreation site (see Appendix 6 of the prospectus).

I. Performance Evaluations

At a minimum, the Forest Service will perform a year-end performance evaluation within four months of the close of the operating season (see Appendix 7 of the prospectus). An unsatisfactory rating may be cause for suspension or revocation of the special use permit.

Sustained satisfactory performance is required for a permit extension.

J. Accessibility

The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (ABA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 require new or altered facilities to be accessible, with few exceptions. In 2004, the Architectural

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board) issued revised accessibility guidelines for buildings and facilities subject to the ABA and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These new guidelines are called the ADA/ABA Accessibility Guidelines. In 2006, the Forest Service issued the Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guidelines (FSORAG). The FSORAG addresses types of recreational facilities, including developed recreation sites, that are not covered by ADA/ABA Accessibility Guidelines.

Any Government maintenance, reconditioning, renovation, or improvement (see section III.C) must meet ADA/ABA Accessibility Guidelines, where applicable, as well as the FSORAG.

The FSORAG and the ADA/ABA Accessibility Guidelines are posted on the Forest Service’s website at http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/accessibility. Questions regarding ADA/ABA Accessibility Guidelines may be referred to the Access Board at www.access-board.gov. Questions regarding the FSORAG may be referred to the accessibility coordinator for the local National Forest.

The permit holder is responsible for ensuring effective communication with visitors with disabilities, including persons with impaired vision or hearing, so that all visitors may obtain information on accessible services, activities, and facilities.

K. Capacities of Day Use Areas

Number of Vehicles

A “vehicle” is defined as any motorized conveyance, except that for purposes of vehicular capacity, two motorcycles are considered one vehicle.

Day Use Site Capacities

• Bolar Flat Marina and store parking lot capacity is 120 vehicle/boat trailer combinations.

• Bolar Flat picnic shelter capacity is 60 people with parking for 20 vehicles.

• Bolar Flat family picnic area capacity is approximately 160 people and is served by a 20-vehicle parking lot and a shared parking lot with the marina.

• Bolar Flat accessible fishing pier capacity is six (6) people and shares parking with the

Bolar Flat family picnic area.

L. Fees Charged to the Public

The permit holder may charge the public fees only to the extent that the Forest Service can charge recreation fees under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (REA). All recreation fees must be specified per developed recreation site. The holder must honor the proposed pricing through the first full operating season. Thereafter, the holder may propose price adjustments with justification.

Permit holders may not charge for any of the following:

• Solely for parking, undesignated parking, or picnicking along roads or trail sides.

• General access, unless specifically authorized by REA.

• Dispersed areas with low or no investment, unless specifically authorized by REA.

http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/accessibility

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

• Persons who are driving through, walking through, boating through, horseback riding through, or hiking through NFS lands without using the recreational facilities and services for which a fee is charged.

• Use of overlooks or scenic pullouts.

• Travel by private, noncommercial vehicle over any national parkway or any road or highway in the Federal-aid System that is commonly used by the public as a means of travel between two places, either or both of which are outside an area in which recreation fees are charged.

• Travel by private, noncommercial vehicle, boat, or aircraft over any road, highway, waterway, or airway to any land in which the person traveling has a property right, if the land is in an area in which recreation fees are charged.

• Any person who has a right of access for hunting or fishing privileges under a specific provision of law or treaty.

• Any person who is engaged in the conduct of official federal, state, tribal, or local government business.

• Special attention or extra services necessary to meet the needs of the disabled.

M. Law Enforcement

Forest Service Manual (FSM) 2342.1, Exhibit 01, addresses the law enforcement authorities and responsibilities of concessionaires, state and local law enforcement agencies, and the Forest Service at concession campgrounds. See Appendix 8 of the prospectus.

On the lake, regulations pertaining to boating and fishing are enforced by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR). Enforcement officers patrol the lake regularly, especially in the summer months.

N. Other Pertinent Information

Debris Cleanup Decisions affecting lake levels are made by the USACE. The full pool level of Lake Moomaw is defined as 1,582 feet above sea level, but it is not uncommon for the level to fluctuate from about 1,560 feet or less, to 1,586 feet or more, in response to excessive rainfall or drought and downstream water flow needs. These fluctuations may sometimes affect recreational use of the lake. Most years, the water level begins to recede in late July, continuing through winter. When the lake is more than 18 feet below full pool, boating becomes difficult due to submerged treetops at the water surface. By April, however, due to spring rains, the lake is usually full again. In some years, spring rains can also bring water levels above full pool causing large amounts of woody debris to be deposited along the shore, particularly at Bolar Flat Marina.

Removal of the debris is the responsibility of the permit holder(s). Prospective bidders who wish to learn more about the management of the lake from the USACE may contact them at (540) 962-1138 or visit their website at:

http://www.nao.usace.army.mil/About/Projects/GathrightMoomaw.aspx.

http://www.nao.usace.army.mil/About/Projects/GathrightMoomaw.aspx

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

Wildlife Mitigation The permit holder is responsible for assuring that food is not stored or disposed of outside of trailers or other enclosed living spaces, and that food is removed seasonally to prevent unwanted wildlife encounters. No bird feeders are allowed.

Hazard Tree Removal

The permit holder will conduct pre-season inspection of the areas included in the concession permit to identify existing and potential hazards trees. The permit holder will be responsible for removing these trees before areas can be opened to the public. The permit holder will be responsible for monitoring and identifying hazard trees during the operating season. After securing approval from the authorized officer, the permit holder’s financial responsibility for removing hazard trees and associated slash will not exceed 1% of the gross revenue per year.

For example, a concessionaire with gross revenue of approximately $120,000 should be responsible for up to $1,200 per year for hazard tree removal.

The annual operating plan will address appropriate disposal of hazard trees and slash.

Butane and Propane Installations

For safety and regulatory reasons, the holder is not allowed to install and/or store bulk butane or propane for refill without Forest Service approval in writing. Exchange-a-tank propane gas service with tanks not to exceed 20 pounds would be allowed. The Annual Operating Plan and Permit will describe the specific terms of how these and other hazardous materials are managed (including the volume, type of storage, and spill containment plan) (See Appendix 10: Sample Special Use Permit, Form FS-2700-4h, Clauses V.A, G and H).

III. Special Use Permit

In exercising the rights and privileges granted by the special use permit, the permit holder must comply with all present and future federal laws and regulations and all present and future state, county, and municipal laws, regulations, and other legal requirements that apply to the permit area, to the extent they do not conflict with federal law, regulation, or policy. The Forest Service assumes no responsibility for enforcing laws, regulations, and other legal requirements that fall under the jurisdiction of other governmental entities.

A. Permit Term

The permit term will be for up to 5 years, with an option to extend the term for up to an additional 5 years at the sole discretion of the authorized officer. The decision to extend the term will depend, in part, on sustained satisfactory performance of the permit holder. Upon expiration of the permit, continuation of the permitted activity will be at the sole discretion of the authorized officer and will be subject to a competitive offering. A new prospectus will be issued during the final year of the permit term.

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

If the decision to select a permit holder is appealed, a permit will not be issued until the appeal has been resolved, unless operation is needed during the appeal, in which case a permit with a term of one year or less may be issued.

B. Permit Holder Responsibilities

This section highlights the requirements of the special use permit, which is contained in Appendix 10 of the prospectus. Applicants are responsible for familiarizing themselves with all permit requirements that govern the operation covered by this prospectus.

Responsibility for Day-to-Day Activities

As a general rule, the holder will be required to conduct the day-to-day activities authorized by the permit. Some, but not all, of these activities may be conducted by someone other than the permit holder, but only with the prior written approval of the authorized officer. The permit holder will continue to be responsible for compliance with all the terms of the permit.

Permit Holder-Furnished Supplies and Equipment

The permit holder will be required to provide all vehicles, equipment, and supplies necessary to operate the authorized developed recreation sites in accordance with the special use permit.

Holder-Furnished Vehicles

The permit holder may not use all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, or motorbikes in the Marina area. The holder may propose use of golf carts or other similar vehicles to facilitate daily maintenance of the facilities. If authorized, carts must stay on designated roads and paths while driving between sites.

Holder Maintenance, Reconditioning, or Renovation (MRR)

Maintenance, reconditioning, and renovation are defined in the permit (FS-2700-4h, clause IV.E.1(a), (c)). Holder MRR is defined as maintenance, reconditioning, or renovation that neither materially adds to the value of the property nor appreciably prolongs its life. The work serves only to keep the facility in an ordinary, efficient operating condition. From an accounting or tax perspective, it is work that may be expensed but not capitalized. In fulfilling these responsibilities, the holder must obtain any licenses and certified inspections required by regulatory agencies and follow state and local laws, regulations, and ordinances and industry standards or codes applicable to the permitted operation (FS-2700-4h, clause IV.E.1(d)). The permit holder, at its expense, will be required to perform holder MRR under a holder MRR plan (FS-2700-4h, clause II.D). The holder MRR plan will describe required holder MRR and its frequency. The holder MRR plan will become part of the permit holder's annual operating plan.

C. Granger-Thye Fee Offset Agreement

The federal government owns all the improvements at the developed recreation sites covered by this prospectus. Under Section 7 of the Granger-Thye (GT) Act and the terms of the permit, the permit fee may be offset in whole or in part by the value of Government maintenance, Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests reconditioning, renovation, and improvement (MRRI) performed at the permit holder’s expense.

Government MRRI is defined as maintenance, reconditioning, renovation, or improvement that arrests deterioration, improves and upgrades facilities, and appreciably prolongs the life of the property. Government maintenance, reconditioning, renovation or improvement, whether performed by the holder or the Forest Service, shall be performed at the sole discretion of the authorized officer. See Appendix 4 of the prospectus and FS-2700-4h, clause IV.E.

All Government MRRI shall be enumerated in an annual GT fee offset agreement signed by the holder and the Forest Service in advance of the operating season (see Appendix 11 of the prospectus and FS-2700-4h, Appendix B). Alternatively, a multi-year fee GT fee offset agreement can be prepared for consolidated fee payments. A list of sample Government MRRI projects is included in Appendix 12 of the prospectus.

Either the holder or the Forest Service may perform GT fee offset work. This determination will be made annually. When the holder performs GT fee offset work, if it includes construction that costs more than $2,000, it is subject to the Davis-Bacon Act and the fee offset agreement must contain Davis-Bacon Act wage provisions. Additionally, indirect costs may be offset provided the holder submits either a currently approved indirect cost rate or accounting procedures and supporting documentation to determine an indirect cost rate (see Appendix 13 of the prospectus).

The holder’s claims for GT fee offset must be documented using the FS-2700-4h, Appendix G, Granger-Thye Fee Offset Certification Form (see Appendix 14 of the prospectus). This form requires the holder to itemize allowable costs incurred for an approved GT fee offset project and to certify the accuracy and completeness of claims.

When the Forest Service performs GT fee offset work, the holder will deposit fee payments into a CWFS account. The Forest Service will perform GT fee offset work under a collection agreement and offset those costs against the permit holder’s annual permit fee (see FS-2700-4h, clause IV.E.3, and Appendix 15 of the prospectus). The Forest Service’s indirect costs may be offset at the agency’s approved rate. The Forest Service and the holder will agree on the work to be performed in advance of each operating season.

D. Insurance

Liability Insurance

The successful applicant must have liability insurance covering losses associated with the use and occupancy authorized by the permit arising from personal injury or death and third-party property damage in the minimum amount of $50,000 for injury or death to one person per occurrence; $500,000 for injury or death to more than one person per occurrence; and $500,000 for third-party property damage per occurrence, or in the minimum amount of $500,000 as a combined single limit per occurrence. Insurance policies must name the United States as an additional insured (see Appendix 10 of the prospectus and FS-2400-4h, clause III.I).

Property Insurance

Property insurance will be required in the amount of $700,000 for replacement in-kind of the insured property (see Appendix 3, Inventory of Government-Furnished Property).

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

IV. Application

A. Instructions for Submitting Applications

Applicants must submit a written application for all developed recreation sites offered in this prospectus.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to visit the sites at least once before submitting an application (see Appendices 1 and 2, vicinity and area maps and maps of developed recreation sites).

The information in this prospectus is from generally reliable sources, but no warranty is made as to its accuracy. Each applicant is expected to make an independent assessment of the business opportunity offered in this prospectus.

All applications must be submitted to Forest Supervisor, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Attention: Jason Osborne, 5162 Valleypointe Parkway, Roanoke, VA 24019.

Applications must be received by close of business (4:30 p.m.) on April 16, 2025. The deadline to submit questions regarding the prospectus is April 14, 2025.

Applicants must submit three…