12475620D0001 SF 1449 Continuation Sheet.pdf

12475620D0001 Biological Surveys Cherokee National Forest

Block 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, and 24

Continuation of SF-1449

Biological survey services on lands within the Cherokee National Forest administrative boundaries in east Tennessee. Contractor shall conduct field surveys for Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive (TES) vascular plants, bryophytes, lichens, terrestrial mollusks and rare habitats within designated project areas.

Species of Viability Concern (VC) will also be noted if encountered during the surveys. Lab identification of government-furnished samples of bryophytes and terrestrial mollusks is also required. Following completion of field work, contractor shall prepare and submit a written draft report for each area surveyed broken out by taxa group in accordance with the Contract Clauses, Technical Specifications, and Attachments.

Project areas are located within the administrative boundaries of the Cherokee National Forest:

Ranger Districts: Ocoee, Tellico, Unaka, Watauga Counties: Polk, McMinn, Monroe, Cocke, Greene, Washington, Unicoi, Carter, Sullivan, Johnson, TN

This is an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) services contract with base award schedule (multiple year).

Period of Performance:

Base Period 04/01/2020 thru 03/31/2021 Option Year 1 - 04/01/2021 thru 03/31/2022 Option Year 2 - 04/01/2022 thru 03/31/2023 Option Year 3 - 04/01/2023 thru 03/31/2024 Option Year 4 - 04/01/2024 thru 03/31/2025

A guaranteed minimum of $2,500.00 will be awarded by task order in the base year of the contract. The type of work may vary by task order. Multiple orders may be issued simultaneously for work in different locations on the Forest.

The Government anticipates placing orders not to exceed $435,195.50 over the life of the awarded contract.

Quantities shown on Schedule of Items are estimates based off historical data.

All identified quantities of units of work included in the Schedule of Items are ESTIMATED and are not guaranteed to be available. These estimated quantities are based upon past consumption, current work plans, and projected need and are represented as the Government’s best estimate for covered work during the base year of the contract.

Additionally, Contractor shall be available at the request of the Forest Service for a period of two years following completion of all task orders issued under this contract should the need arise to defend his work in a court of law. Costs for such appearances shall be negotiated at that time.

SCHEDULE OF ITEMS

BIOLOGICAL SURVEY SERVICES

FOR

CHEROKEE NATIONAL FOREST

BASE YEAR – April 01, 2020 through March 31, 2021

Item # Description Pay

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

0001 Botanical Field Surveys 0001A Stand-Sized Areas Over 10 Acres Acre 1200 $ 44.00 $52,800.00 0001B Bulldozer Lines ¼ Mile 8 $115.00 $ 920.00 0001C Trails ¼ Mile 8 $115.00 $ 920.00 0001D Roads ¼ Mile 8 $115.00 $ 920.00

Sub Total $55,560.00

Item # Description Pay

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

0002 Terrestrial Mollusk Surveys Includes Visual Searches and Leaf Litter Collections Obtained in the Field

0002A Stand-Sized Areas Over 10 Acres 12”x7” Bag

20 $588.00 $11,760.00

0002B Bulldozer Lines 12”x7” Bag

8 $588.00 $ 4,704.00

0002C Trails 12”x7” Bag

8 $588.00 $ 4,704.00

0002D Roads 12”x7” Bag

8 $588.00 $ 4,704.00

Sub Total $25,872.00

Item # Description Pay

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

0003 Process Government-Furnished Leaf Litter Bags and Identification of Terrestrial Mollusks Contained Within

12”x7” Bag

10 $273.00 $2,730.00

0004 Process Government-Furnished Snail Vials and Identify Terrestrial Mollusks Contained Within

Vial 5 $ 56.00 $ 280.00

0005 Process Government-Furnished Bryophyte Packets and Identify Specimens Contained Within

Packet 1 $ 34.00 $ 34.00

Sub Total $3,044.00

GRAND TOTAL BASE YEAR $84,476.00

OPTION YEAR 1 – April 01, 2021 through March 31, 2022

Item # Description Pay

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

1001 Botanical Field Surveys 1001A Stand-Sized Areas Over 10 Acres Acre 1200 $ 44.66 $53,592.00 1001B Bulldozer Lines ¼ Mile 8 $116.73 $ 933.84 1001C Trails ¼ Mile 8 $116.73 $ 933.84 1001D Roads ¼ Mile 8 $116.73 $ 933.84

Sub Total $56,393.52

Item # Description Pay

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

1002 Terrestrial Mollusk Surveys Includes Visual Searches and Leaf Litter Collections Obtained in the Field

1002A Stand-Sized Areas Over 10 Acres 12”x7” Bag

20 $596.82 $11,936.40

1002B Bulldozer Lines 12”x7” Bag

8 $596.82 $ 4,774.56

1002C Trails 12”x7” Bag

8 $596.82 $ 4,774.56

1002D Roads 12”x7” Bag

8 $596.82 $ 4,774.56

Sub Total $26,260.08

Item # Description Pay

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

1003 Process Government-Furnished Leaf Litter Bags and Identification of Terrestrial Mollusks Contained Within

12”x7” Bag

10 $277.10 $2,771.00

1004 Process Government-Furnished Snail Vials and Identify Terrestrial Mollusks Contained Within

Vial 5 $ 56.00 $ 280.00

1005 Process Government-Furnished Bryophyte Packets and Identify Specimens Contained Within

Packet 1 $ 34.00 $ 34.00

Sub Total $3,085.00

GRAND TOTAL OPTION YEAR 1 $85,738.60

OPTION YEAR 2 – April 01, 2022 through March 31, 2023

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

2001 Botanical Field Surveys 2001A Stand-Sized Areas Over 10 Acres Acre 1200 $ 45.33 $54,396.00 2001B Bulldozer Lines ¼ Mile 8 $118.48 $ 947.84 2001C Trails ¼ Mile 8 $118.48 $ 947.84 2001D Roads ¼ Mile 8 $118.48 $ 947.84

Sub Total $57,239.52

Item # Description Pay

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

2002 Terrestrial Mollusk Surveys Includes Visual Searches and Leaf Litter Collections Obtained in the Field

2002A Stand-Sized Areas Over 10 Acres 12”x7” Bag

20 $605.77 $12,115.40

2002B Bulldozer Lines 12”x7” Bag

8 $605.77 $ 4,846.16

2002C Trails 12”x7” Bag

8 $605.77 $ 4,846.16

2002D Roads 12”x7” Bag

8 $605.77 $ 4,846.16

Sub Total $26,653.88

Item # Description Pay

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

2003 Process Government-Furnished Leaf Litter Bags and Identification of Terrestrial Mollusks Contained Within

12”x7” Bag

10 $281.25 $2,812.50

2004 Process Government-Furnished Snail Vials and Identify Terrestrial Mollusks Contained Within

Vial 5 $ 56.00 $ 280.00

2005 Process Government-Furnished Bryophyte Packets and Identify Specimens Contained Within

Packet 1 $ 34.00 $ 34.00

Sub Total $3,126.50

GRAND TOTAL OPTION YEAR 2 $87,019.90

OPTION YEAR 3 – April 01, 2023 through March 31, 2024

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

3001 Botanical Field Surveys 3001A Stand-Sized Areas Over 10 Acres Acre 1200 $ 46.01 $55,212.00 3001B Bulldozer Lines ¼ Mile 8 $120.25 $ 962.00 3001C Trails ¼ Mile 8 $120.25 $ 962.00 3001D Roads ¼ Mile 8 $120.25 $ 962.00

Sub Total $58,098.00

Item # Description Pay

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

3002 Terrestrial Mollusk Surveys Includes Visual Searches and Leaf Litter Collections Obtained in the Field

3002A Stand-Sized Areas Over 10 Acres 12”x7” Bag

20 $614.86 $12,297.20

3002B Bulldozer Lines 12”x7” Bag

8 $614.86 $ 4,918.88

3002C Trails 12”x7” Bag

8 $614.86 $ 4,918.88

3002D Roads 12”x7” Bag

8 $614.86 $ 4,918.88

Sub Total $27,053.84

Item # Description Pay

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

3003 Process Government-Furnished Leaf Litter Bags and Identification of Terrestrial Mollusks Contained Within

12”x7” Bag

10 $285.47 $2,854.70

3004 Process Government-Furnished Snail Vials and Identify Terrestrial Mollusks Contained Within

Vial 5 $ 56.00 $ 280.00

3005 Process Government-Furnished Bryophyte Packets and Identify Specimens Contained Within

Packet 1 $ 34.00 $ 34.00

Sub Total $3,168.70

GRAND TOTAL OPTION YEAR 3 $88,320.54

OPTION YEAR 4 – April 01, 2024 through March 31, 2025

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

4001 Botanical Field Surveys 4001A Stand-Sized Areas Over 10 Acres Acre 1200 $ 46.70 $56,040.00 4001B Bulldozer Lines ¼ Mile 8 $122.06 $ 976.48 4001C Trails ¼ Mile 8 $122.06 $ 976.48 4001D Roads ¼ Mile 8 $122.06 $ 976.48

Sub Total $58,969.44

Item # Description Pay

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

4002 Terrestrial Mollusk Surveys Includes Visual Searches and Leaf Litter Collections Obtained in the Field

4002A Stand-Sized Areas Over 10 Acres 12”x7” Bag

20 $624.08 $12,481.60

4002B Bulldozer Lines 12”x7” Bag

8 $624.08 $ 4,992.64

4002C Trails 12”x7” Bag

8 $624.08 $ 4,992.64

4002D Roads 12”x7” Bag

8 $624.08 $ 4,992.64

Sub Total $27,459.52

Item # Description Pay

Unit Estimated Quantity

Unit Price Total Price

4003 Process Government-Furnished Leaf Litter Bags and Identification of Terrestrial Mollusks Contained Within

12”x7” Bag

10 $289.75 $2,897.50

4004 Process Government-Furnished Snail Vials and Identify Terrestrial Mollusks Contained Within

Vial 5 $ 56.00 $ 280.00

4005 Process Government-Furnished Bryophyte Packets and Identify Specimens Contained Within

Packet 1 $ 34.00 $ 34.00

Sub Total $3,211.50

GRAND TOTAL OPTION YEAR 4 $89,640.46

GRAND TOTAL (BASE PLUS 4 OPTION YEARS) $435,195.50

STATEMENT OF WORK (SOW)

100 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

110 - Key Personnel Resume/Curriculum Vitae

• Personnel or subcontracted personnel will be utilized for each taxonomic group (vascular plants, bryophytes and terrestrial mollusks).

• Document demonstrated years of work experience with Southern Appalachian flora and fauna, with emphasis on vascular plants, bryophytes and terrestrial mollusks.

• Document demonstrated knowledge of identification of vascular plants, bryophytes and terrestrial mollusks.

120 - Government-Furnished Property

The Government will provide the following item(s) of Government property to the Contractor for use in the performance of this contract. This property shall be used and maintained by the Contractor in accordance with the provisions of the "Government Property" FAR Clause 52.245-1, Government Property (Jan 2017).

Government Furnished Property shall include:

1. Topographic maps or shape files of the areas or routes to be surveyed.

2. Known locations of TES and VC species in the project vicinity

3. TES and VC species list for the Cherokee National Forest.

4. Key to the Vegetative Communities of the Cherokee National Forest.

5. EOR Plant Data Excel Spreadsheet; EOR Animal Data Excel Spreadsheet; and Cherokee

Botanical Survey Site Documentation Form.

6. Bryophyte collection packets or templates for packets (need to be folded).

7. Sample leaf litter collection bags, 12x7” (for Terrestrial Mollusk samples).

130 - Botanical Field Surveys Methodology

In general, all botanical surveys (items 1-4 below) will be conducted between April 1st and September 15th; however, this time period may be expanded or contracted after discussion with the COR based upon the location of the survey and seasonal phenology.

1. Stand-Sized Areas: Surveys shall be conducted within defined areas. The survey shall consist of examining the site so that the vegetative communities present can be fully characterized and mapped using the provided key to the vegetative communities of the Cherokee NF. Based upon the contractor’s knowledge of the TES and VC plants and their habitat associations, adequate time shall be spent surveying each vegetative community to make a determination of the presence or absence of rare plant species within the site. The locations of target weed species and rare communities will also be recorded. If habitat exists for a certain rare species but a conclusive determination cannot be made as to its presence/absence in the stand due to the seasonality of the survey, the contractor will note this and may recommend a future visit during the appropriate time of year. Time spent within stands will vary based upon site conditions and habitats present, but previous experience has shown that an adequate survey of a 30 acre stand will take approximately one field day, thus the figure of 30 acres/day should be a guide for planning surveys. Latitude and longitude will be recorded in DECIMAL DEGREES (example: N 35.32910, W -84.25723) for any locations of rare plants, specimens collected for identification, discreet infestations of target weed species, or rare communities (including rock outcrops, wetlands, seeps and springs.).

The locations of elements described above, the approximate boundaries of major vegetative communities (including rare communities) and a GPS track-log of the survey route through the stand, will also be displayed on maps within the report using GIS or other electronic mapping software. Cherokee NF plant survey forms will be used to document the survey, including lists of vascular and non-vascular plants and target weed species encountered within the project areas.

2. Bulldozer Lines: Surveys shall be conducted along proposed bulldozer lines that will be used for controlling prescribed burns. The survey shall consist of following a flagged line and noting the vegetation present in a corridor twelve feet wide (six feet to either side of the flagged line.).

Lines flagged on the ground may not always exactly match GIS maps. Defer to flagged locations but notify COR if deviation appears significant. Based upon the contractor’s knowledge of the TES and VC plants and their habitat associations, adequate time shall be spent surveying the line to make a determination of the presence or absence of rare plant species within the site. The locations of target weed species and rare communities will also be recorded. If habitat exists for a certain rare species but a conclusive determination cannot be made as to its presence/absence in the stand due to the seasonality of the survey, the contractor will note this and may recommend a future visit during the appropriate time of year. Time spent surveying bulldozer lines will vary based upon site conditions and habitats present, but previous experience has shown that an adequate survey of a 3 mile segment will take approximately one field day, thus the figure of 3 miles/day should be a guide for planning surveys. Latitude and longitude will be recorded in DECIMAL DEGREES (example: N 35.32910, W -84.25723) for any locations of rare plants, specimens collected for identification, discreet infestations of target weed species, or rare communities (including rock outcrops, wetlands, seeps and springs.). These locations will also be displayed on maps within the report using GIS or other electronic mapping software. Cherokee NF plant survey forms will be used to document the survey, including lists of vascular and non-vascular plants and target weed species encountered within the project areas.

3. Trails: Surveys shall be conducted along proposed trail routes. The survey shall consist of following a flagged line and noting the vegetation present in a corridor twelve feet wide (six feet to either side of the flagged line.). Lines flagged on the ground may not always exactly match GIS maps. Defer to flagged locations but notify COR if deviation appears significant. Based upon the contractor’s knowledge of the TES and VC plants and their habitat associations, adequate time shall be spent surveying the line to make a determination of the presence or absence of rare plant species within the site. The locations of target weed species and rare communities will also be recorded. If habitat exists for a certain rare species but a conclusive determination cannot be made as to its presence/absence in the stand due to the seasonality of the survey, the contractor will note this and may recommend a future visit during the appropriate time of year. Time spent surveying trails will vary based upon site conditions and habitats present, but previous experience has shown that an adequate survey of a 3 mile segment will take approximately one field day, thus the figure of 3 miles/day should be a guide for planning surveys. Latitude and longitude will be recorded in DECIMAL DEGREES (example: N 35.32910, W -84.25723) for any locations of rare plants, specimens collected for identification, discreet infestations of target weed species, or rare communities (including rock outcrops, wetlands, seeps and springs.). These locations will also be displayed on maps within the report using GIS or other electronic mapping software. Cherokee NF plant survey forms will be used to document the survey, including lists of vascular and non-vascular plants and target weed species encountered within the project areas.

4. Roads: Surveys shall be conducted along flagged routes for proposed new roads. The survey shall consist of following a flagged line and noting the vegetation present in a corridor sixteen feet wide (eight feet to either side of the flagged line.). Lines flagged on the ground may not always exactly match GIS maps. Defer to flagged locations but notify COR if deviation appears significant. Based upon the contractor’s knowledge of the TES and VC plants and their habitat associations, adequate time shall be spent surveying the route to make a determination of the presence or absence of rare plant species within the site. The locations of target weed species and rare communities will also be recorded. If habitat exists for a certain rare species but a conclusive determination cannot be made as to its presence/absence in the stand due to the seasonality of the survey, the contractor will note this and may recommend a future visit during the appropriate time of year. Time spent surveying new road locations will vary based upon site conditions and habitats present, but previous experience has shown that an adequate survey of a 3 mile segment will take approximately one field day, thus the figure of 3 miles/day should be a guide for planning surveys. Latitude and longitude will be recorded in DECIMAL DEGREES (example: N 35.32910, W -84.25723) for any locations of rare plants, specimens collected for identification, discreet infestations of target weed species, or rare communities (including rock outcrops, wetlands, seeps and springs.). These locations will also be displayed on maps within the report using GIS or other electronic mapping software. Cherokee NF plant survey forms will be used to document the survey, including lists of vascular and non-vascular plants and target weed species encountered within the project areas.

140 - Field Documentation

The location of any TES or VC plants found by the contractor shall be marked in the field with paint.

Paint color used will be specified in the final report. Trees or other vegetation around the area containing the rare plants shall be marked so that the boundary is clearly delineated. Locations must be accurately mapped and displayed using GIS or other electronic mapping software. An excel spreadsheet template shall be provided to the contractor and shall be completed for each TES and VC plant location found.

Topographic maps showing the precise location of the plants shall be provided with corresponding numbering that is cross referenced to the record on the spreadsheet. Photographs shall be taken of all TES and VC plants species found and these photographs shall become the property of the Forest Service.

150 - Bryophtye Collections

During the botanical surveys, bryophyte (mosses and liverworts) species will be identified and recorded on the survey forms along with the vascular plant species encountered within the project areas. For any bryophytes that cannot be identified in the field, samples shall be collected in quantities sufficient to adequately represent the diversity present in the project area. The following collection standards will be followed:

Representative specimens shall be collected from a sample of all colonized substrates (example: trees, rock, soil, down wood) from a few sample sites within each surveyed area (stand, trail, dozer line, etc.).

The number of sample sites will vary based upon the local diversity of subtrates and habitat types. A typical collection shall consist of approximately 1 square inch of plant material and should not impact any species’ local population. All specimens will be placed in the collection packets provided and packet labels will be completed with the following information:

o Project Name o County/State o Scientific Name o Collector’s Name & Collection # o Date Of Collection o Plant Community specimen was collected from o Elevation o Aspect o Slope o Substrate o Abundance in area (i.e. common, occassional, rare) o Specific Location (include Lat/Log in decimal degrees, road names, landmarks, etc)

An attempt should be made to make pure collections (i.e. only one species per packet) though it is understood that diminuitive specimens will be included among clumps of larger species, and that some species mats are intertwined with others. Bryophyte collection sites will be documented with latitude and longitude in decimal degrees and clearly shown on the survey maps. Collected specimens must be identified to the species level with species lists included in the final reports. All data from the collection packets will also be recorded electronically in an excel spreadsheet. A template for this spreadsheet will be provided and must not be modified. All specimens collected will become the property of the Forest Service and will be submitted in the properly completed collection packets with the final report.

160 - Process Government-Furnished Bryophyte Packets and Identify Specimiens Contained Within

The Government may require additonal bryophyte samples to be identified. Any specimens collected by the government and sent to the contractor for identification will be subject to the same collection standards as described above.

170 - Terrestrial Fauna Species Survey Methodology

Terrestrial Snail/Slug Searches and Leaf Litter Collections

Leaf Litter Collection and Processing. This method focuses on “micro-snails”, or smaller-bodied and immature snails. Collections shall be made in areas listed below.

As a general rule the following applies: for stand-sized project areas < 10 acres, collect one 12 inch by 7 inch bag of deciduous leaf litter; for stand sized project areas > 10 acres, collect one 12 inch by 7 inch bag of deciduous leaf litter for each 10 acres sampled. This will vary depending on the habitat sampled. The sample should include the dry-damp interface of litter, especially duff and associated fungus. NOTE:

Onsite, examine handfuls of leaf litter with a hand lens as they are collected. If snails are not seen, discard the litter and select another suitable site.

Duration

For stand-sized project areas < 10 acres, duration of collection time should generally be a 20 minute cumulative survey (20 minutes by one person, 10 minutes each by two people, etc.). For stand-sized project areas > 10 acres, conduct at least one 20 minute cumulative survey for each 10 acres of project area. For very large project areas (i.e., proposed prescribed burn), conduct a field reconnaissance of the proposed project area and identify the site(s) with a concentration of microhabitat features (below).

Conduct at least one 20 minute cumulative search within these selected areas per each 10 acres specified in the order. Use intuitive control to achieve a thorough survey.

For linear areas (proposed bulldozer line, proposed road, and proposed trail) collect one 12 inch by 7 inch bag of deciduous leaf litter per linear 0.5 mile. Focus the search on a 12-foot wide transect (six feet on either side of the flagged line -- See Botanical Survey Methodology).

Microhabitat Focal Areas

The samples will be collected within selected concentrations of suitable microhabitat features encountered (intuitive control). These features include:

• Riparian areas, intermittent and ephemeral drainages, swales, coves, depressions

• Leaf litter accumulations along the sides of large cover (boulders and > 4 inch diameter logs)

• The dry-damp litter interface in open areas (>3 m away from large cover)

• Leaf litter accumulations at bases of tree trunks

Sampling and Processing

Each sample will be processed by thoroughly air drying the litter. Using a bright lamp, hand lens and sieve, thoroughly sort through the dry litter and remove snail specimens for identification.

Data

Identify micro-snail specimens to species. For each litter collection location, record in Excel format:

• Project Name

• Forest Service District

• County

• Collector’s Name

• Date of Collection

• Plant/Ecological Community

• Elevation

• Aspect

• Slope

• Substrate

• Abundance (number of specimens per species per sample)

• Latitude and Longitude, in decimal degrees

• Unique or predominant microhabitat features observed (for example, boulders, moss mats, swale, wet cliff, etc.)

For each location of TES and VC species, complete the attached Cherokee NF Rare Fauna Survey Form and attach an accurate map generated by GIS or other electronic mapping software.

Visual Searches - Transect

This method places more emphasis on larger-bodied snails, slugs and empty snail shells readily visible with the naked eye.

Microhabitat Focal Areas

Use an intuitive control method. After a quick reconnaissance of the project area, traverse a survey line that connects the best concentration of microhabitat features:

• Riparian areas, intermittent and ephemeral drainages, swales, coves, depressions

• Leaf litter accumulations along the sides of large cover (boulders and >4 inch diameter logs)

• The dry-damp litter interface in open areas (>3 m away from large cover)

• Examination of smooth-barked lower tree trunks up to eyesight level, especially trees larger than

14 inches diameter. Look under peeling bark. Check the ground around these trees for shells.

• Examination of logs by rolling back one or two moss mats growing on them, checking the underside of the moss and the exposed log. Upon visual examination, replace logs, rocks and moss mats to original position.

The survey line may have a zigzag appearance but should generally not exceed 20 feet in width.

Minimize the time spent walking and maximize time spent searching.

Season and Time of Day

Visual searches for snails and slugs may occur in fall until soil temperatures drop below approximately 32 degrees F, or until the ground is frozen. Spring surveys can resume when soil temperature remains above 32 degrees F and may continue through summer until the top soil layer is very dry. Air temperatures below 80 degrees F are preferred.

Duration

For stand-sized project areas < 10 acres, conduct a 20 minute cumulative survey (20 minutes by one person, 10 minutes each by two people, etc.). For stand-sized project areas > 10 acres, conduct at least one 20 minute cumulative survey or each 10 acres of project area. For very large project areas (i.e., proposed prescribed burn), conduct a field reconnaissance of the proposed project area and identify the site(s) with a concentration of microhabitat features (above). Conduct at least one 20 minute cumulative search within these selected areas. For linear areas, (bulldozer line, proposed road, proposed trail), focus the search on a 12-16 foot wide transect -- See Botanical Survey Methodology). Use intuitive control to achieve a thorough survey.

Data

Identify snail and slug specimens (live and empty shell) to species. For the starting point of each transect, record in Excel format:

• Project Name

• Forest Service District

• County

• Collector’s Name

• Date of Collection

• Plant/Ecological Community

• Elevation

• Aspect

• Slope

• Substrate

• Abundance (number of specimens per species per sample)

• Latitude and Longitude, in decimal degrees

• Unique or predominant microhabitat features observed (for example, boulders, moss mats, swale, wet cliff, etc.)

For each location of TES and VC species, complete the attached Cherokee NF Rare Fauna Survey Form and attach an accurate map generated by GIS or other electronic mapping software.

180 - Processing of Leaf Litter Bags Provided by the Cherokee National Forest and Identify Terrestrial Mollusk Within

Forest Service will provide 12 inch by 7 inch bags of leaf litter collected by Forest personnel. Contractor will process the contents of the bag by thoroughly air drying the litter. Using a bright lamp, hand lens and sieve, thoroughly sort through the dry litter and remove snail specimens for identification.

Data: Identify micro-snail specimens to species. For each litter collection location, record in Excel format:

• Label number of bag

• Abundance (number of specimens per species per sample)

For each location of TES and VC species, complete the attached Cherokee NF Rare Fauna Survey Form.

190 - Process Government-Furnished Snail Vials and Identify Terrestrial Mollusks Contained Within

The Government may require additonal snail samples to be identified. Any specimens collected by the government and sent to the contractor for identification will be subject to the same collection standards as described above.

The Government will attempt to include only one species per sample. One to several individuals (adults and juveniles) of what is thought to be the same species from one survey area would be included in a vial. Vial size is approximately 12 x 35 mm . Collected specimens must be identified to the species level with species lists included in the final reports. All data from the collection vials will also be recorded electronically in an excel spreadsheet, template will be provided. All specimens collected will become the property of the Forest Service and will be submitted in the properly completed collection packets with the final report.

200 - Reports/Contacts

Upon completion of all required field work on an item, the contractor shall prepare and submit a draft report for each area surveyed broken out by taxa group (i.e. botanical, terrestrial mollusk, etc.). The draft report will include all components of the final report, including any apendices, data sheets, etc. Maps showing survey routes for items 1A and 1B and collection points for snails and bryophytes shall be included within the draft report. A GIS shapefile of the documented EOR’s shall also be provided. An electronic copy of the draft report shall be submitted to the COR either by email or on electronic media (thumbdrive or similar). Final reports shall be similarly submitted, with the addition of a hardcopy, printed report being mailed to the COR.

Botanical reports shall be completed using the Botanical Survey Site Documentation Forms that include the following information:

1. Dates and person hours spent at each survey site.

2. Maps showing survey routes through each stand (as an appendix)

3. Detailed descriptions of vegetative communities present in each stand with listings of dominant species in each stratum. Descriptions should include nomenclature from the key to the vegetative communities of the Cherokee NF. Any species identified at the project site that is not listed on the survey form, should be added to the appropriate section of the form.

4. Maps showing precise locations of all identified TES and VC species, bryophyte collection sites, approximate boundaries of major vegetative communitiues, and any unique habitats such as wetlands and seeps or other identified rare communities.

5. Latitude and longitude in DECIMAL DEGREES of all identified TES and VC species, bryophyte collection sites, discrete infestations of target weed species, and any unique habitats such as wetlands and seeps or other identified rare communities.

6. Excel spreadsheet for EOR Plant Data with points numbered to correspond with EOR maps

(template will be provided).

7. Photographs of TES and VC species found

8. Excel spreadsheet with bryophyte data (template will be provided)

9. References

10. If in the contractor’s professional opinion a particular TES plant is likely to be present based on habitat associations, but was not found, this information shall also be provided. If deemed necessary, the contractor may recommend the site be re-visited at a specific time of year to make a positive determination for that species.

Terrestrial wildlife reports shall include the information specified in Terrestrial Fauna Species Survey Methodology, and:

11. Dates and person hours (by name) spent at each survey site.

12. Descriptions of vegetative communities present in each unit surveyed (see Botanical Report, above).

13. Maps showing precise locations of all identified TES and VC species, leaf litter collection sites, and unique habitats such as wetlands and seeps.

14. Latitude and longitude IN DECIMAL DEGREES of all identified TES and VC species, leaf litter collection sites, and unique habitats such as wetlands and seeps.

15. For each location of TES and VC species, complete the attached Cherokee NF Rare Fauna Survey

Form. Attach an accurate map generated with GIS or other electronic mapping software. These completed forms shall be included in two formats: 1) Within the report associated with the stand, road, etc. that the species was found in, and 2) All forms combined into one electronic file provided separately on a thumb drive or similar device

16. Photographs of TES and VC species found

17. References

300 – INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

310 – Inspection

Performance shall be inspected by the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) or his designated inspector in accordance with FAR Clause 52.212.4 (a), Contract Terms and Conditions-Commercial Items (Oct 2018) Inspection/Acceptance.

320 - Acceptance

Acceptance of the work shall be contingent upon approval of the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). FAR Clause 52.212.4 (a), Contract Terms and Conditions- Commercial Items (Oct 2018) Inspection/Acceptance.

330 - Draft Reports

Following completion of Task Order field work, contractor shall prepare and submit a report marked “DRAFT” to the Contracting Officer’s Representative. Draft report shall be reviewed by the COR within 15 business days of receipt. COR shall provide contractor with specific instructions for revision of the draft report, or accept the draft as presented. Draft report will be returned to contractor for revision or conversion to a final report. Contractor shall have 10 business days to make the revisions or convert the report to final status, and resubmit to COR. Final acceptance will be made upon completion and delivery of final report

400 – PAYMENT

410 - Measurement

All units of distance or area, as given in the Schedule of Items, reflect measurement on the horizontal, as taken from GIS maps, and for the purposes of this contract are considered actual and not an estimate.

Items 0003, 0004, & 0005 by themselves only require data to be compiled into tables, thus if ordered separately would not include any additional time for report generation.

Each item listed below (0001A, 0002A, etc.) represents a distinct task, each typically accomplished separately by a unique group of technical experts. The contractor should be capable of deploying multiple groups of technical experts simultaneously as ordered. Therefore, contract times for each item are not additive, rather, the longer of any one item represents the maximum contract time for an order.

Note: Same applies for each additional option year noted in schedule of items.

ITEM 0001A-D. Conduct Botanical Surveys: Contract Time* (**)

1. Stand-sized areas 30 acres / 1 day

2. Bulldozer lines 3.0 miles/ 1 day

3. Trails 3.0 miles/ 1 day

4. Roads 3.0 miles/ 1 day

ITEM 0002A-D. Conduct Terrestrial Mollusk Surveys: Contract Time* (**)

1. Stand-sized areas 30 acres / 1 day

2. Bulldozer lines 3.0 mile/ 1 day

3. Trails 3.0 mile / 1 day

4. Roads 3.0 mile / 1 day

ITEM 0003: Process Government Furnished Leaf Litter Bags Contract Time* (**) and Identify Terrestrial Mollusks:

1. 1-10 bags 30 days

2. 11-20 bags 45 days

ITEM 0004: Process Government Furnished Snail Vials Contract Time* (**) and Identify Terrestrial Mollusks:

1. 1-5 vials 1 day

2. More than 5 vials 5 vials/day

ITEM 0005: Process Government Furnished Bryophyte Contract Time* (**)

Packets and Identify Species:

1. 1-5 packets 1 day

2. More than 5 packets 5 packets/1 day

*(1 full day minimum. Any resulting fraction will be rounded forward to next full day).

420- Payments

Shall be made in accordance with FAR Clause 52.212-4 (i), Contract Terms and Conditions-Commercial Items (Oct 2018) Payments. Payment for 80% of the order may be made upon receipt and approval of the draft report by the COR. Final 20% balance will be paid upon receipt and approval of the final report and all appendicies by the COR. Invoices for payment must be submitted by contractor through the Invoice Processing Platform (https://www.ipp.fms.treas.gov/) for payment.

CONTRACT CLAUSES

52.252-2 Clauses Incorporated by Reference As prescribed in 52.107(b), insert the following clause:

Clauses Incorporated By Reference. (Feb 1998)

This contract incorporates one or more clauses 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. Also, the full text of a clause may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es):

https://www.acquisition.gov https://www.acquisition.gov/agar

(End of clause)

52.202-1 Definitions. (Nov 2013) 52.203-3 Gratuities. (Apr 1984) 52.203-8 Cancellation, Rescission, and Recovery of Funds for Illegal or Improper Activity.

(May 2014) 52.203-17 Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights and Requirement to Inform Employees of

Whistleblower Rights. (Apr 2014) 52.204-9 Personal Identity Verification of Contractor Personnel. (Jan 2011) 52.204-13 System for Award Management Maintenance. (Oct 2018) 52.204-18 Commercial and Government Entity Code Maintenance (July 2016) 52.204-19 Incorporation by Reference of Representations and Certifications. (Dec 2014) 52.204-21 Basic Safeguarding of Government Information Systems (Jun 2016) 52.211-16 Variation in Quantity. (Apr 1984) 52.212-4 Contract Terms and Conditions-Commercial Items. (Oct 2018) 52.223-2 Affirmative Procurement of Bio based Products under Service and Construction

Contracts. (Sep 2013) 52.223-5 Pollution Prevention and Right-to-Know Information. (May 2011) 52.223-6 Drug-Free Workplace. (May 2001) 52.228-5 Insurance – Work on a Government Installation. (Jan 1997) 52.229-3 Federal, State, and Local Taxes. (Feb 2013) 52.232-1 Payments. (Apr 1984) 52.232-8 Discounts for Prompt Payment. (Feb 2002) 52.232-11 Extras. (Apr 1984) 52.232-18 Availability of Funds. (Apr 1984) 52.232-23 Assignment of Claims. (May 2014) 52.232-39 Unenforceability of Unauthorized Obligations. (Jun 2013) 52.232-40 Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors. (Dec 2013) 52.233-1 Disputes. (May 2014) 52.236-7 Permits and Responsibilities. (Nov 1991) 52.237-2 Protection of Government Buildings, Equipment, and Vegetation. (Apr 1984) 52.242-13 Bankruptcy. (Jul 1995) 52.242-15 Stop-Work Order. (Aug 1989) 52-243-1 Changes – Fixed Price. (Aug 1987) 52.244-6 Subcontracts for Commercial Items. (Aug 2019) 52.245-1 Government Property. (Jan 2017) 52.245-9 Use and Charge. (Apr 2012) https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1064684 https://www.acquisition.gov/

52.253-1 Computer Generated Forms. (Jan 1991)

52.212-5 Contract Terms and Conditions Required to Implement Statutes or Executive Orders- Commercial Items.

As prescribed in 12.301(b) (4), insert the following clause:

Contract Terms and Conditions Required to Implement Statutes or Executive Orders-Commercial

Items (Oct 2019)

(a) The Contractor shall comply with the following Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses, which are incorporated in this contract by reference, to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial items:

(1) 52.203-19, Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (Jan 2017) (section 743 of Division E, Title VII, of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (Pub. L. 113-235) and its successor provisions in subsequent appropriations acts (and as extended in continuing resolutions)).

(2) 52.204-23, Prohibition on Contracting for Hardware, Software, and Services Developed or Provided by Kaspersky Lab and Other Covered Entities (Jul 2018) (Section 1634 of Pub. L.

115-91).

(3) 52.204-25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (Aug 2019) (Section 889 (a) (1) (A) of Pub. L. 115-232).

(4) 52.209-10, Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (Nov 2015).

(5) 52.233-3, Protest After Award (Aug 1996) (31 U.S.C. 3553).

(6) 52.233-4, Applicable Law for Breach of Contract Claim (Oct 2004) (Public Laws 108-77 and 108-78 (19 U.S.C. 3805 note)).

(b) The Contractor shall comply with the FAR clauses in this paragraph (b) that the Contracting Officer has indicated as being incorporated in this contract by reference to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial items:

[Contracting Officer check as appropriate.]

__ (1) 52.203-6, Restrictions on Subcontractor Sales to the Government (Sept 2006), with Alternate I (Oct 1995) (41 U.S.C. 4704 and 10 U.S.C. 2402).

__ (2) 52.203-13, Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (Oct 2015) (41 U.S.C. 3509)).

__ (3) 52.203-15, Whistleblower Protections under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (June 2010) (Section 1553 of Pub. L. 111-5). (Applies to contracts funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.)

X (4) 52.204-10, Reporting Executive Compensation and First-Tier Subcontract Awards (Oct 2018) (Pub. L. 109-282) (31 U.S.C. 6101 note).

__ (5) [Reserved].

(6) 52.204-14, Service Contract Reporting Requirements (Oct 2016) (Pub. L. 111-117, section 743 of Div. C).

https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-12-acquisition-commercial-items#i1113145 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i52_203-19 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#id189A70O0P1N https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#unique_44939065 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1062680 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1048661 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1048698 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1063319 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1063504 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1063607 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1064087 http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title31-section6101&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1064214

X (7) 52.204-15, Service Contract Reporting Requirements for Indefinite-Delivery Contracts (Oct 2016) (Pub. L. 111-117, section 743 of Div. C).

X (8) 52.209-6, Protecting the Government’s Interest When Subcontracting with Contractors Debarred, Suspended, or Proposed for Debarment. (Oct 2015) (31 U.S.C. 6101 note).

__ (9) 52.209-9, Updates of Publicly Available Information Regarding Responsibility Matters (Oct 2018) (41 U.S.C. 2313).

__ (10) [Reserved].

__ (11) (i) 52.219-3, Notice of HUBZone Set-Aside or Sole-Source Award (Nov 2011) (15 U.S.C.657a).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Nov 2011) of 52.219-3.

__ (12) (i) 52.219-4, Notice of Price Evaluation Preference for HUBZone Small Business Concerns (Oct 2014) (if the offeror elects to waive the preference, it shall so indicate in its offer) (15 U.S.C. 657a).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Jan 2011) of 52.219-4.

__ (13) [Reserved]

X (14) (i) 52.219-6, Notice of Total Small Business Set-Aside (Nov 2011) (15 U.S.C.644).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Nov 2011).

__ (iii) Alternate II (Nov 2011).

__ (15) (i) 52.219-7, Notice of Partial Small Business Set-Aside (June 2003) (15 U.S.C. 644).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Oct 1995) of 52.219-7.

__ (iii) Alternate II (Mar 2004) of 52.219-7.

__ (16) 52.219-8, Utilization of Small Business Concerns (Oct 2018) (15 U.S.C. 637 (d) (2) and (3)).

__ (17) (i) 52.219-9, Small Business Subcontracting Plan (Aug 2018) (15 U.S.C. 637 (d) (4))

__ (ii) Alternate I (Nov 2016) of 52.219-9.

__ (iii) Alternate II (Nov 2016) of 52.219-9.

__ (iv) Alternate III (Nov 2016) of 52.219-9.

__ (v) Alternate IV (Aug 2018) of 52.219-9

__ (18) 52.219-13, Notice of Set-Aside of Orders (Nov 2011) (15 U.S.C. 644 (r)).

X (19) 52.219-14, Limitations on Subcontracting (Jan 2017) (15 U.S.C.637 (a) (14)).

__ (20) 52.219-16, Liquidated Damages-Subcontracting Plan (Jan 1999) (15 U.S.C. 637 (d) (4)

(F) (i)).

__ (21) 52.219-27, Notice of Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Set-Aside (Oct 2019) (15 U.S.C. 657f).

X (22) 52.219-28, Post Award Small Business Program Rerepresentation (Jul 2013) (15 U.S.C. 632 (a) (2)).

__ (23) 52.219-29, Notice of Set-Aside for, or Sole Source Award to, Economically https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1064243 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1062590 http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title31-section6101&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1062651 http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title41-section2313&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057314 http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title15-section637a&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057314 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057352 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057352 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057393 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057419 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057419 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057419 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i52_219-8 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i52_219-9 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i52_219-9 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i52_219-9 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i52_219-9 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i52_219-9 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057715 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057730 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057758 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057823 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057874 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/content/part-52-solicitation-provisions-and-contract-clauses#i1057902

Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business Concerns (Dec 2015) (15 U.S.C. 637 (m)).

__ (24) 52.219-30, Notice of Set-Aside for, or Sole Source Award to, Women-Owned Small Business Concerns Eligible under the Women-Owned Small Business Program (Dec 2015) (15 U.S.C. 637 (m)).

X (25) 52.222-3, Convict Labor (June 2003) (E.O.11755).

X (26) 52.222-19, Child Labor-Cooperation with Authorities and Remedies (Oct 2019) (E.O.13126).

X (27) 52.222-21, Prohibition of Segregated Facilities (Apr 2015).

X (28) (i) 52.222-26, Equal Opportunity (Sept 2016) (E.O.11246).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Feb 1999) of 52.222-26.

(29) (i) 52.222-35, Equal Opportunity for Veterans (Oct 2015) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

__ (ii) Alternate I (July 2014) of 52.222-35.

X (30) (i) 52.222-36, Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (Jul 2014) (29 U.S.C.793).

__ (ii) Alternate I (July 2014) of 52.222-36.

(31) 52.222-37, Employment Reports on Veterans (Feb 2016) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

X (32) 52.222-40, Notification of Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act (Dec 2010) (E.O. 13496).

X (33) (i) 52.222-50, Combating Trafficking in Persons (Jan 2019) (22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O. 13627).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Mar 2015) of 52.222-50 (22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O. 13627).

(34) 52.222-54, Employment Eligibility Verification (Oct 2015). (Executive Order 12989).

(Not applicable to the acquisition of commercially available off-the-shelf items or certain other types of commercial items as…