Questions_and_Answers_for_Solicitation.docx

Questions and Answers for Solicitation #12569R18R0009 Huron Manistee Wildlife Habitat Improvement

1. Can we work during the winter on shrub cut-stumping, tree removals, piling and brushing? Winter is also less impactful to the soil The end dates for operating periods are tied to spending deadlines for specific types of funding. It is anticipated that optional items will have more flexibility which is why the operating period states that “unless otherwise specified in Task Orders. Expected performance period will be a minimum of 45 days between August 15 and March 15.”

1. Can we recommend alternative active ingredients for chemical invasive woody plant treatments?

Yes, alternative chemicals can be recommended. However, only certain chemicals are covered for use on the National Forest System lands included in the contract. Please ensure bid packages address completing work according to the original specifications as well as the alternative.

1. The foliar spray window is tight - can it be extended for certain species and efficacy?

The window is relatively short to ensure the mowed patches receiving herbicide application are in a particular stage of development when treated to optimize kill rate. It could be extended in some instances. The contract will be modified for Item 9 in regards to performance period to say “Herbicide treatment will occur between July 16 and July 31 unless otherwise specified in Task Orders.”

1. There is mention of some seeding equipment being provided to the contractor. Is a tractor also included with this? If not, can you provide more detail on seeding equipment, to ensure our tractor has the correct hp to run it?

A model Truax WF-64 drop style wheel driven 3 point metered broadcast seeder will be provided (see the attached photo). The contractor will need to provide a tractor with draw bar hook-up and pin preferably 40 hp range.

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