127EAX22Q0011 Solicitation.pdf

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7EAX

ALBUQUERQUE NM 87102-3498

333 BROADWAY BLVD SE

USDA-FS CSA SOUTHWEST 7

8167 CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BYCODE

X

X

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115310

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RFPIFB

10. THIS ACQUISITION ISCODE

RFQ

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

13b. RATING

NAICS:

SMALL BUSINESS

05/06/2022 0800 MT

04/22/2022

602-225-5330MICHAEL CARICO

(No collect calls)

INFORMATION CALL:

FOR SOLICITATION 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL TIMEb. TELEPHONE NUMBER a. NAME

4. ORDER NUMBER3. AWARD/ 6. SOLICITATION

127EAX22Q0011

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS 1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE OF

1 3 OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

TELEPHONE NO.

17a. CONTRACTOR/

FLAGSTAFF AZ 86004

1824 S THOMPSON ST

COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST SO

USDA FOREST SERVICE

15. DELIVER TO

ALBUQUERQUE NM 87102-3498

333 BROADWAY BLVD SE

9. ISSUED BY

7.

2. CONTRACT NO.

EFFECTIVE DATE

$8.00

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THIS CONTRACT IS A

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DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13a.

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

8(A)

USDA-FS CSA SOUTHWEST 7

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

Noxious/Invasive Weeds Chemical Application Services IDIQ on the Coconino & Kaibab National Forests

0001 Noxious/Invasive Weeds Chemical Application Services IDIQ on the Coconino & Kaibab National Forests Product/Service Code: F105 Product/Service Description: ENVIRONMENTAL

SYSTEMS PROTECTION- PESTICIDES SUPPORT

Continued ...

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

XX

DATED

MICHAEL E. CARICO

. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION (BLOCK 5),

INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE SET FORTH

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DELIVER

ARE

ARE

31c. DATE SIGNED

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ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY ADDITIONAL

SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED.

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

OFFER

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 2/2012)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

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AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

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30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR

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REF.

32e. MAILING ADDRESS OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

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ACCEPTED, AND CONFORMS TO THE CONTRACT, EXCEPT AS NOTED:

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RECEIVED INSPECTED

40. PAID BY39. S/R VOUCHER NUMBER38. S/R ACCOUNT NUMBER

37. CHECK NUMBER

FINALPARTIAL

36. PAYMENT

FINALPARTIAL

35. AMOUNT VERIFIED

CORRECT FOR

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COMPLETE

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42a. RECEIVED BY (Print)

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41a. I CERTIFY THIS ACCOUNT IS CORRECT AND PROPER FOR PAYMENT

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 2/2012) BACK

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

Delivery: 05/31/2023

Period of Performance: 06/01/2022 to 05/31/2023

1001 Noxious/Invasive Weeds Chemical Application

Services IDIQ on the Coconino & Kaibab National

Forests

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: F105

Product/Service Description: ENVIRONMENTAL

SYSTEMS PROTECTION- PESTICIDES SUPPORT

Period of Performance: 06/01/2023 to 05/31/2024

2001 Noxious/Invasive Weeds Chemical Application

Services IDIQ on the Coconino & Kaibab National

Forests

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: F105

Product/Service Description: ENVIRONMENTAL

SYSTEMS PROTECTION- PESTICIDES SUPPORT

Period of Performance: 06/01/2024 to 05/31/2025

3001 Noxious/Invasive Weeds Chemical Application

Services IDIQ on the Coconino & Kaibab National

Forests

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: F105

Continued ...

32f. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

3 2 of

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NAME OF OFFEROR OR CONTRACTOR

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CONTINUATION SHEET

REFERENCE NO. OF DOCUMENT BEING CONTINUED PAGE OF

(A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)

127EAX22Q0011

Product/Service Description: ENVIRONMENTAL

SYSTEMS PROTECTION- PESTICIDES SUPPORT

Period of Performance: 06/01/2025 to 05/31/2026

4001 Noxious/Invasive Weeds Chemical Application

Services IDIQ on the Coconino & Kaibab National

Forests

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: F105

Product/Service Description: ENVIRONMENTAL

SYSTEMS PROTECTION- PESTICIDES SUPPORT

Period of Performance: 06/01/2026 to 05/31/2027

NSN 7540-01-152-8067 OPTIONAL FORM 336 (4-86)

Sponsored by GSA

FAR (48 CFR) 53.110

COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES Solicitation Number: 127EAX22Q0011 Noxious Weeds Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

Schedule of Items

Base Year 06/01/2022 – 05/31/2023 Item No.

Description-Type of Treatment

Unit of Measure

Est Quantity

Price Per Acre

Total

0001 Truck or Tractor spraying

Acre 1500 $ $

0002 ATV or UTV spraying

Acre 1500 $ $

0003 Backpack or Pack Animal Spraying

Acre 1500 $ $

Option Period One 06/01/2023 – 05/31/2024

No.

Description-Type of Treatment

Unit of Measure

Est Quantity

Price Per Acre

Total

1001 Truck or Tractor spraying

Acre 1500 $ $

1002 ATV or UTV spraying

Acre 1500 $ $

1003 Backpack or Pack

Option Period Two 06/01/2024 – 05/31/2025

No.

Description-Type of Treatment

Unit of Measure

Est Quantity

Price Per Acre

Total

2001 Truck or Tractor spraying

Acre 1500 $ $

2002 ATV or UTV spraying

Acre 1500 $ $

2003 Backpack or Pack

Option Period Three 06/01/2025 – 05/31/2026

No.

Description-Type of Treatment

Unit of Measure

Est Quantity

Price Per Acre

Total

3001 Truck or Tractor spraying

Acre 1500 $ $

3002 ATV or UTV spraying

Acre 1500 $ $

3003 Backpack or Pack

Option Period Four 06/01/2026 – 05/31/2027

No.

Description-Type of Treatment

Unit of Measure

Est Quantity

Price Per Acre

Total

4001 Truck or Tractor spraying

Acre 1500 $ $

4002 ATV or UTV spraying

Acre 1500 $ $

4003 Backpack or Pack

B.3.4 Capacity to complete the work: FOLLOWING INFORMATION MUST BE

PROVIDED

List Equipment/Personnel – may attach additional sheet if needed. Please include the following information that is applicable: number available. Make/model/year/capabilities (gallons of water carrying capacity), indicate if equipment has a boom sprayer, availability to treat weeds during peak season (June and July).

Truck/tractor:____________________________________________________________

ATV/UTV:______________________________________________________________

Backpack apparatus:

Backpack Personnel:

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

Pack Animals:________________________________________________________________

Water hauling apparatus and capacity (gal.):___________________________________________________________________

SECTION III: THE PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

INTRODUCTION

Background

The Forest Service is in need of Noxious or Invasive Weed Chemical Application services to treat various populations of designated Noxious or Invasive Weeds. The purpose of this contract is to secure designated Noxious or Invasive Weeds Chemical Application Services in a manner that ensures elimination and/or control of designated Noxious or Invasive Weeds. The services secured with this contract will focus on the need to provide adequate Noxious or Invasive weed Chemical Application techniques during a period of time when environmental conditions are most favorable to insure effective treatment of designated Noxious or Invasive Weeds. The contractor shall provide any and all labor, equipment, supplies, services, permits, licenses, certifications, supervision, transportation, operating supplies and incidentals necessary to perform Noxious Weed chemical applications to treat various populations of designated Noxious Weeds. The purpose of this contract is to secure designated services in a manner that ensures proper application of designated Noxious Weeds. The chemical applications should occur during a period of time when environmental conditions are most favorable to ensure successful designated Noxious Weed treatment.

Scope of Contract

The Contractor shall furnish all labor, equipment, supervision, transportation, supplies (including chemicals), and incidentals to perform all application necessary for Noxious or Invasive Weeds Chemical Application services on the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests. The contract includes chemical treatment of Noxious or Invasive Weeds. All aspects of the work program shall be performed in an organized, systematic manner to assure services shall be performed over the entire unit.

Location and Description

Locations and descriptions are unknown at this time. Will be identified on each task order. Specific locations, maps, and unit description data for treatment areas will be provided on each task order

The acres to be sprayed each year range from a minimum of 1 acre to a maximum of 5000 acres.

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

The Chemical Application operations will be prohibited when:

A. Wind velocity exceeds ten (10) miles per hour.

B. Relative Humidity readings are LESS than 25%.

C. Frost, snow, or ice covers target plants.

D. Precipitation (rain or snow) is expected to be received in quantities sufficient to wash chemicals off plants within three hours of application, or when precipitation is sufficient to cause chemicals to be washed into open water sources.

E. Emergency closures such as Fire Restrictions.

F. Non-compliance G. In areas near live water and riparian areas, will be restricted to those herbicides registered for use in those areas.

H. The herbicide is being used in a manner inconsistent with its labeling

List and Description of Units:

Will be identified in each task order.

Technical Specifications:

Truck or Tractor Spraying – Generally applies to roadside spraying, which is defined as extending 35 feet on each side of the road centerline; one mile of roadside spraying is equal to 8.5 acres. Roads will be retreated as funding is available. The roadside spraying scheduled for herbicide treatment consists of both maintained and unmaintained, gravel and dirt system roads. The contractor may use a truck, tractor, or ATV. Many roadsides are nearly weed-free and will only need spot treatments. While most weeds are found on the road edge, it is not unusual to have to pull hose off the main road surface to spray cut and fill-slopes.

Some roads have restricted seasonal vehicle access or yearlong vehicle closures. The contractor will receive authorization to treat weeds behind these closures with vehicles as needed. The contractor may be asked to time treatment to avoid conflicts with other users in particular treatment areas.

OHV – Off Highway Vehicles only (such as an ATV or UTV) will treat weeds in areas with physical limitations (width of trail, rocks, and slopes too steep for truck), travel restriction, or other resource concerns. Weed infestations to be treated range from widely scattered to dense patches in meadows, and near riparian areas. When treating weeds on trails using an ATV, trails will be sprayed 35 feet either side of the trail and one mile of trail equals 8.5 acres of spraying. Annual acres to treat are estimates only and will vary with available funding.

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

Non-Motorized – Backpack or horse spraying includes treatment of areas that are too steep to access by motorized equipment or where motorized vehicle use is not acceptable.

These are typically a short walk less than 1/2 mile, and some of the sites are very steep and rocky on slopes in excess of 40 percent.

At a minimum, 90% of the weeds treated (each species needs to have this level of treatment effectiveness) and acreage claimed will show mortality or physical signs of herbicide treatment such as wilting, curling or discoloration. Contract inspections will allow sufficient time for target plants to exhibit herbicide effects. If treatments are less than 90% effective then the contractor shall re-treat the area (and will not be paid for the second application).

If treatment effectiveness is obviously 90 % or better, then use ocular estimate and record observations of effectiveness for each weed species.

If treatment effectiveness appears to be less than 90% then use the following method to monitor effectiveness. Establish a targeted random sample by placing survey transects in areas (polygons) that contain least 1 % weeds and with similar vegetation. The polygon can be a subset of the total treatment area (lump according to individual species or unique weed density levels: <10 %, 11-50%, > 51%). Make a map of the polygon, transect and quadrat locations for the contract records file.

Transect installation: From the center of each polygon, install four transects in cardinal directions, using a compass. They can extend to the perimeters of the polygons if they are less than 600 feet in length or width, or they can be 300 ft in length, as a maximum.

Quadrat Installation: The quadrats are ½ meter square in size. There are four quadrats per polygon if the survey area is less than 10 acres (double the number of quadrats if the polygon is between 10 and 100 acres).

To ensure random quadrat placement along each transect, use one die if the polygon is less than 50 feet and select a number after rolling the die. If the polygon is larger, use two dice. Use the number generated (1-6 in small polygons, 2-12 in large polygons) as the random start distance. Next, divide the transect by 2 (e.g., use 150 feet if transect is 300 feet) and place the quadrat at 150 feet, PLUS the random number (from the dice toss) that distance from center.

EXAMPLE: The transect is 300 feet long. Half that distance is150 feet. Random throw of dice = 7. Distance from center is 150 + 7 = 157 feet.

Do this calculation for each of the four transects. At the designated distance, place the ½ meter quadrat next to the graduated side of the tape (lower left corner of the quadrat at the “top” of the number).

Count the number of live and dead stems if rhizomatous, and individual plants if not, for each weed species in the quadrat. The counting units are LIVE WEEDS and DEAD WEEDS. Don’t count native plants.

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

If there is a high density of weeds (either live, dead or both) and they are uniformly dense throughout the quadrat, you can subdivide the quadrat and count a subset.

EXAMPLE: divide the quadrat into two, count weeds in one-half of the quadrat: LIVE:

50, DEAD: 40.

This equals 100 (50 x 2) live weed stems (individuals) and 80 (40 x 2) dead weed stems (individuals).

Avoid broadcast herbicide application (use spot treatment instead) where target species occur only sporadically in a dominant cover of non-target plants.

Avoid herbicide injury to trees and other woody species.

The choice of herbicide and surfactants is up to the contractor, however its use is subject to prior approval by the Government. A variety of herbicides can be used, but are limited to the following chemicals: amitrole, atrazine, bromacil, chlorsulfuron, clopyralid, ‘2,4- D’, dicamba, dichlobenil, diuron, glyphosate, hexazinone, imazapyr, mefluidide, metsulfuron methyl, picloram, prometon, simazine, sulfometuron methyl, tebuthiuron, triclopyr, and trifluralin, aminopyralid, and aminocyclopyralid.

Carrier: Water shall be used as a carrier and the contractor needs to supply. The Forest Service will help to identify possible sources of water at nearest Forest Service Administrative Sites. Contractor will be responsible for hauling water

For some remote treatment areas (e.g., North Kaibab Ranger District), Forest Service may provide water via portable tank from which contractor can draft water. Contractor will be responsible for providing water pump.

Dye/Marker: A water-based dye or other approved color marking system will be used at the direction of the Forest Service to further identify target species and area that have been sprayed. Dye amount in the herbicide must be visible on the sprayed sites for a minimum of 24 hours after application.

Treatments areas often require changing herbicide to meet the requirements and restrictions of the product labels, to be effective on the weeds present, to be responsive to different site conditions and to minimize damage to non-target vegetation. Do not use Tordon within 50 feet of water or sub-irrigated land; only use herbicides and surfactant approved for aquatic use in these areas. Do not spray herbicide into, over or on water. It is illegal to use a herbicide in a manner inconsistent with the label's instructions

Off-road treatment may be by UTV/ATV (or similar low impact vehicle), backpack sprayer, or pack animal. Treatment method will not create any new permanent wheeled tracks in the soil. Treatment activity and techniques will not contribute to measurable or noticeable erosion, extensive or intensive (localized) soil disturbance or long term physical damage to desirable vegetation.

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

Monitoring and Record Keeping Requirements for Herbicide Treatments

Federal and State laws require record keeping for all applications of pesticides on public lands. The Contractor shall provide complete, accurate, and detailed records throughout the duration of the contract and provide the Government with legible, readable copies of such records on Forest Service provided forms (attached) see Section J. The contractor must submit application records to the Contracting Officer Representative within 5 days of applying herbicide to the site.

Upon completion of each project or unit of work on the contract, and prior to or accompanying each invoice, the Contractor shall provide the Government with herbicide application records that includes the types and rates of herbicide mixtures used for each area treated, environmental factors (wind speeds and temperatures during applications) and areas treated under the task order), and spatial data (shapefiles) of each area treated.

The Contractor will notify the COR within 48 hours of discovery and record GPS locations of all new weed species observed.

If new weed patches are found that are not on the Government provided maps, the Contractor needs to negotiate with the Contracting Officer prior to treatment of any area not listed in the Task Order. The contractor shall not spray any area not specifically identified in the Task Order without direction of the Contracting Officer.

Safety Requirements and General Provisions Herbicide pouring and mixing operations will not occur within 150 feet of any open water source.

Signs will be posted at access points to let the general public know to avoid contact with herbicides. List the date of treatment, the re-entry period, the herbicide used, and a name and phone number of who to call for more information.

Spray drift shall be avoided. Do not spray when winds exceed 10 miles per hour.

No spraying shall be done inside ditches containing water (do not spray into, on or over water).

Spraying shall not occur while it is raining or snowing. The Contractor shall take all reasonable precautions to avoid spraying if it appears that precipitation sufficient to wash herbicide(s) off target species or into open water may occur within 3 hours after herbicide application or as cautioned by the herbicide label.

Buffer strips may be designated by the Forest Service during operations to protect rare plants, amphibians, or water-influenced areas. No spraying shall occur within these designated buffer strips.

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

When spraying herbicide to the water edge, spray with your back to the water. Spray away from the water, not towards it.

The Contractor shall insure that containers or tanks used for herbicide application are not washed out within 150 feet of open water: springs, ditches, streams, ponds, or lakes. The contractor will follow all State, Federal and label regulations involving rinsing and washing procedures.

The Forest Service is not responsible for the safety of the Contractor nor any operators or assistants. The Contractor shall provide and maintain work procedures which will safeguard the public and Government personnel, as well as the Contractor’s own personnel. The Contractor shall be expected to use reasonable safety procedures and equipment while operating on National Forest lands.

The Contractor and all application personnel are required to review, understand, and follow the herbicide label recommendations, requirements, precautions, and prohibitions.

The Contractor shall carry and have within easy access during all spraying operations, a label and MSDS for the herbicides being used.

The Contractor will remove all herbicide containers from the National Forest and dispose of them in accordance with all local, state and federal requirements.

All equipment will be in good mechanical condition and will be inspected prior to work.

The spray pattern, application rates and calibration shall be checked before beginning the job and at least once during the project or more frequently if deemed necessary by the Forest Service. Calibration calculations shall be provided to the Forest Service as requested during the operating season. The contractor will inspect equipment daily for leaks and suspend operations until all leaks are repaired.

Herbicides and additives shall be transported in a manner that will prevent spills; and in a compartment that is isolated from food, clothing and safety equipment.

Herbicide application operations will not occur when any one of the following conditions exists in a treatment area:

1. Wind velocity exceeds ten (10) miles per hour.

2. Relative Humidity readings are less than 25%.

3. Frost, snow, or ice covers target plants.

4. Emergency closures such as Fire Restrictions.

5. When in non-compliance with the contract provisions

The Contractor will be responsible for following the Spill Plan included with this solicitation. The Contractor will notify the CO or COR immediately if a spill occurs.

Compliance with this plan is mandatory. All spray operations and herbicide transport vehicles will have standard adequate spill containment and cleanup materials and

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests equipment. Operators will be trained in responding to and dealing with any spills of herbicide.

The contractor will keep spray rigs and equipment appearing neat, professional and organized. Dye stains on the rigs, tanks, and employee clothing will be kept to a minimum by regular cleaning. It is important during this project to project a professional image and to demonstrate that the herbicide applications are performed carefully, professionally and without spillage.

Definitions:

Arizona State Applicators License: Vendor must have a valid Arizona State applicators license

ADA: Arizona Department of Agriculture

Application: Means which or interval of chemical treatment of a given area.

Boom attachments: Equipment attachments with spray nozzles to spray evenly in treatment areas

Backpack sprayers: Spray equipment capable of being carried on a person’s back, with handgun for spot treatment

Buffers: Specified areas of no treatment around sensitive areas.

Chemical Treatment: Action of applying specific chemicals (herbicides to unwanted plants).

Contract Time. See Period of Performance.

Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). The COR is the on-site contract administrator for the Contracting Officer (CO). The duties and responsibilities of a COR are defined in the letter of designation issued by the Contracting Officer.

Delivery point. The point identified for delivery of Chemical Application supplies and other supplies will be the site at which chemical application is needed.

Handgun Attachments: Equipment attachment that is hand operated for spot spray treatment

Hand treatment: Chemical treatment of a target areas using backpack/ handgun application of chemicals.

Herbicides: Chemicals used to treat unwanted plants (target plants)

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

Invasive Species: Defined as a species that is nonnative (or alien) to the ecosystem under consideration and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm to human health (Executive Order 13112).

Non-motorized equipment: Equipment powered by means other than a motor

Noxious Weed: A legal term applied to plants regulated by Federal and State laws, such as plants designated as noxious weeds by the Secretary of Agriculture or by the responsible State official. Noxious weeds generally possess one or more of the following characteristics: aggressive and difficult to manage, poisonous, toxic, parasitic, a carrier or host of serious insects or disease, and being not native or new or not common to the Unites States or parts thereof. (Forest Service Manual 2080.5, Federal Noxious Weed Act of 1974, PL 93-629, as amended).

Period of Performance: All calendar days allowed for completion of contract work.

Includes all days of the week including weekends and holidays.

Primary Species: Several of the Noxious or Invasive weed species to be treated are leafy spurge, spotted knapweed, Russian knapweed, diffuse knapweed, Dalmatian toadflax, yellow starthistle, Scotch thistle, bull thistle, cheatgrass, and Japanese brome. Other Noxious or Invasive weed species as identified may also be treated.

Quality Assurance. The actions taken by the Government to assess the Contractor’s results to determine that they meet contract requirements. Procedures as outlined in the following will be adhered to. FSH 2109.14 (Pesticide-Use Management and Coordination Handbook, CHAPTER 50 (Quality Control Monitoring and Post-Treatment Evaluation)

Quality Control. Those actions taken by a Contractor to control the production of outputs to ensure that they conform to the contract requirements. The methods for inspecting for quality control are described in the Contractor’s Quality Control Plan (QCP).

Riparian areas: Areas within a water-influence zone, characterized by different vegetation than dry sites

Soil-saturating Rain: Receiving sufficient moisture so that the upper levels of the soil profile are totally filled with water

Soil Surface: The area of soil exposed to direct sunlight

Single Treatment: One time per year application of chemical herbicides on a target area.

Varied Topography: Treatment will be in areas ranging from relatively flat meadow bottoms to steep slopes.

Vehicle-mounted sprayers: Spray equipment mounted on some type of vehicle

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

Wilderness Areas: Congressionally designated lands with special management requirements.

Government Furnished Property and Services:

The property and services that will be provided by the Government are as follows:

Item Description Where, When, How

3.1 Water Water will be available at no

charge to the contractor.

Contractor will be responsible for water transport from the source to the job site.

Water will be available at the Peaks, Mormon Lake, Happy Jack, Blue Ridge, Williams, Tusayan, and North Kaibab (Fredonia and Big Springs) Forest Service Administrative sites.

3.2 Final

Environmental Impact Statement for Integrated Treatment of Noxious or Invasive Weeds on the Coconino, Kaibab, and Prescott National Forests.

Gives Direction on application of herbicides.

Herbicides will be applied in accordance with label directions and meet all requirements for legal application

Provided upon request from the COR.

3.3. Project Maps Maps of Chemical

Application areas to be provided

Attachment D

3.4. Access Roads The Government will provide

access to the project areas.

Maps will be provided by the

COR.

Contractor Work Requirements and Standards:

Orders and delivery:

All work under this contract will be awarded under separate Delivery Orders.

Contractor shall provide commercial services for the Chemical Application of Noxious or Invasive Weeds for the required acreage.

Chemicals for treatment:

The Contractor shall provide all chemicals required to complete this project. The exception will be for treatment of leafy spurge, where the Forest Service will provide the Plateau herbicide and adjuvants.

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

Chemical Handling and Care:

The Contractor must present ADA Pesticide Applicators License and certificate of insurance:

Vendors must meet all regulations established by the Arizona Department of Agriculture (ADA) for licensed pesticide contractors.

Chemical Application Instructions: Vendor will be provided a schedule of dates and times when Chemical Application is expected at each site after award of the contract.

Vendor will apply only those herbicides that are approved for use by the Forest Service. Herbicides will be applied in accordance with label directions and meet all requirements for legal applications as well as those listed in the Final Environmental Impact Statement for Integrated Treatment of Noxious or Invasive or Invasive Weeds on the Coconino, Kaibab, and Prescott National Forests.

Chemical Application Inspection: Vendor must provide a quality control plan that outlines inspection procedures. The contractor must provide documentation and notify the COR after completing a treatment and inspection on a site before continuing to the next site. These procedures will be required in order to proceed with the next treatment.

Safety: Vendor will have adequate and appropriate equipment to take on and safely complete project. This includes adequate personal protective gear and first aid equipment to provide for the safety of the applicator and employees. All equipment used by the vendor will be in good working order and safe to complete the project. If at any time, unsafe conditions are discovered by the Contract COR, activities related to the problem will cease until these conditions no longer exist.

Contractor shall not alter the chemicals:

It is a violation of Federal Law to use Herbicides in a manner inconsistent with its labeling.

Contractor shall take precautions to keep chemicals safe during the Chemical Application operation

Contractor shall be aware of environmental hazards which affect chemical Chemical Application:

Environmental Hazards are described in the following Forest Service publications: FSH

2109.14 (Pesticide-Use Management and Coordination Handbook, Chapter 40 (Storage, transportation, and Disposal) and Chapter 60 – Spills, Incidents, and Accidents) (http://fsweb.wo.fs.fed.us/directives/fsh/2109.14/). In addition, the Final Environmental Statement for Integrated Treatment of Noxious or Invasive Weeds (2004), Appendix B, gives direction on the following: Design Features, Best Management Practices, Required http://fsweb.wo.fs.fed.us/directives/fsh/2109.14/

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

Protection Measures and Mitigation Measures.

(http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/nepa/index.shtml#Jan31.1)

Quality Control:

Contractor shall prepare a Quality Control Plan as described in Section E. Contractor shall inspect the work in accordance with the accepted Quality Control Plan.

Work Plan and Schedule:

The Contractor shall prepare a work plan and schedule that demonstrates that work will be completed within the performance period. The Contractor shall provide a general plan with the technical proposal. A supplementary plan and schedule shall be provided after issuance of a task order, but at least 10 calendar days before start work.

Keep a daily log containing hours worked, date of application, site, weather conditions, herbicide used, formulation and approximate area treated.

Update the work plan as work is in progress to account for changes; and the updated work plan may be accepted by the Contracting Officer.

Prior to commencement of work, the Contractor shall attend a meeting to discuss the contract terms, work performance requirements, and safety. Also at this meeting such items as work progress schedule, quality control, camping/worksite plan, and fire prevention plans shall be finalized in writing.

Key Personnel:

The Contractor shall assign to this contract the key personnel identified in their technical proposal and that list may include the following:

CONTRACTOR’S REPRESENTATIVE

FOREPERSON

INSPECTOR

The Contractor shall make no substitutions of key personnel without notifying the Contracting Officer within a reasonable timeframe and in advance, and shall submit justification (including proposed substitutions) in sufficient detail to permit evaluation of the impact on the contract. Proposed substitutes should have comparable qualifications to those of the persons being replaced.

The contract will be modified to reflect any approved changes of key personnel:

The Contractor’s on-site representative shall be fully conversant and literate in the English language and shall be in the work area whenever work is in progress.

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

Crew Safety:

The Contractor shall consider and address crew safety and provide a Safety Plan consistent with FAR 52.236.13 Accident Prevention Alt. I recognizing that some areas are in areas of snags and fire burned trees.

Safety Plan:

The Contractor shall prepare a Safety Plan which addresses the specific hazards of the work site, and shall include working in areas of dead trees and falling debris. The Contractor shall identify the specific conditions that s/he considers is a hazard. The Safety Plan shall also address the personal protective equipment and mitigating measures the Contractor will do to increase safety on the worksite.

Unsuitable conditions:

Whenever it is determined that environmental or physical conditions become unsuitable for herbicide application, the Contractor shall move to another area identified by the Contractor and agreed to by the Contracting Officer, or take other mitigating actions to improve the situation agreed to by the Contracting Officer. When there is no acceptable mitigating practice and no other area is available, the Contracting Officer shall suspend work and stop the contract time. When conditions are again suitable, the Contracting Officer will issue an oral Resume Work Order and confirm that order in writing.

Standards:

C.5.1. Mandatory Standard:

Regulations of the ADA, and 2004 Record of Decision for the Final Environmental Impact Statement for Integrated Treatment of Noxious or Invasive or Invasive Weeds on the Coconino, Kaibab, and Prescott National Forests.

C.6. Fire Control:

C.6.1. Contractor’s Responsibility for Contractor-Caused Fires:

The Contractor, whether or not directed by the Forest Service, shall immediately extinguish, without expense to the Government, all fires on or in the vicinity of the project which are caused by Contractor's employees, whether set directly or indirectly as a result of Contractor operations. The Contractor may be held liable for all damages and costs of additional labor, subsistence, equipment, supplies, and transportation resulting from fires set or caused by the Contractor's employees or resulting from contract operations.

C.6.2. Fire Protection Requirements - Fire Plan:

At all times during closed fire season period, as specified by State law, the Contractor shall comply with each of the following provisions to the extent applicable to his operation under the contract.

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

C.6.2.1. Fire Tools:

The Contractor will provide for each employee in the contract area at least one approved handtool of a type appropriate in the contract area, such as shovel, pulaski, or ax. Tools required and furnished under C.6.2.1.1 below shall count toward fulfillment of the above requirement. Where additional tools, beyond those required below, are to be provided, the Contractor shall seal such tools in one or more boxes painted red and marked "Tools for Fire Only." All tools required herein shall be kept sharp and in good serviceable condition and maintained at locations to be designated by the Forest Service.

C.6.2.1.1. Fire Extinguishers and Tools on Mobile or Stationary Equipment:

Each unit of powered equipment used in connection with this contract, including automobiles, trucks, tractors, etc., shall be equipped with serviceable tools and fire extinguishers as follows:

a. One - fire extinguisher, dry chemical type of not less than 2-1/2 pound capacity with 4 BC or higher rating.

b. One - shovel, round point #0 lady or equal.

c. One - ax, 2 pounds or over, 26-inch minimum length, or one pulaski.

d. One - water container (at least 1-gallon capacity), not required with stationary equipment.

C.6.5.1.2. Smoking:

Smoking shall not be permitted within the contract area except on surfaced or dirt roads, at landings, within closed vehicles, in camps, or at other posted places, and shall never be allowed while working or traveling on foot. Smoking may also be curtailed based on restrictions placed on the general public and contractors due to fire danger.

C.6.5.1.3. Fire Plan:

Prior to initiating work on the contract area, during the closed fire season period, a fire prevention and suppression plan will usually be prepared. The Contractor and the Forest Service will jointly prepare this plan. Such plan shall include a detailed list of men and equipment at the Contractor's disposal for implementing the plan. The fire plan shall also specify additional measures and/or special requirements, such as:

Smoking and campfire restrictions, Powersaw restrictions and Industrial Fire Plan "C" (Hoot Owl) Camping restrictions, Area closures, and Forest closures, depending on what is necessary during periods of critical fire weather conditions.

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

C. 7. Performance requirements summary:

The following describes the major items in the contract with the incentives and deductions for the work described. Items below are included here as requirements.

Work Statement

Performance Standard

Gov’t Method of Assessment

Incentives and Deductions for meeting the Standard

Noxious or Invasive Weed Chemical Application

Vendor will spray only those herbicides that are approved for use by the Forest Service, which include:

amitrole, atrazine, bromacil, chlorsulfuron, clopyralid, ‘2,4- D’, dicamba, dichlobenil, diuron, glyphosate, hexazinone, imazapyr, mefluidide, metsulfuron methyl, picloram, prometon, simazine, sulfometuron methyl, tebuthiuron, triclopyr, and trifluralin.

COR and inspector will monitor operations and conduct random samples.

The contractor’s performance in following label requirements and restrictions contained in this solicitation will affect the performance evaluation as either a positive or negative incentive

• If Contractor meets the standard, no deduction.

• If Contractor does not meet the standard and/or take corrective action, the Government may assess liquidated or actual damages (Section G), and provide adverse performance evaluation.

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

Work Statement

Performance Standard

Gov’t Method of Assessment

Incentives and Deductions for meeting the Standard

Quality Control C4.3.

Contractor maintains good quality control on all aspects of operation including Chemical Application methods.

Actions not consistent with contract specifications are corrected as per the Quality Control Plan.

COR or inspector randomly sample and observe operations.

• The quality of Quality Control provided by the Contractor will be reflected in the performance evaluation as either a positive or negative incentive.

• If the Contractor fails to meet standards, work may be suspended or the Contractor put in Default for failure to take corrective action immediately and result in adverse performance evaluation.

Contractor’s plot inspections are +/-5% of Government’s quality.

Inspection completed to meet timeframes.

COR or inspector randomly sample and observe Contractor inspection.

Reviews Contractor inspection sheets daily.

• The ability of the Contractor to meet the standard will be reflected in the performance evaluation as either a positive or negative incentive.

• When Contractor’s plot inspections meet standards, no deduction.

• If quality does not meet standard, deduction (Section G) and/or additional costs to the Government will be assessed.

Work Plan and Schedule C.4.4.

Work meets schedule as per the accepted work plan.

Chemical Application operations will not occur when:

Wind velocity exceeds ten (10) miles per hour.

Relative Humidity readings are LESS than 25%.

COR and inspector conduct periodic monitoring.

• The Contractor’s ability to maintain the work schedule and complete work on schedule will be reflected in the performance evaluation as either positive or negative incentive.

• Work not completed on schedule is subject to Default and may result in assessment of actual costs.

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

Work Statement

Performance Standard

Gov’t Method of Assessment

Incentives and Deductions for meeting the Standard

Frost, snow, or ice covers target plants.

Precipitation (rain or snow) is expected to be received in quantities sufficient to wash chemicals off plants within three hours of application, or when precipitation is sufficient to cause chemicals to be washed into open water sources.

Emergency closures such as Fire Restrictions.

Non-compliance

In areas near live water and riparian areas, will be restricted to those herbicides registered for use in those areas.

The herbicide is being used in a manner inconsistent with its labeling

SECTION D--PACKAGING AND MARKING

{For this Solicitation, there are NO clauses in this Section}

SECTION E--INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

E.1 FAR 52.252-2 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/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/agar

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (48 CFR CHAPTER 1) CLAUSES

52.246-4 Inspection of Services--Fixed-Price (AUG 1996)

E.2 Treatment Area Inspection The Contracting Officer Representative or designated Inspectors will inspect the treatment sites within 10 days of being notified by the Contractor that the areas are ready for inspection. Enough time needs to lapse between the treatment and the inspection for the plants to develop signs of herbicide damage (wilting, color change, or stunted growth) which is usually 2 to 3 weeks. Areas treated in late fall may not show herbicide effects until the following summer, by June 30th. The work for a task order will not be accepted until 90 percent of the weeds show sign of herbicide damage.

SECTION F--DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

F.1 FAR 52.252-2 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):

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (48 CFR CHAPTER 1) CLAUSES

52.242-15 Stop Work Order (AUG 1989) 52.242-17 Government Delay of Work (APR 1984)

F.2 AGAR 452.211-75 Effective Period of Contract (FEB 1988) The effective period of this contract is from date of contract award through May 31, 2023. This contract will consist of a base year, contract award date through May 31, 2023 and four one-year option periods.(Total period 06/01/2022 – 05/31/2027

SECTION G--CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

G.1 AGAR 452.215-73 Post Award Conference (NOV 1996) A post award conference with the successful offeror is required. It will be scheduled at an agreed upon date between the Contractor, Contracting Officer and Contracting Officer’s Representative and at an agreed upon location prior to beginning work on the first task order.

G.2 GOVERNMENT-FURNISHED PROPERTY

Government Furnished Property and Services are included in Section C.3.

G.3 CONTRACTOR INVOICING FOR HERBICIDE, SURFACTANTS AND

DYES.

The Contractor shall submit with their invoice a copy of the paid invoice from their supplier of the herbicide, surfactant and/or dye indicating the cost of each product. The supplier’s invoice will determine the rate at which the Contractor will be reimbursed for products used on this contract. The supplier’s invoice must contain supplier’s name, address, must indicate kind, price per unit, number of units and be dated. The contractor’s invoice shall indicate the quantities of each herbicide, surfactant and/or dye that was used on each unit. The Contractor’s invoice for herbicides used must be submitted at the same time as the invoice for acres treated.

G.4 ORDERING OFFICIALS

Any warranted Contracting Officer assigned to Region 3 is hereby authorized to issue task orders so long as the project area is within the boundaries of a covered unit of the contract.

SECTION J- ATTACHMENTS

1. Coconino & Kaibab Weeds Project Area Map 1 Page

2. Pesticide Applicator Guidance 1 Page

3. Wage Determination AZ 1977-0211 Rev 65 03152022 4 Pages

4. Experience Questionnaire 2 Pages

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

SECTION H--SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

H.1 CONTRACTOR REQUIRED LICENSE/PERMITS/ABILITIES

H.1.1 BEFORE work may begin on this project, the contractor SHALL provide the documentation required in this section prior to beginning work.

1. A valid Restricted Use pesticide license from the State of Arizona.

2. Proof of Worker’s Compensation Coverage or Contractor’s Exemption Certificate

3. Must have an approved Spill Plan, which includes a spill containment plan and equipment necessary to contain a spill as listed in Section J.

H.1.2 All contractor personnel must have the ability to recognize all Arizona State-listed noxious weeds in all their stages of development, and those listed under Section C.2.

H.2 Task Order Award and Administration The Issuing Contracting Officer will award the Task Order which will include additional specifications including:

H.2.1 Location H.2.2 Herbicide H.2.3 Application Method H.2.4 Performance Period H.2.5 Contracting Officer’s Representative for project information

Contract performance evaluations are required on every Task Order issued.

H.3 Weed Control To mitigate the spread of noxious weeds, all equipment entering the site shall be cleaned thoroughly. Equipment will be inspected by the Contracting Officer's Representative prior to entrance onto Federal lands. Equipment shall proceed directly to the job site following the inspection.

H.4 Camping Camping near or on the project site may or may not be allowed. It is the discretion of the district, where the project is located, to approve camping sites prior to moving in any equipment or supplies. Campsites and camping methods shall follow all applicable public camping provisions set forth by the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests. Camping Information on these provisions may be obtained by telephoning the district where each the project is located. The Contractor must have written approval for camping.

Use of developed Forest Service campgrounds and other high use areas will not be allowed during the term of the contract.

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

Camping under this contract may be limited to 14 days in some locations, and is subject to availability of a suitable site. The Contractor must obtain written approval from the Government to camp in one location longer than 14 days.

The Contractor shall comply with Forest Service and local fire and sanitary regulations;

including, but not limited to: (1) clearing combustible material as directed by the Contracting Officer; (2) having a five gallon backpack pump with water and a shovel at the camp; (3) maintaining the camp in a neat and orderly condition. Inspections performed by the Government for the work required by this contract will include periodic inspections of approved campsites.

H.6 Pollution and Erosion Control During all operations under this contract, the Contractor shall exercise reasonable measures to prevent or minimize soil erosion and pollution of water and other resources.

All refuse, including garbage, rubbish, and solid or liquid wastes, from the Contractor's operations, including camps, parking areas, and equipment maintenance areas shall be stored, collected, and disposed of in a sanitary and nuisance-free manner.

H.7 Emergency Response

(a) Contractor's Responsibility for Fire Fighting. (1) The Contractor, shall immediately extinguish all fires on the work site other than those fires in use as a part of the work. (2) The Contractor may be held liable for all damages and for all costs incurred by the Government for labor, subsistence, equipment, supplies, and transportation deemed necessary to control or suppress a fire set or caused by the Contractor or the Contractor's agents or employees.

(b) Contractor's Responsibility for Notification in Case of Fire. The Contractor shall immediately notify the Government of any fires sighted on or in the vicinity of the work site.

( c) Contractor's Responsibility for Responding to Emergencies. When directed by the Contracting Officer, the Contractor shall allow the Government to temporarily use employees and equipment from the work site for emergency work (anticipated to be restricted to fire fighting). An equitable adjustment for the temporary use of employees and equipment will be made under the CHANGES-Fixed Price clause, FAR 52.243-1.

SECTION VI Contract Terms and Conditions

Coconino / Kaibab National Forests

FAR 52.212-1 - Instructions to Offerors -- Commercial Items

FAR 52.212-4 - Contract…