A-10_1282MK18Q0006.pdf

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OFFEROR

82MK

216 NORTH COLORADO STREET

ATTN PEGGY DOBIE

USDA FOREST SERVICE

GRAND MESA UNCOMPAHGRE GUNNISON N

82Z7 CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BYCODE

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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

04/23/2018 1300 MT

04/04/2018

970-642-4415PEGGY DOBIE

(No collect calls)

INFORMATION CALL:

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

4. ORDER NUMBER3. AWARD/ 6. SOLICITATION

1282MK18Q0006

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

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

1 69 904603OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

GUNNISON CO 81230

TELEPHONE NO.

17a. CONTRACTOR/

GUNNISON CO 81230-2197

216 N COLORADO STREET

GUNNISON RANGER DISTRICT

USDA FOREST SERVICE

15. DELIVER TO

GUNNISON CO 81230

216 NORTH COLORADO STREET

ATTN PEGGY DOBIE

USDA FOREST SERVICE

9. ISSUED BY

7.

2. CONTRACT NO.

EFFECTIVE DATE

$7.50

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TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

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12. DISCOUNT TERMS

THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13a.

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

8(A)

GRAND MESA UNCOMPAHGRE GUNNISON N

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.

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests - Gunnison Ranger District Tree Planting at three locations as detailed in the contract package.

Total of 13 units, planting on 319 acres of 616 gross acres. Estimated 121,900 trees and 46,000 shade cards.

Delivery: 06/22/2018

Continued ...

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

HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

X

XX

DATED

PEGGY DOBIE

. 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.

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OFFER

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 2/2012)

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32e. MAILING ADDRESS OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

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

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

37. CHECK NUMBER

FINALPARTIAL

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FINALPARTIAL

35. AMOUNT VERIFIED

CORRECT FOR

34. VOUCHER NUMBER33. SHIP NUMBER

COMPLETE

32g. E-MAIL OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

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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.

001 Highway 149

Extra Salvage and Highway 149 Landing

Rambo Salvage

Perfecto-Chavez:

Perfecto Salvage, Nutras Creek Roadside, and

Chavez Creek Roadside

Kings Spruce

32f. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

69 2 of

2018 GMUG Tree Planting Project 1282MK18Q0006 Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forests Page 3 of 69

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION B - Schedule of Items

SECTION C - Statement of Work

SECTION D - Packaging and Marking

SECTION E - Inspection and Acceptance

SECTION F - Deliveries or Performance

SECTION G - Contract Administration Data

SECTION H - Special Contract Requirements

SECTION I - Contract Clauses

SECTION J - List of Documents, Exhibits, and Other Attachments

SECTION K - Representations, Certifications, and Other Statements of Offerors

SECTION L- Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors or Respondents

SECTION M – Evaluation Factors for Award

Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forests Page 4 of 69

SECTION B - Schedule of Items Tree Planting Services

BASE ITEMS

Item/Description Approximate Quantities

Unit Price per

Total Price

1. Extra Salvage: Three units; 166 acres to plant of 166 gross acres. No shade cards will be installed for these units.

64,700 Engelmann

Spruce $___________ $__________

2. Highway 149 landing, Rambo Salvage, Perfecto Salvage, Nutras Creek Roadside, and Chavez Creek Roadside: eight units; 124.4 acres to plant of 205 gross acres. Installation of 46,200 tree shade cards over 124 planting acres to be included in price.

44,900 Engelmann Spruce and

1,300 Bristlecone

Pine $___________ $__________

3. King Spruce Salvage: 25 groups across 3 units; 29 acres to plant of 245 gross acres. No shade cards will be installed for these units.

11,000 Engelmann

Spruce $___________ $__________

Total Base Items

OPTIONAL ITEMS

4. Optional -- Additional trees with shade cards.

Quantity is an estimate and will not exceed 2000

Engelmann

Spruce $___________ $__________

5. Optional -- Additional trees without shade cards.

Quantity is an estimate and will not exceed 2000

Engelmann

Spruce $___________ $__________

6. Optional -- Additional trees in King’s Spruce Salvage without shade cards.

Quantity is an estimate and will not exceed 2000

Engelmann

Spruce $___________ $__________

Total Optional Items

Grand Total of All Items (Base and Optional)

Total of 13 units, planting on 319 acres of 616 gross acres. Estimated 121,900 trees and 46,200 shade cards.

Note that there will be 122,396 Engelmann spruce and 1,402 bristlecone pine seedlings delivered from the nursery for this project. The 2,467 seedling count difference is intended for spare trees in case of mold or cull seedlings. The plan is to plant until all suitable seedlings are expended. Optional plantings are included as bid items for these extra seedlings, and extra seedlings may not be available for all optional bid items. Final payment will be based on the actual number of seedlings successfully planted by the Contractor.

Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forests Page 5 of 69

Contact Name: ____________________________

DUNS: ____________________________

Phone: ____________________________

E-mail: ____________________________

REQUIREMENTS: OFFERORS MUST BE REGISTERED IN THE SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT

(SAM). OFFERORS MUST RESPOND TO ALL CRITERIA INCLUDED IN SECTION L. OFFERORS WHO FAIL TO MEET THESE REQUIREMENTS WILL BE DEEMED NON-RESPONSIVE AND NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR

AWARD.

Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forests Page 6 of 69

SECTION C - Statement of Work

C. 1. INTRODUCTION

C.1.1. Background

The Forest Service has a requirement to plant one-year old container-grown Engelmann spruce seedlings (see Image 1 in Exhibit 8). The purpose of this contract is to secure tree planting services, which are performed in a manner that ensures tree survival and growth.

Tree survival and growth is dependent on several factors including the initial health of the tree seedlings, the manner in which trees are handled and planted, environmental conditions such as soil moisture and weather, and subsequent animal damage to the seedlings. The services secured with this contract will focus on the need to provide appropriate tree handling and planting techniques during a period of time when environmental conditions are most favorable to ensure tree survival.

The project consists of tree planting 121,900 seedlings in 13 units covering a total area of 616 acres (312.4 planting acres). There are approximately 46,200 tree shade cards to be installed.

There are three general locations for tree planting:

Highway 149

Extra Salvage and Highway 149 Landing

Gunnison National Forest 41 air miles south of Gunnison, Colorado.

Three Planting Units and an additional landing; 166.5 acres to plant of 173 gross acres; 64,700 Engelmann spruce will be planted in Extra Salvage and 200 Engelmann spruce planted within the landing. Shade cards will be required only within the landing (200 seedlings). Extra Salvage is listed in Schedule Item 1.

Highway 149 Landing is one of three locations listed in Schedule Item 2. Additional trees without shade cards are included in Schedule Item 5. Additional trees which require shade cards are listed in Schedule item 4.

Rambo Salvage

Gunnison National Forest 41 air miles southwest of Gunnison, Colorado.

One planting unit; 63 acres to plant of 136 gross acres; 23,400 Engelmann spruce.

Entire Planting Unit (63 planting acres) will require shade card installation, totaling 23,400 shade cards. This location is one of three locations included in Schedule Item 2. Additional trees which require shade cards are included in Schedule Item 4.

Perfecto- Chavez:

Perfecto Salvage, Nutras Creek Roadside, and Chavez Creek Roadside

Gunnison National Forest 34 air miles south of Gunnison, Colorado.

Five planting units; 60.9 acres to plant of 62 gross acres; 21,300 Engelmann spruce and 1,300 bristlecone pine. All four planting units (54.2 planting acres) will

Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forests Page 7 of 69 require shade card installation, totaling 22,600 shade cards. This location is one of three locations included in Schedule Item 2. Additional trees which require shade cards are included in Schedule Item 4.

King’s Spruce

Grand Mesa National Forest 26 air miles east of Grand Junction Colorado.

Three planting units comprised of 25 small groups; 29 acres to plant of 245 gross acres; 11,000 Engelmann spruce. There will be no shade cards required for this Item. Schedule Item 3. Additional trees are listed as Schedule Item 6.

The planting units have been grouped into six Schedule Items based on general location and whether shade cards will be required.

Tree shade cards are to be installed on Schedule Items 2 and 4. See Image 2 in Exhibit 8 of an installed tree shade card. The price for tree shade card installation shall be factored into the Offeror’s price for each Schedule Item.

Price for the Offeror’s mobilization to and between planting units shall be factored into the Offeror’s price for each Schedule Item.

For Pay Per Tree projects, payment for tree planting and shading services will be based on the number of seedlings acceptably planted in each Schedule Item (measured in 1000’s of trees).

See Section G, Contract Administration Data. The number of trees to be paid for will be measured by “box count” of the trees delivered and used in a planting unit, cross checked against plots using the method described in Section G.4 Measurement, subsection G.4.1.2, by the number of cull trees observed by the Government Inspection Team or presented by the Contractor to the Government Inspection Team, and by any wasted tree/shading materials per Section G.5 Payments and Section G.6 Damages, and reduced by planting quality and acceptance procedures of Section E Inspection, subsection E.2 Government Quality Assurance.

This method of measurement allows for site-specific variations, cull trees, and opportunities for planting out “spare trees”.

Section B – Schedule of Items, Section C.1.3 – Location, Access, and Description of Units, and the Detailed Information Chart in Section J, Exhibit 1 provide specific information about the sub-items. In this solicitation, the terms “sub-item” and “planting unit” are synonymous.

Within this solicitation, references are made to the Forest Service Handbook (FSH), R1- Supplement 2409.17-2002-1 (effective 4/29/2002), Chapter 2 – Reforestation, which is available on-line. The Region 2 (R2) Forest Service Handbook Reforestation Supplement is identical to the Region 1 (R1) Handbook.

C.1.2. Scope of Contract

The solicitation is for tree planting services on the Gunnison Ranger District and Grand Valley Ranger District of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests. The Contractor shall furnish all labor, equipment, supervision, transportation, supplies (except those designated as Government furnished), and incidentals to perform all work necessary on the areas specified in the contract. The contract includes tree handling, tree planting, and tree shade card installation.

Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forests Page 8 of 69

All aspects of the work program shall be performed in an organized, systematic manner to ensure services are performed over the entire planting unit.

C.1.2.1. This contract is a Performance Based, firm-fixed price contract.

C.1.2.2. The performance period will be from approximately May 30, 2017 to June 20, 2017 depending upon snowmelt and the running of contract time. Twenty-two (22) consecutive days are allowed for planting the tree seedlings and installing the tree shade cards for all the Schedule Items. See F.1.2. – Contract Time.

C.1.3. Location, Access, and Description of Units

Highway 149 Project Area

The Highway 149 landing, Extra Salvage and Rambo Salvage Project Areas are located southwest of Gunnison, Colorado on Slumgullion Pass of Colorado Highway 149. Access to bid item 1 will be along Highway 149 and NFSR 473.0. Material delivery points will be along Highway 149 and NFSR 473.0. Access and delivery points to Rambo Salvage, Bid Item 2 Sub-item 3, is along NFSR 735.0. NFSR 735.0 is gated, and will be opened by the Forest Service.

Lake City, Colorado is nine miles north of the project area on Hwy 149. The project area is in Sections 21, 22, 23, 27, 26, and 34 of T.43N R.3W, NMPM, Hinsdale County, Colorado. See Map 1.

The Highway 149 Project Area includes Schedule Items 1, 2, 4 and 5. Tree shade cards will be installed beside the planted seedlings in all Items 1 and 5. All Schedule Items 1 and 5, as well as Schedule Item 2 sub item 26, are directly adjacent to Colorado Highway 149. Ground cover in the 5 units is recently-logged ground with areas of exposed mineral soil. Some areas of heavy slash concentration exist, along with sedge/fescue areas that will require scalping (Exhibit 1). All sub-items have a component of existing natural Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir regeneration (see Images 9, and 21 in Exhibit 8 for examples). Acceptable seedlings/trees over 6 inches tall will be spaced off of for planting adherent to the average spacing guidelines of that sub-item (Exhibit 1, C4.4.5, and C.4.4.6).

Images 3, 5, 6, 9, 10 and 17 in Exhibit 8 are representative of the planting areas in Schedule Items 1 and 5, as well as Schedule Item 2 and 4 sub items 2-26 and 2-3.

To access the Project Area, head west from Gunnison on US Highway 50 for 9 miles. Travel south on Colorado Highway 149 for 54 miles, going through the town of Lake City. See map 4.

Item 1 and Item 2, Sub-Item 2-26 are along Highway 149. Item 2, Sub-Item 2-3 is located on NFSR 735.0 less than one mile from Highway 149.

Expect travel time to be one hour and forty five minutes one-way from Gunnison. Travel time between units is 15 minutes.

Colorado Highway 149 is a standard paved road. NFSR 473.0 and NFSR 735.0 are moderately

Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forests Page 9 of 69 maintained native surface road. Some road segments could become impassable when wet or snow covered. In wet conditions, access to planting units requires a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with tire chains. In dry conditions the roads are two-wheel drive. Snow cover could delay the contract performance until the snow clears.

Perfecto-Chavez Project Area

The Perfecto Salvage, Nutras Creek Roadside, and Chavez Creek Roadside units are located south of Gunnison, Colorado in Chavez Creek and Nutras Creek. The project area is in Sections 20, 21, 22 and 27 of T.44N R.1E, NMPM, Saguache County, Colorado. See Maps 2 and 4.

The Perfecto-Chavez Project Area contains Sub-Items 2-9, 2-9.1, 2-9.2, 2-47 and 2-46 of Schedule Item 2 and 4. Tree shade cards will be installed beside the planted seedlings in all Sub-items. Ground cover in the three units is recently-logged ground with areas of exposed mineral soil. Some areas of heavy slash concentration exist, along with sedge/fescue areas that will require scalping (Exhibit 1). All sub-items have a component of existing natural Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir regeneration (see Images 9, and 21 in Exhibit 8 for examples). Acceptable seedlings/trees over 6 inches tall will be spaced off of for planting adherent to the average spacing guidelines of that sub-unit (Exhibit 1, C4.4.5, and C.4.4.6). \

The project area is accessed from Gunnison via US Hwy 50 8 miles east to Colorado Hwy 114, then south 20 miles on Hwy 114 to County Road NN14, then south for four miles to County Road KK14, turn left or west six miles passing by Old Agency Guard Center to the start of FR

788. Travel southwest on FR 788 for three miles, then turn left or south on FR 790. FR 790 will climb nine miles up through Blue Park to Big Meadows. At Big Meadows, turn left or south on FR 794.2B for three miles to FR 794.2H, then right for 1.0 mile to the east side of Sub-items 2-9, 2-9.1, and 2-9.2. To access Sub-items 2-47 and 2-46 travel south on on FR

794.0 from 794.2B 1.0 mile to Sub-Item 2-47 and an additional 0.3 miles to Sub-Item 2-46.

Total distance from Gunnison to the center of the contract area is 53 miles. Travel time to the center of the contract area is about one hour forty minutes one way. See Maps 2 and 4.

An alternative route is via FR 794 from Dome Lakes in Cochetopa Park to FR 794.2B. This route is rougher and has a stream ford to be negotiated. Distance is equal to the FR790 access route.

County road surfaces in Cochetopa Park are well maintained gravel. Beyond Old Agency the roads are surfaced by native material. Some road segments could become impassable when wet or snow covered. In wet conditions, access to planting units requires a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with tire chains. In dry conditions the roads are two-wheel drive. Snow cover could delay the contract performance until the snow clears. All planting units in the Perfecto-Chavez contract area can be accessed with a vehicle when dry. There may be some log truck traffic encountered along the access route.

Kings Spruce Project Area

The Kings Spruce Project Area is located north of Delta, Colorado near Kannah Creek. The project area is in Section 12 of T.12S R.96W, and Section 7 T12S, R95W. 6th principal Meridian, Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forests Page 10 of 69

Mesa County, Colorado. See Maps 3 and 4.

The Kings Spruce Area is Schedule Item 3, with additional trees included in Schedule Item 6.

Tree shade cards will be not be installed for any of the three Sub-Items. Ground cover in the seven units is recently-logged ground with areas of exposed mineral soil. Some areas of heavy slash concentration exist, along with sedge/fescue areas that will require scalping (Exhibit 1).

All sub-items have a component of existing natural Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir regeneration (see Images 9 and 21 in Exhibit 8 for examples). Acceptable seedlings/trees over 6 inches tall will be spaced off of for planting adherent to the average spacing guidelines of that sub-unit (Exhibit 1, C4.4.5, and C.4.4.6).

To access the Kings Spruce Project Area, north from Cedaredge, CO via US Hwy 65, Grand Mesa Scenic and Historic Byway, to NFSR 100. Delivery points will be along NFSR 100.0 and NFSR 65-2A (Mesa Top Parking Lot) for all sub-items. See Maps 3 and 4

Highway Road surface to Kings Spruce is paved. NFSR 100.0 is maintained gravel or aggregate surface suitable for passenger cars. Mesa Top Parking lot is asphalt. Some road segments on NFSR 100.0 could become impassable when wet or snow covered. In wet conditions, access to planting units requires a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with tire chains.

In dry conditions the roads are two-wheel drive. Snow cover could delay the contract performance until the snow clears. All planting units in the Kings Spruce contract area can be accessed with a vehicle when dry.

Expect travel time to be thirty minutes one-way from Cedaredge, CO. Travel time between units is less than 15 minutes.

C. 2. DEFINITIONS

Acceptable Established Tree. An existing conifer or aspen of seedling and/or sapling size that is of good form, color, free of damage, has 50% or greater crown ratio, and is the species and size specified in the Detailed Information Chart (Section J, Exhibit 1).

Access Point. The point identified for access to planting areas.

Animal Damage Control (ADC). Methods for protecting the seedlings from animal damage, particularly big game, may include Vexar tubing or flexible netting.

Artificial Shade. Materials not found on the planting site used to shade the tree (e.g. = tree shelters or tree shade cards). See Image 2 in Exhibit 8 for an example of an installed tree shade card.

Clean Water and Buckets. Water and buckets used for tree dipping that are free of contaminants that could injure the trees. Water is initially suitable for human consumption.

Clearing. Removal of surface debris around the planting hole to avoid debris from falling into the hole.

Debris includes duff, litter, rotten or charred wood, moss, loose rock, ashes, snow, and surface frost.

Contract Time. See Period of Performance.

Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forests Page 11 of 69

Container Plug. Seedling grown in a receptacle containing soil and nutrients. When the container seedlings are extracted from the receptacle, the soil stays intact around the roots. The soil and roots together are referred to as the container plug; the soil is the container media. See Image 1 in Exhibit 8 for an example.

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.

Cull Tree: A seedling found at delivery with detrimental molding (mycorrhiza on roots is acceptable), physical damage to the top or roots, excessively dry, of very poor quality, or obviously dead. Cull trees will not be planted or paid for. The Contractor is required to notify and present cull trees found to the Government Inspection Team.

DBH (dbh): Diameter of a tree at 4.5 feet (breast height) above ground level.

Delivery Point. The point identified for delivery of trees and other supplies. If there are multiple points for delivery of various items, it will be so noted.

Drip Line. The line extending vertically from the exterior edge of a tree’s live crown to the ground.

Foreign Material (in planting hole). Large rocks, sticks, litter or similar material not part of the surrounding soil substrate that is in the planting hole after the tree is planted.

Ground Line of Tree Before Planting. The original ground line of the tree before planting is the soil surface level in the nursery beds or in the container receptacle. It is between the cotyledon scar and the root collar.

Internal Box Temperature. The temperature near the center of the box of trees measured with a probe thermometer or similar instrument. This is the temperature of the seedlings while in the shipping box.

Lateral Roots. The horizontal roots extending from the main vertical (tap) root.

M Trees: Abbreviation for measurement of 1000 trees.

Microsite. A plantable spot favorable for seedling survival and growth. Examples of favorable microsites are adjacent to the shaded side of stumps, down logs, large slash, snags, and standing cull trees that provide protection from sun, wind, animals, and other damaging agents.

Moist Soil (in the planting hole). The soil in the planting hole is considered “moist” if it is similar in moisture to the undisturbed soil next to the planting hole at similar depth.

Period of Performance (also Performance Period or Contract Time). All calendar days allowed for completion of contract work. Includes all days of the week including weekends and holidays.

Calculation allows for work days, days off, and holidays off.

Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forests Page 12 of 69

Planting Inspection. The standard planting inspection procedure as described in Forest Service Handbook, R1 Supplement 2409.17 (effective 4/29/2002), 2.82 part 2 (refer to Section C.5.1 for internet access) and provided in Section J, Exhibit 3. It includes the description of planting violations that result in unsatisfactorily planted trees, plot sizes, calculations for determining planting quality based on trees planted, and similar information. Note that the Planting Inspection Sheets R1-FS-2470-9 (6/2001) and R2-FS-2470-9 (6/2001) are virtually identical and may be used interchangeably. Examples are included in Exhibits 4 and 5 of this contract.

Plantable Spot. An area where a tree can be planted in accordance with all specifications in the contract. In the Planting Inspection method, a plantable spot is also any area where the Contractor has planted a tree.

Protection. Natural and artificial materials that act as an obstacle protecting the tree from animals or other injurious agents. The protection material and effort required by the planter to protect the tree varies depending on the site conditions of each unit.

Quality Assurance. The actions taken by the Government to assess the Contractor’s results to determine that they meet contract requirements. The methods for quality assurance are described in the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP).

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.

Residual Tree. Live trees remaining in the unit after the harvest or fire activity.

Root collar: The transition zone between stem and root. In tree seedlings it is identified by the presence of a slight swelling.

Root Length. The root length measured from the original ground line to the end of the main vertical or tap root.

Satisfactorily Planted Tree. A tree that is planted in accordance with C.4.4.1.

Scalping. The removal of live vegetation including roots to reduce competition from existing vegetation and to expose mineral soil. The diameter of the scalp and the maximum depth of the scalp are specified in the Detailed Information Chart.

Shade. Natural and artificial materials that protect the tree from the sun’s heat and from wind. The type of shade material and effort required by the planter to shade the tree varies depending on the site conditions of each unit.

Soil Surface: Where surface debris is present, the soil surface is that point where leaves, needles, twigs, wood, and other surface litter has decomposed to the point that the original litter material cannot be recognized with the naked eye.

Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forests Page 13 of 69

Stationary Material. Natural material used to shade or protect the tree that is not moveable by the planter. Natural material includes items such as stumps, logs, dead brush, rocks, or terrain features used to provide the required protection for a tree. Stationary material generally offers the most shade and protection for seedlings from sun and animal trampling.

Top Height. The length from the original ground line to the top of the terminal leader; does not include needles extending above the leader.

Transportable Shade. Natural material such as woody debris that can be moved to the planting spot to shade the tree from the sun. Also known as “moveable shade”.

Trees In Possession of the Contractor. The time after trees have been issued to the Contractor. During this time, the Contractor is responsible for all aspects of tree care and accountable for tree quantities.

Unplantable Spot. An area where a tree cannot be planted satisfactorily and no tree has been planted.

An allowance is given in the Planting Inspection for unplantable spots within the plot. One unplantable spot is allowed for each single unplantable area equal in size to the average specified spacing. Example:

if a single unplantable area of 64 feet exists on an 8-by 8 foot spacing, one unplantable spot is recognized. Campsites, parking areas, fence lines, hiking trails, and roads are designated as unplantable spots.

In hoe planting a spot is considered unplantable if a suitable spot for planting a tree cannot be found after three attempts of throwing the hoe, and if the hole cannot be opened at the spot with five swings or less.

In auger planting, the spot in considered unplantable if a suitable spot cannot be found after three attempts at clearing or scalping to find a plantable spot, and then after three attempts to open the hole in the spot with the auger fail.

Unsatisfactory Planted Tree. A planted tree which fails to meet one or more of the specifications of a satisfactorily planted tree. Refer to definitions for planting violations described by Contract Inspection in FSH 2409.17, 2.82 provided in Section J, Exhibit 3.

Wasted Material. Material provided to the Contractor to conduct a task such as installing artificial shade or animal damage control that is lost, dropped, or damaged by the Contractor, or which is installed on trees not in accordance with the requirements of the contract. This may include, but is not limited to, installing shade on the wrong species or netting on the wrong tree(s).

Wasted Tree. A tree that is lost, damaged, destroyed or handled contrary to the standards for care of trees. Planted trees that exceed the maximum number of trees in the Planting Inspection plot procedure are also considered wasted trees.

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C. 3. GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY and SERVICES The property, information and services that will be provided by the Government are as follows:

Item Description Where, When, How

3.1. Detailed

Information Chart Chart with sub-item specifics. Provided in Section J, Exhibit 1

3.2. Project Maps Maps of planting units with access

roads. Provided in Section J, Exhibit 2

3.3. Access Roads

The Government will provide access to the access point(s). The Government will initially clear down trees from the access roads.

During wet or snowy conditions, access roads are accessible by high clearance four wheel drive vehicle equipped with tire chains.

Access roads may become impassable when wet, snow covered, or when wind thrown trees fall across the road.

3.4. Access Behind

Locked Gates

Some units are behind Forest road closures (locked gate). The Government will provide access through locked gates unless walk-in is required. Refer to C.4.1.4.

During period unit is being planted. Keep gate locked during and after planting.

3.5. Trees - Planting

Stock

Container Grown Trees: Container plugs are 6 to 7 inches long and firm. Top heights range from about 3 to 10 inches. At least 90% of the trees will meet these specifications.

Provided on written request submitted at least 12 hours in advance of delivery.

Delivered to delivery point as indicated on the map.

3.6. Reflective Tarps Cover to protect tree boxes.

Upon request by Contractor.

Delivered to Delivery Point as indicated on the map.

3.7. Tree Wrapping

Materials Not Applicable Not Applicable

3.8. Tree Shelter

Materials

Tree Shelters or Tree Shade Cards, consisting of plastic mesh envelope and a wire wicket.

Delivered to Delivery Point as indicated on the map. Leftover tree shelter material will be returned to the Delivery Point.

3.9. Vexar Rigid Netting

Materials Not Applicable Not Applicable

3.10. Staplers with

Staples

Four staplers with sufficient staples to attach tree shade card mesh envelope to the wire wicket.

Four staplers with staples at the pre-work meeting. To be returned at conclusion of the contract.

3.11. Compasses

Four compasses used to identify the proper side of a seedling to install a tree shade card.

Four compasses at the pre-work meeting. To be returned at conclusion of the contract.

3.12. Planting

Inspection Sheet

Forms FS-R1-2470-9 or FS-R2-2470-9 (6/2001).

Used by the Government Inspectors. Sample provided in Section J, Exhibit 4.

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Item Description Where, When, How

3.13. Tree Shelter

Installation / Removal Inspection Sheets

Not Applicable Not Applicable

3.14. Wage

Determination

USDOL - Register of Wage Determinations Under The Service Contract Act for the State of Colorado

Section J, Exhibit 6

C. 4. CONTRACTOR WORK REQUIREMENTS and STANDARDS

C.4.1. General

C.4.1.1. Road Access. The Contractor may access the planting units from roads indicated on project maps. After initial clearing of the National Forest System Roads by the Government, the Contractor shall clear any subsequent falling of trees that block roads needed to access units. All roads may become impassable when wet or snow covered.

C.4.1.1.1. Tree Transport Within Unit. The Contractor may transport trees from the access point to portions of the unit at the Contractor’s discretion consistent with any restrictions on motorized or other vehicle type as specified in the contract/task order and with COR approval.

C.4.1.2. Walk-in Units. Several of the planting units will have to be walked into as indicated on the Detailed Information Chart in Section J, Exhibit 1. The Chart provides the distance in feet from a Delivery Point based on path of least resistance. The Chart also indicates alternative walk-in distances if snow cover prevents vehicular access to the Delivery Point of the sub-item.

C.4.1.3. Air Transport. (Not Applicable)

C.4.1.4. Locked Gates. In cases where units are behind locked gates, the Contractor shall close and lock gates after passing through each gate and will be subject to all other restrictions of administrative use.

C.4.1.5. Tree Orders and Delivery. The Contractor shall order trees at least 12 hours in advance of desired delivery. This time period is necessary to allow the Government time to prepare trees for planting and for acclimatization if needed. The delivery point is indicated on the project map.

The Contractor will identify which planting units are to be planted with the trees ordered such that the Government can deliver trees of the proper seed lot for those planting units.

The Contractor shall plant all trees ordered and delivered to the planting unit within 12 hours of delivery, unless otherwise approved by the COR. Trees shall not be returned to the Government for cooler storage unless approved by the COR.

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When the COR determines that conditions are unsuitable for planting, the Contractor shall return all unplanted trees to the delivery point with no penalty for delay in planting the delivered trees.

C.4.1.6. Tree Shelter Materials Orders and Delivery. When seedlings are ordered per C.4.1.5, it will be assumed by the Government that the required tree shade cards for the unit will be installed the same day. Shade card materials will be delivered to the delivery point with the seedlings.

C.4.1.7. Return of Government Equipment. The Contractor shall return unused Government supplies, unplanted trees, shade card materials, all packaging materials, and wrapping materials to the delivery point at the end of each planting day. Gate locks shall be returned after completion of the planting unit accessed by the gated road. Staplers, leftover staples, and compasses will be returned to the Government at the completion of the contract.

C.4.2. Tree Handling and Care.

C.4.2.1. The Contractor shall be responsible for the care of trees from the delivery point and throughout the time that trees are in possession of the Contractor to assure they are properly cared for and not damaged or exposed to damaging conditions consistent with FSH 2409.17, 2.53 parts 6 and 7, provided in Section J, Exhibit 3. Trees not properly cared for may be considered wasted trees.

C.4.2.2. Contractor shall not alter the trees (includes no root or top pruning). Root plug media will not be stripped from the seedling roots.

C.4.2.3. Contractor shall take precautions to keep roots moist during the planting operation.

C.4.2.4. The Contractor shall be aware of environmental hazards that affect tree survival and shall alter crew work schedules and tree handling practices to allow planting whenever possible. Environmental Hazards are described in FSH 2409.17, 2.53, part 8, provided in Section J, Exhibit 3.

C.4.2.5. The Contractor shall maintain the internal box temperature of tree boxes that are in possession of the Contractor at or below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

C.4.2.6. Care for wrapped bundles. (Not Applicable)

C.4.3. Tree Preparation. (Not Applicable)

C.4.4. Tree Planting.

C.4.4.1. Satisfactorily Planted Tree. Trees shall be planted satisfactorily both above and below ground as defined in FSH 2409.17, 2.67. Trees shall be planted in moist soil, free of foreign debris, and in a hole deep enough to accommodate the fully extended tree roots, and shall meet all requirements of the contract. The open-hole method shall be used as

Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forests Page 17 of 69 described in FSH 2409.17, 2.63. Planting hoes shall be used for the use of the open-hole method and shall have at least a 3-inch wide planting blade that is two inches longer than the planting stock. FSH references are provided in Section J, Exhibit 3.

C.4.4.2. Clearing and Scalping. Each planting spot shall be free of surface debris and competing vegetation consistent with FSH 2409.17, 2.62 parts 1 and 2. The minimum clearing and scalping distances and the maximum clearing and scalping depths are stated in the Detailed Information Chart, Section J, Exhibit 1, and in the sections below. These standards apply to all sub-items included in this contract. The distances may differ from those stated in FSH 2409.17, 2.62.

C.4.4.2.1 Clearing Minimum diameter (inches) 18” Maximum depth (inches) Surface

C.4.4.2.2 Scalping Minimum diameter (inches) 18” Maximum depth (inches) 2” or to mineral soil

C.4.4.3. Natural Shade and Protection. (Also see C.4.5 for Tree Shelters.)

If tree shelters or tree shade cards are to be installed, then provisions of C.4.4.3 are not mandatory, but are a good practice to provide addition protection to the planted tree.

Trees shall be planted consistent with the shade and protection requirement for each planting unit as specified in the Detailed Information Chart. The type of shade material and effort required by the Planter to shade the tree varies depending on the site conditions of each unit. Natural shade material includes downed logs, stumps, standing snags, and rock meeting minimum specifications. Natural microsite shade and protection material includes:

Down logs with a minimum small-end diameter of 6 inches and minimum length of two feet.

Stumps with a minimum diameter of eight inches and minimum height of six inches.

Standing dead trees at least eight inches in diameter at breast height.

Rocks with a minimum diameter of eight inches and minimum height of six inches.

Seedlings planted next to down logs shall be spaced from those seedlings planted next to the same log the standard spacing distance.

(a) Description of Natural Shade and Protection Requirements:

1. Stationary material only. Tree shall be planted next to stationary material when it is available. When stationary material is not available, no tree planted.

2. Stationary material first, then plant in open. A tree shall be planted next to stationary material when it is available. When stationary material is not available, tree may be planted in the open.

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3. Stationary material first, then transportable shade. A tree shall be planted next to stationary material when it is available. When stationary material does not exist in the spacing allowance, shade shall be transported to the seedlings. When neither stationary nor transportable material exists, no tree shall be planted.

4. Stationary material first, transportable shade second, plant in open last. A tree shall be planted next to stationary material when it is available. If stationary material does not exist in the spacing allowance, shade shall be transported to the tree. When neither stationary nor transportable material exists, the tree may be planted in the open.

5. Stationary material or transportable shade (Planter discretion). A tree may be planted next to either stationary material or transportable shade at the Planter’s discretion. When neither stationary nor transportable material is available, no tree is planted.

6. Stationary material or transportable shade (Planter discretion), then plant in the open. A tree may be planted next to either stationary material or transportable shade at the Planter’s discretion. When neither stationary nor transportable material is available, the tree may be planted in the open.

7. No shade. There is no requirement to select the planting spot based on shade or protection.

(b) When shade is required, each tree shall be shaded at the ground level from the afternoon sun. Trees shall be on the N, NE, or E side of the shade material. Each tree shall be as close to the shade material as possible, and within ½ the distance equal to the height of the shade material (for stumps, downed logs and similar) or ½ the distance equal to the width of the shade material in the case of standing snags.

(c) When transportable (shade) material is required, it must be at least _six_ inches in diameter, and be available within one of the spacing distance to the planted tree. Do not place shade on the uphill side of a planted tree where it can roll on to the tree.

C.4.4.4. Protection. See C.4.4.3.

C.4.4.5. Spacing. Trees shall be planted to achieve the average spacing specified in the Detailed Information Chart in Exhibit 1 of Section J. It is expected that an irregular distribution will result as planters avoid acceptable established trees, rock or shallow soils and seek planting spots with the required microsite protection materials as well as planting spots in the best microsites and soil conditions. For individual trees, the spacing may be varied as stated below in any direction to attain the best plantable spot. The number of trees planted shall not be materially changed by the method of selecting planting spots.

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Spacing:

8 feet x 8 feet Allowable variation of 6 feet to 10 feet 9 feet x 9 feet Allowable variation of 7 feet to 11 feet 10 feet x 10 feet Allowable variation of 8 feet to 12 feet 11 feet x 11 feet Allowable variation of 9 feet to 13 feet

C.4.4.6. Spacing From Acceptable Established Seedlings or Saplings. Seedlings and saplings are under 5.0-inches in diameter at breast height (DBH). A seedling shall not be planted in direct competition with an acceptable established seedling or sapling. Therefore, do not plant a seedling closer than allowable variation stated in C.4.4.5 for a particular sub-item, of an existing live acceptable seedling or sapling at least six-inches in height and that is of good form, color, free of damage, and has a 50% or greater crown ratio.

C.4.4.7. Spacing From Larger Live Trees. Where live trees over 5-inches DBH exist inside the planting unit boundary, seedlings shall not be planted closer than the greater of either the allowable variation in spacing stated in C.4.4.5 for a particular sub-item, or under the drip line of the live tree. This does not include those larger trees along the edge of the planting unit.

C.4.4.8. Species Mix. (Not Applicable)

C.4.4.9. Species and Seed Lot. The Contractor shall plant seedlings of the species and seed lot specified in the Detailed Information Chart in Section J -- Exhibit 1 for each particular planting unit. In ordering seedlings for work period, the Contractor will identify which planting units are planned for planting during the work period such that the Government will deliver the appropriate seedlings to the delivery point. If insufficient seedlings of the specified seed lot are available to complete a planting unit, the Contractor will notify the Contracting Officer’s Representative. The COR may authorize the substitution of seedlings from another seed lot for the planting unit.

C.4.4.10. Trees Not Meeting Specifications. The Contractor is not obligated to plant trees that do not meet the specifications in C.3.5, and they shall be returned to the Government.

Except as noted below, if trees not meeting specifications are planted, they shall be planted satisfactorily.

C.4.4.10.1. Trees shall not be planted if they have tops less than three-inches in length, an abnormal growth, visible disease, or a root plug which is falling apart.

C.4.4.11. Non-planting Areas Within Planting Units. Within the certain planting units, areas of no tree planting are identified due to existing regeneration, dwarf mistletoe infestations, wet areas, loose sod rolls, deep woody debris beds, unburned slash piles, untreated road beds, and untreated burn pile ash pits. Specific information on non-planting areas is shown in the Detailed Information Chart in Section J -- Exhibit 1 and on the project maps in Section J – Exhibit 2. Where practical, non-planting areas have been deleted from planting units during unit boundary marking.

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C.4.4.11.1. Areas of Existing Regeneration. Where extensive areas of acceptable seedlings and saplings already exist inside a planting unit, these areas are identified for non-planting. The Planters will walk through checking for open areas which can be planted. Applicable to all sub-items. See Images 9 and 21 in Exhibit 8 for examples.

C.4.4.11.2. Non-planting Areas Adjacent To Dwarf Mistletoe Infested Stands. As shown on the project maps and described in the Detailed Information Chart, no trees will be planted within 10 to 100-feet (depending on the specific planting unit) of the edge of the planting unit boundary. These no planting buffers have been identified by flagging on the ground. Not Applicable in this contract.

C.4.4.11.3. Glacial Potholes and Wet Areas. No seedlings are to be planted below the high watermark as evidenced by standing water or a change to wet soil type vegetation. Identified potholes are shown on the project maps. Where drainage water is found running downhill of road culverts, these wet areas are considered non-plantable.

C.4.4.11.4. Under Drip Line of Larger, Acceptable, Live Conifer Trees. Seedlings will not be planted under the drip line of larger, acceptable, live conifer residual trees as described in C.4.4.7.

C.4.4.11.5. Sod Rolls In Site Prepared and Recent Timber Harvest Units. The sod rolls created during dozer site preparation for planting and from recent timber harvesting are non-plantable. Seedlings will not be planted on the sod rolls.

C.4.4.11.6. Deep Woody Debris Beds. Examples of fine woody debris include beds of saw dust, wood chips, shaved off bark, fine twigs and branches. These woody debris beds will be encountered in tree processing and log landing areas. An examples is Image 20 in Exhibit 8. If the Planter is unable to clear woody debris to a suitable planting spot in three attempts with a planting tool, then the planting spot is unplantable. If the woody debris layer is shallow and can be cleared in accordance with C.4.4.2, then the spot is plantable.

C.4.4.11.7 Near Unburned Logging Slash Piles. Areas within 30 feet of unburned logging slash piles will not be planted since the seedlings maybe damaged by heat during pile burning.

C.4.4.11.8. Untreated Slash Pile Burn Ash Pits. The ash pits left after slash pile burning are considered to be unplantable due to poor survival of seedlings. The lightly burned shoulders are plantable if the spot can be cleared. See Image 18 in Exhibit 8. Where ash pits have been ripped and stirred by heavy equipment prior to planting as shown in Image 19, the ash pit site is considered plantable.

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C.4.4.11.9. Untreated Road Beds. Roads are considered unplantable if they are open to motorized travel, or where closed if the road bed has not been ripped to reduce soil compaction. See Image 22 in Exhibit 8 for an example of a treated road bed which is suitable for planting.

C.4.5. Tree Shelter Installation – Tree Shade Cards.

Applicable to and Sub-items 2-26, 2-3, 2-9, 2-9.1, 2-9.2, 2-47, 2-46.

See Image 2 in Exhibit 8 for an example of an installed tree shade card.

Tree shade cards shall be installed concurrent with planting to protect trees from the afternoon sun, between approximately 2 - 4 pm. The cards shall be within 2 to 4-inches of the tree and positioned to shade the tree from the afternoon sun. Placement will be south-southwest of the seedling on azimuth 210o + 30o. Wire wickets will be set deep enough into the soil that the base of the mesh shade card touches the soil surface.

The plastic mesh of the tree shade card will be stapled at least twice over the top of the wire wicket to prevent the mesh from being easily pulled by wildlife and livestock.

Tree shade cards shall be installed so as not to damage the tree including skinning the bark, breaking the leader, damaging roots, or bud stripping. Do not open the mesh shade card and cover the seedling inside.

C.4.6. Tree Shelter Removal. (Not Applicable)

C.4.7. Quality Control. The Contractor shall prepare a Quality Control Plan as described in Section E.1.