Q&A.pdf

Q&A CSE REGION 2 2/23/18

1. Page 23. In the table, what does exam level pertain to? What does TES mean?

Threatened, Endangered or sensitive species

Could we be expected in a worst case scenario to have to collect data in all the forms? Yes

Could it happen that these forms could be the only data collected without collecting stand exam data?

No

2. Could the FSVEG data be the only data collected in the stand? Or is expected to be collected with the other stand exam data collection?

It is expected to be collected with the stand exam data

3. How many lynx cover boards will be supplied per contractor? One if required by the task order

4. Concerning BAF selection. Could a restriction be placed on a task order to limit the choice if BAFs?

Example: could a task order say that only a 10 BAF could be used? Or a contractor could only use certain BAFs? Yes it is possible that a forest may want all the plots to use the same BAF for a project. The Black Hills is in Region 2. Each forest and task order will spell out exactly what the requirement might

be. However, we would not require a minimum 5 live trees in a dead spruce forest and require collecting the measurements of all the dead trees. If the requirement is 5 live trees, then the requirements for measurement would be live trees only. Most of the Forest will use the live and dead requirement, but it can’t be assured. The government doesn’t want plots with more than 5 -7 trees average in the plots.

Could a task order be changed to say that a contractor has to average 5 LIVE trees? Yes, that is generally what is required for each size group (big and small trees)...unless the task order is in a dead forest.

Also, it says that a 5 tree average is required. If a contract specified that a 10 BAF was the only BAF available to use, a person could be measuring 10-28 trees a point. The objective would be to get an average of 5 – 7 trees per plot. If the task order specifies a specific BAF, it would be to obtain the 5 trees per plot average. It might be that one plot has more trees, but it should average out over the whole project. Generally, we let the contractor decide the appropriate plot size for the stand. In some cases, the plot size would be pre -determined by the government. This might be to revisit old plots or because they have collected enough data to know what size the plots should be to achieve the desired 5 -7 tree per plot average.

5. What is the plot size for option E.? Generally the same as the plot size for the large trees.

6. What is the grouping dbh for quick plots? 2" groups? Yes

7. Can it be assumed that OPTIONS E-K, will only be collected concurrently with stand exam data collection? Will these ever be collected alone? Yes it can be assumed that these forms will not be collected without the stand exam data.

Q&A CSE REGION 2 2/23/18

8. C.3.2.1.4 states that “for CFLR data collection, the contractor must use a sub-meter accuracy resource grade GPS or equivalent as specified in the task order to locate or relocate the sample points”. Other CFLR contracts I have had waived this provision provided I could meet the required accuracy standards with my garmin. Is there any chance you would consider doing the same?

The intent is not to dictate the type of GPS used but rather assure that the proper equipment with the proper accuracy standards are used...so yes, I would assume that if you can demonstrate that you can meet the requirements, you can use your Garmin.