1284LM24Q0001.docx

Solicitation Number: 1284LM24Q0001

(i) This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in subpart 12.6 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; proposals are being requested and a written solicitation will not be issued.

(ii) This solicitation is issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ).

(iii) The solicitation document and incorporated provisions and clauses are those in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular 2023-05.

(iv) This procurement is set aside for small business. The NAICS code is 487110 and the Small Business Size Standard is $20.5M.

(v) Schedule of Items/Price Schedule

Base Year (January 15, 2024 – January 14, 2025):

This is an opportunity for the outfitter to offer a type of trip not described above; a combination hike/float; etc. Pricing for this line is not required.

Option Year One (January 15, 2025 – January 14, 2026):

This is an opportunity for the outfitter to offer a type of trip not described above; a combination hike/float; etc. Pricing for this line is not required.

Option Year Two (January 15, 2026 – January 14, 2027):

Option Year Two (cont’d)

This is an opportunity for the outfitter to offer a type of trip not described above; a combination hike/float; etc. Pricing for this line is not required.

Schedule Notes:

a) Items labeled as optional are not required to be exercised by the government. If exercised, the contractor will be required to perform the optional work in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract.

b) The Government may issue multiple firm-fixed-price indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) awards from this solicitation.

c) Contractors may quote on any or all contract items. If an Offeror submits a quote on an item, the Offeror must quote on the Base and the option years for that item. Contractors may submit more than one quote for each of the line items (i.e., different proposed locations, option/combination trips, etc.).

d) More than one line item may be awarded to each successful offeror.

(vi) Description of Requirement (including a list of any attachments)

1.0 Background and Purpose.

The Arthur Carhart National Wilderness Training Center conducts a week-long wilderness leadership training course each year for federal wilderness managers and decision makers from four (4) federal agencies (Forest Service, Park Service, BLM and Fish & Wildlife Service) in addition to other federal agency partners. This national course is held in western Montana each year during the month of June. Instructors will work with the contractor to identify the exact week of the training each year based on weather forecasts, staff capacity, scheduling needs, etc. before a deadline provided by the contractor. Each student attending the course is assigned to a group of approximately 7-13 people and expected to participate with that group in one of several different 3-day/2-night field trips. The required field trip may be one of the following types of trips: horse packing, backpacking, drop camp, llama packing or river/lake float. The field trips are all held concurrently and always conducted on Thursday through Saturday of the training session. Each of these trips is guided by a contractor-provided outfitter-guide.

2.0 Scope.

This requirement is to provide outfitter-guide services to the Government for the annual, national federal wilderness leadership training course. The Contractor shall furnish everything necessary, including but not limited to all guides, transportation, equipment, gear, safety equipment, meals for participants, operating supplies, and incidentals to perform outfitter-guide services to the Government. The Contractor shall be a current Forest Service Outfitter and Guide permit holder (or equivalent from the following federal agencies: BLM, Park Service, Fish & Wildlife Service). Since these trips are administrative, the Contractor is NOT required to hold an outfitter-guide Special Use Permit (or equivalent) for the specific area of the provided trip. Also, the days required by the activities under this contract will not be counted against the Contractor’s existing permit.

3.0 Contractor Requirements.

3.1 General Requirements

3.1.1 Contractors shall conduct the field trip Thursday through Saturday of the week of the course. Contractors and guides are encouraged to participate in video presentations and in discussions throughout the field trip.

3.1.2 Each Contractor shall provide a minimum of one (1) Guide per trip. Each Contractor shall provide a minimum of two (2) Guides per trip on float trips.

3.1.3 Each Guide shall be trained, knowledgeable and experienced in “Leave No Trace” principles for camping and traveling safely in northern Rocky Mountains environments. All practices performed by the Guides during the field trip will be in conformance with these principles and each Guide shall be capable of instruction of the principles. Instruction by contract Guide shall be at the discretion of the accompanying Carhart Center Representative. Contractors will be held to the standard of Leave No Trace (LNT) found at the following two websites: https://lnt.org/why/7-principles/ and https://lnt.org/research-resources/leave-no-trace-for-the-outdoor-workplace/

3.1.4 At least one guide per trip shall have current membership in professional outfitter organizations or equivalent with past or current leadership roles.

3.1.5 Each Guide shall carry a First Aid kit appropriate for the size of the group and be knowledgeable in providing the group with basic medical attention in an emergency. Each Guide shall, at a minimum, be currently certified in CPR and First Aid, and shall provide evidence of this certification to the Contracting Officer no later than 30 calendar days before the first day of the trip.

3.1.6 All guides shall be equipped with two-way satellite communication devices that can be used in the event of an emergency. (Spot devices are not two-way and therefore are not acceptable.)

3.1.7 The Carhart Representative shall retain control of the group activities, relying on the Guide for input and expertise, unless otherwise determined by the Contracting Officer.

3.1.8 In the event of an emergency, the Guide shall render assistance and provide care to the extent of their training and abilities. Final determinations regarding care and evacuation of injured participants shall be made by the Carhart Center Representative.

3.1.9 Contractors and their Guides shall comply with all federal and state agency visitor use regulations for the area of operation.

3.1.10 Firearms, if deemed necessary, will be carried out of sight and per Montana State Law.

3.1.11 Contractors shall not solicit gratuities.

3.1.12 The use of waiver of liability or release forms is not allowed.

3.1.13 A form documenting participant acknowledgement of risks inherent to field trip activities may be used by the Contractor. The Contractor may use either the generic form provided by the Government or submit their own form to the Government for approval not later than 45 days before the beginning of the training course.

3.1.14 Llama, Horseback, Drop Camp Trip Contractors Only. Contractors shall insure that trails leading to planned camping areas are cleared and useable prior to the field trip in consultation, coordination and through written approval from the office having administrative responsibility for the area. The written approval will be supplied to the COR at least a week prior to the trip. Contractor shall be a current Forest Service Outfitter and Guide permit holder (or equivalent from the following federal agencies: BLM, Park Service, Fish & Wildlife Service).

3.2 Pre-Trip Requirements.

3.2.1 Pre-trip Meetings. Each Contractor shall participate in a contract pre-work meeting no later than 10 days prior to the beginning of the field trip each year. This meeting will be held by telephone unless otherwise agreed to by the Contractor and Contracting Officer.

3.2.2 Each Contractor shall meet with the COR (Arthur Carhart Representative) and attendees on Wednesday of the week of the course, typically from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the course location hotel, to review field trip logistics, distribute gear and view applicable videos.

3.3 Group Size and Participants.

3.3.1 The participants at the training session will be divided into several groups of approximately 9-13 individuals, consisting of approximately 7-10 students, 1 representative from the Arthur Carhart Wilderness Center, and a minimum of 1-2 Contractor guides. The following group sizes will be the contract requirement unless otherwise agreed to in writing, by the CO at the time of contract award, or during performance of the contract.

3.3.2 The COR will provide the Contractor(s) with a list of students, relevant student information (e.g., height and weight) and associated special requirements (e.g., dietary requirements, additional tents, etc.) approximately 3 weeks or more before the trip begins.

3.4 Trip Descriptions.

Participants ride horses, or are hiking, on established trails to a temporary camp or established camp providing only those essentials necessary for a wilderness outing, and thus provide participants with the sense of being away from items of convenience.

Horse Packing in wilderness or proposed wilderness area. A total of 1-3 horse trips may be offered, though not necessarily by the same Contractor.

The exact routes for each trip will be selected each year by the CO approximately 1-2 weeks before the trip start dates. The trip location selected by the CO is subject to change with short notice for any reason, including, but not limited to weather conditions, ground conditions, run-off, and other circumstances that may arise and make the trip to that location undesirable or impractical.

Horse Packing Trip 1: Difficulty: Easiest. * Horse Packing Trip 2: Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult, Depending on Selected Route. * Horse Packing Trip 3: Difficulty: Most Difficult. *

Backpacking in wilderness or proposed wilderness area. One trip may be offered. The exact routes for each trip will be selected each year by the CO approximately 1-2 weeks before the trip start dates. The trip location selected by the CO is subject to change with short notice for any reason, including, but not limited to weather conditions, ground conditions, run-off, and other circumstances that may arise and make the trip to that location undesirable or impractical. Participants hike to a temporary camp carrying heavy overnight packs with clothing, personal items, gear, and food. Accommodations are backpack tents. Day hike opportunities may be offered to view wilderness stewardship issues.

Difficulty: Most Difficult*

Drop Camp in wilderness or proposed wilderness area. One trip may be offered. The exact routes for each trip will be selected each year by the CO approximately 1-2 weeks before the trip start dates. The trip location selected by the CO is subject to change with short notice for any reason, including, but not limited to weather conditions, ground conditions, run-off, and other circumstances that may arise and make the trip to that location undesirable or impractical. Participants hike to a temporary camp carrying light day packs. Most clothing, gear, and food are packed in by horses or mules. Stock does not remain on-site during the trip. Accommodations are backpack tents. Day hike opportunities may be offered to view wilderness stewardship issues.

Difficulty: Easiest*

Llama Packing in wilderness or proposed wilderness area. One trip may be offered. The exact routes for each trip will be selected each year by the CO approximately 1-2 weeks before the trip start dates. The trip location selected by the CO is subject to change with short notice for any reason, including, but not limited to weather conditions, ground conditions, run-off, and other circumstances that may arise and make the trip to that location undesirable or impractical. Participants hike to a temporary camp carrying light day packs. Most clothing, gear, and food are packed in by llamas. Stock remains on-site during the trip. Accommodations are backpack tents. Day hike opportunities may be offered to view wilderness stewardship issues.

Difficulty: More Difficult*

Floating in wilderness or proposed wilderness area. One trip may be offered. The exact routes for each trip will be selected each year by the CO approximately 1-2 weeks before the trip start dates. The trip location selected by the CO is subject to change with short notice for any reason, including, but not limited to weather conditions, ground conditions, run-off, and other circumstances that may arise and make the trip to that location undesirable or impractical. Participants float a river or lake in rafts, canoes, or kayaks (as appropriate to the selected route) to a temporary camp(s). All clothing, gear, and food are carried by watercraft. Accommodations are backpack tents. Day hike or day float opportunities may be offered to view wilderness stewardship issues.

Difficulty: Easiest to Most Difficult, Depending on Selected Route* *Trip Difficulty and Level Descriptions.

Easiest: 3-6 trail miles and/or under 200 feet elevation gain per mile. Trail obstacles, if present, do not present a challenge to most hikers, and stream crossings are bridged or require only shallow fords. Participants carry little weight (day packs only). Horseback trips are most suitable for entry-level riders. Float trips present few, if any, water hazards, require little maneuvering, and have up to Class 1 rapids.

More Difficult: 4-8 trail miles and/or 200-400 feet elevation gain per mile. Trail obstacles may present minor challenges to hikers, and stream crossings may be bridged or may require shallow swiftwater or deeper flatwater fords. Participants carry little weight (day packs only). Horseback trips are suitable for entry or intermediate-level riders. Float trips present a few water hazards, require some maneuvering, and have up to Class 2 rapids.

Most Difficult: 6-12 trail miles and/or over 400 feet elevation gain per mile. Trail obstacles may present minor challenges to hikers, and stream crossings may be bridged or may require shallow swiftwater or deeper flatwater fords. Participants on foot carry overnight backpacks (at least 30 lbs.). Participants on horseback carry little weight (day packs only). Horseback trips are most suitable for intermediate-level riders. Float trips may present numerous water hazards, require frequent maneuvering, and have up to Class 3 rapids.

3.5 Contractor Proposed Trip Locations.

3.5.1 The Contractor shall provide trip(s) according to the trip locations and itinerary(s) approved in writing, in advance, by the Contracting Officer. The Contractor may obtain CO approval of proposed trip locations and itineraries as follows: (1) The Offeror may propose, and the CO may accept specific trip locations and itineraries as part of the Offeror’s proposal and contract award. Locations and itineraries approved at the time of contract award will be included in the contract as pre-approved for the life of the contract; (2) The Contractor may propose additional locations and itineraries during the task order period, and the CO may or may not approve those locations and itineraries and add them to the contract as approved alternatives. The Government may also add pre-approved trip locations and itineraries to the contract as additional options at the time of task order issuance.

3.5.2 The Contractor-provided trip(s) shall begin at trailheads located within a 4-hour drive from the designated course location for that year and be feasible given typical weather and ground conditions during the last week of June.

3.5.3 The Contractor-provided trip(s) shall be conducted on federal land in a federally designated wilderness area, or federal land proposed for wilderness designation, unless otherwise approved in advance, in writing, by the Contracting Officer.

3.5.4 The Contracting Officer will make the final location decision for each trip each year, by selecting from the Contractor-proposed trips pre-approved by the Contracting Officer. The trip location selected by the CO is subject to change with short notice for any reason, including, but not limited to weather conditions, ground conditions, run-off, and other circumstances that may arise and make the trip to that location undesirable or impractical.

3.6 Contractor Provided Transportation.

3.6.1 The Contractor shall provide shuttle/bus/vehicle transportation of Government participants and participants’ personal field trip gear from the area hotel to the field trip site and from the field trip site to the area hotel.

3.6.2 Contractors may sub-contract transportation for participants.

3.6.3 Provided vehicles shall comply with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations. All vehicles must have seat belts for all participants if required by law.

3.6.4 The Government may elect to inspect the Contractor’s transportation at any time prior to the trip. Inspections performed by the Government are for the Government’s benefit and shall not be construed as the transfer of liability or as the assumption of any liability by the Government.

3.6.5 Contractor must provide proof of a Defensive Driving course for all drivers transporting trip participants prior to task order performance.

3.7 Contractor Provided Equipment.

The Contractor shall furnish all equipment, including but not limited to those items identified herein. All trips should include gender specific tent accommodations such that no participant is required or expected to overnight with a member of the opposite sex. One tent per 2 individuals OR COVID mitigation will be one tent per person. COVID mitigation will be determined by the COR at the time of the individual field trips. All equipment should be in good working order and compatible with corresponding equipment (i.e., zippers need to work; tent rain flies need to be the appropriate size and functional, keeping water out of the associated tent; sleeping bags must be clean and appropriate to the climate).

Horse Packing Trips.

· One (1) horse for each participant.

· One (1) sleeping bag and one (1) sleeping pad per participant.

· Cookware, cook stoves, utensils, plate/bowl, coffee mug, water purification system other than iodine tablets, etc. to accommodate each group.

· Pack animals sufficient to carry all personal gear, outfitter-supplied equipment, and food. This includes any pre-setup of the camps.

· Saddle bags or horn bags for each participant.

· One (1) vehicle or more, for each field trip, suitable for use on access roads, to transport participants, personal gear and equipment to trailhead from the area hotel, and return. Seat belt use is required by each participant when traveling in vehicles and seat belts are to be provided.

· One (1) tarp or other temporary shelter of suitable size to accommodate entire field trip group in the event of inclement weather.

Backpacking Trips.

· One (1) backpack per participant.

· One (1) sleeping bag and one (1) sleeping pad per participant.

· Cookware, cook stoves, utensils, plate/bowl, coffee mug, water purification system other than iodine tablets, etc. to accommodate each group.

· One (1) vehicle or more, for each field trip, suitable for use on access roads, to transport participants, personal gear and equipment to trailhead from the area hotel, and return. Seat belt use is required by each participant when traveling in vehicles and seat belts are to be provided.

· One (1) tarp or other temporary shelter of suitable size to accommodate entire field trip group in the event of inclement weather.

Drop Camp.

· One (1) sleeping bag and one (1) sleeping pad per participant.

· Cookware, cook stoves, utensils, plate/bowl, coffee mug, water purification system other than iodine tablets, etc. enough to accommodate each group.

· One (1) vehicle or more, for each field trip, suitable for use on access roads, to transport participants, personal gear and equipment to trailhead from the area hotel, and return. Seat belt use is required by each participant when traveling in vehicles and seat belts are to be provided.

· One (1) tarp or other temporary shelter of suitable size to accommodate entire field trip group in the event of inclement weather.

· Pack animals sufficient to transport personal gear, group equipment and food from the trailhead to and from the campsite. Pack animals do not remain at campsite overnight. This includes any pre-setup of the camps.

Llama Packing Trips.

· One (1) sleeping bag and one (1) sleeping pad per participant.

· Cookware, cook stoves, utensils, plate/bowl, coffee mug, water purification system other than iodine tablets, etc. to accommodate each group.

· Llamas sufficient to transport personal gear, outfitter-supplied equipment, and food from the trailhead to and from the campsite. Only Llamas will be used to haul equipment for any pre-setup of the camps.

· One (1) vehicle or more, for each field trip, suitable for use on access roads, to transport participants, personal gear and equipment to trailhead from the area hotel, and return. Seat belt use is required by each participant when traveling in vehicles and seat belts are to be provided.

· One (1) tarp or other temporary shelter of suitable size to accommodate entire field trip group in the event of inclement weather.

Float Trips.

· One (1) sleeping bag and one (1) sleeping pad per participant.

· Cookware, cook stoves, utensils, plate/bowl, coffee mug, water purification system other than iodine tablets, etc. to accommodate each group.

· Watercraft and guides sufficient to transport personal gear, outfitter-supplied equipment, and participants safely on the river.

· One (1) properly fitted, Type III, USCG-approved personal floatation device per participant.

· One (1) vehicle or more, for each field trip, suitable for use on access roads, to transport participants, personal gear and equipment to trailhead from the area hotel, and return. Seat belt use is required by each participant when traveling in vehicles and seat belts are to be provided.

· One (1) tarp or other temporary shelter of suitable size to accommodate entire field trip group in the event of inclement weather.

Optional/Combination Trip.

· One (1) sleeping bag and one (1) sleeping pad per participant.

· Cookware, cook stoves, utensils, plate/bowl, coffee mug, water purification system other than iodine tablets, etc. to accommodate each group.

· Watercraft and guides sufficient to transport personal gear, outfitter-supplied equipment, and participants safely on the river.

· One (1) properly fitted, Type III, USCG-approved personal floatation device per participant.

· One (1) vehicle or more, for each field trip, suitable for use on access roads, to transport participants, personal gear and equipment to trailhead from the area hotel, and return. Seat belt use is required by each participant when traveling in vehicles and seat belts are to be provided.

· One (1) tarp or other temporary shelter of suitable size to accommodate entire field trip group in the event of inclement weather.

· Pack animals sufficient to transport personal gear, group equipment and food from the trailhead to and from the campsite. Pack animals do or do not remain at campsite overnight. This includes any pre-setup of the camps.

3.8 Contractor Provided Meals.

Contractor shall provide meals as follows:

3.8.1 All meals shall be sufficient in quantity and quality to be acceptable to the eating habits of the general population. The Government will notify the Contractor a minimum of 4 weeks prior to start work of any special dietary needs of field trip participants. The menu shall be provided to the COR a minimum of 2 weeks prior to start of work for approval. Meals may include vegan and gluten-free menus. No more than two (2) substitutions may be required up to 24 hours in advance of the trip due to unknown dietary restrictions/needs.

3.8.2 Contractors for backpacking trips shall supply food that has been re-packaged into low-weight containers, such as brand name Mountain House freeze dried meals or equivalent and has been properly portioned for the number of participants.

3.8.3 Contractors for all trips shall supply food that is appropriate for use in bear country and to provide food storage equipment and use practices that comply with agency visitor regulations. For the current required storage orders, by area, please reference the following website: http://igbconline.org/food-storage-regulations-2/

3.9 Biobased Product Utilization

The Contractor must comply with the Agricultural Act of 2014; the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 (FCEA), 7 U.S.C. 8102; the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (FSRIA), 7 U.S.C. 8102; the Federal Acquisition Regulation; Executive Order (EO) 13514, “Federal Leadership in Environmental, Energy and Economic Performance,” dated October 5, 2009; EO 13423, “Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and Transportation Management,” dated January 24, 2007; and Presidential Memorandum, “Driving Innovation and Creating Jobs in Rural America through Biobased and Sustainable Product Procurement,” dated February 2012, to provide biobased products.

The Contractor shall utilize products and material made from biobased materials to the maximum extent possible without jeopardizing the intended end use or detracting from the overall quality delivered to the end user. All supplies and materials shall be of a type and quality that conform to applicable Federal specifications and standards. All supplies and materials to be used in the performance of work described herein are subject to the approval of the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR).

The following is an example list of products that may be used in this contract for which biobased products are available. The list is not all inclusive. It is desirable that Contractors be able to supply the greatest number of biobased products listed meeting the health and environmental specifications.

(*Sample of biobased products for food catering/cafeteria projects)

Biobased products that are designated for preferred procurement under USDA’s Biopreferred Program must meet the required minimum biobased content as stated in the USDA Final Rule available at www.biopreferred.gov. The Contractor should provide data for their biobased products such as biobased content and source of biobased material.

In addition to the biobased products designated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the Biopreferred Program, the Contractor is encouraged to use other commercially available biobased products.

The Contractor shall submit with the initial proposal a complete list of biobased products, indicating the name of the manufacturer, cost of each material, and the intended use of each of the materials that are to be used in carrying out the requirements of this contract (see FAR Clause 52.212-2 – Evaluation – Commercial Items, or Attachment 3: Experience Questionnaire).

Additionally, the winning Contractor on each anniversary date of the contract shall compile a complete list of biobased products, including the information above, purchased to carry out the contract requirements. The Contractor shall list volume to be used and total cost for each individual product. This information will be used for reporting purposes (see Contract Clauses, FAR Clause 52.223-2).

Within thirty (30) days of contract award, the Contractor shall submit an Operation Plan. This submittal will be approved by the COR in writing. The Contractor shall not commence work until this submittal is approved by the COR in writing. The Plan must be reviewed and updated annually, and as required by the COR. The Plan must contain and define the following elements:

· The Contractor’s written policy stating its commitment to the use of biobased products, employee health and safety, and sound environmental management practices.

· Detail on how the Contractor intends to keep abreast of the development and increasing availability of designated and non-designated biobased products and how any new or improved products will be incorporated on an ongoing basis into contract performance.

· Proposed biobased construction products which must be selected in accordance with the criteria included above. At a minimum, the Plan must identify products by brand name for each of the product types.

NOTE: A Contractor may propose more than one product within a product category and/or propose a product or products addressing more than one product category.

· The product guides which define standard operating procedures for instructing staff in the proper use, storage, and disposal of biobased products; proper maintenance of equipment; and other procedures/instructions to accomplish work under this contract.

The Contractor shall provide data on the quantity and dollar values of biobased products used in this contract. The data shall be submitted to the COR quarterly.

A demonstration of proper use, an effective training program, and technical assistance are essential to the success of the purchase and use of some biobased products that may function differently than a conventional product.

4.0 Government Furnished Materials.

There are no Government-Furnished Materials provided to the Contractor for this effort.

5.0 Contractor Quality Control.

The Contractor is responsible for management and quality control actions to meet the terms of this contract. The Contractor shall develop a complete Site-Specific Quality Control Plan (QCP) to ensure the requirements of this contract are provided for as specified. The goal of the QCP should be to identify and correct any problems that may arise before they are identified by the CO or the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). The role of the Government is quality assurance to ensure contract standards are met.

Records of quality inspections shall be kept and made available to the Government throughout the performance period and for the period after contract completion until final settlement of any claims under this contract.

6.0 Government Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan.

Unacceptable performance occurs when the Contractor performance fails to meet stated performance standards (Attachment 1: QASP). The Government will not pay for unacceptable performance. The Government will record performance noting any substandard performance. The Government’s assessment of the work does not relieve the Contractor of its responsibility to provide a site-specific quality control plan (QCP).

7.0 Period of Performance.

Base period: January 15, 2024, through January 14, 2025 Option Year 1: January 15, 2025, through January 14, 2026 Option Year 2: January 15, 2026, through January 14, 2027

8.0 Contractor Payment.

8.1 Payment to the Contractor will be made per Task Order, with each Task Order being considered a separate job.

8.2 Contractor payment is based on the “per group/per trip” unit prices identified in the Schedule of Items. The contract allows for some variation in the size of the group. Within the variations allowed by the contract, the Government will pay the Contractor the “group” price for the trip regardless of the group size. For example, if the contract allows the group to include between 7-10 students, the Contractor will receive the same payment regardless of whether the final group includes 7, 8, 9 or 10 students.

8.3 See Section (vii), Invoicing Payment Platform (IPP).

9.0 List of Attachments.

Attachment 1: Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) Attachment 2: Applicable Wage Determinations Attachment 3: Experience Questionnaire

(vii) Date(s) and Place(s) of Delivery and Acceptance/Location Trip Dates

One or more contractors are anticipated to deliver one or more field trips for up to five (5) trips per year. Trips are all scheduled concurrently. Contractors providing more than one trip per performance year shall provide all trips concurrently during the dates specified herein.

The course location for the Wilderness Leadership Training Course will be in Western Montana, specifically Missoula or Seeley Lake, Montana each year, unless otherwise mutually agreed to by the Contractor and the Contracting Officer (CO). Field trips must be within a four (4) hour drive from the course location.

(viii) 52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors – Commercial Products and Commercial Services (SEP 2023) (Provision) Addenda to Provision 52.212-1 paragraph (b) Submission of Offers:

1. Offerors must have an active entity registration in the System for Award Management to submit an offer - www.sam.gov.

2. Offers submitted in response to this solicitation shall include a technical proposal, a price proposal, and contractor representations and certifications.

a. Technical Proposal – The technical proposal shall address the evaluation factors in 52.212-2. At a minimum technical proposal shall include:

i. Past Performance – provide a list of similar projects completed by your firm over the past three years (See Att. 3, Experience Questionnaire). Include a brief description of the project, dollar amount, year completed, and project owner contact information (name, phone, and email). The government may use past performance information from any available source. If a company does not have past performance information available, information may be provided for predecessor companies, key personnel, or subcontractors. In the event there is no past performance information available, the offeror will receive a neutral rating in this factor.

ii. Technical Capability – Provide a list of equipment and key personnel (with qualifications) that will be used to complete individual field trips. More specifically, identify employed guides who will perform on the proposed contract with a list of their knowledge, experience, qualifications, skills, and relevant certifications (e.g., First Aid, CPR, AED Training, Wilderness First Aid, qualified EMT, Basic Water First Responder for guides on float trips, Leave No Trace skills and experience, handling and caring for stock (if applicable), Federal and/or State outfitter and/or guide licenses and permit holders, knowledge of proposed trip area(s), and safety record). Knowledge and experience may include membership in professional outfitter organizations, past or current leadership role(s) in professional organizations, and the ability to communicate and discuss a wide range of wilderness issues. Provide with your submission a list of all items the Contractor will provide, to include equipment (general and for each participant), transportation, stock (if any), safety practices/emergency communications, meals (with sample menus), proposed locations, and maximum number of trips that can be accommodated concurrently (more than one trip at a time).

b. Price Proposal – Include the following: 1) the completed Schedule of Items from Section (v) of this solicitation, and 2) acknowledgement of any amendments to this solicitation by following the instructions that accompany the amendment(s).

c. Representations and Certifications – Fill in the check boxes for provisions 52.204-24 and 52.212-3, found in paragraph (x) of this solicitation and include a copy with your offer.

3. Submit offer by email to joanne.meiers@usda.gov so that it is delivered by the due date and time. Emails should contain 3 separate attachments (Technical Proposal, Price Proposal, and Representations and Certifications) in Microsoft Word, Excel, or Adobe PDF format. Be aware that large attachments may increase the time required to deliver an email. It is the offerors responsibility to confirm receipt of the offer.

4. Address questions about this solicitation to joanne.meiers@usda.gov.

Addenda to Provision 52.212-1 paragraph (f) Late submissions:

Replace (f)(2)(i)(A-C) with the following:

Any offer, modification, revision, or withdrawal of an offer received at the Government office designated in the solicitation after the exact time specified for receipt of offers is "late" and will not be considered unless it is received before award is made and the Contracting Officer determines that accepting the late offer would not unduly delay the acquisition.

(ix) 52.212-2 Evaluation – Commercial Products and Commercial Services (NOV 2021) (Provision)

(a) The Government will award a contract resulting from this solicitation to the responsible offeror whose offer conforming to the solicitation will be most advantageous to the Government, price and other factors considered. The following factors shall be used to evaluate offers:

Technical Capability Past Performance Price Technical and past performance, when combined, are more important than price.

(b) Options and optional items. The Government will evaluate offers for award purposes by adding the total price for all options and optional items to the total price for the basic requirement. The Government may determine that an offer is unacceptable if the option prices are significantly unbalanced. Evaluation of options and optional items shall not obligate the Government to exercise the option(s).

(c) A written notice of award or acceptance of an offer, mailed or otherwise furnished to the successful offeror within the time for acceptance specified in the offer, shall result in a binding contract without further action by either party. Before the offer’s specified expiration time, the Government may accept an offer (or part of an offer), whether or not there are negotiations after its receipt, unless a written notice of withdrawal is received before award.

(x) Representations and Certifications (complete highlighted items in this section and return with your offer)

VENDOR NAME: _____________________________________________

VENDOR UEI: _____________________________________________

52.204-24 Representation Regarding Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment (NOV 2021) (Provision) The Offeror shall not complete the representation at paragraph (d)(1) of this provision if the Offeror has represented that it "does not provide covered telecommunications equipment or services as a part of its offered products or services to the Government in the performance of any contract, subcontract, or other contractual instrument" in paragraph (c)(1) in the provision at 52.204-26, Covered Telecommunications Equipment or Services—Representation, or in paragraph (v)(2)(i) of the provision at 52.212-3, Offeror Representations and Certifications-Commercial Products or Commercial Services. The Offeror shall not complete the representation in paragraph (d)(2) of this provision if the Offeror has represented that it "does not use covered telecommunications equipment or services, or any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services" in paragraph (c)(2) of the provision at 52.204-26, or in paragraph (v)(2)(ii) of the provision at 52.212-3.

(a) Definitions. As used in this provision— Backhaul, covered telecommunications equipment or services, critical technology, interconnection arrangements, reasonable inquiry, roaming, and substantial or essential component have the meanings provided in the clause 52.204-25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment.

(b) Prohibition. (1) Section 889(a)(1)(A) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Pub. L. 115-232) prohibits the head of an executive agency on or after August 13, 2019, from procuring or obtaining, or extending or renewing a contract to procure or obtain, any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system. Nothing in the prohibition shall be construed to—

(i) Prohibit the head of an executive agency from procuring with an entity to provide a service that connects to the facilities of a third-party, such as backhaul, roaming, or interconnection arrangements; or

(ii) Cover telecommunications equipment that cannot route or redirect user data traffic or cannot permit visibility into any user data or packets that such equipment transmits or otherwise handles.

(2) Section 889(a)(1)(B) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Pub. L. 115-232) prohibits the head of an executive agency on or after August 13, 2020, from entering into a contract or extending or renewing a contract with an entity that uses any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system. This prohibition applies to the use of covered telecommunications equipment or services, regardless of whether that use is in performance of work under a Federal contract. Nothing in the prohibition shall be construed to—

(i) Prohibit the head of an executive agency from procuring with an entity to provide a service that connects to the facilities of a third-party, such as backhaul, roaming, or interconnection arrangements; or

(ii) Cover telecommunications equipment that cannot route or redirect user data traffic or cannot permit visibility into any user data or packets that such equipment transmits or otherwise handles.

(c) Procedures. The Offeror shall review the list of excluded parties in the System for Award Management (SAM) (https://www.sam.gov) for entities excluded from receiving federal awards for "covered telecommunications equipment or services".

(d) Representation. The Offeror represents that—

(1) It ☐ will, ☐ will not provide covered telecommunications equipment or services to the Government in the performance of any contract, subcontract or other contractual instrument resulting from this solicitation. The Offeror shall provide the additional disclosure information required at paragraph (e)(1) of this section if the Offeror responds "will" in paragraph (d)(1) of this section; and

(2) After conducting a reasonable inquiry, for purposes of this representation, the Offeror represents that— It ☐ does, ☐ does not use covered telecommunications equipment or services, or use any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services. The Offeror shall provide the additional disclosure information required at paragraph (e)(2) of this section if the Offeror responds "does" in paragraph (d)(2) of this section.

(e) Disclosures. (1) Disclosure for the representation in paragraph (d)(1) of this provision. If the Offeror has responded "will" in the representation in paragraph (d)(1) of this provision, the Offeror shall provide the following information as part of the offer:

(i) For covered equipment—

(A) The entity that produced the covered telecommunications equipment (include entity name, unique entity identifier, CAGE code, and whether the entity was the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or a distributor, if known);

(B) A description of all covered telecommunications equipment offered (include brand; model number, such as OEM number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number; and item description, as applicable); and

(C) Explanation of the proposed use of covered telecommunications equipment and any factors relevant to determining if such use would be permissible under the prohibition in paragraph (b)(1) of this provision.

(ii) For covered services—

(A) If the service is related to item maintenance: A description of all covered telecommunications services offered (include on the item being maintained: Brand; model number, such as OEM number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number; and item description, as applicable); or

(B) If not associated with maintenance, the Product Service Code (PSC) of the service being provided; and explanation of the proposed use of covered telecommunications services and any factors relevant to determining if such use would be permissible under the prohibition in paragraph (b)(1) of this provision.

(2) Disclosure for the representation in paragraph (d)(2) of this provision. If the Offeror has responded "does" in the representation in paragraph (d)(2) of this provision, the Offeror shall provide the following information as part of the offer:

(i) For covered equipment—

(A) The entity that produced the covered telecommunications equipment (include entity name, unique entity identifier, CAGE code, and whether the entity was the OEM or a distributor, if known);

(B) A description of all covered telecommunications equipment offered (include brand; model number, such as OEM number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number; and item description, as applicable); and

(C) Explanation of the proposed use of covered telecommunications equipment and any factors relevant to determining if such use would be permissible under the prohibition in paragraph (b)(2) of this provision.

(ii) For covered services—

(A) If the service is related to item maintenance: A description of all covered telecommunications services offered (include on the item being maintained: Brand; model number, such as OEM number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number; and item description, as applicable); or

(B) If not associated with maintenance, the PSC of the service being provided; and explanation of the proposed use of covered telecommunications services and any factors relevant to determining if such use would be permissible under the prohibition in paragraph (b)(2) of this provision.

52.212-3 Offeror Representations and Certifications – Commercial Products and Commercial Services (SEP 2023) (DEVIATION NOV 2022) (Provision) [If Offeror Representations and Certifications are not complete in SAM the offeror shall submit a completed copy of the provision at 52.212-3, Offeror Representations and Certifications-Commercial Products and Commercial Services, with your offer. The full provision is available from http://www.acquisition.gov/far/.

If Offeror Representations and Certifications are complete in SAM, the offeror shall complete the following:] (b)(1) Annual Representations and Certifications. Any changes provided by the Offeror in paragraph (b)(2) of this provision do not automatically change the representations and certifications in SAM.

(2) The offeror has completed the annual representations and certifications electronically in SAM accessed through http://www.sam.gov. After reviewing SAM information, the Offeror verifies by submission of this offer that the representations and certifications currently posted electronically at FAR 52.212-3, Offeror Representations and Certifications-Commercial Products and Commercial Services, have been entered or updated in the last 12 months, are current, accurate, complete, and applicable to this solicitation (including the business size standard(s) applicable to the NAICS code(s) referenced for this solicitation), at the time this offer is submitted and are incorporated in this offer by reference (see FAR 4.1201), except for paragraphs ______________.

[Offeror to identify the applicable paragraphs at (c) through (v) of this provision that the offeror has completed for the purposes of this solicitation only, if any. Write “None” if there are no changes needed to your online reps and certs.

DEVIATION NOV 2022] Offerors that are representing as joint ventures should submit their socio-economic status in the space provided above until such time that SAM.gov has been updated to include the joint venture representations contained within provision 52.212-3 paragraph (c).

These amended representation(s) and/or certification(s) are also incorporated in this offer and are current, accurate, and complete as of the date of this offer.

Any changes provided by the offeror are applicable to this solicitation only, and do not result in an update to the representations and certifications posted electronically on SAM.]

(xi) 52.212-4 Contract Terms and Conditions – Commercial Products and Commercial Services (DEC 2022) (DEVIATION 2017-1)

(xii) 52.212-5 Contract Terms and Conditions Required to Implement Statutes or Executive Orders– Commercial Products and Commercial Services (SEP 2023) (DEVIATION 2017-1)

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

(1) 52.203-19, Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (Jan 2017) (section 743 of Division E, Title VII, of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (Pub. L.