Question and Answers for 12FPC120Q0021.pdf

Roche Wetlands Restoration Contractor Questions from Emails and Pre-Bid Meeting

12FPC120Q0021

Question #1:

In the solicitation instructions L.2.1.2 asks to complete all representations required by section K and not completed in SAM. Since we are current with SAM, what is required to be submitted with the bid? I read over the six pages of section K and it is not clear to me.

Answer #1:

If your SAM is current AND you have completed the representations in SAM, then you do not need to submit Section K. If you have NOT done the representations in SAM, then you must either complete them in SAM or submit Section K.

Question #2:

How does one prove that they are current in their status at SAM.gov?

Answer #2:

Provide your DUNS number and the expiration date. You can also provide a screen print of your SAM registration.

Question #3:

What is the definition of a small business as it relates to whom can bid on this contract?

Answer #3:

Your SAM registration must certify that you are a small business. If you are sole proprietor, you are considered a small business. Therefore, sole proprietors and anyone certified as a small business in SAM will be considered.

Question #4:

What do contractors need to submit for the bid to the Contracting Officer?

Answer #4:

Please review the entire solicitation. Section L explains what needs to be submitted and Section M explains how your bid will be evaluated.

Question #5:

Is bid acceptance based on the total quoted bid or could someone have a lower total bid, but still not receive the contract if they were higher on some practices than other contractors, even if their total was lower?

Answer #5:

It is based on the total quoted bid. However, the prices of each practice will be evaluated to ensure they are not unrealistically too high or too low. But if all pricing is balanced, then the bid with the lowest total quote will be receive the award if they meet all other requirements (i.e. are a small business and have an active SAM registration).

Question #6:

When is the last time when they can ask a question and receive an answer before the deadline to submit bids?

Answer #6:

All questions should be submitted by 12 PM CST on Wednesday, June 17, 2020.

Question #7:

Does the contractor need to provide any bonding for the project?

Answer #7:

Per Section I.4.5, the contractor shall submit one of the following payment protections: Payment Bond or Irrevocable Letter of Credit (ILC). Please review page 31 of the solicitation.

Question #8:

Contractors also asked about performance credits. What those are wasn’t quite clear to me? Is that part of this contract at all?

Answer #8:

See question above. I believe this answers your question, but if not please reach out to the CO, Julie Simpson for further clarification.

Question #9:

Is Hydroseeding acceptable for mulching and seeding the disturbed areas after completion?

Answer #9:

The specifications relating to the critical area planting and mulching can be found here: https://efotg.sc.egov.usda.gov/references/public/VT/VT342_Specs.pdf Hydroseeding with tackifier as mulch is allowed. Though it is typically only specified on steeper slopes, which will not be encountered in this wetland restoration project.

Question #10:

What are the approximate depths that the ditch clearing of 410 cubic yards will entail?

Answer #10:

The West end of the ditch is approximately 6 inches in depth and the east end is approximately 3 feet in depth.

Question #11:

What kind of seed should be used for the critical area planting?

Answer #11:

A conservation seed mix that includes no invasive or noxious plants and meets NRCS standards and specifications.

https://efotg.sc.egov.usda.gov/references/public/VT/VT342_Specs.pdf

Question #12:

What kind of mulch should be used?

Answer #12:

Mulch that contains no invasive or noxious plants and meets NRCS standards and specifications.

Question #13:

How are trees and shrubs that are in and around some of the spoils piles for the spoils removal areas to be handled?

Answer #13:

Trees should be avoided when possible and trees greater than four inches in diameter at 4.5 feet inches from the ground should be left undisturbed and worked around. Smaller trees and shrubs should be avoided when possible but are acceptable to remove if needed. Most spoil pile areas are discrete and not covered with trees and shrubs.

Question #14:

Will the culvert stay in place or be removed in the ditch fill area?

Answer #14:

The culvert should be left in place and the ditch can be filled in on either side of it.

Question #15:

Can woody debris be removed from the spoil pile clearing area count towards woody debris requirements for the wetlands restoration work?

Answer #15:

Yes, if they meet the criteria noted for woody debris.

Question#16:

Is there an incumbent contractor currently performing these services, if similar services have been performed in the past, or is this is a new requirement? If there is an incumbent, could you please provide the contract or task order number?

Answer #16:

This is a new requirement. We have had similar services performed across the country, but not at this location. Each requirement is a little unique because of the land.