B09_-_Amendment_0003_-_Updated_SOW_0003.docx

SECTION B - SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES

This requirement is for the Design, Illustration, Fabrication, and installation of Interior Exhibits at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center.

Base Item: Visitor Exhibit

Optional Item: Welcome Counter and Seating Area Exhibit

(End of Section B)

SECTION C - STATEMENT OF WORK

1. Site Background and Context:

The Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1965 to provide habitat for waterfowl and other priority species and create recreation opportunities for the community, including a waterfowl hunt program. Currently the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge is a place where people of all abilities can experience nature and share their outdoor traditions with others. The approximately 5,300 acres contains a rich diversity of floodplain forests, freshwater marshes, and meadows, and sustains thriving populations of wintering dusky Canada geese, migrating waterfowl, and other wildlife. With collaboration from conservation partners, the refuge applies sound, scientific principles to sustain the long-term ecological health and integrity of lower Columbia River floodplain habitats; expand environmental education; encourage participation in wildlife-dependent recreational opportunities; protect and interpret unique cultural resources; and foster natural and cultural resources stewardship. As the rural character of the landscape changes, the refuge will become even more important to wildlife and those seeking to understand our natural and cultural heritage.

This project will focus on fostering and facilitating connections and understanding of this mission through the orientation of visitors to Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. With over 130k visitors to the refuge and growing, Ridgefield’s new visitor facilities will provide vital engagement opportunities to those with different needs and interests. The facilities will include indoor and outdoor interpretive elements, a nature explore area and outdoor classroom space, native gardens, an indoor classroom and a community multifunction space. These elements will provide an introduction and stepping stone to engagement with the larger refuge public use spaces where visitors can enjoy wildlife observation on a network of trails and an auto tour route.

Ridgefield NWR is also one of four refuges in this management unit, each with their unique approach and contribution to conservation and recreation. As these spaces are all adjacent to the Portland-Vancouver Metro Area, the CNC also serves as an opportunity for all local communities to understand and appreciate the Refuge Systems contributions to their lives, build comfort and connection to the outdoors through this safe and welcoming space, and to navigate a place that is intentionally built to increase accessibility to the outdoors.

2. General Requirements of the Project

This project shall be the planning, design, fabrication, and installation of new exhibits at Ridgefield NWR. The project includes coordination, via the appointed contracting officer’s representative (COR), with refuge staff, and regional office staff. The Contractor will develop an exhibit concept plan working with the staff of CONWR. The concept plan will be the initial step in the design process to develop an overall theme and design direction for the exhibits that fits the space, setting, and meets the outlined visitor objectives.

The exhibits are expected to be designed for the following spaces: 1,700 square-foot exhibit hall/lobby. The exhibits should involve low to medium-level technology and be easy to maintain. Ridgefield contracted an exhibit concept plan as a starting point for this project by Ivie Interpretive in 2023. The site wants to use these concept plans as inspiration but would require the contractor to re-envision this space based on current needs.

The exhibits shall be made as accessible (ADA compliant) as possible within the set budget using tactile displays and tactile maps, special audio features, and more. The Contractor shall consult with an accessibility firm at least once in the exhibit design process to get their review and input on the accessibility of the designed exhibits.

The Contractor will develop an exhibit concept plan working with the staff of Ridgefield NWR. The concept plan will be the initial step in the design process to develop an overall theme and design direction for the exhibits that fits the space, setting, and meets the outlined visitor objectives. The Contractor shall ensure that all exhibit elements are designed and fabricated to be durable, maintainable, accessible, and suitable for the intended environment. The contractor is responsible for completing all tasks to fit within a fixed budget (including designing exhibits that can be completed within that given budget).

The Contractor shall provide all services including labor, materials, facilities, and travel necessary to plan, design, detail, fabricate, transport to the site, and install all exhibit elements in accordance with the specifications as detailed in this statement of work and its attachments. This statement of work includes comprehensive research for obtaining all necessary reference information and materials to design, specify, and provide reference materials for all the models, props, and artwork required under this task order. Work shall be coordinated through the appointed Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) with site staff and regional office staff.

Summary of Statement of Work Items:

Clin 00010 - Central Interpretive Exhibit Clin 00020 - Welcome Counter

Line 00010 Bid Items

1) Wall Exhibits

2) Topographic Map

3) Tree Seating Area and Exhibit

4) Friend Nature Store/Temporary Exhibit Space

5) Salmon Stream Mural

6) Rollable Exhibits

7) North Vestibule Area

Line 00010 Bid Items with the additional needs of:

8) Exhibit lighting (beyond existing general building lighting)

9) Recommendations for any alterations that are needed to the facility to accommodate the new exhibition design (i.e., new walls, new ceiling, floor and wall treatment/colors), including electrical loads for all exhibit spaces.

3. Definitions:

For the purpose of this Scope of Work:

Exhibit: For the purpose of this statement of work, “exhibit” is defined as including, but not limited to, any of the following or combinations thereof: dioramas, cabinetry, interpretive panels, kiosks, audio/visual programs and equipment, interactives, graphics, models, taxidermy, photomurals, background paintings and murals, floor treatments, ceiling treatments, multi-media programs and equipment, interactive mechanicals, sound systems, photographs, illustrations, interior and exterior signs, desks, and exhibit lighting fixtures.

4. Scope of Work by Phase:

4.1 Phase 1 – Post Award Meeting

Review all government-furnished information and attachments and coordinate and facilitate the initial post-award meeting and all subsequent review meetings with the Service. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to write up the meeting notes summarizing the discussions and accomplishments from each meeting, including decisions, and action items from the Service review. This should be accomplished and provided to the COR within one (1) calendar week after the meeting.

4.1.1 Phase 1 – Host design charrette

Coordinate with the COR and station to host a workshop with field staff and partners to help us understand the contractor’s design process and to develop themes for the exhibits.

Deliverables:

· Schedule Site Visit

· Preliminary project schedule

· Meeting notes

· Schedule and host design charrette

4.2 Phase 2 – Site Visit

Lead designer shall conduct a site visit to Ridgefield NWR, Ridgefield, Washington, to attain familiarity with the Refuge, the habitat, and the requirements of this statement of work to be used in establishing conceptual designs for this project. Designers will familiarize themselves with site conditions, visitor flow, and installation constraints. Document findings and confirm project goals, constraints, assumptions, and risks.

Deliverables:

Site visit summary

4.3 Phase 2 – Concept Design (30%)

The Contractor shall develop an overall exhibit and trail concept, including:

· Preliminary interpretive themes and key messages

· Conceptual layouts and exhibit narratives

· Initial graphic style direction and material concepts

· Approval of designs to be in writing from the Contracting Officer or the Officer's

Deliverables:

· Concept design package (30%)

· Preliminary interpretive text outlines

4.4 Phase 3 – Design Development (60%)

The Contractor shall refine approved concepts into coordinated designs, including:

· Scaled exhibit drawings and layouts

· Draft interpretive text and graphic layouts at legible size

· Draft translations (if required).

· Preliminary material, finish, and color selections

· Identification of fabrication methods and hardware.

Deliverables:

· Design development package (60%)

· Updated schedule and cost estimate

4.5 Phase 4 – Final Design (90–100%)

The Contractor shall complete all design work necessary for fabrication and installation, including:

· Final exhibit drawings suitable for fabrication.

· Camera-ready artwork and production-ready files.

· Final interpretive text and translations (if required).

· Submission of samples for materials, finishes, and colors.

Deliverables:

· 90% and 100% final design submittals

· Final cost estimate

4.6 Phase 5 – Fabrication

The Contractor shall fabricate all approved exhibit elements, including:

· Interior-grade, high usage, UV-stable, materials as required.

· High-density color printing and durable edge treatments.

· Security hardware and mounting systems.

· Contractor shall fabricate elements with a full replacement warranty all products and workmanship for a period of 1 years of normal wear and tear.

Deliverables:

The Contractor shall submit shop drawings and fabrication samples for approval prior to production. Contractor may be required to show progress pictures as requested by the COR.

4.7 Production Considerations

For this project, the Government anticipates that the magnitude of production is between 65-75% of the total price.

Production shall include:

1. All costs for purchasing, fabricating, transporting, and installing all exhibit elements as specified in base contract

2. Related fabrication costs, including: project management, shop drawings, samples, packing, shipping, and project closeout.

3. Production of all original audiovisual and electronic interactive programs.

4. Acquisition and installation of all electronic equipment, including audiovisual equipment.

5. Acquisition and installation of all exhibit-specific lighting.

6. Production of original artwork including: illustrations, maps, and photographs, including use-rights in perpetuity.

7. Production or acquisition of all custom elements, including: natural history models, taxidermy, reproduction furnishings, topographic maps, architectural models, sculpted or cast human figures, custom electronic elements, audiovisual equipment, exhibit and visitor desk lighting, mechanical and electromechanical devices

8. Production or acquisition of accessible seating

9. Production of information and signage for the Welcome counter

10. Production of the first changeable exhibit

11. Production of the any required Exhibit Audio Description program, including script development and hardware purchase and installation.

12. Any other items as necessary for the project.

Production shall not include:

1. Demolition of current exhibits.

2. Purchase and installation of house and architectural lighting.

3. Any other items as necessary for the project.

(Note: Digital drawings will be available to the Contractor upon request.)

4.8 Shop Inspections

If deemed necessary by the COR, work in this phase shall include the facilitation of visits by the COR to the Contractor’s facility to view and inspect work on all exhibit elements. The Contractor shall facilitate at least one (1) shop inspection by the COR, with a second optional inspection by the COR based on the needs of the project.

4.8.1 Preliminary Shop Inspection

The Contractor shall facilitate review of exhibits at the 40% completion milestone, at a date to be determined in consultation with the COR. The Contractor shall provide the following at the Preliminary Shop Inspection:

1. Primary exhibit structures without final finishes.

2. Full-sized, unlaminated graphic proofs of any graphic layouts requiring revision during the previous graphic sample review.

3. Preliminary, in-progress versions of all modeled elements.

4. The COR shall provide a list of any additional exhibit elements to be reviewed at Preliminary Shop Inspection no later than the Production Design 2 phase of work.

4.8.2 Final Shop Inspection

All exhibit structures, graphics, and content specialties shall be complete and fully operational for the final inspection, at a date to be determined in consultation with the COR. The Contractor shall provide the following:

1. To the greatest extent possible, all exhibit units shall be configured in a dimensioned area similar to that into which they shall be installed.

2. All operations of each Custom Element, Electronic Program, and Electronic Equipment shall be demonstrated to be fully functional in accordance with the design intent and applicable fabrication techniques.

3. All exhibit units with built-in lighting, electrical, mechanical, and electronic equipment shall be connected to power sources and demonstrated to be fully functional.

4. Document all shop inspection review comments and provide a shop inspection correction list to the COR. All correction list items identified at the Final Shop Inspection shall be corrected by the Contractor prior to shipping exhibits to the installation site.

5. While at the Final Shop Inspection, conduct the Pre-Installation meeting.

4.9 Installation

The Contractor shall furnish all materials and labor to transport the panel components to the site, and to unload and install the panels.

The Contractor shall:

· Install the exhibits, panels, and any fabricated pieces on-site at the Refuge. The installation and completion of the exhibit shall be projected and scheduled. The CO or COR will be present during the installation to review progress and work, and to discuss solutions to any installation problems that may occur.

· Contractor to review site access for construction equipment for exhibits.

· Provide As-Built drawings for installing the panels in the existing structures.

· Return to the Service all materials used as reference and/or to create the artwork for the interpretive panels and exhibits. All original artwork becomes the property of the Service at project completion. All photographs and other reference materials shall also be returned to the Service or the original owner.

· The Contractor shall provide their own mechanized equipment, power tools, and equipment to construct and install the panels.

· The Contractor is responsible for removal of all waste materials generated during the installation from the site and shall arrange for proper disposal of this material. Clean worksite of debris and dust.

· In accordance with FAR Clause 52.237-2, the contractor shall be responsible for repairing any damage incurred within the work area.

· Contractor shall issue a full replacement warranty all products and workmanship for a period of 1 year of normal wear and tear.

· The Contractor shall be responsible for exhibit lighting fixtures and accessories; for completing connections of exhibit lighting and exhibit electronic equipment to existing electrical junctions; for the installation of exhibit lighting on site; and for the final placement and aiming of both building and exhibit lighting fixtures after exhibit elements have been installed.

· Conduct a walk-through inspection of completed and installed exhibits and provide operational training to refuge staff.

Final Deliverables:

· As-built drawings

· Installation completion documentation

· Deliver signed releases, licenses, and/or agreements for all talents and other existing works created.

· Acquire, per Government requirements, unlimited worldwide rights for all original elements first produced by the Contractor.

· Photograph the completed exhibit. Photographs are used as a record in the final Maintenance Manual, as well as for Service and Contractor portfolios of completed work; therefore, photographs shall be production or print quality.

· Provide the Refuge with a maintenance kit containing specialized keys, tools, and maintenance supplies.

· Supply a draft Maintenance Manual in electronic PDF format.

1. Task order information.

2. Product list and catalog cuts.

3. Warranties.

4. Color and finish samples.

5. As-built lighting plan.

6. As-built exhibit plan and drawings.

7. Final Graphic Layout files, including all revisions and corrections made during production.

8. Instructions for maintenance (cleaning, repair, and handling) of exhibits

9. Instructions for operation (access, and electrical, and mechanical instructions) of exhibits.

10. High-resolution scans of artwork and photography produced for the exhibit.

11. Production-quality photography of installed exhibits.

· If AV was used, Prepare an Audiovisual Operations and Maintenance Manual, including the following:

1. Systems block diagrams.

2. Systems overview descriptions.

3. Instructions for operation (access, system startup, shutdown, and seasonal programming procedures; system adjustments; troubleshooting guide).

4. Instructions for maintenance (intervals for maintenance, service contract).

5. As-built wiring diagrams.

6. Final program files, including all revisions and corrections made during production, with AV completion report for each program.

7. Manufacturer manuals and warranties.

8. Audio Description manual as part of the AV Operations Manual, to include:

· AD trigger placements within exhibits;

· Maintenance instructions and replacement schedule for all AD hardware, listening equipment, and accessories;

· “Hot-spot” zones for AD triggers and Wi-Fi router for synchronous audio streaming of any audiovisual programs;

· Cut-sheets or specifications for all AD hardware, listening equipment, and accessories.

Should materials provided by the Contractor be defective or subject to failure, the Contractor will provide corrective remedy within seven (7) calendar days from the notice of corrective action(s). After seven (7) calendar the government will have such work performed at the expense of the Contractor.

4.10 Building Prep

A separate building prep site visit is required under this task order. The Contractor shall verify site conditions during a site visit to be scheduled in consultation with the COR. The building will be operating at the time of exhibit install.

The Contractor shall perform the following work:

1. Travel to Ridgefield in Ridgefield, WA. The site visit shall be one 8-hour day.

2. Verify whether exhibits, as approved for production, require any adjustments ahead of Installation.

3. Prepare and submit documentation of any changes or updates to the installation site that impact the as-designed exhibits.

4. Prepare a plan for mitigating interruptions to building operations during installation.

5.0 Exhibit Elements (Base Bid)

1) Central Interpretive Exhibit – Floating Exhibit

a. Design, fabrication, and installation of floating exhibit with potential diorama, touch table, and drawers that accommodate interactive activities

i. Reflects the interconnectedness of wildlife that can be seen on the refuge

ii. Allows visitors to interact with elements in different ways, including those with physical and cognitive disabilities

1. Exhibits will have interactives to include: sight, hearing, smell, and touch to engage visitors.

iii. Concept drawings for exhibit included in the Attachment 1 “Concept Drawings”

b. Provide two bids: one for if exhibit is designed as stationary and one if designed to be moveable on casters

2) Welcome Counter

a. Design, fabrication, and installation of the reception counter

b. Welcome counter should have built in storage for brochures and other materials

c. Welcome counter will include both a low and high counter, to accommodate different visitors

d. Rough estimate of the surface area space is 37 square feet

e. Face of the counter should have artistic or interactive elements to occupy young visitors (see example attached in Addendum)

i. Concept drawings for exhibit included in the Attachment 1 “Concept Drawings”

ii. Requesting a “low” and “high” estimate for this desk, if possible

6.0 Optional Line Items

3) Wall Exhibits

a. Design, fabrication, and installation of exhibits lining the north, east, and south walls

b. Concept illustrations for this exhibit are included at the end of this document. These concepts are meant to be used as a starting point, but the Refuge is open and wanting to explore different directions.

c. Allows visitors to interact with elements in different ways, including those with physical and cognitive disabilities

i. Exhibits will have interactives to include: sight, hearing, smell, and touch to engage visitors.

d. Wall space for exhibit is roughly 36' length by 9'height – 324 square feet of exhibit wall space

4) Topographic Map

a. Design, fabrication, and installation of a moveable exhibit with a topographic map of the landscape surrounding and including Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge

i. Maps will be used to assist with wayfinding and show the significance of migration, flyways, the watershed, and other Refuges in the complex

ii. Map will show Ridgefield NWR’s impact on the surrounding area

b. Concept illustrations for this exhibit are included at the end of this document. These concepts are meant to be used as a starting point, but the Refuge is open and wanting to explore different directions.

c. Provide two bids: one for if exhibit is designed as stationary and one if designed to be moveable on casters

5) Tree Seating Area and Exhibit

a. Design, fabrication, and installation of a tree-inspired seating area to accommodate young visitors and/or a family

b. Designed to accommodate different body types

c. Seating area can be loosely based on concept illustration included in this package

d. Seating area should incorporate three different trees and serve as a resource for educational programming

i. Bark should have tactile elements to assist with sensory learning

e. Design should incorporate some interactive exhibit to meant to gather feedback, input, and/or reflections from visitors

6) Friends Nature Store/ Temporary Exhibit Space

a. Design, fabrication, and installation of a ~40 square foot space

b. This space was originally designed to be a nature store where the Friends of Ridgefield NWR could sell their products. Based on the Friends group capacity, it could be a while until the group is ready to manage a storefront. In the meantime, we would like to work with a contractor to brainstorm and design this space as a temporary exhibit space that could later be used as a store.

i. The contractor would provide new designs for this space based on the dual needs of a current temporary exhibit space (for rotating art features, for example) and the future needs of a Friends nature store.

c. Concept illustrations for this exhibit are included at the end of this document. These concepts are meant to be used as a starting point, but the Refuge is open and wanting to explore different directions.

7) Salmon Stream Mural

a. Design, fabrication, and installation of the concrete bas relief mural along the walkway to the Refuge trails, installed on an existing concrete wall

b. Mural would span ~63’, with a height of up to ~ 8 ‘ tall.

c. Mural would be loosely based on the concept drawings included in this package.

8) Rollable Exhibits

a. Design, fabrication, and installation of two (2) additional, rollable, exhibits that can withstand indoor and outdoor conditions

i. These exhibits would be designed to be used both inside the building and outside on the patio area, depending on event/day needs

ii. Exhibit should be designed to have some content be interchangeable

b. Estimated size of each exhibit would be about 2’ width x 2’ length, with a height of about 5’

9) North Vestibule Area

a. Design, fabrication, and installation of entry space in the north vestibule that leads between the hallway and exhibit hall.

i. This area includes a small bench and is a point of entry into the exhibit hall for folks coming/ going from the classroom or multi-purpose room.

ii. Designs should welcome folks to the exhibit hall (or to the classrooms) and create a smooth transition between the look and feel of these two parts of the community nature center.

iii. Proposed ideas include a banner or sign welcoming folks to the exhibit hall, hanging wildlife sculptures, or a simple interactive exhibit for folks waiting for the bathrooms. Design should be simple and relatively low cost.

iv. Space is about 10’ by 8’ and must accommodate doors that lead into the exhibit hall.

7. Design and Production Requirements

The Contractor will design, fabricate, build, and install exhibits at Ridgefield NWR. The contractor will complete the following steps:

7.1 Interpretive Theme and Text Development

The interpretive themes, messages, and text will be developed by the contractor while working closely with the COR and Service staff. The Service staff will provide local knowledge, biological and some historical information to the Contractor, but the Contractor will also be responsible for researching historical and natural history information. The text will be concisely written, reader friendly, use active and expressive language, and be technically accurate. The text and artwork should work together to create a unified interpretive message for each panel.

7.2 Concept Plans

Contractor to submit four sets of concept to final design drawings for review and approval at 30%, 60%, 90%, and 100% completion milestones. The drawings will include every and all information needed to produce, fabricate, and install the signs and exhibits, including:

1. Buildable plans of each exhibit drawn to scale

2. Identification and specifications for all necessary materials

3. Identification of all colors used

4. Identification and specifications for all necessary hardware

7.3 Design Parameters

1) Maximize the flexibility and adaptability of the space

2) Complement other visitor experiences at the site, not duplicate them

3) Incorporate Universal Design and accessibility guidelines

4) Limit sound spill in the space and address spatial acoustics

5) Design exhibits to be interactive but low tech, and only integrate limited audiovisual programs with exhibits that don’t require much maintenance

6) Include tactile elements throughout, and interactives to include sight, smell, hearing, and touch

7) Include limited or no display of original artifacts

8) Incorporate sustainable and energy efficient lighting

9) Incorporate accessible seating

10) Exhibits should inspire visitors to go outside

7.4 Graphics and Layout

The Contractor will develop the graphics and layout for the panels. This will include providing and locating the graphic elements and photographs. The available stock photos may be limited so the Contractor is responsible for photo research and acquisition of photos to create a successful design. The final layout will combine text and graphic elements into a dynamic and engaging visual presentation. The Contractor will provide the detailed final design files and associated files to the COR.

Contract will provide final camera-ready artwork for exhibits, including illustration. We expect these kiosks will have both photographs and illustrations. Contractor to provide camera-ready artwork in high resolution digital format (including high resolution scans of all photos and illustrations) ready for output to fabricator.

All artwork/illustrations will be both aesthetically pleasing and biologically accurate. Contractor must submit for approval samples of illustrations created by the illustrator that will be used to complete this work.

7.5 Fabrication

· The Contractor shall produce interior grade kiosks meant to withstand heavy use.

· Fabrication of any outdoor exhibits (the rollable exhibits) in Folia or similar high pressure laminate material.

· Exhibit materials, stains, paints, metal elements, etc… shall be presented to the COR for Service staff review and approval.

· Interpretive panels, at minimum, should be made of a substrate that is UV stabile and of an all-weather material.

· Exhibits shall have an edge treatment to prevent delamination.

· Where required, exhibit panels shall have threaded inserts with accompanying security bolts.

· A 10-year minimum product guarantee is requested.

7.5.1 Exhibit Structures, Cabinetry, and Casework

The Contractor shall provide adequate personnel and facilities to fabricate all structures and exhibit elements as required under this contract. The Contractor’s PM shall ensure the safety of staff and the quality of fabricated elements and shall facilitate reviews of work throughout fabrication.

All exhibit structures, cabinetry, and casework shall adhere to the highest safety, environmental, and quality standards set under the law, and in accordance with base contract Attachment 1, Exhibit Planning, Design, and Fabrication Specifications.

Casework shall be in accordance with base contract Attachment 3: Exhibit Conservation Guidelines.

7.6 Codes and Standards

All exhibitions shall be produced and installed in accordance with all applicable codes, standards, parameters or regulations. In case of conflict between codes, standards, or regulations, the most stringent requirement shall apply.

1. Reference to standard specifications of any technical society, organization, or association, or to codes, manuals, or regulations of Federal or local authorities shall mean the latest standard, code manual, regulation, specification, or tentative specification adopted and published at least thirty (30) days prior to submittal of proposals, unless specifically stated otherwise.

2. Any code, standard, regulation, or specification listed below, in the attachments or otherwise referenced herein, that references the “authority having jurisdiction”, “local authority”, or “governmental authority” shall be interpreted to refer to the Contracting Officer as being this authority for purposes of interpreting/clarifying codes, standards, regulations, and specifications.

7.7 Electronic Programs and Equipment

If the Contractor’s new designs incorporate any electronic programs or elements in the exhibits, the Contractor will be required to:

The Contractor shall acquire all necessary content, edit, and produce all Electronic Programs planned and designed for the exhibits. All Electronic Programs (EP) and associated Electronic Equipment (EE) shall be in compliance with the Information and Communication Standards of the Rehabilitation Act (see Section508.gov) and in accordance with base contract Attachment 6: National Park Service Standard Specifications for the Production and Installation of Electronic Programs. Equipment and software components shall be carefully coordinated to ensure an effective presentation. Equipment compatibility relative to the designer’s vision is a critical element.

The Contractor shall be responsible for testing of all electronic equipment, and for the successful installation of all electronic programs that are part of the exhibits, including those that are government-provided.

The process for production of Electronic Programs is as follows:

1. Pre Production: The Contractor shall provide the AV Production Plan and script, narrative, storyboard, or conceptual design for review and approval. The AV Production Plan shall describe all elements required, including a list of sources required to produce the program as outlined. The Contractor shall submit, at minimum, a draft and revised draft for review.

2. Production:

The Contractor shall research, procure, and obtain all materials to be included as content for each program. This includes, but is not limited to still images, film or video footage, artwork, music, sound effects, and professional talent. The Contractor shall submit proposed stock audio and video recordings and still imagery to the COR for review and approval.

Work-in-Progress Review I: Enough of the structure and content should be completed in this phase to evaluate the validity of the approach and to determine if changes or modifications are needed to meet the project objectives.

Interpretive Text: The Contractor shall incorporate, rewrite, edit, and/or write and edit original text, as needed.

Scripts: If video or audio is specified, a script is required unless provided as GFP.

Fully Executed Section: The Contractor shall submit one fully functioning representative section based on the flow chart for review and approval. If the program is complex and has numerous unique sections, multiple representative sections shall be submitted.

Graphics: In addition to the graphics presented in the fully functioning sections, a list of proposed graphics shall be submitted for review and approval.

Animations: Storyboards, graphic layouts, modeling, and sample demonstrations illustrating movement, shall be submitted as a part of the review process before the final execution of animation occurs.

3. Post-Production

a) Rough Cuts: The Contractor shall submit a rough cut for review. Multiple rough cuts and edit scripts may be required until approved by the COR. Each rough cut shall be submitted with a revised script that corresponds to the most current edited version of the program. If animation is included, conceptual designs for all animation elements shall be submitted electronically for review and approval.

License Agreements: The Contractor shall submit a narrative description or spreadsheet that accounts for the copyright sources of all audiovisual elements (images, video or film footage, artwork, graphics, animations, music, sound effects, interviews, etc.) proposed for use in the program—including public domain materials, purchased stock materials, and government-furnished materials—before the final project is produced. For those materials that are restricted, license agreements shall be submitted. Upon review and approval of the license agreements by the Contracting Officer, any license that fails to meet the requirements as specified in the task order shall be returned to the Contractor for revision. If the specified rights cannot be obtained, the Contractor shall replace the element unless written approval for a deviation is furnished by the Contracting Officer.

b) Release forms: The Contractor shall submit, electronically via email, scanned copies of all Service Release Forms for talent (narrators, interviewees, and other acquired material); and scanned copies of all license agreements and contracts acquired by the Contractor or copyrighted and restricted material being used in the production concurrent with the submission of the final fine cut.

c) Music Samples: Music samples from a minimum of three professional film composers or library music sources shall be submitted for review and approval unless otherwise specified in the task order. All samples shall be appropriate to the tone, mood, style, and pacing of the film.

d) Narrator Samples: A selection of a minimum of four narrator samples per voice role shall be submitted electronically for review and selection.

e) Lower-Thirds and Other On-Screen Text: Samples of proposed font and design style for any lower-third name identifications, graphics, credits, and any other on-screen text. Samples of proposed font and placement for SDH subtitles.

f) Fine Cuts: The Contractor shall submit a fine cut and edit script for review and approval prior to the final on-line edit and sound mix. Fine cuts shall include the approved library music of a selection of the approved composer’s music, sound effects, best resolution archival images or footage, draft motion graphics and/or animations, and all on-screen text and graphics (excluding credits). Multiple fine cuts and edit scripts may be required until approved by the COR. Each fine cut shall be submitted with a revised script that corresponds to the most current edited version of the program. The fine cut shall be revised until it is ready for the online edit.

g) On-Line Edit, Sound Design and Mix, and Color Correction: The Contractor shall submit the final edited version of the program with final sound design, mix and color correction for review and approval.

4. Accessibility

Submit scripts for Audio Description (AD) and Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing scripts to the COR for review and approval.

Submit a transcript describing each sound clip used in audio programs, for use by visitors who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, to the COR for review and approval.

For programs without audio, there shall be an icon or text indicating the program has no audio, placed either on-screen or in proximity to the program monitor. Submit proposed icon or text to the COR for review and approval.

5. Final Deliverable

Upon completion of the project, all elements shall be submitted to the COR in accordance with base contract. The Contractor shall provide a digital version of each final electronic program.

8. Accessibility Requirements

Interpretive media planned, designed, and fabricated for the US Fish and Wildlife Service shall follow the latest published version of base contract using the standards in the Programmatic Accessibility Guidelines for National Park Service Interpretive Media. These Guidelines are a combination of best practices, NPS and Department of the Interior directives, and federal laws. Federal laws include the Architectural Barriers Act, Sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act as amended, and the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act.

Accessibility requirements for visitors with specific disabilities shall be addressed within the designed exhibits. If design decisions pose particular challenges to accessibility (such as artifacts or objects behind glass), additional attention shall be paid to a full description of the accessibility solutions. See the Programmatic Guidelines for National Park Service Interpretive Media for requirements addressed under specific disabilities.

a. Audiovisual Accessibility for Interpretive Exhibits Every audio, silent video, and audiovisual program in every exhibit is required to provide descriptive audio, hearing assistance, captions, and/or navigation buttons, as follows:

a. Audio-Only Programs: Audio-only programs require hearing assist for the hard of hearing and captions for the deaf. The hearing assist requirement may be met using either sound wands with volume control and rest, or a FM transmitter and handheld receiver. Captions for the deaf are displayed on a monitor synched with the audio.

b. Silent Video Programs

Silent videos require descriptive audio for people who are blind or have low vision, and notification, via on-screen caption or label adjacent to the monitor, for the deaf or hard of hearing that the video is silent. Delivery of descriptive audio is provided in the exhibit through a headset jack, a sounds wand, or via Wi-Fi streaming in conjunction with the Exhibit Audio Description Tour app. When descriptive audio is delivered via headset jack, a label with the raised Audio Description symbol and headset icon is required.

c. Audiovisual Programs Audiovisual programs in exhibits require descriptive audio for people who are blind or have low vision, hearing assist for the hard of hearing, and captions for the deaf. Any of the delivery methods for audio-only programs and silent video programs may be used to meet these requirements.

d. Navigation Buttons Touch screen user interfaces require external control navigation buttons for people with limited mobility.

9. Review and Approval Process

· The Contractor shall submit design packages at 30%, 60%, 90%, and 100% completion for review.

· A minimum of three drafts of each panel’s text and graphic layout, prior to a final version, must be provided by the Contractor to the COR for review by Service staff.

· Prior to fabrication (at design pre-final 95% submission, or before final 100% submission), a hard copy (print) of all panel layouts will be sent both to the PL and station POC listed on page 1.

· Final 8"x 10" color laminate sample for each panel, or a sample of panels, for color matching and image resolution will be provided by the Contractor to the COR for approval before production.

· The Service shall be provided a minimum two-week review period at each major milestone.

· The Contractor shall incorporate all approved comments prior to proceeding.

· Submittals shall be sent via overnight delivery service unless otherwise specified in the scope of work below. Submittals shall be delivered seven (7) calendar days prior to scheduled presentations of the material. Electronic submittals shall be provided seven (7) calendar days prior to scheduled presentations of the material. The Contractor shall provide copies of any Microsoft Office submittals in an accessible 508 compliant format.

· Receive all reviewed submittals and take appropriate action according to the approval or rejection by the COR, as follows:

a. Approved Submittals – The Contractor shall ensure that all changes, revisions, or additions required by review comments are addressed and incorporated into future submittals.

b. Rejected Submittals - When submittals are rejected, the COR will notify the Contractor, in writing, identifying the reasons for rejection. The Contractor shall ensure that the submittal is completed and/or revised as required and resubmitted within the time scheduled by the COR. Reasons for rejection include:

1. Incomplete Submittals – Approval of the submittal is delayed because required elements are missing. The Contractor shall submit all missing elements.

2. b. Unacceptable Submittals – The submittal is rejected due to poor quality of work or work that does not otherwise meet the established project requirements. The Contractor shall submit a new submittal.

10. Copies and Deliveries

· One (1) electronic PDF copy of each document submittal are required.

· Two (2) copies of graphic prints and material samples are required.

· One (1) physical model of samples, mock-ups, and prototypes are required.

· One (1) digital sound track for any audio.

· One (1) digital for any audiovisual

11. Shop Inspections

· One (1) electronic PDF copy of each document submittal are required.

· Two (2) copies of graphic prints and material samples are required.

· One (1) physical model of samples, mock-ups, and prototypes are required.

· One (1) digital sound track for any audio.

· One (1) digital for any audiovisual

12. Quality Control

The contractor shall provide quality control to ensure that all elements of project work meet the requirements and that all modifications are implemented. The Contractor’s Project Manager shall provide routine inspections of in-house and subcontracted work and shall oversee the quality of work produced and implemented at all phases of the project. Any work found not acceptable or compliant with the specifications shall be corrected prior to inspection or review by the COR.

Government-Furnished Property

If government-furnished material is provided during the course of the project, the contractor shall receive, inspect, and inventory all government-furnished materials and ensure that this material is forwarded to the appropriate unit or person within the contractor’s organization for use in the project. The Project Manager shall notify the COR via email within seven (7) days after receipt if government-furnished materials are not satisfactory for their intended purpose. The Project Manager shall notify the COR via email as soon as possible, but no later than three (3) business days, if government- furnished materials are lost or damaged while in the contractor’s possession. The contractor shall be responsible for the security and protection of government furnished property or materials. Following acceptance of all work by the government, the contractor shall return to the COR all government-furnished property.

Government-Furnished Support

1) All pertinent drawings and technical design details of the site and sample structures.

2) Content experts for biological and cultural topics.

3) Refuge can provide content experts for accurately identifying wildlife species in contractor-selected photographs/illustrations for use

Use Rights

All original illustrations, photos, images (including video), and graphic layouts will become the exclusive property of the Service even though they may be stored at the Contractor’s facility to simplify the production of duplicate items as needed.

The Contractor shall acquire use rights and production quality copies of all third-party images and other intellectual property (IP) required to produce the graphic layouts in the exhibit as specified in base contract Attachment 1, Exhibit Planning, Design, and Fabrication Specifications, Section 17. The Contractor shall budget for the acquisition of 40% of use rights and production quality images and other IP used in the exhibits; the government has a catalog of historic and natural images and other IP that the Contractor shall evaluate for use in the exhibits.

This will be a not-to-exceed (NTE) contract line item (CLIN) for the acquisition of images and usage rights, not including labor. All costs associated with this work will be reimbursed on an actual documented cost basis. Additional information will be required with invoices requesting payment for this work

Points of Contact (POC)

Contracting POC Joni Dutcher, Contracting Officer Department of the Interior Servicing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service San Angelo, TX Joni_dutcher@fws.gov 571-447-8387

Refuge POC Karen Ceballos, Visual Information Specialist Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center Email: Karen_Ceballos@fws.gov Phone: (760) 917-8492

Station POC:

Josie Finley, Visitor Services Manager Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge Email: josie_finley@fws.gov Phone: 360-608-2059

(End of Section C)