ATTACHMENT_06_-_140P8625Q0016__-_QUESTIONS_and_ANSWERS__0002.pdf

RFQ 140P8625Q0016 – AMENDMENT 02

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Site Visit Schedule: February 10, 2025 at 11:00 AM

Site Visit Meet-up Location: 900 Beach Street, San Francisco, CA 94109

SAFR POC: Micah Wright, 415-859-0898, email: micah_wright@nps.gov

QUESTIONS/ANSWERS:

1. Measures for Historically Sensitive Areas:

Could you provide any specific measures or additional precautions that the National Park

Service requires or recommends for work near historically sensitive areas, such as the Fort

Mason Wall and Cable Car operations? Understanding the nuances of working in these locations will help us plan effectively and minimize any potential disruptions or risks to the historic fabric and public safety.

ANS: Regarding the cable car turnaround location, work will have to be split up into 2-3 days in order to keep from negatively impacting cable car operations. Specifically, only one side can be closed at a time. As seen on the map, one side has two work zones, and the other side one work zone. The closure plan needs to be communicated to the NPS at least two weeks prior to commencement of work.

Examples and direction addressing protection of the historic fabric and public safety are already listed in the SOW. Anything further we require the contractor to walk the site to understand particulars/logistics. Note: All contractors attending the walkthrough should read and understand the SOW before attending.

2. Pruning Techniques for Listed Tree Species:

The Scope of Work references several tree species, such as Metrosideros excelsa and

Ulmus parvifolia. Could you confirm whether the National Park Service has preferred pruning techniques or standards for these species to achieve optimal long-term health and aesthetic outcomes? This information will help ensure our approach aligns with the

Park’s arboricultural goals.

ANS: Pruning techniques have been addressed in the SOW which states NPS' expectations. Abide by these details, regardless of arboricultural consideration, when bidding this project.

3. The pricing schedule has posed a challenge for calculating costs as labor hours are estimated. Would it be acceptable to provide a price per tree (31 each) or a price for the overall project (1 job)?

ANS: Per posted RFQ, the project is a Firm-Fixed-Price service, one project. We need the overall cost of the project to have comparable with the other bids. Please submit your best bid/quotation showing the TOTAL bid amount per RFQ, SOW, and Service Requirements.

4. What is the required license?

ANS: In the SOW we call out this regarding certification, "All work shall be performed by a qualified tree service contractor who is an ISA certified Arborist and understands arboriculture." Also, the park, SAFR, will require a State of California, C-49 (Tree and Palm

Contractor) license.

5. Professional Considerations & Contractor Participation:

*The RFQ does acknowledge contractor indemnity in cases where required practices differ from BMPs. However, ISA Certified Arborists adhere to strict professional standards, and many view deviations from best practices as conflicting with their code of ethics and long-term tree care principles.

*As a result, some qualified arborists may be hesitant to participate, not due to concerns about government intent but rather due to their commitment to established arboriculture methodologies.

Potential Long-Term Impacts on Trees & Future Costs:

The feedback highlighted potential long-term effects of certain pruning techniques, including:

*Shortened safe useful life expectancy of trees.

*Increased risk of weak branch attachment, leading to safety hazards.

*Greater susceptibility to decay, reducing overall tree health.

*Higher future maintenance costs due to necessary corrective pruning.

ANS: NPS-SAFR is well aware that some direction outlined in the scope deviates from arboricultural standards. We are also aware of the risks regarding tree health and will not hold the contractor responsible for any negative impacts resulting from the direction. After award, the

NPS-SAFR will work closely with the contractor in these areas to ensure the best possible outcome.