2. MATOC Statement of Work (SOW).docx

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5YR IDIQ MATOC Common Stand Exams for Hoosier & Shawnee National Forest
Solicitation number
12444523Q0041
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4. CSE Field Guide - Shawnee.docx DOCX document
3. CSE Field Guide - Hoosier.docx DOCX document
2.3 Exhibit 3 – Plot-Tree Data Inspection Form.docx DOCX document
9. Experience Questionnaire.docx DOCX document
5. Maps - Hoosier.pdf PDF
RFQ 12444523Q0041.pdf PDF
2.2 Exhibit 2 – Plot-Tree Data Form.docx DOCX document
8. Indiana Statewide SCA WD 1981-1257.txt TXT text file
2.1 Exhibit 1 – Setting Data Form.docx DOCX document
6. Maps - Shawnee.pdf PDF
1. FS-Schedule of Items Template.xlsx XLSX spreadsheet
7. Illinois Statewide SCA WD 2003-0288.txt TXT text file
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MATOC Statement of Work (SOW)

US Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Statement of Work

Contents

Project4
Contracting Officer's Representative4
B.1. SCHEDULE OF ITEMS4
B.2. AGAR 452.216-734
C.1. INTRODUCTION5
C.1.1. Background5
C.1.2. Scope of Contract5
C.1.3. Location and Description5
C.2. DEFINITIONS6
C.3. GOVERNMENT PROVIDED DOCUMENTS-WEBSITES7
C.3.1. Services8
C.4. CONTRACTOR WORK REQUIREMENTS and STANDARDS8
C.5. CONTRACTOR FURNISHED UNIQUE SERVICES, ITEMS, PROPERTY9
C.5.1. Tasks and Critical Subtasks9
C.6. PLOT LOCATION AND ESTABLISHMENT9
C.6.1. Locating Stands to Be Examined9
C.6.2. Plot Location and Number9
C.6.3. Plot Establishment10
C.6.4. Site Index Trees10
C.7. COMMON STAND EXAM10
C.8. DATA COLLECTION10
C.8.1. Setting Form (Exhibit 2)11
C.8.2. Sample design12
C.8.3. Plot/Tree Data Form (Exhibit 3)12
C.8.4. Quality Control15
C.8.5. Work Plan and schedule15
C.8.6. Camping and Worksite Conditions15
C.9. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS SUMMARY16
D.1. LEFT BLANK17
E.1. INSPECTION and ACCEPTANCE17
E.2. CONTRACTOR QUALITY CONTROL PLAN17
E.2.1. Quality Control Plan17
E.2.2. Plot Inspections17
E.3. Acceptance and Rework17
E.3.1. Acceptance17
E.3.2. Rework18
F.1. DELIVERIES of PERFORMANCE18
F.2. DELIVERIES18
F.2.1. Contract Performance Time and Required Rate of Progress18
F.2.2. Contract Time18
F.2.3. Work Completed after the performance period19
F.2.4. Unfavorable Conditions19
F.3. FAR 52.236-6 SUPERINTENDENCE BY THE CONTRACTOR19
G.1. CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA19
G.1.1. SUBMISSION OF DATA AND INVOICES19
G.2. METHOD OF MEASUREMENT19
G.2.1. Re-measurement20
G.3. METHOD OF PAYMENT20
H.1. SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS20
H.2. Prework Conference21
I.1 LEFT BLANK21
J.1 EXHIBITS21

Project Hoosier/Shawnee MATOC IDIQ Common Stand Exams

Contracting Officer's Representative Hoosier National Forest Justin (Travis) Swaim

(812) 547-9237 justin.swaim@usda.gov

Shawnee National Forest Justin Dodson

(618) 658-1316 justin.dodson@usda.gov

B.1. SCHEDULE OF ITEMS

Common Stand Exam (CSE) Plots Shawnee and Hoosier National Forests. This is a five (5) year Performance Based, Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Multiple Award Task Order Contract (MATOC). Subsequent task orders will be issued for work to be done.

Notes schedule below is just a general overview, Contractor will fill out Excel spreadsheet for solicitation.

ITEM

NUMBER

DESCRIPTION
QTY
Unit
Unit Price
Total
0001
Shawnee National Forest - CSE using 10 BAF Prism (Est. Quantity 500-1000)
1000
Plots
$
$
0002
Shawnee National Forest - CSE using 20 BAF Prism (Est. Quantity 100-300)
300
Plots
$
$
0003
Hoosier National Forest - CSE using 10 BAF Prism (Est. Quantity 500-1000)
1000
Plots
$
$
0004
Hoosier National Forest - CSE using 20 BAF Prism (Est. Quantity 100-300)
300
Plots
$
$

B.2. AGAR 452.216-73

Minimum and Maximum Contract Amounts (FEB 1988).

During the period specified in FAR clause 52.216-18 Ordering, (08.01.2023 – 07.31.2028) the Government shall place orders totaling a minimum of $5,000.00, but not in excess $450K.

INVOICING

The "Submit Invoice-to" address for USDA orders is the Department of Treasury's Invoice Processing Platform (IPP). All invoices are to be submitted online via the electronic Invoice Processing Platform. This is a mandatory requirement initiated by the U.S. Department of Treasury and you can find more information at this website https://www.ipp.gov Your company must register at https://www.ipp.gov/vendors/enrollment-vendors to establish an account in order to submit an invoice on this project.

Contractor Acceptance Statement: By signing the offer, the Contractor agrees to all terms, conditions, and provisions included in the solicitation and agrees to furnish any awarded items at the price set in the schedule unless otherwise excepted as follows:

C.1. INTRODUCTION

C.1.1. Background The USDA-Forest Service Shawnee National Forest proposes to contract for technical forestry services to conduct the field phase of a Common Stand Exam (CSE) project. Its purpose is to obtain the site and setting characteristics required to identify stand conditions and capabilities in providing the Government information with which management determinations for natural resources will be made.

C.1.2. Scope of Contract Work shall consist of locating, establishing, measuring and recording data for sample plots. The Contractor shall furnish all personnel, materials, services, and facilities necessary for the project and performance of this contract. The work performed and the data collected shall be in compliance with the terms, specifications, conditions and provisions of this solicitation and the “Region 9 Common Stand Exam Field Guide,” - hereafter known as “CSE Handbook”. Current version can be found at NRM Field Sampled Vegetation (FSVeg) (usda.gov). If the contract specifications differ from the CSE Handbook, the contract shall take precedence.

This contract is a five-year Performance Based, Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Multiple Award Task Order Contract (MATOC). Once the minimum guarantee is met as stated in clause 452.216-73, the government is under no obligation to issue additional task orders.

C.1.3. Location and Description This solicitation is for Common Stand Exams on the Shawnee National Forest, Illinois and Hoosier National Forest, Indiana. Specific stand locations, and maps for each sub item will be provided with the task order. Stand lists and maps for the seed projects are attached to this solicitation. Compartment maps with stand boundary delineations will be provided with task order issuance.

Vicinity Map – Shawnee National Forest

Vicinity Map – Hoosier National Forest

C.2. DEFINITIONS

The following are definitions that refer to data elements and attributes for collecting Common Stand Exam data.

Calendar Days. Every day shown on the calendar, Sundays and holidays included.

Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). The on-site contract administrator for the Contracting Officer. The duties and responsibilities of the COR are defined in the letter of designation issued by the Contracting Officer.

Latitude. The north/south measurement of position that is perpendicular to the earth’s polar axis.

Longitude. An east/west measurement of position in relation to the Prime Meridian, an imaginary circle that passes through the north and south poles.

Microsites. Small areas atypical of the stand, such as wind-throw pockets, micro-drainage ways, seeps, well-rotted logs, or excessively rocky areas.

Navigation. Navigation is the process of traveling from one place to another and knowing where you are in relation to your desired course.

Plot Data Form. The Plot Data form is used to collect data at the plot level and is independent of the information collected at the setting level. This data is collected individually for all sample plots in the stand.

pdr (.cse) File. Personal Data Record is a file format containing filed data that has been created using ExamsPC software. The file extension is .cse.

Sample Design Form. The Sample Design form contains information about how the data was collected, which trees, shrubs and cover are measured, and how the measurements shall be converted to per-acre values.

Setting Data Form. The Setting Data form in used to collect data that uniquely identifies each stand.

Shape (.shp) File. Shape file is a format developed by ESRI and used in Arcinfo and other GIS packages. The file extension is .shp.

Stand. A stand is a community, particularly of trees, possessing sufficient uniformity as regards composition, age, spatial arrangement, or condition, to be distinguishable from adjacent communities, so forming a silvicultural or management entity.

Waypoint. A specific location saved in the gps receiver’s memory.

Quality Assurance. The actions taken by the Government to assess the results to determine that they meet contract requirements. The methods for quality assurance are described in the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP).

Quality Control. Those actions taken by a Contractor to control the production of outputs to ensure that they conform to the contract requirements. The methods for inspecting for quality are described in the Contractor’s Quality Control Plan (QCP)

C.3. GOVERNMENT PROVIDED DOCUMENTS-WEBSITES

The Government shall provide the Contractor the following listed materials, supplies, property or services, for use in the performance of this contract.

ITEM
DESCRIPTION
WHERE, WHEN, HOW
Project Area Map.
Map depicting all compartment locations for the project area.
Provided with task order.
Stand Summary Chart.
Table showing individual stand information and number of plots required.
Provided with task order.
Compartment Maps.
Individual maps with stand boundary delineations.

Provided with task order.

National Forest Map.
Provides road closure information and locations. 2 copies
Provided with task order.

Access behind locked gates

Some stands are behind Forest Road closures (locked gated). The Government will provide access as appropriate. Refer to C-4.1.4.
During period stand is being examined.
Data Collection and Inspection Forms
Data Collection and Inspection Forms provide information on data to be collected and quality of installed plots.
Provided at Prework meeting. Samples provided in Section J.
Field Instructions -Common Stand Examination Users Guide
Field Instructions handbook for performing Common Stand Exams.
Available from the following website:

www.fs.fed.us/nrm/fsveg/

Exams PC Software and instructions Exams CE Software
Data entry software.

Handheld Personal Data Recorder software.

This software is downloadable from the following website:

www.fs.fed.us/nrm/fsveg/#software

C.3.1. Services

1) At the Contractors request, the Government shall provide one review on the inspection procedures regarding quality assurance. This quality assurance assessment review shall be performed on one plot.

2) At the Contractors request, the Government shall accompany the Contractor on one plot to review data collection procedures.

3) At the Contractors request, the Government shall review the Exams PC data entry software.

C.4. CONTRACTOR WORK REQUIREMENTS and STANDARDS C.4.1. General C4.1.1. Performance period Multiple task order awards shall not change the required performance period for each item. If multiple items are awarded to one Offeror, the respective performance times shall run concurrently, not consecutively. Work may be performed on each item in succession, provided the required rate of progress is maintained. The Government shall issue a Notice to Proceed as soon as the weather and ground conditions are favorable for work. The count of contract time shall start on the date specified on the task order period of performance.

C4.1.2. Rate of progress The Contractor shall maintain the rate of progress specified in the work plan and schedule. The minimum acceptable rate of progress shall occur when the percent of work completed falls within 10 percent of the time used.

C.4.1.3. Access The project area shall be accessed by State, County or Forest roads. The Forest Service assumes no obligation to plow snow or do special maintenance to keep roads open. Stands are accessible by some combination of 2- or 4-wheel drive vehicle and foot travel.

The Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining all necessary permission, through privately owned land, to gain access to stand locations.

C.4.1.4 Locked gates In cases where stands are behind locked gates, authorization for limited motorized use may be granted. All requests for motorized travel of closed roads must be submitted in writing to the COR for specific roads and specific periods of time. The Contractor will be responsible to ensure that gates remain closed and locked at all times and will be subject to all other restrictions of administrative use. The Contractor shall be permitted to drive from the locked gate to the stand with only the minimum number of vehicles necessary for efficient transport of the crew. No access to Contractors or employees will be allowed behind locked gates after periods of work. Motorized access will not be permitted behind locked gates during turkey or deer hunting seasons. Contractor shall adjust work schedule to take the closure time into consideration. No Suspend Work Orders will be issued; contract time will run during this period. Any misuse of this authorization may result in revocation of the permission.

C.5. CONTRACTOR FURNISHED UNIQUE SERVICES, ITEMS, PROPERTY

C.5.1. Tasks and Critical Subtasks

(1) Upon award of a task order, the Contractor shall submit a work plan and schedule for completing data collection on each project area on the USDA-FS Shawnee National Forest land according to the specifications of this Contract and the CSE Handbook.

(2) Contractor may collect/record the setting data and plot/tree data with a portable data recorder using Exams PDR software or may collect the data on paper forms and record the data in a PC using the Exams PC software.

(3) Contractor shall provide appropriate completed setting data forms, plot/tree data forms and other required forms (identified in the solicitation and at the pre-work conference) in Exams PC (.cse) file format.

(4) Contractor shall provide GPS coordinates of plot centers.

(5) Contractor shall plot accurate plot locations on maps provided.

C.6. PLOT LOCATION AND ESTABLISHMENT

C.6.1. Locating Stands to Be Examined

(1) The Government will furnish to the contractor a list of compartment and stand numbers to be examined. Compartment maps showing the present boundaries of the stands to be examined will be provided. These compartment maps will be used as a reference. Remarks on inaccurate stand boundaries are desirable, but not required.

(2) During field examination, stand boundaries will be refined as needed based on differences in forest type, size, and density of forest vegetation, stand age, and other factors encountered which would affect management decisions.

C.6.2. Plot Location and Number

(1) The number of plots for each stand will be determined by the Government. Stands will be sampled by measurements in individual plots dispersed throughout the stand. The number of sample plots is based on the acreage of the stand. The following guide will be used to determine the number of sample locations needed in each stand. The number of plots required may be altered at the CORs discretion .

20 BAF
Conifer Forest Types
10 BAF
Hardwood Forest Types
Stand Acres
Number of sample (plot) locations
Stand Acres
Number of sample (plot) locations
1-3
1
1-3
1
4-6
2
4-6
2
7-10
3
7-10
3
11-20
4
11-20
4
21-30
5
21-30
5
31-40
6
31-40
6
41-60
7
41-50
7
61-80
8
51-60
8
81-100
9
61-70
9
101+
10 + 1 plot for every additional 25 acres
71-80
10
81-90
11
91-100
12
101+
12 + 1 plot for every additional 15 acres

Sample plot locations will be distributed evenly throughout each assigned stand. The distance between sample locations should not be less than three chains where possible. No plot center shall be located closer than 1 chain from the stand boundary. Plot center locations shall be adjusted if necessary to avoid special protection areas such as streamside zones, seeps, sinkhole ponds, etc. and be representative of the stand type.

C.6.3. Plot Establishment

(1) Sample plot centers will be identified on the ground using a cut shrub as a stake, unless otherwise agreed upon with the COR. Tie flagging on the stake to mark it. Tie another 18-24 inch length of flagging to a tree or branch at eye level near plot center. Write the stand number and plot number on this flagging using permanent ink. The Contractor shall provide colored flagging (color will be determined at the pre-work conference) which will last through all environmental conditions until inspections are completed. Trees will be sampled starting at North from plot cetner, moving around in a clockwise manner.

C.6.4. Site Index Trees

(1) One site tree shall be taken per stand inventoried. Record the diameter, total height, species, and age for each site tree. Select a site index tree of the proper species for the Forest Type and is one of the dominant or codominant trees within the stand (see page R9FG-47 & 48 for detailed description of site tree selection). The age shall be determined by using an increment borer. Diameter of site trees shall be measured to a tenth of an inch. The increment bore should reach the pith of the tree and age shall be the total rings counted. If the site index tree is not measured on a inventory plot, then record azimuth, bearing, and distance to the site tree from the nearest plot. Increment cores shall be placed back in the hole made by the increment bore and the site tree flagged with two flags (of determined color) that go completely around the bole of the tree.

C.7. COMMON STAND EXAM

(1) The Contractor shall locate, establish, measure and record data using variable (10 or 20 basal area factor) and fixed radius subplot that shall be taken at each designated sample point. CSE data shall be collected and recorded in accordance with the CSE Handbook unless specifically modified by this contract. The Contractor shall collect data necessary to complete the following forms Setting Data Form, Sample Design Form and the Tree Data form, as specified in, Chapter 4 Collecting and Recoding Data.

(2) The Contractor shall use appropriate codes in accordance with the CSE Handbook.

C.8. DATA COLLECTION

The following tables demonstrate the required fields for each form that is to be collected and recorded. All data shall be taken in accordance with the CSE Handbook. An “X” in the Exam Level column indicates the required fields for this solicitation.

C.8.1. Setting Form (Exhibit 2)

The Setting Form shall be used to record stand measurements, stand comments, sample point locations (site sketch and traverse notes if collected on paper), as well as design parameters and references.

Field Name Exam Level Quick Plot

Comments

Accuracy Standard

Data Source

Proclaimed Region
X
09
No Error
Government
Proclaimed National Forest
X
08 –Shawnee; 12-Hoosier
No Error
Government
District
X
See field 3 table below
No Error
Government
Location
X
Compartment #
No Error
Government
Stand Number
X
No Error
Government
Project Name
X
District Specific
No Error
Government
Ownership
X
USFS
No Error
Government
State
X
IL; IN
No Error
Government
County
X
See field 9 table below
No Error
Contractor
Administrative Forest
X
08 –Shawnee; 12 -Hoosier
No Error
Government
Date
X
No Error
Contractor
Examination Level
X
varies
No Error
Government
Exam Purpose
X
SE
No Error
Government
Existing Vegetation Cover Type
X
CSE User Guide Appendix E (a Forest specific list can be found in Forest CSE field guides)
No Error
Contractor
Structure
X
CSE User Guide 4-19 to 4-20
No Error
Contractor
Acres
X
No Error
Government
Precision Protocol
X
CSE_Q
No Error
Government
Examiner
X
No Error
Contractor

Stand Remarks 1/

X Brief & important comments on stand conditions.

N/A

Contractor

Field 3: District

CODE
SHAWNEE DISTRICT
02
Mississippi Bluffs
04
Hidden Springs
CODE
HOOSIER DISTRICT
02
Brownstown
04
Tell City

Field 9: County

Code
Illinois County
003
Alexander
059
Gallatin
069
Hardin
077
Jackson
087
Johnson
127
Massac
151
Pope
165
Saline
181
Union
199
Williamson
Code
Indiana County
013
Brown
025
Crawford
037
Dubois
071
Jackson
093
Lawrence
101
Martin
105
Monroe
117
Orange
123
Perry

C.8.2. Sample design

The Sample Design Form shall be used to record design parameters provided by the Government.

Required Form Type

Method Expansion Factor

Az

Condition Subpop Filter

Variable

Minimum Value
Maximum Value
TREE
BAF
10
ALL
DBH
2.0
999.99

Or

Form Type

Method Expansion Factor

Az

Condition Subpop Filter

Variable

Minimum Value
Maximum Value
TREE
BAF
20
ALL
DBH
2.0
999.99

And

Form Type

Method Expansion Factor

Az

Condition Subpop Filter

Variable

Minimum Value
Maximum Value
TREE
FRQ
700
OR
LIVE
DBH
0.01
1.99
LIVE
HGT
0.5
4.5

C.8.3. Plot/Tree Data Form (Exhibit 3)

The Plot/Tree Data Form shall be used to record tree measurement information. The Contractor shall use the following criteria for selecting trees:

· The Contractor shall use a 10 Basal Area Factor (BAF) prism in all hardwood forest types to tally all live or dead deciduous and coniferous trees ≥ 2.0” DBH or use a 20 BAF prism in conifer forest types to tally all live or dead coniferous and deciduous trees >. 2.0” DBH for each stand. Forest types known prior to data collection will determine BAF to be used regardless of accuracy. Trees will be recorded individually and in order starting with the tree to the right of 0˚ azimuth, moving clockwise.

· The Contractor shall install the 1/700 acre (4.45 foot radius) fixed subplot size used in tallying trees ≤ 1.99” DBH. The fixed radius subplot tallies all live conifer and deciduous trees 0.01” DBH to £ 1.99" DBH and all live conifer and deciduous trees 0.5’ height to £ 4.5’ height. Trees may be recorded in groups of same species and heights. Only heights are required for trees less than 4.5’. Both DBH and height are required for trees over 4.5’.

· Fixed radius plot size will vary with slope. Follow the table below

% Slope
Fixed Radius by Slope
0-9
4.45
10-17
4.49
18-22
4.54
23-26
4.58
27-30
4.63
31-33
4.67
34-36
4.72
37-39
4.76
40-42
4.81
43-44
4.85
45-47
4.90
48-49
4.94
50-51
4.98
51+
Refer to Region 9 Appendix I

Field Name Exam Level Quick Plot

Comments

Accuracy Standard
Data Source
Header Information
X
No Error
Contractor
Plot Number
X
No Error
Contractor
Latitude/Longitude
X
PDR/GPS necessary
10 meters
Contractor
Aspect
X
Degree direction plot faces
+/- 45o
Contractor
Slope
X
Estimate
Contractor
Tag ID
X
No Error
Contractor
Tree Status
X
Live (L) or dead (D) only
No Error
Contractor
Site/Growth Trees
X
1 per stand
No Error
Contractor
Tree Species
X
No Error
Contractor
Tree Count
X
No Error
Contractor
DBH
X
Trees ≥ 4.5 feet tall.
±10% 1/
Contractor
Height
X
Site trees 2/ Snags 3/
±5%
Contractor
Tree Age
X
Site trees only
±10%
Contractor
Snag Decay
X
1 class
Contractor
1/ Trees must be within one of the appropriate size classes (see dbh section).
2/ Site trees to nearest foot.

3/ Snags only need ocular estimate to nearest foot but there is no accuracy standard.

Latitude/Longitude

Degrees – maximum of three digits. A leading zero may be entered (i.e. 090).

Minutes – two digits.

Seconds – four digits. Seconds shall be rounded to the nearest hundredth (i.e. 17.36).

Maximum allowed error for plot center location is 10 meters.

Aspect. Record general direction from North in degrees towards which the plot faces. Ex. 0 = Flat (North), 90 = East, 180 = South, 270 = West, 999 = Indeterminate / Undulating.

Slope – Optional

Tag ID. Record a number, unique within each plot. On each plot, start with “1” and increment one number for each tree record. Trees ≤ 1.0” to 4.99” DBH may be grouped by DBH class and species. Trees ≥ 5.0” DBH shall be tallied individually. The Tag ID, in conjunction with the plot number, uniquely identifies each line of tree data in the setting.

Tree Status. The following tree class codes shall be used.

CODE
DESCRIPTION
L
Live
D
Dead

Site/Growth Trees. A minimum of one-site tree shall be recorded per stand. To facilitate inspection, all Site Trees shall be marked with two pieces flagging tied to the tree. A distance and azimuth from the nearest plot center (or GPS waypoint) shall be provided for off-plot site trees.

CODE
DESCRIPTION
S
Site tree on plot
F
Site tree off plot

Tree Species. Local tree list will be included with .cse file.

Tree Count. Trees in fixed radius plot ≤ 4.5 feet may be grouped by height class and species. Trees ≥ 4.5 feet shall be tallied individually. Tree count is based on the 10 or 20 factor basal area tally for each plot. If necessary, the distance measurement should be taken from the face of the tree to plot center and compared to tables in Appendix J of the CSE Users Guide. A tree within the limiting distance is “in” and beyond the limiting distance is “out”.

DBH. The following size classes (in inches) shall be used. The accuracy standard (option 1) is required unless specifically modified in the solicitation where more accuracy is required (option 2 will be used in that case).

DBH Classes
Code
1.00 to 2.99
2.0
3.00 to 4.99
4.0
5.00 to 6.99
6.0
7.00 to 8.99
8.0
9.00 to 10.99
10.0
11.00 to 12.99
12.0
13.00 to 14.99
14.0
Etc.
Etc.

The DBH accuracy standard is all trees must be within a dbh class that is within 10% of the actual tree measurement. For example, if a tree actually measures 14.1 inches in dbh (10%+/- provides a range of 12.69 to 15.51 inches), then this tree could be correctly coded as a 12, 14 or 16 inch tree. However, the contractor should be diligent about tree measurement and for this reason if any more than three trees on any one plot are outside their actual dbh class (14.0 inch in this example) then every tree beyond the three will be considered an error.

If any tree is recorded more than one class off its acceptable range (12, 14 or 16 in the example) the error will be doubled. For example, if a tree actually measures 14.1 inches in dbh but is recorded as 20 inches, the error would be doubled.

Snag/Decay Class: The following table is from the CSE Field Guide and should be recorded with a rating from 1-5.

Code
Bark
Heartwood Decay
Sapwood

Decay

Limbs
Top

Breakage

Bole Form
Time

Since Death

1
Tight, intact
Minor
None to incipient
Mostly Present
May be present
Intact
1-5 years
2
50% loose or missing
None to advanced
None to incipient
Small limbs missing
May be present
Intact
>5 years
3
75% missing
Incipient to advanced
None to 25%
Few remain
Approx. 1/3
Mostly intact
>5 years
4
75% missing
Incipient to advanced
25%+
Few remain
Approx. 1/3 to ½
Losing form, soft
>5 years
5
75%+ missing
Advanced to crumbly
50%+ advanced
Absent
Approx. ½+
Form mostly lost
>5 years

C.8.4. Quality Control The Contractor shall prepare a Quality Control Plan as described in Section E.2. - Contractor Quality Control Plan. The Contractor shall inspect the work in accordance with the accepted Quality Control Plan.

C.8.5. Work Plan and schedule

(1) Upon task order award, the Contractor shall prepare a work plan and schedule that demonstrates work will be completed within the performance period described in individual orders. The Contractor shall provide a general plan with the technical quotation. A supplementary plan and schedules will be provided after issuance of a task order, but before start of work.

(2) The Contractor shall advise the Contracting Officer or COR of any periods that the Contractor will not be working that is not specified in the accepted Work Plan.

(3) The Contractor may update the work plan when work is in progress for the Contracting Officer’s approval.

C.8.6. Camping and Worksite Conditions If the Contractor recommends camping, the Contractor shall prepare a Camping and/or Worksite Plan and operate in a manner that will protect the environmental resources and the public facilities. The Contractor shall be aware of and abide by the rules of the Shawnee and Hoosier National Forest applicable to forest visitors. The Contractor is responsible for campsite cleanup and employee conduct while camping on National Forest land. Requests for camping behind locked gates will be evaluated on a case-by-case bases by the COR. Contractor shall submit camping requests in writing, specifying exact time and dates of desired use behind locked gates. If approved, approval will be granted by the Government in writing.

C.9. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS SUMMARY

The following describes the major items in this solicitation with the performance requirements for the work described.

Performance Requirements

Performance Standard Acceptable Quality Level

Gov’t Method of Assessment

Deductions

GPS Acquisition
Quality meets or exceeds performance standard of + 3 meters.
Yes or No
COR or inspector conduct periodic monitoring of operations and random plots consistent with Common Stand Exam Inspection Form and the standards stated in Field Guide.
· The Contractor’s quality will be reflected in the performance evaluation either as acceptable or unacceptable.
GPS Data Delivery
Quality meets or exceeds performance standard.
Yes or No
COR or inspector conduct monitoring of delivered data.
· The Contractor’s quality will be reflected in the performance evaluation either as acceptable or unacceptable.

Common Stand Exam Data Collection

Quality meets or exceeds performance standard of < 10.00 percent error.
Yes or No
COR or inspector conduct random plot sampling consistent with the standards found on the Common Stand Exam Inspection Form.
· The Contractor’s quality will be reflected in the performance evaluation either as acceptable or unacceptable.

· If all Form Scores <20 percent and Total Score < 10 percent work is acceptable.

· If any Form Score > 20 percent, or if Total Score > 10 percent inspection block is unacceptable and returned for rework.

Common Stand Exam Data Delivery
Quality meets or exceeds performance standard.
Yes or No
COR or inspector conduct monitoring of delivered data.
· The Contractor’s quality will be reflected in the performance evaluation either as pass or fail.

· Inspection blocks deficient in specifications under section E.3.2 shall be returned to the Contractor for rework.

Work Plan and Schedule

Work meets schedule as per the accepted work plan.
Yes or No
COR and inspector conduct periodic monitoring.
· The Contractor’s ability to maintain the work schedule and complete work on schedule will be reflected in the performance evaluation as either pass or fail.

· Work not completed on schedule is subject to Default and may result in assessment of actual costs.

D.1. LEFT BLANK

E.1. INSPECTION and ACCEPTANCE

E.2. CONTRACTOR QUALITY CONTROL PLAN

E.2.1. Quality Control Plan The Contractor shall provide a Quality Control Plan (QCP) with the technical quotation. The Contractor shall supplement the QCP within 10 days of contract award based on items awarded to the Contractor and Government comments.

The general QCP must demonstrate how the Contractor will assure quality meets the requirements and specifications of the contract. It shall specify how quality will be monitored to assure the performance standards are met; the supervision of crew and work; and the personnel that will be performing the quality control. Quality control includes the monitoring of quality while work is in progress.

E.2.2. Plot Inspections Inspection of the plot data will occur on a minimum of 5% of the plots within the block. Inspections of 5% will be the norm unless problems are discovered. Additional plot inspections (no more than 10% of total plots) will be checked to determine if work is acceptable or not.

E.3. Acceptance and Rework E.3.1. Acceptance

(1) Acceptance will be determined based on compliance with the contract specifications. Noncompliance will result in non-acceptance of the work. If the Contractor’s work is determined to be unacceptable, the Government may initiate any remedies described in FAR 52.246-4 Inspection of Services.

(2) When the Contractor’s inspection results fall below the performance standard of < 10 percent for Total Score; based on the Contractor’s quality control inspection and verified by the Government monitoring, acceptance and payment will not be made until the deficiency(s) has been corrected.

(3) Quality assurance assessment and payment will be made only on completed stands unless otherwise agreed upon by the Contracting Officer.

(4) The Government shall initiate a pass-fail check of specified standards and procedures for each inspection block. Inspection blocks deficient in the following specifications are unacceptable on a "pass-fail" basis and the entire inspection block shall be returned to the Contractor for rework. The determination of noncompliance with these items may be made during the office edit or during field inspection.

I. All electronic data must be submitted to the Forest Service in a timely manner.

II. Stands submitted with incomplete and/or inaccurate information on any electronic form.

III. Electronic data must not contain error and must be readable by Government computers.

IV. An error found in the Sample Design

V. All stands must have the prescribed number of sample plots examined.

VI. All plots must be evenly distributed throughout the stand.

VII. All plot centers must be at least one chain from the stand boundary and must fall within the stand boundary.

VIII. Any sample plot center which cannot be located because of improper labeling, improper reference point labeling, improper GPS referencing or for any reason attributable to noncompliance with specifications.

IX. Any tree with a discrepancy in tree status between live and dead.

X. Any tree with a missing or incorrect tree species on live trees > 5.0” DBH.

XI. Any stand without a measured site tree.

E.3.2. Rework

(1) Upon notification to the Contractor of a failed inspection block (total score of >10% or individual form >20%), the Contractor shall be required to rework all forms on every plot within the inspection block before beginning work on another inspection block. This will be at no cost to the Government. At the Governments option, during a rework the Contractor may be required to use a different colored ribbon at each plot center. The COR shall specify the color of the ribbon.

(2) The Government is not required to provide more than two quality assurance assessments on any single inspection block. Results of last quality assurance assessment will supercede any prior results for determining acceptability and payment. Failure to pass two quality assurance assessments on a single inspection block may result in the contract being in default.

(3) The Government will assess the Contractor the actual costs of conducting any additional quality assurance. Items that may be included in the actual damages may include wages of the COR and Government inspector(s), costs of vehicles, meals and lodging.

(4) Potential contractors for specific projects are urged and expected to inspect the site where services are to be performed and to satisfy themselves regarding all general and local conditions that may affect the costs of contract performance, to the extent that the information is reasonably obtainable. In no event shall failure to inspect the site constitute grounds for a claim after contract award.

F.1. DELIVERIES of PERFORMANCE

F.2. DELIVERIES

F.2.1. Contract Performance Time and Required Rate of Progress The Contractor shall maintain progress at a rate that will assure completion within the performance period. The minimum acceptable rate of progress shall occur when the percent of work completed falls within 10% of the time used.

F.2.2. Contract Time The Contractor shall start work promptly after receipt of a Notice to Proceed. The Contractor shall maintain progress at a rate that will assure completion within the stated contract time. All quotes items must be completed by the required completion date. Standard contract time will be 180 days and it is required that Contractor(s) submit a minimum of 10% of work for inspection/acceptance within 30 calendar days of effective date of Notice to Proceed, 50% of the respective Contractor's work must be completed and submitted for inspection/acceptance within 90 calendar days of effective date of Notice to Proceed, and 100% of the respective Contractor’s work must be completed, inspected, and accepted before 180 calendar days. Contract time may vary depending on size of individual task orders. A general rule will be 120 days for orders up to 500 plots, 180 days for orders over 500 plots. The Government will issue A Notice to Proceed as soon as weather, vegetation, and ground conditions are favorable for work on one or more of the areas. Contract time will start (1) on the date specified on the Notice to Proceed.

F.2.3. Work Completed after the performance period If the Contractor fails to complete work within the contract time, and is allowed to work beyond that period, the Contractor will be assessed actual damages. Items to be included in the actual damage includes but is not limited to: wages of the COR and Government inspector(s) for quality assurance after the performance period, costs of vehicles, meals, and lodging that are incurred while administering the contract after the performance period. The Forest Service retains all other rights available to it for late performance including termination for default.

F.2.4. Unfavorable Conditions Adverse weather and/or road conditions may prevent access to the work sites during the contract period. In addition, hunting pressure during deer and turkey seasons may create adverse working conditions. Upon written request, the Contracting Officer may authorize additional contract time if adverse conditions prevent access to the work sites for ten or more consecutive days.

F.3. FAR 52.236-6 SUPERINTENDENCE BY THE CONTRACTOR

At all times during performance of this contract and until the work is completed and accepted, the Contractor shall directly superintend the work or assign and have on the worksite a competent superintendent who is satisfactory to the Contracting Officer and has authority to act for the Contractor.

G.1. CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

G.1.1. SUBMISSION OF DATA AND INVOICES

(1) The Contractor shall submit completed payment items within seven (7) days after completion of work.

(2) The unit of measure shall be the plot as described in CSE Handbook. Each inspection block shall be a minimum of 30 plots and a maximum of 150 plots. Contractor may deviate from the min/max at the COR’s approval.

(3) The Contractor shall submit with each inspection block the following deliverables:

(a) Contractor shall provide the appropriate completed electronic setting data forms, tree/plot data and other required forms in Exams PC/PDR (.cse) file format.

(b) Contractor shall plot updated stand delineations on a map if applicable.

(c) Stand list containing stand numbers with corresponding number of plots, examiner name(s) and date(s).

(d) A back-up copy must be held by the contractor until work has been accepted and payment made.

G.2. METHOD OF MEASUREMENT

(1) The Government’s quality assurance will not be initiated until the Contractor submits all data and inspection forms for the inspection block. All linear and area measurements under this contract are measured on a horizontal plane within the established boundaries.

(2) If during the office inspection, the COR determines a discrepancy trend is occurring, the COR shall notify the Contractor of the finding.

(a) If during the field inspection, the COR notices a discrepancy trend developing, the Government may visit plots not selected in the sample, to review the field(s) in question. These plots will be used to determine if a discrepancy trend does exist. The COR shall notify the Contractor of the findings.

(b) If any discrepancy trend continues in any quality assurance assessment(s), the inspection block(s) will be returned for rework.

G.2.1. Re-measurement If the COR’s original quality assurance assessment results are unacceptable to the Contractor; the Contractor has the option to request, in writing, a re-measurement. Upon the requested re-measurement the Government will conduct a minimum 2 percent sample. Requests for re-measurement shall be made within five (5) calendar days after receipt of non-compliance and shall contain documentation to support the probability that an error exists. The Contractor may accompany the Contracting Officer’s Representative during the re-measurement.

(1) If re-measurement supports a variance of <5 percent, there will be no adjustment and the Government’s final results will supersede the original assessment and be used for the basis of acceptance. The Contractor shall pay for the actual cost of re-measurement.

(2) If re-measurement results supports a variance of >5 percent, acceptance shall be based on the re-measurement results and the Government shall pay for the re-measurement.

G.3. METHOD OF PAYMENT

Calculation of Acceptable Scores A point deduction is given for each deficient entry or procedure within an inspection block. Acceptable tolerance levels for individual measurements are shown on the Inspection Forms. Any item or measurement indicated by inspection to be outside these tolerance levels shall be assigned a point deduction. Point deductions shall be calculated for each form within the inspection block and then averaged for a Total Score. An inspection block may fail based on a Form Score or the Total Score.

(1) Scores for each Inspection Form are determined by the following method. The total point value is calculated by multiplying the point value of a field times the number of lines of data in that field. The number of errors, corresponding to each field, found during the inspections of the inspection block are recorded in Column C-Number of Errors. The Deduction is calculated by multiplying Column C-Number of Errors by Column A-Point Value. The Point Deductions are then totaled and divided by the total point value to determine the Total form Score.

Total Form Score = (Deduct Points ÷ Total Points) x 100 = percent error.

(2) The Total Score is calculated by averaging all the Form Scores. Errors in any field that have a Point Value of "unacceptable" will fail and the entire inspection block shall be returned to Contractor for rework.

(a) All Form Scores < 20.00 percent and Total Score < 10.00 percent = acceptable.

(b) Any Form Score ≥ 20.00 percent = unacceptable, all forms from entire inspection block, shall be returned for rework. No payment.

(c) Total Score > 10.00 percent = unacceptable, all work from entire inspection block shall be returned for rework. No payment.

(3) An inspection block is considered complete when all work has been assessed for quality assurance and accepted for payment.

H.1. SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

KEY PERSONNEL

(1) The Contractor shall assign to this contract the key personnel identified in their technical quotation and that list may include the following:

(a) Contractor Representative

(b) Foreman/Woman

(2) The Contractor shall make no substitutions of key personnel without notifying the Contracting Officer within a reasonable timeframe and in advance and shall submit justification (including proposed substitutions) in sufficient detail to permit evaluation of the impact on the contract. Proposed substitutes should have comparable qualifications to those of the persons being replaced.

(3) The Contractor shall make no diversion of personnel without the written consent of the Contracting Officer.

(a) The contract will be modified to reflect any approved changes of key personnel.

H.2. Prework Conference Prior to commencement of work, the Contractor shall attend a meeting to discuss the contract terms, deviations/additions to the Contract, work performance requirements, and safety. Also at this meeting such items as work progress schedule, camping/worksite plan and communications shall be finalized in writing.

I.1 LEFT BLANK

J.1 EXHIBITS

EXAMPLE

Exhibit 1
Setting Data Form
Exhibit 2
Plot/Tree Data Form
Exhibit 3
Plot Tree Data Inspection Form

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