A04-_Juniper_Woodland_Inventory_SOW_Edited.docx

STATEMENT OF WORK

1.0 GENERAL

1.1 Introduction

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) High Desert District (HDD), Rawlins Field Office (RFO) is contracting to conduct Stand Exams on woodland survey units to describe vegetation in terms of stand structure and composition, density, basal area, stand volume, understory trees and vegetation and other site characteristics in woodland stands.

Location and Size of Project Areas: Project areas are located within BLM HDD RFO , located in South Central Wyoming. See Project Vicinity Map (Attachment 1), showing the general area.

Stands to be surveyed can range in size from 2 to 400 acres and are split into 4 prioritized areas which covers over 12,569 acres (See Maps).

Priority 1: 1,893 Priority 2: 3,730 Priority 3: 1,322 Priority 4: 5,624

Stands are typically, Phase 2 and 3 woodlands. All stands may contain remnant large, old trees (See old tree characteristics below).

Environmental Conditions: Weather conditions may include snow and wet conditions which may lead to road closures. A Contractor may start in one area and be moved to another area should a closure occur. The performance time is wide enough to cover these circumstances.

1.2 Access to Project Areas

Road access will be over BLM, county, and private road systems with a variety of surfaces, including paved, gravel, or natural/dirt. Some survey units may involve traversing by foot over steep, rough, or uneven terrain and may require a walk-in of up to one (1) mile.

Access to units will be provided through federal lands and roads with existing ROWs. If the contractor wishes to access units through other land ownerships, they must secure those rights with those landowners.

If an all-terrain vehicle is used, it shall be of such design that it will travel over rough, uneven terrain and not create wheel ruts and channels. The all-terrain vehicle must be approved by the Government. Any ATV(s) used will be cleaned of mud, dirt, seeds, sawdust, excess oil and grease, etc. that could contain noxious or invasive weed seed prior to entry onto BLM lands. Cleaning includes pressure washing the ATV undercarriage, tires, wheel wells, grille and inside bumpers to remove materials that could contain weed seed.

Use of 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive vehicles on natural surface roads is permitted. Vehicles used on dirt roads will be cleaned of mud, dirt, seeds, excess oil and grease, etc. that could contain noxious or invasive weed seed prior to entry onto BLM lands. Cleaning includes pressure washing vehicles undercarriage, tires, wheel wells, grille and inside bumpers to remove materials that could contain weed seed.

Locked gates: The survey unit may be behind locked gates which will require BLM keys, private keys, or both. BLM will identify ownership of non-BLM gates on maps and will provide contact information of gate owner to Contractor. Details regarding access will be discussed at the pre-work conference. If gates are locked with BLM locks, keys shall be issued to the Contractor by the COR/PI at the appropriate BLM office. All gates with locks shall be locked immediately after entry or exit by the Contractor.

1.4 Notification of Cessation or Restart of Work

The Contractor will notify the COR whenever operations cease for five (5) or more days and will notify the COR before starting operations after a shutdown of five (5) or more days.

1.5 Survey Unit Boundaries

The survey unit boundaries will be identified through stand delineation and approved before the beginning of field work and will be identified on Project Area Maps.

2.0 DEFINITIONS

· Age Tree: A live tree assigned with the tree flag “A” if computer selected or “fA”, if user “forced”, that requires total breast height age (BHA), 5-year, and 10-year radial growth measurement data.

· Basal Area Factor (BAF): Metric used in variable-radius plots which makes it possible to convert stem count per plot to basal area per acre.

· Bole: The main stem or trunk of a tree.

· Borderline Tree: A tree which is difficult to judge as being "in" or "out" of the variable-radius plot because it is located at a distance from plot center which is nearly equal to the BAF plot radius for a tree of its diameter.

· Breast Height (BH): A measured point, which is 4.5 feet (54 inches) above ground level on the uphill side of the tree.

· Canopy Base Height (ft): The lowest point above the ground at which there is a contiguous, sufficient amount of canopy fuel to propagate a fire vertically into the canopy (LANDFIRE, https://landfire.gov/cbh.php). Canopy base height is a stand level measurement that provides an index for crown fire initiation and should account for dense dead vertical fuels (e.g., lichens, needle-drape, dense dead branches) that could provide a conduit for entrance of a surface fire into the crown.

· Canopy Layer: A relative height grouping classification based upon one third incremental differences:

Layer 1: Topmost layer of defined crown class trees in a stand or survey unit comprising 10 % or more of the total crown cover of the stand or survey unit. Layer 1 is generally comprised of dominant trees and co-dominant trees. May include intermediate and overtopped trees in even aged DF stands and saplings in younger stands.

Layer 2: A layer of defined crown class trees that are on the average less than 2/3 the average height of the topmost layer (Layer 1) and comprise greater than 10% of the total crown cover. Layer 2 is generally composed of shade tolerant conifers.

Layer 3: A layer of defined crown class trees that are on the average less than 1/3 the height of the topmost layer (Layer 1) and comprise greater than 1% of the total crown cover. Layer 3 is generally comprised of saplings and seedlings.

· Configuration File: A file that specifies the settings, requirements, and behavior of the EcoSurvey software data collection program for the Handheld Personal Computer (HHPC) or Android field data collection device.

· Count Tree: A tally tree with no tree flag assigned by the Handheld Personal Computer (HHPC) or Android field data collection device.

· Cover Percent: Visual percent cover by a given species for the vegetation sub-plot. At the tree plot level, an ocular estimate of the overhead cover of live crown and foliage as seen from plot center.

· Crown Class: A description of the relative position of the tree crown with respect to surrounding competing trees.

· Crown Ratio: The ratio of the length of live crown relative to total tree height, expressed as a percentage and commonly referred to as percent live crown. For trees of uneven crown ratio length, lower branches on the longer side are visually grouped to fill in the upper portion until a full, even crown is generated. Also known as compacted crown ratio.

· Dead Tree: A tree no longer alive (snag). A tree devoid of viable meristematic tissue, live foliage, live branches or live buds. A tree with one or more live branches would be classified as a live tree.

· Diameter at Breast Height (DBH): The diameter in inches of the tree bole outside the bark measured from the uphill side of the tree at a point 4.5 feet (54 inches) above ground level.

· Diameter Root Collar (DRC): the diameter measured at the root collar or at the natural ground line, whichever is higher, outside the bark.

· Dominant Species: The tree species most often observed occupying the dominant or codominant crown positions in a stand or survey unit. (Typically, the species comprising 50% or more of the trees per acre).

· Fallen Tree: A tree no longer primarily supported by the strength of its own roots and leaning at an angle greater than 45 degrees from vertical.

· Fixed-Radius Plot: A circular plot with a given radius measured horizontally from the plot center.

· Form Point: The point on the bole where trees are determined to be "In" or "Out" when using variable plots. This point is at breast height.

· Fuel Model: A complete set of fuel inputs for the mathematical fire spread model (Rothermel 1972). A fuel model (Scott and Burgan 2005)[footnoteRef:2] will be assigned using a local photo series to improve consistency of fuel model assignments (e.g., Perchemlides, Metlen and Duwal, 2020)[footnoteRef:3]. [2: Scott, J. H., and R. E. Burgan. 2005. Standard fire behavior fuel models: A comprehensive set for use with Rothermel's surface fire spread model. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station RMRS-GTR-153. https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/9521] [3: Perchemlides, K., K.L. Metlen, and P. Duwal. 2020. Ashland forest all-lands restoration supplement to the 2005 Scott and Burgan standard fuel model photo guide. The Nature Conservancy. https://tnc.box.com/s/a7f9a0klrqo9rkw415k57ad18gd7skbv]

· Fuel Photo Series ID: Photo series guides used to describe typical fuel loadings by major cover types and geographical area. Each picture is linked to intensively sampled fuel loadings. These photo series are used to visually estimate fuel loadings by matching the picture with current conditions observed in the field. Using the photo series guide specified, simply match the picture that best describes current fuel conditions with your stand conditions then record the locally designated code for that picture.

· HDCP: Handheld Data Collection Program. Data file format of downloaded handheld data.

· HHPC: Handheld Personal Computer. A handheld personal computer used to collect, store and download stand exam data.

· Height Tree: A tally tree assigned with a computer-generated tree flag “H”, or a user “forced” tree flag “fH”. A user-rejected Height tree is denoted by an “rH”.

· Height to Break: The height measurement for a standing tree with a broken or missing top, measured from the ground to point on the bole where the break occurred.

· "In" Tree: A tree whose diameter is large enough to subtend the fixed critical angle of the basal area factor being used in variable plot sampling. Additionally, a tree having 50 percent or more of its bole (measured at ground level) within the fixed plot boundary. Trees meeting these criteria will comprise the set of tally trees for each plot.

· Limiting Distance: A calculated distance used to determine whether a borderline tree is truly "in" or "out" of the variable-radius plot.

· Line Transect: For the purpose of this exam, it is a planar intersection technique of sampling down woody material.

· Measure Tree: A tally tree with a Height, or Site Tree flag requiring measurement and classification data in addition to that required by a Count Tree.

· Merchantable DBH: The minimum diameter at breast height for trees measured on the variable plot will be 6.9 inches unless otherwise specified. This diameter will be specified on the configuration setting.

· Non-Forest Site: A definable site or area within a Survey Unit or stand 1/5-acre or larger in size not capable of maintaining at least 10 percent stocking of forest trees and those sites which have been converted to non-forest uses (e.g., rock outcrops, roads, rock pits, utility corridors).

· Old Tree: An EcoSurvey Tree Flag (O) used by the examiner to identify trees which meet the following criteria to Characterize the extent, if any, of old juniper The presence, density, and location of old juniper trees provide clues as to the historical plant community structure and the degree of encroachment or stand densification. Old juniper trees typically have two or more of the following characteristics (Miller et al. 2005):

a. Flattened, rounded, or uneven top

b. Spreading crown

c. Large branches near the base of the tree (open stands only)

d. Large dead branches, missing bark, and abundant light green lichen

e. Thick fibrous bark with well-developed vertical furrows

f. Leader growth in the upper ¼ of the tree usually less than 1 in/yr (leaders difficult to identify)

This flag prompts EcoSurvey to access a different, more appropriate set of volume equations for these individual trees.

· “Out" Tree: A tree not meeting the requirements for an "in" tree for a variable or fixed radius plot.

· Prism Factor: Same as Basal Area Factor.

· Project Area: Geographical area encompassing all survey units in contract.

· Radial Growth: Measured from an increment core bored at right angles to the tree bole at DBH. When measuring radial growth, do not include the bark, phloem, current year’s spring wood, or the current year’s summer wood. Identify and count the number of rings for the most recent and complete 5-year and 10-year periods and measure this growth in 20ths of an inch.

· Ratio Sampling: A variable plot sample system whereby a percentage of the tally trees are selected for specific measurements. The HDCP randomly selects a predetermined percentage of Height measure trees.

· Representative: The comparative similarity of an area of a stand to the surrounding area.

· Sapling: A coniferous species tree that occurs within the fixed plot radius that is 4.5 feet tall or taller with a DBH less than the minimum merchantable DBH.

· Seedlings: Trees less than 4.5 feet in height within the fixed radius plot.

· Site Tree: A representative, live tree (normally formed dominant or co-dominant tree void of defects, damage, insects or pathogens) upon which measurements are taken to establish the relationship between tree age and tree height. One site tree will be measured on every other plot. Site trees will generally be on the plot but may be taken off-plot when no suitable on-plot site trees exist. Examiner will assign a tree flag “S” that requires a combination of the same data measurements as taken on both Height and Age trees.

· Standing Tree: A live tree rooted in the ground primarily supported by its roots and leaning at an angle of 45 degrees or less measured from vertical.

· Strata: A unit area having trees of similar characteristics (age, species, composition, density) from which the collected data will be analyzed as a single stand. The reporting unit used for EcoSurvey software reporting. Sample plot design is set at the stratum level. A Survey Unit contains one or more strata.

· Survey Unit: That portion of a Project Area shown on the Project Area maps as a “Survey Unit”. Each Survey Unit is assigned an individual MicroStorms ID number, a unique OI key number and a specific set of numbered plots. A Survey Unit generally encompasses only one area but may include two or more areas that are spatially separated. Survey Units may contain more than one stratum.

· Tally Tree: Those trees determined to be “in” trees within the variable-radius plot or fixed-radius plot which are then recorded as required by recording procedures.

· Tree Flags: Attributes assigned to an individual tally tree using the variable-radius plot Ratio Sampling method that indicate the type of measurement data required or collected for the individual tree. Tree flags are randomly assigned to the trees by the HDCP but can be overridden or changed by the examiner if required. Trees may have more than one tree flag assigned. (e.g., HA, HrA, S, Out, fA, etc.) See Attachment 5.

· Walkthrough Plot: The 'Walk Through' sampling technique for establishing tree count is executed when the sample point's (plot) tree count is influenced by a unit boundary or road and an entire 360-degree plot cannot be installed. In this contract, the walkthrough method would be applied on the sample point to trees that are physically located between the plot center marker and the boundary or road.

· WALKTHRU Data Field: A User-Defined field named WALKTHRU assigned in EcoSurvey and included in the contract configuration file, for the Tree Screen.

3.0 CONTRACTOR-FURNISHED ITEMS

3.1 The Contractor shall furnish all necessary labor, equipment, transportation, supervision, materials, and incidentals other than those specified in Section 4.0, Government-Furnished Property, necessary to perform and record the measurements required on each plot and complete the work as described.

3.2 Crew Requirements

The Contractor shall maintain an adequate work force at all times to ensure timely completion of the work. The Contractor is responsible for the crew(s) knowing and performing the requirements of the contract. The Contractor must attend a prework meeting and present a written performance plan, including crew size and scheduling.

3.3 Crew Supervisor

A qualified supervisor shall be on-site directing work at all times. Failure to maintain a supervisor, who demonstrates the minimum skills and ability as shown below, will result in suspension of work until an acceptable on-the-ground supervisor is provided. A maximum of five (5) business days will be allowed to produce a qualified supervisor.

The supervisor shall be required to have skills in the following areas:

a. Accurate identification of all conifer, hardwood, shrub, and herb species commonly found on BLM HDD RFO.

b. Ability to accurately determine crown class and live crown ratio of trees.

c. Ability to accurately determine age and growth rates from increment borer cores.

d. Accurate identification of disease and damage agents, and their associated severities, common to conifers on BLM HDD RFO.

e. Ability to accurately determine timber volume defects, and their associated volume losses, common on BLM HDD RFO.

f. Ability to read and draw maps, to interpret aerial photographs, and to locate points on the ground by compass and GPS.

g. Ability to accurately perform common forest mensuration practices and techniques, including taking diameter measurements, height measurements, use of increment borers and use of an American Scale Spiegel Relaskop or equivalent.

h. Have basic competency in the use of handheld field data collecting computers and personal computers including loading programs, data management, communications interface, and file transfer.

i. Ability to use a geographic positioning system (GPS) to collect plot location coordinates.

3.4 Equipment and Supplies

The Contractor shall provide all equipment and supplies required to accomplish the specific tasks outlined in Section 5.0. Flagging colors will be as below. Measuring and recording equipment shall be at least as accurate as the equipment listed below and will be approved by the COR prior to starting work:

a. American Scale Spiegel Relaskop, electronic dendrometer or other acceptable measuring devices for measuring basal area, height, and slope.

b. Instrument for measuring growth increment to the nearest twentieth of an inch.

c. 24-inch increment borer.

d. Instruments for measuring diameters to the nearest tenth of an inch: Logger’s Tape or measuring tape of 50-foot minimum length.

e. Hand compass, set to a local declination as specified at: https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/maps/historical_declination/

f. Clipboards or notebooks.

g. Wire flags for marking plot centers, minimum 12-inch length.

h. White tree marking spray paint for marking tally, site, and borderline trees.

i. Fluorescent orange flagging for marking the end of DWM transects.

j. Fluorescent Pink flagging for hanging above plot centers.

k. Pencils and permanent ink markers.

l. Geographic positioning system (GPS) equipment capable of recording plot location. coordinates.

m. Personal Computer with Microsoft Windows 10 or Windows 11 operating system that has the capability of loading BLM Ecosurvey Lite software, the appropriate communication software compatible with the Contractor’s HHPC or Android field data collection device and EcoSurvey Lite, and ability to send data files via email or record files on electronic media.

n. Hand Held Personal Computer (HHPC) with the following minimum system requirements:

The currently supported HHPCs that meet the above listed requirements and are known to operate the software are:

· Juniper Systems Allegro MX

· Juniper Systems Allegro 2

o. Android Data Collection Device (detailed specifications to be added as soon as EcoSurvey Android application APK has been beta-tested).

3.5 The Contractor shall obtain written authorization from the COR prior to camping on BLM administered lands.

4.0 GOVERNMENT-FURNISHED PROPERTY

Government-furnished property listed below shall be returned to the Government in good condition, as determined by the Government, within five (5) days after completion of the contract. The Contractor shall protect such property from damage of any nature, other than that caused by normal use and wear. The Contractor shall sign a property transfer form (DI-105). The Contractor will be liable for Government-furnished property lost or damaged at the current repair or replacement costs. Final payment will be withheld until all Government-furnished property is returned.

The Government will provide the following items to the Contractor:

a. Maps and copies of aerial photos of the survey units after completion of delineation of stands by contractor.

b. Keys to unlock BLM gates (to be returned).

c. List of appropriate understory vegetation species with their codes (to be returned if provided as a hardcopy book).

d. BLM EcoSurvey Lite software program for installation on the contractor’s personal computer and/or BLM EcoSurvey Android application for installation on the contractor’s Android device. The installation files and user guides will be provided at the prework conference.

e. Electronic and hardcopy files of the configuration setup (consisting of lookup tables, configuration set, default unit and stratum) for the software.

f. BLM EcoSurvey Field User Guide and/or BLM EcoSurvey Android Mobile User Guide (to be returned if provided as a hardcopy book).

g. Up to four hours training/demonstration of data entry and download procedures.

Right to Share - The Contractor shall not use for purposes other than the performance of this contract, nor shall the contractor release, reproduce, distribute, or publish any data first produced in the performance of this contract, nor authorize others to do so, without written permission of the Contracting Officer (CO).

5.0 SPECIFIC TASKS

5.1 Stand Exam Instructions

5.1.1 Plot and Grid Layout Procedures:

a. The contractor will provide a systematic grid with plot locations on each project map area. Grid spacing may vary on each Project Area Map. The spacing between plots and grid lines will be constant throughout the stand and will be oriented in cardinal directions. Generally, there will be a plot approximately every three (3) to five (5) acres, but this can vary. The Contractor shall perform all necessary measurements on each plot.

b. If no trees are located on the variable plot, go to the 2/6 Plot No Stocking Screen and enter a check mark in the box preceding “Trees Not Stocked” field if the plot is determined to be able to support trees. If the plot is determined as a Non-Forest site, enter a check mark in the box preceding “Non-Forest Plot” field. This information also shall be noted in the Plot Comment Screen.

c. If a plot falls on a road or stream, the Contractor shall move the plot one (1) chain (66 feet) forward (or, if necessary, two chains) on the grid line to a point where the plot is no longer on the road or influenced by the stream channel. The Contractor shall note plot location deviations on the narrative sheet and on the Plot Comment Screen. In addition, the Contractor shall revise the GPS coordinates to correspond to the new location.

d. Plot centers that fall within old non-drivable dirt spurs and skid trails that have trees growing on them that contribute to the basal area of the stand shall not be moved and full plots shall be taken. If these plot centers do not have trees growing on them that contribute to the stand basal area, then the plot shall be offset sixty-six (66) feet in any cardinal direction which avoids the condition. The Contractor shall note plot location deviations on the narrative sheet and on the Plot Comment Screen. In addition, the Contractor shall revise the GPS coordinates to correspond to the new location.

e. If the plot cannot be installed due to hazardous conditions, (e.g., cliff, talus) the plot may be moved in the direction needed, up to 100 feet, to the least offset distance necessary to avoid the feature. The Contractor shall note plot location deviations on the narrative sheet and on the Plot Comment Screen. In addition, the Contractor shall revise the GPS coordinates to correspond to the new location.

f. Hazardous plot locations that cannot be resolved by applying 5.1.1.e, above, the Contractor will consult with the COR to develop a mutually acceptable location or location method.

g. In the event that the plot lands within the unit boundary but a full 360-degree variable plot cannot be taken (e.g., at a unit boundary near obvious vegetation type breaks or near a road), then a “Walkthrough” plot may be taken. The reason for using less than a full 360-degree plot will be documented on the Plot Comment Screen and the comment will lead with “Walkthrough” (e.g., “Walkthrough; plot is located adjacent to the survey unit boundary or adjacent to a road which would not allow a full 360-degree plot to be taken.”)

The following procedure will be used for Walkthrough plots:

a. Determine the azimuth from the plot center to the tree center in question.

b. Measure the horizontal distance from the plot center to the tree center along the determined azimuth.

c. Measure the horizontal distance from the tree center to the boundary or road edge along the determined azimuth. The boundary of the unit shall be located at the mid-point between the edge of the project area and adjacent stand as determined by standing trees closest to the azimuth. Road edge location shall be located at the top of the cut or toe of the fill. The boundary or road edge shall be marked with a two-foot length of flagging labeled “walk thru border” with a permanent marker (color of flagging is specified).

d. If the horizontal distance from the tree center to the boundary is equal to or less than the horizontal distance from the plot center to the tree center; count the tree twice.

e. Note all walkthrough plots will be identified on the plot comment field. Double count walkthrough trees will be identified in the WALKTHRU data field by entering a “Y” in the Tree Screen to designate the affirmative.

f. Walkthrough trees shall not be selected as site trees.

g. Each Plot center shall have its GPS coordinates and elevation recorded in the Plot Location Screen. The GPS coordinates shall be recorded in Lat. Long. Decimal degree format. The plot elevations shall be recorded in feet.

Figure 1: Schematic of the Walkthrough Plot Method.

5.1.2 General Plot Types

For each plot in the contract, the contractor shall:

· Record all trees (live and dead) ≥ 5.0-inch DBH or ≥ 3.0-inch DRC and ≥ 4.5 feet height on a 1/20th acre fixed radius plot (26.3 feet).

· A fixed-radius plot with an 11.8-foot radius will be used to collect sapling, seedlings and under-story vegetation data.

5.1.2.2 Fixed-radius plot

A fixed-radius plot with a 26.3-foot radius measured horizontally from the variable-radius plot center shall be used for recording all trees (live and dead) ≥ 5.0-inch DBH or ≥ 3.0-inch DRC and ≥ 4.5 feet height The fixed plot will be measured and recorded in a 360-degree sweep starting clockwise from north. All trees having 50 percent or more of their bole (measured at ground level) within the fixed-radius plot are considered in the plot. Fixed plots that occur near stand boundaries will be shifted from plot center to occur entirely within, but immediately adjacent to the boundary.

A fixed-radius plot with an 11.8-foot radius measured horizontally from the variable-radius plot center shall be used for recording saplings, seedling and vegetation. The fixed plot will be measured and recorded in a 360-degree sweep starting clockwise from north. All saplings having 50 percent or more of their bole (measured at ground level) within the fixed-radius plot are considered in the plot. Fixed plots that occur near stand boundaries will be shifted from plot center to occur entirely within, but immediately adjacent to the boundary.

Fixed Plot Measurements are recorded on the Regen, seedling, and vegetation Screens on the HHPC which may be accessed from any Plot Screen from the “Regen” “seedling” “veg” button block at the bottom of the Plot Screens. (Highlight Plots block and space bar or screen touch.)

Saplings and poles are tallied that are greater than 4.5 feet in height and 1 inch in diameter up to 4.9 inches DBH or 2.9 DRC. Seedlings greater than 4 inches in height up to 53 inches in height are tallied.

If no saplings are located on the fixed plot, return to 2/6 Plot No Stocking Screen and enter a check mark in the box preceding “SubMerch/Regen Not Stocked” field.

Required Data for Saplings – From the Regen dropdown menu, select “4 Saplings (>=4.5 ft and 1” dbh)” by pressing the number on the keyboard. The following data is required:

1. Species identification.

2. DBH measurement - Record to the nearest 1/10th inch.

3. Height measurement (Ht) - Record total height to the nearest foot.

4. Crown Ratio (% CR) - Record live crown ratio to nearest 10 percent.

5. Age - Record the estimated total age to the nearest year for the first sapling tallied on the plot. Only one sapling per plot needs to be recorded.

6. Canopy Layer (Lyr) – Record the Canopy Layer for all saplings. Generally, most saplings will be in Canopy Layer 2 or 3 if they are of consistent abundance to exceed the thresholds of cover.

Required Data for Seedlings – From the Regen dropdown menu select “7 Seedlings (<4.5 ft)” by pressing the number on the keyboard. The following data is required:

1. Species identification.

2. Stem Count (tally per species).

3. Average Height - Record average total height to the nearest foot for all seedlings of given species on the plot.

4. Average Crown Ratio (% CR) – Record average live crown ratio to nearest 10 percent for all seedlings of given species on the plot.

5. Average Leader - Record average leader length in inches for all seedlings of given species on the plot.

6. Interfering Condition – Click this button to access the Interfering Conditions Page. Check all conditions that are evident on the plot that influence seedling growth.

Required Data for Vegetation – From the Plot menu select “Veg”. The following data is required:

1. Species identification.

2. Average Height - Record average total height to the nearest foot for all vegetation of given species on the plot.

3. Percent Cover – Record ocular estimate of percentage of the ground covered by vegetation to the nearest 10 percent for all vegetation of given species on the plot. Check ‘Trace” if less than 2% cover.

5.1.2 Plot Numbers, Locations and Narrative

a. The quantity and location of plots will be determined after plot grids are complete not to exceed 1500 plots and will be shown on the maps or Project Information Sheet) for individual units. Phase III stands will be priority for plots followed by Phase II no plots will be placed in Phase I woodlands. Plot centers in the field shall be located within 50 feet of the location provided in GPS plot center data as shown on the maps (or as recorded for offset locations) and shall be within the Survey Unit.

b. For each survey unit, the contractor shall complete a brief narrative of any unique features or significant conditions observed throughout the Survey Unit. Screen 7/10 (Survey Notes) on the HHPC shall be used to record this narrative. (e.g., poor stocking, extensive animal damage, mistletoe, root rot pockets, snow damage, windthrow areas, wetlands, etc.) The contractor shall also mark these features and/or conditions on the map and/or the aerial photo.

c. For each plot, the Contractor shall report any unusual features or conditions located within the plot on the appropriate plot data screen. (e.g., large outcrops, large rockslides, domestic water intakes, cultural resources, caves, hazmat sites, windthrow, root rot, etc.) Screen 6/6 (Plot Comments) on the HHPC shall be used to record this narrative. The distance and azimuth from plot center to any off-plot Site Trees shall be recorded on this screen as part of the Plot Narrative.

5.1.4 Identification and Marking of Tally, Site, Walkthrough, Borderline Trees Trees shall be numbered consecutively starting at an azimuth of 360 degrees (due North) and proceeding in a clockwise direction around the plot center on data recorder. Tally trees with forks below DBH are recorded as two (2) trees When two (2) or more trees are in the same azimuth line, the tree closest to plot center shall be given the smaller number. If the Site Tree is selected off the plot it shall be recorded and numbered as the last tree on the plot. Walkthrough trees shall be identified by a letter “W” painted to the same specifications as the tally tree number. Borderline trees shall be identified with an “X” painted to the same specifications as the tally tree number. Site trees shall be identified with an “S” painted to the same specifications as the tally tree number.

5.1.5 Plot Marking

a. Plot centers shall be marked with a wire flag noting the plot number and driven securely into the ground. Double fluorescent flagging (one blue and one orange) shall be hung as high overhead as possible, as close to the plot center as possible and shall have “STAND EXAM” printed on the orange flagging along with the plot number, examiner's initials, and date written with permanent ink.

b. Flagging colors will be as specified above.

5.2 Plot Procedures

5.2.1 Site Tree Plots and Site Tree Selection

a. Total number of Site Trees will range from a minimum of five to half of the total stand exam plots in the unit. If two consecutive plots have suitable site tree candidates, they can both be chosen as site trees. If two consecutive plots do not have suitable site tree candidates, the site tree selection may be made up in other plots or found off plot, as long as Site tree selection criteria are met. Site Trees will be assigned tree flag “S”. Each Site Tree shall be painted with the letter “S” as specified in 5.1.4. The appropriate Site Tree Table (see below) shall be selected on screen 3/9 of the Unit screens in the field data collection device.

b. Site trees shall be selected that meet the following criteria:

1. The Site Tree shall be selected from the largest, tallest, and best quality dominant or co-dominant trees of the most abundant species in the stand or Survey Unit.

2. The tree has a normally formed bole and crown and has a central bole exhibiting physiological traits and development typical for that tree species, age, and local environment.

3. Site trees should have healthy crowns, no irregular radial growth patterns and no damage that would affect height growth.

4. A site tree may have minor damage that does not affect height growth but cannot have any visible defect, evidence of suppression, or symptoms of interior rot or disease.

c. If there are no suitable Site Trees on the plot, one shall be selected from outside the plot as close to the plot as possible and assigned a tree flag “out”. Off-plot site trees shall be numbered as the last tally tree on the plot. In addition, all off-plot Site Trees shall be rejected for height and age if assigned by the data collection program by assigning the appropriate rH and rA tree flags. The azimuth and distance from plot center to any Site Trees selected off the plot shall be recorded in the Plot Narrative (6/6 Plot Comments Screen) on the HHPC.

1.

5.2.2 Age and Growth measurement procedures for tally and Site trees within a fixed-radius plot 26.3’

a. All selected Site Trees assigned tree flag “S” and all Age Trees assigned tree flag “A” or “fA” will be measured for BH age and 5-year and 10-year radial growth. The Age (“A” or “fA” flag) tree sample selection will be 10% of the tallied trees on the plot. This value will be entered in the HDCP Default Stratum Setup Screen for the contract. With this setting, 10% of the tally trees chosen by the HDCP will require age measurement data per survey unit. Site trees do not contribute to the Age tree sample.

b. Radial growth: Measure growth from an increment core bored at DBH and at a right angle to the bole. Beginning at the outer edge (the edge nearest to the bark) of the first complete dark ring (end of previous year’s growth), count to the 5th and 10th ring (see Figure 2). Using a ruler graduated in 1/20-inch increments, measure and record the distance from end of last year’s growth to outer edge (end of fall growth) of the 5th and 10th rings in twentieths of an inch (e.g., record 1.2 inches as “24”). The core shall be hung with flagging on the bole of the tree. On trees where this is not practical, (lack of low twigs/branches) the core shall be placed back into the core hole with a sufficient amount exposed to allow the Project Inspector to retrieve it for increment verification (approximately 1 inch). As noted in 5.1.4, core location will be indicated by encircling it with white paint.

c. When measuring 5- and 10-year radial growth, do not include the bark, phloem (inner bark), current year’s spring growth (the lighter-colored portion of the annual growth ring), or the current year’s late summer or fall growth (the darker-colored portion of the annual growth ring) if applicable (when there is an incomplete annual growth ring; see Figure 2).

Center of tree Phloem (inner bark) Bark End of previous year’s growth 10-year radial growth Spring growth (lighter in color) Fall or late summer growth (darker in color)

Figure 2: Measuring Radial Growth.

d. Breast height age: All selected Site Trees assigned tree flag “S” and all Age Trees assigned tree flag “A” or “fA” will be measured for breast height age using an increment core bored at DBH and at a right angle to the bole. The increment core must pass through and beyond the center of the tree. Beginning at the outer edge of the first dark ring (end of last year’s fall growth), count the number of dark rings from the outer end of the wood core to the center of the tree and record the total breast height age. Do not include the phloem (inner bark) or the current year’s spring growth. The increment wood core shall be placed partially back into the core hole to allow retrieval by the Project Inspector and a circle will be painted around the core hole.

e. To determine the age of a tree that has a radius greater than the length of the 24-inch increment borer, refer to Figure 3 and following example. To ensure accurate age data, this method shall not be used on trees with DBH less than 20 inches.

Example: A tree of 58.6 inches DBH has an estimated bark thickness of 2.0 inches. A 14.0-inch increment core has 110 total rings with 10 rings on the inner-most two inches of the core. To determine the breast height age: (1) Calculate the radius of the tree at DBH (58.6" ÷ 2 = 29.3"). (2) Subtract the bark thickness to get the wood radius at DBH (29.3" - 2.0" = 27.3”). (3) Determine the remaining distance to the center of the tree (27.3” - 14.0" = 13.3”). (4) Calculate the average rings per inch using the inner-most 2 inches of the core (10 rings ÷ 2" = 5 rings per inch). (5) Extrapolate the average rings per inch for the missing portion of the core and round to the nearest whole inch (5 rings per inch X 13.3" = 66.5 rings, round to 67). (6) Add the actual ring count to the extrapolated ring count to determine the total breast height age (110 + 67 = 177 years breast height age).

Figure 3: Method for Large Tree Age Determination.

4.2.3 Height Trees: The Height (“H” or “fH” flag) tree sample selection will be 50% of the tallied trees on the variable plot. This value will be entered in the HDCP Default Stratum Setup Screen for the contract. With this setting, 50% of the tally trees chosen by the HDCP will require Height measurement data per survey unit. Since the Height trees are randomly selected, the number of Height trees chosen per plot will vary.

A height tree shall be rejected if it is “fallen”. Reject that measurement by flagging that tree as “rH” in the data recorder. Measure the next sequential tree on the plot that is not already flagged as a height tree. The replacement Height tree shall be assigned tree flag “fH”. If no suitable replacement trees are available on the plot, then the first available tree on the next plot shall be selected as a replacement. If no suitable replacement trees are available and this is the last plot to be measured on the survey unit, then no replacement Height tree shall be required.

4.2.4 Borderline Tree Procedures: Occasional "borderline" trees occur (it is unclear whether they are in or out of the plot). These trees shall be determined to be “in” or “out” using the following procedure:

1. Calculate the limiting horizontal distance by multiplying the DBH of the borderline tree by the appropriate plot radius factor for the BAF being used on the plot.

2. If the measured horizontal distance from plot center to the center of the tree or to the face of the tree at DBH is less than the calculated limiting distance, the tree shall be determined to be “in” the plot and shall be tallied. The HHPC contains a Borderline Tree Calculation program that calculates the limiting horizontal distance and reports whether the tree is “in” or “out.”

3. Contractors shall use white tree marking spray to mark borderline trees with an “X as specified in 5.1.5.

5.2.6 Diameter Breast Height (DBH) Measurement: Measure DBH perpendicular to the bole of the tree at a point 4.5 feet (54 inches) above ground level on the uphill side of the tree. If a whorl of branches or other abnormality prevents measurement, then the DBH shall be measured above the abnormality as close to 4.5 feet as possible. Record DBH in tenths of an inch.

Diameter Root Collar (DRC) Measurement: measures the diameter at the root collar or at the natural ground line, whichever is higher, outside the bark. Measure tree stems only, not branches. A stem generally grows in an upright position and contributes to the main structural support of a tree crown.

DRC- Will be used in all woodland based species i.g. Juniper

5.2.7 Fallen Trees: When a fallen live tree occurs on the variable-radius plot, the original position of the tree is disregarded and the “in” or “out” status of the tree is determined from where the tree lays. Measure the distance to the DBH as it lies to determine if it is within the limiting distance.

5.2.8 Forked Trees: A tree forked at or above DBH shall be tallied as one tree, and the required height measurement shall be taken on the tallest bole of the fork. A tree forked below DBH shall be tallied as two (or more) individual trees with required height measurement taken on each fork of the tree meeting minimum DBH.

5.2.10 Size Limits for Fixed-Radius plot Tally Trees: On fixed-radius plots Tally Live trees equal to or greater than 4.99 inches, unless otherwise specified. Tally dead standing trees ten (8) inches DBH or larger and ten (10) feet tall or taller. Tally dead fallen trees that are equal to or greater than the minimum merchantable DBH and Decay Class 1 or 2. (sapling plots), tally conifer species that are 4.5 feet (54 inches) in height or taller and less than the minimum merchantable DBH/DRC. On fixed-radius plots (seedling plots), tally only live conifer species that are 4 inches up to 53 inches in height.

5.2.11 Height Measurement for Standing Dead Trees (Snags): All dead trees equal to or greater than 10 inches DBH and 10 feet in height shall be measured for tree height regardless of tree flag.

For Standing Dead trees or snags with missing tops: Record the height to broken top. (A re-constructed total height is not required) All Standing Dead trees and snags will be given 100% deduction.

5.2.12 Height Measurement for Standing Broken Top Live Height Trees (flagged with an “H”):

Standing Live Height Trees that have a broken top require two height measurements, total height, and height to break. Total height is measured by incorporating all portions of the tree bole including broken off tops or missing tops. If the top or portion of the bole is missing or has been removed, estimate the length using comparable adjacent trees and include this length in the total height measurement. The appropriate % Deduct and Damage Code shall be applied to the missing portion of the tree. For trees with a broken top, a second height measurement, height to break, is required. Height to break is measured from the ground to the highest measurable point of the standing bole. (Note: Standing Live Count Trees do not require height measurements).

5.2.14 Required Data and Tree Flags for Tally Trees:

Data shall be collected for each Tally Tree indicated by the assigned Tree Flag and Tree Type as shown below and outlined in Attachment 5.

a. Count Tree: A tally tree with no assigned tree flag (blank tree flag field) requires:

· Species identification

· Classification as a - Standing/Fallen - Dead/Live tree

· DBH measurement

· Canopy layer

b. If the Count Tree is classified as a Standing Dead tree, it also requires:

· Will be assigned the tree flag “fH” by the examiner.

· Height to broken top.

· Decay Classification

· Damage Code (if evident)

c. Height Tree: A tally tree assigned with tree flag “H” requires:

· Species identification

· Classification as a - Standing/Fallen - Dead/Live tree

· Total height / length measurement

· DBH measurement

· % Deduct estimation

· Damage Code (for any affecting volume, growth, or survival)

· Severity Code (if damage code is recorded)

· Crown Classification

· Crown Ratio measurement

· Canopy Layer assignment

d. If the Height Tree is dead, it will not require Crown Classification, Crown Ratio measurement, or Canopy Layer assignment but will require:

· Decay Classification

· Damage Code (if evident)

· Height/length measured according to rules for decay class stated above

e. Site Tree: One Live Standing tree assigned the tree flag “S” by the Contractor requires the same data collection as Height and Age trees. Off-plot Site Trees shall be assigned tree flag “OUT” and if they were assigned tree flag “H” or “A” by the HHPC then they shall be rejected for height and age by assigning tree flags “rH” and “rA”. Off-plot Site Trees require the same measurements as on-plot Site Trees.

f. Old Tree: Tally trees within the variable-radius plot meeting the definition of an Old tree shall be assigned tree flag “old “and require measurements as determined by the assigned tree flag(s). Attachment 5 summarizes the measurements required for the different tree flags on the variable radius plot.

5.3 Hand-held Data Collection Instructions: The Contractor shall be responsible for proper input of all pertinent data. All data shall be entered into the handheld data collector (HHPC) or Android field data collection device in the field at time of the survey.

5.3.1 Daily downloading of data to the Contractor’s PC is recommended to assure backup of data. Contractor shall retain all collected data on the Contractor’s Android data collection device, HHPC and PC until such time as the data has been received, downloaded, and approved as satisfactory by the COR.

5.3.2 The Contractor shall be responsible for all data re-entry in event of equipment or software failure. The Contractor shall be self-sufficient in the use of the software.

5.3.3 The Contractor is responsible for installation and operation of BLM EcoSurvey Lite software furnished by the government. The contractor is also responsible for providing the appropriate communication software that is compatible with the contractor’s PC operating system, the contractor’s HHPC or Android data collection device and EcoSurvey Lite. The Government is not responsible for technical support of contractor’s computer and associated handheld data collector interface software.

5.3.4 Data Submission: The Contractor shall provide completed EcoSurvey data files (in HDCP format or Android data format) and Project Area Maps to the Project Inspector or COR upon completion of each Survey Unit. If a survey unit is not complete, then data shall be submitted weekly to facilitate prompt inspection and possible corrective actions. If data cannot be submitted weekly, the Contractor shall contact the COR promptly. The Contractor shall finish the Unit in progress before work is started on any additional Units.

5.4 Required Data Collection and Procedures: The screen shots that follow are for illustration purposes only. Some of the data entry values in the illustrations in Attachment 1: EcoSurvey program may change according to the specific needs, and are examples only, to provide prospective bidders information about the function of the EcoSurvey Android and EcoSurvey Windows software. Specific instructions for required data entry are provided below each illustration, and in general apply to variable plot and fixed plot and transect items. Values applicable to variable plot items only are shown in bold. Values applicable to variable and fixed plot items only are shown in bold italic.

Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors

1. Technical Proposal Contents:

a. Qualifications and Experience of Key Personnel: Offerors shall submit a one-page resume of all key personnel proposed for this contract.

b. Past Performance: Offerors shall submit a list of clients for past and present similar projects covering the past four (4) years. Provide: contact name, address, phone number, e-mail address. The Government will survey these clients to obtain past performance information (quality, timeliness, cost control, business relationships) related to offeror’s current and past work.

c. Quality Control Plan: Offerors shall submit their Quality Control Plan showing how they intend to meet Government performance standards.

Evaluation Factors for Award

1. Technical Evaluation Factors:

a. Qualifications and experience of Key personnel

b. Past Performance

c. Quality Control Plan

2. Order of Importance:

a. Technical factors, when…