A04_SOW_2023_Sheldon_NWR_Fence_Construction_UPDATED.pdf

Statement of Work Boundary Fence Replacement

Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge 44290 Virgin Valley Road Denio, NV 89404

1. GENERAL:

1.1. SHELDON NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE: Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) is a 575,000-acre high desert, sagebrush ecosystem managed as wildlife habitat in northwestern Nevada. The Refuge Headquarters are located 25 miles west of Denio. Refuge elevations range from 4,200 feet to 7,200 feet.

This project is to replace a total of approximately 17 miles boundary fence in several sections around the Refuge. See attached map that identifies segments.

1.1.1 Segment One extends west from the Nevada/Oregon State line to the top of Doherty Rim. Approximately 9 miles in length. No boundary signs will be posted along this section of fence. Complete replacement of the fence.

1.1.2 Segment Two is on the south boundary. There are twenty-five snow pockets where the fence is broken and needs replacing, but t-posts will not be replaced. An H brace will be constructed on each side of the snow pocket so future replacement will be easier. The snow pocket segments have been estimated at ¼ mile each for a total of 6.25 miles.

1.1.3 Segment Three is in the Bog Hot Spring area. The section is 0.3 miles in length. Complete replacement of the fence.

1.1.4 Segment Four is at the Refuge Headquarters. This section is 1 mile in length. Complete replacement of the fence. No boundary signs will be posted along this section of fence.

1.1.5 Additionally, boundary posts and signs will be placed along some sections of new fence as detailed in the boundary posting specifications. Sections One and Four shall not be posted with boundary signs.

Some of the segments of fence is to be constructed in remote areas of the Refuge.

Approximate drive-time from the refuge headquarters to the various sites is up to 3 hours over unimproved two-track roads. This will add several considerations to the level of difficulty and tasks that may be associated with the actual fence building. Complicating issues related to the fence construction, but which may not be inclusive of all variables encountered, are:

Variable soil substrates including rock Varying degrees of accessibility Uneven terrain

Steep slopes Trees and/or dense vegetation Cross-country foot travel packing heavy, bulky fence materials Limited vehicle access Inclement weather Little to no cellular phone service Insect and/or wildlife hazards

The Contractor shall conform to all restrictions that may be imposed in response to wildfire danger and Industrial Fire Precaution Levels. Restrictions can include having shovels, fire extinguishers, and water available, limited road closures or complete road closures. The Contractor is responsible for contacting the Refuge Manager to become informed of changes in fire precaution levels.

The Refuge will supply all fence and boundary posting materials, except mortar.

The contractor will be responsible for transporting material from the refuge headquarters to the various job sites. A fence materials issue sheet will be completed by the contractor and approved by Refuge Manager each time materials are removed from the headquarters.

2. SCOPE: This statement of work is for services to provide a U.S. Fish and Wildlife standard 4-strand, permanent, and wildlife compatible boundary fence on Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge (Sheldon NWR). Boundary posts and signs will be installed along the new fence, as detailed in the specifications. The Contractor shall furnish all labor, equipment, supervision, transportation, and incidentals necessary to complete the work specified. Contractor shall also supply mortar if needed to ensure brace post, corner post, and steel pipe structural integrity. All potential contractors/bidders must demonstrate barbed wire fence construction experience in rough, rocky, remote terrain.

The purpose of this work is to construct up to 17 miles of Sheldon NWR boundary fence in segments. Maps will be provided for the contractor showing the sections to be replaced. The fence will run through varying topography including rock outcroppings, swales, draws, sagebrush, and juniper. In some areas the ground is solid rock. A rock drill is recommended.

Some segments of the project are accessible by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service unimproved, two- track roads while other segments are accessible only by ATV/UTV or on foot. Fence materials can be cached on site on Refuge property by contractor.

However, the contractor is responsible for all material once it is transferred from the Service.

Segment One will run parallel to Highway 140 for approximately nine miles from the Nevada/Oregon State line to the top of Doherty Rim. This section has good access off Highway 140. The terrain in this area is not especially rough but there are some rims with snow pockets and road crossings with cattle guards installed. See Segment One Map.

Segment Two is located on the south boundary. The south boundary fence runs for approximately 30 miles. There are several snow pockets along the south boundary where the fence wires have been broken. The snow pockets are varying sizes but average about ¼ mile each. There are 25 snow pockets for a total of 6.25 miles of fencing. The existing snow pocket sections of fence will be removed and replaced. The replacement of fence in the snow pockets will require extra H-braces be installed on each side of the identified snow pocket. A total of 50 H-braces will be constructed. T-posts will not need to be replaced. Access to these areas will require ATV/UTV or on foot.

See Segment Two Map.

Segment Three is located near Bog Hot Spring area. This segment will begin at the County Road cattle guard and run west for 0.33 miles in length. Access to this segment is good and terrain is flat. See Segment Three Map and Segment Three Map Imagery.

Segment Four is located in the Refuge Headquarters area. The fence around the meadow next to the residences will be replaced. The fence is 1 mile in length. Access to this segment is good and terrain is flat. However, there are some wet areas in the project area. See Segment Four map Imagery.

3. GOVERNMENT FUNRNISHED MATERIALS:

ITEM DESCRIPTION

Barbed Wire: 2-point, 12.5 gauge galvanized Wire Stays: 30", 12.5-gauge, wire twist Wire, smooth: 12 ga., barbless/smooth, galvanized Guy Wires for Bracing 12 gauge galvanized Steel “T” Posts: 6-foot T133 studded steel t-post Fasteners: 12.5-gauge, galvanized Clips Brace Posts: 2 1/2-inch black steel pipe Cross Brace: 1-1/4-inch black steel pipe Rail End Brace Band: 2-3/8-inch, steel, galvanized Flat bar: 1” x ¼” Boundary Posts 7’, galvanized u-channel posts Boundary Signs Standard Refuge Boundary Signs

Carriage bolts, nuts, and washers 5/16” x 1 ½” and 5/16” x 2 ½”

4. SPECIFICATIONS:

4.1. GENERAL STEPS FOR FENCE FOR CONSTRUCTION:

4.1.1. Clear trees and brush enough to construct new fence. Scraping the area is not allowed. Any juniper trees cut down will be cut into smaller pieces and scattered.

4.1.2. Line braces (H-braces) will be installed at all changes in alignment, but no more than 1,320 feet. Corner braces will be set on all corners. Grout all line brace posts, if necessary, with concrete to ensure adequate structure.

4.1.3. Set the line posts on a straight line between installed corners and line braces.

4.1.4. Stretch wire to proper tension and manufacturer’s specifications and uniformity by sections between brace installations.

4.1.5. Clip wires to posts to manufacturer’s specifications.

4.1.6. Install wire stays to manufacturer’s specifications.

4.1.7. Remove all fencing debris upon completion of fence contract. Debris shall include but not be limited to: wire spools, “T” post and stay bands, lath and flagging, old posts, old wire, and garbage. Old wood posts may remain and scattered on ground. Return extra material to Refuge Headquarters.

4.2. CLEARING: The fence line corridor can be cleared to a width of ten (10) feet, on the Sheldon NWR side of the fence centerline. Trees and brush can be cut by hand or mowed. When cut by hand, the trees and brush shall be scattered outside the fence line corridor. Mowing is not permitted when fire restrictions are in effect on the refuge. No scraping or blading of the ground will be allowed. No clearing or travel shall occur on the non-refuge side of the fence without prior authorization.

4.3. CORNER AND LINE BRACES: Steel pipe shall be used for corner and line

“H” bracing. H-braces shall be constructed as stated in Section 4.7. Guy wires shall consist of two complete strands of 12-gauge galvanized wire. The guy wire shall be double-wrapped around the bottom of the post where the fenceline wire will be attached and the top of the brace post and tied together so the guy wire forms two long narrow circles. Wires will be tied to brace bands. A stout stick/rebar shall be placed between the middle of the guy wires, and all four wires shall be twisted together until the guy wires are tight, thus forming an “X” between the brace posts. The stout stick/rebar shall remain in place to maintain wire tension.

4.4. STEEL “T” POSTS: Steel posts must be driven until the tops of the anchor plates are embedded into the ground and are no longer visible. All steel t-posts shall be spaced sixteen (16) feet apart. T-posts shall be set as nearly vertical as possible with the fastener side in line on the wire side. The wire shall be placed on the side of the post away from the refuge. Any deviation from straight line shall be onto the Refuge side.

4.5. WIRE: Wire shall be spaced as stated in Section 4.9. All wire shall be stretched tightly. Line wires shall be cut and dead-ended on all corners. Wire shall dead end on the farthest post. No more than 0.25 mile (1,320 feet) of wire shall be stretched at one time. Wire shall be stretched in sections between H braces. Wires shall not be twisted or kinked for any reason. One stay shall be placed between each t-post.

4.6. STAPLES AND FENCE POST FASTENERS: Steel wire clips are to be used on metal posts. Clips shall be crimped closed.

4.7. “H” BRACES: Steel pipe shall be used for “H” bracing. Uprights shall be 7’ apart. Five post corners is an option and may be installed at the choice or discretion of the contractor in order to ensure fence line integrity. Horizontal pipe shall be welded to uprights. In the event high fire danger prevents welding of the H braces, brace end bands shall be connected to uprights with rail end bands and 6” pieces of flat bar. Welding is not permitted when fire restrictions are in effect on the refuge. Terminate wire at each end post, gate post or corner post by wrapping the wire around the post two times on the before tying off to a brace band. Wire shall be stretched to the far post from the section being stretched. Guy wires shall consist of two complete strands of 12-gauge smooth galvanized wire. The guy wire shall be double-wrapped around the bottom of the post where the fence line wire will be attached and the top of the brace post and tied together so the guy wire forms two long narrow circles. A stout stick/rebar shall be placed between the middle of the guy wires, and all four wires shall be twisted together until the guy wires are tight, thus forming an “X” between the brace posts. The stout stick/rebar shall remain in place to maintain wire tension.

4.8. DRAWS, RIDGE CROSSINGS, ROCK OUTCROPPING, AND GAPS:

Draws shall have H braces built on each side. Fence shall be anchored to the bottom of the draw using rocks. Anchor wires shall be 12 gauge galvanized smooth. Ridges shall have an H brace at the top of the ridge. For rock outcroppings identified by the Refuge Manager, the contractor is required to stop at the outcroppings, tie into the rocks, end the fence with an H-brace and start on the other side with an H-brace. In instances where there are gaps in the existing old fence, new replacement fence shall fill the gaps.

4.9. WIRE SPACING FOR WILDLIFE COMPATIBLE FENCING:

4 Strand Wire Fence

Fourth wire or top strand: 42 inches above ground (barbed)

Third wire or strand: 30 inches above ground (barbed)

Second wire or strand: 25 inches above ground (barbed)

First wire or bottom strand: 20 inches above ground (barbless/smooth)

4.10. ROAD CROSSINGS: When the fence line crosses any road (improved or unimproved), the contractor shall place steel pipe H braces on each side of the road. A cattle guard will be installed by other personnel at a later date (if one does not exist). A wire gate shall be constructed on one side of the road from the H brace.

4.11. GATES: Each cattle guard location will have a wire gate adjacent to it. The gate shall be constructed of two steel pipes and wire. Four steel chain links shall be welded to each steel pipe and wires shall be attached to the chain links.

Wire shall be spaced as stated in Section 4.9. The pipe on the side of the gate furthest from the cattle guard shall be attached to the H brace with a wire loop placed below the top wire and a wire loop placed above the bottom wire. The pipe on the side of the gate closest to the cattle guard shall be attached to the H brace with a wire loop placed above the top wire and a wire loop placed below the bottom wire both with sufficient tension to allow the gate to be opened.

Two steel stays shall be placed evenly between the steel pipes. A steel pipe shall be attached to the H brace with a sturdy chain. The length of the chain shall be long enough to allow the steel bar to be used as a fulcrum to tighten the gate when it is being opened and closed. The gate shall be built and anchored with new H-braces on each end.

4.12. APPROXIMATE FENCING MATERIALS PER MILE:

4.12.1. FOUR STRAND FENCE:

4.12.1.1. 350 steel “T” posts

4.12.1.2. 350 stays

4.12.1.3. 12 barbed wire rolls, 2-point, 12.5 gauge galvanized

4.12.1.4. 4 barbless/smooth wire rolls, 12.5 gauge galvanized, barb-less

4.12.1.5. 550 feet smooth wire, 12 gauge, galvanized (tension or anchor wires)

4.12.1.6. 1400 T-post fasteners (12.5-gauge clips)

4.12.1.7. 5 sets of pipe “H” bracing (for straight line fence), 10 x 7’ x 2 ½”, 5 x 7’ x 1 3/4”

4.12.1.8. 30 Rail end brace bands (if necessary)

4.12.1.9. 10 5’ Flat bar, 1” x ¼” (if necessary)

4.12.1.10. 10 sets Carriage bolts and nuts, 5/16” x 1 ½”

4.13. BOUNDARY SIGNS: Install boundary posts with boundary signs so they are visible from one another, but no more than 0.25 miles apart. Corners and entry points shall be marked with two posts and signs. Boundary posts shall be set securely in the ground on the refuge side of the fence line and all signposts will be set at a uniform height, as practicable as possible. Boundary signs shall be secured to the post with the top of the sign 1”-2” below the top of the post.

4.14. APPROXIMATE BOUNDARY POSTING MATERIALS PER MILE:

4.14.1. Five-foot u-channel boundary posts with boundary signs.

4.14.2. Five sets Carriage bolts, nuts, and washers, 5/16” x 2 ½”

5. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: All work shall be completed within 1 year of purchase order award.

6. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Work will be performed at the Sheldon National Wildlife in Denio, Nevada.

7. SITE VISIT: For a site visit, RSVP Shannon Ludwig at Shannon_ludwig@fws.gov.

Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge Boundary Fence Replacement Solicitation

Bid Sheet

Date:

Name/Company:

UEI:

Telephone/Fax:

Email:

Address:

Sheldon NWR Fence Segment

Bid Price

1. Segment One

2. Segment Two

3. Segment Three

4. Segment Four

Point of Contact:

Shannon Ludwig Phone: 541-947-3315 Email: Shannon_Ludwig@fws.gov

Point of Contact:

Brian Day Phone: 775-941-0199 Email: Brian_Day@fws.gov

COR: Marietta McClintock Phone: 541-947-3315 Email: mariette_mcclintock@fws.gov

Contracting Specialist: (Point of Contact) Tiffannie Pannell Phone: 404-679-7182 Email: Tiffannie_Pannell@fws.gov

Contracting Officer:

Josh Miller Phone: 503‐278‐9902 Email: Joshua_Miller@fws.gov

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

PART 1 GENERAL

1.1 SCOPE

A. This document contains supplemental technical requirements to the Statement of Work for construction of U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service infrastructure projects in Regions 1, 7, & 8 (Oregon, Washington, Idaho, California, Nevada, Alaska, Hawaii & other Pacific Islands).

B. Provide all management, supervision, field-engineering, quality-control, labor, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to perform work described in the statement of work.

C. Conduct site visits, and working meetings, conference calls, and other activities as necessary to accomplish the work in a timely and efficient manner.

1.2 DEFINITIONS (for the purposes of this document)

A. Commissioning is the act of statically and dynamically testing the operation of equipment and facility systems to ensure they operate as designed and can satisfactorily meet the needs of the facility throughout the entire range of operating conditions.

B. Construction is defined as, but not limited to, constructing (giving form by combining the parts), altering, repairing, adding to, subtracting from, improving, restoring, moving, wrecking or demolishing any building, highway, road, excavation or other structure, project, or improvement attached to real estate.

C. Contracting Officer (CO) is defined as a the USFWS person with the authority to enter into, administer, and/or terminate contracts and make related determinations and findings on behalf of the United States of America.

D. COR is the Contracting Officer’s Representative who is explicitly designated in writing by the

CO.

E. Contractor is the business entity that is contractually-responsible to the USFWS for accomplishment of the project Work.

F. Government means Owner, Contracting Officer, Contracting Officer’s Representative, or U. S.

Fish and Wildlife Service.

G. Performance Specifications are specifications that state what the required results will be with measurable or observable criteria for verifying compliance.

H. USFWS or FWS means United States Department of Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service.

1.3 PROJECT LOCATION AND ACCESS

A. Project location(s) is described in the project Statement of Work.

B. Some projects may be located in remote areas where construction materials and supplies are limited in quantity and variety, and where opportunities to use local labor may be limited in quantity and specialty. In the Pacific Islands, Hawaii, and Alaska access is primarily by ship or air.

C. Access:

1. The Contractor shall identify suitable access routes to the work site(s) that are agreeable to the USFWS refuge / hatchery project leader and the COR.

2. Identify and comply with any associated use requirements and restrictions. Verify with Field Station if roads are in “Open” or “Closed” status prior to using.

3. Site access may be difficult in some instances.

D. Any roads, parking lots, trails, and walkways subject to interference by the work shall be kept open in a manner that provides for safe public use.

E. USFWS will occupy the premises during the progress of the work. Cooperate with USFWS to maintain access and availability to the site.

1.4 TECHNICAL PROCEDURES

A. General: Comply with the requirements contained in this document unless explicitly indicated otherwise in a project-specific Statement of Work.

B. Contractor is responsible for the proper performance of the Work and shall correct, at no additional expense, to the Government any errors or omissions in connection with such performance.

C. Hazardous Materials: Notify COR immediately of any potential hazardous materials discovered on-site.

1.5 SUBMITTALS

A. Obtain transmittal form “FWS R1-67, Rev. 10/93”, and use for transmitting all submittals.

B. Follow the requirements of the “Region 1, 7, and 8 Engineering Drawings and Computer Aided Drafting Standards Manual”, dated January 2016 or the most recent edition, for the preparation and management of engineering drawings including As-Built drawings.

C. See 48 CFR 52.236-21 (d), (e), (f), (g), “Specifications and Drawings for Construction”, for requirements of Shop Drawing submittals for (1) the proposed fabrication and assembly of structural elements and (2) the installation (i.e., form, fit, and attachment details) of materials or equipment.

D. Processing Time: Allow the government 14 calendar days for review of submittals. Time shall commence upon the COR’s receipt of the submittal. Any resubmittal will require another 14 days of review time.

E. Except as indicated below, transmit project-specific submittals electronically in Adobe.pdf to the COR and/or the USFWS designated engineering point-of-contact.

1. Deliver any color renderings, samples, finish samples, and mock ups directly to the USFWS field station and COR. Provide two samples to COR and one to field station, unless separate agreement is made between COR and Contractor.

2. Submit cost proposals as Adobe.pdf and/or Excel.xls to the CO and/or COR as directed.

3. Individual sheets shall be combined into a .pdf file of 5MB maximum. Files too large for electronic or ftp distribution may be mailed or delivered on compact disk.

1.6 HOUSING AND TEMPORARY FACILITIES

a. Housing for workers and campsites are not available on site unless explicitly indicated otherwise in the Scope of Work.

b. The Contractor shall furnish all temporary facilities and utilities needed including: heat, light, power, water, telephone, sanitary facilities, job offices, material handling equipment, temporary construction aids, and storage enclosures. If suitable USFWS water, electric, or other utility is present at the site, it may be used for construction purposes at no cost, only if it does not adversely impact the operations of the station and field station agrees to permit use.

c. The Contractor is responsible for all temporary connections and disconnections.

PART 2 PROJECT EXECUTION

2.1 GENERAL

A. Project work will be accomplished via the project-specific Work Statement to convey the unique aspects of the project.

B. Federally listed illegal drugs are not permitted on the jobsite or any Federal property, regardless of State laws.

2.2 PRECONSTRUCTION CONFERENCE

A. The Contracting Officer or designated COR will conduct a Preconstruction Conference at a convenient time to both the Contractor and the Government. A draft agenda with topics will be distributed prior to the meeting. The Contractor shall take meeting notes and submit for COR review and approval.

2.3 PAYMENT

A. 5 work-days prior to sending to the Invoice Processing Platform (IPP), submit a draft invoice in the agreed Schedule of Values format to COR for review and concurrence.

B. Proposed fees for construction costs are based on quantities and unit rates as a means to document price reasonableness, and as a tool of managing project price.

C. Unless explicitly approved otherwise and prior to incurring cost:

1. Expenses associated with any scoping visit & negotiations shall be incidental.

2. Payment will be processed monthly in accordance with the approved Schedule of Values that indicates the dollar value for each principal project element.

3. Submit paid invoices to support any requests of payment for stored materials.

4. Submit a certified invoice (with signature and date) that clearly indicates the contract number, task order number, USFWS field station name, project name, Contractor name/address/contact person and phone number/email, sequential invoice number, inclusive dates for work invoiced, original contract dollar amount, any contract modification dollar amounts issued to date, grand total contract amount, total value earned to date, cumulative previous payments, net dollar amount due this invoice.

2.3 CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE

A. Contractor shall submit for approval an initial practicable graphic construction schedule in PDF format within 15 days of NTP, as described in CFR FAR 52.236-15, “Schedules for Construction Contracts”.

B. For projects under $250,000 the construction schedule may be in Bar-Chart format or more detailed.

C. For projects over $250,000 the construction schedule shall be in Critical Path Method, CPM format.

D. The schedule shall show any long-lead time items and any government-furnished property.

E. Submit updated construction schedules monthly depicting progress of work completed to date.

2.4 PERMITS

A. In addition to the Permits and Responsibilities clause Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.236-7, if work includes any ground disturbances meeting Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) requirements, Contractor shall prepare, submit, and obtain any permits for SWPPP, unless SWPPP documentation is provided by the USFWS in the solicitation phase.

B. Contractor shall obtain all other necessary local, state, or federal permits prior to starting work.

2.5 DAILY REPORTS AND PROGRESS PHOTOS

A. Contractor shall prepare and submit to the COR a daily report for each day physical on-site work is accomplished. The report shall note days and durations of no-work on the project.

B. Contractor shall label and submit to the COR a minimum of two photographs for each day of work, which represents work accomplished for that day. Photos shall contain a date stamp representing the day of work.

2.6 SUSTAINABILITY

A. Products selected by the Contractor for incorporation into the work shall be environmentally friendly, energy efficient, renewable, or other sustainable improvements. Submit manufacturer’s literature demonstrating sustainability.

2.7 COMPLIANCE DOCUMENTATION

A. The Contractor shall (during normal working hours throughout the duration of the contract) promptly furnish information and provide reasonable facilities & access for obtaining information respecting: the character of the materials, condition of the work-in-progress, number of workers employed, their pay rate, time worked, inspection reports and test results from sampling and testing laboratories, and similar information.

PART 3 CONSTRUCTION

3.1 GENERAL CONSTRUCTION REQUIRMENTS

A. Contractor shall provide any necessary supervision, labor, materials, equipment, tools, testing, utilities, transportation, or other, which is necessary for proper execution and completion of the Work, regardless if it is temporary or permanent Work.

B. Security: Effectively secure the work site, staging areas, and materials storage areas.

C. Diligence: Perform all construction activities efficiently and with the requisite expertise, skill, and competence to satisfy the requirements of the Contract Documents. Contractor shall at all times exercise complete and exclusive control over the means, methods, sequences, and techniques of construction.

D. Supervision: Any time onsite work is underway, provide an onsite Project Manager or Project Superintendent who has a good working knowledge of the project work.

E. Subcontractors: Utilize general contractors and specialty subcontractors who are duly licensed and well qualified to perform the Work consistent with the Contract Documents; Government may reasonably object to Contractor's proposed selection of workers and business entities.

F. Other Contractors: Coordinate and cooperate with any other contractors working at the project site.

G. USFWS Operations: Schedule and coordinate construction activities so as not to unduly impact ongoing refuge / hatchery operations; USFWS operations have precedence over the construction activities.

3.2 CONSTRUCTION SAFETY

A. The Contractor shall have the ultimate responsibility for health and safety on the project site at all times, as described in CFR FAR 52.236-13, “Accident Prevention”.

B. The Contractor is responsible for ensuring that all onsite activities, facilities constructed, and equipment conform fully to the standards of the Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 29 CFR 1926 and 1910, and any supplemental DOI and USFWS policies.

C. Prepare, and submit for government review, a written permit space program for any identified

OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1203 identified confined spaces. Also inform employees and post signage per 1926.1203(b)(1).

D. Comply with all applicable Federal, State and local safety requirements. In the event where any safety standard referenced herein conflicts with another, the more stringent shall govern.

E. Initiate and maintain, throughout the performance of this contract, an effective health and safety program that provides adequate policies, procedures, and practices to protect workers from (and allow them to recognize) job-related health and safety hazards.

1. The program shall include provisions for the identification, evaluation, prevention and control of general work site hazards, specific job hazards, and potential hazards that may arise from foreseeable construction methods and conditions, as well as providing a competent person to conduct frequent and regular inspections.

2. Each employee (Contractor or subcontractor) must be instructed in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the regulations applicable to the work environment.

F. Provide barricades and warning devices as necessary to safeguard the public, workers, and government personnel. Where project work affects public roads, provide signage in accordance with the current edition of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) as published by the US Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration.

G. Rollover Protection and Seat Belts: In addition to the Accident Prevention clause Federal

Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.236-13, rollover protection and seat belts required by 29CFR 1926 (OSHA) shall be extended to include equipment regardless of the year of manufacturer.

3.3 CONSTRUCTION QUALITY CONTROL (CQC)

A. Designate in writing a single person to oversee and manage on-site quality control activities.

B. The Contractor is responsible for quality control of all project work including any sub-contracted work, and to submit thorough documentation that work fully complies with the construction documents and project permits.

C. Quality control processes include but are not limited to proactively:

1. Ensuring compliance with the construction documents and project permits.

2. Make vertical work plumb and make horizontal work level.

3. Managing specialty subcontractors.

4. Reviewing and processing samples, mockups, shop drawings and other construction submittals.

5. Ensuring that the workers have the appropriate expertise and proper equipment to perform the work.

6. Effectively utilizing third-party sampling & testing services (typically for earthwork gradation, compaction, concrete & asphalt testing, welding, pile driving, and other specialty inspections).

7. Initialing timely reviews and corrective actions to substrates prior to proceeding with subsequent work.

8. Timely involvement of industry specialists such as manufacturer representatives.

9. Managing system commissioning.

10. Conceal pipes, ducts, and wiring in finished areas unless otherwise indicated, and maintain headroom clearance of 96” in occupied spaces and 90” in unoccupied spaces.

11. Training USFWS personnel in system operation & maintenance.

12. Timely involvement of local authorities having jurisdiction.

13. Load-Limits: Heavy equipment operated on USFWS roads and parking areas shall comply with highway-legal load limits unless explicitly approved otherwise.

D. Field-verify all dimensions and conditions prior to performing the work. Notify the COR of any conflicts.

E. Improvements shall be constructed in accordance with the product manufacturer’s written instructions and standards.

F. Welding shall be performed by licensed welders and in compliance with American Welding Society recommended practices, structurally sound, and shall be neat in appearance.

G. Electrical work shall comply with the National Electrical Code, or State Code of more stringent, to the satisfaction of the local authority having jurisdiction. And shall be performed by state-licensed (by the state where the project is located) electricians who are licensed in the category of electrical being performed; photo-voltaic and telecommunications /data systems included.

H. Telecommunication (included telephone, data, radio, TV, similar) systems shall comply with the USFWS Regional 1, 7, and/or 8 Telecommunication standards, which will be provided upon request.

3.4 NOXIOUS WEED / SPECIES / PATHOGEN CONTROL

A. Wash any equipment (and transport trucks) at an approved site prior to entering the project area.

This is particularly important when transporting material or equipment from relatively distant areas.

B. Ensure and submit documentation that any straw bales and seed mixes are certified “weed-free”;

and if feasible, are from the local area; submit documentation.

C. Any floating silt screens or similar construction aids shall be brand new (unused) or have been newly washed and disinfected; submit documentation.

D. Comply with any other specific protocol required by the station to minimize potential introduction of invasive species such as rodents or plants that could be transported by equipment, materials, personnel or food products.

3.5 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

A. General: Comply with all applicable federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations.

This condition applies to, but is not limited to, laws and regulations governing noise levels, air and water quality standards, erosion control, surface runoff, and cultural resources.

B. Cultural Resources: Immediately stop work if paleontological, archaeological or historical remains (including burials or skeletal material) are encountered, until work is permitted to resume by written order from the Contracting Officer. Notify the Inspector, COR, or Contracting Officer immediately. The Contracting Officer will notify the Regional Archaeologist, so the provisions of 36 CFR 800.7 (Resources Discovered During Construction) and other relevant laws are followed.

Work in other areas may proceed as approved by the Contracting Officer.

C. Temporary Erosion and Sedimentation Control: Provide effective erosion control measures to prevent soil erosion and discharge of soil-bearing water runoff at the earliest feasible stage of construction. Regularly inspect and maintain the measures in effective working order. Promptly stop work in area(s) of any ineffective erosion control measures. Follow SWPPP if part of contract.

D. Tree and Plant Protection: Install temporary fencing located outside the drip line of trees to protect from damage from construction operations. Protect the tree root systems from damage, flooding, and erosion.

E. Vegetable-Based Hydraulics: Unless explicitly approved otherwise, dedicated onsite equipment operating near or over water bodies (or sensitive habitat) shall be equipped with vegetable-base hydraulic fluids. Consider alternates such as propane, electric, or air pneumatics.

F. Dust: Utilize effective means to prevent generation of wind-borne dust (typically watering or application of other approved dust control measures) and to prevent sediment from leaving the work site and/or entering storm sewers and water bodies. Method must be approved by the COR.

G. Damage: Protect adjacent vegetation, property, structures, and improvements from damage.

H. Hazardous Materials: Perform any hazardous materials work in strict accordance with governing hazardous materials regulations. Workers shall be knowledgeable and well trained in the handling of project-specific hazardous materials.

I. Spill Control: Provide effective spill containment measures at the earliest feasible stage of construction. Regularly inspect and maintain the measures in effective working order.

3.6 WORK LIMITS & CLEARING LIMITS

A. Work Limits: Unless approved otherwise, confine all construction equipment and disturbance with the work limits that typically include out-to-out top edge of access roads, parking areas, and staging areas.

B. Clearing Limits: Unless approved otherwise, remove all trees, shrubs, and similar vegetative matter and deleterious material within 10 feet beyond the footprint of the Work; and as shown on the drawings.

3.7 CLEANUP

A. In addition to the Clean Up clause Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.236-12, on a Daily basis, keep the work site and staging areas reasonably free from trash and construction waste/debris. Legally dispose waste materials from Government’s property. Recycle if applicable.

B. Upon Substantial Completion of the Work, promptly remove any debris, materials, equipment, and tools, temporary facilities; and restore any areas disturbed by the Work to their preconstruction condition.

3.8 MATERIAL & EQUIPMENT TRANSPORTATION, HANDLING, AND STORAGE

A. Contactor shall have a representative on site to receive material deliveries, and the contractor shall remain responsible for all material deliveries whether or not their representative is on site at the time of delivery or not.

B. Government-owned equipment is not available for Contractor’s use to accomplish any Work, and Government buildings and other facilities are not available for storage of Contractor’s materials, equipment, and tools.

C. Transport, handle, and store materials and equipment in accordance with the manufacturer’s written instructions, and in a secure manner.

D. Store products that are subject to damage by the elements, under cover in a weathertight enclosure above ground, with ventilation adequate to prevent condensation. Protect liquids from freezing.

E. Promptly remove from the project site any materials or equipment that are damaged or are otherwise unsuitable.

3.9 TESTING

A. Third-Party Sampling & Testing: On projects that entail third-party sampling and testing, the Contractor shall provide and pay for the services of an accredited independent construction materials testing laboratory meeting the minimum requirements of ASTM E239-11c.

B. When work involves any of the below items, provide third-party Testing Lab Services:

1. Soils classification, gradation, and/or compaction.

2. Concrete strength, air-content, slump, and similar

3. Structural welds

4. Asphalt

5. Pile-driving

6. Other, as noted in other sections.

3.10 COMMISSIONING & TRAINING

A. Provide industry-certified Commissioning Specialist(s) (preferably firms recommended by the systems manufacturers) to oversee and/or perform system commissioning; to include start-up, adjustment, balancing, measurement and documentation that systems function within the manufacturer’s and designer’s prescribed operating parameters.

B. Include the commissioning documentation in (and submit) the Operation & Maintenance Manuals.

C. Training: After the systems are fully functional and are operating properly, thoroughly familiarize the local USFWS staff with the improvements and train them to be proficient in overall system operation and maintenance.

D. Tools and Spare Parts: Deliver to the project site all specialty tools, valve handles, fan belts, filters, spare parts, keys and similar devices such that the USFWS staff is able to operate and maintain the work.

3.11 FINAL WALK THOUGH

A. Submit a preliminary list of unfinished work and notify the COR at least ten (10) calendar days prior to the anticipated date of completion of all work.

B. The COR will perform final walk through as promptly as practicable.

C. The time required for such walk through and for making any corrections as a result thereof shall be included in the contract performance time.

D. The Contractor representative responsible for the work shall be present at the final walk through and shall submit a preliminary list of unfinished work.

3.13 CLOSEOUT DOCUMENTS

A. Operation and Maintenance Manuals:

1. Submit 3 copies of Operation and Maintenance manual (two paper copies to the USFWS field station and one electronic Adobe.pdf to the USFWS Regional Office Engineering).

2. Include complete parts lists keyed to suppliers; name, address, websites, email and telephone numbers for each.

3. Include fully executed manufacturer’s standard material, product, and equipment warranties.

4. Include systems commissioning documentation in (and submit) the Operation & Maintenance Manuals.

B. Submit any requested regulatory-agency clearance documents indicating the work complies with their requirements such as finalized plumbing/gas/electrical inspections.

C. After completion of the work and prior to final payment, submit a properly executed by the Contractor Release of Claims, Form DI-137, releasing claims against the United States arising out of this contract, other than claims specifically excepted from the operation of the release.

D. Record Drawings:

a. Submit a full-size paper-copy set of red-lined drawings and complete set of specifications that clearly indicates the as-constructed work.

b. Scan the full-size paper-copy set of red-lined drawings and submit a .pdf to the COR.

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