A04_SOW_Billings_FO_2025_Riparian_Monitoring.pdf

Billings Field Office 2025 Riparian Monitoring

DOI-BLM-MT-C010

March 2025

Billings Field Office 5001 Southgate Drive Billings, MT 59101

Statement of Work

Table of Contents 1 Background

2 Scope

3 Qualification and Experience Requirements

4 Reference Materials

5 Requirements

6 Deliverables and Schedule

7 Government Furnished Property

8 Contractor Furnished Property

9 Teleconferences and Correspondence

10 Payment

11 Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors

12 Appendix A: Maps

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1 Background The client is the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which manages public lands for multiple uses, including conservation, recreation, grazing, mining, and energy development. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), an agency of the United States Department of the Interior, is required by regulation 43 CFR part §4180 to provide for the fundamentals of rangeland health (http://www.gpoaccess.gov/cfr/index.html) that allotments must be meeting or making significant progress towards meeting the standards established in the Montana/Dakotas Standards for Rangeland Health and Guidelines for Livestock Management Final Environmental Impact Statement dated August 7, 1997 .

The BLM is responsible for maintaining and restoring the health and function of riparian areas on public lands, which provide critical ecosystem services and support diverse wildlife and plant communities. The BLM uses the proper functioning condition (PFC) protocol to assess the physical functioning of riparian-wetland areas based on hydrology, vegetation, and soil/landform attributes for lotic areas. The PFC protocol is a qualitative and interdisciplinary method that involves field observations, professional judgment, and best available science.

The Billings Field Office (BiFO) has divided the office boundary into ten unique landscape areas to focus monitoring efforts, land health assessments, and project development more efficiently. The lotic riparian monitoring data collected and report will be included as Standard 2 (Riparian) of the Montana Dakotas Standards and Guidelines of Livestock Grazing Management (1997).

2 Scope

1. Conducting riparian PFC assessments on 21 lotic sites in Carbon County, MT within the Billings Field Office boundary (see attached maps). The stream segments will be selected based on the BLM’s priorities, data availability, accessibility, and representativeness.

2. Applying the PFC protocol as described in the BLM Technical Reference 1737-15 (2017) for lotic (flowing water) systems. Following the PFC protocol’s steps of pre-field preparation, field data collection, data analysis and synthesis, documentation and reporting, and feedback and follow-up.

3. Collecting field data on hydrology, vegetation, and soil/landform attributes using standardized forms, checklists, maps, photographs, and other tools. Measuring or estimating relevant parameters such as stream channel dimensions, bank stability, floodplain connectivity, vegetation cover and composition, soil texture and moisture, erosion and deposition rates, etc. Data will be collected using Survey 1,2,3 forms on a contractor furnished tablet.

4. Analyzing field data using appropriate methods such as rating criteria tables, functional rating matrices, trend indicators, reference conditions, etc. Determining the PFC status of each stream segment or wetland site as either proper functioning condition (PFC), functional at risk (FAR), or nonfunctional (NF). Identifying the causes and sources of impairment or degradation if any. Evaluating the potential for recovery or improvement if any.

http://www.gpoaccess.gov/cfr/index.html)

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5. Preparing a comprehensive report that summarizes the results of the riparian PFC assessments consistent with Standard 2 of the Montana/Dakotas Standards and Guidelines for Livestock Grazing Management (1997).

3 Qualification and Experience Requirements Offerors shall submit a one-page resume of all key personnel proposed for this contract. A minimum of two personnel would be present to work on each Proper Functioning Condition (PFC) checklist to determine the degree of functionality of lotic riparian areas.

At a minimum the field crew must have one soils/vegetation specialist and one hydrologist for each rangeland health assessment. At a minimum for the riparian assessments there must be one journeyman level hydrologist and one vegetation specialist. At least one person must have at Proper Functioning Condition (PFC) training. Formal training for lotic PFC must include a certificate of completion from a full 3-day course or proof of journey level experience conducting PFC. If these trainings are not available due to extraordinary circumstances, there is a potential for the BLM to waive the training requirement if the personnel have equivalent training and experience. The contractor will need to provide detailed resumes on each personnel, explaining training and experience. If key personnel specialists change throughout the contract, new proposed specialist will need to be approved by the Contracting Officers Representative (COR) prior to being assigned to work on the contract.

4 Reference Materials

1. Montana/Dakotas Standards for Rangeland Health and Guidelines for Livestock Grazing Management Final Environmental Impact Statement, August 7, 1997; see https://archive.org/details/montanadakotasst65unit/page/n13

2. Technical Reference 1737-15 Riparian Area Management, User guide to assessing Proper Functioning Condition and the Supporting Science for Lotic Areas. Second Edition 2015; see Proper Functioning Condition Assessment for Lotic Areas, TR 1737-15 (blm.gov)

3. Hansen PL, Pfister RD, Boggs K, Cook BJ, Joy J, Hinckley DK. Classification and management of Montana's riparian and wetland sites. No. 54, 1-646. 1995. Montana Forest and Conservation Experiment Station, School of Forestry, University of Montana. Miscellaneous Publication.

https://archive.org/details/montanadakotasst65unit/page/n13 https://www.blm.gov/sites/default/files/documents/files/TR_1737-15.pdf

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5 Requirements

Carbon County, MT riparian reaches

5.0.1 Reach List

1. Complete Proper Functioning Condition Assessments 28 stream miles on 21 lotic reaches in Carbon County, MT, at the following sites.

Miles Reach X coord Mid Y coord Mid

0.89 Lower SF Bridger Creek -108.83830987 45.21001162

0.44 Upper SF Bridger Creek -108.81377969 45.20626921

0.48 Gyp Springs -108.42884667 45.00341152

0.18 Piney Creek -108.59611208 45.10229026

2.85 Silvertip 4 -108.95381826 45.04188515

0.73 Dilworth Creek -109.15532889 45.06660221

0.49 Dilworth Triangle -109.13981090 45.06031675

0.70 Lower Dilworth Crek -109.11486219 45.04917243

0.46 Gold Creek -109.18928686 45.07633848

1.00 Upper North Fork Grove Creek -109.22544088 45.10234664

4.11 Hunters Creek -108.82122548 45.06470894

2.18 Wolf Creek -109.11406524 45.11075692

0.57 Bear Creek -109.23883020 45.11971244

0.76 Grove Creek Lower -109.08365673 45.07605258

1.80 NF Grove Extra -109.19453642 45.10014766

1.18 Silvertip 1 -108.96649252 45.14830288

5.40 Silvertip 2 -108.96360870 45.11715934

1.91 SF Grove Extra -109.18729317 45.09661190

1.06 SF Grove Creek Upper -109.22463104 45.09044232

0.41 SF Dry Creek Upper -109.17427019 45.20719216

0.48 SF Dry Creek -109.04926277 45.21335082

28 TOTAL

2. Field work can be completed from date of contract through November 1, 2025

3. Preparing a comprehensive report that summarizes the results of the riparian PFC assessments.

5.0.2 Timing

The contractor will have the option of completing a portion of the field work in 2026, between May 1st, 2026, and June 30th, 2026, if certain conditions exist which inhibit being able to complete the field surveys in 2025. Some of those conditions are as follows:

1. Timing of finalizing contract

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2. Completing the field work for at least half the reaches in 2025.

3. Environmental conditions such as red flag warnings and other conditions impeding field work.

Reporting Requirements The report should include an introduction that describes the project background, scope, objectives, and methods. The report should also include a main body that presents the results of the riparian PFC assessments for each stream segment. The main body should include a description of the site location, characteristics and a summary of the field data and observations;

an analysis of the PFC status and trend; and a discussion of the factors affecting the riparian function and health. The report should also include a conclusion that synthesizes the main findings and implications of the project. The report should also include recommendations for management actions and monitoring strategies to maintain or improve the riparian condition and function. The report should also include appendices that provide supporting information and documentation such as field data forms, maps, photographs, references, etc.

Monitoring Requirements

1. The contractor will determine access routes to each stream reach. Notify private landowners/grazing lessees when you will be conducting the assessments to gain access across private land if needed. A letter will be sent out to the allotment grazing lessee by the BLM prior to field season.

2. Notes and comments shall include any observations and other pertinent information not included on the forms such as describing wildlife use/observations, livestock use, off-site influences, Montana State listed noxious weed species, additional disturbances, and any other relevant remarks.

a. Lotic Reaches:

1. Complete PFC forms for all potential stream reaches identified in the tables above.

Three maps each are also included for the reaches in the Upper Musselshell and Clarks Fork Landscape Areas. The following is a list of the required forms: Reach Information Form (Lotic); PFC Assessment Form (Lotic); Lotic PFC Riparian Plant List Form. The forms and instructions can be found in Appendix A at the following location:

Proper Functioning Condition Assessment for Lotic Areas, TR 1737-15 (blm.gov)

• Each Item should have a short rational for the answer (Yes, No, N/A).

• Record the GPS location at the beginning and end of the reach using decimal degrees (WGS 1984).

• All forms would be collected using a Survey 1,2,3.

2. The seral communities will be identified through utilization of the publication, Classification and Management of Montana’s Riparian and Wetland Sites (Hansen, 1995). The riparian habitat type and community type that best fit the ecological https://www.blm.gov/sites/default/files/documents/files/TR_1737-15.pdf

P a g e | 5 conditions observed along each site will be briefly summarized for lotic systems within the Reach Information Form (TR-1737-15– Instructions and Forms, page 107 – 108).

Hansen PL, Pfister RD, Boggs K, Cook BJ, Joy J, Hinckley DK. Classification and management of Montana's riparian and wetland sites. No. 54, 1-646. 1995. Montana Forest and Conservation Experiment Station, School of Forestry, University of Montana. Miscellaneous Publication.

3. Four digital photos will be submitted for each assessment site.

• Two photos will be taken at the upstream end of the reach, one looking upstream and one looking downstream, and two photos will be taken at the downstream end of the reach, one looking upstream and one looking downstream.

• Additional photos can be taken to capture notable riparian and channel characteristics.

4. Delineate and provide a geomorphic characterization of each stream reach as described in -

Rosgen, D.L., 1994, A classification of natural rivers. Table 1. Catena, 22 (1994) 169- 199.

Stream classification provides a description and comparison of geomorphic characteristics of channels. This information should provide a reviewer-of-the-evaluation an understanding of channel, floodplain, and valley characteristics. The Rosgen stream classification system is widely used and provides a “common language” to communicate streambank erosion processes, channel-forming processes, variability in sediment dynamics, streamflow change potential, reach breaks due to changes in complexes, and vegetative influences on channel form and stability.

• Complete the Field Measurements for PFC data sheet.

• Record the latitude and longitude of the riffle in decimal degrees (WGS 1984).

• Under, ‘Actual Measurements for’, use the name of the stream and the specific reach identity.

5. Create a legible map that indicates the location, beginning, and end of the assessed reach.

6. Notes and comments shall include any observations and other pertinent information not included on the forms such as describing wildlife use/observations, livestock use, off-site influences, Montana State listed noxious weed species, additional disturbances, and any other relevant remarks.

6 Deliverables and Schedule Data Disclaimer Message - Any records (photographs, data, notes, etc.) generated and/or created for the purposes of this contract are owned by the BLM and require review and permission prior to release of any information. The contractor cannot copyright, sell, release, or reproduce any of this material. Images will not be protected from release through Freedom of Information Act requests.

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Field Surveys Complete field work of riparian areas by November 1, 2025, or between May 1 and July 15, 2026 if the base year is exercised. See considerations for authorizing completing work during the base year. The successful contractor will submit a schedule for completing field work.

Draft PFC data and report

1. All draft data and report will be submitted within 60 days of field work completion.

2. One complete set of all draft data in Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drive shall be submitted and shall include narrative executive summaries, stream classifications, PFC forms, maps of each assessed reach, digital photographs, and standard 2 assessment report.

Final PFC data and report

1. The final data and report will be submitted within 90 days of field work completion.

2. One complete set of all draft data in Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drive shall be submitted and shall include narrative executive summaries, stream classifications, PFC forms, maps of each assessed reach, digital photographs, and standard 2 assessment report.

7 Government Furnished Property

1. Site and stream locations: GPS locations, maps, shapefiles, digital georeferenced PDF maps.

2. Digital version of maps of the allotments that include allotment numbers, names, boundaries, and stream reaches.

3. BLM grazing lessee contact information will be provided in order to aid with acquiring access to public lands which require private landowner permission. This information is NOT public, and the confidentiality of this information is to be maintained.

4. BLM will send out a letter notifying grazing lessees of the general time frame, assessment and monitoring will occur.

8 Contractor Furnished Property

1. Contractor should be prepared for hiking and driving in rough terrain, hot and cold temperature extremes, rattlesnakes, etc.

2. 8 megapixel or greater camera with geo-reference capability.

3. Equipment, tools, materials, supervision, and other items to complete the field work protocols outlined in the requirements section above.

4. 4-wheel drive vehicle or UTVATV for transportation. The contractor will be responsible for making sure all vehicles, 4 wheelers, or UTV’s are washed regularly to reduce the spread of noxious weed seeds.

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5. The contractor will be responsible for carrying necessary fire extinguishers and any other safety/first aide equipment.

6. Contractor will provide tablets for data collection using Survey 1,2,3 forms.

9 Teleconferences and Correspondence

a) An initial pre-work teleconference will occur after award of the contract.

b) Other “as-needed” teleconferences, phone calls, or email correspondence with BLM shall be conducted whenever requested by the COR or the contractor in which questions relating to the project need to be discussed.

10 Payment Payment shall be made in accordance with the contract requirements at the price per reach (with supporting forms, photographs, and maps completed). Measurement for payment will be based on completed, reviewed and accepted products by the COR. Invoices can be submitted following the timelines and deliverables outlined in section 6.0 Deliverables.

Fifty percent of the payment for reaches will be paid upon completion of the field surveys and when list of completed sites is provided to the COR. This is intended to document that the survey is complete for the various reaches.

The remaining 50% will be paid after BLM acceptance of the final report(s). All data will be in electronic format that is compatible with BLM systems.

11 Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors

Technical Proposal Contents

11.0.1 Qualifications and Experience of Key Personnel

Offerors shall submit a resume of all key personnel proposed for this contract, which includes experience of the monitoring needs in this proposal. See additional qualification requirements in Section 2 of this document

11.0.2 Past Performance

Offerors shall submit a list of clients for past and present similar projects covering the past three

(3) years. Provide: contact name, address, phone number, e-mail address. The Government may survey these clients to obtain past performance information (quality, timeliness, cost control, business relationships) related to Offerors current and past work.

11.0.3 Quality Control Plan

Offerors shall submit their Quality Control Plan showing how they intend to meet the government performance standards for each task and subtask associated with this contract.

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12 Appendix A: Maps

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12 Appendix A: Maps