A04_SOW_Kona_Invasives_Ungulate_Removal.pdf

Performance Statement of Work

Ungulate Control

Kona Forest Unit of the Big Island NWRC

PART 1 GENERAL

Section 1.01 Summary of Work

The removal of feral ungulates (feral cattle, sheep, and pigs) from two fenced management units of the Kona Forest Unit (KFU) of Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge).

The desired result is complete removal of all ungulates from the two units, which total

1,851 acres and 1,908 acres, respectively, within 3 years.

Section 1.02 Project Location and Description

The Refuge is located approximately 26 road miles (23 miles paved, 3.5 miles unpaved) south of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, mauka of State Highway 11 (Figure 1). Driving time is approximately 1 hour from Kailua-Kona. There are three fenced units within the refuge, and the project will take place in the two upper (higher elevation) units (Figure 2).

There are an estimated 150-200 cattle in the two units (3,759 acres), with most found in the middle unit (Unit 2). There are fewer than 50 sheep, currently only in the upper unit

(Unit 1). There is no current estimate for the number of feral pigs present in both units. The combined animal population is having a serious impact on forest regeneration by browsing and damaging existing vegetation, preventing natural regeneration, contributing to soil erosion, spreading invasive weeds, and creating mosquito breeding habitat.

Prospective contractors shall submit bids and an overview of their qualifications to accomplish the following:

Task 1: Complete removal of cattle and sheep from both units within 12 months of

Notice to Proceed (NTP)

Task 2: Complete removal of feral pigs from both units within 3 years years of NTP

Option Item 1: Maintain fences to ensure timely removal is not disrupted by animals moving into the refuge.

Option Item 2: Install snares at a density of 1 per acre in each unit (3700 snares combined total for Units 1 and 2)

Option Item 3: Check and reset 3700 snares once per year, recording captures.

Over the course of the project, the contractor will provide labor, materials, and equipment unless otherwise noted or agreed upon by the refuge (Table 1). The Refuge goal is for maximum control eradication within both units and the contractor must provide data to demonstrate success. The contractor will provide data (age/sex/GPS location) and a photo documentation of animals dispatched or captured during their work on the Refuge. The

Refuge will carry-out ungulate surveys and use baited game cameras to confirm removal efforts are successful.

Section 1.03 Description of Terrain and Vegetation

The Refuge is located in a remote area of Mauna Loa (Figure 1). Work will be performed at elevations between 3,500 and 6,000 feet. The unit supports a variety of native rainforest and dryland natural communities that vary in terms of soil type, moisture regime, and degree of past disturbance. A mix of nonnative and native forest occurs in the lowest elevations (2,000’ – 3,500’). Uluhe (Dicranopteris linearis, false staghorn fern) may be a large component of the forest in these lower elevations. Native ohia dominated rainforest is found in the middle elevations (3,500 – 4,500’), ohia-koa mesic forest occurs in upper areas (4,500 – 5,500’), and a dense dryland mamane-sandalwood natural community in the highest elevations (5,500 – 6,000’). The average rainfall at high elevation (6,000 ft.) is approximately 30” inches per year and increases to an average of 80” inches at the lower elevation (2,000 ft.). This area has been used for approximately 100 years as a cattle ranch and for koa logging. These activities have modified the habitat from dense forest with natural understory to large ohia with little to no understory in areas.

Most of the project area has a moderate slope between 10 and 20 percent, although the upper elevations have slopes of less than 10 percent (State of Hawaii 1992). Soils are a thin layer of organic humus overlying weathered basalt of relatively recent ʻaʻa or pahoehoe lava flows. The grass-covered ʻaʻa and uneven terrain makes walking difficult in many areas across the refuge.

A diversity of native plants and animals is found on the refuge unit including endangered plants and animals, for which care must be exercised. Endangered plants are generally surrounded by small interior fences or are in skylights—no entry is permitted into either.

Hawaiian volcanic caves including lava tube caves and skylights (collapsed lava tubes open to the sky) are likely to be found throughout the refuge. These caves may contain rare or unusual plants and animals specialized for life in the cave ecosystem; cultural remains; and paleontological remains of recently extinct or prehistoric animals or plants. Entry to the caves, skylights, and lava tubes is prohibited, and care must be taken to avoid falling into hidden skylights.

Section 1.05 Weather

The Refuge sits within an elevation band that frequently receives heavy mist or light rain, making conditions generally wet. Weather conditions and temperatures at the site can be extreme and may change rapidly making work schedules weather dependent. The

Contractor must have the flexibility to take advantage of favorable weather windows.

Section 1.06 Access

The refuge access road is located on the east side of State Highway 11 near mile marker

100 (Figure 1). The access road is a steep, unimproved gravel road requiring a 4 X 4 vehicle that begins at State Highway 11 (900 ft. elevation, running along the southern boundary of Waiea Natural Area Reserve, to the Refuge entrance (5,300 ft. elevation).

There is no access permitted through the private property to the north of the refuge.

The Refuge has numerous internal 4WD, ATV and foot trails that can be used for access to fence lines and the interior of refige units (Figure 1 and 3). The entire fence line around both Units 1 & 2 can be driven by ATV/UTV, most of it by 4WD Truck. The internal jeep trails are rough and slippery under the best of conditions and may be impassable during frequent periods of heavy rain. Contractors may need to walk into areas due to wet and muddy road conditions following heavy rain events in order to protect the long-term use of roads. Wheeled vehicles are not permitted off trails or roads.

The management units are crossed by four transects that are used for biological surveys

(Figure 3). The transects run west to east (mauka to makai) along the entire length of the

Refuge and are spaced approximately 500m apart. These transects are not cleared trails but do provide marked foot access to areas inside management units where roads do not exist.

Section 1.07 Scope of Work

Ungulate Control: Eliminate ungulates (cattle, sheep, pigs) from both Management Units.

Cattle must be removed from a unit before refuge-owned pig traps can be deployed (Table

2). The Contractor may take cattle alive to the extent practical, but timelines must be met.

The unpaved road is extremely steep and not suitable for hauling large trailers. Roads must be maintained to current conditions throughout the project and any damage resulting from contract must be remedied/repaired by the contractor.

After cattle are removed, Refuge staff will conduct feral ungulate surveys to provide an estimate of the feral pig population density. These numbers provide a guideline or estimate and may not reflect the actual number of pigs within each unit. Removal is considered complete when fresh sign can no longer be detected during surveys, and pigs cannot be detected on baited game cameras that will be deployed across both Management

Units.

Control Methods Allowed

a) Documentation: Species, age, sex, a photo, and GPS location data will be collected and turned in for each of the following control methods:

b) Traps: The contractor can utilize traps to assist with control and eradication efforts.

Contractor is responsible for providing trapping materials, however, 20 Refuge-owned Pig Brig traps and 10 box traps are available for use by the contractor (Table

2). Trap locations will be agreed upon by Contractor and Refuge prior to set up to avoid impacts to endangered species (refuge staff will scope site). Known endangered plant locations to avoid will be provided. The contractor will be responsible for initial scouting and baiting of trapping areas. To comply with Refuge policies, box traps must be checked within 48hrs after opening. Pig Brig traps must be checked within 24 hours of being set (checked promptly each morning) to prevent damage to the nylon traps. Captured animals must be dispatched using a firearm and non-lead ammunition capable of delivering 300 foot-pounds of pressure on impact. Generally, a .22 long rifle or .22 LR handgun will not meet this standard. A pre-arranged location near each trap will be agreed upon for the disposal of carcasses at least 100 ft from roads and transects. Contractor will be responsible for providing bait that is free of invasive insects and invasive plant seeds. Irradiated papaya, packaged corn, grain, or sweet COB, roasted macadamia nuts and shells, and manufactured swine scents/lures are pre-approved baits. Bait must be used fresh or stored, at the contractorʻs expense, in a manner to prevent spoilage and prevent attracting rodents and other pests. All other baits will need to be approved and have biosecurity inspection by the COR prior to use.

c) Standard Firearms Strategies: Contractors can utilize methods such as stalking, use of firearms, bait piles, etc. A firearm and non-lead ammunition capable of delivering at least 300 foot-pounds of pressure on impact must be used. Generally, a standard .22 long rifle or .22 LR hand gun will not meet this standard. Carcasses must not be left within 100 ft of roads or transects.

d) Drives/Sweeps: Contractors can utilize drives or sweeps to move animals around the unit and/or into corrals. Drives can be periodically scheduled activities throughout the year or can be impromptu when contractors are in the forest and the intent is to move animals around the unit. Animals shall not be driven out of the refuge to be released on neighboring land. Contractor may, however, make arrangements with neighboring land managers for animals to be corralled for removal.

e) Canine Use: The refuge may consider targeted use of canines to assist with control efforts on a case-by-case basis. If dogs are allowed, they must be collared with GPS locators. Snares can be deactivated during canine use but must be re-deployed when work with dogs is concluded. Contractors are responsible for the care and welfare of the animals and must keep them from entering/falling into lava skylights, and provide all equipment, food, and kenneling needs. Dogs must be under the supervision and control of contractor at all times and may not be left unattended onsite.

(a) Ungulate Control – Snares (Option Item 1 and 2): Provide snare deployment and snare maintenance in both management units. Snares shall be distributed at an average density of 1 snare per acre, e.g. 1900 snares in Unit 1 and 1800 snares in Unit

2, for a total of 3700 snares, in groups of ten snares. The deployment and flagging of individual snares, snare groups (sets of 10 snares), and trails between snare groups will be maintained according to Refuge specifications (Section 1.17, below). The snares will be inspected for catches and reset at least once per year, summarized in a report to the Refuge annually. Live animals caught in snares will be dispatched by firearms meeting the same standards as for trapping. Carcasses may be left in place.

Broken snares will be removed and replaced, and overgrown/fallen snares will be reset. All snaring materials (snares, thread, flagging, etc.) will be provided by the vendor. The contractor will need to use their own GPS units to mark locations of newly installed snare sets to provide coordinates to the Refuge. Bids should be formatted to indicate the total cost for deployment of 3700 snares across two units (Option Item 1), and for two rounds of annual maintenance (Option Item 2).

(b) Fence Maintenance/Repair (Option Item 3): Inspect and maintain fences enclosing both Units 1 and 2 four times per year, for three years. The goal is to maintain the ungulate-proof integrity of the fence line around the management units. Units are inspected on foot and/or by vehicle. Vendor provides own transportation and equipment. Inspection involves traveling along the entire fence line and detecting fence breaches. Maintenance involves repairing broken/cut hogwire mesh, barbwire, animal digging under fence, and tree falls which must be addressed so that ungulates will not enter the unit. Fences are to be maintained to the original construction specifications of 75" woven "hogwire" with a strand of barbwire on the bottom and one strand of barbwire 8" above the hogwire. The western (makai) boundary of each unit are interior fence lines with no barbwire on the top. Clips are placed along the T-posts at the top, bottom and 5 in the middle. Bottom of fencing should be no higher than 2 inches from the ground. In areas where the fence cannot be pulled down to the ground, woven wire "aprons" are also fastened to the bottom of the fence as needed to prevent pigs from squeezing underneath. The refuge will provide fencing materials to conduct routine repairs. Extensive damage caused by an extreme storm event will be handled through a separate process. Bid should be recorded as the total cost to inspect and repair all fences quarterly for three years.

Table 1. Lengths of fence segments comprising Units 1 and 2 of Kona Forest Unit

Fence Segment Description Length (ft)

Segment 1 Unit 2 North 9143

Segment 2 Unit 1 North 8812

Segment 3 Unit 1 West (mauka) 9836

Segment 4 Unit 1 South 9046

Segment 5 Unit 1/Unit 2 Divider 9757

Segment 6 Unit 2 South 8274

Segment 7 Unit 2 East (makai) 8529

TOTAL 63,397 ft (12.03 miles)

Section 1.08 Management Unit Description

Upper Unit (Unit 1): The upper unit is 1,908 acres (Figure 1) . It includes open meadows, ohia-koa mesic (4,500 – 5,500’), and a dense dryland mamane-sandalwood native forest in the highest elevations (5,500 – 6,000’). The perimeter and camp is fully accessible by 4WD vehicle and the interior is crossed by a number of ATV trails. There are four biological survey transects that run east-west through the unit which provides additional navigation by foot.

Fence Maintenance/Repair – The unit is roughly square with sides ranging from

1.7 to 2 miles in length (Table 1). There are three vehicular access gates along the western (makai) boundary (providing access between Units 1 and 2), and 3 gates along each of the north and south boundaries.

Snare Deployment/Maintenance – Contractor will deploy 1900 snares along the four transect lines. Snare deployment, flagging, monitoring, and maintenance will be done according to Refuge Standards. Snares will be checked at least 1x each year.

Feral Ungulate Population Estimates –In this unit it is estimated that there are fewer than 50 sheep (including mouflon-hybrid and domestic sheep), fewer than 50 cattle, and an undetermined number of feral pigs.

(c) Middle Unit (Unit 2): The Middle Unit is 1,851 acres. It is wetter than the upper unit and primarily includes native ohia-dominated rainforest (3,500 – 4,500’) with open understory and areas containing thickly matted ferns (uluhe). The perimeter is fully accessible by 4WD and the interior is crossed by few ATV trails. Four biological survey transects run east-west through the unit and provide additional access by foot.

Fence Maintenance/Repair – The unit is roughly square with sides ranging from

1.7 to 1.9 miles in length (Table 1). There are three vehicular access gates along the eastern (mauka) boundary (providing access between Units 1 and 2), and 2 gates along each of the north and south boundaries.

Snare Deployment/Maintenance – Contractor will deploy 1800 snares along the four transect lines. Snare deployment, flagging, monitoring, and maintenance will be done according to Refuge Standards. Once deployed, snares will be checked at least 1x each year.

Feral Ungulate Population Estimates –In this unit it is estimated that there are few or no sheep, 150 cattle, and an undetermined number of feral pigs.

Section 1.09 Equipment

All equipment, tools, transportation, and labor will be provided by the contractor unless otherwise noted in description.

The Refuge will not be responsible for theft or vandalism of contractor's property.

The contractor is responsible for all tools, and equipment needed to complete the ungulate removal project as well as the cost to transport them to and from the site. The Refuge will not provide any communications equipment or personal protective equipment.

Section 1.10 Labor, Supplies, and Transportation Costs

The Contractor will be responsible for providing the necessary equipment, supplies, tools, and labor required to complete the ungulate removal project per the specifications contained herein. The Contractor will also be responsible for transporting all equipment, materials, personnel, and supplies to and from each project site.

The Contractor is solely responsible for transport of the materials, bait, etc. to the project site, and for the removal of all items owned by the contractor at the end of the project.

Section 1.11 Site Preparation

Proposed sites for new traps (all types) will be approved by refuge staff to avoid unintended impacts to natural resources. A map of known endangered plant locations to avoid will be provided by the Refuge. Prior to setting up new trap sites, Contractor will coordinate with Refuge staff who will check the site for rare/endangered plants and historic features prior to trap construction. Any areas of special concern will be conspicuously flagged and must not be disturbed or damaged. If human remains, historic or prehistoric artifacts are found, work will cease in the vicinity of the finding and USFWS

Cultural Resources staff will be notified immediately.

The Contractor will be responsible for any vegetation clearing required for trap installation. Project sites include rain forests with dense fern and shrub understory. Open grassy areas exist and should be prioritized for trap placement, but some vegetation brushing may be required. Any clearing will be done by hand or with small power tools only (no heavy equipment). The Contractor may clear an access corridor to traps no more than eight feet (8’) ft. in width. Debris must be scattered away from the trap site. No standing trees greater than 4” DBH shall be cut. Cutting of any ʻōhiʻa will be avoided to prevent the spread of rapid ohia death (ROD).

Section 1.12 Hunting

Contractor may shoot feral ungulates seen roaming within the two units, and only within those assigned units. Age, sex, and location data must be collected and turned in and noted as “incidental take.” All State hunting laws and guidelines regarding firearms safety and use will apply.

Section 1.13 Storage

It is up to the contractor to provide any necessary offsite or on-site storage for materials and equipment, and ensure bait is stored free from pests (e.g., no rodents/mites/weevils/invasive ants in stored feed sacks).

Section 1.14 Fire Prevention

The Contractor will be required to have at least two 4.5 kg (10 lb.) fire extinguishers for suppression and control of type A and B fires on the job site at all times. These extinguishers must be readily accessible at any time that a potential ignition source such as a power tool, generator, or spark emitter is in use. All gasoline powered equipment must have a functioning spark arrestor. Propane/Butane camp stoves may be used with care and only at camp locations that have been pre-approved by the Refuge Manager. No open camp fires are allowed. Absolutely NO WELDING is permitted on the project site.

Section 1.15 Trash and unused foodstuffs

Contractor will remove all food, refuse, tools, camping gear and scrap regularly and upon completion of the project.

Do not bury trash in the field or attempt to compost foodstuffs. Avoid taking in any fruits that have seeds with the potential to naturalize (e.g. cherry tomatoes, chili peppers, berries, and guava). Organic trash (e.g. orange and banana skins) should be treated as other garbage and packed out. Garbage may not be discarded in the field as it has the potential to spread insects, fungi, and other plant pathogens and may provide food for pests.

Section 1.16 Project Completion

The Contractor will remove all equipment and materials brought in for the project prior to project completion.

Section 1.17 Minimum Experience Requirement

Offeror shall provide a description of and references from at least two (2) feral ungulate

(e.g. pig, goat, cattle, sheep, or deer) removal projects in remote areas with limited road access conducted in ungulate management units of at least 1,000 acres in size. Must be familiar with firearms, ungulate trapping, and snaring in remote areas with rough terrain. A valid Hawaii State Hunting License and proof of firearm safety training is required.

Section 1.18 Access and Coordination

a) Access to the Refuge must be scheduled in advance with the COR using a shared calendar. All gates will be secured in the manner they are found (i.e. padlocked, tied or wired shut) unless open prior to passage. All main entry gates to the refuge are locked with a keyed padlock that will be provided by the Refuge, while interior gates are locked with combination locks. A single key and all gate codes will be provided to the contractor. If a padlock must be unlocked to gain entry, be certain to interlink it with the adjacent padlock(s) when re-locking so that the gate may be opened by those padlocks as well.

b) Management hunts and drives will be coordinated in advance with the Refuge manager and the area will be closed to refuge staff and other refuge permittees until the activity is complete.

c) The Refuge Manager has the authority to stop activities at any time due to safety concerns, violations, or force majeure events until a review is completed and activities are re-authorized.

Section 1.19 Equipment, Materials and Labor

All equipment, tools, transportation, and labor will be provided by the contractor unless otherwise noted. The Refuge will not be responsible for theft or vandalism of contractor's property.

Communications equipment is not provided by the Refuge and both radio and cellular options are limited. Satellite beacons or inReach type devices are recommended.

Materials that will be supplied by Hakalau Forest NWR:

Hakalau Forest NWR will provide the following materials and maintain ownership of these materials at the end of the project. The contractor will be responsible for repairing nets and replacing lost/broken parts as needed, and maintaining traps in good condition, subject to normal wear and tear. The contractor will be responsible for supplying any materials and bait above and beyond those listed below which are necessary to complete the ungulate removal project as specified.

Table 2. Refuge Supplied Materials

QTY Material 20 Pig Brig net-style corral traps and associated straps, hooks, etc.

10 Portable box traps Material required for routine fence repair.

Section 1.20 Camps

An existing permanent camp is available for non-exclusive use by the contractor, in as-is condition and includes the following:

1. Two newly-constructed 12 X 15 weatherports for sleeping. Tent camping anywhere within camp fence perimeter is also acceptable.

2. One long-standing 20x30 cooking/dining tent.

3. Shower shed with hot and cold running water.

4. Outhouse

5. Non-potable water provided by a small catchment tank.

6. Fenced perimeter to exclude cattle (does not exclude pigs).

Use of the camp is subject to the following restrictions:

1. Camp is also used by staff and partner organizations. Contractor will schedule use of the camp using an online calendar to which access will be provided.

2. Contractor will remove all food, refuse, valuables, and construction scrap whenever departing from the camp.

3. Firepits/Campfires are not allowed. Propane/butane camp stoves are acceptable for use in designated areas.

4. Contractors will utilize the outhouse or provide port-a-johns at own expense.

Away from camp, human waste may be disposed of in shallow (10 inch deep) pit latrines.

5. Firearms will be stored in a locked container other than a vehicle when not in use.

6. Contractor will leave the camp in condition to be used by staff and partners whenever not actively in use.

7. Refuge is not responsible for the security of any materials left on-site between visits.

8. Contractor will remove all refuse, tools, camping gear, bait, scrap material, etc.

from the camp upon completion of the contract.

9. A final inspection of the camp and remedy of any refuse issues will be required prior to final payment.

10. Use of alternate camp sites is subject to Refuge approval.

Section 1.21 Native and alien plants and animals.

1. No plants, including seed, plant parts, and wood, may be removed from the

Refuge. No plants or plant parts may be brought into the Refuge.

2. Native animals, including insects and snails, and native animal parts such as feathers or bones may not be removed from the Refuge.

3. Bio-security Protocols: See addendum.

4. No dogs, horses, pets, or domestic animals allowed unless otherwise agreed to by the COR.

Section 1.22 Maps

Figure 1: Overview map of Kona Forest Unit, neighboring state and federal conservation lands. Access Road is off of Mamalahoa Hwy, between the 99 and 100 mile markers, near the Waiea Transfer Station. The three fenced units are bordered in blue, with roads shown in black. The camp is shown as a white circle with a green tent in Unit 1. The proposed project will take place in the upper two fenced units, Units 1 and 2.

Figure 2. Approximate measurements of the fence segments enclosing Units 1 (mauka) and

Unit 2 (middle). No work is slated for Unit 3 in this project—the “makai” unit in this project refers to Unit 2.

BINWRC-Kona Forest Unit Units 1-3, Original 5,300 ac

Unit 1 Unit 2 Unit 3

Figure 3: Location of transects stations for navigation and snare placement.

Section 1.23 Performance Work Statement Summary

This project calls for the following:

• Eradication of all Cattle and Sheep from each of the two units (Price per unit).

• Eradication of all pigs from each of the two units (Price per unit).

• Option 1: Deployment of 3700 snares (Price for installation).

• Option 2: Annual snare checks; i.e. 3700 snares set and checked once per year in

Year 2 and 3.

• Option 3: Fence inspection and maintenance quarterly (Price per year)

• Include a timeline that covers at a minimum, the project start, end and frequency of deployments.

• Data and reports provided to Refuge Manager:

Within first 3 months:

o Begin animal dispatch in units 1&2 and deploy refuge provided traps when the area is free of cattle. Provide progress report detailing successes and failures. Summary to include all trapping and capture gear used, number of ungulates (cattle, sheep, pigs) removed and supporting documentation.

At end of first year:

o Provide progress report detailing successes and failures. Summary to include all trapping and capture gear used, number of ungulates (cattle, sheep, pigs) removed and supporting documentation.

At end of second year:

At end of third year:

The last six months of the contract:

o Provide the refuge with a final summary report of all trapping and capture gear used, number of ungulates (cattle, sheep, pigs) removed and recommendations on successful trapping and capture methods.

Bid Schedule

For Ungulate Control and Fence Maintenance at the Kona Forest Unit of the Big Island NWRC

1. Base bid Ungulate Control (Units 1 & 2)

Bid Items:

Cattle and Sheep Eradication Unit 1 (Total Price) $______________ Cattle and Sheep Eradication Unit 2 (Total Price) $______________ Feral Pig Eradication Unit 1 (Total Price) $______________ Feral Pig Eradication Unit 2 (Total Price) $______________

(Basebid Total Price) $______________

Option Items:

1. Snare Deployment (3,700 set) (Total Price) $______________

2. Snare Check/Reset (3,700 checked 2x) (Total Price) $______________

3. Quarterly Fence Inspection/Repair (4x3 yrs) (Total Price) $______________

Basebid + Option Items 1-3 (TOTAL PRICE): $_______________

Incomplete Bids will not be considered. Not all Bid Items may be selected at time of award. Government shall award bid items based on the cost of the bid items and the availability of funds at time of award. If additional funds become available after the contract is awarded, additional bid items may be added to the contract based on the price submitted at time of award.

Name of Bidder and Company

Address (Include Zip Code)

Appendix 1: Standards for Snare Deployment (SOPs)

GPS points for all transect stations will be provided to the contractor. Ten snares constitute a snare group. At least one snare group (and up to 4 snare groups) should be placed near each station with suitable habitat. There are approximately 144 stations. Remaining snare groups may be placed in areas of high pig activity along the same transects or may follow roads. Snares should never be placed immediately in the transect walkway, road, nor be connected to fences.

A) Identification

• Pink/green on first and last snare of group

• Pink on individual snares

• Orange trail between snares if not in sight

• Orange trail to transect if some distance away

• Group identifier - orange/green on transect with metal tag

• Example Tag label – SS T7 – 5 would be Snare Set (group) #5 on Transect 7

• GPS Point taken with same identifier (SST7-5)

B) Coverage

• Minimum area of snare group about 20’ x 40’

• Maximum area of snare group about 60'x60'

• 10 snares in each group

• Maximum two snares on one anchor

• Minimum distance between groups - 20m

• Minimum distance from a road – 20 m

C) Set up

• Upholstery thread to be used always, with loop around cable knot.

• Thread secured to solid limb

• Bottom of noose eight inches off the ground

• Flagging must be visible either on anchor or limb not more than three feet away

• Noose set up horizontally, opened fully, sliding side down

• Tether as short as possible

• Wrap tether around anchor two times minimum with double overhand wrap

• Secure anchor close to the ground

• Can use a stick to prop the swivel especially if the tether is long

• Live tree should be no smaller than three inches

• Hapu`u (tree ferns) and dead trees or brush should not be used as anchors

• Other anchors should be tested before being used

• Site snares in active areas or on well used pig trails

D) Standards for Snare Inspection

• All snares will be accounted for

• Data will be collected on established form

• Live captures will be dispatched in most humane way, e.g. firearm

• Damaged snares will be replaced to maintain uniform density

• Disturbed or replacement snares will be brought to deployment standards

• Dispatched pigs or carcasses will be marked with flagging or metal tags with date of inspection

• Pigs should be handled with surgical gloves

• Age, sex and location data will be collected from each catch

• Damaged snares will be removed from the field and it is the responsibility of vendor to recycle

• Flagging will be maintained

Appendix 2: Invasive Pest Prevention Standard Operating Procedures

(SOPs)

PREVENTING INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD OF ALIEN SPECIES

AT THE KONA FOREST UNIT of HAKALAU FOREST NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Control of non-native plants, animals and pathogens is a high priority for Hakalau Forest

National Wildlife Refuge. Management of invasive species at Hakalau Forest/Kona Forest and other conservation areas in Hawaii requires large amounts of personnel time and resources. In addition to existing invasive species, new pests and pathogens continue to arrive in the islands. Visitors, volunteers, contractors, researchers, and staff are potential vectors of alien species in the Refuge. The origin of these alien pests can be the mainland, another island in the Hawaiian archipelago, or even a weedy or urban area of the same island. If the procedures described below are followed, we can minimize or eliminate introduction and spread of alien pests and pathogens at Hakalau Forest NWR. This protocol is especially important for individuals conducting scientific studies or contract work on the refuge, who may routinely visit other natural areas with infestations of alien species.

1) Inspect field gear and equipment before going into the field.

The categories of particular concern are weeds, insects (especially ants and cockroaches), slugs and the fungus that causes Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death. Clods of dirt or mud can hide these hitchhikers. It is necessary to inspect and clean all: footwear (treads, laces, boot tongues);

socks; pant legs; pockets; jackets; raingear (pockets and cuffs); foodstuffs; tools; packs

(folds, pockets, velcro); tents; hammocks; tarps/pop-ups; helicopter sling nets; wood and building materials; fencing materials; bottoms of plastic buckets; tool bags; and other containers or equipment.

It is preferable to use a different set of field gear for each field site. At the Kona Forest Unit, all raingear, boots and packs will be dedicated to use at the Kona Forest Unit for the duration of the project. For other gear and clothing, appropriate methods for cleaning include: water and hose, brush, clean rag, knife edge, and insecticide. To eliminate

Ceratocystis spores, equipment, gear, footwear and clothing must be cleaned with 70% rubbing alcohol or 10% bleach. Further information to prevent spreading Rapid ʻŌhi‛a

Death can be found on Rapid 'Ohi'a Death HOME (hawaii.edu). Cleaning should be done off the refuge or in a designated area with a nearby receptacle for disposal. Laundering of washable items should be done after each trip. This is particularly important when working on different islands, in different areas on the same island, or on the mainland. Each area may have its own assemblage of pests that must be prevented from spreading to new locations where the pests do not currently exist. This includes travel between lower areas of the Refuge which are more heavily infested with invasive species to higher elevation sites. If items cannot be cleaned, they should be left off the refuge or discarded.

2) Keep field vehicles clean. Clean field gear can easily be compromised by using a dirty truck. The inside of field vehicles should be vacuumed and pickup truck beds swept out regularly and especially if used off road in areas outside the refuge or at other refuges.

When cleaning vehicles it is important to pay particular attention to seats, floors, dashboards, door jambs, tires (especially treads) and the undercarriage. All mud should be hosed off to avoid transporting weed seeds and Ceratocystis fungus spores.

3) Become acquainted with invasive species in Hawaii and their varying status regarding particular localities. Learn which invasive species occur in the areas where you live, work or visit and which of these species to be on the alert for. Take inventory of weeds that occur along trails and byways and pay attention to any unusual changes or additions to these. There is plenty of literature on the identification of weedy plants that will provide current status throughout the various islands.

4) Avoid carrying pests and pathogens from an infested part of the refuge to pristine areas. If routes of transit go through invasive weed belts, be conscious of the potential for spread. A safeguard could be having a brush on hand to clean shoe soles at the boundary of https://cms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/rod/ such a site. This is especially a concern when performing priority weed work where there is a large seed bank.

Also pay close attention to chain saws and other tools used to cut ʻŌhi‛a. To avoid transferring the Ceratocystis fungus from tree to tree, tools need to be cleaned between each ʻŌhi‛a that is cut. Tools should be cleaned with 70% rubbing alcohol or 10% bleach solution. All saw dust and debris should be visibly removed from the tools. *No live ʻŌhi‛a is to be cut down—fallen trees may be cleared to maintain access.

5) Prepare a checklist of items to be inspected before any extended field operations or camping trips. Note all materials that will accompany staff during these operations. On prep day, an assigned person should inspect the supplies, concentrating on those most susceptible in aiding accidental introductions. A quick “once-over” should be performed the morning of departure as the gear is loaded into the vehicle. Items having the potential for carrying unwanted plants and insects into the field include: chain saws, clippers/shears, gloves, shovels, rakes, helicopter sling nets, wood, building materials, fencing material and equipment, bottoms of plastic buckets, cardboard boxes (beware of roaches and ants!), any open food or water containers, tool bags, backpacks, raingear and tents. Methods for cleaning such articles range from using brushes, tweezers, bleached rags, or insecticides for seeds and/or insects or a spray bottle of rubbing alcohol or 10% bleach solution for Ceratocystis spores. Have these items on hand. Upon the worst case scenario of finding contaminated supplies, the item should be disposed of off the refuge.

6) Keep localized infestations from becoming established on other islands, refuges or preserves. When working in a different area, refuge or even another island, be very careful to avoid spreading pests that your destination may not have, and vice versa, by inspecting and cleaning gear before each departure. It is also important to have completely different gear foreach island or location. At Hakalau Forest NWR, it is mandatory for staff, researchers and contractors to have dedicated raingear, boots and packs.

7) Pack out your trash and unused foodstuffs. Avoid taking any fruit (in your food or digestive tract) whose seeds have strong potential to naturalize, i.e. guava, cherry tomatoes, chili peppers, berries, etc. It is important not to eat fruits of invasive plant species for several days before your visit, if there is a chance of passing seeds during your visit. Also be aware of the possibility of spreading unseen insects, bacteria, blights, and other plant pathogens. Organic trash (orange and banana skins, apple or pear cores, peach and avocado pits, etc.) should be treated as other garbage and packed out the way it was packed into the area and disposed of properly.

8) Keep helicopter landing zones and camps free of significant weed species.

Helicopters can easily transport invasive species among landing zones. It is important to keep the skids of the helicopter clean using well-managed landing zones. Potentially threatening weed species at landing sites should be cut back periodically or completely eradicated. For over flights a clean landing site is all that is necessary. For long line operations, a solid surface (concrete, pavement) landing pad is best, but a large, well-anchored tarp will work. For point-to-point flights, especially those landing at pristine sites, keep weeds and arthropods from getting on to skids, passengers, and cargo by using a clean solid landing surface.

9) No Firewood – Firewood can carry harmful invasive beetle larvae and other pests.

Camp fires are not allowed and no firewood or untreated wood products should be carried into the refuge.

10) Follow up - Clean up. Camp sites have high potential for weed and insect species introductions. During each visit to remote areas time should be set aside for control efforts to eliminate any invasive species observed, along with any trash, waste material, and items no longer needed on the project site.

For individuals who work in the field:

a. Before going into the field, visually inspect and clean your clothes, boots, pack, radio harness, tools and other personal gear and equipment, for seeds, soil, plant parts, insects, and other debris. A small brush is handy for cleaning boots, equipment and gear. Soles of shoes should be sanitized using a solution of >70% isopropyl alcohol or a freshly mixed 10% bleach solution.

b. Immediately after returning from the field, visually inspect and clean your clothes, boots, pack, radio harness, tools and other personnel gear and equipment, for seeds, soil, plant parts, insects, and other debris. Soles of shoes should be sanitized using a solution of >70% isopropyl alcohol or a freshly mixed 10% bleach solution.

Scheduling an inspection for a Refuge approved project:

Requests for inspections should be made via email to Donna_L_Ball@fws.gov, the contracting officer representative (COR). Requests must be made a minimum of 3 business days prior to inspection and must take place at the contractorʻs place of business, or a place controlled by the contractor (no inspections at the refuge gate or along any public road). We may be unable to accommodate requests made on shorter notice.

mailto:Donna_L_Ball@fws.gov