SOW.doc

WFM-0900-6-HFR-715-0913-01 FIRE ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION (BTRFLY SVY)

Statement of Work - 2010 and 2011 Butterfly Surveys – Washburn Ranger District

July 15, 2009

WORK STATEMENT

The Washburn Ranger District has need of a proficient Lepidopterist who is familiar with visual identification of butterfly species. This contractor will survey designated sites for evidence of chryxus arctic and tawny crescent spot butterflies and will record observations of all butterfly species encountered with special emphasis on the primary target (chryxus arctic and tawny crescent spot) as well as Henry’s elfin butterflies.

CONTRACT TIME, COMPENSATION

This is a two year contract for 2010 and 2011. Survey activity for the chryxus arctic is to be conducted during the active flight period– typically late May – early June, depending on yearly weather. Survey activity for the tawny crescent spot is to be conducted during the active flight period– typically early June – late June, depending on yearly weather. Surveys are to be conducted between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM each day. Survey activity will need to be concluded by June 30, 2011 and a final report describing surveys conducted and findings must be submitted by July 30 of 2011 with a final version (if necessary, see Inspection and Acceptance, below) completed by September 30, 2011. A preliminary report describing the findings of the 2010 surveys must be submitted by July 30 of 2010 with a final version (if necessary, see Inspection and Acceptance, below) completed by September 30 2010.

Surveyor will be paid in a lump sum payment when project is completed and accepted by government. Partial payment can be made at the end of the 2010 survey season, based on completed bid items and submission of a preliminary report.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION, REQUIREMENTS

Surveys consist of a controlled intuitive meander in which the surveyor searches the most likely locations in the highest quality habitat of the designated areas. All butterfly species encountered are recorded and target species are captured for positive identification. Collection of voucher specimens will be at the discretion of the surveyor, based on number of individuals present, certainty of identification, and whether the target species has previously been recorded at that location. Work will be done under a wide variety of field conditions, including rough terrain and long distance foot travel.

INSPECTION, ACCEPTANCE

The contractor will keep the district Biologist informed of progress and survey results. Written reports (on a prepared form) and electronic GPS track files will be required for each stand visited. A preliminary and final report will be prepared on an annual basis for all stands surveyed and will include information on methodology, stands surveyed, habitat suitability, host plant presence/abundance, and butterfly species found. The format of these reports is at the discretion of the vendor, as long as the required information listed above is included. Multiple bid items may be combined in a single annual report, but at least one report is required annually. These reports will be submitted to the Washburn District Wildlife Biologist by July 30 of each year. The Government will then have the opportunity to review the report and return it to the vendor within 30 days for clarifications. The vendor will then have an additional 30 days to make any necessary changes or provide clarifications. A rare animal report form (original copy supplied by the government) will be completed for all sites in which chryxus arctic or tawny crescent spot butterflies are found. Acceptability of work will be based on completion of work area and submission of reports.

GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY

None. All survey equipment, such as nets, collection receptacles, binoculars and field gear are to be supplied by the contractor.

MEASUREMENT AND PAYMENT

Contractor will be reimbursed for work accomplished, at the awarded rate per bid unit. An original invoice will be submitted to the Contracting Officer. The Forest Service Biologist or Contracting Officer’s Representative signature on the invoice indicates satisfactory completion and acceptance of work.

Butterfly Survey Protocol Equipment (to be furnished by contractor):

· 12-18 inch aerial nets for collecting butterflies

· Binoculars, compass, GPS unit,

· Data forms (original copy supplied by govt.), and survey maps.

· Camera.

Surveys will not be attempted unless weather conditions are suitable: generally sunny skies with no precipitation, and light winds. Surveys should not be done if wind velocity exceeds 10 mph or low temperatures preclude butterfly activity. Surveys will be conducted in the late morning and afternoon.

Surveys consist of a controlled intuitive meander in which the surveyor searches the most likely locations in the highest quality habitat of the designated areas. All butterfly species encountered are recorded and target species are captured for positive identification. Collection of voucher specimens will be at the discretion of the surveyor, based on number of individuals present, certainty of identification, and whether the target species has previously been recorded at that location.

Fill out survey form for each stand surveyed, including all data requested. All butterfly species identified are to be recorded for each site. The stand walk-through routes must be recorded as track files using a GPS receiver and locations of target species will be recorded with GPS waypoints. This data will be submitted in electronic format to the Washburn District Office along with completed survey forms and reports. An assessment of the suitability of the stand as habitat for the target species is an essential part of the survey.

While not required, documentation of sharp-tailed grouse, Connecticut warbler, LeConte’s sparrow, and non-native invasive plants such as spotted knapweed, and leafy spurge would be appreciated.

CHEQUAMEGON-NICOLET NATIONAL FOREST

WASHBURN RANGER DISTRICT

BAYFIELD COUNTY

BUTTERFLY SURVEYS

Item Species DESCRIPTION

QTY

UNIT $

TOTAL $

1 Chryxus North maps 1-6 & 12 23 Sites, 360 ac

2 Tawny North maps 1-6 & 12 23 Sites, 360 ac

3 Chryxus North maps 7-11 38 Sites, 750 ac

4 Tawny North maps 7-11 38 Sites, 750 ac

5 Chryxus South maps 1-4 10 Sites, 118 ac

6 Tawny South maps 1-4 10 Sites, 118 ac

Total

Chryxus Arctic surveys to be conducted during the flight period of late May – early June.

Tawny Crescent Spot surveys to be conducted during the flight period in June.

Basis of award: contracts will be awarded by item based on past performance, experience and price.

Technical questions can be referred to Scott Posner, 715-373-2667 X240