AG-55N9-S-16-0005.pdf

SOLICITATION, OFFER AND AWARD 1.THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED ORDER RATING PAGE OF

UNDER DPAS (15 CFR 700) 1 67 PAGES

2. CONTRACT NUMBER 3. SOLICITATION NUMBER 4. TYPE OF SOLICITATION 5. DATE ISSUED 6. REQUISITION/PURCHASE

AG-55N9-S-16-0005

SEALED BID (IFB)

MARCH 3, 2016 NUMBER 788438

NEGOTIATED (RFP)

7. ISSUED BY CODE 8. ADDRESS OFFER TO (If other than Item 7)

USDA FOREST SERVICE

MONONGAHELA NATIONAL FOREST

1079 MAIN ST E

WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, WV 24986

NOTE: In sealed bid solicitations "offer" and "offeror" mean "bid" and "bidder".

SOLICITATION

9. Sealed offers in original and 0 copies for furnishing the supplies or services in the Schedule will be received at the place specified in Item 8, or if handcarried, in the depository located in RECEPTION AREA until 4:00 pm local time APRIL 4, 2016 (Hour) (Date) CAUTION - LATE Submissions, Modifications, and Withdrawals: See Section L, Provision No. 52.214-7 or 52.215-1. All offers are subject to all terms and conditions contained in this solicitation.

10. FOR

INFORMATION

A. NAME

B. TELEPHONE NO. (NO COLLECT

CALLS)Area Code/Number/Extension C. E-MAIL ADDRESS

CALL: CARRIE EDWARDS 304-536-2144 CLEDWARDS@FS.FED.US

11. TABLE OF CONTENTS

(X) SEC. DESCRIPTION PAGE(S) (X) SEC. DESCRIPTION PAGE(S)

PART I - THE SCHEDULE PART II - CONTRACT CLAUSES

X A SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM 1-2 X I CONTRACT CLAUSES 47-54

X B SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS 3-16 PART III - LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND OTHER ATTACH.

X C DESCRIPTION/SPECS./WORK STATEMENT 17-27 X J LIST OF ATTACHMENTS 55

X D PACKAGING AND MARKING 28 PART IV - REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

X E

INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE 29-36 X

X

K REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS AND 56-61

X F DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE 37 OTHER STATEMENTS OF OFFERORS

X G CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA 38 X L INSTRS., CONDS., AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS 62-65

X H SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS 39-46 X M EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD 66-67

OFFER (Must be fully completed by offeror)

NOTE: Item 12 does not apply if the solicitation includes the provisions at 52.214-16, Minimum Bid Acceptance Period.

12. In compliance with the above, the undersigned agrees, if this offer is accepted within 60 calendar days (60 calendar days unless a different period is inserted by the offeror) from the date for receipt of offers specified above, to furnish any or all items upon which prices are offered at the price set opposite each item, delivered at the designated point(s), within the time specified in the schedule.

13. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT 10 CALENDAR DAYS 20 CALENDAR DAYS 30 CALENDAR DAYS CALENDAR DAYS (See Section I, Clause No. 52-232-8) % % % %

14. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS AMENDMENT NO. DATE AMENDMENT NO. DATE

(The offeror acknowledges receipt of amend-ments to the SOLICITATION for offerors and related documents numbered and dated):

15A.

NAME AND

ADDRESS

OF OFFEROR

CODE FACILITY 16. NAME AND TITLE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO SIGN

OFFER (Type or Print)

15B. TELEPHONE NO. (Include area code and extension)

15C. CHECK IF REMITTANCE ADDRESS

17. SIGNATURE

18. OFFER DATE

IS DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE - ENTER

SUCH ADDRESS IN SCHEDULE.

AWARD (To be completed by Government)

19. ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS NUMBERED 20. AMOUNT 21. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION

22. AUTHORITY FOR USING OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN

COMPETITION

23. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN ITEM

10 U.S.C. 2304 (c) ( ) 41 U.S.C. 253(c) ( ) (4 copies unless otherwise specified)

24. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 7) CODE 25. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

26. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print) 27. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 28. AWARD DATE

(Signature of Contracting Officer) IMPORTANT - Award will be made on this Form, or on Standard Form 26, or by other authorized official written notice.

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION STANDARD FORM 33 (REV.9-97)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.214(c)

Service RFP

NON-NATIVE INVASIVE PLANT CONTROL

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PART I—THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B--SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

SCHEDULE OF ITEMS

FS Unit SUMMARY: Please check which FS unit(s) you have bid on

Athens (A)

Marietta (M)

Ironton (I)

Pricing can be provided for individual work items within each Unit, can be provided for all work items within a specific Unit, or can be provided for all work items on all three Units. It is up to the Contractor to decide which work items they propose to bid on and which Units they propose to work in.

SEE FOLLOWING SECTION FOR AVAILABLE UNITS AND WORK ITEMS

Athens (A)

Item No.

Work Title Description

Unit Base

Year

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Mechanical Treatments Category

A 1.1

Grasses, Forbs, and Woody Shrubs – Mowing and Brushing of infested roadsides, early succession fields, and open fields using rotary mowers.

Examples of target species: Sericea lespedeza, multiflora rose, thistles, Japanese stiltgrass, Japanese knotweed, Phragmites, Johnson grass.

Acre

1.2

Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines – Mechanically cut down invasive trees and shrubs utilizing chainsaws, loppers, and large weed-eaters equipped with brush blades. Example of target species:

autumn olive, bush honeysuckle, Japanese barberry, privet, burning bush, barberry, mimosa, princess tree, wisteria.

1.3

Trees, Large Shrubs, and Woody Vines (continuous & dense) – Mechanically cut down invasive trees and large shrubs < 8” DBH using mastication heads (e.g. FECON) on rubber tracked skid-steer machines equipped with appropriate safety measures. Mastication heads will be used where other treatments are not practical. Examples of target species:

continuous, dense infestations of autumn olive, bush honeysuckle, privet, burning bush, wisteria.

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Mechanical and Herbicide Treatments Category

2.1

Trees and Large Shrubs – Cut stump application of herbicide (Selective and/or Non-selective Herbicide).

Treatments involve utilizing hand shears, loppers, and chain saws to sever stems and apply herbicides to stumps.

Examples of target species: bush honeysuckle, autumn olive, privet, princess tree, Amur corktree, mimosa, tree-of heaven (limited cases)

2.2

Trees and Large Shrubs - Basal spray application of herbicides (Selective and/or Non-selective). Treatments involve basal application of herbicides only. Example of target species: Olives, privets, tree-of-heaven, princess tree, mimosa, and other invasive trees and shrubs.

2.3

Trees and Large Shrubs – Hack-and-squirt application of herbicides (Selective and/or Non-selective). Treatments involve hack cuts into the connective tissues and herbicide application into the cuts. Treatments will occur in the growing season only. All targets > 2’ height/length shall be treated. Example of target species: tree-of-heaven, Amur corktree, princess tree, mimosa, autumn olive, etc.

2.4

Woody Vines – Cut stem application of herbicides (Selective and/or Non-selective). Treatments involve utilizing chainsaws, loppers, and hand shears to sever woody vines and spray the cut surface on the side that emerges from the soil. Examples of target species:

Oriental bittersweet, kudzu, wisteria, air potato, Japanese honeysuckle.

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Foliar Herbicide Treatments Category

3.1

Dense Open Land Non-Native Invasive Plants (NNIP) – (Selective and/or Non-selective Herbicide). Foliar applications utilizing boom sprayers with multiple nozzles and/or boom-less nozzles mounted to tractors, rubber tracked skid-steers, or UTVs. Infestation areas will be continuous in nature (e.g. old field covered with red fescue and lespedeza), and areas may be mowed prior to herbicide application. Examples of target species:

Sericea lespedeza, red fescue, Japanese stiltgrass, reed canarygrass, Chinese silvergrass, spotted knapweed, bush honeysuckle sprouts, autumn olive sprouts.

3.2

Sparse Open Land NNIP – (Selective and/ or Non-selective Herbicide). Direct spot application of foliar herbicides utilizing hand-held/ backpack sprayers, or UTV mounted sprayers with a single nozzle application. Infestations will not be continuous within the treatment area.

Examples of target species: Sericea lespedeza, Japanese stiltgrass, autumn olive, Chinese silvergrass, reed canarygrass, Japanese honeysuckle, Japanese knotweed.

3.3

Roadside/Trailside NNIP – (Selective and/or Non- selective Herbicide). Direct spot application of foliar herbicides utilizing truck/UTV-mounted sprayers, and/or backpack sprayers along designated roads and trails. May include treatments along ORV-only trails, necessitating use of UTV/backpack sprayers only. Examples of target species: Sericea lespedeza, multiflora rose, Japanese stiltgrass, autumn olive, Japanese knotweed.

3.4

Interior Forest NNIP – (Selective and/or Non-selective Herbicide). Direct spot application of foliar herbicides utilizing hand-held or backpacks where there is no road or trail access. Examples of target species: bush honeysuckles, kudzu, Japanese stiltgrass, garlic mustard, multiflora rose.

Marietta (M)

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

M

Grasses, Forbs, and Woody Shrubs – Mowing and Brushing of infested roadsides, early succession fields, and open fields using rotary mowers.

Examples of target species: Sericea lespedeza, multiflora rose, thistles, Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines – Mechanically cut down invasive trees and shrubs utilizing chainsaws, loppers, and large weed-eaters equipped with brush blades. Example of target species:

autumn olive, bush honeysuckle, Japanese

Trees, Large Shrubs, and Woody Vines (continuous & dense) – Mechanically cut down invasive trees and large shrubs < 8” DBH using mastication heads (e.g. FECON) on rubber tracked skid-steer machines equipped with appropriate safety measures. Mastication heads will be used where other treatments are not practical. Examples of target species:

continuous, dense infestations of

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Trees and Large Shrubs – Cut stump application of herbicide (Selective and/or Non-selective Herbicide).

Treatments involve utilizing hand shears, loppers, and chain saws to sever stems and apply herbicides to stumps.

Examples of target species: bush honeysuckle, autumn olive, privet, Trees and Large Shrubs - Basal spray application of herbicides (Selective and/or Non-selective). Treatments involve basal application of herbicides only. Example of target species: Olives, privets, tree-of-heaven, princess tree, Trees and Large Shrubs – Hack-and-squirt application of herbicides (Selective and/or Non-selective). Treatments involve hack cuts into the connective tissues and herbicide application into the cuts. Treatments will occur in the growing season only. All targets > 2’ height/length shall be treated. Example of target species: tree-of-heaven, Amur

Woody Vines – Cut stem application of herbicides (Selective and/or Non-selective). Treatments involve utilizing chainsaws, loppers, and hand shears to sever woody vines and spray the cut surface on the side that emerges from the soil. Examples of target species:

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Dense Open Land Non-Native Invasive Plants (NNIP) – (Selective and/or Non-selective Herbicide). Foliar applications utilizing boom sprayers with multiple nozzles and/or boom-less nozzles mounted to tractors, rubber tracked skid-steers, or UTVs. Infestation areas will be continuous in nature (e.g. old field covered with red fescue and lespedeza), and areas may be mowed prior to herbicide application. Examples of target species:

Sericea lespedeza, red fescue, Japanese stiltgrass, reed canarygrass, Chinese silvergrass, Sparse Open Land NNIP – (Selective and/ or Non-selective Herbicide). Direct spot application of foliar herbicides utilizing hand-held/ backpack sprayers, or UTV mounted sprayers with a single nozzle application. Infestations will not be continuous within the treatment area.

Examples of target species: Sericea lespedeza, Japanese stiltgrass, autumn olive, Roadside/Trailside NNIP – (Selective and/or Non- selective Herbicide). Direct spot application of foliar herbicides utilizing truck/UTV-mounted sprayers, and/or backpack sprayers along designated roads and trails. May include treatments along ORV-only trails, necessitating use of UTV/backpack sprayers only. Examples of target species: Sericea lespedeza, multiflora

Interior Forest NNIP – (Selective and/or Non-selective Herbicide). Direct spot application of foliar herbicides utilizing hand-held or backpacks where there is no road or trail access. Examples of target species: bush honeysuckles, Ironton (IR)

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

IR

Grasses, Forbs, and Woody Shrubs – Mowing and Brushing of infested roadsides, early succession fields, and open fields using rotary mowers.

Examples of target species: Sericea lespedeza, multiflora rose, thistles, Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines – Mechanically cut down invasive trees and shrubs utilizing chainsaws, loppers, and large weed-eaters equipped with brush blades. Example of target species:

autumn olive, bush honeysuckle, Japanese

Trees, Large Shrubs, and Woody Vines (continuous & dense) – Mechanically cut down invasive trees and large shrubs < 8” DBH using mastication heads (e.g. FECON) on rubber tracked skid-steer machines equipped with appropriate safety measures. Mastication heads will be used where other treatments are not practical. Examples of target species:

continuous, dense infestations of

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Trees and Large Shrubs – Cut stump application of herbicide (Selective and/or Non-selective Herbicide).

Treatments involve utilizing hand shears, loppers, and chain saws to sever stems and apply herbicides to stumps.

Examples of target species: bush honeysuckle, autumn olive, privet, Trees and Large Shrubs - Basal spray application of herbicides (Selective and/or Non-selective). Treatments involve basal application of herbicides only. Example of target species: Olives, privets, tree-of-heaven, princess tree, Trees and Large Shrubs – Hack-and-squirt application of herbicides (Selective and/or Non-selective). Treatments involve hack cuts into the connective tissues and herbicide application into the cuts. Treatments will occur in the growing season only. All targets > 2’ height/length shall be treated. Example of target species: tree-of-heaven, Amur

Woody Vines – Cut stem application of herbicides (Selective and/or Non-selective). Treatments involve utilizing chainsaws, loppers, and hand shears to sever woody vines and spray the cut surface on the side that emerges from the soil. Examples of target species:

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Option Year

Dense Open Land Non-Native Invasive Plants (NNIP) – (Selective and/or Non-selective Herbicide). Foliar applications utilizing boom sprayers with multiple nozzles and/or boom-less nozzles mounted to tractors, rubber tracked skid-steers, or UTVs. Infestation areas will be continuous in nature (e.g. old field covered with red fescue and lespedeza), and areas may be mowed prior to herbicide application. Examples of target species:

Sericea lespedeza, red fescue, Japanese stiltgrass, reed canarygrass, Chinese silvergrass, Sparse Open Land NNIP – (Selective and/ or Non-selective Herbicide). Direct spot application of foliar herbicides utilizing hand-held/ backpack sprayers, or UTV mounted sprayers with a single nozzle application. Infestations will not be continuous within the treatment area.

Examples of target species: Sericea lespedeza, Japanese stiltgrass, autumn olive, Roadside/Trailside NNIP – (Selective and/or Non- selective Herbicide). Direct spot application of foliar herbicides utilizing truck/UTV-mounted sprayers, and/or backpack sprayers along designated roads and trails. May include treatments along ORV-only trails, necessitating use of UTV/backpack sprayers only. Examples of target species: Sericea lespedeza, multiflora

Interior Forest NNIP – (Selective and/or Non-selective Herbicide). Direct spot application of foliar herbicides utilizing hand-held or backpacks where there is no road or trail access. Examples of target species: bush honeysuckles, Contractor Acceptance Statement: By signing the offer, the Contractor agrees to all terms, conditions, and provisions included in the solicitation and agrees to furnish any awarded items at the price set in the schedule unless otherwise excepted as follows: _______________________________________________________________.

AGAR 452.216-73 Minimum And Maximum Contract Amounts (FEB 1988)

During the period specified in FAR clause 52.216-18, ORDERING, the Government shall place orders totaling a minimum of $2,500, but not in excess of $1,000,000 for all contracts combined over the life of the contract.

WAYNE NATIONAL FOREST EXISTING AND FUTURE AGREEMENTS CLAUSE

The Wayne NF reserves the right to complete NNIS treatments on acreage separate from identified IDIQ contract acreage via existing and future agreements the Wayne NF enters into with other state, federal, and non-governmental organization (NGO) partners. Separate acreage that is slated to be treated via agreements will not be packaged within the IDIQ or in individual task orders within the IDIQ.

Additional Contractor Notes:

1. In order to be eligible for a contract award under this solicitation, you must be completely registered in the System for Award Management program (www.sam.gov) at the time of proposal evaluation. Registering in SAM is free.

If you do not have an “Active” profile or you do not submit the requested information according to the solicitation provisions, you will be considered non-responsive.

2. This solicitation will result in the award of a firm-fixed price Indefinite Delivery / Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. One or more awards may be made to the responsible Offeror(s) whose proposal(s) are determined to offer the best value to the Government, price and other evaluation factors considered. Task Orders for identified work will then be competed between the contractors receiving an IDIQ contract award from this solicitation.

3. The Government intends to evaluate proposals and award a contract(s) without further negotiations or discussion, unless clarification is required. Therefore, the Offeror’s initial proposal should contain the Offeror’s best terms from a price and technical standpoint. The Government reserves the right to enter into discussions later, if the Contracting Officer deems that it is in the interest of the Government to do so.

4. There is a pre-proposal meeting on Thursday, March 17, 2016 at 1:00 PM at the Supervisor’s Office of the

Wayne National Forest in Nelsonville, OH. The solicitation will be reviewed and questions will be answered at this time.

5. In order to make an offer for this project, you are required to complete and return the following:

a. OFFER: Standard Form 33 (Page 1) – Sections 13; 14; 15; 16; 17; 18

b. COST PROPOSAL: Section B (Pages 3-15) – Schedule of Items

c. REPRESENTATIONS & CERTIFICATIONS: Section K (Pages 56-61) – Representations, Certifications, and other Statements of Offerors or Respondents

d. TECHNICAL PROPOSAL: Section L (Pages 62-65) – Instructions for the Preparation of Technical and

Business Proposals Completed packages should be received by 4:00 PM on APRIL 4, 2016 at the following address:

US FOREST SERVICE

MONONGAHELA NATIONAL FOREST

ATTN: CARRIE EDWARDS

AG-55N9-S-16-0005

1079 MAIN ST E

WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, WV 24986

6. The pricing offered is considered by the Forest Service to be contractually binding unit ceiling pricing. If a contract is awarded, the Contractor is bound to this offered pricing as the maximum pricing that can be offered when a task order is solicited. When offering a task order proposal, the IDIQ Contractor can elect to offer less than the contractually established ceiling pricing; however, this reduction is only in effect for that specific task order solicitation / issued task order, and does not constitute a contractual change to the unit ceiling pricing. IDIQ contracts will not be awarded to Offeror(s) who do not propose reasonable initial (ceiling) pricing.

7. An IDIQ Contractor can only propose to those task order solicitations when line item pricing is contractually established.

http://www.sam.gov/

SECTION C--DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK

C.1. Introduction The Wayne National Forest (also referred to as “Forest” or “Wayne”) has a requirement to enter into a Performance Based Service Contract (PBSC) for control of nonnative invasive species (NNIP) of plants and selected “invasive-like” native plants using herbicide treatments.

C.2. Background The Wayne National Forest administers approximately 244,240 acres in southeastern Ohio. The Forest is composed of three separate geographic units contained within two Ranger Districts. The Athens Ranger District administers lands on both the Athens and Marietta Units, while the Ironton Ranger District administers all lands on the Ironton Unit. National Forest System (NFS) lands managed by the Wayne are found in parts of 12 counties which span the state 100 miles east to west and 100 miles north to south.

Private land parcels are scattered throughout the NFS boundaries, producing a highly dissected ownership pattern. Federal ownership within the proclamation boundaries varies across the forest. Ironton (35%) contains the most federal ownership, followed by Athens (28%), and Marietta (23%).

The primary objective is to eradicate, reduce, or contain invasive plant populations, thereby minimizing the threat to native plant communities, sensitive wildlife habitat, and then reducing the economic impact.

The projects would emphasize control activities on highly invasive nonnative plant species infestations.

To accomplish this objective the Forest Service uses an integrated pest management (IPM) approach for NNIP control activities as required by the Wayne National Forest Land Management Plan (Forest Plan):

http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/wayne/landmanagement/planning/?cid=fsm9_006005&width=full

Integrated management is also required by the Forest-wide Integrated Non-native and Invasive Environmental Assessment (EA). An electronic copy of the EA is available upon request.

Invasive control activities will be conducted along disturbance corridors such as roads, trails, timber harvest units, fescue fields and fence lines. In addition, treatments will be conducted as part of restoration projects to improve wildlife habitat and protect plant diversity in native grassland openings, early successional habitat areas, interior areas of the forest, and other unique native plant communities threatened by invasive plants. As the initial NNIP treatments are successful subsequent treatments would focus less on using off road vehicles and mechanized equipment to increasing amounts of spot spraying of herbicides by using backpack sprayers or other hand techniques.

C.3. Scope of Work The Contractor shall provide all expertise, labor, supervision, services, herbicides, carriers or adjuvants, herbicide dye, materials, equipment, tools, supplies, transportation, licenses, permits, worker personal protective equipment (PPE), and incidentals necessary to perform the required work, for which the desired outcome is in strict accordance with the standards of the contract. The PBSC- Statement of Work (SOW) shall consist of completing the ordered tasks to the Acceptable Quality Level (AQL) required in Section C.14.

The awarded contract shall constitute the entire agreement including all terms and conditions applicable to the contract.

C.4. General Project Description and General Herbicide Specifications C.4.1 General Project Description and Specifications http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/wayne/landmanagement/planning/?cid=fsm9_006005&width=full http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/wayne/landmanagement/planning/?cid=fsm9_006005&width=full

AG-64R4-S-15-0001

This is part of a forest-wide project to remove and control undesirable non-native invasive plant species (NNIP), including targeted woody trees/shrubs/vines, herbaceous flowering plants, grasses, and semi-woody vines on the Wayne National Forest. The treatment for various infestations of NNIP would depend on factors such as, species, location, accessibility, patch size, concentration of NNIP, distance to surface and ground water resources, surrounding vegetation, and exposure to public. NNIP plant treatments may include the use of hand methods, machinery, and chemicals to eliminate NNIP when possible or at least appreciably reduce their presence in the treatment areas. Many inventories of NNIP plants throughout the Wayne have been completed, with supplemental inventories ongoing. The project takes an adaptive management strategy, which would result in changes in treatment strategies if Forest Service monitoring of treatment areas indicates that treatment objectives are not being met.

The Forest is approved for the following seven herbicides;

Selective Herbicides Non-Selective Herbicides Clopyralid Glyphosate Metsulfuron-methyl Imazapic Sethoxydim Imazapyr Triclopyr

Herbicide selection is dependent on the NNIP plants targeted for control treatment, surrounding vegetation, distance to ground and surface water, soil type, and other non-target resources that may be impacted by herbicide applications.

The herbicide to be used for chemical treatment, the application method and the desired application rate and will be identified in the task order.

The Contractor shall provide all expertise, labor, supervision, services, herbicides, carriers or adjuvants, materials, equipment, tools, supplies, transportation, licenses, permits, worker personal protective equipment (PPE), and incidentals necessary to perform the required work, for which the desired outcome is in strict accordance with the standards in the contract. The Contractor shall perform and accomplish the work in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and ordinances.

C.4.2 General Herbicide Specifications The following specifications provides criteria pertaining to herbicide application and NNIP treatment where work would occur under this contract according to FS policy, the Wayne Forest Plan and project specific design criteria. Herbicide choice is limited at this time to the approved herbicides listed above.

Additional herbicide choices may become available during the length of the IDIQ contract period pending NEPA process review and subsequent approval.

Applicators would use typical herbicide concentrations according to all EPA approved manufacturer herbicide directions. The Contractor will mix herbicides in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions and any applicable laws or regulations. Contractors, as well as all subcontractors, must have a valid Ohio commercial pesticide applicators license. Non-certified applicators and employees can perform work on-site when the certified supervisor is present during all times of the treatment in direct voice communication by telephone or radio with the certified supervisor.

The Contractor is responsible for the cleanup of any spills and will notify the COR immediately of any spills. The contractor must have herbicide labels and copies of material safety data sheets (MSDS) of chemicals used on site. The contractor must provide copies or notification by telephone or email of herbicide labels and MSDS of chemicals to the COR prior to the start of work.

Application operations shall be conducted as indicated on the herbicide label, including approved concentrations, rates/acre, and environmental conditions. Only chemicals for aquatic use in or adjacent to streams shall be used whenever directed or adjacent to waterways and wetlands such as the aquatic formulation of glyphosate (Rodeo ® or equivalent product).

This contract does not allow any indiscriminate broadcast applications or aerial spraying. Vehicle or UTV/OHV mounted sprayers may be utilized to apply herbicides in targeted areas. Targeted areas shall include, but are not limited to, designated old fields, native grassland openings, and along roads. Other spot spraying, typically involves the use of backpack sprayers or other hand techniques, and along designated motorized trails where UTV/OHV mounted sprayers is also permissible.

Except for selected areas of dense infestations of NNIP where herbicide use could occur throughout the year or areas, foliar application will most likely occur when native plants are dormant and by spot-spraying of target species. For other herbicide application during the growing season, the contract will require the use of selective herbicides or a selective method of application to reduce effects to the surrounding non-target vegetation. Other work may involve NNIP control of woody shrubs, trees, and woody vines by using a combination of herbicide treatment and mowing or cutting.

In instances where public contact with herbicide is possible, contractor will place caution signs at appropriate intervals around the spray application perimeter per label directions. Where necessary per label directions, caution signs may include a temporary closure of treatment areas. Typical closures include campgrounds, trails, trail heads, day-use areas and administrative sites.

Foliar herbicide application will occur mainly after full leaf expansion and applicators will apply herbicides in a systematic fashion to provide coverage to the entire NNIP infestation. Contractor shall apply foliar spray in such a manner to thoroughly wet foliage, but not to the point of runoff to avoid harm or mortality to desirable non-target plant species. The use of adjuvants is recommended to increase herbicide adhesion and cuticle breakdown on target foliage.

Contractor will conduct treatments to at least 95% of the specified project area(s) of the target NNIP infestation(s). Contractor will conduct treatments at a sufficient interval and concentration to meet or exceed the kill rate ranging from 85-90% for target NNIP infestations, and with no more than 10-15% mortality to nearby or interspersed desirable non-target native plant species because of inadvertent treatment or overspray of herbicides (refer to Quality Assurance Plan).

The Contractor shall progressively accomplish the work at a rate that will result in completion of the contract within the time specified as determined by the final accepted work schedule.

Forest Service COR or Contract Inspectors may conduct visual inspection of NNIP treatment sites to check progress on contract requirements. The COR may conduct random inspections and sampling to verify acceptable kill rates to target NNIP infestations and mortality to non-target desirable native plants.

At the discretion of the COR, the Forest Service will accept work based on visual inspection, to confirm kill rates to both target NNIP species and non- target native plant species (refer to Inspection and Acceptance).

All herbicide applicator staff must be able to identify target NNIP plant species in the field, including during dormant seasons, to a sufficient degree without exceeding the maximum acceptable levels of mortality to desirable non-target native species and to meet minimum kill rates to target NNIP infestations (refer to Quality Assurance Plan). In certain cases, NNIP populations may be flagged on the ground by Forest Service personnel.

C.4.3 Recordkeeping The Contractor will maintain an accurate daily log record of herbicide used in each area (see next section for the required elements). Other minimum record requirements include copies of hazardous material handling certificates, copies of material safety data sheets (MSDS) of chemicals used, and the location of the waste site and/or use destination locations.

C.4.4 Daily Logs/Diary Contractor will maintain an accurate daily treatment log of work activities and chemicals applied in treatment areas, with a copy made available to the COR prior to billing request. At a minimum, the Contractor shall provide to the COR, a copy of the daily treatment log no later than submission of the final invoice. When invoicing for partial work payments, the Contractor shall provide information from the daily diary regarding the herbicide treatments done for the relevant specific contract line items. The daily log must record the Contract Line Item, target NNIP species’, chemical used (product name), quantity of herbicide (volume applied & unit of measure per each target NNIP species’ (including product, adjuvant, and carrier/dilutant), application rate (active ingredient applied & unit of measure or percent solution), and adjuvant used (product name & rate applied, if any). The log will record weather information consisting of wind velocity (MPH), wind direction, air temperature (F), condition (cloud cover), and precipitation (inches). Other log requirements includes date, time of day (start time and stop time), treatment location, approximate acres treated, hours to complete task, type of application (method/technique), name of licensed commercial applicator, other licensed applicators and non- certified applicators, type of equipment used, plus optional information such as any other miscellaneous notes or observations. Treatment extent can be noted on maps supplied with each task order. Map notation of progress is especially useful if multiple days are needed to carry out treatments.

C.4.5 Equipment Cleanliness and Safety Measures Prior to starting work, the Contractor must clean all equipment used in NNIP control activities before entering the treatment areas. Project COR will inspect equipment on-site and may require further cleaning before moving to another treatment area as needed. The Wayne NF requests that at least 48 hours of advance notice is given for initial equipment inspection requests. Equipment that leaves the tasked area must be clean and weed free prior to re-entry. Contractor shall maintain Forest Service approved spark arresting device on any piece of equipment operated by an internal combustion motor. In addition, each piece of motorized equipment shall be equipped with a serviceable round-pointed shovel and an operational fire extinguisher of at least five-pound rating suitable for the equipment being used. All chainsaw operators will have a serviceable round-pointed shovel and a one-pound multipurpose fire extinguisher readily available.

C.5 Licensing and Certification The Contractor and/or whoever will supervise the herbicide treatment must possess a current Ohio commercial pesticide applicators license (Core, Category 3A: Aquatic, Category 4A: General Forest Pest, Category 5: Industrial Vegetation) at the time of relevant herbicide treatments.

The contract may incur some work requirements in category 3A, 4A, and 5 over the length of the contract period. Category 4A is applicable across the forest, except in cases where contracted work occurs directly adjacent to wetlands, streams, ponds, and other aquatic water bodies. Category 3A shall be used in instances where contracted, terrestrial NNIP adjacent to water bodies is to be controlled. Category 5 can be used for, but is limited to, spraying along and within utility corridors. Contractors holding some of, but not all of the listed certifications, may only conduct work applicable to their license category.

The Contractor shall ensure that there is either an Ohio pesticide licensed applicator on-site at all times of treatment or has direct voice communication by telephone or radio with the certified supervisor.

C.6 Task Order Issuance Each task order will be awarded based on best value, to include price, past performance and a technical submission. The technical submission will include a draft Work Plan and Schedule. The draft Work Plan and Schedule should include a start date, production rate, completion date, labor, and equipment list. The Contractor shall demonstrate the ability to complete all tasks for completion of the work required by this Contract.

If issued the task order, the Contractor will then submit a final site-specific Work Plan and Schedule for approval by the COR. The approved Work Plan and Schedule will indicate how the Contractor intends to meet the required Acceptable Quality Level (AQL) values, as referenced in the Quality Assurance Plan, as well as the contract specifications. The Work Schedule will provide dates of work for each Contract Line Item Number (CLIN) addressed in the contract, to include completion of all work before the required final date specified. The Contractor shall inform the COR of completion of each contract line item. The Work Plan for the awarded contract shall include any changes in values or proposed chemicals differing from the initial Work Plan, and the Contractor will inform the COR of any relevant changes to the technical specifications when performing work under the task order.

C.7 Inspections The Contractor may set up the Work Plan and Schedule to include interim inspections; however, interim inspections will only be done upon completion of at least one line item (CLIN). The Contractor shall complete the CLIN work according to the approved Work Schedule then request an inspection by the COR. Contractors are reminded that some work, such as herbicide application, cannot be immediately inspected, because an appropriate time interval must pass before determining whether the AQL has been met.

C.8 Invoicing Invoicing is tied to successful inspection of work. The Contractor may only invoice after the COR has inspected the line item(s) work, and the work is determined to have met the AQL. This applies to both interim and final payments.

C.8.1 Performance Based Service Contracting (PBSC) Incentives/Disincentives An Incentive percentage (bonus) of 5% of the contracted price shall be added to all task orders using herbicide that achieve 100% control (visible death) or 100% top-kill to targeted NNIS within the contracted area. Top-kill, in this case, means visible severing of all targeted stems and visible herbicide applications on all severed stems that originate from the soil. Treatments using control as a metric include all foliar applications (3.1 – 3.4), basal bark (2.2), and hack-and-squirt treatments (2.3). Treatments using control as a metric include all cut stump (2.1) and cut surface (2.4) herbicide treatments.

An Incentive percentage (bonus) of 3% of the contracted price shall be added to all task orders using mechanical removal that result in 100% top-kill of targeted NNIS within the contracted area. Top-kill, in this case, means visible mowing/cutting/severing of targeted NNIS vegetation. Treatments included under mechanical removal include mowing/brushing (1.1), cut stump/cut surface (1.2) and FECON (1.3).

Disincentive percentages (deduction from awarded price) will not be used as a penalty within this IDIQ contract. Any contract work that does not meet the minimum Quality Standards or AQL’s on the final inspection will be re-worked at the contractor’s expense. Failure to complete work to minimum Quality Standards/AQL’s in essence, serves as a disincentive, because it requires contractors to travel back to contract areas and complete work to acceptable levels. See Quality Assurance Plan for details on work item-specific Quality Standards and AQL’s.

C.9 Safety Plan The Contractor will provide a written safety plan that demonstrates how the contractor will ensure a safe work environment for themselves, their employees and the public at large. The safety plan should include: 1) a chemical spill plan documenting internal procedures, in the event of a pesticide spill on- site or in transport, 2) documentation to substantiate that the Contractor has an ongoing safety training program, 3) documentation regarding any Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) actions/citations issued against the Contractor within the previous three (3) years, to include follow-up measures or remedies taken by the Contractor.

The same safety plan information is required of subcontractors.

C.10 UTV Use Wet weather conditions may preclude the use of vehicles, utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) or off-highway vehicles (OHVs) in off road areas along trails, fields, or utility corridors, for indefinite periods during the contract period. In limited instances, the entirety of the contract area may be unsuitable for vehicle/UTV/OHV travel. The COR will determine those conditions or locations that warrant cessation of vehicle/UTV/OHV use. Furthermore, the COR will determine if cessation of vehicle/UTV/ORV use has significantly impacted the contract completion period. If warranted, the COR will make recommendations to the CO on the granting of contract extensions resulting from wet weather impacting equipment use. In addition, Forest Service roads must be in compliance with Ohio State motor vehicle regulations (OSMVR). The appropriate county permits must be obtained in those counties in which work will be performed.

All-terrain vehicles (ATV’s), lack roll over protection and rider restraint systems. As a result they are prohibited from use in contract spraying activities. Only UTV’s may be used for spraying activities, and must be equipped with a roll over protection system (ROPS), working seatbelts/restraints, operational throttle/brake pedals, and wheel-manipulated steering system. Furthermore, the UTV must be rated to hold and haul the mounted spraying equipment to be used.

Additional information regarding use of UTVs can be found at:

http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fsm8_045366.pdf

C.11 Technical Requirements and Specifications C.11.1.1 Mechanical Treatments, Grasses, Forbs, and Small Woody Shrubs Contractor shall utilize mowing equipment (bush hogs, rotary mowers, weed-eaters) to remove aboveground growth of targeted NNIP species. If needed, star-type or circular saw blades may be used on appropriate weed-eaters to control small woody shrubs. Mowing and brushing work will typically occur along roads and in targeted areas. Work will occur in specified areas and times. Work may be temporarily suspended by CO and COR if threats to forest soil and watershed resources are too high (e.g.

excessive, prolonged rain events).

C.11.1.2 Mechanical Treatments, Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines Contractor shall utilize appropriate equipment (chain saws, loppers, pruners, hand-saws, large weed-eaters) to remove aboveground growth of targeted NNIP species. Weed-eaters may be equipped with star-type or circular saw blades to assist in cutting work. Brushing work will occur in targeted areas, and woody brush shall be piled in identified locations once mechanical control is achieved. Work will occur in specified areas, and can occur throughout the year.

C.11.1.3 Mechanical Treatments, Trees, Large Shrubs, and Woody Vines (continuous and dense) Contractor shall utilize appropriate clearing equipment (rubber-tracked skid steers with FECON or similar mulching head) to mechanically remove and mulch targeted invasive trees, shrubs, and woody http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fsm8_045366.pdf vines. Targeted trees, shrubs, and woody vines will be up to 8” in diameter. Rubber-tracked equipment exerts minimal ground pressure, and is thus will limit damage to forest soil and watershed resources.

Mulching work may periodically need to be augmented by other mechanical means (chainsaws) to remove stubborn or isolated NNIP targets that cannot be reached by mulching equipment. Work shall occur in specified areas and times. Work may be temporarily suspended by CO and COR if threats to forest soil and watershed resources are too high (e.g. excessive, prolonged rain events).

C.11.1.4 Mechanical and Herbicide Treatments, Trees and Large Shrubs (cut stump) Contractor shall utilize appropriate equipment (chain saws, loppers, pruners, hand saws, large weed-eaters with circular saw blades) to cut aboveground growth of targeted NNIP species to a stump height of 1-2“ above ground level. Stump cuts must be clean and level to allow herbicide penetration. Because of this, the use of bush-hogs and other mowing equipment is not approved for cutting targeted plants. Once the cut is complete, contractor shall apply a label approved concentration of selective herbicide to the stump. On larger diameter targets, care must be taken to apply sufficient herbicide to the outer 1/3-1/2 of the cut surface. Examples of approved selective herbicides include triclopyr (Element 3a®, Garlon 3a®). Examples of approved non-selective herbicides include imazapyr (Arsenal®, Stalker®), and glyphosate (Roundup®, Razor Pro®, Accord XRT®).

Contractor shall apply herbicide in specified locations and times. Herbicide application must occur within two minutes of cut completion. Marking dye should also be used in the herbicide solution to aid in tracking of contract work. Removed vegetation may be piled in approved locations if directed in the award. Contractor will apply herbicide at a sufficient interval and concentration to meet or exceed the kill rate on target NNIP infestations and not exceed the maximum specified mortality to non-target plant species.

C.11.1.5 Mechanical and Herbicide Treatments, Trees and Large Shrubs (basal spray) Contractor shall utilize appropriate equipment (backpack sprayers, handheld sprayers) to apply oil-based basal herbicide on targeted trees and large shrubs. Basal spray refers to the basal bark herbicide application technique. Herbicide shall be applied at directed locations and times, and shall be applied in approved formulations and concentrations. Herbicide choices include oil based Triclopyr (e.g. Garlon 4 Ultra), and Imazapyr (Stalker) that mix with carrier oils to form the herbicide solution. Contractor shall utilize environmentally friendly (e.g. MSO) formulations of carrier oils and avoid the use of petroleum based carrier oils. Marking dye shall be added to herbicide solutions to aid in the tracking of contract work.

All herbicide applications must occur at specified locations and contract times. Basal spray work can occur either during the growing season, or during the latter portion of the dormant season. All herbicide applications completed during the dormant season must be completed only when ambient air temperatures are above freezing. In all cases contractor will apply herbicide at a sufficient interval and concentration to meet or exceed the kill rate on target NNIP infestations and not exceed the maximum specified mortality to non-target plant species.

C.11.1.6 Mechanical and Herbicide Treatments, Trees and Large Shrubs (hack and squirt) Contractor shall utilize appropriate equipment (axes, hatchets) to cut a series of hacks around the diameter of the target tree or shrub. Hacks will slope inward and down, shall sever the nutrient and water transport tissues, and shall extend into at least the first two growth rings. Spacing between hacks should be no more than 1-2 inches. All targeted species > 2 feet length/height shall be treated. Within two minutes, all hacks must be sprayed with an approved herbicide at a label appropriate concentration.

Herbicide will then translocate into the root system and control the NNIP target. Examples of approved herbicides include selective (triclopyr (Element 3a®, Garlon 3a®)), and non-selective (imazapyr

(Arsenal®, Stalker®)). Targeted species include, but are not limited to, tree-of-heaven, princess tree, and autumn olive.

Contractor will apply herbicide at a sufficient interval and concentration to meet or exceed the kill rate on target NNIP infestations and not exceed the maximum specified mortality to non-target plant species. All herbicide applications must occur at specified locations and within contract times.

C.11.1.7 Mechanical and Herbicide Treatments, Woody Vines (cut stem) Contractor shall utilize appropriate equipment (chain saws, loppers, pruners, hand saws, large weed-eaters with circular saw blades) to sever aboveground growth of targeted NNI vine species at a height no more than 1’ above ground level. Stem cuts must be clean and level to allow herbicide penetration.

Because of this, the use of bush-hogs and other mowing equipment is not approved for cutting targeted vines. Once the cut is complete, contractor shall apply a label approved concentration of selective herbicide to the cut surface that occurs on the portion of the vine emerging from the ground. The entire surface must be sprayed with an approved selective herbicide at label approved concentrations. The cut stem application technique, in essence, will be functionally the same as the cut stump treatment, but on woody vines instead of trees and large shrubs. . Examples of approved herbicides include selective (triclopyr (Element 3a®, Garlon 3a®)), and non-selective (imazapyr (Arsenal®, Stalker®)), (glyphosate (Roundup®, Razor Pro®, Accord XRT®).

Contractor will apply herbicide at a sufficient interval and concentration to meet or exceed the kill rate on target NNIP infestations and not exceed the maximum specified mortality to non-target plant species.

Overall treatment must be completed at contract specified locations and times. Herbicide application must occur within two minutes of cut completion. Marking dye should also be used in the herbicide solution to aid in tracking of contract work. Climbing vegetation above the cut (e.g. twining into tree canopy) will be allowed to remain hanging in place, unless specifically directed in the task order statement of work.

C.11.1.8 Foliar Herbicide Treatments, Dense Open Land NNIP Contractor shall apply foliar herbicide in specified locations and times. Herbicide may be selective or non-selective, depending on task order direction. Dense open land work consists of foliar herbicide application to dense, continuous infestations of herbaceous or semi-woody NNIP. Equipment will typically consist of UTV, tractor, skid-steer, or truck mounted sprayers with boom (multiple nozzles) or boom-less (single nozzle, wide fan pattern) nozzles. Typical species targeted in Dense Open Land spraying operations include red fescue, sericea lespedeza, Japanese stiltgrass, reed canarygrass, etc., but other species may be targeted.