SOLICITATION_AG-6395-S-16-0031._1.7.16pdf.pdf

Tree Removal Services for Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB) Eradication Efforts, Ohio.

This is a commercial solicitation for tree removal services in support of program strategies to eradicate the Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB) in Ohio. The appropriate NAICS code for this procurement is 561730 with a small business size standard of $7.5 million.

NOTES TO OFFERORS

1. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS. Offerors are advised to carefully review the proposal content and formatting requirements as specified in paragraph 1.2, Submission Requirements (page 12). Interested firms are encouraged but not required to participate in a Pre‐Proposal Conference. See provision 452.237‐71 “Pre‐ Bid/Pre‐Proposal Conference” for details (page 98).

2. PERFORMANCE BOND. Offerors are advised that this solicitation includes clause 52.228‐16 “Performance and Payment Bonds – Other Than Construction”. Within five (5) days of contract award, the contractor shall provide a performance bond (Standard Form 1418) in the penal amount of $500,000.00.

3. SUBMISSION. Offers shall be submitted by email to Lisa Draves at lisa.a.draves@aphis.usda.gov. Quotations must be received at or before the exact time specified in block 8 on the first page.

4. INQUIRIES. All questions must be submitted via email to Lisa Draves at lisa.a.draves@aphis.usda.gov no later than five (5) days prior to the solicitation closing date. Responses to questions will be posted on the Federal Business Opportunities website. Responses will not be provided to telephonic inquiries.

5. CONTRACT TYPE. This solicitation will result in a commercial Indefinite‐Delivery Indefinite‐Quantity contract.

Contract and task order minimums and maximums are addressed in the following clauses: See 52.216‐19, “Order Limitations” and 452.216‐73 “Minimum and Maximum Contract Amounts”. The line item quantities listed in the Pricing Schedule are estimates for evaluation purposes only and are not intended to convey either a minimum or maximum quantity that will be ordered by the Government. The unit price that will be paid for any line item will not be changed based on the quantity actually ordered by the Government. The ultimate contract price for any given ordering period will be the sum of the task orders issued during that period.

6. ISSUANCE OF TASK ORDERS. Work will be ordered through the issuance of individual task orders as the requirements of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are defined. Each task order will include the specific requirements related to the work covered by the task order, and delivery or performance requirements. Task Order prices will be in accordance with the fixed rates established in the Pricing Schedule. Orders may be issued orally, by facsimile, or by electronic commerce methods.

7. TAX EXEMPT. USDA is an agency of the Federal Government and is tax exempt (Tax ID# 41‐0696271).

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 Pricing Schedule

1.1 Background

1.2 Submission Requirements

1.3 Type of Contract

1.4 Definitions

2.0 Scope of Work

2.1 General Requirements

2.1.1 Contractor Requirements

2.1.2 Project Manager and Foremen

2.1.3 Identification

2.1.4 Use of Subcontractors

2.1.5 Equipment Specifications

2.1.5.1 Condition of Equipment

2.2 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Requirements and Concerns

2.2.1 Historic Landmark Preservation Act Requirements and Concerns

2.3 Public Relations

2.4 Questions about the ALB Program Received From the Public/Media

2.5 Working Hours

2.6 Telephone Communications

2.7 Damage Claims

2.8 Reporting Requirements:

2.8.1 Record Requirement:

2.9 Contractor Performance Requirements

3.0 Site Work/Work To Be Done

3.1 Permission to Remove Trees

3.1.1 Development of Removal Plan

3.1.1.1 Addenda to the Removal Plan

3.1.1.3 Investigating the Property Site

3.2 Removal Progression

3.3 Contractor Monitoring

3.4 Execution of Removals

3.5 Tree Removal

3.5.1 Grinding and Disposal

3.5.2 Full Host Removal

3.5.3 Emergency Tree Removal

3.6 Stump Removal/Treatment

3.6.1 Stump Removal/Herbicide Treatment

3.7 Site Restoration

3.7.1 Top Soil Replacement in Landscape Settings

3.7.2 Top Soil Replacement in Unmanaged Woodlots

3.7.4 Fencing Restoration – Pasture

3.8 Woody Debris Removal

3.9 Predetermined Collateral Trees and Collateral Damage

3.9 Safety Precautions

3.9.1 Traffic Disruption

3.9.2 Hazardous Materials/Chemical Spills

3.9.3 Protection of Utilities

3.9.4 Pesticide and Herbicide Application

3.9.5 Miscellaneous Safety Concerns

3.10 Performance Standards

4.0 Contract Administration

4.1 Payments

4.1.1 Acreage Calculations for Woodlots

4.1.2 Unusual and Differing Site Conditions

4.2 Submission of Invoices

4.3 Contracting Officers Representative

5.0 List of documents, exhibits, and other attachments

5.1 Tree DBH Measurement

7.0 CLAUSES

52.212‐4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS ‐‐ COMMERCIAL ITEMS (MAY 2015)

ADDENDUM TO 52.212‐4

52.212‐5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS ‐

‐ COMMERCIAL ITEMS (JAN 2016)

52.216‐18 ORDERING (OCT 1995)

52.216‐19 ORDER LIMITATIONS (OCT 1995)

52.216‐22 INDEFINITE QUANTITY (OCT 1995)

52.217‐8 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (NOV 1999)

52.217‐9 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT (MAR 2000)

52.228‐2 ADDITIONAL BOND SECURITY (OCT 1997)

52.228‐11 PLEDGES OF ASSETS (JAN 2012)

52.228‐14 IRREVOCABLE LETTER OF CREDIT (NOV 2014)

52.228‐16 PERFORMANCE AND PAYMENT BONDS ‐‐ OTHER THAN CONSTRUCTION (ALTERNATE I (JULY 2000))

52.246‐4 INSPECTION OF SERVICES ‐‐ FIXED‐PRICE (AUG 1996)

52.246‐20 WARRANTY OF SERVICES (MAY 2001)

452.215‐73 POSTAWARD CONFERENCE (NOV 1996)

452.216‐73 MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM CONTRACT AMOUNTS (FEB 1988)

452.228‐71 INSURANCE COVERAGE (ALT 1) (NOV 1996)

452.236‐73 ARCHAEOLOGICAL OR HISTORIC SITES (FEB 1988)

452.236‐74 CONTROL OF EROSION, SEDIMENTATION, AND POLLUTION (NOV 1996)

452.237‐74 KEY PERSONNEL (FEB 1988)

452.237‐75 RESTRICTIONS AGAINST DISCLOSURE (FEB 1988)

SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENT (SCR): APPLICABLE WAGE DECISION

52.252‐2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

52.203‐17 CONTRACTOR EMPLOYEE WHISTLEBLOWER RIGHTS AND REQUIREMENT TO INFORM EMPLOYEES

OF WHISTLEBLOWER RIGHTS (APR 2014)

52.232‐39 UNENFORCEABILITY OF UNAUTHORIZED OBLIGATIONS (JUN 2013)

52.232‐40 PROVIDING ACCELERATED PAYMENTS TO SMALL BUSINESS SUBCONTRACTORS (DEC 2013)

8.0 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

52.212‐1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS ‐‐ COMMERCIAL ITEMS (OCT 2015)

52.212‐2 EVALUATION ‐‐ COMMERCIAL ITEMS (OCT 2014)

52.212‐3 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS ‐‐ COMMERCIAL ITEMS (NOV 2015)

52.209‐5 CERTIFICATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (OCT 2015)

52.209‐7 INFORMATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (JUL 2013)

AGAR 452.209‐70 REPRESENTATION BY CORPORATIONS REGARDING AN UNPAID DELINQUENT TAX

LIABILITY OR A FELONY CONVICTION UNDER ANY FEDERAL LAW – FISCAL YEAR 2015

APPROPRIATIONS AND BEYOND (DEVIATION 2015‐01)

452.204‐70 INQUIRIES (FEB 1988)

452.219‐70 SIZE STANDARD AND NAICS CODE INFORMATION (SEP 2001)

452.237‐71 PRE‐BID/PRE‐PROPOSAL CONFERENCE (Feb 1988)

52.252‐1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

52.203‐11 CERTIFICATION AND DISCLOSURE REGARDING PAYMENTS TO INFLUENCE CERTAIN

FEDERALTRANSACTIONS (SEP 2007)

1.0 PRICING SCHEDULE

ITEM DESCRIPTION

EST

QTY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

BASE Date of Award through (6 months)

0001 Removal Plan 110 EA ___________ ___________

Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot (includes stump grinding or treatment and restoration) 0002 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 2.0" ‐ 4.9" DBH 200 EA ___________ ___________ 0003 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 5.0" ‐ 8.9" DHB 350 EA ___________ ___________ 0004 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 9.0”– 14.9” DBH 400 EA ___________ ___________ 0005 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 15.0” – 19.9” DBH 200 EA ___________ ___________ 0006 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 20.0” – 24.9” DBH 120 EA ___________ ___________ 0007 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 25.0” – 29.9” DBH 75 EA ___________ ___________ 0008 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 30.0” – 35.0” DBH 50 EA ___________ ___________ 0009 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 36.0” – 43.9” DBH 35 EA ___________ ___________ 0010 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 44.0” + DBH 10 EA ___________ ___________

Tree Removal ‐ Wood Lot (includes restoration)

0011 Tree Removal ‐ Wood Lot 45 ACRE ___________ ___________

Stump Grinding/Treatment ‐ Individual Stumps Only (includes restoration)

0012 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 2.0” –4.9” DBH 5 EA ___________ ___________

0013 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 5.0” – 8.9” DBH 5 EA ___________ ___________

0014 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 9.0”– 14.9” DBH 5 EA ___________ ___________

0015 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 15.0” – 19.9” DBH 1 EA ___________ ___________

0016 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 20.0” – 24.9” DBH 1 EA ___________ ___________

0017 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 25.0” – 29.9” DBH 1 EA ___________ ___________

0018 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 30.0” – 35.0” DBH 1 EA ___________ ___________

0019 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 36.0” – 43.9” DBH 1 EA ___________ ___________

0020 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 44.0” + DBH 1 EA ___________ ___________

0021 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot 30 ACRE ___________ ___________

0022 Herbicide Stump Treatment Application (per inch:

stump diameter) 20

IN

0023 Herbicide Stump Treatment Application 10 ACRE ___________ ___________

Miscellaneous

0024 Woody Debris Removal 150 CY ___________ ___________

0025 Fence Restoration ‐ Residential 200 LF ___________ ___________

0026 Fence Restoration ‐ Pasture 50 LF ___________ ___________

TOTAL ‐ BASE PERIOD (0001 ‐ 0026) ___________

EST

QTY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

OPTION 1 (Six months)

0027 Removal Plan 110 EA ___________ ___________

Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot (includes stump grinding or treatment and restoration)

0028 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 2.0" ‐ 4.9" DBH 200 EA ___________ ___________

0029 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 5.0" ‐ 8.9" DHB 350 EA ___________ ___________

0030 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 9.0”– 14.9” DBH 400 EA ___________ ___________

0031 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 15.0” – 19.9” DBH 200 EA ___________ ___________

0032 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 20.0” – 24.9” DBH 120 EA ___________ ___________

0033 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 25.0” – 29.9” DBH 75 EA ___________ ___________

0034 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 30.0” – 35.0” DBH 50 EA ___________ ___________

0035 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 36.0” – 43.9” DBH 35 EA ___________ ___________

0036 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 44.0” + DBH 10 EA ___________ ___________

Tree Removal ‐ Wood Lot (includes restoration)

0037 Tree Removal ‐ Wood Lot 45 ACRE ___________ ___________

Stump Grinding/Treatment ‐ Individual Stumps Only (includes restoration)

0038 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 2.0” –4.9” DBH 5 EA ___________ ___________

0039 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 5.0” – 8.9” DBH 5 EA ___________ ___________

0040 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 9.0”– 14.9” DBH 5 EA ___________ ___________

0041 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 15.0” – 19.9” DBH 1 EA ___________ ___________

0042 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 20.0” – 24.9” DBH 1 EA ___________ ___________

0043 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 25.0” – 29.9” DBH 1 EA ___________ ___________

0044 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 30.0” – 35.0” DBH 1 EA ___________ ___________

0045 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 36.0” – 43.9” DBH 1 EA ___________ ___________

0046 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 44.0” + DBH 1 EA ___________ ___________

0047 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot 30 ACRE ___________ ___________

0048 Herbicide Stump Treatment Application (per inch:

stump diameter) 20

IN

0049 Herbicide Stump Treatment Application 10 ACRE ___________ ___________

Miscellaneous

0050 Woody Debris Removal 150 CY ___________ ___________

0051 Fence Restoration ‐ Residential 200 LF ___________ ___________

0052 Fence Restoration ‐ Pasture 50 LF ___________ ___________

TOTAL ‐ OPTION 1 (0027 ‐ 0052) ___________

EST

QTY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

OPTION 2 (12 months)

0053 Removal Plan 110 EA ___________ ___________

Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot (includes stump grinding or treatment and restoration)

0054 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 2.0" ‐ 4.9" DBH 400 EA ___________ ___________

0055 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 5.0" ‐ 8.9" DHB 700 EA ___________ ___________

0056 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 9.0”– 14.9” DBH 800 EA ___________ ___________

0057 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 15.0” – 19.9” DBH 400 EA ___________ ___________

0058 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 20.0” – 24.9” DBH 240 EA ___________ ___________

0059 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 25.0” – 29.9” DBH 150 EA ___________ ___________

0060 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 30.0” – 35.0” DBH 100 EA ___________ ___________

0061 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 36.0” – 43.9” DBH 70 EA ___________ ___________

0062 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 44.0” + DBH 20 EA ___________ ___________

Tree Removal ‐ Wood Lot (includes restoration)

0063 Tree Removal ‐ Wood Lot 90 ACRE ___________ ___________

Stump Grinding/Treatment ‐ Individual Stumps Only (includes restoration)

0064 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 2.0” –4.9” DBH 10 EA ___________ ___________

0065 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 5.0” – 8.9” DBH 10 EA ___________ ___________

0066 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 9.0”– 14.9” DBH 10 EA ___________ ___________

0067 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 15.0” – 19.9” DBH 2 EA ___________ ___________

0068 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 20.0” – 24.9” DBH 2 EA ___________ ___________

0069 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 25.0” – 29.9” DBH 2 EA ___________ ___________

0070 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 30.0” – 35.0” DBH 2 EA ___________ ___________

0071 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 36.0” – 43.9” DBH 2 EA ___________ ___________

0072 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 44.0” + DBH 2 EA ___________ ___________

0073 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot 60 ACRE ___________ ___________

Herbicide Stump Treatment Application (per inch:

stump diameter) 40

IN

0075 Herbicide Stump Treatment Application 20 ACRE ___________ ___________

Miscellaneous

0076 Woody Debris Removal 300 CY ___________ ___________

0077 Fence Restoration – Residential 400 LF ___________ ___________

0078 Fence Restoration – Pasture 100 LF ___________ ___________

TOTAL ‐ OPTION 2 (0053 ‐ 0078) ___________

EST

QTY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

OPTION 3 (12 months)

0079 Removal Plan 110 EA ___________ ___________

Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot (includes sump grinding or treatment and restoration)

0080 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 2.0" ‐ 4.9" DBH 400 EA ___________ ___________

0081 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 5.0" ‐ 8.9" DHB 700 EA ___________ ___________

0082 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 9.0”– 14.9” DBH 800 EA ___________ ___________

0083 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 15.0” – 19.9” DBH 400 EA ___________ ___________

0084 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 20.0” – 24.9” DBH 240 EA ___________ ___________

0085 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 25.0” – 29.9” DBH 150 EA ___________ ___________

0086 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 30.0” – 35.0” DBH 100 EA ___________ ___________

0087 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 36.0” – 43.9” DBH 70 EA ___________ ___________

0088 Tree Removal ‐ Non Wood Lot: 44.0” + DBH 20 EA ___________ ___________

Tree Removal ‐ Wood Lot (includes restoration)

0089 Tree Removal ‐ Wood Lot 90 ACRE ___________ ___________

Stump Grinding/Treatment ‐ Individual Stumps Only (includes restoration)

0090 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 2.0” –4.9” DBH 10 EA ___________ ___________

0091 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 5.0” – 8.9” DBH 10 EA ___________ ___________

0092 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 9.0”– 14.9” DBH 10 EA ___________ ___________

0093 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 15.0” – 19.9” DBH 2 EA ___________ ___________

0094 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 20.0” – 24.9” DBH 2 EA ___________ ___________

0095 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 25.0” – 29.9” DBH 2 EA ___________ ___________

0096 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 30.0” – 35.0” DBH 2 EA ___________ ___________

0097 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 36.0” – 43.9” DBH 2 EA ___________ ___________

0098 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot: 44.0” + DBH 2 EA ___________ ___________

0099 Stump Grinding ‐ Wood Lot 60 ACRE ___________ ___________

Herbicide Stump Treatment Application (per inch:

stump diameter) 40

IN

0101 Herbicide Stump Treatment Application 20 ACRE ___________ ___________

Miscellaneous

0102 Woody Debris Removal 300 CY ___________ ___________

0103 Fence Restoration ‐ Residential 400 LF ___________ ___________

0104 Fence Restoration ‐ Pasture 100 LF ___________ ___________

TOTAL ‐ OPTION 3 (0079 ‐ 0104) ___________

TOTAL PRICE (BASE AND OPTIONS 1‐3) ___________

1.1 Background

The ALB was initially detected in the United States in 1996 in the Greenpoint section of Brooklyn, New York. ALB was introduced into the United States on solid wood packing material accompanying cargo shipments from Asia.

The beetle infestation in New York spread to Long Island (portions of Nassau and Suffolk counties), Queens County, New York County (Manhattan), and Richmond County (Staten Island). In 1998, a separate introduction of the beetle was discovered on trees in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. Beetles were also detected in two separate New Jersey locations. In April 2008, USDA successfully eradicated the ALB infestations from Illinois and from Hudson County, NJ. In August 2008, an ALB infestation was detected in Worcester County, Massachusetts and subsequently in Boston, Massachusetts in 2010. Most recently, an ALB infestation was detected in Tate Township, Clermont County, Ohio in 2011. The Clermont County Map Parcel Viewer can be accessed at http://maps.clermontauditor.org/apps/viewer/. Currently, USDA’s APHIS‐PPQ) division is implementing quarantine and control strategies in NY, MA, NJ and OH that seek to eradicate this serious pest from the United States.

The Asian Longhorned Beetle is classified in the wood boring beetle family Cerambycidae. Adults are 1 to 1½ inches in length with long antennae and are shiny black with small white markings on the body and antennae.

After mating, adult females chew depressions into the bark of various hardwood tree species in which they lay their eggs. Once the eggs hatch, small white larvae bore their way through the cambium into the tree, feeding on the sensitive vascular layer beneath. The larvae continue to feed deeper into the tree’s heartwood forming tunnels, or galleries, in the trunk and branches. This damage weakens the structural integrity of the tree eventually resulting in the death of the tree. Over the course of a year larvae will mature and then pupate near the surface, under the bark. From the pupa, an adult beetle emerges, chewing its way out of the tree, forming characteristic round exit holes approximately 3/8ths of an inch in diameter. Many exit holes will appear on a heavily infested tree frequently accompanied by frass and sap oozing from the holes. Beetle emergence typically takes place from June through October with adults moving in search of mates and new egg‐laying sites to complete their life cycle.

1.2 Submission Requirements

a. Offerors are advised to carefully review the proposal submission requirements specified in this section and the provision 52.212‐2, Evaluation – Commercial Items. This is a best value trade‐off procurement. The Government reserves the right to award to other than the lowest priced offer. It is the Offeror’s responsibility to ensure completeness of the proposal. The Government may evaluate solely on the information provided in the offer and will not assume that any Offeror possesses capabilities that are not specifically identified in the offer.

Failure to comply with the requirements of the solicitation may result in a proposal receiving no further consideration for award unless the Contracting Officer decides to hold discussions, and includes the Offeror in the competitive range.

b. Solicitation Submittal Requirements:

The following items are required to be submitted in order to be eligible for award. Offers shall be submitted electronically in the following format:

1) Cover letter including the following information:

a) The solicitation number

b) The Offeror’s name, address, telephone number and facsimile numbers, and email address

c) Names, titles, telephone and facsimile numbers and email addresses of persons authorized to negotiate on the Offeror’s behalf with the Government in connection with this solicitation

d) Name, title, and signature of person authorized to sign the proposal. Proposals signed by an agent shall be accompanied by evidence of that agent’s authority

2) Signed SF1449 and acknowledgement of amendments if applicable

3) Completed Pricing Schedule (Section 1.0).

4) Responses to all technical evaluation factors as specified in Section 1.2.1 and the provision 52.212‐2, Evaluation – Commercial Items. The format used for the areas and factors below should be strictly adhered to. All responses in the Offeror’s package must clearly indicate the applicable evaluation factors and subfactors.

5) The following completed representations and certifications (See Section 8.0, Solicitation Provisions):

a) 52.209‐7 Information Regarding Responsibility Matters (Jul 2013)

b) AGAR 452.209‐70 Representation by Corporations Regarding an Unpaid Delinquent Tax Liability or a Felony Conviction Under Any Federal Law – Fiscal Year 2015 Appropriations and Beyond (Deviation 2015‐01).

6) If applicable, a copy of any Teaming, Joint Venture or Mentor‐Protégé Agreement

All pages containing text shall be consecutively numbered, type‐written on 8½ x 11 inch paper with margins of at least one inch, and created using a font no smaller than 12.

c. Offerors must register and complete online representations and certifications in the System for Award Management (SAM) at www.sam.gov prior to the solicitation closing date. The Government will review completed Representations and Certifications in SAM following the solicitation closing date. Separate submission of the completed provisions 52.212‐3 and 52.209‐5 is NOT required with proposal submissions.

d. All questions must be submitted via email to Lisa Draves at lisa.a.draves@aphis.usda.gov no later than five (5) days prior to the solicitation closing date. Responses will not be provided to telephonic inquiries.

e. In accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) Subpart 9.1, Offerors may be requested to provide additional information in order to assist the Government in making a responsibility determination. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

A description of the resources available to demonstrate the firm is capable of complying with the performance requirements of 52.219‐14, Limitations on Subcontracting.

Financial statements, including balance sheets that identify major categories of assets, liabilities, and owner’s equity, and profit and loss statements for the past three (3) years.

A Bank Certification of Financial Capability (line of credit)

This information will be treated as confidential commercial or financial information to the extent permitted by law under exemption 4 to the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552(b)(4). The financial statements should be not over 60 days old. If over 60 days old, a certification should be attached stating that the financial condition of the firm is substantially the same or, if not the same, the changes that have taken place.

e. Offers must include a price for all items in this solicitation to be eligible for award. The Government will award on an “All or None” basis.

1.2.1 Mandatory Submission Requirements for Non‐Price Related Evaluation Factors The evaluation factors and significant sub‐factors are listed below. It is intended that proposals be evaluated, and award made, without discussions with the offerors (other than communications conducted for the purpose of minor clarification(s)). If discussions are determined to be necessary, discussions will occur with all offerors unless a competitive range has been established. Failure to submit mandatory information for a factor, indicated by the word shall, will result in a rating of “unacceptable” for that factor, and the offeror will be ineligible for award unless the Contracting Officer decides to hold discussions, and includes the offeror in the competitive range.

EVALUATION FACTORS

a. EVALUATION FACTOR: TECHNICAL CAPABILITY

Submittal Requirements: Technical Capability includes the following significant subfactors: Technical

Approach, Relevant Project Experience, Quality Assurance, and Key Personnel. Offerors shall submit the information specified for each subfactor.

1) Subfactor #1: Technical Approach

Submittal Requirements:

1. Management Plan (10 pages maximum). Offers shall include a narrative description of how the offeror plans to utilize resources to execute and manage the project. The Management Plan shall, at minimum, address the following:

A clear and detailed description of the equipment and personnel that will be used to complete the requirements of this contract.

An explanation of how the contractor would mobilize personnel and equipment to establish 10 crews working at 15 properties per day and removal of approximately 600 trees per week

A detailed description of the distribution of work being performed by the Offeror and its subcontractors

Offerors shall provide the names of major subcontractors that will perform a significant portion of the tree removal and restoration work. Major subcontractors are defined as members of an offeror’s overall team who are expected to perform ten (10) percent or more of the proposed effort.

An explanation of how the contractor will provide Ohio State Certified Commercial Pesticide Applicators as necessary to directly supervise trained service persons for the application of contractually approved herbicide agents to stumps not ground below grade in accordance with the requirements of the contract.

A graphical representation (organization charts) and a written description of the lines of authority and supervision, including who will directly manage and control the labor force and all other aspects of work performed under this contract on a daily basis.

2. Removal Plans (3 pages maximum per plan). Offers shall include seven (7) removal plans developed from the sample task information provided in Attachment 1, Sample Properties.

Each Removal Plans shall, at minimum, address the following:

A detailed and clear description of the equipment and crew to perform the work

Designated parking and staging areas

A proposed schedule for completing the tree removal and restoration requirements

Description of plan, alternatives, contingencies, surveillance/quality assurance, and any other pertinent information

2) Subfactor # 2: Relevant Project Experience

Submittal Requirement:

Offerors shall provide information to demonstrate the relevant project experience of the offeror and major subcontractors that will perform tree removal work.

Relevant project experience is defined as similar tree removal and restoration work, performed in residential/commercial landscaped and/or residential/commercial wooded lots, that is similar in scope and complexity. Work that exclusively involves land clearing and/or logging is not considered relevant.

Major subcontractors are defined as members of an offeror’s overall team who are expected to perform ten (10) percent or more of the proposed effort.

The Project Experience Questionnaire (Attachment 2) included in the solicitation is provided for the offeror to submit to the client for each relevant project the offeror includes in its proposal for this subfactor.

The offeror shall submit a completed Project Experience Questionnaire (Attachment 2) for each project submitted as an example of relevant experience. A minimum of three (3) and a maximum of five (5) projects total shall be submitted with the Offer for work performed within the last three (3) years from the release date of this solicitation. Projects must be at least 75% complete and performed within the last three (3) years as of the release date of this solicitation.

All points of contact, phone numbers, and email addresses should be verified by the Offeror prior to submission. Points of contact must have first‐hand knowledge of the project from a contractual, managerial, and technical perspective. If the offeror is unable to obtain a completed Project Experience Questionnaire form from a client for a project(s) before the proposal closing date, the offeror should complete and submit with the proposal the first page of the Questionnaire, which will provide contract and client information for the respective project(s). Offerors should follow‐up with clients/references to ensure timely submittal of questionnaires. If the client requests, questionnaire may be submitted directly to the Government’s point of Contact, Lisa Draves, via email at lisa.a.draves@aphis.usda.gov prior to the proposal closing date.

If more than five (5) examples are submitted for a firm (prime contractor and/or major subcontractor), only the five (5) most recent projects will be considered.

An assessment of the quality of the work performed for the projects submitted as examples of relevant experience will be evaluated separately under the evaluation factor Past Performance.

Changes to firms identified as performing a significant portion of work will require the Contracting Officer’s written consent before making any substitution.

3) Subfactor # 3: Quality Control Plan (5 pages maximum)

Submittal Requirements:

Offerors shall include a detailed plan explaining how they will conduct quality assurance for all the requirements listed in the solicitation, including, but not limited to: contractor surveillance, inspection, deficiency identification and correction, communication/documentation, and personnel roles/responsibilities related to managing the contractor’s quality control plan.

4) Subfactor # 4: Key Personnel (5 pages maximum)

1. Resumes. Offers shall include resumes for Key Personnel. Key Personnel are defined as the Project Manager and Project Arborist.

Project Manager. The Project Manager shall have a minimum of three years’ experience overseeing a minimum of three (3) crews working simultaneously on projects.

Project Arborist. The Project Arborist shall have a current certificate from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or equivalent. Submit copy of certificate with proposal.

Note: If key positions are currently vacant, the offeror shall submit the minimum qualifications required for individuals to fulfill these vacancies. If personnel proposed are later replaced, replacement personnel must have equal or better qualifications as those proposed and must be approved by the contracting officer before they can perform work. (See 452.237‐74 Key Personnel.)

2. Evidence of personnel with current electrical line clearance tree trimmer certifications in accordance with OSHA 1910.269 and 1910.331, or ability to obtain resources.

b. EVALUATION FACTOR: PAST PERFORMANCE

Past performance is a measure of the degree to which an Offeror was successful on previous projects, as measured by the level of past customer satisfaction. It is also a measure of the degree to which an

Offeror has complied with Federal, State, and local laws and regulations. Past performance information is one indicator of an Offeror’s ability to perform the contract successfully.

There are no separate submittal requirements for this evaluation factor. To evaluate past performance, the Government will rely upon, among other information, the submittals required under Technical Approach subfactor #2, “Relevant Project Experience”.

The Government’s assessment of past performance will focus mainly on the Offeror’s and major subcontractors’ reputations with customers and other sources. The Government may use information provided by the offeror in its proposal and information obtained from other sources for projects performed within the past three (3) years.

The Government will consider the documented quality assessment results provided with the completed Project Experience Questionnaires. (See “Technical Approach” subfactor # 2, “Relevant Project Experience”). If more than five (5) questionnaires are submitted, only the five most recent projects will be considered.

The Government will consider the currency of past performance information, source of the information, context of the data, and general trends in the contractor’s and major subcontractors’ performance. The Government may contact any or all of the past performance references provided by the Offeror in response to this solicitation, and may also use information obtained from any other sources, including Government files or data obtained through interviews with personnel familiar with the contractor/subcontractor and their current and past performance under previous contracts performed within the past three years. While the Government may elect to consider data from other sources, the burden of providing detailed, current, accurate and complete past performance rests with the Offeror.

In the case of an offeror without a record of relevant past performance or for whom information on past performance is not available, the offeror will not be evaluated favorably or unfavorably provided the offeror certifies that additional relevant project information is not available and provides an acceptable explanation as to why additional past performance is not available.

A. Pricing Proposal: Pricing

Offerors shall complete and submit the price schedule with their proposal and include a price for each line item, including subtotals and totals. Failure to do so will result in the proposal being rejected without further consideration. A firm must only submit one proposal.

1.3 Type of Contract

This is a commercial indefinite‐delivery indefinite‐quantity contract. Contract and Contract and task order minimums and maximums are addressed in the following clauses: See 52.216‐19, “Order Limitations” and 452.216‐73 “Minimum and Maximum Contract Amounts”. The line item quantities listed in the Pricing Schedule are estimates for evaluation purposes only and are not intended to convey either a minimum or maximum quantity that will be ordered by the Government. The unit price that will be paid for any line item will not be changed based on the quantity actually ordered by the Government. The ultimate contract price for any given ordering period will be the sum of the task orders issued during that period.

Work will be ordered through the issuance of individual task orders as the requirements of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are defined. Each task order will include the specific requirements related to the work covered by the task order, and delivery or performance requirements. Task Order prices will be in accordance with the fixed rates established in the Pricing Schedule. Orders may be issued orally, by facsimile, or by electronic commerce methods.

1.4 Definitions

Collateral Trees: Non‐targeted trees larger than 2 DBH that are damaged incidental to the removal of the targeted trees. The damage to these trees is such that the tree is not expected to survive or in the case of a planted ornamental tree, the tree no longer provides the esthetic value prior to the damage. An example of an ornamental tree no longer providing the esthetic value it once did would be a hawthorn where the branches on one side have been knocked off. There are two types of collateral trees: those that are identified and agreed upon prior to removal operations, and those that result from less than careful removal procedures.

Contracting Officer (CO): A person with the authority to enter into, administer, and/or terminate contracts and make related determinations and findings. The term includes certain authorized representatives of the contracting officer acting within the limits of their authority as delegated by the contracting officer. Contracting Officers may bind the Government only to the extent of the authority delegated to them.

Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR): An individual, including a contracting officer’s technical representative (COTR), designated and authorized in writing by the contracting officer to perform specific technical or administrative functions. If the Contracting Officer designates a COR/COTR or Alternate COR/COTR, the Contractor will receive a copy of the written designation. It will specify the extent of the COR’s authority to act on behalf of the contracting officer. The COR/COTR is not authorized to make any commitments or changes that will affect price, quality, quantity, delivery, or any other term or condition of the contract.

DBH: Diameter at Breast Height: The diameter of a tree measured at ~4.5 feet from the ground. See Section 5.1 DBH measurement for details.

Deregulated: Branches less than one half inch (1/2”) in diameter or chips of a size less than 1” in at least two dimensions or meeting current regulations outlined in 7 CFR 301.51.

High Risk Host: Any host tree that has not been declared infested with ALB by project staff but that has been determined to be at an especially high risk of becoming infested by the USDA/ODA and therefore marked for removal.

Host: any tree in which Asian longhorned beetle can infest and complete its life cycle. All species belonging to the following 12 genera: Acer (maple), Aesculus (buckeye, hosechestnut), Betula (birch), Salix (willow), Ulmus (elm), Populus (poplar), Platanus (sycamore, London plane), Fraxinus (ash), Albizia (mimosa), Cercidiphyllum (katsura), Sorbus (mountain ash), Koelreuteria (goldenraintree)

GOV: Government Owned Vehicle

Livestock: Live mammals commonly raised for food, fiber, and riding such as goats, sheep, cattle, alpaca, and horses.

Removal Site: parcel(s) where work to be done is encompassed under one removal work plan.

Regulated Article: As defined by 7 CFR 301.51‐2 the following are regulated articles:

(a) Firewood (all hardwood species), and green lumber and other material living, dead, cut, or fallen, inclusive of nursery stock, logs, stumps, roots, branches, and debris of half an inch or more in diameter of the following genera: Acer (maple), Aesculus (horse chestnut), Albizia (mimosa), Betula (birch), Celtis (hackberry), Cercidiphyllum (katsura), Fraxinus (ash), Koelreuteria (golden rain tree), Platanus (sycamore), Populus (poplar), Salix (willow), Sorbus (mountain ash), and Ulmus (elm).

(b) Any other article, product, or means of conveyance not covered by paragraph (a) of this section if an inspector determines that it presents a risk of spreading Asian longhorned beetle and notifies the person in possession of the article, product, or means of conveyance that it is subject to the restrictions of this subpart.

Restoration: Restoring all collateral damage caused by removal operations such as topsoil replacement and seeding, replacing items that have been moved or damaged, pruning cuts, and replanting.

Stump grinding: grinding the stump and surface roots extending directly from the stump until roots recede underground. In landscape settings, stump grinding also includes excavating grindings, filling any remaining hole or dip with topsoil, seed, and placement of straw in designated areas.

Stump Treatment: the application of herbicide to stump and root tissue following removal of a tree resulting in complete tree/stump mortality.

Tree Removal: Includes removal of the entire tree with stump height being no greater than 2” from grade, clean up and removal of all woody debris beneath the canopy, and removal of any debris caused by tree removal.

Woody Debris Pickup: Trees or debris (e.g. firewood, brush) on a property that have not been felled by the contractor but need to be removed.

2.0 Scope of Work

The United State Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) is contracting for the removal of Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB) host trees, shrubs, limbs, branches, exposed surface roots and stumps (not all inclusive) infested and at high risk of infestation by ALB in Clermont County Ohio, with the possibility of expansion into surrounding areas if new infestations are identified. As USDA/ODA continues to survey trees in and around the Quarantine Zone, additional infested trees are expected to be detected.

Service will be on an as‐needed basis in support of the USDA and Ohio Department of Agriculture’s (ODA) program to eradicate ALB in Tate Townships, Clermont County, Ohio. Tree removal activities will be completed on public and private property, in both landscaped and woodlot areas.

The period of performance shall include a six‐month base period, a six‐month option period, and two option years. See clauses 52.218‐18, Ordering and 52.216‐22, Indefinite Quantity.

The current area of work includes properties in Clermont County only, but the work area may expand into other counties throughout Ohio if other infestation locations are identified. The contractor may be required to service two or more sites simultaneously to meet the eradication goals of the USDA.

The USDA is working under the authority of the Plant Protection Act of June 20, 2000, as amended, Section 412 (a), 7 U.S.C.7712 (a) and the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Sections 901.051 and 927.70.

The contractor shall provide all personnel, labor, supervision, supplies, equipment, and materials required to remove ALB infested and/or high risk host trees, the stump grinding of all landscaped removed trees, the stump grinding of woodlot trees when deemed necessary by the USDA, the application of approved herbicide on stumps when deemed necessary by the USDA, the disposal of all removed trees and woody debris, and the restoration of properties where removal work has been completed, in accordance with this Statement of Work

(SOW).

The payment provided for in the contract shall constitute full compensation for furnishing all materials and for performing all work under the contract in a complete and acceptable manner. Payment items for the work of this contract are listed in the Pricing Schedule and described in this Scope of Work. The unit price and payment made for each item listed shall constitute full compensation for providing equipment, tools, supplies, labor supervision, incidental materials, quality control, environmental protection, meeting safety requirements, and performing all work as provided in this contract. Except as otherwise specified in this contract, all costs associated with incidental work shall be included in the Pricing Schedule item with which that incidental work is most closely associated. The payment provided for in the contract includes compensation for all risk, loss, damage, and expense arising out of the nature of the work or its prosecution, subject to conditions of the contract. Payment as provided for under the contract constitutes compensation in full for completing the requirements as specified in each Task Order.

The Contractor shall, without additional expense to the Government, be responsible for obtaining any necessary licenses and permits, and for complying with any Federal, State, and municipal laws, codes, and regulations applicable to the performance of the work. The contractor is responsible for coordinating access with property owners and obtaining work permits for all properties as required. Coordinating access and work permits must be obtained prior to the start of work on such properties (see 3.1 Permission to Remove Trees).

The contractor is responsible for completing work with the highest quality standards, timeliness, and least public disruption as this is critical to the success of the ALB eradication project.

As USDA continues surveys and as additional infested trees are identified, or if other control methods like high‐ risk host removal are selected, USDA/ODA may order additional work as necessary. Current removals are occurring at approximately 600 trees per week but have been as low as 10 – 15 trees per week. The contractor must maintain at least one crew and have the capacity to expand to 10 crews at any time (the maximum number the contractor will be required to provide). See 52.216‐19, Order Limitations and 452.216‐73 Minimum and Maximum Contract Amounts.

Maps of the ALB quarantine zone where removal operations will take place are included, updated maps will be provided to the successful contractor. In no event shall the failure of the contractor to visit the removal areas and consider general and local site conditions prior to submitting their proposal be grounds for a claim or price adjustment after award.

2.1 General Requirements

2.1.1 Contractor Requirements

1. A valid pesticide business license for the State of Ohio. The contractor must have a valid Ohio Pesticide Application Business License. A copy must be submitted to the Contracting Officer’s Representative within 10 days following notice of award.

2. The contractor must provide as many Ohio State Certified Commercial Pesticide Applicators as necessary to directly supervise trained service persons for the application of contractually approved herbicide agents to stumps not ground below grade in accordance with the requirements of the contract.

3. The contractor must be bonded and insured at the minimum levels established by the State of Ohio, or by contract clause AGARS 452.228‐71 (Alt 1) Insurance Coverage, whichever is higher.

4. At least one arborist, employed on a fulltime basis, with current certification from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or equivalent organization shall be available for immediate consultation each day when any work is being conducted.

5. At least two removal crew members at each job site shall have current electrical line clearance tree trimmer certification in accordance to OSHA 1910.269 and 1910.331 when removals are being conducted near electric lines as identified in the Work Plan. Qualifications must be presented to the USDA prior to commencement of work and any time a new certified employee or sub‐contractor begins work on this contract.

6. If there are identified railroad lines and other transportation locations in the removal area, safety training or clearance for access must be accomplished before the start of removal activities. Insurance or security bonds for removals must be secured before removal activities begin. The contractor is responsible for tracking safety personnel as required, including but not limited to flaggers and lookouts.

This may be accomplished by using contractor personnel or if required, railroad authorized staff. The contractor is responsible for all associated costs for this staff.

7. Before commencing work, the successful contractor (and any sub‐contractors) shall attend an ALB compliance training and be certified by the USDA to perform work within the ALB Regulated Area. The training will be provided at the Ohio ALB Program office at a mutually agreeable date and time.

8. Contractors shall ensure that employees and sub‐contractors have passed a standard commercial background check prior to conducting work for the program. Qualifications must be presented to the COR no later than 3 business days after notice of award.

9. The Contractor shall pre‐screen Candidates using the E‐verify Program (http://www.dhs.gov/E‐Verify) website to meet the established employment eligibility requirements. The Vendor must ensure that the Candidate has two valid forms of Government issued identification prior to ensure the correct information is entered into the E‐verify system. An initial list of verified/eligible Candidates must be provided to the COR no later than 3 business days after the notice of award.

2.1.2 Project Manager and Foremen

The contractor shall designate a Project Manager (Contractor’s Representative (CR)) for overseeing the work performed under this contract. The Project Manager shall have a minimum of three years’ experience overseeing multiple work crews working simultaneously on projects.

The contractor shall ensure that one foreman is assigned to work with and supervise each removal crew. The contractor will define the respective roles, responsibilities, and delegation of authority for the Project Manager, and Foremen in their detailed work plan. USDA shall not pay the travel costs for replacement of unacceptable staff or emergency staffing changes.

Contractor Foreman shall be present in the field with their respective crews in each removal and restoration area at all times while work is being performed. If at any time the Foreman must leave the removal site, he shall designate a temporary Foreman to direct work in his/her absence. The Foreman shall inform the government monitor of the name of the temporary Foreman as well as the length of the expected absence prior to leaving the site. Refer to section 2.1.4 Use of Subcontractors for additional Foreman requirements in regard to subcontractors.

The Project Manager (Contractor’s Representative) shall remain available to the USDA COR by cellular phone on a twenty‐four hour / seven‐days‐per‐week basis during active field operations.

2.1.3 Identification

The contractor shall require each employee, including subcontractor employees, to be in possession of a photographic identification badge at all times when working under this contract during working hours. The badge placement on each person shall be consistent and it shall be readily visible to another individual. The badge shall display the contractor’s company name and phone number, “Asian Longhorned Beetle Cooperative Eradication Program,” and the employee’s full name and full facial image. Individuals actively engaged in tree work do not need to wear their identification badges on lanyards but must have them on their person so that it can be produced at any time. The project manager and any personal interacting with property owners shall have the identification badge readily visible.

The contractor shall also require its employees, as well as subcontractors, to wear a uniform and safety vest clearly identifying them as working for the contractor. Uniforms and IDs will be approved by USDA. The contractor shall submit in their technical proposal a description and image of the uniform and a sample of the

ID.

The contractor shall have two signs secured to every vehicle used during the performance of this contract. Signs shall be of professional quality, clearly legible at 20 feet, and with black lettering on a white background to read as follows:

ASIAN LONGHORNED BEETLE COOPERATIVE ERADICATION PROGRAM

USDA, ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE

OHIO DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

(513) 381‐7180

The…