RFP_REFORESTATION_IDIQ2010.doc

RFP FOR SERVICES

AG-8173-S-10-0010

ASNF REFORESTATION

APACHE—SITGREAVES NF’S

PAGES

SEALED BID (IFB)

NO.

FORMCHECKBOX

NEGOTIATED (RFP)

USDA FOREST SERVICE APACHE--SITGREAVES NF

SUPERVISOR’S OFFICE – ACQUISITION MANAGEMENT

PO BOX 640, 30 SOUTH CHIRICAHUA DRIVE

SPRINGERVILLE, ARIZONA 85938

SAME AS BOX 7

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

SOLICITATION

(Hour)

(Date)

CAUTION - LATE Submissions, Modifications, and Withdrawals: See Section L, Provision No. 52.214-7 or 52.215-10. All Offers are subject to all terms and conditions contained in this solicitation.

11. TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART III - LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND OTHER ATTACH.

PART IV - REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

OTHER STATEMENTS OF OFFERORS

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.

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.

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

15A.

NAME AND ADDRESS

OF OFFEROR

15B. TELEPHONE NO. (Include area code)

18. OFFER DATE

IS DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE - ENTER

FORMCHECKBOX

SUCH ADDRESS IN SCHEDULE.

AWARD (To be completed by Government)

22. AUTHORITY FOR USING OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN COMPLETION

(Signature of Contracting Officer)

IMPORTANT - Award will be made on this Form, or on Standard Form 26, or by other authorized official written notice.

PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B – SERVICES AND PRICES

B. 1. Contract Line Items:

(Easy install type shelters)

(Easy install type shelters)

NOTES:

PRE-PROPOSAL MEETING SCHEDULED FOR MARCH 4, 2010, 10:00 AM (SEE PAGE 70 FOR DETAILS).

ALL ACREAGES WILL BE MEASURED USING A “GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION SYSTEM” (GPS) AND ARE DETERMINED ON A HORIZONTAL PLANE WITHIN PLUS OR MINUS FIVE PERCENT.

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE SHALL BE A SPECIFIED NUMBER OF CALENDAR DAYS PER EACH TASK ORDER, FROM ISSUANCE OF NOTICE TO PROCEED.

INDIVIDUAL TASK ORDERS WILL BE ISSUED FOR VARIOUS PROJECT AREAS. PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS MAY VARY BY TASK ORDER.

OFFERS WILL BE EVALUATED ACCORDING TO THE EVALUATION FACTORS LISTED IN SECTION M. OFFERORS SHALL INCLUDE WITH THEIR RESPONSE A COPY OF A VALID CERTIFICATE FOR MIGRANT SEASONAL WORKER PROTECTION ACT (MSWPA). OFFERORS SHALL BE REGISTERED IN CCR (CENTRAL CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION) AND ORCA (ONLINE REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS) DATABASES (SEE SECTION G).

PART I – SECTION C - PERFORMANCE STATEMENT OF WORK

SECTION C1 - GENERAL

Introduction

The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests have a requirement for Forestwide Reforestation (Tree Planting) for the Alpine, Black Mesa, Clifton, Lakeside, and Springerville Ranger Districts to restore and reforest lands burned after wildfire, or in openings created by timber related activities, or other deforestation events such as wind-throw or pest epidemic. The purpose of this contract is to secure tree planting services in a manner that insures tree survival and growth. Tree survival and growth is dependant on the initial health of the tree seedlings, the manner in which trees are handled and planted, environmental conditions such as soil moisture and weather, and animal damage to the seedlings. The services secured with this contract will focus on the need to provide appropriate tree handling and planting techniques during a period of time when environmental conditions are most favorable to insure tree survival. The Government anticipates award of an Indefinite Delivery / Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Firm Fixed-Price Multiple Award Schedule contract based on best value. Government reserves the right to make a single award after reviewing responses to this Request For Proposals. Delivery Task Orders will be awarded against the awarded contract(s) under the Multiple Award Schedule. The objectives of each Task Order will have work locations by district, tree species to be planted, spacing required, whether or not tree shelters are required, and any other related specifications or needs.

The contractor shall, considering given resource objectives for the Task Orders, develop a plan of operation and organize and direct all of the equipment and personnel needed to fully accomplish the work.

This contract is determined on a per acre basis for each unit. Bids shall be determined on a per acre and/or lump sum basis for each Task Order. No extra payment or deduction of payment will be made for acreage variation within 5% plus or minus of the measured acres. It is the prospective bidder’s responsibility to determine the amount of work necessary to meet objectives within the contract time specified in accordance with the contract specifications, within the boundaries of the project area. It is highly recommended that prospective offeror’s visit the site to determine the amount of work necessary to complete the project as required by the contract specifications.

C1.1 Scope of Work

The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, expertise, labor, equipment, transportation, supplies (except those designated as Government furnished), and incidentals to perform all work necessary for successful tree planting. All aspects of the work of the contract shall be performed in an organized, professional, and systematic manner (which includes tree handling and planting) to assure services shall be performed over the entire unit.

The awarded contractor(s) shall be required to be registered with the Department of Labor under the Migrant and Seasonal Workers Protection Act.

There may be project areas located within boundaries of a recent wildfire. There may be snags and burned trees present in the planting units that create a potential for blow down trees or falling woody debris that increases during windy conditions.

C.1.2. This contract is a Performance Based Service Contract for which the statement of work consists of completing the tasks/subtasks in section C7 Performance Requirements Summary.

C.1.2.1. The term of the contract is anticipated to be for three years or as funding is available each Federal fiscal year. Period of performance will be determined on each task order by the number of working days calculated for each project.

C.1.3. Location and Description.

The general locations of the project work areas are within the Alpine, Black Mesa, Clifton, Lakeside, and Springerville Ranger Districts of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.

The boundaries for treated areas may be marked with paint, flagging, roads, or available on a GPS unit checked out to the Contractor. All treated areas will be designated on project area maps with each Task Order. Some units may be identified using a GPS unit which would be checked out to the Contractor for small blocks difficult to identify on the ground. Specific treatment requirements and restrictions will be listed in Project/Unit Information for each Task Order. Task orders will be issued for areas within the Rodeo-Chediski Fire area, other Fire areas as needed and White Mountain Stewardship Timber treated areas or in openings created by timber related activities, or other deforestation events such as wind-throw or pest epidemic.

C.1.3.1 Detailed Unit Information

Task Orders will contain detailed unit information. Topography ranges from flat to approximately 45 percent slope. Elevation ranges from 6,400 feet to 10,000 feet.

Contractor and contractor employees shall use proper safety precautions regarding safety hazards attributed to dead standing trees and other site hazards throughout the planting area.

Type of tree seedlings to be planted are containerized 1-0 and 2-0 stock, usually Ponderosa Pine and Douglas Fir seedlings (roots are approximately seven inches long). Riparian or hardwood species may be 3-0 stock with roots as long as 18 inches. Additional or other species and the species mix percentages will be specified in the detailed unit information for each task order.

The soil composition is sandstone, limestone or volcanic origin. Rock cobble is present in widely varying amounts throughout the project area. In many locations, clay is present in varying amounts. In certain locations, the presence of large amounts of rock cobble may significantly affect the ability to plant. Other locations will have varying amounts of plantability depending on the amount of rock cobble or small bedrock outcrops, competing vegetation, or other factors present.

The planting periods will vary with seasonal moisture in the Spring, Summer (monsoon rain season) and Fall depending on Silvicultural requirements.

Unit Description Table

Plant tree seedlings as specified

Plant tree seedlings as specified

(Approximately 90-160 shelters per/acre) See Section J, Exhibit 8 for types of Tree Shelters that may be used and their installation.

(Approximately 90-160 shelters per/acre) See Section J, Exhibit 8 for types of Tree Shelters that may be used and their installation.

B.1.5

Tree shelter removal

no scalping required Groups will be 4 to 8 feet apart Or staggered along the drainage

5 to 10 feet apart.

C.1.3.2 Accessibility

The project area is within the Forest and District boundaries as described above. Roads and accessibility will be described in each Task Order and shown on maps provided with each Task Order. The Contractor may clear any subsequent fallen trees that block roads needed to access units.

C.1.3.2.2. Tree transport within unit. The contractor may use system roads, terminal roads, and logging roads that run through the project area for access. However, many interior logging roads have been closed i.e., heavily water barred, washed out, or covered with down wood debris and dead trees. Any damage to the water bars and other material moved in the closure resulting from contractor’s use will be repaired to original condition by the contractor.

Example: If the contractor uses and/or opens a closed road, the contractor shall be required to repair water bars and reseed vegetation (grass and forbs) to original condition. If re-vegetation becomes necessary, the seed mix shall be determined by the Forest Service, but seed shall be provided by the contractor. Reseeding shall be to Forest Service Standards. If down woody debris is moved, it will be replaced to original condition.

ATV’s i.e.: 3-wheelers or 4-wheelers may be used off Forest System (primarily numbered roads) roads to deliver gas or oil, etc. During contract performance the Contracting Officer (CO) may exclude certain areas from ATV travel. The CO may restrict use of any road when such use of road will damage resources. A travel access permit may be required to use closed roads or to travel cross country using ATV’s.

C.1.3.2.3. Air Transport Air Operations are not allowed under this contract.

C1.4. Contractor Representative

The contractor shall provide a contract representative who is readily available to the project area for the performance of work. The name of this person and an alternate(s) who shall act for the contractor when the contractor is absent shall be designated in writing to the contracting officer. The contactor representative or alternate shall have full authority to act for the contractor on all contract matters relating to daily operation of this contract. All communications between the Government and the Contractor shall be in the English language which shall include writing and reading in English.

SECTION C2 – DEFINITIONS

C2.1 Standard Definitions

C2.1.2 Acceptable Service. A job performed to the standard and within the acceptable quality level. The Contractor must do the specific job, and meet the standard, and meet the acceptable quality level before one can say that performance is acceptable for payment.

C2.1.3 Acceptable Quality Level (AQL). The maximum allowable deviation from perfect performance that may occur before the Government will invoke payment deduction. An AQL does not allow a contractor knowingly to offer defective service, but limits reduced payment to circumstances in which defective performance results in a measurable reduction in the value of services rendered.

C2.1.4 Best Value. Government method used to evaluate offers submitted in response to solicitation. See Section M for definition of best value for this solicitation.

C2.1.5 Contracting Officer (CO). A Government employee 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.

C2.1.6 Calendar Days. Every day shown on the calendar, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays included.

C2.1.7 Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). The Contracting Officer will delegate the administration of the on the ground work to qualified government employee. The duties and responsibilities of a COR are defined in the letter of designation by the CO.

C2.1.8 Defective Service. A unit of service that contains one or more defects, or nonconformance with specified requirements.

C2.1.9 Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR). The Federal Regulations that govern Forest Service acquisitions of property and services, also supplemented by the FSAR (Forest Service Acquisition Regulations).

C2.1.10 Government. Title used to represent the United States Federal Government and its designated employees acting within their delegated contract authority. Throughout this contract the titles United States, USDA- Forest Service, Forest Service, and USFS may be used interchangeably as synonymous with Government.

C2.1.11 Government Inspector. The COR may designate in writing a government employee to assist with surveillance and minor administrative duties of the contract.

C2.1.12 Performance Based Service Contract (PBSC). A service contract that (1) Describes requirements in terms of results required rather than the methods of performance of the work; (2) Use measurable performance standards (i.e., terms of quality, timeliness, quantity, etc.) and quality assurance surveillance plans; (3) Specifies procedures for reductions of fee or for reductions to the price of a fixed-price contract when services are not performed or do not meet contract requirements; (4) May include performance incentives where appropriate.

C2.1.13 Performance Requirements Summary (PRS). Identifies the key service outputs of the contract that will be evaluated by the Government to assure contract performance standards are met by the contractor.

C2.1.14 Performance Work Statement (PWS). A statement of work to be performed which identifies the specific work to be performed.

C2.1.15 Period of Performance (also Performance Period or Contract Time).

The number of calendar days allowed in the contract for completion of the contract work.

C2.1.16 Quality Assurance. Those actions taken by the Government to assure services meet the requirements of the Performance Work Statement (PWS).

C2.1.17 Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). An organized written document used for quality assurance surveillance. The document contains specific methods the Government will use to perform surveillance of the contractor.

C2.1.18 Quality Control. Those actions taken by a contractor to control the performance of services so that they meet the requirements of the PWS. The methods for inspecting for quality control are described in the Contractor’s Quality Control Plan (QCP).

C2.1.19 Random Sampling. A sampling method in which each service output in a unit has an equal chance of being selected.

C2.1.20 Standard. An acknowledged measure of comparison.

C2.2 Technical Definitions

C2.2.1 Acceptable established tree. An existing conifer of seedling size that is of good form, color, free of damage, has 50% or greater crown ratio, and is the species and size specified in the Task Order.

C2.2.2 Access point. The point identified for access to planting areas.

C2.2.3 Animal Damage Control (ADC). Methods for protecting the seedlings from animal damage, particularly big game. May include vexar tubing or flexible netting.

C2.2.4 Bole. The trunk or stem of a tree.

C2.2.5 Tree Shelter. Materials not found on the planting site used to shelter the tree.

C2.2.6 Clean water and buckets. Water and buckets used for tree dipping that are free of contaminants that could injure the trees. Water is initially suitable for human consumption.

C2.2.7 Clearing. Removal of surface debris around the planting hole to avoid debris from falling into the hole. Debris includes duff, litter, rotten or charred wood, moss, loose rock, ashes, snow, surface frost.

C2.2.8 Container plug. Seedling grown in a receptacle containing soil and nutrients. When the container seedlings are extracted from the receptacle, the soil stays in tact around the roots. The soil and roots together are referred to as the container plug; the soil is the container media.

C2.2.9 Controlled Area. Areas delineated by flagging for the purpose of protecting sensitive plants, animals, or heritage resources. The areas will be marked on the ground, however, they are not located on the project map, other than the unit they occur in.

C2.2.10 Damage. Defect or deformity of a tree resulting from agents such as wind, snow, animals, insects, or equipment, and evidenced by dead or broken tops or trunks, crooks, deep scars or damage to the bark on more than ¼ of the circumference of the tree.

C2.2.11 Dead and Down Trees. (Dead and/or down) Dead standing (or leaning) trees and/or dead trees that have fallen or been chained to the ground.

C2.2.12 Dead Trees. Trees with no live needles or limbs.

C2.2.13 Delivery point. The district cooler at Pinedale will be the point for delivery of trees and other supplies. If there are multiple points for delivery of various items, it will noted at the pre-work.

C2.2.14 Drip line. The line extending vertically from the exterior edge of a tree’s live crown to the ground.

C2.2.15 Elevation. The elevation recorded in feet above sea level for the majority of the site.

C2.2.16 Ephemeral drainage. A drainage which forms the lowest spot of the surrounding ground. It forms obvious channel continuity along its length and joins with more obvious channels downstream. It shows evidence of having run water on previous occasions, i.e., litter and vegetation has moved, or there is a lack of litter in the channel.

C2.2.17 Flagging Color Designations. The colors of flagging to be used by the Forest Service and the Contractor will be determined prior to operations.

C2.2.18 Foreign material (in planting hole). Large rocks, sticks, litter or similar material not part of the surrounding soil substrate that is in the planting hole after the tree is planted.

C2.2.19 Ground line of tree before planting. The original ground line of the tree before planting is the soil surface level in the nursery beds or in the container receptacle. It is between the cotyledon scar and the root collar.

C2.2.20 Inbox temperature. The temperature near the center of the box of trees measured with a probe thermometer or similar instrument. This is the temperature of the seedlings while in the shipping boxes.

C2.2.21 Lateral Roots. The horizontal roots extending from the main vertical (tap) root.

C2.2.22 Microsite. A plantable spot favorable to seedling survival and growth. Examples of favorable microsites are stumps, down logs, large slash, snags, and standing cull trees that provide protection from sun, wind, animals, and other damaging agents.

C2.2.23 Moist Soil (in the planting hole). The soil in the planting hole is considered “moist” if it is similar in moisture to the undisturbed soil next to the planting hole at similar depth.

C2.2.24 Plantable Spot. An area where a tree can be planted in accordance with all specifications in the contract. In the R-3 Planting Inspection method, a plantable spot is also any area where the Contractor has planted a tree.

C2.2.25 R-3 Planting Inspection. The standard planting inspection procedure as described in Forest Service Handbook. Includes the description of planting violations that result in unsatisfactorily planted trees, plot sizes, calculations for determining planting quality based on trees planted, and similar information. Refer to Section J, Exhibit 6 for copy of inspection form and reference tables.

C2.2.26 Project Area. A number of geographically grouped units within the analysis area to form a single Task Order.

C2.2.27 Project Information. A document included with the task order with specific information about the project area, including treatment acres and road use limitations.

C2.2.28 Residual tree. Live trees remaining in the unit after the harvest or fire activity.

C2.2.29 Root length. The root length measured from the original ground line to the end of the main vertical or tap root.

C2.2.30 Satisfactorily planted tree. A tree that is planted in accordance with FSH 2409.17, 2.64 and 2.67. Refer to Section J, Exhibit 4 for diagrams of satisfactorily planted trees. A satisfactorily planted tree is considered an acceptable tree.

C2.2.31 Scalping. The removal of live vegetation including roots to reduce competition from existing vegetation and to expose mineral soil. The diameter of the scalp and the minimum depth of the scalp is specified section C5.3.2.

C2.2.32 Shade and Protection. Natural and artificial materials that protect the tree from the sun’s heat and wind, and act as an obstacle protecting the tree from animals. Artificial materials or tree shelters as shown in Section J, Exhibit 8 may be required under some task orders. The type of shade and/or protection material and effort required by the planter to shade or protect the tree varies depending on the site conditions of each unit. The contract incorporates these methods, which are specified in the Task Order.

· Stationary material only. A tree planted next to stationary material when it is available. When stationary material is not available, the tree is not planted.

· Stationary material first, then plant in open. A tree planted next to stationary material when it is available. When stationary material is not available, a tree may be planted in the open.

· Stationary material first, then transportable shade. A tree planted next to stationary material when it is available. When stationary material does not exist in the spacing allowance, shade is transported to the seedlings. Suitable transportable shade meets the definition for Transportable Shade. When neither stationary nor transportable material exists, the tree is not planted.

· Stationary material first, transportable shade second, plant in open last. A tree planted next to stationary material when it is available. If stationary material does not exist in the spacing allowance, shade is transported to the tree. Suitable transportable shade meets the definition for transportable shade. When neither stationary nor transportable material exists, the tree may be planted in the open.

· Stationary material or transportable shade (planter discretion). A tree is planted next to either stationary material or transportable shade at the planter’s discretion. Suitable transportable shade meets the definition for Transportable Shade. When neither stationary nor transportable material is available, the tree is not planted.

· Stationary material or transportable shade (planter discretion), then plant in the open. A tree planted next to either stationary material or transportable shade at the planter’s discretion. Suitable transportable shade meets the definition for transportable shade. When neither stationary nor transportable material is available, the tree may be planted in the open.

· No shade. A tree that is planted based on spacing and there is no requirement to select the planting spot based on shade or protection.

C2.2.33 Stationary material. Natural material used to shade or protect the tree that is not moveable by the planter. This includes items such as stumps, logs, dead brush, rocks, or terrain features used to provide the required protection for a tree. Stationary material generally offers the most protection for seedlings from sun and animal trampling.

C2.2.34 Snag. Any standing or leaning dead tree taller than 6 feet.

C2.2.35 Stream course. The area along a stream with riparian vegetation and other riparian characteristics.

C2.2.36 Top height. The length from the original ground line to the top of the terminal leader; does not include needles extending above the leader.

C2.2.37 Transportable shade. Natural material such as wood debris that can be moved to the planting spot to shade the tree from the sun.

C2.2.38 Trees in possession of the Contractor. The time after trees have been issued to the Contractor. During this time, the Contractor is responsible for all aspects of tree care and accountable for tree quantities.

C2.2.39 Unit Information. A document included in the Task Order and shown on the project map that describes the treatment and activities that will occur in the unit.

C2.2.40 Unplantable spot. An area where a tree cannot be planted satisfactorily and no tree has been planted. An allowance is given in the standard R-3 Planting Inspection for unplantable spots within the plot.

C2.2.41 Unsatisfactory planted tree. A planted tree which fails to meet one or more of the specifications of a satisfactorily planted tree. Refer to definitions for planting violations described by R-3 Planting Inspection. Refer to Section J, Exhibit 4 for examples of unsatisfactory planted trees.

C2.2.42 Wasted material. Material provided to the Contractor to conduct a task such as installing tree shelters that are lost, dropped, or damaged by the Contractor, or which are installed on trees not in accordance with the requirements of the contract.

C2.2.43 Wasted tree. A tree which is lost, damaged, destroyed or handled contrary to the standards for care of trees. Planted trees that exceed the maximum number of trees in the R-3 Planting Inspection plot procedure are also considered wasted trees.

SECTION C3 – GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY, MATERIALS, SERVICES

Government-furnished property shall be receipted for by the contractor when delivered on Form AD-107. The property and services that will be provided by the Government are as follows:

Access roads are accessible by two-wheel drive vehicle equipped for mountain driving.

Needed permit provided at Prework meeting by the District.

Task Order to specify when, where, etc.

Species to be planted will be in the task order.

[OR one copy provided, to be duplicated by Contractor] Provided at Prework meeting. Sample provided in Section J, Exhibit 6

3.6 Wage Determination Sheet

Section J, Exhibit 1

The Government will deliver to the contractor the following listed materials, supplies, property or services (hereinafter referred to as "Government-furnished property") at the places and times specified in the Task Order. The contractor shall be liable for all loss or damage of such delivered Government-furnished property.

The government will deliver the seedlings to various locations needed. Not more than a one day supply will be kept on the planting site. The contractor shall unload and place the trees in a cool shaded location, after which the contractor shall be responsible for the trees in accordance with Section C7(PRS).

The contractor shall sign for each delivery of seedlings, and styrofoam seedling container blocks. The contractor shall return empty styrofoam seedling blocks and any unused seedlings to the government.

The Forest Service shall provide tree seedlings in accordance with the Task Order. The contractor shall order trees and other specified Government-furnished property as needed. Delivery will be made to the point designated in the Task Order. Government-furnished property shall be receipted for by the contractor when delivered on form AD-107.

Where the Government furnishes containerized tree seedlings, the contractor shall be responsible for returning the containers and trays to the COR who will credit the contractor with the number returned in an undamaged condition. The contractor shall be charged for each container and tray which is not returned, or is returned, but damaged beyond reuse, in accordance with the rates specified in the Task Order.

SECTION C4 – CONTRACTOR WORK REQUIREMENTS AND STANDARDS

C4.1. Road Access and Landings.

The Contractor may use system roads and service roads that run through the project areas for access with motorized vehicles such as cars, trucks, or other mechanized equipment to perform work during normal operating seasons. However, some of the interior roads have been closed, i.e., heavily water barred, ripped or brush placed on roadway. The Contractor will restore pre-existing water bars and road closure efforts resulting from Contractor’s use.

All cultural and historic sites will be protected. Most sites will be protected by complete avoidance by mechanized equipment. No tree planting (auger hole drilling) will occur within protected sites. Designated site boundaries will be identified and flagged by the Forest Service prior to operations.

Equipment operations for tree planting, is subject to “dry or frozen conditions” (See section J, Exhibits, Apache-Sitgreaves Rutting Guidelines).

The COR will approve the use, and conditions of use, of any road not shown on the project or unit map. Any new temporary road is required to be approved by the COR prior to construction.

C.4.2. CAMPING – SEE ALSO SECTION H

If the Contractor elects to camp, a signed permit by the District Ranger shall be obtained by the Contractor prior to occupation of an area. Site location will be discussed at post award meeting. The Contractor shall abide by the OSHA’s Field Sanitation Standard Fact Sheet No. OSHA 92-25, which applies to agricultural establishments hiring 11 or more workers for hand labor.

SECTION C5.0—PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT TASKS AND CRITICAL SUBTASKS

The following tasks are to be performed to the quality performance requirements shown on the Performance Requirements Summary table in Section C7.

C5.1. Orders and delivery.

C5.1.1. Tree Orders. The Contractor shall order trees at least 48 hours in advance of desired delivery. This time period is necessary to allow the Government time to prepare trees for planting and for acclimatization if needed.

C5.1.2 Planting Time. The Contractor shall plant all trees ordered and delivered to the planting unit by close of business on the day of delivery, unless otherwise approved by the COR. Trees shall not be returned to the Government for cooler storage unless approved by the COR. When the COR determines that conditions are unsuitable for planting, the Contractor shall return all unplanted trees to the delivery point with no penalty for delay in planting the delivered trees.

C5.1.4. Return Government Equipment. The Contractor shall return unused Government supplies, unplanted trees, all packaging materials, and wrapping materials to the delivery point at the end of each planting day.

C5.2. Tree Handling and Care

C5.2.1. The Contractor shall be responsible for the care of trees from the delivery point and throughout the time that trees are in possession of the Contractor to assure they are not damaged or exposed to damaging conditions consistent with FSH 2409.17, 2.53 parts 4 through 7. Trees not properly cared for may be considered wasted trees.

C5.2.2. Contractor shall not alter the trees (includes no root or top pruning).

C5.2.3. Contractor shall take precautions to keep roots moist and undamaged during the planting operation.

C5.2.4. The Contractor shall be aware of environmental hazards which affect tree survival; he/she shall alter crew work schedules and tree handling practices to allow planting whenever possible. Environmental Hazards are described in FSH 2409.17, 2.53, part 8 and 2.82 part 1c. (2).

C5.3. Tree Planting

C5.3.1. Satisfactorily Planted Tree. Trees shall be planted satisfactorily both above and below ground as defined in FSH 2409.17, 2.64 and 2.67. Trees shall be planted in moist soil, free of foreign debris, and in a hole deep enough to accommodate the fully extended tree roots and shall meet all requirements of the contract. The planting hole shall be consistent with the description in FSH 2409.17, 2.63. See Section J, Exhibit 4.

C5.3.2 Clearing and Scalping. Each planting spot shall be free of surface debris and competing vegetation consistent with FSH 2409.17, 2.62 parts 1 and 2. The minimum clearing distance is 20 inches (diameter) and depth is 3 inches. The minimum scalp diameter and depth will be stated in the Task Order and may differ from the stated 18-24” diameter stated in FSH 2409.17, 2. Other species may require some clearing of surface debris, no scalping.

C5.3.3. Shade. Trees shall be planted in the best microsite available to mitigate problems associated with hot dry aspects, consistent with FSH 2409.17, 2.61. Refer to Task Order for shade type required for each unit consistent with definitions in C.2. Each tree shall be as close to the shade material as possible.

C5.3.4. Spacing. Trees shall be planted in the average spacing specified in the Task Order. For individual trees, the spacing may be varied as much as 25 percent in any direction to attain the best plantable spot. The number of trees planted shall not be materially changed by the method of selecting planting spots. Juniper and Oak are not counted in the spacing unless defined in the Task Order. Some plantings may require group planting. Trees may be spaced at 4 to 8 feet in clumps of 5 to 10 trees. Spacing between groups may range from 50 to 150 feet apart. Typically this will apply to riparian species where plantings will occur along stream banks. Spacing guidelines and species to be planted will be specified in each task order.

C5.3.5. Acceptable established trees and other planted trees. A tree shall not be planted in a manner that directly competes with an acceptable established tree (see definition in C.2) or another planted tree. Refer to the Task Order for the species and size of acceptable established trees. Do not plant a tree closer than half the specified average spacing distance to an acceptable established tree or other planted tree.

C5.3.6. Residual trees. Trees shall not be planted within the immediate influence of established larger trees in the unit. No trees shall be planted closer than twenty feet from the dripline of healthy live ponderosa pine trees (30% live full crown or greater and less than 14 inches DBH). No trees shall be planted closer than fifty feet from the dripline of healthy live ponderosa pine trees (30% live full crown or greater and equal to or greater than 14 inches DBH).

C5.3.7. Trees not meeting specifications. The Contractor is not obligated to plant trees that do not meet the specifications in C.3.5 and they shall be returned to the Government. Except as noted below, if trees not meeting specifications are planted, they shall be planted satisfactorily.

C5.4 Shelter Installation /or Removal – as required by the Task Order C5.4.1. Shelters shall be installed concurrent with planting to protect trees from the afternoon sun and wind. Installation shall be consistent with the directions in Section J, Exhibit 8.

C5.4.2. Shelters shall be installed so as not to damage the tree including skinning the bark, breaking the leader, damaging the roots, or excessive bud stripping.

C5.4.3. The Contractor shall install shelters by the end of each day of planting.

C5.4.4 Pull and remove previously installed tree shelters. Shelters average between 90 and 180 per acre. The

Forest Service will identify an adjacent road and contractor will be expected to stack tree shelters for final removal from the site by the Forest Service. The Forest Service must be contacted within 24 hours that shelters are stacked and ready for removal.

C5.5 Submittals

C5.5.1 Quality Control Plan. The Contractor shall prepare a Quality Control Plan as described in Section E. The Contractor shall inspect the work in accordance with the accepted Quality Control Plan.

C5.5.2. Work Plan. The Contractor shall prepare a work plan and schedule that demonstrates that work will be completed within the performance period described in Section F. The Contractor shall provide a general plan with the technical proposal. A supplementary plan and schedule shall be provided after contract award, but 72 hours before start work.

The Contractor shall update the work plan as work is in progress to account for changes; and the updated work plan may be accepted by the Contracting Officer.

C5.5.3. Progress Schedule. The contractor shall prepare and submit a practical schedule showing the order in which the contractor will perform the work and the dates on which the contractor contemplates starting and completing each task.

C5.5.4. Safety Plan. The Contractor shall consider and address crew safety and provide a Safety Plan consistent with FAR 52.236.13 Accident Prevention Alt. I, recognizing that work items may be in areas of snags and fire burned trees.

C5.5.5. Communications. The Contractor shall keep the Contracting Officer advised as to where the Contractor can be reached prior to start of Contract Time. Further the Contractor shall maintain contact with the Contracting Officer during periods of work suspension to reduce any delay in resuming planting and to determine the best suitable time and conditions to resume planting.

C5.5.6 Immigration and Naturalization Service Form I-9 and Payrolls

A copy of Immigration and Naturalization Service Form I-9 and payrolls for all employees will be required before any payments for work done on the contract will be made. Fourteen days will be allowed for the I-9 Forms and payrolls will be required weekly or biweekly. The payrolls will contain the elements required by the Migrant and Seasonal Workers Protection Act. All employees of the contractor may be asked to present identification to a Forest Service Law Enforcement Officer at various times during the course of the contract. Failure to provide the above mentioned documents will result in delay of payment and/or suspension of the work of the contract.

SECTION C6. GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS / INDUSTRY STANDARDS / STATE STANDARDS / GOVERNMENT STANADARDS / TECHNICAL EXHIBITS

C6.1. Mandatory Standard. The following sections from the Forest Service Handbook, R3-Supplement 2409.17-2002-1 (effective 4/29/2002), Chapter 2 – Reforestation, are mandatory for execution of this contract.

Sections: 2.53, 2.61, 2.62 parts 1 and 2, 2.63, 2.66, 2.67, and 2.82 parts 1.c (2) and 2.

The handbook is available at: http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/field/r3/fsh/2409.17/ C6.2. Non-Mandatory Standard. The following references do not supersede direction given in C.5.1 or requirements set forth in this contract, but provide background and supporting information that may be useful to a prospective offeror.

C6.2.1. The Forest Service Handbook, R3-Supplement 2409.17-2002-1 (effective 4/29/2002), Chapter 2 – Reforestation exclusive of the sections listed in C.6.1. The handbook is available at the website specified in C.6.1.

C6.2.2. Tree handling and planting procedures that are acceptable are like those generally accepted for planting seedlings in forested conditions. There are a number of references describing the care and planting procedures. One reference is Reforestation Practices in Southwestern Oregon and Northern California (eds. Stephen D. Hobbs, Steven D. Tesch, Peyton W. Owston, Ronald E. Steward, John C. Tappeiner II, Gail E. Wells), Oregon State University Corvallis, Oregon. Specifically refer to Chapter 14, Seedling Handling and Planting by Robin Rose, pp. 330, 334-343.

SECTION C.7 – PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS SUMMARY (PRS)

C5.1 Orders and Delivery

C5.1.1 Tree Orders

C5.1.2 Planting Time

C5.1.3 Shelter materials

C5.1.4 Return Government Equipment -Contractor shall order trees at least 24 hours in advance of desired delivery.

-Contractor shall plant all trees ordered and delivered to planting unit by close of business on the day of delivery unless approved by COR

-Trees shall not be returned to the Government for cooler storage unless approved by COR

-If required for the task order, the Contractor shall notify the COR or designated Government inspector 24 hours in advance of the quantity needed.

-Contractor shall return unused Government supplies, unplanted trees if approved, all packaging materials, and wrapping materials to the delivery point at the end of each planting day

Must pass Government inspection of tree planting with 90% or greater.

Failure to meet tree planting specifications within five days may result in termination of right to proceed.

Tree Planting must pass performance standards based on QASP standards.

Non-attainment may result in with holding of payment.

Rework at contractor’s expense.

Poor performance rating. Refer to Section M.1 for explanation.

C5.2 Tree Handling and Care

C5.2 (continued)

-Contractor shall be responsible for the care of trees from the delivery point and throughout the time that trees are in the Contractor’s possession to assure they are not damaged or exposed to damaging conditions consistent with FSH 2409.17, 2.54 parts 4 through 7.

Trees not properly cared for may be considered wasted trees.

-Contractor shall not alter the tree seedlings (includes no root or top pruning.

-Contractor shall take precautions to keep roots moist during the planting operation

-Contractor shall be aware of environmental hazards which affect tree survival

-Contractor shall alter crew work schedules and tree handling practices to allow planting whenever possible

Non-attainment may result in withholding of payment.

Poor performance rating. Refer to Section M.1 for explanation.

C5.3 Tree Planting

C5.3.1 Satisfactorily Planted Tree

C5.3.2 Clearing and Scalping

C5.3.3 Shade

C5.3.4 Spacing

C5.3.5 Acceptable established trees and other planted trees

C5.3.6 Residual Trees

C5.3.7 Trees not meeting specifications.

-Trees shall be planted satisfactorily both above and below ground as defined in FSH 2409.17, 2.66 and 2.67. Trees shall be planted in moist soil, free of foreign debris, a drilled hole deep enough to accommodate the fully extended tree roots and shall meet all requirements of the contract. The planting hole shall be consistent with the description in FSH 2409.17, 2.63.

-Each planting spot shall be free of surface debris and competing vegetation consistent with FSH 2409.17, 2.62 parts 1 and 2.

-Minimum clearing distance is 20x20 inches and depth is 3 inches. Minimum scalp diameter and depth is stated in the Task Order and may differ from the diameter stated in FSH 2409.17, 2.

-Trees shall be planted in the best microsite available to mitigate problems associated with hot, dry aspects, consistent with FSH 2409.17, 2.61.

-Refer to the Task Order for shade type required for each unit consistent with definitions in C2.

-Each tree shall be 1 inch away from the shade material but not further than 1.5 inches -Trees shall be planted in the average spacing specified in the Task Order. For individual trees, the spacing may be varied as much as 25 percent in any direction to attain the best planting spot. The number of trees planted shall not be materially changed by the method of selecting planting spots.

-A tree shall not be planted in a manner that directly competes with an acceptable established tree (see definition C.2) or another planted tree. Refer to the Task Order for the species and size of acceptable established trees.

-Do not plant a tree closer than 25% of the specified average spacing distance to an acceptable established tree or other planted tree.

-No trees shall be planted twenty feet away from the drip line of healthy live ponderosa pine trees with 30% live full crown or greater and trees 5 inches DBH or greater).

-The Contractor is not obligated to plant trees that do not meet the specifications in C.3.3 and they shall be returned to the Government.

-If trees not meeting specifications are planted, they shall be planted satisfactorily.

If Contractor does not meet 90% planting quality or greater, reduced payment shall be made in accordance with Section G.

Contractor’s planting quality will be reflected in the performance evaluation as either a positive or negative incentive. Refer to Section M.1 for explanation.

-Shelters shall be installed so as not to damage the tree including skinning the bark, breaking the leader, damaging rots, or excessive bud stripping.

-Pull and remove previously installed tree shelters.

Shelters…