S-16-0013_Reforestation_Services_IDIQ.pdf

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

UNDER DPAS (15 CFR 350) 1 65 PAGES

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. SOLICITATION NO. 4. TYPE OF SOLICITATION 5. DATE ISSUED 6. REQUISITION/PURCHASE

AG-8173-S-16-0013

SEALED BID (IFB)

02/22/2016

NO.

NEGOTIATED (RFP)

7.ISSUED BY CODE 8173 8. ADDRESS OFFER TO (If other than Item 7)

USDA APACHE--SITGREAVES NATIONAL FORESTS SUPERVISOR’S OFFICE – AQM

PO BOX 640, 30 S CHIRICAHUA DRIVE

SPRINGERVILLE, ARIZONA 85938

SAME AS BOX NO. 7

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

SOLICITATION

9. Sealed offers in original and one copies for furnishing the supplies or serviced in Schedule will be received at the place specified in Item 8, or if handcarried, in the depository located in ROOM 106 until 4:00 PM local time MARCH 24, 2016 (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.

10. FOR INFORMATION A. NAME B. TELEPHONE NO. (Include area code) (NO COLLECT CALLS)

CALL: CONTRACTING OFFICER WARREN L. ABBOTT (928) 333-6344

11. TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

PART I - THE SCHEDULE PART II - CONTRACT CLAUSES

X A SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM X I CONTRACT CLAUSES

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

X C DESCRIPTION/SPECS./WORK/STATEMENT X J LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

D PACKAGING AND MARKING PART IV - REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

X E INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE X K REPRESENTATIVES, CERTIFICATIONS AND

X F DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE OTHER STATEMENTS OF OFFERORS

X G CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA X L INSTRS., CONDS., AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS

X H SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS X M EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

OFFER (Must be fully completed by offeror) NOTE: Item 12 does not apply if the solicitation includes the provisions at 52.214-16, Minimum Bid Acceptance Period.

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

13. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT 10 CALENDAR DAYS 20 CALENDAR DAYS 30 CALENDAR DAYS CALENDAR DAYS

(See Section I, Clause No. 52-232-8) % % % %

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

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

15A. NAME AND ADDRESS

OF OFFEROR

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

OFFER (Type or Print)

15B. TELEPHONE NO. (Include area code)

15C. CHECK IF REMITTANCE ADDRESS

17. SIGNATURE

18. OFFER DATE

IS DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE - ENTER

SUCH ADDRESS IN SCHEDULE.

AWARD (To be completed by Government)

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

22. AUTHORITY FOR USING OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN COMPLETION

23. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN ITEM

10 U.S.C. 2304 (c) ) 41 U.S.C. 142(c) ( ) (4 copies unless otherwise specified)

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

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

WARREN L. ABBOTT, CONTRACTING OFFICER

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

NSN 7540_01_152_8064 33-133 STANDARD FORM 33 (REV.4-85)

PREVIOUS EDITION NOT USABLE FAR (48 CFR) 53.214(c) Prescribed by GSA

AG-8173-S-16-0013

APACHE-SITGREAVES NFs

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PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B – SERVICES AND PRICES

B1 Schedule of Items:

Item No.

Description

Method of Measure

Estimated Quantity

Unit Price

Extended Amount

B.1.1

Tree Planting at 16x16 foot Spacing with 24 to 48 inch Site Preparation (scalping)

Acre

IDIQ

B.1.2

Tree Planting at 20x20 foot Spacing with 24 to 48 inch Site Preparation (scalping)

B.1.3

Tree Planting at Variable-Group Spacing with 24 inch Scalping (6x6 foot tree spacing on ½ to 1 acre sized sections as specified in Task Order, with other ½ to 1 acre sized sections left unplanted as specified,) See full descriptions in Section C and in Technical Definitions.

B.1.4

Tree Shelter Placement at 16x16 foot Spacing.

(Easy-install type shelters)

B.1.5

Tree Shelter Placement at 20x20 foot Spacing.

B.1.6 Tree Shelter Placement at Variable-Group Spacing per Task Order specification.

B.1.7

Tree Shelter Removal on prior-planted units or at a later date

B.1.8 Mobilization from a location within 35 mile radius of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.

Location Cost per

Mile

B.1.9 Contractor Retrieval of Trees from USFS pre-designated location & Transport to planting site.

Location Cost per

Mile

NOTES:

EACH TASK ORDER WILL CONTAIN A PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS COMMENSURATE WITH

WORKLOAD CONTAINED THEREIN.

SEE SECTION M FOR SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR EVALUATION PURPOSES.

ALL ACREAGES WILL BE MEASURED VIA GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSYTEM (GPSAND ARE DETERMINED ON A

HORIZONTAL PLANE WITHIN PLUS OR MINUS FIVE PERCENT.

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PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION C - PERFORMANCE STATEMENT OF WORK

SECTION C1 - GENERAL

The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests has a requirement for tree planting services to restore and reforest lands that were burned after wildfire, 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 dependent 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. Each Task Order objectives will have work locations by district, tree species to be planted, spacing required, if tree shelters are or are not required, and any other related specifications or needs by contract line item.

C1.1 Scope of Work

The Contractor shall furnish all expertise, supervision, labor, tools, equipment, supplies (except those designated as Government furnished), transportation, lodging, and incidentals to perform all work necessary for reforestation services on a national forest. All aspects of the work program shall be performed in an organized, systematic manner to assure services shall be performed over the entire unit.

The contractor shall be registered with the Department of Labor under the Migrant and Seasonal Workers Protection Act.

Some work items were burned in a recent wildfire. There are 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.

Task orders may include the use of Variable-Group Spacing to create patchier tree arrangements across planting units, with open (unplanted) interspaces left between closely spaced tree groups planted intentionally to mimic natural regeneration patterns in certain forest types. The USFS may pre-identify sections on the ground to be planted with this specified pattern, or may direct the Contractor to determine most plantable sections to plant and leave unplanted. In either case, units designated for this spacing method shall have approximately only half of the total unit acreage actually planted with trees overall.

C1.3. Location and Description.

The general locations of the project work areas (Task Orders) are within any or all Ranger Districts of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests Lands.

The boundaries for all areas treated will be marked with paint, or flagging, GPS Shapefiles or roads, and designated on project area maps with each Task Order. Specific treatment requirements and restrictions will be listed in Project/Unit Information for each Task Order. Task orders will be issued for areas within fire areas as needed and in areas or in openings created by timber related activities, or other deforestation events such as wind-throw or pest epidemic.

C1.3.1 Detailed Unit Information Task Orders will contain detailed unit information. Topography ranges from flat to approximately 50 percent slope. Elevation ranges from 6,000 feet to 10,500 feet above sea level.

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

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Type of tree seedlings to be planted may be bare root or containerized 1-0 and 2-0 stock, usually ponderosa pine and Douglas fir seedlings (roots are approximately seven inches long). Additional or other species (such as Southwestern white pine, Engelmann and/or blue spruce, white fir, etc.) and the species mix percentages will be specified in the detailed unit information for each task order.

The soils are varied and may be of a sandstone, limestone, volcanic, or conglomerate 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 plantability. Other locations will have varying amounts of plantability depending on the amount of rock cobble or small bedrock outcrops, competing vegetation, very large/heavy logs, or other factors present.

The planting periods will vary from Spring, Summer (monsoon rain season), and Fall depending on the District task order.

EXAMPLE Unit Description Table

Item Spacing Desired

Trees per

Acre

Task Remarks

B1.1 16x16 170

In Units D, E, F: Scalp ground at 48 x48 inches.

Plant 100% ponderosa pine seedlings, from PP

Seed Lot # xyz.

Spacing may vary somewhat on very rocky portion in NE corner of unit D.

Use hoes in rockiest portions. Several large logs exist that can be used for planted seedling shade and protection.

B1.2 20X20 109

In Units G, H, I: Scalp ground at 36 x 36 inches.

Plant alternating mix of ponderosa pine and

Douglas fir at a 2:1 ratio (2 PP to every 1 DF). Use Seed Lot #s 123 (PP) and 789 (DF).

Unit H is MSO timing restricted, see contract Section F.2.3.

Either auger and/or hoe methods are acceptable.

Live aspen over 12 inches tall are considered to be acceptable established trees.

B1.3 Variable-

Group Spacing

*Avg across entire unit

Scalp ground to minimum 24 x 24 inches. Plant 100% PP seedlings at 6 x6 foot spacing on plantable ½- acre sections, alternating with adjacent ½-acre sections left unplanted, in a checker-board pattern across entire unit, locations to be determined by

Contractor. Use PP Seed Lot # 456.

See contract Technical Definitions for ½-acre dimensions. *Approx. half of unit acreage will be planted with 1,210 trees per acre, and the other half left unplanted at 0 trees per acre.

Plant with augers only.

B1.4 16X16 NA

Place tree shelters on planted trees in Units D, E, F for unit completion, except where large logs were used for seedling shade/protection.

See Section J, Exhibit 7 for tree shelters that may be used and their installation.

B1.5 20x20 NA Place tree shelters on planted trees in Units G, H, I for unit completion

See Section J, Exhibit 7 for tree shelters that may be used and their installation.

B1.7 NA NA

Remove all tree shelters from Units A, B, C (planted

2 years prior to this task order)

Leave shelters stacked in COR’s pre-agreed location for FS pickup, and notify COR within 24 hours.

B1.9 NA NA

Contractor to Retrieve tree seedlings for Units F, G, H, and I from Alpine RD Tree Cooler daily as needed, and Transport to planting sites.

Tree cooler location, access, and security requirements to be provided in prework meeting. Nearest unit is

0.8 mile from cooler and farthest is

17.6 miles.

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C1.3.2 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 in section J. After initial clearing of the access roads by the Government, the Contractor shall clear any subsequent falling of trees that block roads needed to access units.

C1.3.2.2. 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.

C1.3.2.3. Air Transport or SurveilanceSurveillance 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. The contractor representative and alternates(s) must be able to read, write, speak, and understand intermediate level English.

SECTION C2 – DEFINITIONS

C2.1 Standard Definitions

C2.1.1 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.

C2.1.2 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.

C2.1.3 Best Value. One criterion used for selecting a service contractor for award, based on comparison of the service price offered, with the quality of service offered.

C2.1.4 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.

C2.1.5 Calendar Days. Every day shown on the calendar, Sundays and holidays included.

C2.1.6 Contract Time. See Period of Performance definition.

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C2.1.7 Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). A Government person appointed by the contracting officer (CO) to help the CO with the contract administration and surveillance. 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. A Government person appointed by the COR to help the COR with the contract administration and surveillance. The duties and responsibilities of a Government Inspector are defined in the letter of designation by the COR.

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.

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C2.2.3 Acre, One Acre. One full acre contains 43,560 square feet, and measures 208.71 feet on each square side. One acre can also be measured as a 117.8 foot radius circle. Where Contractor is required to determine acres for planting within a unit for Variable-Group spacing, a + or – 8 foot variance in the one acre measurement is permissible.

C2.2.4 Animal Damage Control (ADC). Methods for protecting the seedlings from animal damage, particularly big game.

May include vexar tubing or flexible netting.

C2.2.5 Bole. The trunk or stem of a tree.

C2.2.6 Tree Shelter. Materials not found on the planting site used to shelter the tree.

C2.2.7 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.

C2.2.8 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.

C2.2.9 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.

C2.2.10 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.

C2.2.11 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.

C2.2.12 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.

C2.2.13 Dead Trees. Trees with no live needles or limbs.

C2.2.14 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.

C2.2.15 Drip line. The line extending vertically from the exterior edge of a tree’s live crown to the ground.

C2.2.16 Elevation. The elevation recorded in feet above sea level for the majority of the site.

C2.2.17 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.

C2.2.18 Flagging Color Designations. The colors of flagging to be used by the Forest Service and the Contractor will be determined prior to operations.

C2.2.19 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.

C2.2.20 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.

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C2.2.1 Half-Acre (1/2-Acre). One half of an acre contains 21,780 square feet, and measures 147.58 feet on each square side. A half-acre can also be measured as an 83.3 foot radius circle. Where Contractor is required to determine half-acres for planting within a unit for Variable-Group spacing, a + or – 4 foot variance in the half-acre measurement is permissible.

C2.2.22 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.

C2.2.23 Lateral Roots. The horizontal roots extending from the main vertical (tap) root.

C2.2.24 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.

C2.2.25 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.

C2.2.26 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.

C2.2.27 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 5 for copy of inspection form and reference tables.

C2.2.28 Project Area. A number of geographically grouped units within the analysis area to form a single Task Order.

C2.2.29 Project Information. A document included with the task order with specific information about the project area, including treatment acres and road use limitations.

C2.2.30 Residual tree. Live trees remaining in the unit after the harvest or fire activity.

C2.2.31 Root length. The root length measured from the original ground line to the end of the main vertical or tap root.

C2.2.32 Satisfactory -- 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.

C2.2.33 Scalping. The removal of surface litter and live vegetation including roots to expose mineral soil and reduce competition from existing vegetation. The diameter of the scalp and the minimum depth of the scalp is specified in the Detailed Information Chart.

C2.2.34 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 6 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

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P a g e | 9 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.

C2.2.35 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.

C2.2.36 Snag. Any standing or leaning dead tree taller than 6 feet.

C2.2.37 Stream course. The area along a stream with riparian vegetation and other riparian characteristics.

C2.2.38 Top height. The length from the original ground line to the top of the terminal leader; does not include needles extending above the leader.

C2.2.39 Transportable shade. Natural material such as wood debris that can be moved to the planting spot to shade the tree from the sun.

C2.2.40 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.

C2.2.41 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.

C2.2.42 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.

C2.2.43 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.

C2.2.44 Variable-Group Spacing. Use 6 foot x 6 foot spacing on planted sections alternating with unplanted sections across an entire unit. Planted sections will range from ½-acre to 1 acre in size as specified in the task order. At this spacing an average of 1,210 trees per acre should be planted correctly on each acre planted. When alternating unplanted acres are included for the unit, an average of 605 trees per acre should occur across the entire unit. Unless otherwise specified in the task order, Contractor will determine the most plantable sections and sets the 1-acre or ½-acre boundaries for the planting crew, to plant half of total unit acreage in an alternating (checker-board) pattern. The task order may specify certain portions of a unit where planting will occur on several adjacent acres, such as on one side of a ridge-slope. Overall, approximately only half of the unit total acreage will be planted. Only planted sections will be inspected using the Planting

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P a g e | 10 and Inspection Sheet (Exhibit 6), while unplanted sections will be inspected visually for their placement, size, and number.

Units to plant in this bid item will be specified in individual task orders, with specific planting requirements also included, such as auger and/or hoe methods. Clarifications for such units will be covered thoroughly in the prework meeting (FS intent of this bid item: Create patchier tree arrangements with open interspaces between tight tree groups, to more closely mimic natural regeneration patterns in certain forest types. The unplanted acres are expected to randomly fill in with natural tree regeneration over time, and/or be planted some years later, for an uneven-aged forest structure with group arrangement across the unit.)

C2.2.45 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.

C2.2.46 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.

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SECTION C3 – GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY, MATERIALS, SERVICES

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 seedling container blocks. The contractor shall return empty 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.

Item Description Where, When, How

3.1. Project Maps Maps of planting units with access roads, access point(s), and delivery point(s) identified.

Provided in Section J, Exhibits

3.2. Access Roads, and Closed Road/ATV Permits if needed

The Government will provide access to the access point(s).

The Government will initially clear down trees from the access roads. Access roads are accessible by two-wheel drive vehicle equipped for mountain driving.

Needed permit provided at Prework meeting by the District.

3.3. Trees- planting

stock

Container Grown Trees: Length of container plug will range from 6 to 9 inches. Top heights range from 3 to 10 inches. At least 90% of the trees will meet these specifications. Species may include PP, DF, SWP, ES, BS, or other conifers as specified in the Task Order.

Bare Root Grown Trees: In the event bare root stock is used, seedling specifications will be stated in the Task Order.

Provided on written order 48 hours in advance of delivery.

Task Order to specify when, where, etc.

3.4. Shelter

materials

Tree Shelters Task Order Item

3.5 Planting

Inspection Sheet

Form R3-2470-9. Quantity necessary to inspect the contract.

[OR one copy provided, to be duplicated by Contractor]

Provided at Prework meeting.

Sample provided in Section J, Exhibits

3.6 Wages Section J, Exhibits

3.7 Campsite, if

requested.

See Section C.5.4.4 and Section H. Permit issued by District within 5 working days advance request.

3.8 USFS Silvicultural

Practices Handbook, FSH 2409.17

Southwestern Regional Issuances of Handbook Reforestation - Regional Supplement Sections cited in this contract

Available at following weblink:

http://www.fs.fed.us/cgi-bin/Directives/get_dirs/fsh?240 9.17 http://www.fs.fed.us/cgi-bin/Directives/get_dirs/fsh?2409.17

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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.

C4.2. Fire Tool box. The contractor shall provide a fire toolbox as described in Section J if required. This is dependent upon timing of tree planting.

C4.3. Resource Protection. The Contractor shall exercise extreme care to prevent damage to existing facilities, developments and resources in all aspects of the contract work. See Sections H.6.1. and J.

C4.4. On-Site Representative. Contractor shall provide an on-site representative that is conversant and literate in the English language whenever work is in progress.

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.

C5.1.1 Planting Time. The Contractor shall plant all trees ordered and delivered to the planting unit within 24 hours 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.

C5.1.2. 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 throughout the entire 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 transported by Contractor shall be covered or protected from direct winds while in transit. 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 transport and planting operations.

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).

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C5.3. Tree Planting

C5.3.1. Satisfactory -- 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 24 inches (diameter) to a maximum of 48 inches (diameter) and minimum depth is 3 inches. The minimum scalp diameter and depth will be stated in the Task Order.

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. Where Variable-Group spacing is used, only planted sections will be inspected using the Planting and Inspection Sheet (Exhibit 6), while unplanted sections will be inspected visually for their placement, size, and number.

When Variable-Group spacing is used, at least half of the total unit acreage must be planted unless approved otherwise in writing by the COR.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.

C5.3.8. Multiple trees planted in one hole. Multiple trees will not be planted in one hole. Contractor will make sure one tree is being planted per hole.

C5.4 Shelter Installation – 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 6.

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.

C5.5 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.

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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. Camping and Worksite Plan. The Contractor shall prepare a Camping and/or Worksite Plan and operate in a manner that will protect the environmental resources and the public facilities. The conditions will be consistent with the requirements of Section H, Section I, and supplementary attachments in Section J.

C5.5.5. 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.

C5.5.6. 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.

C5.5.7 FAR 52.222-54 – EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION (OCT 2015)

(a) Definitions. As used in this clause— “Commercially available off-the-shelf (COTS) item”—

(1) Means any item of supply that is—

(i) A commercial item (as defined in paragraph (1) of the definition at 2.101);

(ii) Sold in substantial quantities in the commercial marketplace; and

(iii) Offered to the Government, without modification, in the same form in which it is sold in the commercial marketplace; and

(2) Does not include bulk cargo, as defined in 46 U.S.C. 40102(4) such as agricultural products and petroleum products.

Per 46 CFR 525.1(c)(2), “bulk cargo” means cargo that is loaded and carried in bulk onboard ship without mark or count, in a loose unpackaged form, having homogenous characteristics. Bulk cargo loaded into intermodal equipment, except LASH or Seabee barges, is subject to mark and count and, therefore, ceases to be bulk cargo.

“Employee assigned to the contract” means an employee who was hired after November 6, 1986 (after November 27, 2009, in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands), who is directly performing work, in the United States, under a contract that is required to include the clause prescribed at 22.1803. An employee is not considered to be directly performing work under a contract if the employee—

(1) Normally performs support work, such as indirect or overhead functions; and

(2) Does not perform any substantial duties applicable to the contract.

“Subcontract” means any contract, as defined in 2.101, entered into by a subcontractor to furnish supplies or services for performance of a prime contract or a subcontract. It includes but is not limited to purchase orders, and changes and modifications to purchase orders.

“Subcontractor” means any supplier, distributor, vendor, or firm that furnishes supplies or services to or for a prime Contractor or another subcontractor.

“United States,” as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(38), means the 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

(b) Enrollment and verification requirements.

(1) If the Contractor is not enrolled as a Federal Contractor in E-Verify at time of contract award, the Contractor shall—

(i) Enroll. Enroll as a Federal Contractor in the E-Verify program within 30 calendar days of contract award;

(ii) Verify all new employees. Within 90 calendar days of enrollment in the E-Verify program, begin to use E- Verify to initiate verification of employment eligibility of all new hires of the Contractor, who are working in the United States, whether or not assigned to the contract, within 3 business days after the date of hire (but see paragraph (b)(3) of this section); and

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(iii) Verify employees assigned to the contract. For each employee assigned to the contract, initiate verification within 90 calendar days after date of enrollment or within 30 calendar days of the employee’s assignment to the contract, whichever date is later (but see paragraph (b)(4) of this section).

(2) If the Contractor is enrolled as a Federal Contractor in E-Verify at time of contract award, the Contractor shall E- Verify to initiate verification of employment eligibility of—

(i) All new employees.

(A) Enrolled 90 calendar days or more. The Contractor shall initiate verification of all new hires of the Contractor, who are working in the United States, whether or not assigned to the contract within 3 business days after the date of hire (but see paragraph (b)(3) of this section); or

(B) Enrolled less than 90 calendar days. Within 90 calendar days after enrollment as a Federal Contractor in E-Verify, the Contractor shall initiate verification of all new hires of the Contractor, who are working in the United States, whether or not assigned to the contract, within 3 business days after the date of hire (but see paragraph (b)(3) of this section ); or

(ii) Employees assigned to the contract. For each employee assigned to the contract, the Contractor shall initiate verification within 90 calendar days after date of contract award or within 30 days after assignment to the contract, whichever date is later (but see paragraph (b)(4) of this section).

(3) If the Contractor is an institution of higher education (as defined at 20 U.S.C. 1001(a)); a State or local government or the government of a Federally recognized Indian tribe; or a surety performing under a takeover agreement entered into with a Federal agency pursuant to a performance bond, the Contractor may choose to verify only employees assigned to the contract, whether existing employees or new hires. The Contractor shall follow the applicable verification requirements at (b)(1) or (b)(2), respectively, except that any requirement for verification of new employees applies only to new employees assigned to the contract.

(4) Option to verify employment eligibility of all employees. The Contractor may elect to verify all existing employees hired after November 6, 1986 (after November 27, 2009, in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands), rather than just those employees assigned to the contract. The Contractor shall initiate verification for each existing employee working in the United States who was hired after November 6, 1986 (after November 27, 2009, in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands), within 180 calendar days of—

(i) Enrollment in the E-Verify program; or

(ii)…