RFPPARTSATHRUC.pdf

SOLICITATION FORMS

(FOR OFFEROR'S USE IN SUBMITTING THE OFFER)

(Reference FSH 6309.31)

NOTE: Attached forms must be completed and submitted intact.

Issuing Office:

Contracting Officer U.S. Department of Agriculture/Forest Service

SW Idaho/Nevada Acquisition Center c/o Spring Mountains National Recreation Area 4701 N. Torrey Pines Drive Las Vegas, NV 89130

**NOTICE TO OFFEROR**

Offers Are Solicited For:

TREE PLANTING AND STAND

IMPROVEMENT SERVICES

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Carson and Bridgeport Ranger Districts Carson City NV.

Print or type your name, address, Solicitation No., time, and date for receipt of offers in the UPPER left corner of the envelope containing your offer.

Solicitation No. RFP AG-9360-S-08-0008

IMPORTANT - NOTICE TO OFFEROR

1. Information and instructions and documents for submission of offers are contained in this packet. It contains only Part I, Sections A and B, and Part IV. ALL DOCUMENTS IN THIS

RETURN COPY SHOULD BE COMPLETED AND RETURNED INTACT AS YOUR OFFER.

The Offeror Reference copy contains the complete solicitation and should be retained by the offeror for reference.

2. Before mailing your offer, please recheck the following:

(a) Have you included both a business and a technical proposal (See Instructions to Offerors)

(b) Does your offer set forth full, accurate, and complete information as required by this solicitation?

(c) Ensured your registered in CCR (Centralized Contractor Registration)?

(d) Provided your DUNS No., Tax ID or Vendor ID Number and E-Mail Address?

(c) Have you rechecked your figures, including calculations on your work sheets?

(d) Have you completed and signed all required documents?

Previous edition of this form is obsolete. FS-6300-44 (11/79)

Microsoft Word 2000

SEE ADDENDUMIS CHECKED

CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

CODE

FACILITYCODE

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER

OFFEROR

93D5

LAS VEGAS NV 89130

4701 NORTH TORREY PINES DRIVE

SPRING MOUNTAINS NATL REC AREA

USDA FS HUMBOLDTTOIYABE NF

9387 CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BYCODE

X

X

X

115310

SIZE STANDARD:

100.00% FOR:SET ASIDE:UNRESTRICTED OR

93D5

RFPIFB

10. THIS ACQUISITION ISCODE

RFQ

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

13b. RATING

NAICS:

SMALL BUSINESS

03/25/2008 1700 PT

02/25/2008

702-839-5575STEVE ROEHR

(No collect calls)

INFORMATION CALL:

FOR SOLICITATION 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL TIMEb. TELEPHONE NUMBER a. NAME

4. ORDER NUMBER3. AWARD/ 6. SOLICITATION

AG-9360-S-08-0008

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEM 1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE OF

1 2155100OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

TELEPHONE NO.

17a. CONTRACTOR/

CARSON CITY NV 89701

1536 S CARSON STREET

CARSON RANGER DISTRICT

USDA FOREST SERVICE

15. DELIVER TO

LAS VEGAS NV 89130

4701 NORTH TORREY PINES DRIVE

SPRING MOUNTAINS NATL REC AREA

9. ISSUED BY

7.

2. CONTRACT NO.

EFFECTIVE DATE

$6.50

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW

ISSUE DATE

DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

11.

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13a.

SERVICE-DISABLED VETERAN-

OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

EMERGING SMALL

BUSINESS

8(A)

USDA FS HUMBOLDTTOIYABE NF

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

Carson IDIQ Contract 2008 Tree and Shrub Planting Delivery: 02/11/2008

001 Carson IDIQ Contract 2008 Tree and Shrub Planting 248 AC

- See Schedule B. Fill in Pricing Blocks there.

When preparing proposals, send one copy of the technical proposal ONLY - no pricing information

- to Shelly Schaff at the Carson Ranger District.

ALSO, send 1 copy each of the technical AND the pricing proposal to the Contracting Officer, (Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

X

XX

DATED

STEVE ROEHR

. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION (BLOCK 5),

INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE SET FORTH

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DELIVER

ARE

ARE

31c. DATE SIGNED

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA

31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY ADDITIONAL

SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED HEREIN.

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDEND

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

OFFER

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 3/2005)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT REF.

32e. MAILING ADDRESS OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32c. DATE 32b. SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

ACCEPTED, AND CONFORMS TO THE CONTRACT, EXCEPT AS

NOTED:

32a. QUANTITY IN COLUMN 21 HAS BEEN

RECEIVED INSPECTED

40. PAID BY39. S/R VOUCHER NUMBER38. S/R ACCOUNT NUMBER

37. CHECK NUMBER

FINALPARTIAL

36. PAYMENT

FINALPARTIAL

35. AMOUNT VERIFIED

CORRECT FOR

34. VOUCHER NUMBER33. SHIP NUMBER

COMPLETE

32g. E-MAIL OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

42d. TOTAL CONTAINERS42c. DATE REC'D (YY/MM/DD)

42b. RECEIVED AT (Location)

42a. RECEIVED BY (Print)

41c. DATE41b. SIGNATURE AND TITLE OF CERTIFYING OFFICER

41a. I CERTIFY THIS ACCOUNT IS CORRECT AND PROPER FOR PAYMENT

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 3/2005) BACK

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

USDA, USFS; SW Idaho/Nevada Acquisition Center c/o; Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, 4701 N. Torrey Pines Drive; Las Vegas, NV 89130.

Product/Service Code: R707

Product/Service Description: CONTRACT, PROCUREMENT, AND ACQUISITION SUPPORT SERVICES

32f. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

22 of

SECTION B

SCHEDULE OF PRICES

PRICING INFORMATION

PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B – SCHEDULE OF SERVICES AND PRICES

TREE PLANTING AND STAND IMPROVEMENT SERVICES

B.1. SCHEDULE OF ITEMS

BASE YEAR (April **, 2008 through April **, 2009

Work Item

Sub item / Description

Stems per acre Spacing

Unit of Measure

BASE

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

ESTIMATED

quantities for evaluation purposes.

See M.1

C.4.1

Walk-in > 1000 ft (C.4.1)

Per 1000 ft./per Acre

$ ________ 1000 ft.

C.4.2. Category 1-Tree Planting and Thinning (C.4.2)

All req’d *

1.1 Tree Planting

Consists of approximately less than (<) 300 stems/ac planting on a 12’x 12’ spacing with 25% variable.

Acres

300 acres

1.2 Tree Planting with Shelter

Installation Consists of installing tree shelters in areas where no stationary micro-site is available.

1.3 Shrub Planting

Consists of approximately 701- 1500 stems/ac planting on a 12’x 12’ spacing with 25% variable.

150 acres

All req’d * Tree Handling and Care Included with planting

NSP

All req’d * Scalping to mineral soil 12”x12”

Included

1.1 Incidental Thinning

than (<) 300 stems/ac thinning on a 12’x 12’ to 20’x 20’ spacing.

200 acres

1.3 Medium Thinning

Consists of approximately 701- 1500 stems/ac thinning on a 12’x 12’ to 20’x 20’ spacing.

250 acres

Heavy Thinning Consists of approximately 1501- 2500 stems/ac thinning on an 8’x 8’ to 20’ x 20’ spacing.

450 acres

1.5 Very Heavy Thinning

Consists of approximately 2501 + stems/ac thinning on an 8’x 8’ to 10’x 10’.

C.4.5 Category 3- Tree Release/Slashing Treatment Areas (C. 4.5)

Light Release/Slashing than (<) 700 stems/ac with a DBH limit of 8”

3.2 Medium Release/Slashing

Consists of approximately 700- 1200 stems/ac with a DBH limit of 8”

3.3 Heavy Release/Slashing

Consists of approximately 1201- 2500 stems/ac with a DBH limit of

3.4 Very Heavy

Release/Slashing Consists of approximately 2500+ stems/ac with a DBH limit of 8”

C.4.6. Slash Treatment

Acre NSP NSP NSP NSP NSP

C.4.6.5 Category 4 Hand piling (C.4.6.5)

Hand piling (Light) Approximately <10 piles/ac

Approximately 10-20 piles/ac

Hand piling (Medium) Approximately 20-30 piles/ac

Hand piling (Very Heavy) Approximately 30+ piles/ac

C.4.6.6. Pile Covering (C.4.6.6.)

(this price per acre is paid in addition to any price paid for piling under C.4.6.5)

C.4.11. Contractor Insp. System Acre NSP NSP NSP NSP NSP

C.4.11.

Quality Control

Each

C.4.12.

Work Plan & Schedule

C.4.13.

Camping/Worksite plan

C.4.14. Communications

C.4.15. On-site Representative NSP NSP

NSP NSP

• NSP Not Separately Priced

YEAR 2 (OPTIONAL TO THE GOVERNMENT) (April **, 2009 through April **, 2010

BASE

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

ESTIMATED

quantities for evaluation than (<) 300 stems/ac planting on

Consists of installing tree shelters

Consists of approximately 701-

Included

12”x12”

Included

Consists of approximately 701-

Consists of approximately 1501-

Contractor Insp. System

NSP Not Separately Priced

YEAR 3 (OPTIONAL TO THE GOVERNMENT) (April **, 2010 through April **, 2011)

BASE

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

ESTIMATED

quantities for evaluation than (<) 300 stems/ac planting on

Consists of installing tree shelters

Consists of approximately 701-

Included

12”x12”

Included

Consists of approximately 701-

Consists of approximately 1501-

YEAR 4 (OPTIONAL TO THE GOVERNMENT) (April **, 2011 through April **, 2012)

BASE

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

ESTIMATED

quantities for evaluation than (<) 300 stems/ac planting on

Consists of installing tree shelters

Consists of approximately 701-

Included

12”x12”

Included

Consists of approximately 701-

Consists of approximately 1501-

YEAR 5 (OPTIONAL TO THE GOVERNMENT) (April **, 2012 through April **, 2013)

BASE

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

OPTION

YEAR

Unit Price

ESTIMATED

quantities for evaluation than (<) 300 stems/ac planting on

Consists of installing tree shelters

Consists of approximately 701-

Included

12”x12”

Included

Consists of approximately 701-

Consists of approximately 1501-

ADDENDA TO SECTION B, SCHEDULE OR COSTS/PRICES:

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF TSI UNITS AND COST CATEGORIES

CATEGORIES: The above cost categories are substituted for the individual listing of each planting or thinning unit. Stands to be treated will be classified by these categories defined by stocking levels that are based on a combination of examinations and visual estimates of the stand uniformity.

Stocking levels displays stems per acre. This is the total amount of trees per acre and the Silvicultural Summary Prescription will identify the appropriate post-treatment stocking levels based on spacing requirements.

Spacing and diameter limits used within these categories will be within the range shown the Schedule of Items and specified in the detailed prescriptions.

SECTION C

DESCRIPTIONS,

STATEMENT OF WORK

SECTION C – SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT(S) OF WORK

INTRODUCTION

Background

Location and Description The project area is located on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Carson and Bridgeport Ranger Districts. There are snags and burned trees present in the treatment units and a potential for blowdown or falling debris especially in windy conditions.

The Forest Service is in need of tree planting services to restore and reforest lands burned over after wildfire. The purpose of this contract is to secure containerized 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, care, and planting techniques during a period of time when environmental conditions are most favorable to insure tree survival. The installation of shade tubes is included in this contract.

The Forest Service is also in need of pre-commercial tree thinning and stand improvement activities to reduce tree densities and, by the deliberate selection of leave trees, improve the overall health and condition of the stand based on the prescribed objectives. Tree selection and cutting of undesirable or excess trees will provide space for the leave trees to grow and develop, reduce the incidence of insect and diseases that affect growth, and undesirable tree qualities. The goal of this project is to thin dense stands of Jeffrey Pine regeneration and release the leave trees from brush competition.

Aspen stands recovering after a wild land fire will also be enhanced by removing conifers from within and around the stand, allowing the aspen sprouts to increase in number, size and acreage. In some areas brush reduction activities will be used to reduce fire danger.

C.1.2. Scope of Contract

C.1.2.1. This contract is a Performance Based, firm-fixed price contract.

C.1.2.2. The performance period for planting will be from approximately April 1st to April 14st, however the start date can vary from March 1st to May 1st. Thinning and fuels treatments will take place in the fall to reduce fire danger.

Planting The solicitation is for tree planting services on Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Land, Carson and Bridgeport Ranger Districts. The Contractor shall furnish all labor, equipment, supervision, transportation, supplies (except those designated as Government furnished), and incidentals to perform all work necessary on the areas specified in the contract. The contract includes tree handling, scalping, planting, and shading to provide the seedlings with the greatest chance of survival. Tree handling includes the transportation and temperature control of the seedling during the planting period. All aspects of the work program shall be performed in an organized, systematic manner to assure services shall be performed over the entire unit.

C.4.1.1. Road Access. The Contractor may access the units from forest roads indicated on project maps. Some units require the Contractor to walk; access is to the access point noted on project map. 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.

C.4.1.1.1. Tree transport within unit. The Contractor may transport trees from the access point to portions of the unit at the Contractor’s discretion consistent with any restrictions on motorized or other vehicle type specified in the contract and with COR approval.

C.4.1.2. Walk-in units. These units cannot be accessed from open forest roads. The Contractor shall transport trees from the access point to the unit using the method of his/her choice consistent with restrictions on motorized vehicles or other transport method noted on the Detailed Information Chart.

C.4.1.3. Air Transport. Air Operations are not allowed without prior approval.

C.4.1.4. Locked gates. In cases where units are behind locked gates, the Contractor shall close and lock gates after entering or exiting each gate and will be subject to all other restrictions of administrative use. The Contractor is permitted to drive from the locked gate to the unit access point with only the minimum number of vehicles necessary for efficient transport of the crew. No firearms are permitted behind locked gates.

C.4.1.5. Tree Orders and delivery. The Contractor shall order trees at least 24 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.

C.4.1.5.1. Not Applicable.

C.4.1.5.2. 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.

C.4.1.6. Artificial Shade Orders and delivery. The Contractor shall order materials for installing artificial shade at least 24 hours in advance of desired delivery. The delivery point will be at the Carson District office.

C.4.1.7. 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. Gate locks shall be returned after completion of the planting unit accessed by the gated road.

C.4.2. Tree Handling and Care

C.4.2.1. 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 properly cared for and not damaged or exposed to damaging conditions consistent with FSH 2409.17, 2.53 parts 6 and 7, provided in Section J. Trees not properly cared for may be considered wasted trees.

C.4.2.1.1. Augers shall be lubricated with vegetable oils or similar substances not injurious to trees.

C.4.2.2. Contractor shall not alter the trees (includes no root or top pruning).

C.4.2.3. Contractor shall take precautions to keep roots moist and cool during the planting operation. Contractor shall provide planting bags that shall not retain heat, shall have a minimum depth of 15 inches, and shall be free of defects.

Insulated planting bags or planting bags with insulated inserts are required.

C.4.2.4. 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) and provided in Section J.

C.4.2.5. The Contractor shall maintain the internal box temperature of tree boxes that are in possession of the Contractor at or below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Trees that reach 46 degrees Fahrenheit and above at any time will be considered wasted trees.

C.4.4. Tree Planting

C.4.4.1. Satisfactorily Planted Tree. 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, and in a hole, deep enough to accommodate the fully extended tree roots, and shall meet all requirements of the contract. The open-hole method shall be used as described in FSH 2409.17, 2.63. FSH references are provided in Section J.

C.4.4.2. 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 and scalping distances and the maximum clearing and scalping depths are stated in the Detailed Information Chart, Included with task order. The distances may differ from those stated in FSH 2409.17, 2.62.

C.4.4.3. Shade. Trees shall be planted in the best micro-site available to mitigate problems associated with hot dry climate and high insulation, consistent with FSH 2409.17, 2.61, part 2 and 3a. (Provided in Section J). Each tree shall be as close to the shade material as possible.

C.4.4.3.1. Planted trees shall be shaded consistent with the shade requirement identified in the Detailed Information Chart, Included with task order.

C.4.4.3.2. Microsite Each tree shall be shaded at the ground level from the afternoon sun (approximately 2-4 pm), except on east facing slopes when the tree shall be shaded from the morning sun (on the downhill side). On south and west slopes, trees must be planted on the north to east side of the stationary shade to protect the seedling from the afternoon sun. Although it is beneficial to shade the entire crown of the seedling, the most critical area needing shade is the ground line.

C.4.4.3.3. Not Applicable

C.4.4.4. Protection-only. Trees shall be planted in the best micro-site possible to mitigate dry conditions. Protect tree consistent with FSH 2409.17, 2.61. (Section J)

C.4.4.4.1. Planted trees shall be protected consistent with the protection requirement identified in the Detailed Information Chart, Included with task order. Each tree shall be planted as close to the stump, log or other suitable protection material as possible.

C.4.4.5. Spacing. Trees shall be planted to achieve the average spacing specified in the Detailed Information Chart. It is expected that an irregular distribution will result as planters avoid acceptable established trees, rock or shallow soils and seek planting spots in the best micro-sites and soil conditions. For individual trees, the spacing may be varied as much as 50 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.

C.4.4.6. Acceptable established trees and other planted trees. A tree shall not be planted in direct competition with an acceptable established live tree or another planted tree. Therefore, do not plant a tree closer than 6 feet to an acceptable established live tree or other planted tree.

C.4.4.7. Residual trees. Trees shall not be planted within the immediate influence of established larger live trees in the unit, therefore, do not plant within the drip line of a live residual tree that is 4 feet or greater in height.

C.4.4.8. Species Mix. Where a mixture of species is required, the Contractor shall distribute the variety of species over the entire unit except when otherwise noted on Detailed Information Chart. When there is a geographic preference for certain species the Contractor shall discuss the requirements for species placement with the COR before the unit is planted.

C.4.4.9. 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.

C.4.4.9.1. In no cases shall bare root trees with root systems less than 8 inches long, and fewer than 3 roots (vertical or lateral) be planted. The Contractor shall return them to the Government.

C.4.5. Artificial Shade installation

C.4.5.1. Shade tubes shall be installed concurrent with planting to protect trees from the afternoon sun, approximately 2 to 4 pm. Installation shall be consistent with requirements stated or illustrated in Section J. Shade tubes will not be required on North slopes.

C.4.5.1.1. Shade tubes shall be installed so as not to damage the tree including skinning the bark, breaking the leader, damaging roots or excessive bud stripping.

C.4.5.1.2. Shade tubes shall be installed only on trees not protected by stationary material.

C.4.5.2. Not Applicable

C.4.6. Animal Damage Control (ADC) installation – Not Applicable.

C.4.6.1. Not Applicable

C.4.6.1.1. Not Applicable

C.4.6.1.2. Not Applicable

C.4.7. Quality Control. 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.

C.4.8.Work Plan and Schedule - Not Applicable

C.4.9. Camping and Worksite Conditions. 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.

C.4.10. 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.

C.4.11. On-site Representative. The Contractor’s on-site representative shall be fully conversant and literate in the English language and shall be in the work area whenever work is in progress. Refer to F.3. Superintendence by the Contractor. The Contractor’s Inspector shall also be conversant and literate in the English language.

C.4.12. Crew Safety. The Contractor shall consider and address crew safety and provide a Safety Plan consistent with FAR 52.236.13 recognizing that all items are in areas of snags and fire burned trees.

C. 5. STANDARDS

C.5.1. Mandatory Standard. The following sections from the Forest Service Handbook, R4-Supplement 2409.17-2002-1 (effective 4/29/2002), Chapter 2 – Reforestation, are mandatory for execution of this contract.

Sections: 2.53 parts 3, 5-8; 2.61; 2.62 parts 1 and 2; 2.63; 2.66; 2.67;and 2.82 parts 1.c. and 2.

Sections mandatory for contract execution are provided in Section J, Exhibit 07 as guidelines; the complete handbook is available at: www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/field/r4/fsh/2409.17/ click on 2409.17_2.01-2.5.doc and 2409.17_2.6—2.9.doc.

C.5.2. 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.

C.5.2.1. The Forest Service Handbook, R4-Supplement 2409.17-2002-1 (effective 4/29/2002), Chapter 2 – Reforestation exclusive of the sections listed in C.5.1.

The handbook is available at the website specified in C.5.1.

C.5.2.2. 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, and 334-343.

Thinning The solicitation is also for tree thinning, and stands improvement activities on the Carson and Bridgeport Ranger Districts, Humboldt - Toiyabe National Forest Land. This contract requires tree thinning and release, slash treatment and related work in compliance with its terms, specifications, and provisions. The Contractor shall furnish all labor, equipment, supervision, transportation, supplies (except those designated as Government furnished), and incidentals to perform all work necessary on the areas specified. All aspects of the work program shall be performed in an organized, systematic manner to assure services will be performed over the entire unit.

a. Leave Tree Description Leave tree selection: Leave trees shall generally be those of the tallest height, largest crown, and straightest stems that are free of damage due to insects, disease, physical, or mechanical causes. The contractor shall select leave trees in the following priorities:

1. Leave all conifer trees which exceed specified maximum dbh cut limit.

2. Select additional leave trees from healthy undamaged conifers under specified maximum dbh cut limit as necessary to achieve average spacing specified. Spacing may be varied up to 25 percent to select the most desirable tree.

However, spacing control, using the original guides, shall be maintained whenever possible. The number of trees per acre shall not be materially increased of decreased.

3. If no healthy undamaged tree exists at the required spacing interval, leave tree with minor damage.

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/field/r4/fsh/2409.17/

Within categories 2 through 3 above, selection will be made in the following priority order:

1. The tallest tree.

2. The order of preference by species for leave trees is sugar pine, Jeffrey pine, incense-cedar, and White fir.

3. Should a conflict arise between spacing and selection of the tallest, best – formed leave tree, the tallest, best – formed leave tree shall take precedence over spacing; however, the number of trees per acre shall not be materially increased or decreased.

b. Tree Species not to be cut Aspen species shall not be cut. When working threw an Aspen Grove, cut all other trees from the grove and drag them 50 feet away from the edge of the Aspen Grove. Cut all trees 50 feet from the edge of the Aspen groves.

c. Snag Felling Snags need not be cut unless otherwise specified. However, if the contractor elects to fall any snags for safety they shall be cut prior to selecting leave trees within a distance equal to the height of the snag in the direction of fall.

d. Cut Tree Specifications All trees other than leave trees shall be cut below the lowest live limb, except when prevented by natural obstacles. All live limbs below the cutting point shall be removed. Trees shall be completely severed from the stump. Stump height shall not exceed 4 inches above ground level or 4 inches above natural obstacles.

Trees with dead and/or broken tops, mechanical damage (except snow damage), less than 40% crown ratio, suppressed and/or showing evidence of insect attack, or leaning more than 15 degrees shall be removed.

e. Release Specifications All living brush species (including mountain mahogany) within four feet horizontal distance of a leave tree shall be cut a maximum of two inches above the normal plane of the ground.

f. Thinning Slash Treatment Specifications

1. Cut trees shall be felled away from unit boundaries, roads, and streams. All thinning slash, including brush, shall be pulled 50feet away from streams and Aspen Groves.

2. Limbs larger than 1 inch in diameter from the trunk shall be cut from the trunk of felled trees to achieve a slash depth. Slash depth shall not exceed 18 inches from ground line to the top limbs

3. All thinning slash shall be placed on or near the ground surface so that it will not lean against or be suspended by an uncut tree.

4. Individual cut trees selected from among a clump of trees shall be directionally felled away from the clump into the surrounding open area to eliminate to accumulation of slash among the remaining leave trees.

Performance requirements summary for all planting

The following describes the major items in the contract with the incentives and deductions for the work described.

Items below are included here as requirements.

Work Statement

Performance Standard

Government Method of Assessment

Incentives and Deductions for meeting the Standard

Tree Handling and Care C.4.2, and Tree Preparation C.4.3

Trees are properly handled and cared for. Box temperatures are below 45 degrees F while in the Contractor’s possession. When violations occur, Contractor takes corrective action immediately.

COR and inspector will monitor operations and conduct random samples.

• The Contractor’s care and handling of trees will affect the performance assessment as either a positive or negative incentive.

• If Contractor meets the standard, no deduction.

• If Contractor does not meet the standard and/or take corrective action, the Government may assess liquidated or actual damages (Section G), and provide adverse performance assessment.

Tree Planting C.4.4

Planting quality meets or exceeds performance standard of 93% quality.

COR or inspector conduct periodic inspection consisting of plots consistent with Planting Inspection

(FSH 2409.17,

2.82, part 2).

• The Contractor’s planting quality will be reflected in the performance assessment as either a positive or negative incentive.

• If Contractor achieves 93% planting quality or greater, full unit price as incentive.

• If Contractor does not achieve at least 93% quality, deductions as per Section G.

May result in adverse performance assessment.

Artificial Shade Installation C.4.5

Shade tubes/cards installed and meet or exceeds performance standard of 93%.

COR or inspector conduct random plots and periodic monitoring.

• The Contractor’s quality will be reflected in the performance assessment either a positive or negative incentive.

• If Contractor achieves 93% quality or greater, full unit price as incentive.

If Contractor does not achieve at least 93% quality, deductions as per Section G.

ADC

Installation C.4.6

Not Applicable

Brush Reduction/Thinning/Piling The solicitation is also for treatment of brush for fuels reduction as well as release around trees to limit competition for nutrients on the Carson and Bridgeport Ranger Districts, Humboldt - Toiyabe National Forest Land.

a. Brush will be cut in the following manor

All areas under trees will be cleared beyond the drip-line of live trees Remaining areas will be cut in a mosaic pattern to creat openings All brush will be cut no higher that 4 inchs from the ground 50% of all brush will be cut and piled

b. Piles will be constucted as follows:

All piles will be approximately 6’X6’X6’ Piles will be tight with pockets of fine fuels There will be no piles placed within 5’ of a live tree drip line

All piles will be covered securely, with a 3’X3’ piece of plastic

Definitions:

Acceptable (Stocking) Density. The number of trees between the minimum and maximum specified in the Silvicultural Summary Prescription.

Acceptable established tree. An existing conifer of seedling and/or sapling size that is of good form, color, free of damage, has 50% or greater crown ratio.

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

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

Artificial Shade. Materials not found on the planting site used to shade the tree.

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

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.

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, and surface frost.

Contract Time. See Period of Performance.

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.

Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). The on-site contract administrator for the Contracting Officer. The duties and responsibilities of the COR are defined in the letter of designation issued by the Contracting Officer

Competitive area. The area used for comparison of potential leave trees of the same species. The radius of the competitive area is specified in the Silvicultural Summary Prescription (Section J).

Contract Time. See Period of Performance.

Crop Tree. A tree that will be a component of a future commercial harvest or managed into the future. In this contract, it is interpreted as the trees specified in the Silvicultural Summary Prescription that are of preferred species, free of insect or disease infection, or if it is present does not threaten the tree survival or growth, exhibits leader dominance and growth, exhibits little or no damage that affects tree survival or growth, and has crown ratio of greater than 40% (ratio of crown to overall length).

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

Dead Tree. A tree with 0 to 35% remaining live crown. (The percentage of the original crown height in which twigs and buds are still alive after the fire, including parts bearing green or partly green foliage). Can be irregularly dispersed.

Decision area. An area that is evaluated to determine the appropriate number of leave trees. The Decision area is specified in the Silvicultural Summary Prescription.

Deficiency (or discrepancy). Trees that are unsatisfactory either because they were cut and met the requirements for a leave tree or were not cut and should have been. There are three categories of deficiencies described in the Inspection procedure (Section J).

Category A deficiencies – cutting trees that should not be cut or damaging selected leave trees. These are non-correctable errors.

Category B deficiencies - leaving trees that should be cut. These are excess trees and are correctable errors.

Category C deficiencies – other types of errors such as not completely severing trees from stumps, leaving small trees, and other errors as described on the inspection form.

Delivery point. The point identified for delivery of trees and other supplies. If there are multiple points for delivery of various items, it will be so noted.

Desirable leave tree characteristics. Trees that are desirable to be leave trees have the following characteristics:

• Straight stem

• Small branch diameter

• Good coloration

• Well-formed crown

• Branches horizontal or slightly angled to bole

• Free or limited presence of insect or disease damage and/or symptoms; damage or symptom does not affect growth or survival

• Vigorous annual terminal growth (especially in last 1 to 3 years)

• Crown class of dominant or co-dominant

• Crown ratio is 40% or larger.

Characteristics of trees that are not desirable for leave trees:

• Multiple tops

• Poor crown form

• Crook or seep in bole

• Dead or broken tops

• Poor coloration

• Large branch diameter

• Presence of insect or diseases

• Branches more than 45 degrees from horizontal

• Physical or mechanical damage

• Suppressed

• Poor annual growth

• Sucker limbs

Diameter breast height (dbh). The diameter of the trunk measure at a point 4-1/2 feet above the ground level on the uphill side of the tree.

Dominate tree. A tree whose crown extends above the general level of the main canopy; or in some cases, a tree whose canopy is above the main canopy of the tree’s immediate neighbors, receiving full light from above.

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

Excess tree. An uncut tree that according to contract specifications should have been cut. Excess trees are considered a Category B deficiency in the inspection procedure; these are generally correctable.

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.

Girdle. A cut through the bark and cambium tissue completely encircling the tree trunk for the purpose of killing the tree.

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.

Hang-up tree. Any cut tree suspended more than 3 feet off the ground.

Improperly Cut tree. A tree that was cut that should have been a leave tree based on contract specifications. Also includes any leave tree that was damaged by the contractor’s operations. This is considered a Category A deficiency and is not a correctable deficiency.

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 box.

Inspection Procedure. The plot inspection procedure described in Section J. Used to determine quality of work

Leave Tree. Any tree that is selected or required to be left standing according to requirements in Section C.4.

Leave Trees per acre. The number of leave trees within one acre. Generally referred to average leave trees per acre calculated from one or more plot samples.

No. of trees per plot X reciprocal of plot size = leave trees per acre and

Total trees on all plots X reciprocal of plot size = leave trees per acre Total no. plots taken

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

Live Tree. A tree with greater than 35% remaining live crown. (The percentage of the original crown height in which twigs and buds are still alive after the fire, including parts bearing green or partly green foliage). Can be irregularly dispersed.

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

Minor damage. Trees with damage, however, the crooks in the trunk are offset less than 3 inches from the long axis and within 13 feet of the ground, or bark damage to less than one-fourth the circumference of the tree. Trees with forks or broken tops are not considered to have minor damage.

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.

Period of Performance (also Performance Period or Contract Time). The number of calendar days allowed in the contract for completion of contract work.

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

Protection. Natural and artificial materials that act as an obstacle protecting the tree from animal or other injurious agents.

The protection material and effort required by the planter to protect the tree varies depending on the site conditions of each unit.

Quality Assurance. The actions taken by the Government to assess the results to determine that they meet contract requirements. The methods for quality assurance are described in the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP).

Quality Control. Those actions taken by a Contractor to control the production of outputs to ensure that they conform to the contract requirements. The methods for inspecting for quality control are described in the Contractor’s Quality Control Plan (QCP).

R4 Supplement Planting Inspection. The standard planting inspection procedure as described in Forest Service Handbook, 2409.17 (effective 4/29/2002), 2.82 part 2 (refer to Section C.5.1 for internet access and provided in Section J It 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.

Residual tree. Live trees remaining in the unit after the harvest or fire activity. Refer to the definition of “Live Tree” and “Dead Tree” above.

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

Satisfactory leave tree. Tree that is selected to be left on the unit that meets contract specifications. Tree is larger than the minimum height required to be cut.

Satisfactorily planted tree. A tree that is planted in accordance with C.4.4.1.

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 maximum depth of the scalp are specified in the Detailed Information

Chart.

Shade . Natural and artificial materials that protect the tree from the sun’s heat and wind The type of shade material and effort required by the planter to shade the tree varies depending on the site conditions of each unit.

Slash. Trunks of cut trees, and/or limbs created by the Contractor’s operations.

Small Trees. Trees to be cut that are taller than the minimum tree height to cut and shorter than the “small tree height:

specified in the Silvicultural Summary Prescription.

Stationary material. Natural material used to shade or protect the tree that is not moveable by the planter. Natural material 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 shade and protection for seedlings from sun and animal trampling.

Spacing. The horizontal distance from the trunk of one leave tree to the trunk of the next nearest leave tree. Average spacing is calculated from the leave trees per acre.

Special Protection Area. A zone that has special characteristics such as riparian vegetation, wildlife calving areas, etc.

Special protection areas are noted on the project maps and they may require special treatment such as an alteration to the tree cutting, slash treatment, vehicle travel or fueling of saws. Refer to the Silvicultural Summary Prescription for required practices.

Stream course. The area along a stream with riparian vegetation and other riparian characteristics. Stream courses are noted on the project maps. They typically require special treatment, which may include alteration to the tree cutting, slash treatment, vehicle travel or fueling of saws. Special treatments will be specified in the Silvicultural Summary Prescription.

Surplus tree: A tree that is left in the unit that is in addition to the other satisfactory leave trees and is larger than those defined as small trees. It is not counted in the acceptable tree per acre calculation but does contribute to the total trees per acre on the unit. A surplus tree is coded as S3 or S4 trees in the inspection procedure.

Thinning slash. Debris created from work under this contract, including all cut trees and shrubs including the tops, trunks, and branches.

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

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

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

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

In hoe planting a spot is considered unplantable if a suitable spot for planting a tree cannot be found after three attempts of throwing the hoe, and if the hole cannot be opened at the spot with five swings or less.

In auger planting , the spot in considered unplantable if a suitable spot cannot be found after three attempts at clearing or scalping to find a plantable spot, and then after three attempts to open the hole in the spot with the auger fail.

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 Planting Inspection in FSH 2409.17, 2.82 provided in Section J.

Unsatisfactory Tree. A tree that fails to meet contract standards; includes but is not limited to:

(1) cutting the wrong tree, failure to cut a correct tree, failure to completely sever a live limb, etc.

(2) Failure to prune a tree or pruning that is not in contract.

(3) Failure to girdle a tree that meets the specifications is also an unsatisfactory tree.

Unsatisfactory trees are considered a deficiency or discrepancy in contract inspection and may be either a Category A, Category B or Category C deficiency.

Wasted material. Material provided to the Contractor to conduct a task such as installing artificial shade or animal damage control that is lost, dropped, or damaged by the Contractor, or which is installed on trees not in accordance with the requirements of the contract. This may include, but is not limited to, installing shade on the wrong species or netting on the wrong tree(s).

Wasted tree. A tree that 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 Planting Inspection plot procedure are also considered wasted trees.

GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY and SERVICES

The property and services that will be provided by the Government are as follows:

Item Description Where, When, How

3.1. Detailed

Information Chart

Chart with unit specifics. Provided with task order

3.2. Project Maps Maps of treatment units with access roads, access point(s), and delivery point(s) identified. Suggested access to walk-in units identified.

Provided with task order

3.3. Access Roads 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 4-wheel drive vehicle equipped for mountain driving.

3.4. Access behind

locked gates

Some units are behind Forest road closures (locked gated). The Government will provide access through locked gates unless walk-in is required. Refer to C.4.1.3.

During period unit is being treated.

3.5. Trees- planting

stock

Container Grown Trees: Length of container plug will range from 8 to 10 inches. Top heights range from 3 to 10 inches. At least 90% of the trees will meet these specifications.

Provided on written order 24 hours in advance of delivery.

Delivered to delivery point.

3.8. Shade Tube

materials

Shade tubes and stakes Upon Contractor request, with 24 hours advance notice, delivered to delivery point.

3.10 Planting

Inspection Sheet

Form R4-2470-9. Quantity necessary to inspect the contract.

Provided with task order

3.11 Artificial Shade

and ADC Inspection Sheets

Included on Form R4-2470-9. Provided with task order

3.12 Plastic sheeting

for piles

When covered piles are required. Delivered to delivery point.