Questions__2_January_11_2017__question-answers.docx

Questions #3 January 11, 2017 Jeff Wells – Cleveland National Forest

Subject: AG-9AB5-S-17-0009 CSS Restoration Questions/answers & modifications as of Jan. 11, 2017.

Questions / Answers

1. Is the Restoration Plan available for review?

Yes, will provide to all.

2. Is the success criteria for native cover relative to a reference transect? And if so, will the contractor select it with the FS biologist or has the data already been collected?

No, success criteria will be evaluated relative to the transect percent cover and photo plot results.

3. Will each transect need to meet the success criteria or will it be based on the average of all the transects combined?

Success criteria will be determined by the average of all transects combined.

4. What happens if success criteria for native cover are not met due to drought, fire, or other circumstances outside the contractor’s control?

The Forest recognizes the inherent unpredictability of native seed restoration efforts in a remote location. Contractor will not be held accountable for circumstances outside their control such as wildfire, drought, etc.

5. When collecting cover data, will the acacia be considered native or non-native?

Neither. All acacia is to be removed (cut, sprayed, lop and scatter) from site.

6. Is the site 30 acres or 25 acres?

The project site is 30 acres total.

7. The RFP indicated the seed needs to meet certain PLS standards. Are you requiring all species to be tested and if so, what percentage of seed should be tested?

The Forest is not requiring seed testing. Determination of viability and percent of seed tested is at the discretion of the contractor.

8. In thinking about the schedule of restoration activities we have noticed there will be a long span between the initial removal and seeding which could cause the need for additional non-native plant control prior to soil surface and broadcast activities later in the year, without a clear option accounting for it if the conditions require it?

Scheduling non-native control (herbicide application) is at the discretion of the contractor and pre seeding site conditions. If the site requires more than one pre-seeding herbicide treatment than that is acceptable (see question 2 on Jan. 06 question sheet). Both fluazifop and aminopyralid can be used after site seeding. Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum foliar herbicide that has to be used prior to seeding, but can be applied any time prior to seed distribution. Determining herbicide application periods will be up to the contractor. Manual removal of non-natives (de-thatching, weed whacking ) can also be utilized prior to native seed germination/sprouting.

Clarifications / Modifications

1. Laurel Sumac (Malosma laurina) requires pre-seeding preparation. Please address in your technical proposal section. Seed shall be pre-treated with a fire effect in order to break seed dormancy. Approved and appropriate methods shall be utilized.

2. Appendix F. Success Standards have been revised. Please see attached appendix F.