Attachment_01_SOW_Spalding_Picnic_Area_Tree_Pruning_Project.pdf

Solicitation 140P8322Q0015-Tree Pruning Attachment 1 Statement of Work Nez Perce National Historic Park

STATEMENT WORK STATEMENT

A.1 SPALDING PICNIC AREA TREE PRUNING OVERVIEW

The Spalding Picnic Area, one of the 38 sites of Nez Perce National Historical Park, is located in Spalding, Idaho 13 miles east of Lewiston, Idaho. The picnic area was established by Idaho State Legislature to commemorate Henry Spalding and the Presbyterian Mission site located within the picnic area boundaries. The trees were planted in as a memorial grove to Spalding in 1936 when the site was a state park. In 1965 Nez Perce National Historical Park was established and obtained responsibility for the Picnic Area and its’ maintenance.

It has been over five years since the trees at the Spalding Picnic Area have been pruned. The 8.3-acre picnic area is mostly inhabited by eastern North American tree varieties that are brittle and shed large branches during wind and storm events. This project would contract tree pruning services for an estimated 160 trees with a focus on removing dead and hazardous limbs to mitigate potential for injury to visitors and staff as well as reduce the potential for property damage. It must be noted that the Spalding Picnic Area is full of rich archeology and work performed on its’ grounds must be done with minimal ground disturbance in mind. Also, to be noted the picnic area is adjacent to an active cemetery owned and operated by the Nez Perce Tribe. Outlined in this statement of work are protocols for work operations during burials and tribal ceremonies.

A.2 CONTRACT DEFINITIONS / ACRONYMS

(a) Normal Business Hours / Days: Normal business hours / days of operation are 8:00AM to 4:30PM, Monday through Friday, excluding Federal Holidays.

(b) Certified Arborist: An expert in the cultivation and care of trees. A “Certified Arborist” shall serve as the “site manager” for this contract and will be provided by the Contractor for not less than eight (8) hours a day whenever work is being performed – other than trash and debris pick-up. The Certified Arborist must have not less than three (3) years’ experience as a direct supervisor of a commercial tree maintenance operation that included tree removal, pruning, and stump removal in industrial, commercial or public sites and must be certified by International Society of Arboriculture. The Certified Arborist will ensure all pruning specifications are performed according to ANSI standards for tree pruning, ensure contract work does not conflict with ceremonies and funerals, and insure employees are adequately supervised and proper conduct is maintained. ISA certification document must be provided by the Contractor when bidding on the contract.

(c) Contracting Officer (CO): Official with the authority to enter into, administer, and/or terminate contracts and make related determinations and findings, and is a member of the evaluation team.

(d) Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR): Official responsible for providing contract oversight and technical guidance to the Contracting Officer. COR Responsibilities include certification of invoices, placing orders for service, providing technical guidance, overseeing technical aspects of the contract, and is a member of the Contractor evaluation team. All administrative functions remain with the Contracting Officer.

(e) Contractor: The term “Contractor” as used herein refers to both the prime Contractor and his employees, and any subcontractors and their employees. The Contractor shall be responsible for assuring that his subcontractors comply with the provisions of this contract.

Solicitation 140P8321Q0079-Tree Pruning Attachment 01 Statement of Work Nez Perce National Historic Park

A.3 SPALDING PICNIC AREA LOCATION

• Spalding Picnic Area, 39063 US Hwy 95, Spalding, ID 83540

A.4 TREE PRUNING

A.4.1 Spalding Picnic Area Tree Pruning Boundaries: The estimated 160 trees that will be pruned in this project fall within the 8.3-acre boundaries of the map below. The work included in this contract will be performed withing the following boundaries; the boundary will begin with the parking area and the road as the southwest boundary, the west most boundary will be the field immediately west to the southernmost part of the picnic area and as you head north will taper toward the foot bridge and follow the edges of the turf grass toward the clearwater river, the northern most boundary will be the edge of the turfgrass and no trees growing on the river’s edge will be included in this project, the northern most boundary will head south as you go behind the Indian Agents Cabin and the contract will focus on all the trees west of the open area as you head toward the parking area turn around by Hewett Road.

A.4.2 CERTIFIED ARBORIST / SITE MANAGER & TREE CREW

SITE MANAGER

(a) Responsible for overall management of all on site activities related to the contract

(b) Instructs and assigns crew duties to foreman, tree trimmers and grounds men

Approximately 160 Trees

(c) Manages work schedule with the COR to ensure that all activities are performed in a non-intrusive manner with limited disruption to operations

(d) Supervises and assists in pruning, operation of boom trucks, loaders, stump grinders, brush chippers, tractors, chainsaws and trucks

(e) Defines the staging area and safe zones by placing proper barriers and signage in visible locations throughout the defined areas of work

A.4.3 PERFORMANCE

The Contractor shall complete all pruning services within a period of forty-five (45) working days from start to finish (without exception). All services described in the Work Statement, including technical specifications, schedules, addenda, clauses, terms, and conditions of the contract shall form the complete scope of work.

A.4.4 TREE PRUNING

(a) Pruning of all trees shall be accomplished under the direction and guidance of an ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) Certified Arborist provided by the Contractor. All pruning will be performed according to the ‘Tree Pruning Guidelines’ developed by the ISA and the ‘Tree Maintenance and Safety Standards’, developed by the American National Standards Institute. These standards are the accepted standards of the tree care industry.

(b) Pruning will consist of crown cleaning /deadwood pruning which includes the removal of all dead, dying, diseased or broken branches 3” in diameter or larger throughout the tree. Pruning will also include the removal of crossing / rubbing, weak branches that may compromise the structural integrity of the tree.

(c) All portions of the trunk and any tree limbs or branches over 8” inches in diameter must be lowered to the ground by crane or ropes and may not be dropped. The Contractor will be responsible for any damage to the turf, roads or structures caused by dropping parts of the tree.

(d) All wood chip particles and debris from the tree removal shall be cleaned up thoroughly and removed from the daily. The Contractor shall take every precaution to prevent any falling branches or trees from damaging any buildings or fences, adjacent plant material or information panels.

(e) The Contractor shall be responsible for repair and or replacement to any damaged turf, fences or other property.

(f) The Contractor is responsible to ensure that all pruning cuts shall be made just outside the collar or shoulder ring (branch bark ridge/swollen trunk collar) close to parent stem so that healing can readily start under normal conditions.

(g) The Contractor is responsible to ensure that when reducing the tree height and spread, he/she shall retain the natural shape of the tree by removing the entire lateral branches back to their point of origin.

(h) The Contractor is responsible to ensure that all limbs 4” inch in diameter or over must be undercut to prevent tearing of the bark. All branches 8” diameter or larger shall be lowered to the ground using proper lowering devices such as ropes.

(i) The Contractor is responsible to ensure that all trees shall be pruned to retain the tree’s natural crown characteristics and growth patterns.

(j) The Contractor is responsible to ensure that all trees shall have branches removed to permit the sufficient penetration of sunlight and circulation of air through the canopy in conjunction to the aesthetic appearance, natural crown characteristics and growth patterns of the tree. This process is also known as thinning.

(k) The Contractor is responsible to ensure care when removing living and/or dead crossing or rubbing branches, where practicable, so the removal will not leave large holes in the canopy of the tree natural crown characteristics and growth patterns of the tree.

(l) The Contractor is responsible to ensure that, when pruning trees known to be diseased or susceptible to diseases, tools are disinfected with alcohol after each cut and between trees, where there is known to be danger of transmitting the disease on the tools.

(m) The Contractor is responsible for reporting to the COR all of the following conditions: when old scars are not healing properly; where callus growth is not already established; visible girdling roots, and when there are any structural weaknesses; decayed trunk or branches; and split crotches, or branch exists.

(n) The following methods of pruning are NOT acceptable therefore, the contractor is responsible to ensure that these methods are never performed: topping, stubbing, de-horning, and pollarding. Equipment that may damage the tree bark or cambium layer should not be used on or in the tree. The Contractor is not permitted to use climbing spikes or spurs to climb any live tree scheduled for pruning.

(o) The Contractor is responsible to ensure that in lifting the bottom branches of the trees for under clearance, care shall be given to symmetrical appearance, aesthetic appearance, natural crown characteristics and growth patterns of the trees.

(p) In general, the Contractor shall ensure when reducing the size of a tree and with respect to retaining the tree’s natural crown characteristics and patterns, not more than 1/4 of the total area shall be reduced at a single operation.

A.4.5 UTILITY LINES COMPLIANCE: Where pruning, conflicts with existing utility service lines (above or below ground), personnel and the appropriate utility company shall be notified by the Contractor.

The Contractor shall obtain all necessary permits and cooperate with the utility company to avoid any damage or liability.

A.4.6 SAFETY: All equipment to be used and work to be performed will be in full compliance with the most current revision of the American National Standards Institute and Occupational Safety These guidelines provide safety standards for workers engaged in pruning, repairing, maintaining, or removing trees. Tree care personnel will be sure not to position equipment that blocks any roads or walkways unless prior arrangements have been made with the COR. Tree care personnel will also make sure to provide adequate barricades, flag person, signs and or warning devices during the performance of tree work.

(a) Proclamations due to the COVID-19 Virus: The Contractor is expected to read and abide by Idaho State Proclamation and all proclamations added or modified pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also, the contractor shall be knowledgeable of the guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and all federal, state and local authorities and regulations to protect the park visitors, contractors and employees.

A.4.7 DEBRIS & WASTE REMOVAL: Removal of debris and waste away from the grounds shall be the responsibility of the Contractor. At the end of each day, the Contractor will remove all tree limbs, dead branches, bush / shrub / hedge clippings and other debris from the site resulting from the work. The Contractor shall ensure at all times that debris and waste generated by the Contractor is kept clear of vehicular and pedestrian traffic throughout the site. NOTE: The Government will not provide receptacle(s) for disposal of debris related to this contract.

A.4.8 COMMUNICATION & COORDINATION OF WORK WITH COR: Contractor shall participate in regular meetings with Government personnel and other Contractors at the to coordinate contract work schedules and contract related issues. Communication with the COR is strongly encouraged.

A.4.9 Meetings:

(a) Unless otherwise agreed, the Contractor shall meet with the COR / Site Manager at the end of each day to determine the work accomplished and to coordinate the following day’s schedule.

Daily meetings are also an opportunity for the Contractor to communicate, ask questions and ensure he/she understands the off-limit areas, which may vary, depending on the event.

(b) The Site Manager shall coordinate with the COR a work schedule to ensure that no work is being performed at the site of a scheduled burial or ceremony.

A.4.10 Work Environment:

(a) All work under this service contract will be performed primarily outdoors and personnel performing the services will be exposed to wind, sun, cold, dampness, frost, fog and rain.

These conditions, may, at times, be extreme and dangerous.

(b) The Contractor shall take all necessary precautions to protect its employees from the elements to the maximum practicable extent.

(c) In the event climate or weather conditions become unsuitable for work, the work shall resume as soon as conditions permit.

A.5 RESPONSIBILITIES

All contract administration matters will be handled by the Government Contracting Officer. The Contracting Officer's Representative for the contract will be designated in a separate letter and will be onsite during the period of performance.

A.5.1 STANDARDS OF EMPLOYEE CONDUCT

Contractor and contractor personnel shall be required to adhere to the following standards of dress and conduct while performing work in the Spalding Picnic Area.

(a) Contractors shall have a professional appearance wearing uniforms appropriate for the work they are performing. Shoes/boots will have no holes or loose soles. Steel-toed shoes will be required in accordance with OSHA.

(b) Shall not engage in loud or boisterous behavior or use profane or abusive language. Will show proper reverence during committal service.

A.5.2 USE OF FACILITIES

(a) The Government shall not be responsible for any loss, damage, or theft of contractor items, nor shall free telephone service be provided. Contractor shall be responsible for acceptable standards of housekeeping and custodial maintenance of Department of Interior’s facilities used by contractor's employees.

(b) Contractor employees may park privately owned vehicles in the area designated for parking by the Contracting Officer Representative.

(c) If nesting birds are present in the location of work, contractor will stop work and contact COR for direction on other available locations in the Picnic Area to continue work.

(d) All equipment, vehicles, and tools will be cleaned properly to prohibit introduction of invasive weeds and arboreal diseases onto the site.

(e) There are no available buildings or storage areas at the Picnic Area for the Contractor to store supplies and/or equipment. All Contractor supplies, materials and equipment brought on site necessary for contract performance shall be removed from the premises at the end of each workday.

(f) The contractor will be responsible for safely handling any chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, cleaning solutions, etc. in accordance with manufacturers recommendations. An SDS (Safety Data Sheet) is required for all chemicals, pesticides, herbicides and cleaning solutions.

A.5.3 INSURANCE & EVIDENCE OF COVERAGE

(a) Prior to commencing work under this contract, the Contractor shall furnish to the Contracting Officer a “Certificate of Insurance” indicating the kinds and types of coverage specified in this Section and as elsewhere provided in this contract.

(b) The insurance certificate shall also contain an endorsement to the effect that cancellation of any material changes in the policies which adversely affect the interests of the Government in such insurance shall not be effective unless a 30-day advance written notice of cancellation or change is furnished to the Contracting Officer.

(c) Workmen's Compensation: The Contractor agrees to procure and maintain for the contract period, Workmen's Compensation and employers Public Liability Insurance in accordance with the laws of the State of Idaho. The policy shall provide coverage for Public Liability limits of not less than statutory limitations if more than one person is involved.

(d) Liability & Indemnification: The Contractor shall take all necessary precautions to prevent damage to markers, monuments, sprinkler systems and structures during execution of this contract. The Contractor shall be charged current replacement costs for property damaged because of actions by Contractor personnel.

(e) It is agreed and understood that there is no limitation on the Contractor’s liability. In no event shall the Government indemnify and hold harmless the Contractor from any and all damages, expenses or harm incurred by the Contractor, or from any and all damages, expenses, or claims, which may arise from third party claims.

(f) Contractors shall provide proof of insurance, licenses and permits required for contract performance at the time of receipt of notification of contract award.

A.5.4 CONTRACTOR'S RESPONSIBILITIES

(a) The Contractor shall obtain all necessary licenses and permits necessary to perform the work involved and will take all precautions necessary to protect persons and property from injury or damage during the performance of this contract. Contractor is responsible for any injury or damage during the performance of this contract including injury to himself/herself, his/her employees, or others.

(b) The Contractor shall be liable for any damage to personal or public property that occurs during the performance of this contract that is caused by him/her or his/her employees' fault or negligence. Contractors shall be responsible for replacement of any picnic area structure, to include turf, curb, road pavement, headstone or marker, valve boxes, control markers, sprinkler heads, which is chipped, marred, damaged and/or ruined at the fault of the Contractor shall bear all costs associated with replacement and reinstallation. Any such damage shall be brought to the immediate attention of the appointed "COR" prior to repair/replacement/installation. Contractor shall obtain guidance from contracting officer or their representative'/e on the use of heavy equipment that will be used to prune the trees throughout the picnic area.

(c) The Contractor shall maintain personal liability and property damage insurance prescribed by the laws of the State of Idaho.

(d) Adequate warning devices, barricades, guards, flagmen or other necessary precautions shall be provided by the Contractor for the protection, safety, and warnings all pedestrians and vehicular traffic within the area.

A.5.5 SUPERVISION & TRAINING

(a) The Contractor is responsible for maintaining satisfactory standards of personnel conduct and work performance and shall administer disciplinary action as required.

(b) The Contractor shall remove employees for cause, to include, but not limited to, misconduct in performance of duty under these specifications and/or conduct contrary to the best interests of the Government.

(c) The Contractor shall also be responsible for training and safety precautions for contractor employees performing work under these specifications. OSHA standards shall be observed by the Contractor in all work performed. Appropriate safety equipment shall be furnished by the Contractor-to-contractor personnel and shall be used as prescribed by OSHA standards, including hard hats, safety shoes, safety glasses, and hearing protection devices.

A.6 SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

A.6.1 REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CONTRACTING OFFICER

(a) The Contracting Officer reserves the right to designate representatives to act for him/her in furnishing technical guidance and advice or generally supervises the work to be performed under this contract. Such designation will be in writing and will define the scope and limitations of designee's authority. A copy of the designation(s) shall be furnished to the Contractor at time of award.

(b) The Contracting Officer will delegate one (or more) representatives to serve as the Contracting

Officer’s Representative (COR). The COR may direct and arrange the Contractor’s work schedule in specific areas of the picnic area to coordinate with daily park activities and operations. Duties and responsibilities of the COR include day-to-day monitoring of the contract as follows:

(i) Providing contract oversight and technical guidance to the Contractor.

(ii) Placing orders for services.

(iii) Verification / certification of payments to the Contractor for services rendered.

(iv) Assuring that any changes effecting work involved, price, terms and/or conditions under the contract are not implemented before written authorization is issued by the Contracting Officer.

(c) All administrative functions remain with the Contracting Officer. Any modifications to the contract, including those involving no-cost changes, increases and decreases in cost or level of services provided, termination or extension of the contract (in part or in whole) and decisions concerning claims or disputes, must be authorized in writing by the Government Contracting Officer.

A.6.2 SITE MANAGER

(a) The Contractor shall provide a “Site Manager” who will be responsible for the following:

(i) Directing, overseeing and coordinating the work involved.

(ii) Staying abreast of all upcoming cemetery functions including special holiday events and burial activities.

(iii) Ensuring that contract work does not cause any committal service, ceremony, procession or visitation to be delayed, altered, or otherwise impacted in such a way that the dignity, security, or safety of the event or visit is compromised.

(b) To cause the least possible interference with cemetery activities, contract personnel will stop

(cease) all work in areas where burials are taking place. As a general "rule-of-thumb", work should not take place within 1,000 feet of an ongoing committal service or ceremony.

(c) Communication & Coordination of Work with COR: Communication with the COR (or designee) is strongly encouraged. Burial activities at the nearby Tribal Cemetery shall take precedence over contract work activities. Work activity and noise cannot disturb Burial Services. Trucks and workmen are prohibited from passing through the service area during this period.

(d) Notwithstanding the Contractors responsibility for total management during the performance of this contract, the administration of the contract will require maximum coordination between the Government and the Contractor. The Government shall provide, at the time of contract award, a list of Government personnel authorized to act as Contracting Officer's Representatives.