Attachment 2_SOW CFTEP Cameron County High Fence Construction.pdf

High-Game and Pasture Fencing, Cameron County, TX Attachment 2

Statement of Work for

Construction Services June 2022

1.0 TITLE: Install High-Game and Pasture Fencing

2.0 LOCATION: Various Locations in Cameron County, TX

3.0 PROJECT BACKGROUND: The Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program (CFTEP) is charged with controlling the spread of the Cattle Fever Ticks (CFT) that can infect cattle with bovine babesiosis. This infection can lead to a negative impact on the cattle business and result in an infestation of local ranches. CFT are not exclusive to cattle. These ticks have also found suitable hosts on white-tailed deer and several exotic ungulates including nilgai antelope.

APHIS is concerned about the role of white-tailed deer and nilgai antelope in spreading ticks in the area. Deer can serve as an effective cattle fever tick host and distribute engorged female ticks within their core areas and home ranges (Pound et al., 2010; Anderson et al., 2010). In one study, home ranges of whitetail deer, males and females in the western plains of South Texas, were measured to be approximately 264 and 189 hectares (652 and 467 acres), respectively (Fulbright and Ortega-S, 2006). Note: one square mile equals 640 acres. Hunter-killed white-tailed deer, infested with southern cattle ticks, were located on properties that had been vacate of cattle for about 10 years. (Pound et al., 2010). Nilgai are also hosts of the cattle fever ticks free ranging in Cameron County (Lohmeyer et al. 2018). Nilgai have large home ranges, up to 75,000 acres for young cows (Foley et al. 2017).

CFTEP seeks construction of approximately 10.5 miles of high-game fencing that is a minimum of 8-feet high on private and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) refuge property located in the rural areas of Cameron County, Texas. (Reference Exhibit A, page 18) Fence will be installed in targeted areas to prevent access of CFT host wildlife (whitetail deer and nilgai) in tick-free areas. The high-game fence will not obstruct public or private access roads or driveways, be installed through township areas, or be installed across water resources, including streams and arroyos. These fence portions may connect with other existing game fence or cattle fencing already in place, creating miles of contiguous fencing across a wildlife corridor within the County. This additional fencing will decrease whitetail deer and nilgai antelope movement in several locations (Reference paragraph 4.8) or contain cattle on systematic treatment for CFT outside of the Permanent Quarantine Zone (Exhibit A). CFTEP will also fund construction of a net-wire pasture fence to contain cattle on systematic treatment for CFT.

4.0 CONSTRUCTION PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The purpose of this Statement of Work (SOW) is to procure construction services to install high-game fencing along the proposed construction corridor at various locations in Cameron County, Texas. The construction corridor referenced herein is defined as the area impacted by construction of the high-game or pasture fencing.

4.1 Contractor shall meet with the Government to ascertain a clear understanding of the project scope; address any items that may not be clearly defined in the SOW and address any site security concerns and protocols. Tasks that are unclear or deviations to the scope shall be confirmed with the CO prior to incurring costs. Contractor shall provide services as identified in the SOW. Note: The word “provide(s)” as mentioned in this SOW means to provide and install.

4.2 Contractor shall furnish all plant, labor, materials (i.e., woven wire fences, gates, posts, braces, fittings, bonding jumpers, etc.), services, software, equipment/supplies, etc.

necessary to effectuate completion of this project.

4.3 Submit Requests for Information (RFI) to the Government for review and acceptance prior to construction. Government will have a minimum of 14 working days to review and/or respond to each request. Requests received after 2 p.m. EST/EDT are considered as received the next business day.

a. Provide typical cut sheets of material recommended for installation. Contractor will use professional judgment in determining that enough information is included in the submittals for a quality deliverable and Government acceptance.

b. Maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) of all glues, sealants, paints, sprays, etc. used during the installation process. Submit SDS to the Government at contract closeout.

4.4 Prior to digging, Contractor shall verify/locate existing above and below ground on-site utilities and have utilities marked to aid with construction.

a. Contact “Texas 811” or similar entity to mark/locate potential buried utilities in the project area. Utilize ground-penetrating radar for the full width of the rights-of-way to ensure utilities are not within the construction corridor. Locate all potential safety hazards and existing utilities in the proposed construction corridor. Document any utilities not identified on the survey drawings.

b No hole/trench, regardless of utility, shall remain uncovered overnight.

c. Contractor will assume all responsibility if damage occurs resulting from failure to properly identify site utilities in the construction zone. Damaged utilities whether above or below grade will be repaired at no cost to the Government.

Attention: The Contractor shall be solely responsible for locating all existing utility installations above and below ground in advance of the project by contacting their respective owners. All costs related to crossing existing utilities, exploratory excavation, and other methods of locating existing utilities are incidental and shall not be paid separately but shall be considered incidental to the applicable bid items. Not all utilities are identified on site plans.

A federal law now in effect states that any person who engages in excavation activities without first using an available one-call notification system to determine locations of underground facilities; or without heeding location information or markings and subsequent damages a pipeline facility shall be subject to a fine, imprisonment, or both. http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/PLAW- 109publ468/html/PLAW-109publ468.htm

d. Existing buildings, fences, driveways, roads, etc. damaged during the construction process will be repaired at no cost to the Government.

e. Utilize methodologies to minimize airborne particles, fugitive dust, sediment problems and soil erosion.

4.5 Based on historic data, Contractor may need to prep, clear, and level an area between 10 feet and 20 feet wide prior to installing the fencing to allow for vehicle traffic and equipment access. Contractor shall ensure minimum impact to the environment.

Existing fence will remain in place. Install new fencing adjacent to existing fencing.

(Exhibit E, page 22) Utilize a forestry drum mulcher attached to a skid steer to clear area.

Drum mulcher should handle the vegetation found in the local area. The mulched organic and other vegetation matter to remain on the properties.

4.6 Repair graded/disturbed areas impacted by this project. Backfill and grade before applying topsoil for finished landscaping disturbed by this contract. Apply topsoil to a minimum depth of four inches in all areas to be seeded. If topsoil is not available, import additional topsoil as necessary.

a. Reseed and fertilize landscaped areas impacted during the construction process with grass native to the area. Contractor shall provide means to maintain reseeding until grass has taken firm root and the ground is stabilized.

b. Furnish subsoil and topsoil material from a single source throughout the project.

Submit name and all pertinent information for material suppliers including material resource certificates.

4.7 Ensure construction sites are clean and remain free of all construction debris and personal trash generated by the Contractor. Contractor is responsible for waste disposal.

4.8 Construction corridor path is as outlined below. Total construction corridor is approximately 10.5 miles. Exact locations for the new fencing have been established per the survey and staking process under the above referenced contract identified in section 4.0. Note: Paragraph 4.8 and the associated figures (1-3 and 5A and 5B) are for reference only.

a. Fence Proposal #1: “Ocelot fence” extensions. Currently, there are eight miles of ocelot fencing along U.S. Highway 100. This survey proposes two extensions to that existing fencing: 0.9 miles in Laguna Vista and 1.08 miles east of Los http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/PLAW-109publ468/html/PLAW-109publ468.htm http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/PLAW-109publ468/html/PLAW-109publ468.htm

Fresnos. Place fence along the existing three-strand barb wire fence (Los Fresnos gap) or across salt flats (Laguna Vista gap). Fence is a high-game fence with small squares to prevent passage of ocelots or jaguarundis. Reference Figures 1- 3.

Latitude Longitude

Cameron County Drainage District #1 – Albert Barreda Start of fence 26.068757 -97.433689 End of fence 26.068740 -97.433459

Rosas Nilgai Fence Los Fresnos Start of fence 26.068288 -97.425271 End of fence 26.068740 -97.433459

Uhlhorn Nilgai Fence Los Fresnos Start of fence 26.067738 -97.419369 End of fence 26.068288 -97.425271

USFWS Nilgai Fence Laguna Vista El Tular Start of fence 26.093100° -97.310489° End of fence 26.093328° -97.310503°

Start of fence 26.093342° -97.309334° End of fence 26.095065° -97.309441°

Start of fence 26.096541° -97.310231° End of fence 26.098633° -97.308982°

Start of fence 26.099350° -97.306882° End of fence 26.103496° -97.312401°

Start of fence 26.095751 -97.309349 End of fence 26.094976 -97.309314

Start of fence 26.094976 -97.309314 End of fence 26.093494 -97.309318

Start of fence 26.093494 -97.309318 End of fence 26.093305 -97.310499

IBC Bank Nilgai Fence Laguna Vista Same coordinates as USFWS Nilgai Fence Laguna Vista El Tular

Laguna Madre Water District

Same coordinates as USFWS Nilgai Fence Laguna Vista El Tular

b. Fence Proposal #2: Cameron County, Jenkins Tract on Laguna Atascosa

National Wildlife Refuge. The purpose of the fence under Proposal #2 is to contain cattle undergoing systematic treatment for CFT. The survey proposes approximately 8.52 miles of new fencing. Fence is not a high-game fence but is similar to a pasture fence. The pasture fence height is constructed of net wire with wires spaced far enough apart to allow ocelot, jaguarundi, and tortoises to pass through. Reference Figures 5A and 5B.

Latitude Longitude USFWS cattle fence Boswell Jenkins tract north

Start of fence 26.147525° -97.350524° End of fence 26.146395° -97.298795°

USFWS cattle fence Boswell Jenkins tract south Start of fence 26.136329° -97.350533° End of fence 26.136215° -97.303762°

4.9 Tasks shall include but not be limited to the following:

a. Identify ingress and egress to properties.

b. Identify site utilities in the construction corridor.

c. Clear and grade constructing corridor.

d. Install high-game fencing, pasture fencing, and gates specific to fence proposal requirements.

4.10 Security:

a. Conduct all work during daylight hours.

b. Contractor, at his own expense, is responsible for site security.

Equipment shall be brought into and out of the work site(s) daily and not left at a work site overnight or unattended for an extended period.

4.11 Any equipment, i.e., earth moving equipment, bulldozers, shredders, augers, etc. that is removed from a controlled CFT quarantine/infested premise must be cleaned and disinfected (C&D). If the equipment is moved but remains elsewhere in an infested area, no cleaning and disinfection (C&D) is required until the equipment is moved off the premises (infested land) permanently. This requirement impacts only the Jenkins’ tract. C&D is a regulatory requirement and will be performed by CFTEP personnel.

CFTEP will also provide the permethrin (insecticide) at no cost. It is imperative that the Contractor contact CFTEP to arrange for C&D services. In addition, equipment that remains in an infected area during construction, contact CFTEP to help arrange a storage location with the landowner.

4.12 Ensure field crew is familiar with all data to ascertain rights-of-way and to identify various privately owned parcels. Fencing shall get installed within existing and/or proposed rights of way or easements.

4.13 There are approximately five private and two public parcel holders and approximately 10 access points for construction of high-game fence. Note: It is imperative that all contact with private parcel holders along the proposed route is by a CFTEP representative.

Access property from designated roadways and any approved excursions off the road.

Utilize the same paths for both ingress and egress to minimize any negative environmental impacts.

4.14 As required, locate staging sites for construction equipment and supplies on privately owned properties of landowners where the fencing is located.

a. Identify areas for staging that are not greatly impacted by the work activities for fence installation.

b. Contractor shall coordinate with the PM and COR for a safe and accessible staging area. Restore staging areas and access roads to their original condition before final acceptance of the work.

c. To comply with environmental laws and other environmental review considerations, locate staging sites in previously cleared areas, roads, or driveways so as not to impact federally listed threatened or endangered species or migratory birds. Sites will be determined on a case-by-case basis, depending upon the location of the fencing and an agreement between APHIS and the concurring landowner.

4.15 Contractor shall maintain daily and/or weekly reports and a photo journal for project duration. Submit documents as required by the Government. Document via a photo journal potential conflicts or anomalies. Notify the PM for concurrence of a resolution approach prior to starting any construction.

4.16 Contractor will notify the designated U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) liaison who will then notify the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) immediately if a Threatened and Endangered (T&E) animal is seen in the project vicinity. Reference paragraph 5.2 regarding T&E species.

4.17 All employees working on the construction sites shall receive government-provided environmental training before proceeding to the work sites. No exceptions are allowed.

Contractor shall minimize impact to existing flora and fauna as far as brush removal.

4.18 Provide a Safety Plan and Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) Plan for

Government review and acceptance. QA/QC plan should also address project phasing to minimize impact to the owners’ operations and preventative measures for excessive noise pollution. Include a Waste Management Plan. Plan should address where and how the waste is diverted. Include estimated percentages/tonnage for salvage, recycle, landfill, etc. and the contact information of disposal site(s). Maintain records of disposal for submission to the Government at project closeout.

4.19 Ensure the field crew is equipped with the proper personal protective equipment i.e., hard hat, safety vests, leather gloves, eye protection, etc.

4.20 All material shall be new and rated for the environment in which installed.

a. All nuts and bolts, etc. in direct contact with corrosive chemicals shall be stainless steel.

b. Coat all nuts and bolts, other than stainless steel, with a rust inhibitor.

c. Fasteners shall be suitable to withstand design loads as recommended by the manufacturer. Exposed heads shall match.

4.21 Provide drawings/sketches and specifications of high-game fence, gates, and pasture fence installation/construction requirements for Government review and acceptance.

Reference Exhibits for typical installations. Reference paragraph 10.6 for drawing requirements.

4.22 Coordinate with the PM prior to performing any welding or work requiring hot permits.

Weld connections shall have smooth transitions with no sharp or extensive projections.

Contractor shall be aware of environmental conditions that may impact the ability to perform welding i.e., wind, etc. Provide the necessary fire watch.

High-Game Fencing Requirements: The following general requirements shall apply as applicable. Note: seven properties inclusive of five private parcel owners are impacted by this installation. Contractor shall ensure passages for property owner access. Reference attachment 3 for technical requirements for high-game fencing.

4.23 High-tensile rolls of 330 feet x 96 inches with 3 inch x 3 inch squares of tight lock fixed-knot grid pattern wire pasture fence shall be a minimum of 8 feet (96 inches) high. Bottom strand shall be at ground level. Utilize 50-lb (pound) Tie-N-Lock releasable cable ties along fencing.

4.24 Reinforce fencing every 15 feet with concrete anchored 2-7/8-inch upset oil field tubing.

Install four 10-foot galvanized T-posts between the 2-7/8-inch upset oil field tubing pipe.

(Exhibit B, page 19)

a. All galvanized pipes shall be buried a minimum of four feet below grade in concrete.

b. A single two-barbed wire shall run across the top of all newly erected high-game fence 3 inches from the top of the high-tensile wire. (Exhibit H, page 24)

c. Construct cattle fencing of net wire with wires spaced far enough apart to allow ocelot, jaguarundi, and tortoises to pass through. Cut all offsets and “H-Braces” to a uniform length/size.

4.25 Construction materials require galvanized “T-Posts”.

a. Prime with a galvanized rust inhibitor, paint, and cap all vertical pipes to reduce rust and corrosion.

b. Weld a metal plate to the top of vertical pipes to minimize moisture infiltration.

4.26 Entrances to individual properties shall be corner braced appropriately in accordance with industry best practices; and local, state, and federal regulations. (Exhibit C, pages 19 and 20) Install a minimum of 16 feet x 8 feet high-game proof gate. (Exhibit F, page 23)

4.27 Corners are at 90-degree angles with H-Brace structures and a 15-foot Deadman. Offsets are less than 90-degrees and similarly structured/constructed the same way as corners. (Exhibit C)

4.28 As required per code, ensure fence is properly grounded for lightning protection.

4.29 For visibility to mark long runs of fence quickly and easily, use “undersill” or trim strips of white vinyl siding cut into 3-inch pieces. Snap strips randomly onto barbed-wire fence.

4.30 High-tensile rolls of 660 feet with 12-inch squares of King Ranch Wire pasture fence. Fence shall be a minimum of four feet (49 inches) high, hinged-jointed with a grid-like pattern.

Install the bottom of the fence at least 6 inches to 8 inches off the ground to allow grazing of the fence line.

4.31 Utilize 50-lb Tie-N-Lock releasable cable ties along fencing.

4.32 As required per code, ensure fence is properly grounded for lightning protection.

4.33 For visibility to mark long runs of fence quickly and easily, use “undersill” or trim strips of white vinyl siding cut into 3-inch pieces. Snap strips randomly onto barbed-wire fence.

4.34 Line Fencing: Reinforce fencing every 20 feet with 8-1/2 feet x 5 inches treated wooden fence posts. Install four 6-1/2 feet galvanized T-posts between the 8-1/2 feet treated wooden fence posts. (Exhibit B, page 19)

a. Bury all treated wooden posts a minimum of 3 feet below grade.

b. Install 8-feet double H-Braces every 1320 feet. (Exhibit G, page 24)

c. Install a single 2-barbed wire across the top of all newly erected pasture fence 3 inches from the top of the high-tensile wire. (Exhibit H, page 24)

d. Construct pasture fencing of net wire with wires spaced far enough apart (12 inches wide and 4 inches tall) to allow ocelot, jaguarundi, and tortoises to pass through. Cut all offsets and H-Braces to a uniform length/size.

e. Any change of direction will require an 8-feet H-Brace with a Deadman. (Exhibits G and I, page 25)

4.35 Corner Fencing: Corner posts shall be 9 feet x 6 inches treated wooden posts buried at a minimum depth of four feet below grade and ground tamped with two 8-feet spaced H- Braces and an 8-foot Deadman. (Exhibits G and I)

4.36 Entrances to individual properties shall be corner braced appropriately in accordance with industry best practices; and local, state, and federal regulations. (Exhibit C and Exhibit F, page 23)

Install a minimum of 16 feet x 4 feet high game proof gates with 8-feet double H-Braces and an 8-foot Deadman (24 feet on each side of the gate). (Exhibits G, H, and I)

4.37 Corners are at 90-degree angles with two H-Brace structures and one 8-foot Deadman.

Offsets are less than 90-degrees and similarly structured/constructed the same way as corners. (Exhibit C)

5.0 CFTEP REQUIREMENTS: Tasks shall include but not be limited to the following:

a. CFTEP will identify all properties.

b. CFTEP staff will identify Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) and acquire landowner signatures.

c. Identify meets and bounds (property line) to place a high-game fence on the property location of several landowner properties.

d. Provide an aerial map of various properties. Include Global Positioning System

(GPS) coordinates in the documentation package.

5.1 CFTEP will provide personnel to serve as liaison (USDA Liaison) between USFWS, Laguna Atascosa Wildlife Refuge authorities, and private landowner(s). Liaison will confirm contractor access to the land areas to perform the survey and staking/construction. Liaison will notify contractor in writing of access approval.

5.2 CFTEP shall be responsible for instructing contractor personnel of their duties and responsibilities under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 and the requirements of a Biological Opinion (BO) issued by the USFWS on October 25, 2013.

a. Federal agencies (i.e., USDA) are directed, under consultation with the USFWS, to ensure that their actions (and actions of their contracted agents) do not jeopardize the continued existence of T&E species (plants and/or animals) or destroy or adversely modify designated critical habitat.

b. Ensure survey and staking/construction activities will take place in Cameron County within known travel corridors for both the ocelot and jaguarundi (both considered T&E animals).

c. In accordance with the ESA, USDA consulted with the USFWS on proposed survey and staking/construction activities and their potential effects on T&E plants and animal species found in the designated fence areas. The USFWS has determined that survey and staking/construction activities will not place T&E plants and animals in jeopardy if the activities abide by the terms and conditions set forth in the BO. T&E animals, other than potential CFT vectors, will not be harmed or harassed and will be allowed to leave on their own volition. Contractor will notify the designated USDA liaison who will then notify the USFSW immediately if a T&E animal is seen in the project vicinity.

d. Instructional material shall be provided to the Contractor so Contractor can conduct the mandatory environmental training prior to work crews commencing work on the project. In the event new employees are brought in to work on the survey and staking/construction project, they must also receive the mandatory environmental training before proceeding to the work site.

6.0 PROJECT DATA: As applicable, the following information and design criteria are available for the Contractor’s use to ensure compliance. Version identified may or may not be the latest. Contractor to confirm and reference the latest version prior to incorporating into design documents. Not all project data provided is applicable to this project.

• 29 CFR Part 1910 Occupational Safety and Health Standards

• 29 CFR Part 1926 Safety and Health Regulations for Construction

7.0 EXHIBITS TO THE SOW.

• Exhibit A. Permanent Quarantine Zone and the Texas Counties Involved.

• Exhibit B. Example of Game Fence Showing Braced Corners and Entrances using 2-7/8” Pipe for Additional Strength and Stability with 4” Pipe at Corners and Entrances

• Exhibit C. Corners and Offsets. Diagram and Example of Corner H-Brace for Fence with 15-ft Deadman

• Exhibit D. Two Examples of Single Barbed Wire Across the Top of Fence

• Exhibit E. Existing Fence Example with High-Game Fence Erected Behind

Existing Fence

• Exhibit F. Example of Existing and New Gate Entrance

• Exhibit G. Example of Double H-Brace

• Exhibit H. Example of Single 2-Barbed Wire

• Exhibit I. 8-ft Deadman

Figures (for reference only)

• Figures 1A and 1B. Fence Proposal #1. Location of Los Fresnos proposed fence extension

• Figures 2A and 2B. Fence Proposal #1. Location of Laguna Vista proposed fence extension

• Figure 3. Fence Proposal #1. County-scale view of existing fence (yellow line) and proposed extensions (red lines)

• Figure 5A. Fence Proposal #2. Cameron County, Jenkins Tract on Laguna

Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

• Figure 5B. Fence Proposal #2. Jenkins’ tract maps (yellow outline) and previously existing Boswell Tract (blue outline). (A). County-level map. (B).

Close up.

8.0 PROJECT CONTACTS

8.1 APHIS Contracting Officer (CO)

Jim Roloff USDA APHIS MRPBS Acquisition Branch 250 Marquette Avenue, Suite 410 Minneapolis, MN 55401-2329 Tel. No.: (612) 590-7603 https://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owasrch.search_form?p_doc_type=STANDARDS&p_toc_level=1&p_keyvalue=1910 https://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owasrch.search_form?p_doc_type=STANDARDS&p_toc_level=1&p_keyvalue=1926

Email: James.G.Roloff@usda.gov

8.2 APHIS Field Operations – CFTEP/Program Manager

John Picanso Director -CFTEP 903 San Jacinto Blvd., STE 220 Austin, TX 78701 Tel. No.: (512) 383-2441 Cell No.: (301) 887-7068 Email: John.Picanso@usda.gov

8.3 APHIS Engineering Project Manager (EPM)

Rheta R. Johnson

USDA APHIS MRP AAMD ESB

Room 3A-03.40 4700 River Road, Unit 115 Riverdale, MD 20737 Tel. No.: (301) 851-2638 Cell No.: (301) 440-1623 Email: Rheta.R.Johnson@usda.gov

8.4 APHIS CFTEP Field Operations

Douglas Anderson CFTEP Field Operations Supervisor (South) Hidalgo County Office 211 Schuerbach Road Mission, TX 78573 Tel. No.: (956) 443-9020 Email: Douglas.Anderson@usda.gov

8.5 APHIS VS CFTEP Field Operations Supervisor

Teofilo Vela Laredo Main Office 120 San Francisco Avenue Laredo, TX 78040 Cell No.: (956) 763-2666 Email: Teofilo.Vela@usda.gov

8.6 ARS Research Entomologist

John Goolsby Agricultural Research Service

ARS-PA 3094

22675 N. Moorefield Road, MAB 6419 Edinburg, TX 78541 Cell No.: (956) 373-3223 mailto:James.G.Roloff@usda.gov mailto:John.Picanso@usda.gov mailto:Rheta.R.Johnson@usda.gov mailto:Douglas.Anderson@usda.gov mailto:Teofilo.Vela@usda.gov

Email: John.Goolsby@usda.gov

8.7 APHIS VS AHT/MPI Supervisor SPRS D4 Tick Force CFTEP (Brownsville) Jesus Coy 8000 US Hwy 281 Brownsville, TX 78520 Cell No.: (956) 546-6004 Email: Jesus.Coy@usda.gov

8.8 Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) Field Operations

Eli Benavidez Supervising Inspector 25833 Zinnia County Road Raymondville, TX 78580 Cell No.: (956) 229-2761 Email: Eli.Benavidez@tahc.texas.gov

8.9 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services (Texas)

Sergio Vasquez Email: Sergio.Vasquez@fws.gov;

8.10 APHIS Safety and Health Branch Acting Branch Chief

Timothy Snidow

USDA APHIS MRP ESSD

4700 River Road Riverdale, MD 20737 Tel. No.: (301) 904-0916 Cell No.: (443) 772-4862 Email: Timothy.Snidow@usda.gov

8.11 APHIS Security Chief

Jeffrey Zimmerman

USDA APHIS MRP EMSSD

4700 River Road Riverdale, MD 20737 Tel. No.: (301) 436-3144 Cell No.: (919) 338-3259 Email: Jeffrey.Zimmerman@usda.gov

8.12 COR TBD

9.0 OTHER REQUIREMENTS

9.1 Construction drawings/sketches should show all proposed work items. Submittals shall meet the requirements of section 10 “Document Submittals.” All document mailto:John.Goolsby@usda.gov mailto:Jesus.Coy@usda.gov mailto:Eli.Benavidez@tahc.texas.gov mailto:Sergio.Vasquez@fws.gov mailto:Timothy.Snidow@usda.gov mailto:Jeffrey.Zimmerman@usda.gov submittals must be signed and sealed by a Professional Engineer registered in the State of Texas and the Surveyor’s certification.

9.2 The Contractor shall comply with the latest editions of national codes and regulations including federal, state, and local laws. Contractor shall pull permits as required and as denoted in the SOW. Codes and regulations include, but are not limited to, the following:

• International Building Code (IBC)

• National Life Safety Code

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration Regulations (OSHA)

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

• Texas Department of Transportation Survey Manual

• Texas Administrative Codes

9.3 Cost Proposal and Schedule: Based upon this SOW, the Contractor shall prepare an itemized fee proposal and schedule of values for services required to complete the aforementioned project. Fee proposal shall show tasks, the disciplines/trades required, number of manhours for each discipline/trade, labor costs, material costs, travel costs, etc. A cover letter shall set forth all assumptions and exemptions made in the development of the fee proposal and indicate the costs for each task. A lump sum proposal without the required breakout is unacceptable.

9.4 Field Investigation and Site Survey: The Contractor shall coordinate with the PM and inform the CO to schedule and conduct all site investigations. Contractor shall investigate proposed construction site to ascertain site conditions prior to commencing work.

9.5 Compliance with Local Building Officials: Public Law 100-678 requires federal agencies to offer local building officials the opportunity to review projects for code conformance. The design effort must include coordination efforts with the local building officials including officials at the military base, etc. The federal Government will not pay for reviews. If the code authority declines to review the project without payment, the Contractor shall document the effort was made to coordinate with the code authority, but that they declined the offer. If the code authority chooses to review the design without payment, the Contractor shall coordinate all project submissions with the local code authorities.

9.6 Cost Estimates: Construction costs shall be presented based on CSI Master Format

2020 in sufficient detail to facilitate a review and verification of all quantities and cost assumptions. The construction cost estimates shall include all associated parts of the construction such as subcontractor overhead and profit, contingencies, general requirements, travel costs, unit costs, labor hours, bonding, soft costs (i.e., environmental assessment, permitting, inspection services/contract administration and designer of record services), etc. to ensure all aspects of the construction are included.

Please ensure proposal is broken out and detailed enough for the Government to make an informed decision regarding associated tasks and costs. A lump sum proposal that is not detailed (broken out) will not be accepted. Reference paragraph 9.3 “Cost Proposal and Schedule.”

9.7 Meeting Minutes: Contractor shall be responsible for conducting meetings and recording any minutes. Contractor shall document and distribute all project meeting minutes three days before the next scheduled meeting. The meeting minutes need only record the date, time, location, attendees, major issues discussed, and conclusions reached. Meetings are bi-weekly or at the discretion of the PM.

a. Contractor shall participate in project meetings during the construction portion of the contract with the Government. Contractor shall document inspection observations inclusive of punch list items.

b. Since this project requires coordination with several outside entities, Contractor shall maintain written documentation of all correspondence and conversations between them and the authorities having jurisdiction for this project. As must as possible, notify the Government on any scheduled meetings with jurisdictional authorities to allow the option for participation in the meeting.

9.8 Electronic Files and Final Turnover: Drawings/sketches related to this effort shall be prepared using computer aided design and drafting (CADD), AutoCAD for Windows, and also in .PDF files.

a. Electronic and hard copy formats of the drawings will be provided to the Government.

b. Final as-built drawings shall be signed and sealed as required by the state.

Submit both CADD and .PDF formatted files during project closeout.

10.0 DOCUMENT SUBMITTALS

10.1 Contractor to submit drawings, reports, equipment submittals, etc. in accordance with the submittal schedule. Contractor shall ensure that submittals are identified with the appropriate date, revision number and submittal identifier to avoid confusion. It is expected that the Contractor will use professional judgment in determining that enough information is included in each submittal for an effective review and to ensure project execution.

10.2 Project submittal schedule: Upon receipt of the Notice to Proceed, the Contractor, at the direction of the CO, shall provide in writing a work schedule that encompasses the performance period and all tasks as required by the Government. Submit schedule in Gantt chart format or equal. Schedule should identify critical path elements and indicate project requirements for each submission and review stage.

Schedule is provided for negotiation with the Contractor when setting contract time requirements for contract submissions and construction deadlines. The number of days indicates the time duration to complete a task upon completion of the preceding task. A minimum of 14 working days for review time will be required by the

Government. The duration of the contract shall not exceed 10 months from issuance of the Notice to Proceed.

10.3 Submittal Distribution: The Contractor shall send copies of submittals directly to the following individuals. A copy of the Contractor’s transmittal letter shall be provided to the CO and EPM. Deliver submittals by courier. Reference section 8.0 “Project Contacts” for respective contact information. Drawing size listed is architectural C-size unless otherwise noted.

Fee Proposal/Cost Estimate Contracting Officer electronic Project Manager electronic CFTEP Field Ops Supervisor electronic Engineering Project Manager electronic

Equipment and Drawing Submittals Contracting Officer electronic COR electronic CFTEP Field Ops Supervisor electronic + (1) C-size Project Manager electronic + (1) C-size Engineering Project Manager electronic + (1) C-size

11.0 FINAL DOCUMENT TURNOVER

Final drawing submission shall incorporate and address actual site conditions. Final drawings including any reports shall be signed and sealed by Professional Architects and Engineers registered to practice in the state where the project is located. Include all project documents on either compact disk (CD) or thumb drives (TD). Please categorize files appropriately for ease of access. Coordinate with the EPM closeout document requirements. Closeout documents shall be submitted no later than twenty

(20) days upon completion of the project.

Contract Specialist 1 CD/TD Project Manager 3 copies: 1 - C-size; 1-D-size; 1 CD/TD CFTEP Field Ops Supervisor 2 copies: 1- C-size; 1 CD/TD Engineering Project Manager 2 copies: 1 - C-size; 1 CD/TD

References

Foley, A. M., J. A. Goolsby, J. A. Ortega-S., Jr., J. A. Ortega-S., A. Pérez de León, N. K. Singh, A. Schwartz, D. Ellis, D. G. Hewitt, and T. A. Campbell. 2017. Movement patterns of nilgai antelope in South Texas: implications for cattle fever tick management.

Preventive Veterinary Medicine 146:166–172.

Lohmeyer, K. H., M. A. May, D. B. Thomas, and A. A. Pérez de León. 2018. Implication of nilgai antelope (Artiodactyla: Bovidae) in reinfestations of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Acari: Ixodidae) in south Texas: a review and update. Journal of Medical Entomology 55:515–522.

Pound, J. M., George, J. E., Kammlah, D. M., Lohmeyer, K. H., and Davey, R. B. (2010). Evidence for the role of white-tailed deer (Artiodactyla:Cervidae) in the epidemiology of cattle ticks and southern cattle ticks (Acari:Ixodidae) in reinfestations along the Texas/Mexico border in South Texas – A review and update. J. Econ. Entomol. 103, 211–218.

Anderson, D. P., Hagerman, A. D., Teel, P. D., Wagner, G. G., Outlaw, J. L., and Herbst, B. K. (2010). Economic Impact of Expanded Fever Tick Range. Research Report 10-2. College Station, TX: Agricultural and Food Policy Center, Texas AgriLife Research.

Fulbright, Timothy Edward and Ortega-Santos, Jose’ Alfonso (2006 and 2013). White-Tailed Deer Habitat Ecology and Management on Rangelands. Texas A.M. University Press.

EXHIBITS

EXHIBIT A

Permanent Quarantine Zone and the Texas Counties Involved

EXHIBIT B

Example of Game Fence Showing Braced Corners and Entrances using 2- 7/8” Pipe for Additional Strength and Stability with 4” Pipe at Corners and

Entrances

EXHIBIT C

EXHIBIT C

OFFSETS

Diagram and Example of Corner H-Brace for Fence with 15-ft Deadman

EXHIBIT D

Two Examples of Single Barbed Wire Across the Top of Fence

EXHIBIT E

Existing Fence Example with High-Game Fence Erected Behind Existing Fence

High-Game Pasture Fencing, Cameron County, TX

EXHIBIT F

Example of Existing Gate Entrance

Example of New Gate Entrance

EXHIBIT G

Example of Double H-Brace

EXHIBIT H

Example of Single 2-Barbed Wire

EXHIBIT I

8-ft Deadman

FIGURES

(For Reference Only)

Place of Performance: Fence Proposal #1 (Figures 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B and 3)

Yellow arrows indicate double gate for entry of powerline utility trucks.

Figures 1A and 1B. Location of Los Fresnos proposed fence extension

Yellow arrows indicate location of ranch gates. Two overlapping arrows indicate double gate.

Figures 2A and 2B. Location of Laguna Vista proposed fence extension

Figure 3. Fence Proposal #1. County-scale view of existing fence (yellow line) and proposed extensions (red lines)

Place of Performance: Fence Proposal #2 (Figures 5A and 5B)

Figure 5A. Fence Proposal #2. Cameron County, Jenkins Tract on Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

Figure 5B. Fence Proposal #2. Jenkins’ tract maps (yellow outline) and previously existing Boswell Tract (blue outline). A. County-level map B. Close up.

Figure 5B. Fence Proposal #2. Jenkins’ tract maps (yellow outline) and previously existing Boswell Tract (blue outline). A. County-level map B. Close up. White arrow indicates location of ranch gate.