B.01.01 - Solicitation - Released - 22 April 2020.pdf

Section A - Solicitation/Contract Form

SYNOPSIS/SOLICITATION

COMBINED SYNOPSIS/SOLICITATION

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in Subpart 12.6, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; proposals are being requested and a written solicitation will not be issued.

The solicitation number for this acquisition is W912DQ-20-R-1061 and it is being issued as a Request for Proposal (RFP).

The solicitation document and incorporated provisions and clauses are those in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC) 2019-01.

This RFQ shall be set aside for small businesses and the associated North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code is 561720 and the business size standard is $19.5M.

FAR 52.212-1, Instructions to Offerors – Commercial, does apply to this acquisition with no addenda to the provision.

FAR 52.212-2, Evaluation – Commercial Items, does apply to this acquisition. The specific evaluation criteria to be included are detailed in Section M of this combined synopsis/solicitation.

Offerors must include a completed copy of FAR 52.212-3, Offeror Representations and Certifications – Commercial Items, with its offer. This provision is included in Section I of this combined synopsis/solicitation.

FAR 52.212-4, Contract Terms and Conditions – Commercial Items, does apply to this acquisition with no addenda to the provision.

FAR 52.212-5, Contract Terms and Conditions Required to Implement Statutes or Executive Orders – Commercial Items, applies to this acquisition. The specific clauses required are detailed in Section I of this combined synopsis/solicitation.

Invasive Woody Vegetation Removal and Eradication, Rathbun Lake

The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, tools, materials, vehicles, supervision and other items and services necessary to perform park custodian services as described in the performance work statement (PWS). The contractor shall adhere to all local, state and federal regulations.

Past Performance Questionnaires, Experience Form and Solicitation return pages shall be returned to:

Delos C. Halterman delos.c.halterman2@usace.army.mil

Email Proposal will only be accepted for this project. Email in PDF format is the preferred method of proposal delivery.

ALL PROPOSALS ARE DUE NO LATER THAN 27 May 2020 AT 2:00

PM CENTRAL.

OFFERORS INTERESTED IN RESPONDING TO THIS RFP MUST SUBMIT THEIR

PROPOSAL ON THE ATTACHED SYNOPSIS/SOLICITATION. Award will be made to the offeror providing the best value. Any questions regarding this synopsis/solicitation must be submitted by e-mail to the point of contact below. The System for Award Management (SAM) is a Federal Government owned and operated FREE web site that consolidates the capabilities in CCR, ORCA, and EPLS. All vendors must verify their information through this web site. If you were previously registered in CCR and ORCA, your organization's information is already in SAM. You just need to set up a SAM account and migrate your CCR roles. If you were previously registered in CCR, your registration should have been moved to SAM, and you just need to open an account, see the following link for instructions:

https://www.sam.gov/sam/transcript/Quick_Guide_for_Updating_or_Renewing_CCR- SAM_Registrations.pdf

If you were not previously registered, please go to https://www.sam.gov. Instructions for new registration are also located at the following link https://www.sam.gov/sam/transcript/Quick_Guide_for_Contract_Registrations.pdf to register.

Contractors may obtain information on registration and annual confirmation requirements via the Internet at http://www.sam.gov or by calling (866) 606-8220.

If you have questions about Government procurements in general or need assistance in the preparation of your quote, a local Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) may be able to help. The Procurement Technical Assistance Program was authorized by Congress in 1985 in an effort to expand the number of businesses capable of participating in the Government marketplace. To locate a PTAC near you, go to http://www.aptac-us.org/contracting-assistance/.

The Government reserves the right to cancel this combined synopsis/solicitation. Any questions should be sent to Delos C. Halterman at (816) 389-3503 or at delos.c.halterman2@usace.army.mil.

(End of Synopsis) http://www.sam.gov/sam/transcript/Quick_Guide_for_Updating_or_Renewing_CCR-http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.sam.gov/sam/transcript/Quick_Guide_for_Contract_Registrations.pdf http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.aptac-us.org/contracting-assistance/ mailto:delos.c.halterman2@usace.army.mil

VENDOR’S INFORMATION

OFFEROR’S NAME:

OFFEROR’S ADDRESS:

OFFEROR’S PHONE #:

OFFEROR’S EMAIL:

OFFEROR’S DUNS #:

OFFEROR’S CAGE #:

SIGNATURE:

DATE SIGNED:

Section B - Supplies or Services and Prices

ITEM NO SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

0001 1 Job Vegetation Removal and Eradication

FFP

The Contractor shall furnish all labor, materials, equipment, tools, transportation, supervision, and perform all work required in accordance with the specifications and provisions in this specification.

FOB: Destination

NET AMT

ITEM NO SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

0002 1 Job OPTION Vegetation Removal and Eradication - Opt

FFP

The Contractor shall furnish all labor, materials, equipment, tools, transportation, supervision, and perform all work required in accordance with the specifications and provisions in this specification.

NET AMT

Section C - Descriptions and Specifications

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

Invasive Woody Vegetation Removal and Eradication

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Rathbun Lake Project Lake 20112 Hwy J5T; Centerville, IA 52544

1 GENERAL

The contract is to provide invasive vegetation removal and eradication. Effort includes such activities as mowing, pulling, shearing, hand cutting, herbicide application or any other means necessary in the eradication of targeted invasive vegetation located in and around prairie areas.

Invasive species targeted will consist of woody vegetation such as Olive (Autumn, Russian, Privet), Locust (Black), Honeysuckle (Common, Exotic Bush), Elm (Chinese, Siberian), Buckthorn, Multiflora Rose, Maple, Mulberry, Red Cedar or any other invasive plant determined to be detrimental to the health of the treated prairie.

1.1 PROJECT LOCATION

1.1.1 The Rathbun Lake Project is located on the Chariton River in Appanoose County, Iowa.

It is approximately 5 - miles north of Centerville, Iowa, and about 16 - miles north of the Iowa - Missouri state line. The project consists of two earthen dam embankments with a combined total length of 10,120-feet. The project also consists of dam appurtenances, an office, maintenance compound, and public use recreation areas and land. Many of the areas associated with the project are grass prairie that have become inundated with invasive woody vegetation. Grass prairies within the Rathbun Lake Project lands are categorized into two types, Prairies and Prairie Remnants.

1.1.1.1 Prairie Remnants are areas that have never been disturbed by plowing and where known to contain native plants specific to the local area. Native plant species within these areas are considered a precious resource. There are 6 prairie remnants totaling approximately

15.3 acres and considered first priority. Entities are highly encouraged to visit and walk each site.

1.1.1.2 Prairies contain native plant species that are not as sensitive as native plant species found within Prairie Remnants. There are 25 prairie areas identified totaling approximately 581.2 acres. Entities are highly encouraged to visit each site.

1.1.1.2.1 Additional information can be found in Appendix A and attached Maps.

1.1.2 Place of Performance: Refer to the attached overall map for the locations of individual areas. Eleven additional maps are attached identifying individual areas subject to invasive vegetation removal and eradication required in this contract.

1.2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE (POP) and HOURS OF OPERATION

1.2.1 Period of Performance: Base POP is 01 October 2020 (or upon award) through 30

September 2021. In the event the Government exercises an option period, the contract’s option POP is 01 October 2021 through 30 September 2022 (Option Period year 2)

1.2.2 Hours of Operation: Hours of operation are broken into two time periods. Time periods are Rec season and Non-rec season.

1.2.2.1 Non-rec Season: From 01-October to 01-May. Services may be performed Monday through Sunday between the hours of sunup to sundown. Work is permitted on the following holidays:

Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday President’s Day Columbus Day Veteran’s Day

1.2.2.2 Rec Season: From 01-May to 30-September. Services may be performed Monday through Friday between the hours of 0630 and 2030. Work is not permitted on the following holidays:

Memorial Day Independence Day Labor Day

1.2.2.2.1 Campgrounds are most busy during the weekends (Friday from 1200 through Sunday at 1500). Hours of operation within campgrounds, during rec season, shall be confined to the hours of 0730 to 1800 Monday through Thursday and 0730 to 1200 on Fridays unless prior approval from the COR is granted. Areas outside campgrounds may be serviced Monday through Friday between the hours of 0630 and 2030. In the event services must take place on Saturday or Sunday, acceptable areas of operation shall not include any area within campgrounds or directly around PUAs such as picnic shelters, beach areas, boat ramps etc.

1.2.2.2.2 The week of Memorial Day and Independence Day, contractors shall not perform services within campgrounds or directly around PUAs such as picnic shelters, beach areas, boat ramps, etc. Work in remote areas may be conducted during these weeks.

1.3 TYPE OF CONTRACT

1.3.1 The government will award a Firm Fixed Priced contract.

1.3.2 Contract will consist of 6 separate Prairie Remnant areas totaling approximately 15.3 acres and 16 separate Prairie areas totaling approximately 334.1 acres. The individual areas are indicated in table 1.3.2.

Prairie Remnant Areas Prairie Areas continued AREA ID ACRES PG. of

CLIN AREA ID ACRES PG. of

CLIN

200 6.1 4 0001A 505-558 33.2 2 0001C 200-B 0.3 5 0001A 346 12.7 2 0001D 215 0.4 4 0001A 500-346 11.9 2 0001D 246-1 4.7 3 0001A 217 21.8 4 0001E 420 3.4 8 0001A 264-218-2 23.6 5 0001E 500-346-B 0.4 2 0001A 128 21.9 5 0001E Prairie Areas 430-431 40.7 9 0001F 134-200 45.6 5 0001B 430-431-B 19.8 9 0001F 200 9.6 5 0001B 147 4.1 12 0001G 129-131-134 38.2 6 0001B 218-1 8.3 4 0001G 500 18.2 2 0001C 222 16.1 11 0001G 505-506 8.5 2 0001C Please see attached maps for area locations. Table

1.3.2

1.3.3 An additional 9 separate Prairie areas totaling approximately 247.1 acres have been identified and may or may not be executed during this contract. The individual areas are indicated in table 1.3.3.

Prairie Areas AREA ID ACRES PAGE * of

AREA ID ACRES PAGE * of

100-1 24.2 7 432-1 8.8 10 100-1-B 27 12 450 40 10 300-1 11.2 12 450-432-1 44.7 10 301 34.8 12 Please see attached maps for area locations.

Table 1.3.3

313-300-2 38.7 12 413 17.7 8

1.3.4 This is a best value contract selection process. Contractors are encouraged to provide all pertinent information with the offer, such as resumes, past performance questionnaires, equipment lists, references that demonstrate the qualities that are supportive to satisfactory contract performance and planned procedures or recommendations that validates efficiency and best value.

1.3.5 The Contractor is responsible for the requirements of this contract and is encouraged to review the document in detail and to provide inquiries to the Government as necessary prior to preparing a proposal. The Contractor is also encouraged to visit the project to obtain an onsite understanding of the areas associated with the contract requirements.

1.3.6 The offer shall include a list of currently owned or leased equipment that demonstrates the work can be completed as required by contract. Government reserves the right to inspect all equipment prior to contract award.

1.3.6.1 In the event a Contractor submitting a proposal does not currently own or lease all required equipment needed to meet contract necessities for work and it is only essential for that entity to possess such equipment should the contract be awarded to them, the entity may provide documentation listing the additional equipment they will obtain to meet the contract requirements.

1.3.6.2 Sub-contracting equipment and labor is an acceptable approach to providing the equipment needed to meet contract requirements. Should the Contractor not possess a piece of equipment and determines it is more economical to sub-contract a service rather than owning or leasing the equipment, the offer shall include any equipment, labor or service intend to be sub-contracted.

1.3.7 Entities making a proposal are encouraged to provide their own recommendations. The goal is to permit Contractors maximum flexibility to propose solutions that offers them increase efficiencies and reduces costs. The Government will review all innovative solutions to ensure solutions meet objectives and intent of the contract. Any solution or recommendation that is found to meet the objectives and intent and indeed does provide better efficiencies or a cost savings will be incorporated into the PWS. The Government and Contractor shall bilaterally agree upon the changes prior to contract award and update the PWS to reflect the solution(s).

1.4 SECURITY

1.4.1 Security Requirements: The Contractor must pre-screen Candidates using the E-verify

Program (http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify) website to meet the established employment eligibility requirements. The Vendor must ensure that the Candidate has two valid forms of Government issued identification prior to enrollment to ensure the correct information is entered into the E-verify system. An initial list of verified/eligible Candidates must be provided to the COR no later than 7 business days after the initial contract award. When contracts are with individuals, the individuals will be required to complete a Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, with the designated Government representative.

This Form will be provided to the Contracting Officer and shall become part of the official contract file.

1.4.1.1 Exemptions: Per the E-Verify Website the following exemptions apply: employers whose contracts are exempt from the E-Verify federal contractor rule are not required to enroll in E-Verify. A contract is considered exempt if any one of the following applies:

(1) it is for fewer than 120 days. (2) It is valued at less than $150,000, the simplified acquisition threshold (Source: http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify/federal-contractors/exemptions-and-exceptions)

1.4.2 Minimal Requirements: Only personnel compliant with the requirements of this contract are authorized to perform the work of this contract. The Contractor shall submit all personnel information to the Government sufficient to perform background checks. The Government may obtain the fingerprints of personnel performing work of this contract.

1.4.3 Government Property: The Contractor shall include measures to ensure the security of Government property. The Contractor shall establish and implement methods to ensure Government provided keys for the Contractor’s use are used only for the purposes of this contract, are not lost or misplaced, and are not used by unauthorized persons or for unauthorized purposes. The Contractor shall immediately report to the Government lost or misplaced keys or any other items that may pose a security risk.

1.5 PERSONNEL:

1.5.1 Personnel shall be required to adhere to the following standards of dress and conduct while performing work at the project sites. These regulations are enforceable as per the US Army Corps of Engineers Safety and Health Requirements Manual, EM 385-1-1, 2014.

1.5.1.1 Employees shall always be properly equipped with the required personal protective and safety equipment.

1.5.1.2 Contractor and employees will maintain personal hygiene.

1.5.1.3 Shall not engage in loud or boisterous behavior or use profane or abusive language.

1.5.1.4 Shall not use intoxicating beverages and/or drugs at the work site.

1.5.1.5 Possession of weapons on site is prohibited.

1.5.2 Parking Regulations: Contractor employees may park privately owned vehicles in the area designated for parking by the COR. Ensure employees park in the appropriate designated parking areas. The Government will not invalidate or make reimbursement for parking violations under any conditions.

1.5.3 Key Personnel: Certain experienced professional and/or technical personnel are essential for successful accomplishment of the work to be performed under this contract. Such personnel shall not be removed or replaced without compliance with the following:

1.5.3.1 If one or more of the key personnel, for any reason, becomes or is expected to become unavailable for work under this contract for a continuous period exceeding 30 work days, or is expected to devote substantially less effort to the work than indicated in the proposal or initially anticipated, promptly replace personnel with personnel of equal http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify/federal-contractors/exemptions-and-exceptions http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify/federal-contractors/exemptions-and-exceptions ability and qualifications, subject to the concurrence of the Contracting Officer or an authorized representative.

1.5.3.2 All requests for approval of substitutions hereunder shall be in writing and provide a detailed explanation of the circumstances necessitating the proposed substitutions. The request shall contain a resume for the proposed substitute, and any other information requested by the Contracting Officer. The Contracting Officer will notify the Contractor of approval or disapproval in writing.

1.5.3.3 The contractor shall provide a contract manager who shall be responsible for the performance of the work. The name of this person and an alternate who shall act for the contractor when the manager is absent shall be designated in writing to the contracting officer. The contract manager or alternate shall have full authority to act for the contractor on all contract matters relating to daily operation of this contract. The contract manager or alternate shall be available between 8:00 a.m. to 4:30p.m. Monday thru Friday except Federal holidays or when the government facility is closed for administrative reasons.

1.5.3.4 The Contract Manager, Supervisor and Jobsite Foreperson shall be fluent in the English language.

1.5.4 The follow personnel are considered key personnel by the government. They are listed below along with their qualifications:

1.5.4.1 Contract Manager: Provide a Contract Manager (CM) who is responsible for the administration of the contract, ensuring requirements are performed as per contract.

1.5.4.2 Supervisor/ Quality Control Manager: Provide a full time Supervisor who may also serve as the Quality Control Manager per existing specifications. The Supervisor is responsible for oversight in carrying out the directions of the CM as it pertains to the contract requirements. The CQC manager shall ensure quality control of all project requirements and reporting to the CM in a timely manner.

1.5.4.3 Jobsite Foreperson: The Jobsite Foreperson (JF) shall be responsible for carrying out the Supervisor’s orders and for handling crews performing the contract requirements. The JF shall always be on site when crews are working.

1.5.4.4 Chemical Applicator(s): The chemical applicator(s) shall have experience applying herbicides in both broadcast and spot applications in either native prairie projects or agricultural applications. The chemical applicator(s) shall be a licensed herbicide applicator. The chemical applicator(s) is responsible for application of herbicides.

1.6 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

1.6.1 The Contractor shall follow all safety regulations and shall comply with the most current edition of USACE EM 385‐1‐1, and all applicable Federal, State, and local laws, ordinances, criteria, rules and regulations.

1.6.2 Site-Specific Accident Prevention Plan (APP): The Contractor shall prepare and submit a site-specific APP compliant with EM 385-1-1, Safety and Health Requirements Manual (30 November 2014). The document is accessible at:

http://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Publications/EngineerManuals/EM_3 85-1-1.pdf The Contractor is to refer to Appendix A, “Minimum Basic Outline for Accident Prevention Plans” of EM 385-1-1. A Site-Specific Accident Prevention Plan Template is attached in Appendix D of this PWS.

http://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Publications/EngineerManuals/EM_385-1-1.pdf http://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Publications/EngineerManuals/EM_385-1-1.pdf

1.6.2.1 The Contractor shall use a qualified person to prepare the written site‐specific Accident Prevention Plan (APP). The Contractor shall prepare the APP in accordance with the format and requirements of USACE EM 385‐1‐1. The APP shall cover all paragraph and subparagraph elements IAW USACE EM 385‐1‐1, Appendix A, “Minimum Basic Outline for Accident Prevention Plan.” The Activity Hazard Analysis (AHA) format shall be in accordance with USACE EM 385‐1‐1, Section 1. The Contractor shall use the AHA during daily inspections to ensure the implementation and effectiveness of the activity's safety and health controls.

1.6.3 The Contractor shall report all accidents to the Safety Office through the Technical POC, within the same shift during which the accident(s) occur, as soon after the accident as is practical. The Contractor shall complete an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Form 300 in relation to any accident and submit ENG 3394 to the Safety Office within 5 days of an accident. The Contractor shall stop work in the event of serious injury or damage, leaving everything in place exactly as it was at the time of the accident, except when there is the possibility that more damage or injury would or could occur if things are left in place.

1.7 INSURANCE

Prior to each POP and prior to beginning work of this contract, the Contractor shall provide to the

TYPE/DESCRIPTION COVERAGE

Workmen’s Compensation Coverage complying with applicable State statute Employer’s Liability $100,000 (minimum) General Liability/Bodily Injury $500,000 (minimum) per occurrence

Automobile Liability

$200,000 (minimum) per person $500,000 (minimum) per occurrence $ 20,000 (minimum) property per occurrence

1.7.1 Coverage amounts listed above are minimums. If higher limits of coverage are required by State statute, the Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining such additional coverage, and the Contractor shall provide to the Government documentation demonstrating compliance with the State statute. Information regarding State requirements may be obtained by contacting the Iowa Insurance Division at 515-281- 5705.

1.7.2 The Contractor shall maintain the required insurance coverage throughout the duration of each POP.

1.8 GOVERNMENT PROVIDED SERVICES, EQUIPMENT, AND SUPPLIES

1.8.1 Water for mixing as required with the approved chemicals.

1.8.1.1 Water source within the Rathbun Lake Project Administration compound is a secure facility. Access to the water source will be during regular workdays between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

1.8.1.2 Contractor may also utilize water from Corps dump stations located in the campgrounds.

1.8.2 Keys: The Contractor shall not make or have copies made of the keys. Failure to return the Government furnished keys as required by contract, may result in the Contractor being finically responsible for rekeying and or replacing locks and duplicating keys.

1.8.3 Electronic files identifying individual areas. Government will provide the contractor shape files or KMZ files identifying the work area so contractor can utilize GPS System.

1.9 POST AWARD

1.9.1 Authorities/Technical Direction: Take no direction from any Government employee or any other person other than the Government Contracting Officer that changes the terms and conditions of this contract action, the scope, or any change that impacts the cost, price or schedule. Changes authorized by the Contracting Officer will be in the form of a written, official, signed modification to the contract action before any changes can be made. Comply with the Changes clause of this contract when direction has been given from persons other than the Government Contracting Officer that equate to a change by notifying the Contracting Officer as directed by the clause. Any direction given by any Government employee or any other person outside their authority shall be reported to the Contracting Officer. Contracting Officer’s Representatives are limited to the authorities stated in the COR appointment letters. If a COR is appointed under this contract, they will be appointed by written letter from the Contracting Officer to the Contractor and designating the COR specific to this contract only.

1.9.2 Contracting Officer Representative (COR): The COR will be identified by separate letter.

The COR monitors all technical aspects of the contract and assists in contract administration. The COR is authorized to perform the following functions: assure that the Contractor performs the technical requirements of the contract; perform inspections necessary in connection with contract performance; maintain written and oral communications with the Contractor concerning technical aspects of the contract; issue written interpretations of technical requirements, including Government drawings, designs, specifications; monitor Contractor's performance and notifies both the Contracting Officer and Contractor of any deficiencies; coordinate availability of government furnished property, and provide site entry of Contractor personnel. A letter of designation issued to the COR, a copy of which is sent to the Contractor, states the responsibilities and limitations of the COR, especially with regard to changes in cost or price, estimates or changes in delivery dates. The COR is not authorized to change any of the terms and conditions of the resulting order.

1.9.2.1 After award of the contract, documents and correspondence from the Contractor to the Government shall be to the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) at the Rathbun Lake Project Office.

1.9.3 Within three (3) Government working days of award, the Contractor shall provide Contractor contact information, such as home telephone, cell phone, email address, and postal mail address. The Contractor shall identify modes of available communication, such as email, texting, and voicemail. If the Contractor plans to use other personnel, such as quality control personnel, for Government contact, the Contractor shall provide the same contact information to the Government upon selection of personnel assignments.

1.9.4 Post Award Conference/Periodic Progress Meetings: The Contractor agrees to attend any post award conference convened by the contract administrator. The Contracting Officer, COR, and other Government personnel, as appropriate, may meet periodically with the contractor to review the contractor's performance. At these meetings the Contracting Officer will apprise the contractor of how the government views the contractor's performance and the contractor will apprise the Government of problems, if any, being experienced. Appropriate action shall be taken to resolve outstanding issues. These meetings shall be at no additional cost to the government.

1.9.5 SUBMITTALS

1.9.5.1 Prior to each POP and as required by this contract, the Contractor shall provide to the

Government the submittals identified within this contract and submittals that are identified as necessary to ensure performance compliance. The Contractor shall allow five working days for Government review of each submittal. The Government will respond to the Contractor’s submittals with email, fax, or postal mail per the Contractor’s requested preference to the Government. The Government’s approval of submittals shall not be construed as a complete check of the contract requirements.

Government approval will be an indication of a satisfactory submittal of the general method of compliance with the requirements of the contract. Government approval will not relieve the Contractor of the responsibility for contract compliance. Government disapproved submittals shall be resubmitted by the Contractor addressing corrections and contract compliance. At the discretion of the Government, the Contractor may be directed by the Government to proceed with work in advance the submittals; however, the Contractor shall practice due diligence and continuity with the submittal process.

One copy of each submittal shall be provided as follows:

1.9.5.2 Personnel: The Contractor shall submit personnel information in accordance with the requirements of this contract to include employees and sub-contractors.

1.9.5.3 Performance Work Plan: The Contractor shall submit a performance work plan. If the Government has comments, the Contractor shall meet with the Government prior to performing the work of this contract to resolve all comments. The plan shall address, as a minimum:

1.9.5.3.1 Means and methods to accomplish the work required in the contract.

1.9.5.3.2 Project schedule identifying the timing activities will be performed.

1.9.5.3.3 List all equipment and tools required to perform the contract services.

1.9.5.3.4 List proposed chemicals for each application to include manufacture labels, SDS sheets and chemical rates.

1.9.5.4 Antiterrorism and Operation Security Requirement: The Contractor shall submit as required per section 1.6.

1.9.5.5 Site-Specific Accident Prevention Plan (APP): The Contractor shall prepare and submit a site-specific APP compliant with the requirements of this contract. See Appendix D for Accident Prevention Plan Template.

1.9.5.6 Quality Control Plan (QCP): The Contractor shall submit to the Government the Contractor Quality Control Plan in accordance with these contract requirements. See Appendix C for Quality Control Plan Template.

1.9.5.7 Chemicals: The Contractor shall submit copies of all applicator’s certification as a commercial pesticide applicator and Pesticide Application Record sheets.

1.9.5.8 Insurance: Prior to the beginning of each POP, the Contractor shall submit proof of insurance as required by this contract.

1.9.5.9 Payment and Invoices: NOTE: All invoices shall reflect the contract number (Block 2 of the SF-1449), contain the exact name as registered in SAMS and the final invoice must be marked “FINAL.”

1.9.5.9.1 Contract Payments: Payment is NET 30. The Government will pay the Contractor upon submission of proper invoices for the supply/service delivered and accepted for the portion of the work performed under this contract. Payment will be made as indicated in the contract’s Payment Schedule; payment is not based on percentage of completion. Deliverables as defined in the Payment Schedule of the contract require acceptance by the Government before payment will be made. For any payment questions, contact the COR.

1.9.5.9.2 Invoices: Shall be submitted monthly. Each line item on an invoice shall give a description including the Contract Line Item Number (CLIN). Upon receipt, the Contracting Officer will certify that the requested amounts are appropriate before payment will be made. Invoices shall include all necessary information, including any necessary supporting documentation required as part of this Performance Work Statement. All invoices shall reflect the contract number, see Black 2 of the Standard Form 1449.

1.9.5.9.3 Contractor Exposure Hours: The Contractor shall track the number of man hours each month to perform the services of this contract. The total number of man hours per month shall be submitted to the Government with the monthly invoice.

Copies of all submittals and invoices shall be provided to the following:

Postal mail or Drop off to:

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Rathbun Lake Project 20112 Hwy J5T Centerville, Iowa 52544 Attn: Raymond Frana or email to: Raymond.H.Frana@usace.army.mil It is the Contractor’s responsibility to confirm Government receipt of emails.

1.10 QUALITY CONTROL

1.10.1 The Quality Control Plan (QCP) is the means by which the Contractor assures himself and the COR that adequate inspections of work performance are being conducted so that all work meets contract specifications. The Contractor’s QCP shall be established and maintained for all services included in the contract and shall include the surveillance required to ensure all contract specifications regarding schedule compliance, proper equipment, materials, and work performance are met.

1.10.1.1 The Quality Control Plan must minimally include:

1.10.1.1.1 A description of the inspection system for all services listed on the Performance

Requirements Summary (PRS). The description must specify a monitoring strategy and include both the frequency and location of inspections, and the titles and organizational placement of the inspectors.

1.10.1.1.2 A description of the methods to be used for identifying and preventing defects in the quality of service performed.

1.10.1.1.3 A description of the records to be kept to document inspections and corrective or preventive actions taken and a mock up copy of a Quality Control (QC) Report showing all items under the PWS. The QC Report should have space for notes detailing problems which occurred during operations, information on any items needing attention or any deviation from normal operations.

1.10.1.1.4 Records of Quality Control inspections must be kept and made available to the COR, on a daily basis, throughout the contract performance period and for the period after contract completion until final settlement of any claims under this contract. The QC Report shall include spaces for supervisors and workers to acknowledge safety inspections of vehicles and equipment; and a check of the work area for unusual mailto:Raymond.H.Frana@usace.army.mil conditions, safety hazards, and vandalism. Spaces will also be made for tracking ongoing work for quality of workmanship and adherence to safety procedures so as to insure contract compliance. Information will be provided by the Contractor for any action needing correction by the Contractor or the Government. All completed work shall be inspected for quality of workmanship and contract compliance with accompanying documentation on the QC Report. All QC Reports for the five irrigated HMUs shall be placed in the mail box provided at the irrigation pump plants and remain until verified by the QC representative and signed by the Contractor employee completing the work and the QC representative. Upon signing the QC report the report shall be electronically sent in a PDF format to the COR or representative on a daily basis or as information becomes available. Signed QC reports are used by the Government to determine what work has been completed successfully and will be used to determine Quality Assurance inspection timeframes and payment.

1.10.2 The Contractor shall also be responsible for controlling work quality through an effective quality control program involving management, training, and sufficient inspections of all work items including those of their subcontractor (s) to insure compliance with all contract requirements. The QCP shall be structured to include a Quality Control Supervisor and support personnel as necessary to perform quality control. The Quality Control Supervisor and /or designee(s) shall be employed directly by the Contractor as part of their assigned duties of the Contractor’s field organization. The Quality Control Supervisor must have experience in quality control work and must be able to train others in providing accurate Quality Control Inspections.

1.11 QUALITY ASSURANCE

1.11.1 The Government will evaluate the Contractor’s performance under this contract for those tasks listed on the Performance Work Statement (PWS), to establish acceptance of monthly invoices and as the basis for payment. The COR or Quality Assurance (QA) evaluators will follow the methods of surveillance specified in the Performance Requirements Summary (PRS); generally periodic inspections will be employed.

Government personnel will record all QA inspections, and the COR will retain such records. The Government will perform inspections to verify the Contractor’s QC Reports and to provide the basis for final acceptance of contract work.

1.11.2 Deficiencies. If Contractor services do not conform to contract requirements, the Government may require the Contractor to perform the services again to comply with contract requirements at no additional expense to the Government. A written notice of deficiencies to be corrected, with a determination of whether the work can be re-performed or not, will be given to the Contractor or designated representative. The Contractor shall have three (3) calendar days from the date of a written notice to acknowledge the problem, state what corrective action was taken, and a plan for ensuring the deficiency does not occur again. If recurring deficiencies in an item or items indicate that the QC Program is not adequate, corrective actions shall be taken as directed by the COR. This may include the assignment of additional QC personnel without additional cost to the Government.

2 DEFINITIONS, ABREVIATIONS, AND ACRONYMS

2.1 General: The Contractor is to review the PWS and ensure an understanding of definitions, abbreviations, and acronyms used throughout the PWS (text and drawings). The list within Section 2.1 may not be all inclusive of those used with the PWS (text and drawings).

2.1.1 Accident Prevention Plan (APP): Document developed and utilized by the Contractor to minimize the risk of accidents during the performance of the contract requirements.

2.1.2 Best Value: Best Value assessment is compliant with FAR 8.404 and to the extent the item will best be of use to the project location and description.

2.1.3 Contracting Officer (KO): Primary Government contracting representative for this contract.

2.1.4 Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR): Individual designated and authorized in writing by the Contracting Officer to perform specific technical and/or administrative functions regarding the contract.

2.1.5 Contractor: Company structure including partners, officers, and employees with interest in the contract. For the purposes of this contract it may also be a reference to Contractor or employee of the Contractor.

2.1.6 Defect or Deficiency: A Contractor output that does not meet the standard of performance specified in the contract.

2.1.7 Fully-Clothed: Contract requirement for the Contractor and Contractor’s employees to be professionally attired, such as with appropriate shirt, trousers, and shoes that also includes compliance with safety requirements.

2.1.8 Major Holidays: For the purposes of this contract, the major holidays are Memorial Day, 4th of July (Independence Day), and Labor Day.

2.1.9 Period of Performance (POP): The contract time table for performance of services. As necessary, there may be contract activities required outside the POP dates, such as coordination and the pre-work conference. For this contract the Contractor is to refer to Paragraph, Period of Performance, for the POP dates.

2.1.10 Public Use Area (PUA): Areas within the project limits that are generally accessible to the public except under certain circumstances.

2.1.11 Performance Work Statement (PWS): Document that is part of the contract that defines the products and services.

2.1.12 Quality Assurance (QA): A Government process to monitor/provide some measure of quality assurance of the contract requirements.

2.1.13 Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP): A document used by Government for quality assurance surveillance.

2.1.14 Quality Control (QC): Contractor requirement and processes to control and ensure the quality of goods and services provided in accordance with the contract.

2.1.15 Service Contract: A contract that directly engages the time and effort of a Contractor with at least part of the contract purpose to perform an identifiable task or tasks. The service contract may cover services performed by either professional or nonprofessional personnel or by an individual or organization as identified within these contract documents.

2.1.16 Standard of Performance: The standard of performance is Contractor compliance with the requirements of this Contract.

2.1.17 Sub-contractor: Any individual meeting the requirements set forth in Department of Labor (DOL) and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations; Reference https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-regs/subcontractorstext.prn.pdf.

2.1.18 Trash: Any abandoned articles, manmade or natural such as paper, cups, cans, bottles, litter, branches, limbs, sticks or similar waste items encountered during the services of this contract. Refer to the paragraph, LOST ITEMS, for those items that are apparent not to be trash but may have been lost or misplaced by the Government or the public.

2.1.19 Acceptable Level of Performance: The metric required for the specified goods and services compliance with the contract.

2.1.20 Herbicide/Chemical/Pesticide: The terms herbicide, chemical, and pesticide will be used interchangeably or in some instances in combination throughout the contract.

2.1.21 Pre-emergence Herbicide: Pre-emergence herbicides are defined for application prior to weed seedlings emergence through the soil surface and for the purpose of eliminating the weeds prior to emergence.

2.1.22 Post-emergence Herbicide: Post-emergence herbicides are defined for application after the crop (at applicable locations) or weed seedlings have emerged through the soil surface.

2.1.23 Non-Selective Herbicide: Non-selective herbicides are defined for application to eliminate both broadleaf and grass weeds.

2.1.24 Burndown Herbicide: Burndown herbicide is a full spectrum herbicide that eliminates broadleaf and grass weeds and woody vegetation and in effect eliminating all growth within a coverage area.

2.1.25 Complete Coverage: Complete coverage is herbicide chemicals application over the entire defined coverage area regardless if there is plant or woody vegetation growth.

2.1.26 Spot Treatment: Spot treatment is herbicide chemical application to target woody vegetation. This chemical application method is to provide limited treatment within a designated prairei area so that chemicals are only applied where needed, limiting unnecessary chemical use, exposure and protecting not targeted plants.

2.1.27 Basal Bark Applications: Basal Bark Application is useful in selectively controlling undesirable woody species, and treatment can be done during the dormant season when nearby herbaceous plants will not be harmed. Two basal bark application methods are recommended: conventional basal bark and thin line basal bark.

2.1.27.1 Conventional basal bark application is mixing herbicide with a basal oil carrier and applying the solution to the base of trees or shrub stems from the ground to about 12 to 15” above the ground.

2.1.27.2 Thin-line basal bark application offers a preferred alternative to conventional basal bark application. It requires applying a thin line of full-strength or minimally diluted, bark-penetrating herbicide all around the basal parts of trees or brush. Because a relatively small amount of herbicide is used, potential damage to non-target species is reduced, and fewer refills are required.

2.1.28 Cut Surface Application: Cut Surface Application is the application of herbicide to a freshly cut tree or shrub stump and is more effective than basal-bark applications on woody stems greater than 5” in diameter or on thick-barked species.

2.1.29 Hack-and-Squirt Application: Hack-and-Squirt Application introduces herbicide into the stem using cuts made below the last live branch, around the trunk penetrating through the bark into the sapwood. Using a hatchet or similar device, create a downward-angled cupped incisions, spaced around the stem, one per inch of diameter (two cuts minimum) and fill the cupped incision with a dyed herbicide solution.

2.1.30 Mowing: The operation of any equipment used to cut vegetation weather the equipment is rotary, flail or drum designed. This equipment is most generally referred to as Brush Cutter, Bush Hog, Batwing, Timber Axe, Fecon, etc.

2.1.31 Shearing: The operation of any mechanized equipment to cut trees at ground surface.

This equipment most generally referred to as tree share or tree saw.

2.1.32 Pulling: The operation of equipment designed to grasp plants and pull up exposing the root system. This equipment is most generally referred to as a tree puller.

2.1.33 Hand Cut: The use of hand operated saws such as bow saw, chainsaw or any other hand tool used to cut woody vegetation.

2.1.34 Removal: Removal of woody plants within this PWS is cutting individual woody plants at no more than 4” above ground. It does not entail transporting cut material off project limits but may entail moving woody debris to a pile located within the project limits as designated by the COR or Government representative.

3 SPECIFICATIONS

3.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

3.1.1 The Contractor shall furnish all labor, materials, equipment, tools, transportation, supervision, and perform all work required in accordance with the specifications and provisions in this specification.

3.1.2 Work under this contract shall not be performed when ground or access road conditions will result in damage to access roads or to natural resources. If precipitation makes the ground wet enough to cause rutting, then work will be suspended until conditions are fit or the contractor can bring in machinery with a lighter ground pressure, for example a PSI of less than 4.0 that will not cause ruts. Soil ruts deeper than 2 inches or covering more than 10% of the designated work area shall be avoided or mitigated by the contractor.

3.1.3 Work shall include cleaning all equipment used prior to entering project sites. All equipment must be cleaned prior to coming on site to remove any invasive plant species seeds. Power washing or compressed air cleaning is an adequate cleaning method. COR or designated inspectors shall inspect equipment upon being brought onto project for the first time, or subsequent returns if the equipment is taken off site and returned.

3.1.4 Work shall entail removal and eradication of woody species within prairies which can be accomplished in multiple ways. Exact means and methods are up to the contractor. For example the contractor may choose to kill woody vegetation by spot applying herbicides then removing dead vegetation, they may choose to remove vegetation then spot apply herbicide to kill the plant, they may choose to use equipment to pull plants from the ground exposing the root system or any other means and method.

3.1.4.1 Contractor shall develop a “Performance Work Plan” that contains solutions to accomplish objectives, as applicable to the services required in the Schedule. Use whatever method necessary to meet the objectives, as long as the end result satisfies the contract requirements as defined in the Performance Requirements Summary contained in Appendix B and complies with the terms of the contract. The work will be evaluated based on the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP), see Appendix E. The QASP includes indicators of success for each of the performance objectives.

3.2 WOODY VEGETAION REMOVAL

3.2.1 Autumn Olive, Honeysuckle, Buckthorn, Multiflora Rose and any other shrub greater than 30” tall and ¼” diameter shall be removed.

3.2.2 All trees and saplings less than 3” in Diameter Brest Height (DBH), Red Cedar, Locust, Mulberry, and Elm species 12” DBH, shall be removed. Dead trees, trees with loose bark or any tree that provides unique habitat, as determined by the COR or designated Government representative shall be excluded from this requirement.

3.2.3 Stumps less than or equal to 4” diameter shall not be greater than 4-5” above ground level. Stumps greater than 4” diameter shall be cut no more than 2 inches above ground.

3.2.4 Any plant removed by pulling shall have all soil within the root system dislodged back into the same spot the plant was pulled from.

3.2.5 Woody debris shall be managed to minimally hinder the growth of native prairie plants.

This can be achieved in multiple ways such as:

3.2.5.1 Woody debris may be sporadically placed within grass areas as directed by the COR or designated Government representative. Grass must cover more than 40% of the zone and/or provide adequate fuel to incinerate the debris during a controlled burn.

3.2.5.2 Woody debris may be placed in burn or habitat piles as directed by the COR or designated Government representative. Pile locations will generally be in areas where native prairie vegetation is minimal due shading from larger patches of woody vegetation or placed directly outside the area boundary.

3.2.5.3 Materials may be mulched, shredded, chopped or chipped using mechanical methods.

Excess debris shall not cover more than 75% of the ground and be more than 3 inches thick unless otherwise approved by the COR or designated Government representative.

Equipment used to cut, mulch, shred, chop shall not till the soils or cause erosion.

3.3 HERBICIDE APPLICATION

3.3.1 Applicators must possess a Commercial Pesticide License

3.3.2 Woody vegetation meeting criteria in section 3.2 shall be eradicated by the application of suitable herbicides.

3.3.3 Application of herbicide used to target woody vegetation shall be spot treatment in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and the manufacturer’s instructions.

3.3.3.1 The contractor shall apply all chemicals in a manner that does not cause general damage and protects all non-targeted areas and native plant species from damage.

3.3.3.2 The Contractor shall submit to the Government, within two days…