B01-RSOI Package W9126G252SOI6026 Edwards AFB NR Support.pdf

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, FORT WORTH DISTRICT

P.O. BOX 17300

FORT WORTH, TX 76102-0300

27 June 2025

REQUEST FOR STATEMENT OF INTEREST

W9126G-25-2-SOI-6026

Applicants must be a member in one of the following Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units Regions: Colorado Plateau and Californian Regions

Project Title: Natural Resources Support for Edwards AFB, CA

A cooperative agreement is being offered ONLY to members of the Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units (CESU) Program Region(s) identified above. Award will be made upon mutual agreement and acceptance of the terms and conditions contained in the request for proposal and the recipient’s CESU Joint and Cooperative Agreement (also known as the CESU Master Agreement).

Note the established CESU Program indirect rate is 17.5%.

Responses to this Request for Statements of Interest will be used to identify potential organizations for this project. Approximately $562,725.00 is expected to be available to support this project for the Base Period. Additional funding may be available to the successful recipient for optional tasks and/or follow on work in subsequent years.

NOTE: This project will be awarded under the authority of 16 USC 670c-1, Sikes Act.

For projects for the implementation and enforcement of integrated natural resources management plans, priority shall be given to award to Federal and State agencies having responsibility for the conservation or management of fish or wildlife.

Period of Performance. The base period of the agreement will extend 18 months from the date of award. There may be up to five 18-month follow-on periods based on availability of funding.

Description of Anticipated Work: See attached Statement of Objectives

NOTE: At this time, we are only requesting that you demonstrate available qualifications and capability for performing similar or same type of work by submitting a Statement of Interest. A full proposal and budget are NOT requested at this time.

Preparation of your Statement of Interest: Provide the following (Maximum length: 2 pages, single-spaced, 12 pt. font):

1. Name, Organization, CAGE Code, Unique Entity ID, CESU Region, and Contact Information (Email)

2. Brief Statement of Qualifications (including):

10 March 2025

a. Biographical sketch of the Principal Investigator, to include specific experience and capabilities in areas related to this project’s requirements

b. Relevant past projects and clients with brief descriptions of these projects

c. Staff, faculty or students available to work on this project and their areas of expertise

d. Brief description of other capabilities to successfully complete the project:

(e.g. equipment, laboratory facilities, greenhouse facilities, field facilities, etc.)

Submission of Your Statement of Interest

1. Statements of Interest (SOI) are due by 2:00 P.M., Central Time, on 28 July 2025 via email to the parties listed below.

2. Direct questions no later than 14 July 2025 to the parties listed below.

Nicholas Aprea Grants Specialist USACE, Fort Worth District Email: Nicholas.A.Aprea@usace.army.mil Phone: (817) 886-1925

David Leptien Project Manager USACE, Fort Worth District Email: David.B.Leptien@usace.army.mil Phone: (402) 889-5570

Review of Statements Received: All statements of interest received from a member of the CESU Region(s) identified above will be evaluated by a board comprised of one or more people at the receiving installation or activity, who will determine which statement(s) best meet the program objectives, offer the most highly qualified Principal Investigator, have the most relevant experience and the highest capability to successfully meet the program objectives. Submitters whose statements are determined to best meet the program objectives will be invited to submit a full proposal.

Timeline for Review of Statements of Interest: RSOIs are required to be posted on www.Grants.gov for 30 days prior to the Government making a decision and requesting full proposals.

TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR AWARD, THE RECIPIENT AND ANY PROPOSED

SUBRECIPIENTS AND CONTRACT VENDORS MUST HAVE AN ACTIVE NIST SP

800-171 DOD ASSESSEMENT (PERFORMED WITHIN THE LAST 3

YEARS). Additional details are provided as a separate attachment to this document.

mailto:Nicholas.A.Aprea@usace.army.mil mailto:David.B.Leptien@usace.army.mil http://www.grants.gov/

10 March 2025

Thank you for your interest in our Cooperative Agreements Program.

CHERYL R. VENDEMIA

Grants Officer

Attachment: Statement of Objectives

STATEMENT OF OBJECTIVES

for

NATURAL RESOURCES SUPPORT ACTIVITIES (FY2025)

on

EDWARDS AFB, CALIFORNIA

15 May 2025

1.0 PURPOSE

1.1 The Edwards Air Force Base (EAFB) environmental program ensures military mission activities are conducted in compliance with all applicable environmental laws, regulations and policies with cooperation and assistance from the Air Force Civil Engineer Center's (AFCEC) Installation Support Section (ISS). Article I B of the master agreement states the objectives of the CESU are to: provide research, technical assistance and education to federal land management, environmental and research agencies and their potential partners; develop a program of research, technical assistance and education that involves the biological, physical, social sciences needed to address resource issues and interdisciplinary problem-solving at multiple scales and in an ecosystem context at the local, regional, and national levels; and place special emphasis on the working collaboration among federal agencies and universities and their related partner institutions.

1.2 The work will involve natural resource management activities, field surveys, reporting, coordination, and travel to and from EAFB.

2.0 AUTHORITY

Authority to enter into a Cooperative Agreements (CA) for the work: Section 670c-1, Title 16 United States Code, Sikes Act.

2.1. In agreement with the above stated goals, the Non-Federal Entity (NFE) agrees to provide the necessary personnel, equipment, and materials required to implement, in part, the EAFB responsibilities pursuant to the Endangered Species Act (16 USC 1531 et seq.), the Sikes Act Improvement Act, the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), and applicable implementing regulations, such as Air Force Manual 32-7003, Environmental Conservation; Grant and Cooperative Agreements Act of 1977 (31 U.S.C. § 6301 et seq.), all CESU projects must carry out a public purpose of support or stimulation, instead of acquiring goods or services for the exclusive direct benefit of the United States Government. Examples of carrying out a public purpose may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Project results are made available to a wide audience (including nonfederal entities, following necessary coordination with the EAFB project manager)

• Project results/outputs add to the scientific literature/knowledge base, with applicability and utility beyond the scope of the project footprint/study area

• Academic and other nonfederal partner institutions (and their personnel) gain professional experience, increase knowledge, and develop skills and abilities

• Students benefit from direct interaction with federal scientists, program and technical staff, and field unit managers

2.2. In accordance with section 6305 – Using cooperative agreements of the Federal Grant and Cooperative Agreements Act of 1977 (31 U.S.C. § 6301 et seq.), substantial involvement is expected between the Department of Defense and the recipient when carrying out the activity contemplated by the cooperative agreement. The DoD agrees to participate at a national level in support of the CESU program as accepted in the Master MOU for the establishment and continuation of the CESU program Article II 1-4 and Article VI 1-7.

The installation further (hence DoD) agrees to provide substantial involvement as directed under the appropriate master agreement to include, but not be limited to, the following:

• EAFB and AFCEC ISS are involved in development of study methodology, data gathering, analysis, and/or report writing.

• EAFB and AFCEC ISS are active participants and collaborators in carrying out the project plan of work, they will review and approve activities and help train or select project staff or trainees.

• EAFB and AFCEC ISS incurs in-kind or direct expenditures in carrying out the activities specified in the project agreement. Examples include, but are not limited to, the following:

o Providing staff time to work on the project o Provide previous reports and data o Review and authorization of scholarly reports and presentations

3.0 DESCRIPTION OF OBJECTIVES

Provide labor, materials, equipment and supplies to perform the tasks described in Table 1 below. Note that several items are marked as “Unfunded Option” due to the project funds being below the funding line. The full proposal shall include separate costs for each of these items, which will allow any of them to be awarded individually if funds should become available.

Conduct tasks in accordance with this Statement of Objectives (SOO), as prioritized by AFCEC ISS Project Manager (PM) and Base Natural Resources Manager (NRM). Only work aligned with the original AF programming and approved by the USACE Grants Officer’s Technical Representative (GOTR) should be completed as part of this support.

Table 1. Task Summary

Task

Status

Title

Section

Annual Options

1 Funded FSPMA53257119 Mgt, Species, Invasive Species Monitoring and Treatment in Roadside and Disturbed Areas PMA and Cantonment PMA

3.1 Yes

2 Funded FSPMA53255915 Mgt, Wetlands/Floodplains, Invasive Monitoring and Treatment within the Piute Ponds PMA and Seasonally Flooded Zones and Evaporation Ponds PMA

3.2 Yes

3 Funded FSPMA5325915 Mgt, Wetlands / Floodplains, Piute Ponds Improvements

3.3 Yes

4 Unfunded Option

FSPMA53256119B Mgt, Habitat, Branch Memorial Park Management Area, Restore and Improve Soils

3.4 No

5 Unfunded Option

FSPMA53256119C Mgt, Habitat, Branch Memorial Park Management Area, Protect and Maintain Vegetation

3.5 No

6 Unfunded Option

FSPMA53256119D Mgt, Habitat, Branch Memorial Park Management Area, Maintain Access

3.6 No

7 Unfunded Option

FSPMA53256119E Mgt, Habitat, Branch Memorial Park Management Area, Revegetate Disturbed Habitat

3.7 No

8 Unfunded Option

FSPMA53256119F Mgt, Habitat, Branch Memorial Park Management Area, Vegetation Control

3.8 No

Travel: Provide transportation and fuel for all Non-Federal Entity (NFE) staff to get to and from all field sites. Retain current proof of insurance, current registration, and REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses for all modes of transportation.

Coordination: Coordinate concurrently with the Base NRM, AFCEC ISS, and USACE PM. All work shall be approved by the AFCEC and be consistent with the Project Schedule & Work Plan approved by the Base NRM. Schedule changes can be made;

trade-off decisions will be jointly made by the USACE-PM, Base NRM and AFCEC ISS and align with the Sikes Act compliant INRMP and original budget programming. Any changes in scope or cost must be approved by the USACE Grants Officer. All coordination with state and federal regulators will be by the Base NRM or AFCEC ISS only.

Project Management: A Project Manager should be assigned to coordinate across tasks, manage all personnel hired to complete work, and ensure all scoped objectives are completed on time. Level of effort for Project Management is expected to be at least 6 hours per month with additional hours as needed, generally at the beginning and end of the agreement period of performance and before and after monthly meetings. Project manager shall provide monthly meeting agenda, track deliverables, provide meeting notes, etc.

Within 30 days of award, the NFE will schedule an initial project kick off meeting with all parties involved (EAFB, AFCEC Edwards Installation Support Section, USACE, etc.) to develop a project work schedule to implement the SOO. All deliverables/tasks will be submitted within the required timeframes as identified.

Access: Access to EAFB is restricted. General base access requires sponsorship by a government civilian employee and should be coordinated at least two weeks prior to the visit. Long-term base access will require additional security clearances and access processing. Access to some areas may be limited by ongoing military activities such that personnel access is limited to weekends or brief periods of a few hours. Access to the AFRL area is limited to U.S. citizens only. Access procedures are described in further detail in the most recent version of the EAFB NFE Access Request Procedures Template.

Photography Use: Photography at EAFB is restricted, requiring an authorization letter that must be in the photographer’s possession at all times. Cell phone photos are not allowed. Any photos/reports released to the public must be reviewed and authorized by Public Affairs. A non-disclosure agreement (NDA) is required for use of photographs for data analysis and report preparation prior to authorization by public affairs for release of photos/reports to the public.

Environmental Awareness Training: All NFE project personnel working on Edwards

AFB

shall attend desert tortoise awareness training prior to commencing work or visiting the work site.

Environmental Impact Analysis: Environmental Management, 412 CEG/CEV, is the proponent for these tasks and responsible for initiation of the Environmental Impact Analysis Process. The NFE shall comply with any Minimization Measures designated for these tasks that result from the Environmental Impact Analysis review.

Biological Security Measure: The NFE shall follow applicable Biological Security Best Management Practices identified in the most recent version of the installation Invasive Species Management Plan.

3.1 Task 1: FSPMA53257119 Mgt, Species, Invasive Species Monitoring and Treatment in Roadside and Disturbed Areas PMA and Cantonment PMA

3.1.1 Background:

Habitat quality, connectivity, and integrity are key components in the conservation of T&E species such as the desert tortoise. Removal of invasive exotic species is generally recognized by resource protection agencies as beneficial to resources when the activities are carried out in a manner that protects fish, wildlife, riparian vegetation, and water quality.

Invasive plants are liable to be troublesome, aggressive, intrusive, detrimental, or destructive to important native species and are difficult to control or eradicate (California Food and Agriculture Code 5004). Non-native invasive species are introduced in a variety of ways including unintentionally, through contaminated cargo or equipment, water, or wind, and intentionally through landscaping or erosion control. These plants lack the natural controls from their native environments. Combined with aggressive growth characteristics and unpalatability, many exotic invasive species, once they get a foothold, can dominate and replace more desirable vegetation. This can result in less nutritional forage availability, alteration of native soils, interruption of natural water flows and availability, alteration of vegetation density and persistence across the landscape, which can inhibit wildlife movement and other natural history requirements across the landscape as well as increase wildfire potential in non-adapted systems perpetuating and increasing habitat degradation.

3.1.2 Objectives:

The primary objective for this task order is to perform control measures to invasive plant species within roadsides and the main developed area at EAFB. Work conducted on this task order supports natural resource management activities and implements the Edwards Air Force Base Invasive Species Management Plan dated 20 June 2018 and accomplishes the current INRMP goals through field work, data analysis, and reporting on native and invasive species management efforts.

The NFE shall survey, assess, and as possible, treat non-native species escaping planted areas and along troublesome roadsides establishing in and/or encroaching on native habitat, which are degrading and impacting native habitats and sensitive species.

Survey and treatment objectives and requirements for invasive species management are broken into Priority Management Areas (PMAs). This work will focus on Roadside and Disturbed Areas PMA and the Cantonment PMA. Should work efforts or methods need to deviate from those identified in the work plan, a discussion followed by email documentation shall occur, to include the EAFB POC. If a new invasive species infestation is discovered and warrants immediate survey/mapping, and associated treatment response, priority efforts may be reassessed to ensure rapid response can be achieved.

PMAs shall be surveyed and managed as appropriate (e.g., using GIS, GPS, remote sensing) and using control methods (e.g., mechanical, herbicide, etc.) to assess true efforts/investments as seasonally appropriate and per the work plan to assess current and future efforts; this shall include an assessment of untargeted/un-surveyed/uncontrolled species and their current trajectories.

Herbicide usage (to include a breakdown of herbicide mixture formulations and concentrations), invasive species presence (percent cover), and extent of invasive species (gross and net acreage) within each identified treatment/survey area will conform to Edwards AFB GIS Grid Format Standards.

The following work elements are assessed in both area and associated efforts. However, due to the stochastic nature of weather, invasive seed survival, and invasive species cover, it is understood that these efforts are relative. Should there be a decrease or increase in effort due to invasive species cover changes, the NFE will work with the EAFB POC to shift work as needed.

Roadside and Disturbed Areas PMA

Sahara mustard is an invasive weed detrimental to range sustainment and desert tortoise native habitat because it outcompetes native forbs and provides an increase in wildfire risk due to its growth pattern creating a continuous fuel source for uncontrollable fires. Sahara mustard is most commonly found on roadsides and other disturbed areas and are managed under the Roadside and Disturbed Areas PMA yearly to prevent additional spread. However, roadside surveys have discovered the spread of Sahara mustard beyond the roadsides into undisturbed or minimally disturbed native desert habitat, including desert tortoise critical habitat. Reducing source material for these sensitive areas is critical and require additional consideration to the timing, application method, or other control efforts/effort plans/assessments to support identifying needs for this species target. Any proposed efforts within this PMA must minimize the potential impacts on desert tortoises, desert tortoise forage, and other EAFB species of interest.

Previously mapped net acres of Sahara mustard identified for management are available in Edwards AFB GIS. The NFE shall implement invasive weed surveys, mapping, and subsequent associated/ancillary control on roughly 40 net acres or scattered infestations along approximately 25 miles of roads in the Roadsides and Disturbed Areas PMA focusing on target species found in Table 1, specifically focusing on Sahara Mustard. It is expected that this work will focus on spraying along the roadsides with a pre-emergent prior to rain events to ensure appropriate eradication.

Timing of this effort shall ensure that subsequent rain is forecast with sufficient quantity to ensure appropriate control of Sahara mustard. Treatment and/or retreatment in the form of post emergent may also be utilized. Currently, water is being obtained at Downfall Precision Impact Range Area (PIRA) or Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Safety office near the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) gate to support these efforts. These are central to the treatment areas so travel time should be minimal.

Access to AFRL is limited to U.S. citizens only.

Surveys, associated treatment/monitoring and effort assessments shall follow recommended treatment protocols outlined in the Edwards Air Force Base Invasive Species Management Plan dated 20 June 2018 and the Roadsides and Disturbed Areas Priority Management Area Work Plan dated 30 October 2018 unless evaluation of current conditions require an update to treatment protocols, to be discussed and agreed upon by contracted support and EAFB POC. Treatment for individual species may require multiple efforts. Final survey and effort assessments shall be documented to update the plans as documented in 2018.

Cantonment Area PMA

Invasive weed surveys, mapping, and subsequent associated/ancillary control shall be conducted within the Cantonment Area PMA focusing on target species found in Table 1 and areas of past infestations/treatments within approximately 20 net acres in the PMA where problematic species have “escaped” landscaped areas into waterways, drainages, and adjacent native habitat. However, areas of new infestations/treatments shall be noted and/or treated. Area specific treatment around the airfield and their associated flight paths (approximately 420 gross acres) shall treat and retreat sprouts of tamarisk species as needed. Tamarisk in these areas provide nesting opportunities near abundant resources to one of the key predators of desert tortoises, Common ravens, as well as providing sanctuary for other hazardous species to EAFB flight missions. Efforts within this PMA is anticipated to take a crew of approximately six total individuals with a qualified pesticide application supervisor approximately 3 days as scheduled during the appropriate time season.

Effective control of Tamarisk species requires an integrated management approach, including manual and mechanical removal of plants coupled with herbicide treatment of regrowth and new seedlings. Efforts to control or remove populations of tamarisk needs to be repeated across several growing seasons, due to the species’ ability to repeatedly resprout after treatment. Tamarisk treatments/retreatments are anticipated to take approximately one day for a variable sized team (approximately 2 individuals) during the fall when most appropriate for efficacy.

Treatment and monitoring shall follow recommended treatment protocols outlined in the Edwards AFB Invasive Species Management Plan dated 20 June 2018 and the Edwards AFB Invasive Species Management FY19 Cantonment Survey Report 5 November 2019 unless evaluation of current conditions require an update to treatment protocols, to be discussed and agreed upon by contracted support and EAFB POC.

Figure 1: Invasive Species PMAco

Table 1: Priority Invasive Species for Treatment within each Priority Management Areas

Cantonment PMA Arundo donax Cenchrus setaceus Centaurea melitensis Gleditsia triacanthos Lepidium latifolium Parkinsonia florida Prosopis species Rhaponticum repens Tamarix species Roadside and Disturbed Areas PMA Brassica tournefortii

Herbicide Application Requirements

NFE shall provide all labor, tools, equipment, test equipment, PPE and clothing, material and parts, transportation and other incidentals necessary to implement management action surveys and assessments which include herbicide application to assess efforts. As a part of these assessments, all rules and regulations shall be followed, including but not limited to:

1. All herbicides and herbicide application shall comply with DoDI 4150.07 DoD Pest

Management Program; AFMAN 32-1053 Integrated Pest Management Program; the Integrated Pest Management Plan at each applicable base; Armed Forces Pest Management Board (AFPMB) list of Approved herbicides; and the State of California Pesticide Regulations and be registered for use in the State of California. Only pesticides approved for use on the applicable base may be applied.

2. A list of those herbicides requested to be used must be submitted to the EAFB POC NLT 30 calendar days after contract is signed. A list of all herbicides to be applied is to be provided, with SDS and labels, to the Installation Pest Management Coordinator (IPMC) 15 calendar days prior to application. If non-approved herbicide is preferred, the NFE shall submit an AF Approval Request Form for Non-Standard Pesticides to the IPMC 30 calendar days prior to application. Any non-standard herbicides need to have command approval prior to use and will require a longer approval period.

3. Only personnel licensed/certified by the State of California shall apply herbicides.

Copies of all herbicide application certifications shall be provided to the IPMC within 30 calendar days via the EAFB POC. All licenses/certifications must be in the proper category of the type of work being performed. Qualified Applicator Certificate, Qualified Applicator License, and Pest Control business license copies are to be provided. For most work on Edwards AFB a category B license is required, with the exception of roadsides that require category C licenses.

4. Before any herbicide application is to begin, the EAFB POC will assist in coordinating with the relevant base entities. An AF Form 813 will be staffed through the

Environmental Impact Assessment Process team by the EAFB POC for approval. It will include the pest to be controlled (grass and weed control), a map identifying the location pesticides are to be applied, the number of acres of application, the pesticides that will be applied, and copies of the MSDS or SDS. The NFE may be asked to provide supporting materials for coordination. A signed approval must be in possession of the NFE prior to any ground activity. The NFE MUST coordinate with the EAFB POC to ensure this process is completed prior to work.

5. Pesticide Mixing, Storage and Disposal: All pesticides shall be stored off-base. All unused pesticides, empty pesticide containers and residue shall be disposed of properly at an approved off-base disposal area. Chemical mixing for immediate application may be accomplished at the site of application/treatment and only state certified applicators may mix or apply pesticides. NFE shall provide a spill container/spill kit at mixing areas to ensure that no chemicals impact an area that is not being treated. The NFE shall have an operational emergency eyewash kit available at each mixing location. In the event the NFE spills or releases any hazardous substances (example, substances listed in 40 CFR 302), the NFE shall immediately notify the Fire Department, Base PM, and the Hazardous Waste Section.

6. Safety: The NFE shall comply with all applicable parts of Title 29, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Occupational Safety and Health Standards, Part 1910; Title 29, CFR, Safety and Health Standards for Federal Service Contracts, Part 1925; Title 40, CFR, Parts 150-189, and Title 49, CFR, Hazardous Materials Regulations, Part 171, while on an Air Force installation, to ensure safe working conditions for NFE personnel and a safe environment for the occupants of Air Force facilities.

7. The NFE shall record daily pesticide usage and provide monthly reports to the EAFB PM for input into the Air Force Integrated Pest Management Tracker. Submit monthly reports in a spreadsheet format, to be provided by the EAFB PM with the necessary data for the tracking system or as otherwise coordinated in writing with the EAFB PM.

3.1.3 Deliverables:

Submit deliverables as described in items 2, 3 and 7 above and in section 9.0.

Deliverables include: Work Plan, Technical Report, GIS Data, Weekly Status Report, and Monthly Status Report.

3.2 Task 2: FSPMA53255915 Mgt, Wetlands/Floodplains, Invasive Monitoring and Treatment within the Piute Ponds PMA and Seasonally Flooded Zones and Evaporation Ponds PMA

3.3.1 Background:

Wetlands and Floodplains are particularly vulnerable to invasion by invasive non-native species in the Mojave Desert Environment due to the periodic natural disturbance regime and the availability and retention of water. Removal of invasive non-native species is generally recognized by resource protection agencies as beneficial to resources when the activities are carried out in a manner that protects fish, wildlife, riparian vegetation, and water quality.

Invasive plants are liable to be troublesome, aggressive, intrusive, detrimental, or destructive to important native species and are difficult to control or eradicate (California Food and Agriculture Code 5004). Non-native invasive species are introduced in a variety of ways including unintentionally, through contaminated cargo or equipment, water, or wind, and intentionally through landscaping or erosion control. These plants lack the natural controls from their native environments. Combined with aggressive growth characteristics and unpalatability, many exotic invasive species, once they get a foothold, can dominate and replace more desirable vegetation. This can result alteration of native soils, interruption of natural water flows and availability, choking out waterways, alteration of vegetation density and persistence across the landscape as well as increase wildfire potential in non-adapted systems perpetuating and increasing habitat degradation.

3.3.2 Objectives:

The primary objective for this task order is to perform control measures to invasive plant species at EAFB. Work conducted on this task order supports natural resource management activities within the Piute Ponds Complex and seasonally flooded areas on Edwards AFB and implements the Edwards Air Force Base Invasive Species Management Plan dated 20 June 2018 and accomplishes the current INRMP goals through field work, data analysis, and reporting on native and invasive species management efforts.

The NFE shall survey, assess, and as possible, treat non-native invasive establishing within native habitat and waterways which are degrading and impacting native habitats and sensitive species.

Survey and treatment objectives and requirements are broken into Priority Management Areas (PMAs), Piute Ponds PMA and Seasonally Flooded Zones and Evaporation Ponds PMA. Should work efforts or methods need to deviate from those identified in the work plan, a discussion followed by email documentation shall occur, to include the EAFB POC.

If a new invasive species infestation is discovered and warrants immediate survey/mapping, and associated treatment response, priority efforts may be reassessed to ensure rapid response can be achieved. PMAs shall be surveyed and managed as appropriate (e.g., using GIS, GPS, remote sensing) and using control methods (e.g., mechanical, herbicide, etc.) to assess true efforts/investments as seasonally appropriate and per the work plan to assess current and future efforts; this shall include an assessment of untargeted/un-surveyed/uncontrolled species and their current trajectories.

Herbicide usage (to include a breakdown of herbicide mixture formulations and concentrations), invasive species presence (percent cover), and extent of invasive species (gross and net acreage) within each identified treatment/survey area will conform to Edwards AFB GIS Grid Format Standards.

The following work elements are assessed in both area and associated efforts. However, due to the stochastic nature of weather, invasive seed survival, and invasive species cover, it is understood that these efforts are relative. Should there be a decrease or increase in effort due to invasive species cover changes, the NFE will work with the EAFB POC to shift work as needed.

Piute Ponds Complex PMA

Invasive species treatments within this PMA focus mostly on hydrophilic species in and around permanent and seasonally inundated and adjacent areas.

Surveys, monitoring, and associated management shall follow recommended management protocols outlined in the Edwards Air Force Base Invasive Species Management Plan dated 20 June 2018 and the Piute Ponds Invasive Species Survey Report and Treatment Plan dated 22 March 2019 unless evaluation of current conditions require an update to treatment protocols, to be discussed and agreed upon by contracted support and EAFB POC. Management efforts will most likely will require multiple visits/surveys/treatments during the growing season or over the course of a year. For the purposes of this effort, it is anticipated this work will require a team of approximately six individuals, to include a qualified supervisor, for at least two (2) separate treatment/survey visits of 5 days each (to include travel days) during the appropriate times of year. Within this PMA treatments shall be completed as follows for tamarisk:

1. Within this PMA treatments shall be completed as follows for tamarisk:

a. Spray small tamarisk (seedling/sapling) around edges and within ponds. Total area for spraying will be up to 15,000 linear feet by 6 to 12 inches wide.

b. Treat small mature tamarisk (approximately <= 10” trunk diameter) focusing on trees in and adjacent to the ponds. Removal of dead trees is not required unless they become hazardous or prevent the effectiveness of future management plans.

If completed, mechanical tree removal will require tree stumps to be cut as close to ground surface as practicable (no more than 2 ft. above surface) and all tree material shall be removed from EAFB unless an alternative is approved by 412 CEG/CEVA in writing.

2. Implement Invasive non-native surveys, mapping, and subsequent associated/ancillary control on approximately 65 net acres in the Piute Ponds Complex PMA focusing on target species found in Table 2. Work areas may include previously restored locations.

If a new invasive species infestation is discovered and warrants immediate response priority species and treatments may be reassessed to ensure rapid response can be achieved. Efforts are to be included in the survey/work assessment as detailed above (i.e., six individuals including a qualified supervisor for at least two (2) separate treatments.

Seasonally Flooded Zones and Evaporation Ponds PMA

Implement Invasive weed surveys, mapping, and subsequent associated/ancillary control shall occur on approximately 40 net acres in the Seasonally Flooded Zones and Evaporation Ponds PMA focusing on target species found in Table 2.

Treatment and monitoring shall follow recommended treatment protocols outlined in the Edwards Air Force Base Invasive Species Management Plan dated 20 June 2018 and the Seasonally Flooded Zones and Evaporation Ponds Priority Management Area Work Plan dated 4 January 2019 unless evaluation of current conditions require an update to treatment protocols, to be discussed and agreed upon by contracted support and EAFB POC. Management efforts will most likely will require multiple visits/surveys/treatments during the growing season or over the course of a year; for purposes of this effort, it is anticipated this work will require a team of approximately six individuals, including a qualified supervisor, for at least two separate treatment/survey visits of five total days each visit inclusive of travel during the appropriate times of year.

Table 2: Priority Invasive Species for Treatment within each Priority Management Areas

Piute Ponds PMA Arundo donax Bassia hyssopifolia Cirsium vulgare Lepidium draba Lepidium latifolium Rhaponticum repens Tamarix species Seasonally Flooded and Evaporation Ponds PMA Arundo donax Lepidium latifolium Prosopis species Rhaponticum repens

Herbicide Application Requirements

NFE shall provide all labor, tools, equipment, test equipment, PPE and clothing, material and parts, transportation and other incidentals necessary to implement management action surveys and assessments which include herbicide application to assess efforts. As a part of these assessments, all rules and regulations shall be followed, including but not limited to:

1. All herbicides and herbicide application shall comply with DoDI 4150.07 DoD Pest

Management Program; AFMAN 32-1053 Integrated Pest Management Program; the Integrated Pest Management Plan at each applicable base; Armed Forces Pest Management Board (AFPMB) list of Approved herbicides; and the State of California Pesticide Regulations, and be registered for use in the State of California. Only pesticides approved for use on the applicable base may be applied.

2. A list of those herbicides requested to be used must be submitted to the EAFB POC NLT 30 calendar days after contract is signed. A list of all herbicides to be applied is to be provided, with SDS and labels, to the Installation Pest Management Coordinator (IPMC) 15 calendar days prior to application. If non-approved herbicide is preferred, the NFE shall submit an AF Approval Request Form for Non-Standard Pesticides to the IPMC 30 calendar days prior to application. Any non-standard herbicides need to have command approval prior to use and will require a longer approval period.

3. Only personnel licensed/certified by the State of California shall apply herbicides.

Copies of all herbicide application certifications shall be provided to the IPMC within 30 calendar days via the EAFB POC. All licenses/certifications must be in the proper category of the type of work being performed. Qualified Applicator Certificate, Qualified Applicator License, and Pest Control business license copies are to be provided. For most work on Edwards AFB a category B license is required, with the exception of roadsides that require category C licenses.

4. Before any herbicide application is to begin, the EAFB POC will assist in coordinating with the relevant base entities. An AF Form 813 will be staffed through the Environmental Impact Assessment Process team by the EAFB POC for approval. It will include the pest to be controlled (grass and weed control), a map identifying the location pesticides are to be applied, the number of acres of application, the pesticides that will be applied, and copies of the MSDS or SDS. The NFE may be asked to provide supporting materials for coordination. A signed approval must be in possession of the NFE prior to any ground activity. The NFE MUST coordinate with the EAFB POC to ensure this process is completed prior to work.

5. Pesticide Mixing, Storage and Disposal: All pesticides shall be stored off-base. All unused pesticides, empty pesticide containers and residue shall be disposed of properly at an approved off-base disposal area. Chemical mixing for immediate application may be accomplished at the site of application/treatment and only state certified applicators may mix or apply pesticides. NFE shall provide a spill container/spill kit at mixing areas to ensure that no chemicals impact an area that is not being treated. The NFE shall have an operational emergency eyewash kit available at each mixing location. In the event the NFE spills or releases any hazardous substances (example, substances listed in 40 CFR 302), the NFE shall immediately notify the Fire Department, Base PM, and the Hazardous Waste Section.

6. Safety: The NFE shall comply with all applicable parts of Title 29, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Occupational Safety and Health Standards, Part 1910; Title 29, CFR, Safety and Health Standards for Federal Service Contracts, Part 1925; Title 40, CFR, Parts 150-189, and Title 49, CFR, Hazardous Materials Regulations, Part 171, while on an Air Force installation, to ensure safe working conditions for contract personnel and a safe environment for the occupants of Air Force facilities.

7. The NFE shall record daily pesticide usage and provide monthly reports to the EAFB PM for input into the Air Force Integrated Pest Management Tracker. Submit monthly reports in a spreadsheet format, to be provided by the EAFB PM with the necessary data for the tracking system or as otherwise coordinated in writing with the EAFB PM.

3.2.3 Deliverables:

Submit deliverables as described in items 2, 3 and 7 above and in section 9.0.

Deliverables include: Work Plan, Technical Report, GIS Data, Weekly Status Report, and Monthly Status Report.

3.3 Task 3: FSPMA5325915 Mgt, Wetlands / Floodplains, Piute Ponds Improvements

3.3.1 Background:

The primary objective of this project is to conduct vegetation control within the Piute Ponds Complex (PPC) to ensure functional and ecologically diverse habitats and to ensure year-round access around the facility.

Due to inputs from surrounding water ways, climatic conditions, and overall topography within the Complex, an abundance of cattails and tules thrive and threaten to choke out open water and waterways reducing available habitat to various wetland species and recreational opportunities as well as provide source materials to surrounding waterways that cause additional issues in surrounding habitats. This project is identified in the Edwards AFB Piute Ponds Complex Management Plan and the current INRMP.

The upland and wetland area (excluding Rosamond Dry Lake) of the Piute Ponds Complex encompasses approximately 7,840 acres. Of the 7,840 acres, approximately 1,365 acres of ponds, wetlands, wet meadows, and clay pans are in an area where the water flow/levels can be managed to some degree (See Figure 2). The primary source of water is effluent from the Los Angeles County District 14 Wastewater Treatment Plant (D14). Other seasonally flooded wetlands exist outside of this Water Management Area fed exclusively from natural surface water as it flows to the lakebed. Access to the PPC is restricted during waterfowl hunting season mid- October – mid- February.

Numerous levees/roads are inaccessible or unsafe for use throughout the year due to deteriorated levee/road surface conditions. Access is required year-round for PPC infrastructure maintenance, habitat management, and public recreational access. This project is identified in the Edwards AFB Piute Ponds Complex Management Plan and the current INRMP.

Existing levee/road surfaces shall be covered with concrete aggregate subbase and road base/gravel and compacted. Finished top surface will be tapered from levee/road center to levee/road shoulder to allow for proper water runoff. Existing levee/road surfaces average between 16 to 25 feet in width. Depending on the Levee/Road Condition of the levees/roads (see Table 3 and Figure 4), they will require one of the three applications:

1) Approximately 2.1 miles of dirt levee/roads require: Concrete aggregate subbase (12,668 cubic yards) of approximately 3 - 6 inches in size placed on the existing dirt levee/road surface to a depth of approximately 18 inches and to the approximate width of the existing dirt levee/road surface. Additional road base/gravel (4,749 cubic yards) of ¾ inch minus material will be placed on top of the concrete aggregate subbase of approximately 3 – 6 inches in size to a depth of approximately 6 – 8 inches.

2) Approximately 10.8 miles of dirt levee/roads will require: Concrete aggregate subbase (35,005 cubic yards) of approximately 3 – 6 inches in size will be placed on the existing dirt levee/road surface to a depth of approximately 12 inches. Additional road base/gravel (26,255 cubic yards) of ¾ inch minus material will be placed on top of the concrete aggregate subbase of approximately 3 – 6 inches in size to a depth of approximately 6 – 8 inches.

3) Approximately 4.6 miles of dirt levee/roads will require: Road base/gravel (13,464 cubic yards) of ¾ inch minus material placed on the existing dirt levee/road surface to a depth of approximately 6 – 8 inches.

Concrete aggregate subbase and road base/gravel is recycled material created from demolished runway concrete and a subsequent concrete crushing operation on EAFB.

The stockpiled material has been chemically tested and found environmentally suitable for use on this project (Otie. 2019). The concrete aggregate subbase and road base/gravel will be loaded and hauled from recycled concrete stockpiles on EAFB located off Missile Road to the Piute Ponds Complex via Jones Road, Lancaster Boulevard, East Avenue E and Shuttle Road. The recycled concrete aggregate subbase and road base/gravel from EAFB stockpiled recycled materials will be provided at no cost for this project. The Non-Federal Entity (NFE) is responsible for the cost of loading, transporting, spreading and compacting of EAFB stockpiled recycled materials.

One-way travel distance from stockpiles to PPC is approximately 24 miles. Ten miles are on paved Edwards AFB roads, ten miles on public paved roads, and 2 miles on Edwards AFB unpaved roads. Reference: Otie. 2019. Final Project Completion Report, Environmental Restoration Support, Edwards Air Force Base, Kern County, California.

July.

3.3.2 Objectives:

The Non-Federal Entity (NFE) shall establish procedures and provide services and equipment to implement the following within the Piute Ponds complex: 1) Dredge up to

0.5 acre of cattail and tule growth within the Piute Ponds Complex to assist in habitat maintenance and waterflow (Figure 3). Dredged materials may be left onsite with the designated area. Dredged organic material and silt should be separated to the greatest extent feasible for future pile burns. 2) Optional (if material available on base): Maintain PPC levees/roads utilizing approximately 16,365 cubic yards annually of subbase and road base/gravel from Edwards AFB recycled concrete stockpiles. Priority will be given to levees/roads of Levee/Road Condition-1 and then to levees/roads of Levee/Road Condition-2. Table and figure of Priority areas found in Table 3 and Figure 4. The Natural Resource Manager will approve the priority selection of levees/roads to be maintained each year.

Figure 2: Piute Ponds Complex 1

Figure 3: Piute Ponds Maintenance Dredging

Table 3: Piute Ponds Complex Levee/Road Conditions

Figure 4: Piute Ponds Levee/Road Condition Map

3.3.3 Task Deliverables:

Submit deliverables as described in section 9.0. Deliverables include: Work Plan, Technical Report including GIS Data of annual actions taken, Weekly Email Updates, and Monthly Status Report.

3.4 Task 4: FSPMA53256119 Mgt, Habitat, Branch Memorial Park Management Area, Restore and Improve Soils (UNFUNDED OPTION, cost ceiling $228,571)

3.4.1 Background:

Branch Memorial Park Management Area (BMPMA) is a significant outdoor recreation site on Edwards AFB. The Management Area encompasses approximately 75 acres, is rectangular in shape, and is centered on Branch Memorial Park Pond (BMPP), a six-acre constructed pond stocked for fishing. The site is also important for natural resources management, offering an oasis in the desert that provides nesting and foraging resources for migratory and resident birds, and aquatic and riparian habitat for many other plants and animals. Tricolored blackbirds (TRBL, Agelaius tricolor)—listed as threatened in California— nest in the pond’s vegetation. Mesquite bosques are located adjacent to BMPP.

3.4.2 Objectives:

The primary objective of this project is to perform habitat restoration activities at BMPMA adjacent to BMPP. Field work can be performed from August through January.

The Non-Federal Entity (NFE) shall establish procedures and provide services and equipment to implement the following at BMP as described in the Branch Memorial Park Management Plan (BMPMP) dated 27 November 2023 and the current Edwards AFB Integrated Natural Resource Management Plan (INRMP). 1) Terrace the BMPP bank edges to encourage herbaceous vegetation growth in the desert riparian zone to prevent erosion. 2) Reconfigure roads and parking areas similar to preliminary architectural design. 3) Remove gravel from exit road on southeast corner of pond and reuse on other roads at BMPMA.

3.4.3 Task Deliverables:

Report Deliverables include: Work Plan, Technical Report, GIS Data, Weekly Status Report, Monthly Status Report, Video Documentation, Press Releases. Submit deliverables as described in section 9.0.

3.5 Task 5: FSPMA53256119 Mgt, Habitat, Branch Memorial Park Management Area, Protect and Maintain Vegetation (UNFUNDED OPTION, cost ceiling $114,285)

3.5.1 Background:

Branch Memorial Park Management Area (BMPMA) is a significant outdoor recreation site on Edwards AFB. The Management Area encompasses approximately 75 acres, is rectangular in shape, and is centered on Branch Memorial Park Pond (BMPP), a six-acre constructed pond stocked for fishing. The site is also important for natural resources management, offering an oasis in the desert that provides nesting and foraging resources for migratory and resident birds, and aquatic and riparian habitat for many other plants and animals. Tricolored blackbirds (TRBL, Agelaius tricolor)—listed as threatened in California— nest in the pond’s vegetation. Mesquite bosques are located adjacent to BMPP.

3.5.2 Objectives:

The primary objective of this project is to perform habitat restoration activities at BMPMA adjacent to BMPP. Field work can be performed from August through January.

The Non-Federal Entity (NFE) shall establish procedures and provide services and equipment to implement the following at BMP as described in the Branch Memorial Park Management Plan (BMPMP) dated 27 November 2023 and the current Edwards AFB Integrated Natural Resource Management Plan (INRMP). 1) Stabilize up to 6 leaning trees at BMPP by providing emergent rock and cobble piles at the foot of each tree.

Crushed concrete aggregate is available on Edwards AFB for use at BMPP. Aggregate will need to be loaded and hauled approximately 8 miles in one direction.

3.5.3 Task Deliverables:

Report Deliverables include: Work Plan, Technical Report, GIS Data, Weekly Status Report, Monthly Status Report, Video Documentation, Press Releases. Submit deliverables as described in section 9.0.

3.6 Task 6: FSPMA53256119 Mgt, Habitat, Branch Memorial Park Management Area, Maintain Access (UNFUNDED OPTION, cost ceiling $142,857)

3.6.1 Background:

Branch Memorial Park Management Area (BMPMA) is a significant outdoor recreation site on Edwards AFB. The Management Area encompasses approximately 75 acres, is rectangular in shape, and is centered on Branch Memorial Park Pond (BMPP), a six-acre constructed pond stocked for fishing.