BICY_341318A_SOW.pdf

Statement of Work 7/10/2025

Replace Protective Fencing at Oasis VC Big Cypress National Preserve

1. Background:

a. Big Cypress National Preserve (BICY) is a United States National Preserve located in South Florida, about 45 miles west of Miami on the Atlantic coastal plain. The 720,000-acre Big Cypress, along with Big Thicket National Preserve in Texas, became the first national preserve in the United States National Park System when they were established on October 11, 1974.

b. Big Cypress manages water flow coming out of Central Florida through Lake Okeechobee over the land as sheet flow through what is now as a River of Grass. The canals build in the 1950’s and 60’s divert this sheet flow through diversion canals and road canals. During periods of high-water volume, Big Cypress, due to the canals, diverts an extremely high volume of water to the city of Everglades City. Traditionally, manmade structure known as ditch plugs, act to slow the volume of water down to prevent flooding in Everglades City. This water management technique is crucial to the homes and business in Everglades City and has become a major part in reducing the Service’s Liability risk in the local community.

2. Objectives:

a. Replace Protective fencing at Oasis Visitor Center. The project involves the replacement of 650 linear feet of deteriorated, 4-foot high chain-link fencing at the Oasis Visitor Center in Big Cypress National Preserve. The existing fencing serves as a crucial barrier to protect the public along the boardwalk and viewing area from native wildlife in the canal oasis. The replacement will include the installation of new fencing that meets safety standards and effectively prevents wildlife from accessing the public areas. The project will also involve the removal and proper disposal of the old fencing materials.

3. Place of Performance:

a. Big Cypress National Preserve Oasis Visitor Center 52105 Tamiami Trl E Ochopee, FL 34141

4. Period of Performance:

The period of performance is estimated to be 31 calendar days.

5. Scope of Work

The contractor shall perform the following tasks:

Fence Removal and Disposal

- Remove approximately 650 linear feet of existing 4-foot tall chain link fencing

- Disconnect and extract all posts, mesh, gates, and hardware

- Any fence posts secured in concrete shall be fully removed and the terrain leveled prior to installation.

- Properly dispose of all removed materials in accordance with local environmental regulations

- Ensure minimal disturbance to surrounding vegetation and canal bank

Fence Construction

- Install 650 linear feet of 7-foot tall, 8-gauge coated galvanized chain link fencing

- Fence to be buried 6 inches below grade for added security

- Include heavy-duty components:

o Terminal posts set in concrete o Top rail and bottom support bar for stabilization o Tension wire and ties rated for high-strength applications

- Install one 8-foot wide double swing gate with:

o Reinforced lower bar o 6-inch buried mesh beneath gate for continuity o Locking mechanism and secure latching system

6. Wildlife Safety Requirements

- Fence must be fully secured with no gaps or breaches left open at the end of each workday.

- Contractor is responsible for implementing appropriate safety measures to minimize disturbance to wildlife, particularly alligators.

- All activities must comply with state and federal environmental regulations, including those governing protected lands and species.

- Use of wildlife-safe construction methods and temporary barriers is required as needed.

*Offerors are advised that performance under this requirement will occur in close proximity(~8ft) to a canal in which the presence of alligators is possible. This environmental condition shall be duly considered in the preparation and submission of any proposal

7. Materials & Standards

- Fence fabric: 8-gauge coated galvanized steel, meeting ASTM A392 standards

- Posts: Schedule 40 galvanized steel

- Concrete: Minimum 2,500 psi for post footings

- Gate hardware: Heavy-duty hinges, latches, and lockable mechanisms

- All work to comply with industry standards and National Park Service guidelines

8. Travel:

Contractor shall be responsible for all travel related expenses for this project (i.e. tools, materials, manpower, meals, per diem)

9. Quality Assurance Requirement:

The Government will periodically evaluate the contractor’s performance in accordance with the statement of work.

Contracting Officer:

Contracting Officer Representative:

Damien Hardgrove 33100 Tamiami Trail E.

Ochopee, FL 34141

(239) 340-0079 damien_hardgrove@nps.gov