C04k_5b Powerhouse_FSSS.pdf

FOREST SERVICE

SUPPLEMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS

FOR

POWERHOUSE SUBDIVISION

MITCHELL-JACKSON DxP Stewardship IRSC

USDA Forest Service, Region 1 Kootenai National Forest

Libby Ranger District Lincoln County, Montana

Prepared by:

Great West Engineering, Inc.

2501 Belt View Drive

Helena, MT 5960

Table of Contents Preface 101 - Terms¸ Format¸ and Definitions

101.01 Meaning of Terms

101.01 Meaning of Terms

101.03 Abbreviations

101.04 Definitions

102 - Bid¸ Award¸ and Execution of Contract Delete Section 102

103 - Scope of Work Delete Subsections 103.02, 103.03, 103.04, 103.05

104 - Control of Work Delete Subsections 104.01, 104.02, 104.04

104.03 Specifications and Drawings

104.06 Use of Roads by Contractor

105 - Control of Material 105.02(c) Contractor-located sources

105.05 Use of Material Found in the Work

106 - Acceptance of Work

106.01 Conformity with Contract Requirements

106.02 Visual Inspection

106.07 Partial and Final Acceptance

107 - Legal Relations and Responsibility to the Public Delete Subsection 107.05

107.08 Sanitation, Health, and Safety

108 - Prosecution and Progress Delete Section 108

109 - Measurement and Payment Delete Subsections 109.06, 109.07, 109.08, 109.09

109.01 Measurement of Work

109.02 Measurement Terms and Definitions

153 - Contractor Quality Control 155 - Schedules for Construction Contracts

Delete Section 155 156 - Public Traffic

Section 156. – PUBLIC TRAFFIC 201 - Clearing and Grubbing

201.06 Disposal

202 - Additional Clearing and Grubbing 203 - Removal of Structures and Obstructions

203.05 Disposing of Material

204 - Excavation and Embankment 205 - Rock Blasting

205.03 Regulations

205.06 Preblast condition survey and vibration monitoring and control

205.07 Test Blasting

205.08 Blasting

209 - Structure Excavation and Backfill 212 - Linear Grading 301 - Untreated Aggregate Courses 302 - Minor Crushed Aggregate

302.04 Placing Crushed Aggregate

302.05 Compacting and Finishing Crushed Aggregate

303 - Road Reconditioning 602 - Culverts and Drains

602.03 General

602.05 Laying Metal Pipe

625 - Turf Establishment 703 - Aggregate

703.05 Subbase, Base, Surface Course, and Screened Aggregate

705 - Rock

705.02 Riprap. Table 705-1

Preface Preface_wo_02_16_2023

Delete all but the first paragraph and add the following:

The Forest Service, US Department of Agriculture has adopted FP-14 for construction of National Forest System Roads.

101 - Terms¸ Format¸ and Definitions 101.01_National_1_24_2022

Add the following paragraph to Subsection 101.01:

101.01 Meaning of Terms.

Delete all references to the FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulations) in the specifications when incorporating into 2400-6(T) Timber Sale or 2400-13(T) Stewardship contracts.

101.01_National_11_9_2016

Add the following paragraph to Subsection 101.01:

101.01 Meaning of Terms.

Delete all references to the TAR (Transportation Acquisition Regulations) in the specifications.

101.03_National_11_9_2016

Add the following to Subsection 101.03:

101.03 Abbreviations.

(a) Acronyms.

AGAR — Agriculture Acquisition Regulations

AFPA — American Forest and Paper Association

FSAR — Forest Service Acquisition Regulations

MSHA — Mine Safety and Health Administration

NESC — National Electrical Safety Code

WCLIB — West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau

(f) Miscellaneous unit abbreviations.

MP — milepost location ppm — parts per million volume

STA — station location

101.04_National_1_22_2020

Make the following changes to Subsection 101.04:

101.04 Definitions.

Delete these definitions and replace the following:

Bid Schedule — The Schedule of Items.

Bridge — A structure, including supports, erected over a depression or an obstruction such as water along a road, a trail, or a railway and having a deck for carrying traffic or other loads.

Contractor — The individual or legal entity contracting with the Government for performance of prescribed work. In a timber sale contract, the contractor is the “Purchaser”.

Culvert — Any structure with a bottom, regardless of fill depth, depth of invert burial, or presence of horizontal driving surface, or any bottomless (natural channel) structure with footings that will not have wheel loads in direct contact with the top of the structure.

Drawings — (Public Works Contracts) Design sheets or fabrication, erection, or construction details submitted to the CO by the Contractor according to FAR Clause 52.236-21 Specifications and Drawings for Construction. Also refers to submissions and submittals.

Notice to Proceed — (Public Works Contracts) Written notice to the Contractor to begin the contract work.

Right-of-Way — A general term denoting (1) the privilege to pass over land in some particular line (including easement, lease, permit, or license to occupy, use, or traverse public or private lands), or (2) Real property necessary for the project, including roadway, buffer areas, access, and drainage areas.

Solicitation — (Public Works Contracts) The complete assembly of documents (whether attached or incorporated by reference) furnished to prospective bidders.

Add the following definitions:

Adjustment in Contract Price — “Equitable adjustment,” as used in the Federal Acquisition Regulations, or “construction cost adjustment,” as used in the Timber Sale Contract, as applicable.

Change — “Change” means “change order” as used in the Federal Acquisition Regulations, or “design change” as used in the Timber Sale Contract.

Forest Service — The United States of America, acting through the Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Neat Line — A line defining the proposed or specified limits of an excavation or structure.

Pioneer Road — Temporary construction access built along the route of the project.

Purchaser — The individual, partnership, joint venture, or corporation contracting with the Government under the terms of a Timber Sale Contract and acting independently or through agents, employees, or subcontractors.

Protected Streamcourse — A drainage shown on the plans or timber sale area map that requires designated mitigation measures.

Road Order — An order affecting and controlling traffic on roads under Forest Service jurisdiction. Road Orders are issued by a designated Forest Officer under the authorities of 36 CFR, part 260.

Shop Drawings — (Timber and Stewardship Contracts) Referred to as “Drawings” in FP-14, include drawings, diagrams, layouts, schematics, descriptive literature, illustrations, lists or tables, performance and test data, and similar materials furnished by Purchaser to explain in detail specific portions of the work required by the contract.

Utilization Standards — The minimum size and percent soundness of trees described in Public Works contract specifications or Timber Sale and IRTC contract provisions to determine merchantable timber.

Add Figure 101-1—Illustration of road structure terms:

Figure 101-1—Illustration of road structure terms.

102 - Bid¸ Award¸ and Execution of Contract 102.00_National_11_9_2016

Delete Section 102 in its entirety.

Delete Section 102.

103 - Scope of Work 103.00_National_11_9_2016

Delete all of Section 103 except Subsection 103.01 Intent of Contract.

Delete Subsections 103.02, 103.03, 103.04, 103.05.

104 - Control of Work 104.00_National_11_9_2016

Delete Subsections 104.01, 104.02, and 104.04.

Delete Subsections 104.01, 104.02, 104.04.

104.03_National_1_24_2022

Delete Subsection 104.03 and replace with the following:

104.03 Specifications and Drawings.

Refer to B(T) 5.211 in the 2400-6(T)) or the 2400-13(T) contracts for requirements under this subsection.

104.06_National_11_9_2016

Add the following to Subsection 104.06:

104.06 Use of Roads by Contractor.

The Contractor is authorized to use roads under the jurisdiction of the Forest Service for all activities necessary to complete this contract, subject to the limitations and authorizations designated in the Road Order(s) or described in the contract, when such use will not damage the roads or national forest resources, and when traffic can be accommodated safely.

105 - Control of Material 105.02_National_2_25_2019

Add the following to Subsection 105.02c:

105.02(c) Contractor-located sources.

All material (e.g., soil, gravel, sand, borrow, aggregate, etc.) transported onto National Forest System land or incorporated into the work shall be weed-free. The Contracting Officer may request written documentation of methods used to determine the weed-free status of any and all materials furnished by the contractor.

Contractor-provided expertise and methods to establish weed-free status must be appropriate for the weeds of concern in the local area. The following applies to this contract:

A Forest Service weed specialist will inspect proposed sources to determine weed-free status. Provide the Contracting Officer written notification of proposed material sources 30 calendar days prior to use. Written approval of the specific source will be provided to the contractor by the CO. If weed species are present in the proposed source, appropriate mitigation measures may allow conditional use of the source as required by the Contracting Officer.

105.05_National_6_29_2020

105.05 Use of Material Found in the Work.

Delete 105.05 (a) and (b) and the last sentence of the second paragraph and substitute the following:

Materials produced or processed from Government lands in excess of the quantities required for performance of this contract are the property of the Government. Place excess material safely at government-approved location, at no additional cost to government.

106 - Acceptance of Work 106.01_National_7_18_2017

Delete Subsection 106.01 and replace with the following:

106.01 Conformity with Contract Requirements.

Follow the requirements of FAR Clause 52.246-12 Inspection of Construction.

References to standard test methods of AASHTO, ASTM, GSA, and other recognized standard authorities refer to the methods in effect on the date of solicitation for bids.

Perform all work to the lines, grades, cross-sections, dimensions, and processes or material requirements shown on the plans or specified in the contract.

Incorporate manufactured materials into the work according to the manufacturer’s recommendations or to these specifications, whichever is stricter.

Plan dimensions and contract specification values are the values to be strived for and complied with as the design values from which any deviations are allowed. Perform work and provide material that is uniform in character and reasonably close to the prescribed value or within the specified tolerance range. The purpose of a tolerance range is to accommodate occasional minor variations from the median zone that are unavoidable for practical reasons.

When standard manufactured items are specified (such as fence, wire, plates, rolled shapes, pipe conduits, etc., that are identified by gauge, unit mass, section dimensions, etc.), the identification will be considered to be nominal masses or dimensions. Unless specific contract tolerances are noted, established manufacturing tolerances will be accepted.

The Government may inspect, sample, or test all work at any time before final acceptance of the project. When the Government tests work, copies of test reports are furnished to the Contractor upon request. Government tests may or may not be performed at the work site. If Contractor testing and inspection is verified by the Government, the Contractor’s results may be used by the Government to evaluate work for acceptance. Do not rely on the availability of Government test results for process control.

Acceptable work conforming to the contract will be paid for at the contract unit bid price. Four methods of determining conformity and accepting work are described in Subsections 106.02 to 106.05 inclusive. The primary method of acceptance is specified in each Section of work. However, work may be rejected at any time it is found by any of the methods not to comply with the contract.

Remove, repair, or replace work that does not conform to the contract, or to prevailing industry standards where no specific contract requirements are noted. Removing, repairing, or replacing work; providing temporary traffic control; and any other related work to accomplish conformity will be at no cost to the Government.

(a) Disputing Government test results. If the accuracy of Government test results is disputed, promptly inform the CO. If the dispute is unresolved after reasonable steps are taken to resolve the dispute, further evaluation may be obtained by written request. Include a narrative describing the dispute and a proposed resolution protocol that addresses the following:

1. Sampling method;

2. Number of samples;

3. Sample transport;

4. Test procedures;

5. Testing laboratories;

6. Reporting;

7. Estimated time and costs; and

8. Validation process.

If the evaluation requires additional sampling or testing be performed, mutually agree with the Government on witnessing procedures and on sampling and testing by a third-party laboratory. Use a third-party laboratory accredited by the AASHTO accreditation program. Provide proof of the laboratory’s accreditation for the test procedures to be used. Do not use the same laboratory that produced the disputed Government test results or that produced the test results used as a basis for the dispute.

The CO will review the proposed resolution protocol and may modify it before final approval and execution.

The Government will use the approved resolution protocol test results to determine the validity of the disputed testing. If the Government test results are validated, the Contractor will be responsible for all costs associated with developing and performing the resolution protocol. If the Government test results are not validated, the Government will be responsible for all costs associated with developing and performing the resolution protocol.

If the validity of the Government test results cannot be determined, the Contractor and Government will equally share all costs associated with developing and carrying out the resolution protocol.

(b) Alternatives to removing and replacing non-conforming work. As an alternative to removal and replacement, the Contractor may submit a written request to:

1. Have the work accepted at a reduced price; or

2. Be given permission to perform corrective measures to bring the work into conformity.

The request must contain supporting rationale and documentation. Include references or data justifying the proposal based on an evaluation of test results, effect on service life, value of material or work, quality, aesthetics, and other tangible engineering basis. The CO will determine disposition of the nonconforming work.

106.02_National_11_9_2016

Delete Subsection 106.02 and replace with the following:

106.02 Visual Inspection.

Acceptance is based on visual inspection of the work for compliance with the specific contract requirements.

Use prevailing industry standards in the absence of specific contract requirements or tolerances.

106.07_National_1_24_2022

Delete Subsection 106.07.

106.07 Partial and Final Acceptance.

107 - Legal Relations and Responsibility to the Public 107.05_National_7_18_2017

Delete Subsection 107.05.

Delete Subsection 107.05.

107.08_National_1_24_2022

Delete Subsection 107.08 and replace with the following:

107.08 Sanitation, Health, and Safety.

Refer to specific provisions under B(T) 6.0 in the 2400-6(T) or the 2400-13(T) contracts for requirements under this subsection.

108 - Prosecution and Progress 108.00_National_11_9_2016

Delete Section 108 in its entirety.

Delete Section 108.

109 - Measurement and Payment 109.00_National_11_9_2016

Delete Subsections 109.06, 109.07, 109.08, and 109.09:

Delete Subsections 109.06, 109.07, 109.08, 109.09.

109.01_National_2_22_2019

Delete the third paragraph and Table 109-1 of Subsection 109.01 and replace with the following:

109.01 Measurement of Work.

Take measurements as described in Subsection 109.02 unless otherwise modified by the Measurement Subsection of the section controlling the work being performed. Table 109-1 indicates the accuracy required for quantities of the various pay units used in the Schedule of Items. Use this guide to determine the decimal placement in the final payment.

Table 109-1 Decimal Accuracy of Quantities for Final Payment

Pay Item Level of Precision Linear Foot 1

Exception--Timber, Steel, and concrete Piles 0.1 Station 0.1 Mile 0.01 Square Foot 0.1 Square Yard 0.1 Each 1 Acre 0.01 Gallon 1 M-Gals. 0.1 Cubic Yard 1

Exception--Structure Excavation; Sheathing Materials: Bedding, Bed Course, and Backfill Materials; Gabions;

0.1

Exception--Concrete; Masonry 0.01 Pound 1 Ton 0.1

Exception--Calcium Chloride;

Sodium Chloride; Hydrated Lime;

Bituminous Materials; Pavements;

Bed Course Materials

0.01

Hour 0.1

MFBM 0.01

Station Yard 1 Cubic Yard Mile 1 Ton Mile 1

109.02_National_11_9_2016

Add the following sentence to Subsection 109.02(b):

109.02 Measurement Terms and Definitions.

(b) Contract quantity.

Contract quantities will be adjusted only when there are errors in the original design of 15% or more.

153 - Contractor Quality Control 153.00_Regional_2_6_2023

Description

153.01 This work consists of planning and implementing a construction quality process to ensure work conforms to the contract. This work also includes quality control inspection and documentation, recording and submitting measurement notes, and process control sampling and testing. See FAR Clause 52.246-12 Inspection of Construction.

Construction Requirements

153.02 Qualifications.

Submit the following for approval with the quality control plan:

(a) Quality control manager (QCM). Name and title of the individual to be responsible for quality control. For timber sales the Purchaser’s Representative will be designated as the QCM unless otherwise identified by the Purchaser and agreed to by the Forest Service.

(b) Testers. Provide testers with at least one year experience in the type of sampling and testing required, and with one of the following for the type of sampling and testing performed:

(1) NICET Level II certification in highway material or equivalent state or industry certification;

(2) Certification by a regional certification program (such as Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC), Northeast Transportation Technician Certification Program (NETTCP), Southeast Task Force for Technician Training and Qualification (STFTTQ), or Multi Regional Training and Certification (M-TRAC)); or

(3) At least one year employment by an AASHTO accredited laboratory performing equivalent sampling and testing.

153.03 Quality Control Plan (QCP). Develop a QCP addressing all contract work categories. The QCP shall include the following:

(a) Quality control procedures. Description of tests, measurements, or inspections to be performed to ensure work conforms to the contract. Submit written proposals for approval of alternate AASHTO or State approved test methods. Alternate methods may be allowed based on documented equivalence to the specified method.

As a minimum perform process control testing according to the Sampling, Testing, and Acceptance Requirements tables included at the end of each Section where applicable.

(b) Records. Describe the reporting format for all quality control records.

At least 14 days before the start of work, submit the QCP for approval. Do not perform work on a work category unless the quality control for that category is accepted. Approval does not imply that the QCP will result in contract compliance.

Revise the QCP when contract quality requirements are not achieved and when changes occur in the contract, work progress, or personnel.

153.04 Prosecution of Work. Complete the following:

(a) Preparatory phase. When required by a pay item hold a preparatory phase meeting to discuss requirements of the work and the associated quality control process.

(b) Start-up phase.

(1) When required by a pay item hold a start-up meeting to review the planned quality control process.

(c) Production phase.

(1) Inspect, test, and report according to the QCP and evaluate the acceptability of the work produced.

(2) Identify and correct deficiencies.

(3) Request Government inspection and acceptance.

153.05 Sampling and Testing. Inspect commercial laboratory equipment within 45 days of project use.

Have mobile laboratory equipment inspected and calibrated after the laboratory is moved to the project and every time it is moved thereafter. Keep laboratory facilities clean and maintain equipment in proper working condition. Certify that equipment conforms to testing requirements and submit evidence of current calibrations.

Allow the CO unrestricted access to the laboratory for inspection and review. When requested by the CO, provide additional inspections and tests to demonstrate sampling and testing proficiency. Submit proficiency sample test results within 48 hours of sample receipt.

Perform quality control sampling and testing according to the QCP and the sampling, testing, and acceptance requirements table in applicable sections.

When no sampling frequencies are specified, submit the proposed sampling and testing frequencies.

153.06 Certifications. Obtain, review, and verify certifications for work. Submit certifications when required.

153.07 Records and Control Charts. Maintain complete testing and inspection records by road number and pay item number. Make them accessible to the CO.

(a) Quality control and construction operations reports. Prepare weekly, or otherwise agreed to interval, measurement notes showing construction progress by listing quantities of completed work for each pay item per road.

(b) Government Inspection and Acceptance. Requests for Government inspection and acceptance, unless otherwise agreed to, shall include measurement notes listing quantities of completed work by pay item, be signed by the Quality Control Manager, and be certified with the following statement:

“I certify that the information contained in this record is accurate and that work documented herein complies with the contract. Exceptions to this certification are documented as a part of this record.”

153.08 Acceptance. The Contractor's quality control system will be evaluated under Subsection 106.02 based on its demonstrated effectiveness to ensure work conforms to the contract.

Measurement and Payment

153.09 Measure contractor quality control according to Subsection 109.02. The accepted quantities will be paid at the contract price per unit of measurement for the Section 153 pay item listed in the bid schedule. Payment will be full compensation for the work prescribed in this Section. See Subsection 109.05.

155 - Schedules for Construction Contracts 155.00_National_11_9_2016

Delete Section 155 in its entirety.

Delete Section 155.

156 - Public Traffic 156.00_National_2_25_2019

Delete Section 156 in its entirety and replace with the following:

Section 156. – PUBLIC TRAFFIC Description

156.01 This work consists of controlling and protecting public traffic adjacent to and within the project.

Material

156.02 Conform to the MUTCD and the following Sections and Subsections:

Permanent Traffic Control 633

Traffic Signing and Marking Material 718

Concrete Barriers and Precast Guardwalls 618

Temporary plastic fence 710.11

Construction Requirements

156.03 General. Accommodate traffic according to MUTCD, approved traffic control plan and this section.

Perform work in a manner that ensures safety and convenience of the public. Unless otherwise provided for in Table 156-1, keep existing roads open to all traffic during road improvement work, and maintain them in a condition that will adequately accommodate traffic. Delays may not exceed 4 hours at any one time followed by an open period of no less than 30 minutes. Accommodate public traffic on roads adjacent to and within the project until the project is accepted according to Subsection 106.07(b).

Submit traffic control plan at least 30 days prior to intended use. Perform no work that interferes or conflicts with traffic or existing access to the roadway surface until a traffic control plan has been approved.

Post construction signs and traffic control devices in conformance with MUTCD and Forest Service EM 7100-15.

All required signs will be in place and approved prior to beginning work on project.

If the Contractor agrees in writing to allow public traffic to use a new road being constructed prior to completion, it will be considered an existing road for traffic control purposes.

156.04 Temporary Traffic Control. Install and maintain temporary traffic control devices adjacent to and within the project as required by the approved traffic control plan and the MUTCD. Install and maintain traffic control devices as follows:

(a) Furnish and install traffic control devices before the start of construction operations.

(b) All detours outside of clearing limits will be approved in writing by the Contracting Officer as part of the traffic control plan.

(c) Install only those traffic control devices needed for each stage or phase.

(d) Relocate temporary traffic control devices as necessary.

(e) Remove devices that no longer apply to the existing conditions.

(f) Immediately replace any device that is lost, stolen, destroyed, or inoperative.

(g) Keep temporary traffic control devices clean.

(h) Remove all temporary traffic control devices upon contract completion or when approved.

(i) When required, use flaggers certified by the American Traffic Safety Services Association, the National Safety Council, the International Municipal Signal Association, a state agency, or other acceptable organization. Perform the work described under MUTCD Part 6. Use type III, VII, VIII, or IX retroreflective sheeting on flagger paddles. Do not use flags. Flaggers must wear high visibility safety apparel as required by MUTCD 6E.02.

Measurement and Payment

156.07 Do not measure Public Traffic for payment. Payment for contract work is provided indirectly. See Subsection 109.05.

201 - Clearing and Grubbing

201.03_Regional_1_24_2022

Delete the last sentence in the second paragraph of Subsection 201.03.

201.03 General

201.04_Regional_1_24_2022

Delete paragraph (c) and (d) of Subsection 201.04 and replace with the following:

201.04 Clearing

(c) In areas outside the excavation, embankment, and slope rounding limits, cut stumps to within 12 inches or one-third of the stump diameter of the ground, whichever is higher, measured on the side adjacent to the highest ground. For timber sales, stump heights will meet the requirements of the Timber Sale contract; and

(d) Trim tree branches that extend over the road surface and shoulders to attain a clear height of 14 feet. If required, remove other branches to present a balanced appearance.

Trim according to accepted tree surgery practices. Treat wounds with tree wound dressing.

201.06_National_1_24_2022

Delete the first sentence of this Subsection 201.06 and replace the following:

201.06 Disposal

Dispose of merchantable timber designated for removal according to the provisions of the timber sale contract.

202 - Additional Clearing and Grubbing 202.01_Regional_1_24_2022

Delete the Subsection 202.01 and replace the following:

202.01 This work consists of clearing and grubbing within clearing limits as designated in the plans. This work also includes scalloping clearing lines, clearing vistas, thinning vegetation, special clearing and grubbing and the removal of individual trees and stumps designated in the plans that may be outside the clearing limits.

202.04_Regional_1_24_2022

Add the following to Subsection 202.04:

202.04 Selective Clearing.

(a) Roadside Clearing. Cut all brush and small trees, 6 inches in diameter or less at the point of cut, inside the roadside clearing limits and outside the roadway no higher than 12 inches above ground level. If rocks or other obstructions are encountered, cut no higher than 6 inches above the obstruction. Limb live trees with a diameter larger than 6 inches to a height of 14 feet above the road surface.

202.06_Regional_1_24_2022

Add the following to Subsection 202.06:

202.06 Special Clearing and Grubbing.

(a) Roadway and Roadside Clearing and Grubbing. Clear Within the roadside clearing limits. Grub the roadway and horizontally 2 feet beyond each shoulder. Dispose of merchantable timber according to Subsection 201.06

203 - Removal of Structures and Obstructions 203.05_National_1_24_2022

Add the following to Subsection 203.05:

203.05 Disposing of Material.

(e) Windrowing Construction Slash. Place construction slash outside the roadway in neat, compacted windrows approximately parallel to and along the toe line of embankment slopes. Do not permit the top of the windrows to extend above subgrade. Use construction equipment to matt down all material in a windrow to form a compact and uniform pile. Construct breaks of at least 15 feet at least every 200 feet in a windrow. Do not place windrows against trees.

(f) Scattering. Scatter construction slash in designated areas without damaging trees. Limb all logs. Place logs and stumps away from trees, positioned so they will not roll, and are not on top of one another. Limb and scatter other construction slash to reduce slash concentrations. When scattering for erosion control, place construction slash as flat as practicable on the completed slope.

(g) Chipping. Use an approved chipping machine to chip slash longer than 3 feet. Deposit chips on embankment slopes or outside the roadway to a loose depth less than 6 inches. Minor amounts of chips or ground woody material may be permitted within the roadway if they are thoroughly mixed with soil and do not form a layer.

(h) Debris Mat. Use tree limbs, tops, cull logs, split stumps, wood chunks, and other debris to form a mat upon which construction equipment is operated. Place stumps upside down and blend stumps into the mat.

(i) Decking. Remove brush from designated log deck areas. Limb and top logs.

Logs not meeting the Utilization Standards described in Subsection 201.04(c) shall be cut to lengths less than 10 feet and decked in designated log deck location.

Merchantable timber not associated with an existing timber sale shall be cut to length meeting the Utilization Standards described in Subsection 201.04(c).

Deck logs so that logs are piled parallel to one another; can be removed by standard log loading equipment; will not damage standing trees; will not interfere with drainage and will not roll. Keep logs in log decks free of brush and soil.

(j) Removal to designated locations. Remove construction slash to designated locations.

(k) Piling. Pile construction slash in designated areas. Place and construct piles so that if the piles are burned, the burning will not damage remaining trees. Keep piles free of dirt from stumps.

204 - Excavation and Embankment 204.00_Regional_2_8_2023

Delete Section 204 in its entirety and replace with the following.

Section 204. — EXCAVATION AND EMBANKMENT

Description

204.01 This work consists of excavating material and constructing embankments. This work also includes furnishing, hauling, stockpiling, placing, disposing, sloping, shaping, compacting, and finishing earthen and rocky material.

204.02 Definitions.

(a) Excavation. Excavation consists of the following:

(1) Roadway excavation. Material excavated from within the right-of-way or easement areas, except subexcavation covered in Subsection 204.02(a)(2) and structure excavation covered in Sections 208 and

209. Roadway excavation includes all material encountered regardless of its nature or characteristics.

(2) Subexcavation. Material excavated from below subgrade elevation in cut sections or from below the original ground-line in embankment sections. Subexcavation excludes the work required by Subsection

204.05 or 204.06.

(3) Borrow excavation. Material used for embankment construction that is obtained from outside the roadway prism. Borrow excavation includes unclassified borrow, and topping.

(b) Embankment construction. Embankment construction consists of placing and compacting roadway or borrow excavation. This work includes:

(1) Preparing foundation for embankment;

(2) Constructing roadway embankments;

(3) Benching for side-hill embankments;

(4) Constructing dikes, ramps, mounds, and berms; and

(5) Backfilling subexcavated areas, holes, pits, and other depressions.

(c) Conserved topsoil. Excavated material conserved from the roadway excavation and embankment foundation areas that is suitable for growth of grass, cover crops, or native vegetation.

(d) Waste. Excess and unsuitable roadway excavation and subexcavation that cannot be used.

Material

204.03 Conform to the following Subsections:

Topping 704.05 Unclassified borrow 704.06 Water 725.01(c)

204.04 Preparation for Roadway Excavation and Embankment Construction. Clear the area of vegetation and obstructions according to Sections 201 and 203.

Road pioneering, slash disposal, and grubbing of stumps may proceed concurrently with excavation and embankment. Maintain drainage during pioneering operations.

204.05 Conserved Topsoil. When designated, conserve topsoil from roadway excavation and embankment foundation areas. Stockpile conserved topsoil in low windrows immediately beyond the rounding limits of cut and embankment slopes or in other approved locations. Separate conserved topsoil from other excavated material.

When designated, place conserved topsoil on completed slopes according to Section 624.

204.06 Roadway Excavation. Excavate as follows:

(a) Rock cuts. Blast rock according to Section 205. Excavate rock cuts to 6 inches (150 millimeters) below subgrade within the roadbed limits. Backfill to subgrade with topping or other suitable material. Compact the material according to Subsection 204.11.

(b) Earth cuts. Scarify earth cuts to 6 inches (150 millimeters) below subgrade within the roadbed limits.

Compact the scarified material according to Subsection 204.11.

(c) Pioneer Roads. Conduct excavation and placement operations so material to be treated under Section 201 will not be incorporated into the roadway unless specified in the slash treatment method. Maintain drainage during pioneering operations.

Remove snow and ice in advance of the work and deposit beyond the roadway limits in a manner that will not waste material or generate sediment. Do not incorporate snow and ice into embankments. Place snow or ice in a manner to prevent resource damage.

(d) Drainage Feature. Drainage feature includes construction of all ditches, minor channel changes, drainage dips, catch basins, surface water deflectors, and other minor drainage structures. Compact the material according to Subsection 204.11. Excavate on a uniform grade between control points.

Do not disturb material and vegetation outside the construction limits. Retrieve material deposited outside the construction limits. Dispose of unsuitable or excess excavation material according to Subsection 204.14. Replace shortage of suitable material caused by premature disposal of roadway excavation.

Shape to drain and compact the work area to a uniform cross-section at the end of each day's operations.

204.07 Subexcavation. Excavate material to the required limits. Dispose of unsuitable material according to Subsection 204.14. Take cross-sections according to Section 152. Backfill subexcavated area with suitable material in horizontal layers not exceeding 12 inches (300 millimeters) in compacted thickness and compact according to Subsection 204.11. Prevent unsuitable material from mixing with suitable backfill material.

204.08 Borrow Excavation. Use suitable roadway excavation in embankment construction. Do not use borrow excavation when it results in excess roadway excavation. Deduct excess borrow excavation from the total borrow excavation quantity.

Obtain borrow source approval according to Subsection 105.02. Develop and restore borrow sources according to Subsections 105.03 and 105.06. Do not excavate beyond the established limits. When applicable, shape the borrow source to permit accurate measurements when excavation is complete.

204.09 Preparing Foundation for Embankment Construction. Prepare foundation for embankment construction as follows:

(a) Embankment over natural ground. Remove topsoil and break up the ground surface to a minimum depth of 6 inches (150 millimeters) by plowing or scarifying. Compact the ground surface according to Subsection 204.11.

(b) Embankments over an existing asphalt, concrete, or gravel road surface. Scarify gravel roads to a minimum depth of 6 inches (150 millimeters). Scarify or pulverize asphalt and concrete roads to 6 inches (150 millimeters) below the pavement. Reduce particles to a maximum size of 6 inches (150 millimeters) and produce a uniform material. Compact the surface according to Subsection 204.11.

(c) Embankment across ground not capable of supporting equipment. Dump successive loads of embankment material in a uniformly distributed layer to construct the lower portion of the embankment. Limit the layer thickness to the minimum depth necessary to support the equipment.

(d) Embankment on an existing slope steeper than 1V:3H. When shown in the plans cut horizontal steps in the existing slope to a sufficient width to accommodate placement and compaction operations and equipment. Step the slope as the embankment is placed and compacted in layers. Begin each step at the intersection of the original ground and the vertical cut of the previous step.

204.10 Embankment Construction. Incorporate only suitable roadway excavation material into the embankment.

When the supply of suitable roadway excavation is exhausted, furnish unclassified borrow to complete the embankment. Obtain written approval before beginning construction of embankments over 6 feet (2 meters) high at subgrade centerline. Construct embankments as follows:

(a) General. At the end of each day's operations, shape to drain and compact the embankment surface to a uniform cross-section. Eliminate ruts and low spots that could hold water.

During all stages of construction, route and distribute hauling and leveling equipment over the width and length of each layer of material.

Compact embankment side slopes with a tamping foot roller, by walking with a dozer, or by over-building the fill and then removing excess material to the final slope line. For slopes 1V:1¾H or steeper, compact the slopes as embankment construction progresses.

(b) Embankment within the roadway prism. Place embankment material in horizontal layers not exceeding 12 inches (300 millimeters) in compacted thickness. Incorporate oversize boulders or rock fragments into the

12-inch (300-millimeter) layers by reducing them in size or placing them individually as required below.

Compact each layer according to Subsection 204.11 before placing the next layer.

Material composed predominately of boulders or rock fragments too large for 12-inch (300-millimeter) layers may be placed in layers up to 24 inches (600 millimeters) thick. Incorporate oversize boulders or rock fragments into the 24-inch (600-millimeter) layer by reducing them in size or placing individual rock fragments and boulders greater than 24 inches (600 millimeters) in diameter as follows:

(1) Reduce rock to less than 48 inches (1200 millimeters) in the largest dimension;

(2) Distribute rock within the embankment to prevent nesting;

(3) Place layers of embankment material around each rock to a depth not greater than that permitted above. Fill voids between rocks; and

(4) Compact each layer according to Subsection 204.11(a) before placing the next layer.

(c) Embankment outside of roadway prism. When placing embankment outside the staked roadway prism, place material in horizontal layers not exceeding 24 inches (600 millimeters) in compacted thickness. Compact each layer according to Subsection 204.11.

204.11 Compaction. Compact the embankment using one of the following methods as specified.

(a) Placement Method 1. Use AASHTO T 27 to determine the quantity of material retained on a No. 4 (4.75-millimeter) sieve. Compact as follows:

(1) More than 80 percent retained on a No. 4 (4.75-millimeter) sieve. Adjust the moisture content to a level suitable for compaction. Fill the interstices around rock with earth or other fine material as practical.

Use compression-type rollers at speeds less than 6 feet (1.8 meters) per second and vibratory rollers at speeds less than 3 feet (1 meter) per second. Compact each layer of material full width with one of the following and until there is no visible evidence of further consolidation:

(a) Four roller passes of a vibratory roller having a minimum dynamic force of 40,000 pounds (180 kilonewtons) impact per vibration and a minimum frequency of 1000 vibrations per minute;

(b) Eight roller passes of a 20-ton (20-metric ton) compression-type roller; or

(c) Eight roller passes of a vibratory roller having a minimum dynamic force of 30,000 pounds (130 kilonewtons) impact per vibration and a minimum frequency of 1000 vibrations per minute.

Increase the compactive effort for layers deeper than 12 inches (300 millimeters) as follows:

• For each additional 6 inches (150 millimeters) or fraction thereof, increase the number of roller passes in Subsection 204.11(a)(1)(a), by four passes; or

• For each additional 6 inches (150 millimeters) or fraction thereof, increase the number of roller passes in Subsection 204.11(a)(1)(b) and (c), by eight passes.

(2) 50 to 80 percent retained on a No. 4 (4.75-millimeter) sieve. Classify the material according to AASHTO M 145. Adjust the moisture content of material classified A-1 through A-5 to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Adjust the moisture content of material classified A-6 and A-7 to within 2 percent of the optimum moisture content. Use AASHTO T 99 to determine the optimum moisture content of the portion of the material passing a No. 4 (4.75-millimeter) sieve. Multiply this number by the percentage of material passing a No. 4 (4.75-millimeter) sieve, and add 2 percent to determine the optimum moisture content of the material.

Use nonvibratory rollers at speeds less than 6 feet (1.8 meters) per second and vibratory rollers at speeds less than 3 feet(1 meter) per second. Compact each layer of material full width according to Subsection 204.11(a)(1).

(3) Less than 50 percent retained on a No. 4 (4.75-millimeter) sieve. Classify the material according to AASHTO M 145. For material classified A-1 or A-2-4, determine the maximum density according to AASHTO T 99, Method C.

Adjust the moisture content of material classified A-1 through A-5 to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Adjust the moisture content of material classified A-6 and A-7 to within 2 percent of the optimum moisture content.

Use compression-type or vibratory rollers. Compact each layer of material full width to at least 95 percent of the maximum density. Determine the in-place density and moisture content according to AASHTO T 310 or other approved test procedures. When required, use AASHTO T 224 to correct for coarse particles.

(b) Placement Method 2. Adjust the moisture content of the material to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Fill the interstices around rock with earth or other fine material as practical. Operate roller compaction equipment over the full width of each layer until there is no visible evidence of further consolidation or, if when a sheepsfoot roller is used, the roller “walks out” of the layer. Make at least three complete passes. Use compression-type rollers at speeds less than 6 feet (1.8 meters) per second and vibratory rollers at speeds less than 3 feet (1 meter) per second. Ensure rollers meet the following requirements:

(1) Steel wheeled rollers, other than vibratory, capable of exerting a force of not less than 250 pounds per inch (4.5 kilogram/millimeter) of width of the compression roll or rolls.

(2) Vibratory steel wheeled rollers equipped with amplitude and frequency controls with a minimum dynamic force of 30,000 pounds (130 kilonewtons) impact per vibration, specifically designed to compact the material on which it is used.

(3) Pneumatic-tired rollers with smooth tread tires of equal size that will provide a uniform compacting pressure for the full width of the roller and capable of exerting a ground pressure of at least 80 psi (550 Kilopascals).

(4) Sheepsfoot, tamping, or grid rollers capable of exerting a force of 250 pounds per inch (4.5 kilogram/millimeter) of width of roller drum.

(c) Placement Method 3. Adjust the moisture content of the material to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Fill the interstices around rock with earth or other fine material as practical. Operate hauling and spreading equipment uniformly over the full width of each layer until there is no visible evidence of further consolidation. Make at least three complete passes.

(d) Placement Method 4. Adjust the moisture content of the material to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Fill the interstices around rock with earth or other fine material as practical. Operate hauling and spreading equipment uniformly over the full width of each layer.

(e) Placement Method 5. Adjust the moisture content of the material to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Compact the complete surface with a bucket of an excavator larger than 39,000 pounds (18 metric ton) Gross Vehicle Weight using a minimum of three blows. Overlap compaction by ½ width of bucket.

(f) Placement Method 6. Adjust the moisture content of the material to a moisture content suitable for compaction. Compact using an approved mechanical tamper for a minimum of three complete passes.

When compacting with rollers or hauling and spreading equipment is not practical, use approved mechanical tampers for a minimum of three complete passes.

204.12 Drainage Features. Slope, grade, and shape all drainage features. Remove projecting roots, stumps, rock, or similar matter. Maintain all drainage features in an open condition and without sticks, and other debris.

Form furrow ditches by plowing or using other acceptable methods to produce a continuous furrow. Place excavated material on the downhill side so the bottom of the ditch is approximately 18 inches (450 millimeters) below the crest of the loose material. Clean the ditch using a hand shovel or other suitable method. Shape to provide drainage without overflow.

204.13 Sloping, Shaping, and Finishing. Complete subgrade, slopes, drainage features, culverts, riprap, and other underground minor structures before placing aggregate courses. Slope, shape, and finish to the designated tolerance class as defined in Table 204-2 as follows:

(a) Sloping. Leave earth slopes with uniform roughened surfaces, except as described in Subsection 204.13(b), with no noticeable break as viewed from the road. Except in solid rock, round tops and bottoms of slopes including the slopes of drainage ditches. Round material overlaying solid rock to the extent practical. Scale rock slopes. Slope rounding is not required on tolerance class D through M roads.

If a slide or slipout occurs on a cut or embankment slope, remove or replace the material and repair or restore damage to the work. Bench or key the slope to stabilize the slide. Reshape the cut or embankment slope to an acceptable condition.

(b) Stepped slopes. Where required, construct steps on slopes of 1⅓V:1H to 1V:2H. Construct the steps approximately 18 inches (450 millimeters) high. Blend the steps into natural ground at the end of the cut. If the slope contains non-rippable rock outcrops, blend steps into the rock. Remove loose material found in transitional area. Except for removing large rocks that may fall, scaling stepped slopes is not required.

(c) Shaping. Shape the subgrade to a smooth surface and to the cross-section required. Shape slopes to gradually transition into slope adjustments without noticeable breaks. At the ends of cuts and at intersections of cuts and embankments, adjust slopes in the horizontal and vertical planes to blend into each other or into the natural ground.

(d) Finishing. Ensure that the subgrade is visibly moist during shaping and dressing; smooth and uniform, and shaped to conform to the typical sections. Remove material larger than 6 inches (150 millimeters) from the top 6 inches (150 millimeters) of the roadbed. Remove unsuitable material from the roadbed, and replace it with suitable material. Scarify to 6 inches (150 millimeters) below the bottom of low sections, holes, cracks, or depressions and bring back to grade with suitable material.

Maintain proper ditch drainage.

204.14 Disposal of Unsuitable or Excess Material. Dispose of unsuitable or excess material at designated sites or according to Subsection 203.05(a)

When there is a pay item for waste, shape and compact the waste material in its final location. Do not mix clearing or other material not subject to payment with the waste material.

204.15 Acceptance. See Table 204-1 for sampling, testing, and acceptance requirements.

Material for embankment and conserved topsoil will be evaluated under Subsections 106.02 and 106.04.

Excavation and embankment construction will be evaluated under Subsections 106.02 and 106.04.

Subexcavation will be evaluated under Subsections 106.02 and 106.04.

Measurement

204.16. Measure the Section 204 pay items listed in the bid schedule according to Subsection 109.02 and the following as applicable:

(a) Roadway excavation. Measure roadway excavation in its original position as follows:

(1) Include the following volumes in roadway excavation:

(a) Roadway prism excavation;

(b) Rock material excavated and removed from below subgrade in cut sections;

(c) Unsuitable material below subgrade and unsuitable material beneath embankment areas when a pay item for subexcavation is not listed in the bid schedule;

(d) Ditches, except furrow ditches measured under a separate pay item;

(e) Conserved topsoil;

(f) Borrow material used in the work when a pay item for borrow is not listed in the bid schedule;

(g) Loose scattered rocks removed and placed as required within the roadway;

(h) Conserved material taken from pre-existing stockpiles and used in Section 204 work, except topsoil measured under 624; and

(i) Slide and slipout material not attributable to the Contractor's method of operation.

(2) Do not include the following in roadway…