DRAFT_PART_E_SOLICITATION_INSTRUCTION-EVALUATION_1.pdf

SOLICITATION NO. CONTRACT NO. ORDER NO. PARK:

14P2124R0018 [UPDATED UPON AWARD] [UPDATED UPON AWARD] NATIONWIDE

COVERAGE

AMENDMENT NO. DESCRIPTION. PR NO. PAGE NO.

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 1 of 21

PART E,

SOLICITATION

PROVISION,

INSTRUCTION AND

EVALUATION

NATIONWIDE COVERAGE TREE AND

OTHER RELATED SERVICES

(Including Municipal, Urban Forestry and Arboriculture)

1-22-2024

Version 0

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 2 of 21

Table of Contents

PART E, SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

SECTION E, SOLICITATION PROVISIONS, ADDENDUM, INSTRUCTIONS AND EVALUATION

E.1 ADDENDUM TO 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS – COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (SEP 2023)

E.3 ADDENDUM TO 52.212-2 EVALUATION - COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIALS

SERVICES (NOV 2021)

TABLE E.3.1, LEVEL OF CONFIDENCE (1-5) AND DESCRIPTION

ADDENDUM 2.0: ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

ADDENDUM 3.0: ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS INCORPORATED IN FULL TEXT

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 3 of 21

PART E, SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

SECTION E, SOLICITATION PROVISIONS, ADDENDUM, INSTRUCTIONS AND

EVALUATION

Addendum 1.0: Submission Instructions Specific to this Solicitation

E.1 ADDENDUM TO 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS – COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (SEP 2023)

Table E.1.1, Phases

Phase Titles Phase 1, Small Business (SB)

Phase 1, SB, West (Pacific West) Phase 1, SB, National (National Capitol Area) Phase 1, SB, East (Southeast & Northeast) Phase 1, SB, Central (Intermountain & Midwest)

Phase 2, Large Business (optional)

Phase 3, Clarifications and Pricing

INSTRUCTIONS

E.1.1 These are the submission instructions specific to this solicitation. This solicitation is in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Parts 12, and 15. To assure timely and equitable evaluation of proposals, offerors must follow the instructions contained in the solicitation, which is inclusive of all related attachments, templates, etc.. Offerors are required to meet all responsibility requirements in accordance with FAR Part 9. Failure to meet a requirement may result in an offer being ineligible for award. Failure to submit all information required may result in an offer being ineligible for award.

E.1.2 Submitted offers shall be valid for 180 calendar days from the date specified for receipt of offers.

E.1.3. Pool(s): This selection process of this solicitation may result in the selection of one or two pools of awardees. If two pools, one will be for small businesses and the other for large businesses.

E.1.4 Number of awards and business size pools: As a result of this solicitation, the Government intends to award multiple Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract(s) in two pools (if supported).

The potential pools are small businesses and large businesses. The number of awards anticipated to all business sizes is dependent on the outcome of Phase 1. Phase 1 is open and intended to select SMALL BUSINESSES only. Phase 2 is reserved for the selection of LARGE BUSINESS(ES), if supported and needed to provide nationwide coverage. The number of awards is based on best value and the goal to provide quality NATIONWIDE COVERAGE for all service types listed in the solicitation. In addition, the Contracting Officer in determining the number of awards will consider the mix of resources contractor(s) must have, the ability to maintain competition among awardees (i.e., nationwide, each region, every state, every territory, etc.), the expected duration and frequency of service types, and the scope and complexity of requirements. Based on this, a range of 7-25 awards are estimated. However, the government reserves the right to determine the proper number of awards based on the evaluation criteria, which may be more or less ID/IQs than the specified range of 7-25 awards.

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 4 of 21

E.1.4.1 Reservation is made to award one or more EDWOSB (Economically Disadvantaged Woman Owned Small Business) once meeting the requirements of FAR Subpart 19.1503 and 19.1505 and the criteria specified in the solicitation.

E.1.4.2 To achieve the best value for the government, additional information may be requested by and at the discretion of the Contracting Officer. However, in accordance with 52.212-1, “The Government intends to evaluate offers and award contracts without discussions with offerors. Therefore, the offeror’s initial offer [shall] contain the offeror’s best terms from a price and technical standpoint….”

E.1.4.3 All documents must use a company’s UEI instead of a company’s formal name. Be sure to replace references to the company’s names with the company’s UEI. This is to help to maintain objectivity. To comply with this requirement, for instance, instead to stating, “Felling it Right, LLC has been in the tree service business for over 20 years….” State, “KHYZX1HLNF111 has been in the tree service business for over 20 years.” If an UEI does not exist for an affiliate, generate a unique number, and list the unique number under the Summary and Checklist for the affiliate.

E.1.4.3.1 File Naming Convention: See the MS Excel sheet titled Legend Naming Convention for file naming convention requirements.

E.1.4.3.2 [Not Used]

E.1.4.3.3 Proposals will ONLY be accepted via email. No disc, hard copy or faxed proposals will be accepted.

Offerors are to submit an email with the following email subject line: Proposal, 140P2124R0018, Tree Srv., [Region], [Company’s Name].

E..1.4.3.4 PREPROPOSAL MEETING:

Date: xxxXXXXxxx Time: 10:00 am – 12:30 Eastern Time Method: [Zoom/Teams]

To receive the link, submit a reservation with: (1) Names Attending; (2) Titles, (3) Company Name (4) Consent or rejection to share information. Send via email by XXxxxXXX to Jacqueline_scott@nps.gov, email subject line: RSVP, 140P2124R0018, Tree Srv., [Region], [Company’s Name].

E.1.4.3.5 QUESTIONS: To ensure time for a proper response, submit all questions at least 3 business days before the presolicitation meeting and within 3 business days following the presolicitation meeting. Any and all verbal responses to questions are not formal until provided in writing. Submit questions to: Jacqueline Scott, Jacqueline_scott@nps.gov, email subject line: Question, 140P2124R0018, Tree Srv., [Region], [Company’s Name].

E.1.5 THREE PHASED: It is the policy of the Government to provide maximum practicable opportunities in its acquisitions to small business. To support policy, the Government is providing maximum opportunity to small business before large businesses are considered. To accomplish this, the solicitation is issued under a 3 PHASED APPROACH, as follows. (NOTE: Phase 2, Large Businesses, is an optional phase and may be deleted by amendment.)

E.1.5.1 PHASE 1: As a result of this solicitation, the Government intends to award multiple Indefinite Delivery

Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract(s) as a pool of small businesses. The total number of awards is dependent on the results of Phase 1 and Phase 2 (if applicable). Phase 1 is intended to select SMALL BUSINESSES for Phase 3. Large businesses shall not submit offers during this Phase 1. Receipt of such information will not be accepted and automatically deleted. The SBA size standard is NAICS 561730, size standard $9.5 million.

E.1.5.1.1 [Not Used]

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 5 of 21

E.1.5.1.2 [Not Used]

E.1.5.2 PHASE 2: UNRESTRICTED may be dissolved after Phase 1. Phase 2 is intended to select LARGE

BUSINESSES for Phase 3. Phase 2 will be initiated by amendment. One of the following actions will be initiated following the results of Phase 1:

E.1.5.2.1 An amendment is issued to remove Phase 2, the solicitation will become a TOTAL SMALL BUSINESS

SET-ASIDE.

E.1.5.2.2 Amendment to proceed to Phase 2, for LARGE BUSINESSES submissions, which maintains the

UNRESTRICED status. Small business shall not submit offers during this Phase 2. Receipt of such information will not be accepted and automatically deleted.

E.1.5.2.3 PHASE 3 is for PRICING and clarifications. If clarifications are needed, the request will be part of the

Phase 3 invitation.

E.1.6 Submission: During all phases, respondents to this solicitation shall submit proposals via e-mail to the following email address no later than the date and time specified in this solicitation.

The time referenced in Block 8 of the SF1449 is the Eastern Time (ET) Zone, or as amended (via SF 30)

Electronic Commerce (E-mail):

Jacqueline E. Scott, Contracting Officer jacqueline_scott@nps.gov

Email Subject:

Proposal, Solicitation No., Short Title, Region, Company’s Name (Example: Proposal 140P2124R0018, Tree Srv., West, Felling it Right)

The file size is limited to 20 MB per email. Offerors may send multiple emails if needed due to size limitations. Offerors are encouraged to review the timeliness submission requirements for electronic commerce in FAR 52.212-1(f).

E.1.6.1 Any information provided beyond the page limitation listed (if any) will not be evaluated. Offeror are cautioned from submitting excessive and unrelated information.

E.1.6.2 Unless otherwise specified under a factor, all generated pages shall be 8.5” x 11” inches and a minimum margin size of one-half inch on all sides. Fonts shall be readable and a minimum size of 10-point font is recommended for use.

E.1.7 Respondents shall submit a proposal that fully addresses all evaluation factors described in FAR Clause

52.212-2 and its related addendum. To achieve the best value for the government, additional information may be requested by and at the discretion of the Contracting Officer. However, in accordance with 52.212-1, “The Government intends to evaluate offers and award a contract without discussions with offerors. Therefore, the offeror’s initial offer [shall] contain the offeror’s best terms from a price and technical standpoint….”

E.1.8 The offeror submission shall consistently convey an understanding of the requirement, the work to be performed and service types (as proposed). The offeror must provide clear and concise information that demonstrate their ability to properly perform the proposed work on-time, safely, and of the quality required by industry and stated standards.

E.1.9 Summary and Checklist, Required Certification: Upon the Certification by Principal and by providing an offer/submission for consideration, the offeror hereby validates and confirms that the information submitted (as is) is accurate and reflects the proposed for the government’s consideration. Validation includes all information, including (but not limited to) the service types, geographic locations, applicable

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 6 of 21 wage determination, etc. The MS Excel™ is locked to facilitate compliance with the solicitation requirements, submission consistency, and to provide direction on what to fill-in; however, if needed, the MS Excel™ may be unlocked. The password is “Tree.” The offeror’s attention is drawn specifically to the sheet where information is carried over, such as, Geographic Locations, Service Types, All Parks and Services and Wage Determinations. (NOTE: The MS Excel™ sheet “All Park and Services” represents the offerors proposed locations, and service types (include primary and all other services).

(See MS Excel™ sheet Summary and the section Checklist for Certification by Principal)

E.1.10 Non-pricing Factors:

This solicitation consists of proposal templates and other information to facilitate meeting the requirements of this solicitation submission. The templates are included as a MS Excel™ file. They are hereby incorporated into this section by reference. The files that are provided in an editable form shall be submitted in the editable format (MS Excel™) and as a non-editable form, such as an Adobe PDF™ or another compatible format.

The offeror shall respond to this solicitation in accordance with the attached templates format, and as specified below:

PHASE 1: Small Business Only (NAICS: 561730)1 E.2.1 Volume 1

FACTOR 1: Business, Responsibility and Overview

E.2.1.1 Summary and Checklist This is included in the solicitation as a MS Excel ™ sheet and template. Complete the information in its entirety. The information to complete is not highlighted (filled-in green) on the page. Some of the provided information will be used to assess other factors and evaluation criterion. Be sure to complete all information listed. Use and reference the Excel sheet Summary and Checklist for additional information.

E.2.1.2 Standard Form 1449 This is a separate form and file. There is not a MS Excel™ template for this information. Submit the

Standard Form 1449 and have an official with the authority to contractually bind the offeror's company to sign the SF 1449 in accordance with the procedures prescribed in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 4.102, Contractor’s Signature.

E.2.1.3 Amendments This is a form. There is not a MS Excel ™ template for this information. Acknowledge all solicitation amendments using one of the methods set forth in Block 11 of SF 30, the amendment.

As instructed by the Contracting Officer, the only exception may be for small businesses and the SF 30

(amendment) related to Phase 2. All other amendments acknowledgments will be required.

E.2.1.4 Representations, Certifications and Other Statements of Offerors This information is attached and is not included in the MS Excel™ template. Submit as a separate file.

Complete all required representations and certifications if they are not available at www.SAM.gov.

NOTE: To be eligible for an award, a current, active registration at www.SAM.gov is a requirement of this contract; the Government highly recommends completing SAM registration before submitting the offer. (Attached Representation and Certification)

E.2.1.5 Teaming Arrangements

Partnership or Joint Venture agreements (if applicable): Submit copies for consideration, as applicable.

1 PHASE 1 instructions are used for PHASE 2. PHASE 2 is for the large businesses only.

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 7 of 21

E.2.1.6 [Not Used]

E.2.1.7 Qualifications – 52.222-42: [SCLS Matrix] Offerors must identify an additional labor categories that are applicable to the Service Contract Labor Standards (SCLS) by place an "X" under COLUMN J "Applicable to SCLS" and by adding the labor category information: (1) Labor Category; (2) General Labor Categories and Qualifications; (3) Min[imum] Years of Experience; (4) Min[imum] Education;

and (5)/(6) Required License/Certification.

E.2.1.8 Financial Letter [or EMR Narrative]: This is a requirement if the offeror has a EMR rating of 1 or greater, or if an insurance EMR is not available in the offeror’s state. If the EMR rating is 1 or greater, then the offeror must provide a narrative explaining the cause for the rating and any changes implemented to lower the EMR. If an EMR is not available in the offeror’s state, then a FINANCIAL LETTER is required. The financial letter is a dated letter or email from the bank with general information that state the combined financial resources available to the offeror. The combined financial resources would be the account balance and line of credit. The combined resources can be stated in the number of figures. As an example: $100,000 would be 6-figures; $1,000,000.00 would be 7-figures, etc..

E.2.2 Volume 2

FACTOR 2: Technical Approach & Capability

E.2.2.1 Subfactor 2.1, Geographic Locations: This is included in the solicitation as a MS Excel ™ sheet and template. Proposal submitted have a minimum requirement to provide all Primary Services. A slight variation of the following instructions is included in the template: Place an “X” next to the “Geographic Location (State(s) or Nationwide), Region” to propose on a geographic location. For instance, to select Nationwide (upper 48 states), Nationwide (all, including territories), and/or selected state(s) by placing an “X” and/or and “E” in column D (labeled: “Selection(s)). Column D is next to its corresponding columns B and C (labeled: “Geographic Location (States(s) or Nationwide)”, and “Region”, respectively). A minimum of 1 geographic location shall be selected. The 1 geographic location selected shall include all primary services. By placing an “X,” it will indicate that the offeror's has selected a competitive geographic location(s) (also known as typical service area), to include "Removal, Emergency" services. If an “E” is used, it would indicate that the offeror has proposed on specific targeted location(s) for "Removal, Emergency.” An “E” would also indicate that all other Primary Services can be provided, with the intent of primarily providing “Emergency” services for the area.

“Removal, Emergency” services can be provided in a location other than the offerors typical service area. (Also see MS Excel ™, I-Region(s) Map, and I-Parks-Multiple States)

E.2.2.1.1 In accordance with the solicitation, offerors shall specify the geographic location(s) your company proposes for consideration and evaluation. Consideration will be given to the best value (price and non-price factors) in the award of this requirement (ID/IQ). The geographic locations selected requires the performance of all primary services listed. The primary services include arborist (certified, ISA), felling, professional consultant (ISA, ASCA), pruning, emergency removal services, and scheduled hazardous removal services.

E.2.2.1.2 Use and reference the Excel sheet Geographic Locations for additional information.

E.2.2.2 Subfactor 2.2, Service Types: This is included in the solicitation as a MS Excel ™ sheet and template.

The government requires a full spectrum of services (other related services) as scoped in the Base ID/IQ Performance Work Statement. Contractor do not need to provide 100% of the services; however, the government requires 100% of the services and will base selection and the number of awards selections on best value to achieve the goal of Nationwide coverage. To propose on a type of service for considerations: (1) be sure that the PREVIOUS SHEET, Geographic Locations, was properly completed,

(2) select the proposed services by placing an “X” or “E” in the corresponding cell. (See the Example selecting: “Brushing”, “Climber Tree”, “Disease Control/Mitigation”, “Erosion Control (NA),” etc..)

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 8 of 21

Use and reference the Excel sheet Service Types for additional information.

E.2.2.3 Subfactor 2.3, Equipment List: This is included in the solicitation as a MS Excel ™ sheet and template. List relevant equipment that is available to provide the proposed services, its location and whether it is leased on demand (LOD), a long-term lease (LTL) or owned (purchased) (OWN) and age (in years). List additional equipment as needed. Use the drop-down menu in the cell to select either:

LTL, OWN, or LOD. (NOTE: The drop-down menu is an invert triangle to the right of the cell. Click on it to see the selection options.) Also indicate who is or will be in possess of the equipment (i.e. Prime contractor, Sub[contractor] or other (as indicated). Use and reference the Excel sheet Equipment List for additional information.

E.2.2.4 Volume 2-1: Subfactor 2.4, Emergency Services (Page Limitation: 2): This is not a MS Excel ™ template. This will be a separate file. Provide a narrative on the approach to providing on time emergency services in accordance with the proposed geographic locations and Base IDIQ Performance Work Statement.

Identify the company by UEI only in the header (at the top of each page).

Font size of at least 10 pitch.

The narrative shall be at least 3 paragraphs and shall be no more than 2 pages.

E.2.2.4.1 The narrative must include the following as paragraph headers and description:

Paragraph 1: Summary of Proposed Emergency Locations Paragraph 2: Understanding of Emergency Services Paragraph 3: Company’s Approach to Providing On-time Emergency Services

E.2.2.5 Volume 2-2: Subfactor 2.5, Sustainability Approach (Page Limitation: 2): This will be a separate file. This is not included as a MS Excel ™ template. Provide a narrative on the company’s commitment and approach to sustainability, use of bio-preferred products and other related best practices.

Identify the company by UEI only in the header (at the top of each page).

Font size must be at least 10 pitch.

The narrative shall be no more than 2 pages, including any tables, graphics, or images.

As applicable, include a table of the products used, their generic name, and use.

E.2.2.6 Information for Referencing: The following is included in a separate MS Excel™ file for offerors use and reference.

E.2.2.6.1 Region(s) Map: INFORMATION ONLY. Review and reference to understand the regions and the regions’ borders. There are 2 maps embedded in the sheet. One map depicts the 4 contracting operations regions (i.e., West, Central, East, and National). The solicitation may be solicited by these regions. The other depicts the park unit assigned regions, with exception given to parks located in multiple states.

E.2.2.6.2 Parks-Multiple States: INFORMATION ONLY. Review and reference to understand the states of assignment for parks that have borders in multiple states. It should be referenced to understand parks that are included when state(s) are selections. (Also see All Parks & States for more information)

E.2.2.7 PHASE 2 offerors (Large Businesses): See additional information, as amended for this factor and volume. (Reference below, paragraph E.2.6)

E.2.3 Volume 3

Factor 3: Qualifications and Experience

E.2.3.1 Volume 3-1: Subfactor 3.1, Key Personnel, Organizational Chart and Personnel Font size should be at least 10 pitch for Key Personnel and Organizational Charts.

Charts, and table, must be readable if printed. The font may be less than 10 pitch, but not less than 6 pitch. Pages can be up to 11” x 17”.

E.2.3.1.1 Part of Subfactor 3.1, Key Personnel (KP) and Experience (Resumes Page Limitation: 3 pages):

This is not included as a MS Excel ™ template. Resumes are required for Key Personnel only. Submit

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 9 of 21 key personnels’ resume detailing their relevant experience, qualifications, and certifications. The Key Personnel and Experience file will be combined with the Key Personnel, Organizational Chart and Personnel file and submit as a single file. Offeror’s shall reference and review the Qualification-

52.222.42 MS Excel ™ sheet for minimum experience and education requirements for Key Personnel.

Reference Past Performance and Experience factor to denote affiliated Key Personnel with Past Performance. Information provided shall demonstrate the availability of the required skills need to successful perform the service types as proposed, such as (but not limited to) education level, experience, certification, professional affiliations, etc.

E.2.3.1.2 Part of Subfactor 3.1, Organizational Chart and Table (Page Limitation: 6): This is not included as a MS Excel ™ template. This will be a file combined with the Key Personnel, Organizational Chart and Personnel file and shall be in compliance with the below, Small Business Participation Plan. The offeror shall identify the proposed team, including all subcontractors it may utilize under this ID/IQ contract, to include business size and socioeconomic designation (if any). The submitted charts and tables shall convey to the government who and how the proposed work will be carried out successfully (as described and proposed) by key personnel, subcontractor, partners, number of employees, others, etc.. The organizational structural must show the flow/hierarchy of personnel and entities. The offeror shall provide a brief description of each firm’s qualifications, experience, work (tasks) they will perform, the proposed percentage of the work task they will perform, indicate if there is a formal business agreement between the prime and other party, and (lastly) the number of years the parties have worked together (if any).

E.2.3.1.2.1 Part of Subfactor 3.1, Small Business Participation Plan (Applicable to ALL Entities)

The contractor Organizational Chart (above) and Table is combined with the requirement for a small business participation plan. The information submitted must demonstrate the extent of proposed participation/commitment to use small business entities in the performance of this acquisition (as small business prime offerors or small business subcontractors) relative to the objectives and requirements established herein. The Government will review the following:

The extent to which firms as defined in FAR Part 19, are specifically identified in proposals;

The extent to which offerors demonstrate substantive commitment to small business firms, such as, letters of commitment, Joint Ventures, mentor/protégé agreements, or other demonstrations of commitment (i.e., binding commitments will become enforceable/contractual requirements);

Identification of the type and variety of the work small firms are to perform (i.e., binding commitments will become enforceable/contractual requirements)

The extent of participation of small business prime offerors and small business subcontractors in terms of the anticipated value of the total acquisition (total contract value) (i.e., binding commitments will become enforceable/contractual requirements);

The extent to which the offeror provides detailed explanations/documentation supporting the proposed quantitative participation; and

The extent to which the offeror complied with requirements of FAR 52.219-8, Utilization of Small Business Concerns.

E.2.3.1.3 [Not Used]

[Not Used]

E.2.4 Volume 4

Factor 4: Relevant Past Performance and Experience: This is included in the solicitation as a MS Excel ™ sheet and template.

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 10 of 21

Required Magnitude of effort is defined as a project of $250,000.00 or greater. Relevancy is defined as the required by the scope, as defined in the Base IDIQ Performance Work Statement, and matching the proposed service types and geographic locations proposed by the offeror.

Past Performance: The Past Performance template also connects key personnel and other proposed parties (i.e., subcontractors, etc.) with related projects. The offeror shall complete the template and include up to total of 5 projects. The minimum number of past performance projects that shall be submitted by each offeror is 3. Recency: All projects shall be substantially complete projects performed by the prime contractor within the last (6) six years. The projects must be similar to the proposed scope, magnitude of effort listed above, and complexities similar to the proposed. Two (2) past performance projects should be at least $250,000.00. One (1) may be less than $250,000.00, but not should not be less than $150,000.00. All projects must have been performed in the last 6 years from the date of this solicitation. The submitted projects may be the same projects submitted under Key Personnel and Experience or the offeror may elect to include different projects for this submission. All references must be valid references.

Completed Past Performance Questionnaires shall be included in the offeror’s proposal and not sent directly to the agency.

If the prime contractor does not have relevant past performance history, the proposal may include past performance information involving predecessor companies, key personnel who have relevant experience, or subcontractors that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement. The same for experience. If the prime contractor does not have relevant experience, the proposal may include experience involving predecessor companies, key personnel who have relevant experience, or subcontractors that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement. Use and reference the Excel sheet Rel. Past. Perf. & Exp for additional information.

E.2.5 Volume 5

Factor 5: Price List

Volume 5, Price List: This is included in the solicitation as a MS Excel ™ sheet and template.

Completion is required, BUT PRICES ARE NOT REQUESTED AT THIS PHASE. However, a single “Anticipated Annual Escalation Rate” shall be proposed, if an escalation rate is applicable. (See Factor 7, Pricing) The tree services proposed would be in accordance with governmental, industry, and/or the businesses standard practices. A sample of some price lists items proposed on other relevant projects is incorporated to the right of the pricelist MS Excel sheet template. The offeror should consider the list and consider that the resultant award unit prices are fixed price. Use and reference the Excel sheet Price List for additional information.

PHASE 2: Large Business Only (by amendment)

E.2.6 Offerors shall provide all the information required under Phase 1. The following is in addition to the requirements above (Phase 1) and are exclusively for Phase 2, large businesses. The following are additional requirements for Phase 2 (as amended)

E.2.6.1 Volume 2, For offerors to best position themselves to support the objective of this solicitation, and to be competitive for an award, refer to the amendment’s targeted services and geographic areas file when considering and selecting service types and geographic service areas.

E.2.6.2 Volume 6

FACTOR 6: Small Business Subcontracting Plan

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 11 of 21

Factor 6 submission shall be a separate file. There is not a MS Excel™ template for this information.

Large business respondents must complete subcontracting plan in response to the requirements of solicitation clause 52.219-9 Small Business Subcontracting Plan. The National Park Service (NPS) subcontracting goals for Fiscal Year 2024 are:

Category Prime Subcontracting

Small Business 53% 42%

Small Disadvantaged (SDB) 35% 10%

Women Owned (WOSB) 5% 5%

Service Disabled Veteran (SDVOSB) 5% 5%

HUBZone 3% 3%

Indian Small Business Economic Enterprises Bureau specific

12% 3%

E.2.6.1.2.1 Subcontracting plans that contain goals less than the NPS goals shall include rationale as to why the above goals cannot be met.

E.2.6.1.2.1 Also see the attached Small Business Subcontracting Plan template. Offeror may use the attached template or another format that meet or exceed the requirement of FAR Clause 52.219-9, as prescribed by 19.708(b).

PHASE 3: Clarifications and Pricing (by invitation only (all pools and business sizes) E.2.7 This Phase includes non-pricing and pricing factors.

E.2.7.1 Non-Pricing: Respond to the invitation notice, to include clarification questions in accordance with the notice’s instructions. Offeror shall comply with the notice to include any noted page limitations.

E.2.7.2 Pricing Factor: The offeror shall submit pricing for consideration in accordance with the attached templates format, and as specified below. To ensure that major drivers of cost are included in resultant awards, the Government reserves the right to amend the price list information submitted in Phase 1 and or 2, with specific and specified service types, which may or may not be different than the offeror’s proposed price list.

E.2.7.2.1 Volume 7

FACTOR 7: Price This is included in the solicitation as a MS Excel ™ sheet and template. The offeror shall complete the

ID/IQ pricing schedule attached to the solicitation. The ID/IQ pricing schedule project descriptions represents key personnel rates/professional/management rates and Primary Services as described in the MS Excel™ template. They do not represent actual projects. Not all pricing sheet (by service types) will require the number of hours, rates, etc. For instance, Pruning may request the total price and request a list of the affiliated labor category(ies), team size, hourly rates(s) and equipment usage/use with the quantity or unit price. In addition, some prices will be given. For instance, travel and the total for other related services. The information required for proper completion will be detailed in the template, be sure to review each worksheet independently for this information

E.2.7.2.2 Unless otherwise noted, the site conditions for all projects are considered normal. The location is considered LOCAL to the offeror, unless otherwise stated. In additional to pricing, offeror must provide any assumptions made when pricing each Primary Service.

E.2.7.2.3 Price List: The offeror shall submit the unit prices for Volume 5, Factor 5, Price List. In addition to providing hourly rates or a day (daily) rate for the "Description (i.e., Certified Arborist, Crew Leader, COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 12 of 21

Emergency Removal, Scheduled Removal), update the proposed PRICE LIST with Unit Prices.

(Reference Price List from the solicitation Phase 1 or 2).

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 13 of 21

E.3 ADDENDUM TO 52.212-2 EVALUATION - COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIALS SERVICES

(NOV 2021)

E.3.1 The following applies to all Phases of the solicitation, is in accordance with, and in addition to FAR Part

15, “Best Value Continuum” Source Selection Process. This process permits tradeoffs among price and non-cost factors and allows the Government to accept other than the lowest priced proposal.

E.3.2 This solicitation will result in multiple ID/IQ awards. Awards will be established with responsible offerors whose offer conforms to the requirements outlined in this request for proposal (RFP) and is most advantageous to the Government based on the best value determination. The Contracting Officer will determine the best value to the Government based on an evaluation of price with non-price factors.

The combined weight of the non-price factors (Factors 2-5) is more important than price. The evaluation factors below are listed in descending order of importance and represent the key areas of importance to be considered in the source selection decision. They support meaningful comparison and discrimination between and among competing proposals.

Relevant Past Performance and Experience, Factor 4 Qualifications and Experience, Factor 3 Technical Approach & Capability, Factor 2 Price List, Factor 5

E.3.2.1 Except for the following, subfactors (if any) are approximately equal within each factor-- Technical Approach & Capability: Sustainability is less important than the other subfactors.

Technical Approach & Capability: Equipment List and Emergency Services are more important than all other subfactors.

E.3.3 Upon completion of Phase 1 and Phase 2 (if applicable), the Government may perform a comparative evaluation of the offerors (comparing offers to one another) to select the offers that are best suited to fulfill the requirement, which is based on the solicitation’s objective, the offerors response to the factors outlined in the solicitation and their relative importance.

E.3.4 An offeror that receives a confidence rating below a 3 (meaning a 1 or a 2) will not move on in the evaluation process and will not be considered for award. Unless a competitive range is set, all remaining offerors will receive an invitation to Phase 3. Phase 3 is pricing and clarifications. If pricing cannot be determined fair and reasonable, the offer will be illegible for award.

E.3.5 A team of qualified government personnel will evaluate proposals in accordance with the solicitation. A holistic approach is used to determine the confidence level of the non-pricing factors (including subfactors) and of the overall proposal. The level of confidence, is the degree to which the information presented in the proposal conveys to the Government that the offeror (as proposed and submitted) understands the requirement, proposed a sound approach, possesses the knowledge, equipment, and skills, and will be successful in performing the contract on time, within budget, for a fair and reasonable price, of the required standard, and without the need for Government intervention.

E.3.6 In the assessment and evaluation of information, the government may consider, holistically, other related technical information from another factor. For instance, the labor categories, and equipment types proposed (under the pricing factor) would convey an offeror’s technical understanding of the described project and what is needed to properly perform the work. Another related example is experience, qualifications, and past performance. In addition, the government will use other related evaluation information found throughout the solicitation.

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 14 of 21

E.3.6.1 The holistically approach using the Level of Confidence is to determine if the information provided supports the proper execution of the proposed services, service areas and convey the needed capabilities to properly perform and carry out multiple projects. Multiple projects are defined as performing simultaneously— 1 emergency project.

2 other projects of the magnitude stated in the solicitation.

E.3.7 Based upon the Phase 1 evaluation, a minimum of three offers will be selected per geographical location and invited to Phase 3. If the results of Phase 1 do not adequately support the solicitation’s objective of providing quality, full spectrum tree and other related services with Nationwide coverage, which is in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and all U.S. territories, then Phase 2 will be issued by amendment. The opposite and same would apply if adequate coverage is achieved by Phase 1, then Phase 2 will be removed by amendment.

E.3.7.1 Adequate is defined as at least 3 quality offerors for each geographic region (region, states, including territories) that coverages the Primary Services and other related services, to the maximum extent possible.

E.3.7.2 The number of awards stated in the solicitation is a range. The number of awards may be less or more than the stated range of 7-25. The pursuit objective of this solicitation is to provide the full spectrum of tree and other related services (as defined) Nationwide, which is in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and all U.S. territories. To achieve this, the government best value awards will consider the level of confidence, solicitation overall objective, geographic competition, administrative cost, etc..

E.3.7.3 As part of the Phase 1 and 2 evaluation and best value determination, the government will determine in accordance with the stated criteria if an award and the number of awards is advantageous to the government. This will include (but is not limited to)—

Limiting the number of awards in an area deemed to have sufficient competition.

Adding awards to provide the full spectrum of tree and other related services.

E.3.7.4 Including the services provided under Volume 5, Price List, offerors that demonstrate a strong capability (as determined by the assessed Level of Confidence) to cover more area may be given award preference over those that propose few services in fewer areas.

E.3.7.5 If all else is considered equal, an award preference will be given to offers with other small business considerations such as EDWOSB (reference FAR 19.1505(d) and 19.1503). In addition, if considered equal, greater consideration will be given to the information provided in the small business plan, small business participation, small business compliance, such as eSRS, and sustainability approach, etc..

E.3.8 [Not Used]

PHASE 1: Small Business Only (NAICS: 561730) E.3.9 Volume 1

FACTOR 1: Business, Responsibility and Overview Summary and Checklist, including validation and EMR

SF 1449

Amendments, SF 30s Teaming Arrangements (See Small Business Participation Plan: reference the information below under

Volume 3, Factor 3) Qualifications – 52.222-42 [SCLS Matrix] Small Business Participation Plan (Reference the information under Volume 3, Factor 3)

The information must be complete and comply with the solicitation’s instructions.

The information provide may also be used in other areas to gain a holistic understanding of the offeror approach. For instance, region information, local area information, subcontractor information, etc..

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 15 of 21

The offeror shall submit all acknowledgments, and validations. Submissions shall be by an individual with binding authority. The information submitted is used to determine the offeror’s responsibility and support best value, in addition to being used in a holistic view of the offeror’s submission. The information submitted shall be consistent with the information provided in other factored areas.

A EMR rating below 1 is considered an acceptable rate in accordance with industry standard.

E.3.10 Volume 2

Subfactor 2.1: Geographic Locations Subfactor 2.2: Service Types Subfactor 2.3: Equipment List Subfactor 2.4: Emergency Services Subfactor 2.5: Sustainability Approach

The proposal will be evaluated and/or compared on the number of areas proposed by region, service types selected, how the offeror intends to organize and obtain equipment to accomplish the contract requirements, as proposed (service types and in the areas proposed). The factor will also be evaluated to determine the degree to which the proposal demonstrates an understanding of the requirements, as well as the offeror's planned emergency services and sustainability approach.

E.3.11 Volume 3

Factor 3: Qualifications and Experience Key Personnel Resumes Key Personnel (KP) and Experience Organizational Chart and Table Small Business Participation Plan Personnel, Qualifications, SCLS-WD

The proposal will be evaluated on how the offeror intends to organize, staff, and manage the contract and the means that will be used to accomplish the contract requirements, as proposed (service types and in the areas proposed). The factor will be evaluated to determine the degree to which the proposal demonstrates qualification and experience related to the requirement, an understanding of the requirements, as well as the offeror's planned management of consultants and subcontractors, if applicable. Information provided shall demonstrate the availability of the required skills need to successful perform the service types as proposed, such as (but not limited to) education level, experience, certification, professional affiliations, etc.

Key Personnel Experience will be evaluated to determine the degree of and relevance of experience the Key Personnel possess related to the subject requirements. Evaluation of experience will factor in qualifications, the length and degree of experience in the relevant technical areas.

Please note that, as a condition of contract award and performance, should the contractor wish to substitute proposed Key Personnel in their proposal (or during performance, if after award), the replacement staff must possess education and/or experience equivalent to or exceeding that of the individual(s) being replaced, subject to the approval of the Contracting Officer, prior to performance.

Technical information provided under price will also be considered.

Small Business Participation will be evaluated under Volume 1, Factor 1, to determine if the offeror met or exceeded the requirements below:

1. The extent to which firms as defined in FAR Part 19, are specifically identified in proposals

2. The extent to which offerors demonstrate substantive commitment to small business firms, such as, letters of commitment, Joint Ventures, mentor/protégé agreements, or other demonstrations of commitment

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 16 of 21

(i.e., binding commitments will become enforceable/contractual requirements)

3. Identification of the type and variety of the work small firms are to perform (i.e., binding commitments will become enforceable/contractual requirements)

4. The extent of participation of small business prime offerors and small business subcontractors in terms of the value of the total acquisition (total contract value) (i.e., binding commitments will become enforceable/contractual requirements)

5. The extent to which the offeror provides detailed explanations/documentation supporting the proposed quantitative participation

6. Extent to which the offeror complied with requirements of FAR 52.219-8, Utilization of Small Business Concerns (i.e., binding commitments will become enforceable/contractual requirements)

7. Extent to which the offeror complied with requirements of FAR 52.219-9 Small Business Subcontracting Plan (when applicable) (i.e., binding commitments will become enforceable/contractual requirements)

The Government will evaluate the proposal to determine which offeror proposes the best value in terms of Small Business Participation. Offers submitted by a small business prime offeror will also be evaluated and will receive the maximum score for this evaluation criteria.

E.3.12 Volume 4

Factor 4: Relevant Past Performance and Experience

The proposal will be evaluated on how well the offeror performed in the past. The offeror past performance must be on efforts similar in scope and complexity (as proposed) and will be evaluated in the areas of quality of service, timeliness of performance, customer satisfaction and cost control. Past performance will be evaluated in terms of overall relevancy to this project and in terms of overall level of confidence in the firms’ ability to successfully execute and complete this project supported by the indicated past performance.

Offerors demonstrating a higher level of successful past performance in the evaluated areas will be assess a more favorably level of confidence. In the case of an offeror without a record of relevant, recent past performance or for whom information on past performance is not available, the offeror will be evaluated neither favorably nor unfavorably.

NOTE: Offerors are advised that the Government may use data provided by the offeror and data obtained from Government and non-government sources to get a holistic understanding of the offeror’s past performance history.

The Government’s evaluation will consider whether the offeror demonstrates in the proposal experience to execute work concurrently / simultaneously.

Proposals which clearly demonstrate that the offeror has on at least three, contracts of similar scope, magnitude and complexity as the requirements of this solicitation will be more favorably evaluated.

The Government will evaluate the extent to which the Contractor’s previous experience with projects of a similar size, scope and complexity demonstrate its capability to successfully perform the requirements of this RFP and as proposed. Large Businesses small business subcontracting past performance will also be assessed.

E.3.13 Volume 5

Factor 5: Price List (no pricing) The proposal will be evaluated for relevancy, the extent to which the tree service tasks were proposed and holistically if the offeror has demonstrated the qualification, skills, capability and capacity to perform the proposed tree service tasks (relevant work). The information will be used to support the government’s determination for Phase 1 (Phase 2, as applicable).

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 17 of 21

Note the pricing for the proposed service task will be evaluated further under Phase 3 using the evaluation criteria listed under Factor 7, Price.

PHASE 2: Large Business Only (by amendment) E.3.14 Volume 6

FACTOR 6: Small Business Subcontracting Plan

The subcontracting plan will be reviewed in accordance with the stated subcontracting goals.

Subcontracting plans that include goals less than those stated will include rationale as to why the goals cannot be met. Large business entities that submit a proposal without a subcontracting plan will be considered nonresponsive and will not be considered for award.

In addition, small business subcontracting past performance will be evaluated as part of the overall evaluation of past performance.

PHASE 3: Clarifications and Pricing (by invitation only (all pools and business sizes) E.3.15 Non-Pricing: The offeror’s response to the clarification(s) will be considered in the factor and proposal area to which they correspond. Clarifications are not exchanges or discussions and will not be evaluated or regarded as such.

E.3.16 Volume 7

FACTOR 7: Price

Price analysis will be performed in accordance with FAR 15.4. The analysis evaluates the individual price list for services, the individual priced Primary Services and total amount of all Primary Services, which are provided in the Pricing Template.

To ensure that all parties are on equal footing, the Government may apply a consistent differential formula, as needed, to account for the differences in labor cost, by region.

The technical information provided under pricing may also be reviewed, validated, and assessed under other factors. The pricing must reflect an understanding of the work, such as team and labor required, equipment type, mobilization, travel, the risks of working in both remote and populated areas, etc..

Offerors will also be evaluated on the reasonableness of their key assumptions that impacted the price provided.

The price evaluation factor will not be accepted if all the information is not included.

Level of Confidence Description

The Government has high confidence that the offeror, as proposed and submitted, understands the requirement, proposes a sound approach, possesses the knowledge, equipment, and skills, and will be successful in performing the contract on time, within budget, for a fair and reasonable price, of the required standard, and with little or no Government intervention.

4 The Government has confidence that the offeror, as proposed and submitted, understands the requirement, proposes a sound approach, possesses the knowledge, equipment, and skills, and will be successful in performing the

Table E.3.1, Level of Confidence (1-5) and Description

COVERAGE

TREE AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Page 18 of 21

Addendum 2.0: Additional Provisions Incorporated by Reference

The following is considered incorporated by reference for the resultant ID/IQ awards and related task order request for proposals.

52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

This contract incorporates one or more solicitation provisions by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given…