DRAFT PWS Tree Maintenance.pdf

US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS

FORT WORTH DISTRICT

CAPITAL REGION

TREE MAINTENANCE SERVICES

INDEFINITE DELIVERY INDEFINITE QUANTITY

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

1. GENERAL: This is a non-personal services contract to provide all tools, equipment, materials and labor required to achieve the desired results described herein to perform tree removal, trimming, stump grinding, boundary line clearing, road clearing, and other services described herein. The Government shall not exercise any supervision or control over the contract service providers performing the services herein. Such contract service providers shall be accountable solely to the Contractor who, in turn is responsible to the Government.

1.1 Description of Services/Introduction: The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, transportation, tools, materials, supervision, and other items and non-personal services necessary to perform tree trimming, removal, stump grinding, and clearing as defined in this Performance Work

Statement except for those items specified as government furnished property and services. The contractor shall perform to the standards in this contract. These services shall be utilized at Belton, Canyon, Georgetown, Granger, Somerville and Stillhouse Hollow Lakes

1.1.1 Definitions:

a) Contractor: Company structure, including all partners, officers and employees with interest in this contract.

b) Government: Government of the United States of America.

c) Contracting Officer (KO): Person executing this contract on behalf of the Government.

d) Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR): Person designated by letter of designation from KO.

The COR monitors all technical aspects of the contract and assists in contract administration. The COR is authorized to perform the following functions: assures that the Contractor performs the technical requirements of the contract, performs inspections necessary in connection with contract performance, maintains written and oral communications with the Contractor concerning technical aspects of the contract, issues written interpretations of technical requirements; including Government drawings, designs, specifications, monitors Contractor’s performance and notifies both the KO and Contractor of any deficiencies, coordinates availability of Government furnished property, and provides site entry of

Contractor personnel. A letter of designation issued to the COR, a copy of which is sent to the

Contractor, states the responsibilities and limitations of the COR, especially with regard to changes in cost or price, estimates or changes in delivery dates. The COR is not authorized to change any of the terms and conditions of the contract.

e) Safety Manual: EM 385-1-1, Corps of Engineers Safety and Health Requirements Manual, current edition.

f) Performance Standard: Describes the desired results that are to be achieved.

g) Quality Control: Action taken by the Contractor and/or their personnel to document, inspect and control performance of services to ensure specifications and requirements of this PWS are met.

h) Quality Assurance: Action taken by the Government to ensure the Contractor's quality control system is functioning and effective and that the Contractor is providing services which are in accordance with this PWS.

i) Quality Assurance Representative (QAR): Person designated by the Contracting Officer

Representative to perform Quality Assurance Inspections, review invoices, and perform strict contract oversight. The QAR does not have authority to change any terms of the contract.

j) Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP): Plan developed by the Government depicting means

Quality Assurance will be controlled.

k) Contract Discrepancy Report (CDR): Written record of unsatisfactory performance by the

Contractor as observed by the QAR, issued to the Contractor when the performance threshold does not meet the minimum requirements.

l) Georeference: The internal coordinate system of a digital map or aerial photo which can be related to a ground system of geographic coordinates.

1.1.2 Basic Requirements: The following requirements for submitting a quote and receiving an award are now mandatory for conducting business with the DOD Government.

1.1.4 All prospective contractors must be registered in System for Award Management (SAM) database prior to any award resulting from this solicitation. If at time of award, contractor is not registered, award will be made to the next successful “registered” offer. Registration may be accomplished via the internet at www.sam.gov.

1.1.5 Payment: All payments shall be made by Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) or “direct deposit.”

Payment for completed and accepted work will be done on a monthly basis. The Contractor shall only invoice after the end of each month. When the monthly invoicing is submitted, the Contractor shall include all labor hours worked during the month for the submitted invoice.

1.1.6 Permits: The Contractor will, without additional expense to the Government, be responsible for obtaining any necessary licenses, permits, and letters of certification. The Contractor will comply with any applicable Federal, State, County, and Municipal laws, codes, and regulations in connection with the performance of the work specified under this contract.

1.1.7 Veterans Employment Emphasis: In addition to complying with the requirements outlined in FAR

Part 22.13, FAR Provision 52.222-38, FAR Clause 52.222-35, FAR Clause 52.222-37, DFARS 222.13 and

Department of Labor regulations, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) contractors and subcontractors at all tiers are encouraged to promote the training and employment of U.S. veterans while performing under a USACE contract. While no set-aside, evaluation preference, or incentive applies to the solicitation or performance under the resultant contract, USACE contractors are encouraged to seek out highly qualified veterans to perform services under this contract. The following resources are available to assist USACE contractors in their outreach efforts: U.S. Department of Labor Veterans employment, www.vets.gov/

Federal veteran employment information , www.fedshirevets.gov/index.aspx

Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) , http://www.dol.gov/vets/

Veterans Opportunity to Work (VOW) Program , http://benefits.va.gov/vow/

U.S. Army Warrior Transition Command Employment Index , wtc.army.mil/modules/employers/index.html Hiring Our Heroes initiative , www.uschamberfoundation.org/hiring-our-heroes Guide to Hiring Veterans , www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/docs/white_house_business_counc il_-_guide_to_hiring_veterans_0.pdf

1.2. Scope: Provide all personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, transportation, tools, materials, supervision, and other items and non-personal services necessary to perform tree storm damage removal, trimming, dead tree http://www.sam.gov/ file:///C:/Users/m2od9mrh/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/XFFCNFRY/In%20addition%20to%20complying%20with%20the%20requirements%20outlined%20in%20FAR%20Part%2022.13,%20FAR file:///C:/Users/m2od9mrh/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/XFFCNFRY/In%20addition%20to%20complying%20with%20the%20requirements%20outlined%20in%20FAR%20Part%2022.13,%20FAR file:///C:/Users/m2od9mrh/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/XFFCNFRY/In%20addition%20to%20complying%20with%20the%20requirements%20outlined%20in%20FAR%20Part%2022.13,%20FAR file:///C:/Users/m2od9mrh/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/XFFCNFRY/In%20addition%20to%20complying%20with%20the%20requirements%20outlined%20in%20FAR%20Part%2022.13,%20FAR file:///C:/Users/m2od9mrh/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/XFFCNFRY/In%20addition%20to%20complying%20with%20the%20requirements%20outlined%20in%20FAR%20Part%2022.13,%20FAR file:///C:/Users/m2od9mrh/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/XFFCNFRY/In%20addition%20to%20complying%20with%20the%20requirements%20outlined%20in%20FAR%20Part%2022.13,%20FAR file:///C:/Users/m2od9mrh/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/XFFCNFRY/In%20addition%20to%20complying%20with%20the%20requirements%20outlined%20in%20FAR%20Part%2022.13,%20FAR file:///C:/Users/m2od9mrh/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/XFFCNFRY/In%20addition%20to%20complying%20with%20the%20requirements%20outlined%20in%20FAR%20Part%2022.13,%20FAR file:///C:/Users/m2od9mrh/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/XFFCNFRY/wtc.army.mil/modules/employers/index.html%20Hiring%20Our%20Heroes%20initiative http://www.uschamberfoundation.org/hiring-our-heroes%20Guide%20to%20Hiring%20Veterans http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/docs/white_house_business_counc http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/docs/white_house_business_counc removal, stump grinding and boundary line clearing. The objective of these services shall be the removal of hazardous limbs, trees and debris in recreation or public lands. The Contractor shall dispose of tree debris as specified by task order, either through secure transport and disposal in designated areas on Government

Property, chipping on-site or off-site disposal. All tree sizes for removal will be determined by diameter at breast height (DBH). If desired, with COR approval, the Contractor may be allowed to retain material generated from tree trimming, tree removal and boundary line clearing. If the Contractor retains wood from Contractor’s operations, it is the Contractor’s responsibility for the proper disposal or use of the materials and shall not be allowed to return any portion of the materials or by-product back to Government Property.

1.2.1 Tree Trimming and Hazardous Limb Removal: A map of the work area, quantity of trees requiring service and tree marking method will be provided in the issued task order. The Government will mark designated trees with paint or ribbons. The Contractor shall accomplish all cuts by use of a toothed saw, which may be powered (chain, circular, or bar) or mechanical. No chopping tools will be used.

The Contractor shall trim all limbs fifteen (15) feet and lower and/or all dead, broken or damaged limbs greater than fifteen (15) feet high for designated trees as required by task order. All cuts shall be made flush to the branch collar, leaving a clean cut using proper arborist techniques, without shattering or tearing of bark. When removing limbs, greater than three (3) inches in diameter, a three-cut method shall be employed as depicted in ATTACHMENT 5. Limbs shall be removed to nearest healthy, undamaged larger limb if present, otherwise limb shall be removed flush to branch collar of trunk. In no instance shall any branch stubs remain. If designated by COR, specific limbs fifteen (15) feet and lower shall not be removed, but trimming along specific limb may be required. COR may also designate trimming limbs to a lower height. When removing limbs hanging over or adjacent to a structure such as a bathroom, picnic shelter, screened shelter, or office building, special care shall be exercised to prevent damage to the structure. If limbs are removed from under or near electric lines or telephone lines, proper coordination will be made with the utility company.

1.2.2 Tree Removal: A map of the work area, quantity of trees requiring service and tree marking method will be provided in the issued task order. The Government will mark designated trees with paint or ribbons.

The Contractor shall remove entire designated tree with the remaining stump no more than three (3) inches above ground level. Trees may be dead or alive. The Contractor shall accomplish all tree removal by use of a toothed saw, which may be powered (chain, circular, or bar) or mechanical. No chopping tools will be used. A tree shear on a skid steer or similar equipment may be used with the approval of the COR. Tree removal will be classified into the following increments: 1) less than 8 inches diameter breast height (dbh),

2) 8-15 inch dbh, 3) 15-24 inch dbh and 4) greater than 24 inch dbh.

When removing tree adjacent to a structure such as a bathroom, picnic shelter, screened shelter, or office building, special care shall be exercised to prevent damage to the structure. The Contractor shall remove entire designated tree through multiple cuts of limbs and trunks with the remaining stump no more than three (3) inches above ground level.

1.2.3 Road Edge Clearing: A map will indicate which areas along roads will be cleared. All woody vegetation (trees and shrubs) will be removed within a maximum of 10 feet of the road. The COR and Lake

POC may indicate a distance of under 10 ft but will not exceed 10 ft. The COR and Lake Staff will indicate trees that are desirable species and shall not be removed, only trimmed to a height of seven (7) feet above ground or lower height as designated by COR. The Contractor shall accomplish all tree removal by use of a toothed saw, which may be powered (chain, circular, or bar) or mechanical. No chopping tools will be used. Tree mulchers or shredders are generally not allowed in developed park areas, but may be allowed in non-developed areas on a case by case bases after written permission is obtained from the COR. All debris generated will be removed from site and disposed of. All cuts shall be made flush to the branch collar, leaving a clean cut using proper arborist techniques, without shattering or tearing of bark. All cuts shall be made flush to the branch collar, leaving a clean cut using proper arborist techniques, without shattering or tearing of bark. When removing limbs, greater than three (3) inches in diameter, a three-cut method shall be employed as depicted in ATTACHMENT 5. Limbs shall be removed to nearest healthy, undamaged larger limb if present, otherwise branch shall be removed flush to branch collar of trunk. In no instance shall any branch stubs remain. Remaining stumps shall be no more three (3) inches above ground.

1.2.4 Boundary Line Clearing: A map of the designated boundary line to be cleared will be provided in the issued task order. Boundary line clearing shall be increments of a mile. The Contractor shall remove all woody vegetation, including trees and shrubs, with exception of desirable species larger than six (6) inches dbh designated to remain by COR, extending ten (10) foot onto Government Property from the edge of Government Property line without plowing, pushing or otherwise disturbing the natural terrain with heavy equipment. Mulching equipment, such as forestry mulching machines, forestry mulcher or similar equipment, may be used. COR-designated desirable tree species will be marked on-site by the Government to remain and shall be trimmed only. Trimming of desirable species within designated boundary line clearing shall be to a height of seven (7) feet above ground or lower height as designated by COR. Any limbs extending within designated boundary line clearing from Government Property side of boundary line clearing shall be removed. All cuts shall be made flush to the branch collar, leaving a clean cut using proper arborist techniques, without shattering or tearing of bark. When removing limbs, greater than three (3) inches in diameter, a three-cut method shall be employed as depicted in ATTACHMENT 5. Limbs shall be removed to nearest healthy, undamaged larger limb if present, otherwise branch shall be removed flush to branch collar of trunk. In no instance shall any branch stubs remain. Remaining stumps shall be no more three (3) inches above ground.

Woody vegetation originating from private property and overhanging Government Property shall not be removed or disturbed. All woody vegetation debris shall be mulched or chipped on-site at site location and spread evenly so that mulch or chips are no thicker than six (6) inches. Large limbs and trunks too large for chipping or mulching shall be disposed of on Government Property immediately adjacent to boundary line clearing area. No tree debris shall be placed on Government Property line or adjacent private property. No piles, windrows or burning shall be allowed. If present, old abandoned fences shall be cleared from the boundary line clearing and disposed of off Government Property.

The Government Property lines are delineated with official Government Monuments which will be marked with stakes, flagging or paint by the Government. The Contractor shall be responsible for locating the boundary line between these monuments. In any case where line of sight cannot be obtained, standard surveying techniques can be used. In the event of a boundary line dispute with an adjacent landowner, the

Contractor shall notify the COR and the Government may require the Contractor to move work to another location along the boundary line until any uncertainties in the affected area have been resolved. Extreme caution shall be exercised when operating equipment and removing vegetation where the boundary line is adjacent to a homesite, developed lot or is controversial.

1.2.5 Stump Grinding: A map of the work area, quantity of stumps to be ground and stump marking method will be provided in the issued task order. The Government will mark designated stumps with paint or ribbons. Stumps, including all portions of the root flare, shall be removed through grinding to a minimum of three (3) inches below existing soil grade. Depressions created from stump removal operations shall be backfilled with the subsequent stump chips/soil material, compacted by foot compaction and smoothed as evenly as possible returning to existing soil grade. Stump grinding will be classified into the following increments: 1) less than 24 inches, 2) greater than 24 inches. All debris, trash or other material resulting from the Contractor’s operation shall be removed from the area and the worksite shall be restored or cleaned to as near a natural condition as possible upon completion of the work.

1.2.6 Chipping Existing Tree Debris Piles: A map of existing tree debris piles, not generated by Contractor, and number of cubic yards to be chipped will be provided in the issued task order. All designated tree debris piles shall be chipped. All tree debris, before or after chipping, shall be transported to nearest designated disposal area within five (5) miles of worksite on Government Property for disposal as indicated on map issued with task order. Any limbs and trunk pieces too large for chipping shall be securely transported to nearest designated area within Government Property for disposal as indicated on map issued with task order. All debris, trash or other material resulting from the Contractor’s operation shall be removed from the area and the worksite shall be restored or cleaned to as near a natural condition as possible upon completion of the work

1.2.7 Oak Wilt Concerns: Due to Oak Wilt concerns, when work is performed on any oak species between

February 15th to June 15th, the following practices are required:

a) Tree pruning paint shall be applied IMMEDIATELY after cutting to cover exposed wound.

b) All saws shall be disinfected with bleach prior to moving to perform work on another tree.

1.2.8 Disposal of Tree Debris: All tree debris generated from Contractor’s operations under issued task order, including initial tree debris found prior to Contractor’s operations, shall be removed immediately upon completion of individual tree operations. All tree debris shall be securely transported to nearest designated disposal area within five (5) miles of worksite on Government Property for disposal as indicated on map issued with task order, unless issued task order specifies other tree debris disposal methods. Some

Task Orders may indicate that all tree debris will be chipped either onsite at the location work is occurring or transported to a disposal site and chipped at that location.

1.2.9 Vehicle and Equipment Operation: All vehicles and equipment shall remain on improved road and parking surfaces whenever possible. The Contractor shall conduct operations preventing ruts or other damage to the landscape and ensure special care to prevent damage working adjacent to fences, buildings, structures and utilities, including septic, water and electrical lines.

1.2.10 Damages: Any damages resulting from the Contractor’s operations shall be repaired at Contractor’s expense. The Contractor shall inform COR by the end of the work day when damages occur.

1.2.11 Endangered Species Consideration: Belton, Georgetown, and Stillhouse Hollow Lakes provide habitat for endangered golden-cheeked warbler (GCW). Because of GCW nesting season, boundary line clearing shall only be conducted 1 August through 28/29 February at these lakes. Tree trimming, limb removal and tree removal will be on a case-by-case basis during the nesting period.

1.2.12 Reporting of Exposure Hours: The Contractor shall submit the total number of hours worked on each issued task order to the COR at the time the invoice for payment is submitted.

1.2.13 Invoice: Contractor shall submit a complete and accurate invoice upon completion of work by individual task order. Invoices shall include the contract and task order number, the Contractor’s name, address, and contract information as registered in SAM. Prices shall be derived from the contract bid schedule for the appropriate Base and Option year pricing and must match the awarded task order.

1.2.14 Daily Activity Report: Contractor shall submit a Daily Activity Report (DAR) at the end of each day to inform the Government POC about the work completed that day and to help ensure that work does not exceeded quantities listed in the awarded Task Order. Attachment 4 has an example of a Daily Activity

Report. At the Post-Awar Conference, the Contractor will submit an example of the DAR they will be using for approval by the COR.

1.3 Sustainability Requirements: The Contractor shall meet the recycled content requirements set forth by the

EPA. Information and list of EPA-designated products may be found at http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/105366. In addition, the Contractor shall meet the BioPrefered Program requirements set forth by the USDA. Information and list of USDA-designated product categories may be found at (http://www.biopreferred.gov/BioPreferred/faces/Welcome.xhtml).

1.3.1. In the performance of this contract, the Contractor shall make maximum use of products containing recovered materials that are EPA-designated items unless the product cannot be acquired;

(1) Competitively within a timeframe providing for compliance with the contract performance schedule;

(2) Meeting contract performance requirements; or

(3) At a reasonable price.

Information about this requirement is available at EPA’s Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines web site, https://www.epa.gov/smm/comprehensive-procurement-guideline-cpg-program. The list of EPA-designated items is also available at https://www.epa.gov/smm/comprehensive-procurement-guideline-cpg-program#products, items may include, but are not limited to the following products used on-site in http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/105366 http://www.biopreferred.gov/BioPreferred/faces/Welcome.xhtml execution of this contract: toilet tissue, trash can liners, and biobased content cleaners, solvents, detergents and disinfectants.

1.3.2 As required by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (42 U.S.C. 6962(c)(3)(A)(i)), the offeror certifies, by signing this offer, that the percentage of recovered materials content for EPA-designated items to be delivered or used in the performance of the contract will be at least the amount required by the applicable contract specifications or other contractual requirements.

1.3.3 References: FAR Provision 52.223-1 – Biobased Product Certification, FAR Clause 52.223-2 –

Affirmative Procurement of Biobased Products Under Service and Construction Contracts, FAR Provision

52.223-4 – Recovered Material Certification, FAR Clause 52.223-9 – Estimate of Percentage of Recovered

Material Content for EPA-Designated Items, and FAR Clause 52.223-17 – Affirmative Procurement of

EPA-Designated Items in Service and Construction Contracts.

1.4 Period of Performance: This contract is for a base year and three (3) option years. The base contract awarded as a result of this solicitation shall remain in full force and effect from 01 June 2025 or date of the award (whichever is later) thru May 31, 2026. Option years, if exercised, shall be for 12 months each and will begin on June 01 and end on May 31 of each year. All work shall be executed by the issuance of specific task orders. Each issued task order will contain specific details of work to be performed and the individual period of performance of the task order as designated by the KO. This is an Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity contract and not all services may be required.

1.5 General Information

1.5.1 Quality Control The Contractor shall develop and maintain an effective Quality Control (QC) program to ensure services are performed in accordance with this PWS. The Contractor shall develop and implement procedures to identify, prevent, and ensure non-recurrence of defective services. The

Contractor’s QC program is the methods by which the Contractor assures work complies with the requirement of the contract. The Contractor’s Quality Control Plan shall be submitted to the Government for approval at least ten (10) days prior to work and must be approved before the Contractor provides any services under this contract. After acceptance of the QC plan the Contractor shall receive the Contracting

Officer’s acceptance in writing of any proposed change to QC system.

1.5.2 Quality Assurance: The Government shall evaluate the Contractor’s performance under this contract in accordance with the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan. This plan is primarily focused on what the

Government must do to ensure that the Contractor has performed in accordance with the performance standards. It defines how the performance standards will be applied, the frequency of surveillance, and the minimum acceptable defect rate(s). The Lake Manager will designate a Quality Assurance Representative

(QAR) who will perform Quality Assurance Inspections, review invoices, and perform strict contract oversight. Any deficiencies will be annotated on the Contract Deficiency Report (CDR). Attachment 3 shows an example of the CDR. The QAR does not have authority to change any terms of the contract.

1.5.3 Government Holidays: The Contractor shall not perform any work on the following holidays or the

Friday, Saturday or Sunday of the holiday weekend

New Year’s Day Juneteenth Christmas Day

Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday Labor Day

President’s Day Columbus Day

Memorial Day Veteran’s Day

Independence Day Thanksgiving Day

1.5.4 Hours of Operation: Lake Office hours are Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Work performed by

Contractor shall be within Lake Office hours only. Work shall not be allowed on weekends or hours outside of Lake Office hours unless written permission from the COR is obtained. Requests for deviations may be submitted in writing by the Contractor to the COR for consideration and must be agreed upon by the Lake

Manager.

1.5.5 Place of Performance: The work to be performed under this contract will be performed at the following Capital Region Lakes. Attachment 6 shows the geographic area of the lakes. Each lake will specify where on the project the work will take place in each task order.

1.5.5.1 Belton Lake Office: 3110 FM 2271 Belton, TX 76513

1.5.5.2 Canyon Lake Office: 601 COE Road, Canyon Lake, TX 78133.

1.5.5.3 Georgetown Lake Office: 500 Lake Overlook Drive, Georgetown, TX 78633.

1.5.5.4 Granger Lake Office: 3100 Granger Dam Road, Granger, TX 76530

1.5.5.5 Somerville Lake Office: 1560 Thornberry Dr, Somerville, TX 77879

1.5.5.6 Stillhouse Hollow Lake Office: 3740 FM 1670 Belton, TX 76514

1.5.6 Type of Contract: The Government will award an Indefinite Delivery Indefinity Quantity contract.

Task Orders will indicate the line-item quantity, location of treatment and period of performance. All payment shall be made based upon line item pricing for the contract base and option years, as submitted by the Contractor and accepted at contract award.

1.5.7 Security Requirements:

1.5.7.1 Physical Security: The contractor shall be responsible for safeguarding all Government equipment, information and property provided for contractor use. At the close of each work period, government facilities, equipment, and materials shall be secured.

1.5.7.2 Key Control: The Contractor shall establish and implement methods of making sure all keys/key cards issued to the Contractor by the Government are not lost or misplaced and are not used by unauthorized persons. NOTE: All references to keys include key cards. No keys issued to the

Contractor by the Government shall be duplicated. The Contractor shall develop procedures covering key control that shall be included in the Quality Control Plan. Such procedures shall include turn-in of any issued keys by personnel who no longer require access to locked areas. The Contractor shall immediately report any occurrences of lost or duplicate keys/key cards to the Contracting Officer.

1.5.7.3 Antiterrorism/Operations Security

1.5.7.3.1 General security requirements and guidance: The security requirements described below apply to all contract personnel (including employees of the prime Contractor (“Contractor”) and all subcontractor employees) supporting the performance requirements of this contract. The

Contractor is responsible for compliance with these security requirements. Questions regarding security matters shall be addressed to the designated Government representative (e.g., Contracting

Officer Representative (COR), Requiring Activity (RA) representative, or Contracting Officer (if a

COR or other RA representative is not appointed)). Contract personnel are critical to the overall security and safety of US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) installations, facilities and activities, and security awareness training contributes to those efforts. The Department of Defense

(DoD) and Army security training requirements specified below, if applicable, are performance requirements; all applicable contract personnel shall complete initial training within 30 days of contract award or the date new contract personnel begin performance on the contract. Within five business days from the completion of training, the Contractor shall provide written documentation

(e.g., email or memorandum) to the Government representative. The documentation shall include the names of contract personnel trained and which training they completed; the Contractor shall maintain training records as part of their contract files and be prepared to provide copies of training certificates to the Government representative. Contractor personnel and vehicles are subject to search when entering federal installations. Additionally, all contract personnel shall comply with Force Protection Condition (FPCON) measures, Random Antiterrorism Measures

(commonly referred to as “RAMs”), and Health Protection Condition (HPCON) measures. The

Contractor is responsible for meeting performance requirements during elevated FPCON and/or

HPCON levels in accordance with applicable RA plans and procedures—this includes identifying mission essential and non-mission essential personnel. In addition to the changes otherwise authorized by the changes clause of this contract, should the FPCON or HPCON levels at any individual facility or installation change, the Government may implement security changes that affect contract personnel. The Contractor shall ensure all contract personnel are aware of their security responsibilities, including any site-specific requirements identified in local policies or procedures.

1.5.7.3.2 Antiterrorism (AT) Level I Training: All contract personnel requiring routine access to

Army installations, facilities, and controlled access areas, or requiring network access shall complete initial and annual refresher AT Level I awareness training. Online AT Level I awareness training is available at https://jko.jten.mil/ (website subject to change).

1.5.7.3.3 Physical security and access control requirements: All contract personnel requiring physical access to a federal installation or facility shall comply with the access control procedures of that location. Contract personnel requiring unescorted access to meet contract performance requirements on a DoD installation in the US shall be vetted by the installation/facility Provost

Marshal/Directorate of Emergency Services/Security Office using the National Crime Information

Center-Interstate Identification Index (commonly referred to as “NCIC-III”) and Terrorist

Screening Database (commonly referred to as “TSDB”). Contract personnel shall comply with all personal identity verification requirements specified in installation/facility policies and procedures. Contract personnel who do not meet requirements for unescorted access to USACE facilities shall coordinate escorted access with the Government representative, as needed. Contract personnel who receive keys, access cards, or lock combinations that provide access to government-owned property shall comply with key and lock control procedures of the RA.

1.5.7.3.4 Suspicious Activity Reporting training (e.g. iWATCH, CorpsWatch, or See Something, Say Something): All contract personnel shall receive initial and annual refresher training from the

RA representative on the local suspicious activity reporting program. This locally developed training provides contract personnel with general information on suspicious behavior, and guidance on reporting suspicious activity to the project manager, security representative or law enforcement entity.

1.5.7.3.5 Pre-screen candidates using E-Verify Program: Contractors shall comply with the requirements set forth in FAR clause 52.222-54 Employment Eligibility Verification and FAR

Subpart 22.18 in using the E-Verify Program at (https://www.e-verify.gov/) (website subject to change) to meet the contract employment eligibility requirements. Contractors are encouraged to cooperate with Federal and State agencies responsible for enforcing labor requirements to include eligibility for employment under United States immigration laws in accordance with FAR 22.102-

1(i). An initial list of verified/eligible candidates shall be provided to the COR no later than three business days after the initial contract award. When contracts are with individuals, the individuals will be required to complete a Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, and submit it to the

Contracting Officer to become part of the official contract file.

1.5.8 Special Qualifications: None.

1.5.9 Post Award Conference/Periodic Progress Meetings: The Contractor agrees to attend any post award conference convened by the contracting activity or contract administration office in accordance with

Federal Acquisition Regulation Subpart 42.5. The Contracting Officer, Contracting Officers Representative

(COR), and other Government personnel, as appropriate, may meet periodically with the contractor to review the contractor's performance. At these meetings, the Contracting Officer will apprise the contractor of how the Government views the contractor's performance and the contractor will apprise the Government of problems, if any, being experienced. Appropriate action shall be taken to resolve outstanding issues.

These meetings shall be at no additional cost to the Government.

1.5.10 Contracting Officer Representative (COR): If applicable, the (COR) will be identified by separate letter by the Contracting Officer. The COR monitors all technical aspects of the contract and assists in contract administration. The COR is authorized to perform the following functions: assure that the contractor performs the technical requirements of the contract; perform inspections necessary in connection with contract performance; maintain written and oral communications with the contractor concerning technical aspects of the contract; issue written interpretations of technical requirements, including

Government drawings, designs, specifications; monitor contractor's performance and notifies both the

Contracting Officer and contractor of any deficiencies; coordinate availability of government furnished property, and provide site entry of contractor personnel. A letter of designation issued to the COR, a copy of which is sent to the contractor, states the responsibilities and limitations of the COR, especially with regard to changes in cost or price, estimates or changes in delivery dates. The COR is not authorized to change any of the terms and conditions of the contract or awarded task orders. If no COR is appointed, the

Lake Manager will be the Government POC and will be responsible for duties assigned to the COR. If

COR is appointed, the COR will be the Government POC and will coordinate with the Contractor and the

Lake.

1.5.11 Contractor Key Personnel: The following personnel are considered key personnel by the

Government: Manager, Superintendent, and Quality Control Representative. The Contractor shall provide a contract manager who shall be responsible for the performance of the work. The name of this person and an alternate who shall act for the Contractor when the manager is absent shall be designated in writing to the Contracting Officer. The contract manager or alternate shall have full authority to act for the Contractor on all contract matters relating to daily operation of this contract.

1.5.12 Identification of Contractor Employees:

1.5.12.1 The contractor shall provide each of its employees who will be involved in the performance of the contract, on a Government facility, with an identification (ID) badge. The ID badge shall clearly display the contractor’s name and the employee’s name and color photograph. The Contracting Officer or his/her designee shall approve the ID badge before the commencement of contract performance. It is the contractor’s responsibility to ensure that all contractor personnel wear the ID badge at all times when performing work under this contract at a Government facility. Unless otherwise specified in the contract, each contractor employee shall wear the ID badge in a conspicuous place on the front of their clothing and above their waist, except when safety or health reasons prohibit such placement. This requirement is in addition to any Government facility security provisions that require that a

Government-issued security badge also be worn.

1.5.12.2 Contractor personnel shall clearly identify themselves to all attendees as a contractor employee before the commencement of meetings with Government or other contractor personnel.

Contractor personnel shall clearly and immediately identify themselves as a contractor employee when placing, answering or participating in telephone/VTC conversations with Government or other contractor personnel.

1.5.12.3 When contractor personnel send e-mail messages from or to a Government-owned computer, they shall include a signature block that includes their employer’s name and the employee’s full name and e-mail address.

1.5.12.4 Each of the requirements set forth in paragraphs a-c above, must be included in all subcontracts at any tier.

1.5.13 Contractor Travel: Any travel requirement associated with this contract is at the Contractor’s own expense and shall be at no additional cost to the Government

1.5.14 Data Rights Not Applicable.

1.5.15 Organizational Conflict of Interest: In the event an organizational conflict of interest exists, such as the discovery of contractor or subcontractor business of familial relations with a USACE employee, the government will take steps to mitigate the conflict, up to and including termination of the contractor or subcontractor.

1.6. Government Furnished Items

1.6.1 Facilities: The Government will indicate where debris can be disposed of if disposal of tree debris will be on Government property.

1.6.2 Equipment: Not Applicable.

1.6.3 Materials: Not Applicable.

1.7 Contractor Furnished Items

1.7.1 General: The Contractor shall furnish all supplies, equipment, to include specialized safety equipment, facilities, training, certifications, licenses, insurance and management required to perform work under this PWS.

1.7.2 Equipment: The Contractor shall provide all equipment necessary to accomplish the services required by this PWS including but not limited to: lift trucks, dump trucks, chippers, mulchers, stump grinder, chipper, trailers, tarps, tie down devices, ropes, harness gear, scaffolds, ladders, hand saws, pole, power, or chain saws, lopping shears, all-terrain vehicle and equipment necessary for removal of trees, elevated limbs, or small brushy trees or vegetation described in the requirements of the PWS. All equipment must be inspected and approved by the COR or their representative prior to use. Vehicles, equipment, materials, and supplies shall be removed from Government Property at the end of each work day unless approval is given by COR and Lake POC for it to remain onsite. Equipment cannot be leaking fluid and Contractor must have adequate spill prevention supplies to treat any spills or leaks from equipment on Government property. The Government is not responsible for theft, damage or destruction of Contractor’s vehicles, equipment, materials and supplies.

1.7.3. Materials: The Contractor shall provide all materials including, but are not limited to: saw blades, fuel, oil, pruning paint, routine or emergency spill clean-up materials or neutralizers required to safely perform all services required by this PWS and to meet any requirements Texas Commission on

Environmental Quality (TCEQ) or federal guidelines.

1.8 Safety: The Contractor shall develop and execute an effective safety program to ensure all required services are performed safely. The Contractor shall develop and implement procedures to identify, minimize and prevent safety risks in the form of a Safety Plan. The Contractor’s Safety Plan is the methods by which Contractor assures safety of personnel in the work place. One (1) copy of a comprehensive written Safety Plan, including

Activity Hazard Analysis, shall be submitted to the COR for approval by the Government. Any proposed changes to an approved plan shall be submitted, in writing, to the COR for review and approval. The Contractor shall exercise all applicable safety rules in accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration

(OSHA) and all pertinent provision of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Safety and Health Requirements

Manual, EM 358-1-1, most current version. A web based version of this manual may be viewed at www.publications.usace.army.mil/portals/76/publications/engineermanuals/em_385-1-1.pdf OSHA standards are subject to change and such changes may affect the Contractor in their performance during the contract period and shall be at no additional cost to the Government. No work shall commence without an approved safety plan and this requirement will not relieve the Contractor from meeting any period of performance contract obligations. The Contractor shall be responsible for providing and ensuring the proper use of all

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required by OSHA regulation and EM 385-1-1.

1.9 Applicable Publications (Current Editions): The Contractor must abide by all applicable regulations, publications, manuals, and local policies and procedures. This includes EM 385-1-1, OSHA, Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) and TCEQ guidelines.

1.10 Attachment/Technical Exhibit List:

1.10.1 Attachment 1/Technical Exhibit 1 – Performance Requirements Summary

1.10.2 Attachment 2/Technical Exhibit 2 – Deliverables Schedule

1.10.3 Attachment 3: Contract Discrepancy Report

1.10.4 Attachment 4: Example Contractor Daily Activity Report

1.10.5 Attachment 5: Three-cut Limb Removal Method

1.10.6 Attachment 6: Location of Capital Region Lakes

TECHNICAL EXHIBIT 1

Performance Requirements Summary

The contractor service requirements are summarized into performance objectives that relate directly to mission essential items. The performance threshold briefly describes the minimum acceptable levels of service required for each requirement. These thresholds are critical to mission success.

Performance Objective Standard Performance

Threshold

Method of

Surveillance

Task # 1.

Tree Trimming and

Hazardous Limb Removal

Contractor shall trim all limbs fifteen (15) feet and lower and/or broken or damaged limbs above fifteen (15) feet high for designated trees as required by task order. All cuts shall be clean cut and flush to the branch collar or larger limb as required. Tree pruning paint shall be applied for oak species between February

15th to June 15th after cutting to cover exposed wound and saws shall be disinfected with bleach prior to moving to perform work on another tree as required.

All tree debris shall be securely transported to nearest designated disposal area.

Refer to PWS 1.2.1, 1.2.7 and

1.2.8.

Trunks of designated trees free of all limbs 15 feet and lower, unless COR designated a lower height, and free of all broken or damaged limbs above fifteen

(15) feet high, unless COR designated specific limbs or parts of limbs to remain. All cuts flush and clean cut at branch collar or designated specific limbs. Pruning paint applied over entire wound on oak trees between February 15th through June 15th. Area free of all tree debris and all tree debris disposed of at designated

Government Property on-site disposal area or other tree debris disposal methods as specified on issued task order.

100% completion of the work as designated on the issued task order. Full payment will only be made after minimum results have been achieved.

The 100% inspection method will be used to monitor all contract services.

Inspections will be performed by the COR or designated

Quality

Assurance

Representative.

Task # 2

Tree Removal: 1) less than 8 inches diameter breast height

(dbh), 2) 8-15 inch dbh, 3) 15-

24 inch dbh and 4) greater than 24 inch dbh. Contractor shall remove entire designated tree leaving stump no more than three (3) inches above ground level. All tree debris shall be removed immediately upon completion of individual tree operations and securely transported to nearest designated disposal area within five (5) miles of worksite on

Government Property, unless issued task order specifies other tree debris disposal methods.

Refer to PWS 1.2.2 and 1.2.8.

Entire removal of designated tree, including initial tree debris, leaving stump no more than three (3) inches above ground and no damage to surrounding facilities. Area free of all tree debris and all tree debris disposed of at designated

Government Property on-site disposal area or other tree debris disposal methods as specified on issued task order.

on the issued task order. Full payment will only be made after minimum results have been achieved.

The 100% inspection method will be used to monitor all contract services.

Inspections will be performed by the COR or designated

Quality

Assurance

Representative.

Task # 3

Road Edge Clearing Contractor shall remove all woody vegetation (trees and shrubs) within a maximum of 10 feet of the road. All tree debris shall be removed transported to nearest designated disposal area within five (5) miles of worksite on

Government Property as indicated on map issued with task order, unless issued task order specifies other tree debris disposal methods.

Refer to PWS 1.2.3, 1.2.7 and

1.2.8.

Entire removal of designated vegetation, leaving stump no more than three (3) inches above ground and no damage to surrounding facilities. Pruning paint applied over entire wound on oak trees between February

15th through June 15th. Area free of all tree debris and all tree debris disposed of at designated Government

Property on-site disposal area or other tree debris disposal methods as specified on issued task order.

on the issued task order. Full payment will only be made after minimum results have been achieved.

The 100% inspection method will be used to monitor all contract services.

Inspections will be performed by the COR or designated

Quality

Task # 4

Boundary Line Clearing

Contractor shall remove all woody vegetation, including trees and shrubs, with exception of desirable species larger than six (6) inches dbh designated to remain by COR, extending ten

(10) feet onto Government

Property from the edge of

Government Property line.

Trimming of desirable species shall be to a height of seven (7) feet above ground or lower height as designated by COR and all cuts shall be clean cut and flush to the branch collar or larger limb as required. Tree pruning paint shall be applied for oak species between February

15th to June 15th after cutting to cover exposed wound and saws shall be disinfected with bleach prior to moving to perform work on another tree as required.

Woody vegetation originating from private property and overhanging Government

Property shall not be removed or disturbed. Remaining stumps shall be no more three (3) inches above ground. All woody vegetation debris shall be mulched or chipped on-site at site location and spread evenly so that mulch or chips are no thicker than six (6) inches. Large limbs and trunks too large for chipping or mulching shall be disposed of on Government

Property immediately adjacent to boundary line clearing area. Old abandoned fences shall be cleared from the boundary line clearing and disposed of off

Government Property.

Refer to PWS 1.2.4 and 1.2.7.

Entire removal of all woody vegetation within ten (10) feet onto Government Property from the edge of Government

Property line with stumps no more than three (3) inches above ground and chips or mulch spread evenly no thicker than six (6) inches, with exception of desirable species designated by COR and woody vegetation originating from private property and overhanging Government

Property which shall remain.

Any large limbs and trunks too large for chipping or…