U.S. Department of Agriculture

Intermountain Area Tree Planting and Associated Services

Performance Work Statement

DRAFT

Contents

1. General Information

1.1. Background and Purpose

1.2. Scope

1.3. Location and Description

1.3.1. Operating Season

1.3.2. Safety

1.3.3. Access

1.3.3.1. Road Access

1.3.3.2. Locked Gates

1.3.3.3. Walk-in Units

1.3.3.4. Remote Units

2. Definitions

3. Government Furnished Property

3.1. Table of Government Furnished Property

3.2. General Stock Type Descriptions

3.3. Tree Orders and Delivery

3.4. Artificial Shade and ADC Material Orders and Delivery

3.5. Return of Government Furnished Property

4. Technical Specifications

4.1. Tree Preparation, Handling and Care

4.1.1. Tree Transport to Planting Units

4.1.2. Planting Tools

4.1.3. Power Augers

4.1.4. Planting Bags

4.1.4.1. Insulated Bag Liners

4.1.5. Tree Handling and Care

4.1.6. Caches

4.1.7. Tree Transport Within Unit

4.1.8. Tree Preparation

4.2. Planting

4.2.1. Planting Types

4.2.1.1. Regular Spacing Planting

4.2.1.2. Variable Density Planting

4.2.1.2.1. Aspect Planting

4.2.1.2.2. Group/Clump Planting

4.2.1.2.3. Microsite Only

4.2.1.2.4. Space Off Existing or Interplant

4.2.1.3. Per Planter/Hourly Rate for Specialized Tree Planting

4.2.2. Planting Spot Selection

4.2.3. Acceptable Established Trees

4.2.3.1. Acceptable Established Seedlings and Saplings

4.2.3.2. Acceptable Residual Trees

4.2.4. Clearing

4.2.5. Scalping

4.2.6. Tree Planting Procedure

4.2.7. Tree Species or Stock Type Mix

4.2.8. Shade Requirements

4.2.9. Protection Only Requirements

4.2.10. Trees Not Meeting Specifications

4.3. Shading and Animal Damage Control

4.3.1. Artificial Shade Installation, Maintenance or Removal (Tubing)

4.3.2. Animal Damage Control (ADC) Installation, Maintenance, or Removal (Netting or Tubing)

5. Performance Requirements Summary

6. Deliverables/Schedule

7. Key Personnel, Crew Organization, and Communications

7.1. Key Personnel

7.2. Crew Organization

7.3. Communications

8. Inspection and Acceptance

8.1. Contractor Quality Control

8.1.1. Quality Control Plan

8.1.2. Inspections

8.1.2.1. Tree Planting: Regular Spacing Planting

8.1.2.2. Tree Planting: Interplanting

8.1.2.3. Tree Planting: Variable Density - Aspect Planting

8.1.2.4. Tree Planting: Variable Density - Group/Clump Planting

8.1.2.5. Tree Planting: Variable Density - Microsite Only Planting

8.1.2.6. Tree Planting: Variable Density – Space off Existing/Interplanting

8.1.2.7. Tree Planting: Per Planter/Hourly Rate for Specialized Tree Planting

8.1.2.8. Shading/Animal Damage Control

8.1.3. Government Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) .......... Error! Bookmark not defined.

8.1.3.1. Tree Quantity for Per Thousand Tree Unit of Measure (UOM) Error! Bookmark not defined.

8.1.3.2. Per Planter/Specialized Tree Planting (Per Person Per Hour Unit of Measure) ................ Error!

Bookmark not defined.

9. Deliveries or Performance

9.1. Contract Period of Performance

9.2. Contract/Task Order Periods of Performance and Required Rate of Progress

9.2.1. Estimated Start Work Date

9.2.2. Notice to Proceed

9.2.3. Task Order Period of Performance/Contract Time

9.2.4. Work Plan and Schedule

9.2.5. Unsuitable Conditions

9.2.6. Work Completed after the Performance Period ............................. Error! Bookmark not defined.

9.3. Safety Plan

9.3.1. Personal Protective Equipment

9.4. Special Orders

9.5. Work Site Maintenance/Camping

9.5.1. Invasives/Noxious Weeds Protection Requirements

10. Measurement, Remeasurement, and Payment

10.1. Measurement

10.1.1. Per Acre Unit of Measure

10.1.2. Per Thousand Tree Unit of Measure

10.1.3. Per Planter/Hourly Rate for Specialized Tree Planting

10.1.4. Walk-Ins

10.2. Remeasurement

10.3. Method of Payment

10.3.1. Work Quality

10.3.2. Tree Planting Payment Calculation

10.3.2.1. Quality Meets or Exceeds 93 Percent

10.3.2.2. Quality Less Than 93 Percent and At Least 80 Percent

10.3.2.3. Quality Less Than 80 Percent

10.3.3. Netting or Tubing Payment Calculation

10.3.3.1. Quality Meets or Exceeds 93 Percent

10.3.3.2. Quality Less Than 93 Percent and At Least 80 Percent

10.3.3.3. Quality Less Than 80 Percent

10.3.4. Per Person/Per Hour Unit of Measure

10.3.5. Special Situations

10.3.5.1. Remote Project Areas

10.3.5.2. Weed Free Practices

10.4. Unacceptable Work

10.5. Damages

10.5.1. Liquidated Damages

10.5.2. Actual Damages

10.5.3. Excess Trees

10.5.4. Mishandled Trees

10.5.5. Excess Artificial Shade or ADC Material

10.5.6. Mishandled Artificial Shade or ADC Material

10.5.7. Charge Rates

1. General Information

1.1. Background and Purpose

The U.S. Forest Service requires tree planting and associated reforestation services to restore National Forest System lands that have been impacted by wildfire, insects, disease, timber harvest, or other natural or human-caused disturbances. Reforestation activities support the restoration of healthy, resilient forest ecosystems and implementation of applicable National Forest Land Management Plans and other authorized land management objectives.

This contract provides a vehicle to obtain tree planting and related services on an as-needed basis through individual task orders issued within the Intermountain Region. Task orders will identify the specific project locations, quantities, performance requirements, and any site-specific conditions applicable to the work

1.2. Scope

The Contractor shall furnish all labor, equipment, supervision, transportation (i.e., for crews and seedlings), supplies (except those designated as Government furnished property, limited solely to items specifically identified in Section 3), incidentals and associated services necessary to perform the requirements identified in individual task orders issued under this contract. The Contractor is responsible for obtaining all permits, licenses and certifications required to perform unless specifically provided by the Government. The scope of this contract includes, but is not limited to, the transport, care, handling, preparation (if needed for bareroot stock), and planting of trees, natural and artificial shading treatments, animal damage control treatments (i.e., protective netting), and specialized or related services. In the event of conflict between this PWS and an individual task order, the task order shall govern unless otherwise stated,

1.3. Location and Description

USDA Forest Service Lands covered under these specifications include:

Unit Name Unit # Unit Code

Ashley National Forest 0401 ASF Boise National Forest 0402 BOF Bridger-Teton National Forest 0403 BTF Dixie National Forest 0407 DIF Fishlake National Forest 0408 FIF Manti-La Sal National Forest 0410 MLF Payette National Forest 0412 PAF Salmon-Challis National Forest 0413 SCF Sawtooth National Forest 0414 STF Caribou-Targhee National Forest 0415 CTF Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest 0417 HTF Unita-Wasatch-Cache National Forest 0419 UWF

Specific locations, boundary identification, maps, and data for individual planting units or treatment areas will be provided on task orders including GPS coordinates when available. Species, stock type, stock size/age, and all other requirements specifically needed for planting will be outlined on the Unit Information Sheet (UIS) provided with each task order.

Each task order issued by the Government will include, at a minimum, the following items:

• Schedule of Items, including the Period of Performance (see Sections 1.3.1, 9.2.3).

• Statement of Work

• Attachments/Exhibits, including a Unit Information Sheet

The Government may issue concurrent task orders. Task orders may be issued for one or more Forests. The Contractor shall possess sufficient resources to perform accepted task orders concurrently unless otherwise approved by the Contracting Officer. Acceptance of one task order does not relieve Contractor of responsibility for accepted concurrent task orders.

1.3.1. Operating Season

Planting will generally occur during the spring and fall planting seasons listed below::

• Spring Planting Season: March 15 - July 31

• Fall Planting Season: September 1 - October 31

Artificial shading and animal damage control treatments may occur at the time of planting, or as a separate treatment at any other time throughout the general operating season.

Actual planting windows will be identified in each task order.

1.3.2. Safety

The Contractor shall provide a Safety Plan recognizing that planting units may be in areas of snags and burned trees. The safety plan must always be available on the work site. Burned units or fire areas will be designated on Unit Information Sheet and/or area maps within individual task orders.

1.3.3. Access

1.3.3.1. Road Access

Planting units are accessible by four-wheel drive vehicles equipped for mountain driving, except where task orders specify walk-in units. The Government will provide the initial clearing to access points noted on task order maps for units either accessible from roads or for walk-ins. After initial clearing of the access roads by the Government, the Contractor shall clear any subsequent obstacles that block passage to access points. Motorized vehicles cannot be used off agency system roads or trails unless otherwise approved by the District Ranger and documented by the COR.

When access is delayed due to Government-controlled conditions beyond the Contractor’s control, the Contractor shall immediately notify the COR. The Contracting Officer will evaluate whether an extension to the period of performance or other contractual relief is appropriate.

1.3.3.2. Locked Gates

In instances where units are behind locked gates, the Contractor shall close and lock gates after passing through.

The Contractor shall be subject to all restrictions of administrative use. The Contractor shall drive from the locked gate to access points with only the minimum number of vehicles necessary for efficient transport of the crew and trees. No firearms are permitted behind locked gates.

1.3.3.3. Walk-in Units

Units that cannot be directly accessed from open forest roads and require the Contractor to walk more than ¼ mile to the unit. Walk-in distances shall be measured from the designated access point identified in the Unit Information Sheet to the nearest practical boundary of the planting unit unless otherwise specified in the task order. Vehicle access is to the access point identified on the project map. The Contractor shall transport trees, shading, ADC, or other materials and supplies (if required on task orders) from the access point to the unit using the method of his/her choice consistent with tree handling guidelines and restrictions on motorized vehicle use, or other transport method noted on the Unit Information Sheet or task order, unless otherwise excepted in task orders or by the COR.

1.3.3.4. Remote Units

Units that have no motorized vehicle access and the unit is 3 or more miles from the nearest road, requiring additional work to supply trees to planters.

2. Definitions Acceptable Established Seedling. Acceptable established trees are defined as: Conifer – six inches or greater in height that appear to be growing well. Undamaged aspen stems two feet or greater in height. Variations to species and size will be specified in the task order and/or Unit Information Sheet(s).

Acceptable Established Tree. Any live tree meeting diameter specifications in the Task Order Unit Information Sheet(s) will define these requirements; a healthy tree with good form, vigor and foliage coloration, and shall have at least the top 1/4 of the tree in live green foliage. Such a tree shall be free of disease (i.e., dwarf mistletoe brooming), and severe physical damage (i.e., broken out top, three or more forks, leaning more than 30 degrees from vertical, severe crook or severe cambial damage, bark flaking caused by woodpeckers).

Access Point. The point identified for vehicle access to planting areas. This is generally the closest point of access to the planting unit for calculation of walk-in distance or cost. This may be the same place as the Delivery Point.

Animal Damage Control (ADC). Methods for protecting the seedlings from animal damage, particularly big game. May include Vexar-type tubing or flexible netting.

Artificial Shade. Materials not found on the planting site used to shade the tree. May include grow tubes.

Bareroot Tree. A seedling grown in a field and then lifted from the soil when dormant, removing soil from the roots. This includes trees grown in a receptacle container and then transplanted to the bareroot beds (e.g., plug one-half and plug-one trees). Roots should be protected from drying out.

Clean Water and Buckets/Tubs. Water and buckets/tubs used for tree dipping that are free of contaminants that could injure the tree.

Clearing (see scalping). The removal of surface debris in and around the planting spot, exposing mineral soil.

Debris includes dead limbs and branches, duff, litter, rotten or charred wood, moss, loose rock, ashes, snow, and surface frost. Removing this material prevents debris from falling into the planting hole.

Maximum Clearing Depth: The maximum vertical height of debris required to be removed by a planter before a spot is considered unplantable.

Contract Time. See Period of Performance.

Container-Grown Tree. A seedling grown in a receptacle containing soil and nutrients. When the container seedlings are extracted from the receptacle, the soil stays intact around the roots. The soil and roots together are referred to as the container plug; the soil is the container media.

Container Plug. See Container-Grown Tree.

Contracting Officer (CO). Individual with authority to bind the government with their signature on the contract.

Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). The COR is the on-site contract administrator for the Contracting Officer (CO). The duties and responsibilities of a COR are defined in the letter of designation issued by the Contracting Officer.

Contractor.

Cotyledon Scar. The location where the seedcoat had been attached to the seedling. This marks the point where the hypocotyl, which grows upward and turns into the stem and the radicle, which becomes point of differentiation between the root system and the shoot.

Cull Trees. Trees which do not meet the minimum specifications described in Section 3.2 and 4.4.10, or which are obviously dead, severely diseased or damaged, or otherwise should not be planted based on specifications of the individual task order/Unit Information Sheet.

Diameter at Breast Height. The diameter of the stem of a tree measured outside bark at beast height (4.5 feet or

1.37 m) from the ground. On sloping ground, the measure is taken from the uphill side

Delivery Point. The point identified for delivery of trees and other supplies. If there are multiple points for delivery of various items, it will be so noted in the task order. This may be at the planting unit, where a walk-in begins, at the district cooler, etc. Also see Access Point.

Drip Line. The line extending vertically from the exterior edge of a tree’s live crown to the ground.

Excess Trees. Trees that are tallied on the Inspection Plot Sheet that exceed the maximum allowable trees to be planted. These trees are considered wasted trees.

Foreign Material (in planting hole). Large rocks, sticks, litter or similar material not part of the surrounding soil substrate that is in the planting hole after the tree is planted.

Government Technical Monitor (GTM). Individual(s) designated by the CO to assist the COR in monitoring the Contractor’s performance. Previously known as Government Inspector.

Ground Line of Tree Before Planting. The original ground line of the tree before planting is the soil surface level when the tree was in the nursery beds or in the container receptacle. The ground line is represented by the “root collar”. Above this point is stem tissue; below this point is root tissue.

In-box Temperature. The temperature near the center of the box of trees measured with a probe thermometer or similar instrument. This is the temperature of the seedlings while in the shipping box.

Lateral Roots. The horizontal roots extending from the main vertical (tap) root.

MTR. Abbreviation for measurement of 1,000 trees. This abbreviation may also be used for measurement of artificial shade or ADC material and indicates a quantity of 1,000.

Microsite. A plantable spot favorable to seedling survival and growth, such as stumps, down logs, large woody slash, snags, and standing cull trees that provide protection from sun, wind, animals, and other damaging agents.

Period of Performance (also Performance Period or Contract Time). For a parent IDIQ contract, the entire length of time covered by the contract. For a Task Order, all calendar days are allowed for completion of work.

Includes all days of the week including weekends and holidays.

Plantable Spot. An area where a tree can be planted in accordance with all specifications in the contract.

Planting Inspection. The standard planting inspection procedure provided in Exhibit 11. It includes the description of planting violations that result in unsatisfactorily planted trees, plot sizes, calculations for determining planting quality based on trees planted, and similar information.

Protection. Natural and artificial materials that act as an obstacle protecting the tree from animals or other injurious agents. The protection material and effort required by the planter to protect the tree varies depending on the site conditions of each unit.

Quality Assurance (QA). The actions taken by the Government to assess the Contractor’s results to determine that they meet contract requirements.

Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). An organized written document used for quality assurance surveillance. The document contains information about how the Government will assess performance, checklists, and may contain decision tables.

Quality Control (QC). Those actions taken by a Contractor to ensure that work performed conforms to the contract requirements. Quality control can be seen as consisting of four steps: 1) setting cost, performance, safety and reliability standards; 2) comparing the offered product or service with those standards; 3) taking corrective action when necessary; and 4) planning for improvements. Refer to Inspection and Acceptance, FAR 52.212-4 (a), and the Contractor’s Quality Control Plan as described in Section 8.1.1.

Quality Control Plan (QCP). An organized written document of the Contractor’s plan for self-monitoring work prior to Government inspection and acceptance.

Remote Unit. Units that have no motorized vehicle access and the unit is 3 or more miles from the nearest road, requiring additional work to supply trees to planters

Residual Tree. Live trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 5.0” or greater remaining in the unit after natural disturbances or harvest activity. Variations to species and size will be specified in the task order and/or Unit Information Sheet.

Root Collar. The root collar of the tree before planting is the soil surface level when the tree was in the nursery beds or in the container receptacle. The ground line is represented by the “root collar”. Above this point is stem tissue; below this point is root tissue.

Root Length. The root length measured from the original ground line (root collar) of the tree to the end of the main vertical or tap root.

Satisfactorily Planted Tree. A tree that is planted in accordance with all planting specifications.

Scalping. The removal of live vegetation, including roots, in and around the planting hole to reduce competition to the planted tree. Vegetation is removed down to and exposing mineral soil.

Shade. Natural and artificial materials that protect the tree from the sun’s heat and wind.

Stationary Shade Material. Natural material used to shade or protect the tree that is not movable by the planter.

Natural material includes items such as stumps, logs, dead brush, or terrain features used to provide the required protection for a tree. Stationary material generally offers the most shade and protection for seedlings from sun and animal trampling.

Stock. Planting stock, to include tree seedlings, native plants, or shrubs. The terms “stock” and “trees” may be used interchangeably throughout this contract.

Sub Item. Individual units or groups of units considered together for inspection and/or payment.

Terra-Sorb Hydrogel. Compound used to increase the water holding capacity and prevent drought stress to exposed root systems of tree seedlings that are being planted.

Top Height. The length from the original ground line (root collar) of the tree to the top of the terminal leader;

does not include needles extending above the leader.

Transportable Shade Material. Natural material such as woody debris that can be moved to the planting spot to shade the tree from the sun. Although the planter is expected to put reasonable effort into moving shade material, it should be able to be done without putting down the planting tool.

Trees in Possession of the Contractor. The time after trees have been issued to the Contractor. During this time, the Contractor is responsible for all aspects of tree care and accountable for tree quantities.

Tree Runners/Carriers. Individual Contractor personnel sent to the dipping site or delivery point to get trees for the rest of the planting crew. This individual may also perform tree preparation (bareroot dipping and wrapping). The tree runner’s activities must be performed with approval and oversight from the COR or GTM.

Unplantable Spot. An area in which it is not possible to plant a seedling according to specifications due to site conditions such as acceptable established trees, rock, shallow or saturated soils, etc. One unplantable spot is allowed for each single unplantable area equal in size to the average specified spacing. For example: If a single unplantable area of 100 square feet exists on a 10-by 10 foot spacing, one unplantable spot is recognized.

Hoe planting: A spot is considered unplantable if a suitable spot for planting a tree cannot be found after three attempts of throwing the hoe.

Auger planting: A spot is considered unplantable if a suitable spot for planting a tree cannot be found after three attempts at clearing or scalping, and then after three attempts to open the hole in the spot with the auger fail.

Unsatisfactory Planted Tree. A planted tree which fails to meet one or more of the specifications of a satisfactorily planted tree.

Walk-in Units. Units that cannot be directly accessed from open forest roads and require the Contractor to walk more than ¼ mile to the center of the unit; vehicle access is to the ‘access point’ identified on the project map. If the access point and the delivery point are in the same location, the Contractor shall transport trees and materials from that location to the unit using the method of his/her choice consistent with restrictions on motorized vehicles or other transport method noted on the Unit Information Sheet in task orders

Wasted Material. Government-furnished property that is lost or damaged by the Contractor, or which is installed on trees not in accordance with the requirements of the contract. This may include, but is not limited to, installing shade on the wrong species or netting on the wrong tree(s).

Wasted Tree. A tree that is lost, damaged, destroyed or handled contrary to the standards for care of trees.

Planted trees that exceed the maximum allowable number of trees in the Planting Inspection plot procedure are also considered wasted trees.

3. Government Furnished Property The Contractor shall place orders for trees and other Government furnished property as specified in task orders.

The Contractor shall verify quantities and condition of Government- furnished property at the time of receipt and immediately notify the COR of any shortages, damage, or discrepancies before leaving the designated pickup location whenever practicable, Delivery points will be specified in the task order and/or on task order maps.

Only those items specifically identified as Government-Furnished Property within this contract or applicable task order shall be furnished by the Government.

3.1. Table of Government Furnished Property

Item Description Where Delivered

Bareroot Trees (see Section 3.2)

Length of roots and top heights will be defined in task orders. At least 90% of the trees will meet task order specifications. *

As specified in task orders

Item Description Where Delivered

Container-Grown Trees (see Section 3.2)

Length of container plug and top heights will be defined in task orders. At least 90% of the trees will meet task order specifications. *

As specified in task orders

Oversized & Other Stock - Tree Improvement or, Seed Orchard Trees, and Campgrounds (see Section 3.2)

This stock may be bareroot or container stock and potentially be oversized. Root lengths and top heights are highly variable and will be defined in task orders. Container trees may need to be extracted from the container at the planting location. At least 90% of the trees will meet task order specifications. *

As specified in task orders

Shrubs and Native Stock (see Section 3.2)

This stock may be bareroot or container stock and potentially be oversized. Root lengths and top heights are highly variable and will be defined in task orders. Container stock may need to be extracted from the container at the planting location. At least 90% of the stock will meet task order specifications. *

As specified in task orders

Artificial Shade Materials Shade tubing, bamboo stakes, staples, and zip ties. As specified in task orders

Animal Damage Control Materials

Vexar Rigid netting, flexible netting, bamboo stakes, and zip ties. As specified in task orders

Tree Dipping Materials

TerraSorb for dipping. If required, the government will add the appropriate amount of Terrasorb to the dipping water before trees are dipped.

Sontara, Kimtex, or burlap for wrapping to maintain root moisture after dipping.

As specified in task orders

Radios

Forest Service Radios may be provided by each Forest and will be pre-programed with the required channels to contact emergency personnel as needed and/or required by the Government. The Contractor shall exercise reasonable care of Government-issued radios and immediately report loss or damage to the COR.

When included in task orders, they will be provided at the prework meeting or prior to planting.

Gate Locks Government-provided locks may be placed on gates to allow Government and Contractors access to planting units.

When included in task orders, keys or combinations will be provided at the prework meeting or prior to planting.

Reflective Tarps Cover to protect tree boxes provided when determined by COR.

As specified in task orders or provided at the prework meeting or prior to planting.

*Stock that do not meet the minimum size standards shall be returned to the Government or disposed of as directed by the COR (see Section 4.4.10). Occasional lateral roots on individual trees may exceed task order lengths; these shall be planted according to technical specifications or may be returned to the Government as directed by the COR.

3.2. General Stock Type Descriptions

The table below includes a list of stock regularly produced at Lucky Peak Nursery (LPN) and Coeur d’Alene Nursery (CDAN) that may be used on projects covered under this contract. Species and stock types can vary by individual task order and may include those not listed below.

Stock Type

Age/Size Species Description

Bareroot 1+0 PIPO Bareroot seedling grown for approximately one year in field beds

Bareroot 2+0 All conifers A standard bareroot product requiring two growing seasons

Bareroot 3+0 Generally, PIMO3 A large bareroot product requiring three growing seasons Bareroot Plug+1/2 PIPO, LAOC container + bareroot transplant, single-season Container Styro 112/105 All conifers 6.0 cubic inches Container Styro 91/130 All conifers 7.9 cubic inches Container FT-128 All conifers 8.0 cubic inches Container Styro 77/172 All conifers 10 cubic inches Container Styro 45/340 All conifers 20 cubic inches Container 112 All conifers 6.6 cubic inches, 6-inch-long Container 112L Western Larch 10.0 cubic inches, 8-inch-long Container 91 All conifers 7.9 cubic inches, 6-inch-long

Container 98 or 98 Stubby PIAL, PIFL2 10.0 cubic inches

Container 240 Sedges, rushes, bulrushes, and grasses

2.4 cubic inches, 1.0-inch diameter, 4.5-inch-long plug

Container D16 All natives 16.0 cubic inches, 2.0-inch diameter, 7-inch-long plug Container D25 All natives 25.0 cubic inches, 2.0-inch diameter, 10-inch-long plug

Container D40

All natives (primarily large shrub species) and large conifers

40.0 cubic inches, 2.5-inch diameter, 10-inch-long plug

Container Tall 1 Large native shrubs and conifers 0.75 gallon, 4-inch x 4-inch width, 14-inch-long plug

Container 1 gal All conifer 1 gallon pot Container 5 gal All conifer 5-gallon pot

3.3. Tree Orders and Delivery

Government furnished trees shall be inventoried upon Contractor pickup and if authorized, when return. Refer to Exhibit 16 – Tree and Work Hours Tracking Sheet.

ContractorUnless otherwise authorized by the COR in writing, the Contractor shall submit tree orders between 12 and 36 hours prior to delivery; task orders will specify ordering times. This advanced notice is necessary to allow the Government time to prepare trees for planting and for acclimatization if needed. The Contractor shall plant all trees ordered and delivered to the planting unit within 12 hours of delivery, unless otherwise specified in task orders or approved by the COR. Trees shall not be returned to the Government for cooler storage unless approved by the COR. When the COR determines that conditions are unsuitable for planting, the Contractor shall return all unplanted trees to the delivery point with no penalty for delay in planting the delivered trees. If returning trees to storage is authorized, the trees shall be returned to the shipping boxes and marked to indicate the seed lot or other information as specified by the COR. These trees will not be counted as wasted trees. Any trees not planted out and returned without approval by the COR shall be considered wasted trees.

The Contractor shall transport trees from the access point to the planting unit according to Section 4.2.

If the Contractor is required to transport trees from the tree storage cooler to the planting unit, the Contractor shall follow the ordering procedures above. Trees will be picked up at the designated location and transported to the planting unit/s. Once trees are loaded by the Contractor, the Contractor takes custody and responsibility for those trees. Trees shall be transported below 45 degrees Fahrenheit and maintained in an environment best suited for tree survival. (). Trees in the Contractor’s custody that are lost, damaged or wasted may be charged to the Contractor in accordance with rates listed in Section 10.5.7.

3.4. Artificial Shade and ADC Material Orders and Delivery

Government furnished artificial shade and ADC materials shall be inventoried upon Contractor pickup and if authorized, return. The Contractor shall order artificial shade and ADC material generally between 12 and 36 hours in advance of desired delivery; task orders will specify ordering times. Materials will be delivered to access or delivery points as identified in task orders.

3.5. Return of Government Furnished Property

The Contractor shall return unused Government supplies, unplanted trees, all packaging materials, and wrapping materials to the access or delivery point or COR at the end of each planting day. Gate locks or Government-furnished gate keys shall be returned after completion of the planting unit accessed by the gated road.

Failure to return Government Furnished Property may result in damage charges in accordance with RFO FAR 52.245-1 Alternate I, Government Property. (see Section 10.5.7 ).

4. Technical Specifications

4.1. Tree Preparation, Handling and Care

The Contractor shall provide planting tools, bags, and all other necessary tools to perform planting, shading/ADC treatments, and quality control. Required planting tools will be specified in task orders.

4.1.1. Tree Transport to Planting Units

When required by task order, the Contractor shall transport seedlings to access points following standards described in Section 4.2. Transport of planting stock shall be by either fully enclosed trailers or pickups with fully enclosed canopies. Trees may not be carried with petroleum products, petroleum powered tools, or in a petroleum contaminated enclosure.

4.1.2. Planting Tools

Hoedads shall have a minimum blade length of 15 inches and width of 4 inches. Shorter blade length for planting containerized trees may be allowed, subject to COR approval. Length is measured from tip of blade to bottom of handle bracket.

Other hand tools used for scalping and clearing shall be capable of chopping and cutting live or dead vegetation and adequate to create minimum or larger scalp sizes listed in task order Unit Information Sheet(s).

The Contractor shall ensure all planting tools remain in safe operating condition throughout contract performance. Damaged or defective tools shall be repaired or replaced prior to continued use.

4.1.3. Power Augers

Power augers, when required by task orders, shall be lubricated with vegetable oils or similar substances not injurious to trees and shall not leak gas.

4.1.4. Planting Bags

Planting bags shall be a minimum of 15 inches deep, free of defects, and light in color. Planting bags must not be transported with or come into contact to petroleum-based products.

4.1.4.1. Insulated Bag Liners

Task orders will specify if insulated bag liners are required to be used within the planting bag. If planting bag liners are required, planting bags shall always contain bag liners, unless use is waived in writing by the COR.

Bag liners shall be constructed from ½ inch thick closed cell polyurethane, Sontara or Kimtex material surrounded by polyester mesh, or another moisture-retaining liner approved by the COR. They shall be kept saturated with water, but all excess water shall be drained prior to putting trees in the planting bag. Bag liners, when required, shall be furnished by the Contractor.

4.1.5. Tree Handling and Care

The Contractor shall be responsible for the care of trees from the delivery or access points and throughout the time that trees are in their possession to assure they are properly cared for and not damaged or exposed to damaging conditions. Trees not properly cared for may be considered wasted trees. The Contractor shall be aware of environmental hazards which affect tree survival and shall alter crew work schedules and tree handling practices to allow planting under optimal conditions. Care shall be taken to adhere to the following requirements any time trees are in the Contractor’s possession. Noncompliance with these requirements is grounds for damage payments or for termination of the contract. These requirements apply to all planting stock including shrubs/native material.

a) The Contractor shall take precautions to keep roots moist during the entire planting operation.

b) Trees shall be protected from drying, heating, smothering, freezing, crushing, bending, drowning, abrasion, rapid temperature fluctuations, and shall not encounter injurious substances such as petroleum products or petroleum product residues.

c) When Contractor seedling transport is required from storage coolers, shipping containers shall be separated to provide free air movement between boxes. Trees may be placed on racks or inside boxes which will support rack or box weight to prevent crushing. The temperature in the shipping container shall be maintained below 45 degrees F, or like the temperature in the shipping container at receipt, whichever is higher.

d) Shipping containers shall be handled to prevent crushing, punctures, or impact damage. Punctured or torn shipping containers or liners shall be promptly resealed.

e) Seedlings removed from cold storage facilities or shipping containers shall not stand or lie in water, snow or be covered directly with snow.

f) Trees shall not be removed from shipping containers until needed for planting preparation. Shipping containers shall be opened only in full shade and shall not be exposed to direct sunlight.

g) Trees are to be prepared or planted without further root or top pruning or culling. If pruning or culling appears necessary, or if mold, dry roots, or evidence of injury or drying is seen, the condition shall immediately be reported to the COR.

h) Trees that are frozen shall not be handled until completely thawed. They shall be thawed in accordance with written direction from the COR.

i) Containerized stock shall be kept in the baggies they were packed in when placed in planting bags.

j) Bareroot trees shall remain wrapped according to Section 4.3 while in the planting bags.

k) If trees exchange possession between planters, containerized stock shall remain in plastic bags and bareroot trees shall be rewrapped to maintain root moisture (see Section 4.3).

l) Trees in planting bags shall only have tops exposed.

m) Trees carried in planting bags shall not exceed the amount that can be carried and removed without injury, or which can be planted before critical heating or drying occurs.

n) Trees shall not be removed from planting bags until immediately before planting. They should be handled carefully to avoid damage to roots and buds. They shall be gently removed one at a time to prevent injury and quickly inserted into the prepared planting hole.

o) All trees in a planter’s bag should be planted prior to taking breaks.

p) All trees placed in planting bags will be planted and not returned to storage, unless approved in writing by the COR as described in Section 3.

q) In the case of genetic test sites, oversized stock, or shrubs/natives, planting bags may not be applicable.

Specialized stock will come to the site in nursery bags or boxes. Stock will be dipped and handled as directed by the COR or designated GTMs. Individual stock may be issued to the planter at each planting spot as identified and marked by the Government beforehand. Specific needs for each specialized unit will be clarified by the Government before work begins.

4.1.6. Caches

Temporary seedling cache/storage sites shall be allowed within or near the planting units with COR approval.

These sites are intended for staging seedlings on the same day that they are to be planted. Reflective tarps will be utilized to protect the seedlings within the cache.

4.1.7. Tree Transport Within Unit

The Contractor may transport trees from access or delivery points to any areas within the planting unit consistent with the requirements of Section 4.2 and any Forest-specific restrictions to off-road use, unless specifically accepted in task orders or by the COR.

4.1.8. Tree Preparation

All tree preparation shall be subject to Government oversight. All tree preparation will be done in shaded areas and protected from the wind. Shipping containers shall be kept closed except when removing trees to be prepared for planting.

Dipping and wrapping is for bareroot stock only. Container-grown trees will not be dipped or wrapped.

The tree inventory on each nursery box shall serve as the official tree count for dipping operations. No additional counting of trees will be allowed to minimize seedling exposure time outside of boxes or planting bags.

Specifications for Tree Preparation:

a) Water for Tree Dipping. The Contractor shall haul water necessary for dipping operations. Water can be brought with or acquired from a location agreed to, in writing, by the COR.

i. Where required by task orders, Terra-Sorb Hydrogel used in dip water will be provided by the Government (see Section 3 – Government Furnished Property).

b) Dipping Tubs. Dipping tubs shall be provided by the Contractor. The Contractor shall utilize at least one dipping tub per 4 planters. Dipping tubs shall be a minimum of 14 inches deep.

c) Water Dip. The Contractor shall dip the roots of bareroot trees in clean water at the planting site, prior to wrapping and placing trees in the planter’s bag. Dipping in water is intended to increase root moisture.

i. Bareroot stock shall be removed from the shipping boxes and immediately dipped in water. Tree roots shall not be exposed to air for more than 20 seconds.

ii. Trees shall be dipped in water long enough to moisten the tree roots. Roots shall be fully wet, but soil particles shall not be washed off the roots during the dipping process.

iii. Trees shall not be forcibly packed into water tubs during dipping.

d) Wrapping. Immediately after dipping, trees shall be wrapped in a wet wrapping material specified in the task order to maintain root moisture. The wrapping material will typically be Sontara or Kimtex.

i. The Contractor shall wrap trees in bundles of 20 to 50 trees.

ii. Trees shall be wrapped so that the roots are in contact with the wet wrapping material.

iii. Wrapping operations shall occur at the time of each individual bag-up, unless the COR specifies otherwise.

e) Trees shall not be forcibly packed into planting bags and shall not exceed the amount that can be carried and removed without injury.

f) Trees shall be planted immediately after dipping and wrapping.

g) To minimize repeated handling of planting stock and maintain root moisture and planting efficiency, tree dipping and wrapping operations shall be performed as a coordinated crew activity. Individual tree planters shall not routinely return to the dipping site throughout the day to obtain additional planting stock unless specifically authorized by the COR or GTM. When approved by the COR or GTM, the

Contractor may designate one or more crew members as tree runners to transport prepared planting stock from the dipping site to the planting crew. The Contractor shall ensure that all prepared planting stock is transported and handled in accordance with the tree care and handling requirements of this PWS to prevent damage, contamination, or excessive exposure to environmental conditions.

4.2. Planting

4.2.1. Planting Types

4.2.1.1. Regular Spacing Planting

Trees shall be planted to achieve the average trees per acre specified on task order Unit Information Sheet. The average spacing is outlined but it is expected that distribution consistent with achieving the required planting density while selecting the most suitable planting locations. For individual trees, the spacing may be varied as much as 50 percent in any direction to attain the best planting spot, unless otherwise specified in task order Unit Information Sheet. The total number of trees planted per acre will not be materially changed by the method of selecting planting spots. This work shall be bid and compensated on a per acre planted basis. This type of planting may be consistently applied across the unit or may be interplanting, where trees are spaced off existing acceptable trees.

4.2.1.2. Variable Density Planting

Trees will be planted with variable densities, based on details specified in task order Unit Information Sheet.

Planting spot selection and pattern take precedence over spacing requirements. This work will be bid and compensated on a per thousand trees (MTR) basis. Variable density planting generally falls into one of four categories: aspect, group/clump, microsite or space off existing. These categories are outlined below.

4.2.1.2.1. Aspect Planting

Planting density will be variable based on aspect. Desired densities by aspects will be identified in the task order Unit Information Sheet. Each planter should have a compass adjusted for the declination listed on task order Unit Information Sheet.

4.2.1.2.2. Group/Clump Planting

This type of planting is designed to provide a more natural arrangement of trees and take advantage of the best planting sites. Trees will be planted in groups/clumps with unplanted space left between groups.

The Contractor is expected to plant approximately the number of trees per acre listed in the task order, but variation is allowed to create a more natural appearance and to put trees where they have best chance for survival. The task order Unit Information sheet will provide details on group/clump locations and distribution and the target number of trees per acre to be planted in each unit.

4.2.1.2.3. Microsite Only

This type of planting will consist of planting trees as specified in task order Unit Information Sheet to take advantage of the best available microsites within units. Planting spot selection takes precedence over spacing requirements.

4.2.1.2.4. Space Off Existing or Interplant

This type of planting will consist of planting trees to bring the average trees per acre to a desired density specified in the task order Unit Information Sheet, while accounting for existing trees within units. This is interplanting paid per thousand trees planted rather than by acre. This will be used when the existing tree density is unknown or highly variable.

4.2.1.3. Per Planter/Hourly Rate for Specialized Tree Planting The Contractor shall be compensated at the contract hourly labor rate for each authorized worker performing specialized tree planting services, including Key Personnel (see Section 7). Payment will be in accordance with applicable hourly CLIN(s). Crew size and planting specifications will be described in task orders. The Government will identify the work requirements and applicable technical specifications. Point of hire will be the bag-up point for each planting unit. Travel from the Ranger Station to the planting unit is included in the Contractor’s hourly rate and shall not be separately reimbursed. Contractor time charged will start with tree bag-

up. Examples of this type of work include but are not limited to:

• Planting in seed orchards or tree improvement areas. Planting stock is typically in 1-gallon pots or a mix of any stock types of varying ages planted on a variety of substrates.

• Planting of Genetic Tests. Planting stock could vary and may be a single stock type or a mix of any stock types of varying ages. Planting will occur on a specified grid, and trees will be required to be planted within one foot of pre-designated locations. This may require site preparation such as removal of woody debris and/or clearing of brush.

• Planting in timber harvest units or disturbed areas (e.g., wildfire) for which the exact acreage is not known.

• Revegetation of campgrounds or other restoration projects utilizing a variety of native grass, shrub or tree species with a variety of stock types.

• Planting high value seedlings to ensure trees are planted in the best available microsites. Specifications to be included in the task order/Unit Information Sheet.

• Planting areas that may require considerable walk-ins. This may also require carrying tree boxes to the planting site itself. Exact distances and planting specifications will be designated in the task order/Unit Information Sheet.

• Loading trees in government vehicles prior to planting.

4.2.2. Planting Spot Selection

Trees shall be planted in the best available microsites and soil conditions. It is expected that an irregular distribution will result as planters avoid acceptable established trees, rock, or shallow or saturated soils. For individual trees, the spacing may be varied as much as 50% in any direction to attain the best plantable spot, unless otherwise specified in task order Unit Information Sheet. The total number of trees planted shall not be materially changed by the method of selecting planting spots. For Variable Density and hourly Planting, the Unit Information Sheet with each task order will specify how planting spots will be identified.

Trees will be planted up to the edge of all unit boundaries, at the proper spacing requirement. Temporary roads, skid trails, cut/fill slopes, and fire lines will be planted where compaction, soil availability and general plantability permits, unless otherwise directed in the task order.

The Contractor will make at least three attempts to find a plantable spot. Should the initial attempt to open a planting hole fail because of subsurface rocks, roots, saturated soil, standing water, or other obstacles, a second effort shall be made in a slightly different part of the planting spot. If this effort fails for similar reasons, a third attempt will be made in another spot. If the third effort fails, the spot shall be abandoned as unplantable.

4.2.3. Acceptable Established Trees

4.2.3.1. Acceptable Established Seedlings and Saplings

A tree shall not be planted in direct competition with acceptable established seedlings, or saplings. The task order Unit Information Sheet will define acceptable established seedling and sapling requirements. Trees not meeting requirements shall be disregarded and a seedling planted according to task order specifications.

4.2.3.2. Acceptable Residual Trees

A tree shall not be planted within less than the prescribed spacing from the bole or within the drip line of a residual tree, unless otherwise specified in a task order or excepted by the COR. Acceptable Residual trees species and sizes are listed in the task order Unit Information Sheet.

4.2.4. Clearing

Each planting spot shall be free of surface debris to prevent foreign material from falling into the hole. The standard clearing will be 12 inches square, anything different will be an add-on item. All debris down to the mineral soil surface shall be removed by the Contractor according to the size and depth specified on task order Unit Information Sheet. Debris to be removed includes dead limbs and branches, duff, litter, dry soil, rotten or charred wood, moss, loose rock, ashes, snow and surface frost. Small down woody material such as branches and limbs shall not be included in the measurement for maximum clearing depth. If the clearing of branches and limbs can be done with a reasonable effort, without setting aside the scalping tool, the spot shall be considered plantable.

4.2.5. Scalping

Each planting spot shall be free of live vegetation, including roots, to reduce competition from existing vegetation. Mineral soil shall be exposed over the scalped area.