L15PS00193_Salem_Stand_Exam_B-M.pdf

STAND EXAM, CASCADE & MARY’S PEAK RESOURCE AREAS, OREGON SOLICITATION NO. L15PS00193 BLM SALEM DISTRICT OFFICE Page 3 of 82

SECTION B – SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

This is for an Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Firm Fixed Price Commercial Service Contract for Stand Exam Plots in Salem, Oregon. The IDIQ contract contains a one-year Base plus two (2) additional one-year options.

The maximum value of this contract is $400,000.00, including options.

The minimum guarantee quantity is $5,000.00 that satisfies the minimum guaranteed quantity to be ordered on this contract, including options. The minimum guarantee may be satisfied by one task order or the cumulative value of multiple task orders.

BASE

Item no. Item Description Quantity Unit of

Measure Unit Price Total 1 Cascade Resource Area 1 PLOT1 $ $ 2 Mary’s Peak Resource Area 1 PLOT1 $ $ TOTAL - Base $

OPTION 1

Item no. Item Description Quantity Unit of Measure Unit Price Total

1 Cascade Resource Area 1 PLOT1 $ $ 2 Mary’s Peak Resource Area 1 PLOT1 $ $ TOTAL – Option 1 $

OPTION 2

Item no. Item Description Quantity Unit of Measure Unit Price Total

1 Cascade Resource Area 1 PLOT1 $ $ 2 Mary’s Peak Resource Area 1 PLOT1 $ $ TOTAL – Option 2 $

GRAND TOTAL – Base plus Options $

1 Each plot consists of three plot types: one variable plot, one fixed plot, and four transects. See 5.1.2.

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Will be based on a production rate of 6 survey plots per work day. See Deliveries or Performance section.

(End of Section B)

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SECTION C – STATEMENT OF WORK

1.0 GENERAL

1.1 Scope of Work

The purpose of this project is to conduct Stand Exams on forest survey units within the Salem District.

The objectives are to determine vegetation description in terms of stand structure and composition, density, basal area, stand volume, understory trees and vegetation and other site characteristics. Data shall be collected in the field using electronic data recorders known as hand-held personal computers (HHPC’s). The BLM EcoSurvey Field User Guide is the primary reference for collecting field data for this survey. A hard copy will be issued at the Pre-work meeting. It is also available on line at http://www.blm.gov/or/districts/salem/slm-publications.php.

1.2 Location and size of Project - The areas to be surveyed under this contract are located within two Resource

Areas of the Salem District (Cascades and Marys Peak). Attachment 6, Salem District ProjectVicinity Map, shows the lands administered by the two Resource Areas. Project Area Maps (Attachment 3) and Project Information Sheets (Attachment 5) will be issued with each Task Order. A sample of a Project map with project information is included in Attachment 3. The base year estimated quantities for the two Resource Areas are: (1) Cascades Resource Area – 150 plots, (2) Mary’s Peak Resource Area – 50 plots.

Stands to be surveyed can range in size from 3 to 640 acres and shall require 3 to 64 plots (BLM Ecosurvey Field User Guide page B-1) .

1.3 Access

Access will be over BLM, county and private logging road systems with a variety of road surfaces including: paved, gravel, or natural/dirt. Some project areas may require a walk in of up to 2 miles. If the project area is more than 2 miles walk in, additional pay shall be negotiated between the Contractor and the Government.

The project areas may be behind locked gates which will require BLM keys, private keys, or both. Access will be discussed at the pre-work conference. If gates are locked with BLM locks, keys shall be issued to the Contractor by the COR/PI at the appropriate BLM office. If gates are privately owned and have no BLM lock, the Contractor will be responsible for securing access, including acquiring keys from the land owner to unlock the gates to access project areas. All gates with locks shall be locked immediately after entry or exit by the Contractor.

When gate keys are provided by BLM the Contractor will be required to fill out a Key Issue Record form (Attachment 4) and provide credit card information on the form. This form will be kept at the front desk of the Salem District Office and will be used in case the key is not returned in usable condition. Once the gate key(s) is returned to the Government, the form will be disposed of by the Government. The Contractor will be assessed a $50 fee for individual route keys and $500 for master keys via credit card for each key not returned or returned in an unusable condition.

1.4 Notification of Cessation or Restart of Work

The Contractor will notify the COR whenever operations cease for three (3) or more days, and will notify the COR before starting operations after a shutdown of three (3) or more days.

1.5 Boundary of Project Areas - The unit boundaries are identified on Project Area Maps (Attachment 4).

2.0 DEFINITIONS

• Age Tree - A live tree assigned with the tree flag “A” that requires total breast height age, 5-year, and 10-http://www.blm.gov/or/districts/salem/slm-publications.php

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• Basal Area Factor (BAF) - A factor used in variable-radius plots which makes it possible to convert stem count per plot to basal area per acre.

• Bole - The main stem or trunk of a tree.

• Borderline Tree - A tree which is difficult to judge as being "in" or "out" of the variable-radius plot because it is located at a distance from plot center which is nearly equal to the plot radius for a tree of its diameter.

• Breast Height (BH) – A measured point, which is 54 inches above ground level on the uphill side of the tree.

• Canopy Layer - A relative height grouping classification based upon one third incremental differences.

• Commercial Species – big leaf maple (ACMA), red alder (ALRU) and all coniferous species with the exception of pacific yew.

• Count Tree – A tally tree with no tree flag assigned by the Handheld Personal Computer (HHPC).

• Cover Percent -Visual percent cover by a given species. (The live crown or foliage width projected vertically to the ground.)

• Crown Class - A description of the relative position of the tree crown with respect to surrounding competing trees.

• Crown Ratio - The amount of live crown in relation to total tree height. Also referred to as percent live crown.

• Cut Tree – A tree removed from a stand to be commercially thinned determined by spacing, vigor and crown conditions.

• Dead Tree – A tree no longer alive or growing. A tree devoid of viable meristematic tissue, live foliage, live branches or live buds. A tree with one or more live branches would be classified as a live tree.

• Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) – The diameter in inches of the tree bole outside the bark measured at a point 54 inches above ground level. The measurement will be taken from the uphill side of the tree.

• Down Woody Material (DWM) – Dead and down pieces of conifer wood (minimum piece size 8 feet in length and 5 inches in diameter at the point of intersection of the piece). Includes dead tree boles, limbs, and other pieces that have been severed from their original source of growth or uprooted. DWM includes fallen or uprooted tree boles leaning at an angle greater than 45 degrees from vertical and any stems or branches attached to them which meet the minimum dimensions. DWM does not include: standing trees leaning less than 45 degrees, stumps, shrubs, dead foliage, unattached bark, or other non-woody pieces that are not an integral part of a bole or limb, roots, or any portion of the main bole below the root collar.

• Fallen Tree – A tree no longer primarily supported by the strength of its own roots and leaning at an angle greater than 45 degrees from vertical.

• Fixed-Radius Plot - A circular plot with a given radius measured horizontally from the plot center.

• HDCP – Handheld Data Collection Program. Data file format of downloaded handheld data.

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• HHPC – Handheld Personal Computer. A handheld personal computer used to collect, store and down load stand exam data.

• Height Tree – A tally tree assigned with tree flag “H”.

• "In" Tree – A tree whose DBH is large enough to subtend the fixed critical angle of a Relaskop, or other acceptable measuring device as measured from plot center on a variable-radius plot. Additionally, a tree having 50 percent or more of its bole (measured at ground level) within a fixed-radius plot boundary. Trees meeting this criterion will compose the set of tally trees for each plot.

• Leave Tree - A tree that would be left in a stand to be commercially thinned determined by spacing, vigor, and crown conditions.

• Limiting Distance - A calculated distance used to determine whether a borderline tree is truly "in" or "out" of the variable-radius plot.

• Measure Tree – A tally tree with a Height, Age, or Site Tree flag requiring measurement and classification data in addition to that required by a Count Tree.

• Merchantable DBH – The minimum diameter at breast height for trees measured on the variable plot. This may vary by Task Order and will be specified on the configuration setting.

• Non Forest Site – A definable site or area within a Survey Unit or stand 1/5 acre or larger in size not capable of maintaining at least 10 percent stocking of forest trees and those sites which have been converted to non forest uses. Examples are rock outcrops, roads, rock pits, utility corridors, etc.

• Old Growth Tree – Large remnant tree 200 years old or older with thick, often “flakey”, deeply furrowed bark. Lower branch diameters tend to be greater than six inches in diameter and DBH is typically greater than 48 inches.

• "Out" Tree - A tree not meeting the requirements for an "in" tree.

• Ratio Sampling – A variable plot sample system whereby a percentage of the tally trees are selected for specific measurements. (Example: 50% of the trees are selected as Count Trees, 50% selected as Height trees and 20% of the Height trees are selected as Age trees.)

• Reference Point (RP) – A point on the ground that is properly flagged according to 5.1.4 and accurately plotted on the map.

• Salvageable – A salvageable dead tally tree is a tree that has at least one 16 foot log, of which one-third must be sound wood.

• Sapling – A commercial coniferous species tree within the fixed 11.8 foot plot radius that is 4.5 feet tall or taller with a DBH less than the minimum merchantable DBH.

• Standing Tree – A tree rooted in the ground primarily supported by its roots and leaning at an angle of 45 degrees or less measured from vertical.

• Strata – Survey setup criteria for a reporting Survey Unit. Ratio sampling uses only one Stratum setup per reporting Survey Unit. MicroStorms (MS) Survey Units may be split or divided to capture more specific data in portions of the unit and may be given different strata identification tags within the same stratum.

• Survey Unit – That portion of a Project Area shown on the Project Area maps as a “Survey Unit”. Each

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Survey Unit is assigned an individual MicroStorms ID number, a unique OI key number and a specific set of numbered plots. A Survey Unit generally encompasses only one area, but may include two or more areas that are spatially separated. Survey Units may contain more than one stratum.

• Tally Tree - Those trees determined to be “in” trees within the variable-radius plot or fixed-radius plot which are then recorded as required by recording procedures.

• Type (Stand) - A unit area having trees of similar characteristics (age/species/composition/density) from which the collected data will be analyzed as a single stand.

• Tree Flags - Attributes assigned to an individual tally tree using the variable-radius plot Ratio Sampling method that indicate the type of measurement data required or collected for the individual tree. Tree flags are randomly assigned to the trees by the handheld data collection program, but can be over ridden or changed by the examiner if required. Trees may have more than one tree flag assigned. (Example: HA, HrA, S, Out, fA, etc.)

• Variable Plot Sampling - A sampling method where each tree has its own plot size dependent on the diameter of the tree and a determined fixed critical angle. This angle or basal area factor (BAF) is applied to each tree at breast height within a 360 degree clockwise sweep beginning at North from plot center.

Trees which have a diameter larger than the critical angle projected by the gauge are selected as Tally trees.

3.0 CONTRACTOR-FURNISHED ITEMS

3.1 The Contractor shall furnish all necessary labor, equipment, transportation, supervision, materials, and incidentals, necessary to complete the work as described.

3.2 Crew Requirements

The Contractor shall maintain an adequate work force at all times to ensure timely completion of the work.

The Contractor is responsible for the crew(s) knowing and performing the requirements of the contract.

The Contractor must attend a prework meeting and present a written performance plan, including crew size and scheduling.

3.3 Crew Supervisor

3.3.1 A qualified supervisor shall be on-site directing work at all times. Failure to maintain a supervisor, who demonstrates the minimum skills and ability as shown below, will result in suspension of work until an acceptable on-the-ground supervisor is provided. A maximum of ten (10) days will be allowed to produce a qualified supervisor.

3.3.2 The supervisor shall be required to have skills in the following areas:

a. Accurate identification of all commercial species found on the Salem District.

b. Ability to accurately determine crown class, and live crown ratio of trees.

c. Ability to accurately determine age and growth rates from increment borer cores.

d. Accurate identification of conifer, hardwood, shrub, and herb species commonly found on the Salem District.

e. Accurate identification of disease and damage agents, and their associated severities, common to conifers on the Salem District.

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f. Ability to accurately determine timber volume defects, and their associated volume losses, common to the Salem District.

g. Ability to read and draw maps, to interpret aerial photographs, and to locate points on the ground by compass and string-box or equivalent.

h. Ability to accurately perform common forest mensuration practices and techniques. Be proficient in taking diameter measurements, height measurements, use of increment borers and use of a Relaskop or equivalent.

i. Have basic competency in the use of handheld field data collecting computers and personal computers including loading programs, data management, communications interface, and file transfer.

j. Ability to use a geographic positioning system (GPS) to collect plot location coordinates.

3.4 Equipment and Supplies

The Contractor shall provide all equipment and supplies required to accomplish the specific tasks outlined in Section 5.0. Measuring and recording equipment shall be at least as accurate as the equipment listed below and will be approved by the COR prior to starting work.

a. American Scale Spiegel Relaskop, electronic dendrometer or other acceptable measuring devices for measuring basal area, height and slope.

b. String-box (hip chain), range finder or other COR approved methods for measuring distances between plot centers and distances from reference points.

c. Instruments for measuring diameters to the nearest tenth of an inch.

d. 18-inch increment borer.

e. 50-foot or longer measuring tape or Logger’s Tape.

f. Hand compass, set to a local declination as specified at http://maps.ngdc.noaa.gov/viewers/historical_declination/

g. Clipboards or notebooks.

h. Wire flags for marking plot centers, minimum 12-inch length.

i. White tree marking spray paint for marking tally trees.

j. Fluorescent blue flagging for marking reference points, plots, plot lines, and road crossings.

k. Fluorescent pink flagging for marking the end of DWM transects.

l. Fluorescent orange flagging which has been preprinted with the words “STAND EXAM” to be used for marking reference points and plot centers. (Available from Terra Tech, Product ID: GFS1341. Other vendors may have an equivalent product.)

m. Pencils and permanent ink markers.

n. Instrument for measuring growth increment to the nearest twentieth of an inch.

o. Geographic positioning system (GPS) equipment capable of recording plot location coordinates.

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p. Personal Computer with Microsoft Windows operating system that has the capability of loading BLM Ecosurvey Light software, the appropriate communication software compatible with the the Contractor’s HHPC and EcoSurvey Light, and ability to send data files via email or record files on electronic media.

q. Hand Held Personal Computer (HHPC) with the following minimum system requirements:

Memory: 32 MB RAM Storage: 64 MB disk storage Operating System: Microsoft Windows CE 3.0 or newer. This does not include

Windows Mobile operation system1.

Communications: Serial 9-pin DTR port & connectors or USB port & connections

(docking station for Allegro) Display: Black and white or color monitor

The currently supported Handheld Personal Computers (HHPC) that meet the above listed requirements and are known to operate the software are:

• Juniper Systems

• Allegro Field PC – either CE/DOS or CE2

• Allegro CX

• Allegro MX

• Trimble (Formerly TDS)

• Ranger 200c

• Ranger X series with Windows CE

r. If contractor is using Windows vista or Windows 7, the Windows Media Device Center plug in will be needed to transfer configuration set data to the hand held. The software can be downloaded from the following link: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/931937

3.5 The Contractor shall obtain written authorization from the COR prior to camping on BLM administered lands.

GOVERNMENT-FURNISHED PROPERTY

Government-furnished property noted below shall be returned to the Government in good condition, as determined by the Government, within 5 days after completion of the contract. The Contractor shall protect such property from damage of any nature, other than that caused by normal use and wear. The Contractor shall sign a property transfer form (DI-105). The Contractor will be liable for Government-furnished property lost or damaged at the current repair or replacement costs. Final payment will be withheld until all Government-furnished property is returned.

The Government will provide the following items to the Contractor:

a. Maps and laminated copies of aerial photos of the project areas.

b. Keys to unlock BLM gates (to be returned).

c. List of appropriate understory vegetation species with their codes (if provided as a book, to be returned)

1 Note: The EcoSurvey software has not been upgraded to operate on HHPC’s using the Mobile Operating System.

2 Any CE/DOS machine is slow and any Field PC with 32 MB of RAM and 64 MB of hard disk space requires ongoing memory management.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/931937

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d. BLM EcoSurvey Lite software program for installation on the contractor’s personal computer. The installation CD and user guide will be provided at the prework conference.

e. Electronic and hardcopy files of the configuration setup (consisting of lookup tables, configuration set, default unit and stratum) for the software.

f. BLM EcoSurvey Field User Guide (if provided as hardcopy book to be returned).

Right to Share - The Contractor shall not use for purposes other than the performance of this contract, nor shall the contractor release, reproduce, distribute or publish any data first produced in the performance of this contract, nor authorize others to do so, without written permission of the Contracting Officer (CO).

5.0 SPECIFIC TASKS – ALL ITEMS

5.1 Stand Exam Instructions

5.1.1 Plot and Grid Layout Procedures:

a. The number of plots for each unit has been predetermined and is listed on each Task Order issued Project Area Map. The Contractor shall perform all necessary measurements on each plot in accordance with the BLM EcoSurvey Field User Guide.

b. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to determine the distances between traverse lines and plots for each unit to be surveyed.

c. Plots shall be located on a grid system and distributed in a manner that covers the entire unit. The grid size for determining the distance between plots shall be varied between units as needed to systematically locate the specified number of plots. The distance between plots and plot lines (grid interval) shall be consistent throughout the unit examined unless alterations are pre-approved by the COR. The direction of the plot lines shall be expressed in azimuths.

d. Plot lines shall be located approximately one-half the established grid interval from the unit boundary. For example, if the grid interval is 300 feet, the first plot line shall be 150 feet from and run parallel to the unit boundary. The initial plot line shall run parallel with the longest side of the unit.

f. The Contractor shall mark the route to and between plots, in the field, with blue flagging to facilitate relocation of plots during inspection. Interplot flagging shall be visible from point to point.

5.1.2 Plot Types

Stand examinations shall be accomplished by using three (3) types of plots. All three plot types will be used at each plot location to gather data.

(1) A variable-radius plot will be used to collect individual tree data for trees equal to or greater than the minimum merchantable DBH.

(2) A fixed-radius plot with an 11.8 foot radius will be used to collect sapling and under-story vegetation data.

(3)Four (4) transect segments radiating from plot center, 90 degrees apart, and 50 feet in length, shall be used to collect down woody material (DWM) data.

5.1.2.1 Variable-radius plot - The Contractor shall select a BAF that results in an overall combined average of at least 6 trees per plot for all plots within each Survey Unit. (This is not a target on a per plot basis, but a required overall average for all plots combined). Only one BAF can be used for each individual Survey Unit. Before selecting a BAF the contractor shall preview the Survey Unit to determine the appropriate factor to use.

At the discretion of the COR and as determined at the pre-work meeting, the following plot types can be installed:

(1) One Half (1/2) and One Quarter (1/4) Variable Plots - In the event a full 360 degree plot cannot be taken, BLM SALEM DISTRICT OFFICE Page 11 of 82

(such as along the edge or corners of units) then a 1/2 (180 degree) or 1/4 (90 degree) plot shall be taken.

The justification for using a 1/2 or 1/4 plot, along with the starting and ending azimuths of the plot boundaries shall be documented in the Plot Narrative.

(2) Note: One half and one quarter plots only apply to merchantable size trees on the variable plot and DWM transects. The plot center shall be moved away from the edge the distance of the understory fixed plot radius to allow for a full understory fixed plot.

5.1.2.2 Fixed-radius plot

A fixed-radius plot with an 11.8 foot radius measured horizontally from the variable-radius plot center shall be used for recording saplings and vegetation. The fixed plot will be measured in a 360 degree sweep starting clockwise from north. All saplings having 50 percent or more of their bole (measured at ground level) within the fixed-radius plot are considered in the plot.

Fixed Plot Measurements are recorded on the Regen screen on the HHPC which may be accessed from any Plot Screen from the “Regen” button block at the bottom of the Plot Screens. (Highlight Plots block and space bar or screen touch.)

Saplings and poles are tallied that are greater than 4 ½ feet in height and 1 inch in diameter up through 6.5 inches DBH.

If no saplings are located on the fixed plot return to 2/6 Plot No Stocking Screen and enter a check mark in the box preceding “SubMerch/Regen Not Stocked” field.

Required Data for Saplings – From the Regen drop down menu select “4 Saplings (>=4.5 ft and 1”dbh)” by pressing the number on the key board. The following data is required:

1. Species identification

2. DBH measurement - Record to the nearest 1/10th inch.

3. Height measurement (Ht) - Record total height to the nearest foot.

4. Crown Ratio (% CR) - Record live crown ratio to nearest 10 percent.

5. Breast Height Age (Age) - Record the estimated BHA to the nearest year for the first sapling tallied on the plot within a Canopy Layer. Only one sapling per plot needs to be recorded.

Generally most saplings will be in Canopy Layer 2 or 3.

6. Canopy Layer (Lyr) – Record the Canopy Layer for all saplings.

Note: One half and one quarter plots are not allowed on understory fixed plots. The plot center for a ½ or1/4 variable plot shall be moved into the stand to allow a full fixed plot radius.

5.1.2.3 DWM Transects

(1) The four (4) Down Woody Material (DWM) transects shall run from the center of the variable-radius plot to a point 50 feet horizontal distance from plot center. The end of each transect shall be identified with pink flagging.

The flagging shall be labeled with the letters “DWM”, the azimuth of transect, and the transect number (1-4) in permanent ink. The HHPC will randomly generate the direction/azimuth of the first 50 foot transect. The remaining three transects will be taken at 90 degree angles from the azimuth of the first transect in a clockwise direction.

(Example: The HHPC assigns transect No.1 an azimuth of 20 degrees, then the remaining transects No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4 shall have azimuths of 110, 200, and 290 degrees respectively.) Transects shall be within five (5) degrees of the predetermined azimuth

(2) If the variable plot is less than a full 360 degree plot then only transects that are within starting and ending azimuths of the plot boundaries of the variable plot shall be measured. (Example: If the 1/2 plot option is required and only transect No. 2 and No. 3 fall within the variable plot, then only transect No. 2 and 3 shall be measured).

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5.1.3 Plot Numbers and Locations.

The quantity of plots have been predetermined and are shown on the task order maps or Project Information Sheet (Attachment 5) for individual task orders. The Contractor shall enter the initial line azimuth, line spacing, and plot spacing on the map. In addition the plot locations shall be illustrated by number, including the azimuth and distance on each task order map. Plot numbers shall be numbered consecutively on the map. Plot centers in the field shall be located within 75 feet of the location shown on the task order maps and shall be within the Survey Unit. If a variable plot falls completely or partially; 1) within a road prism, 2) outside of a stand boundary, or 3) within sixty

(60) feet of a body of water as evidenced by standing or flowing surface water, then the contractor shall offset fifty

(50) feet in any cardinal direction which avoids the condition. The offset location shall be shown on the task order map and noted in the narrative. The contractor shall return to the original grid for the next plot.

If required by the COR to use ½ or ¼ plots and a variable plot falls completely or partially; 1) within a road prism, or 2) outside of a stand boundary, then the plot shall be moved into the stand 11.8 feet from the nearest edge of the road or stand boundary in order to allow measurement of a complete fixed plot. The appropriate number of 50 foot DWM transects shall be taken from this offset plot center as stated in 5.1.2.3.2.

Plot centers that fall within old non-drivable dirt spurs and skid trails that have trees growing on them that contribute to the basal area of the stand shall not be moved and full plots shall be taken.

A GPS point shall be taken at each plot center and be electronically submitted with the unit data. The Contractor shall record up to 5 alpha/numeric characters that describe the Model of the Earth used in GIS applications. For our region this will be North American Datum 1983 (NAD83). The Contractor shall also record the Universal Tranverse Mercator (UTM) zone that applies to the location of the survey unit, the elevation, UTM northing and easting. GPS data shall be recorded on screen 4/6.

5.1.4 Reference Point (RP)

a. The Contractor shall identify the starting RP for each Survey Unit. RP(s) shall be easily identifiable on the task order map. (Example: existing road, road junctions, survey corner, property line, etc.) In all cases, the RP location(s) will be documented on the task order map.

b. The RP shall be designated on the ground with one strip of fluorescent orange “STAND EXAM” flagging and one strip of blue flagging (double flagging). The date (day/month/year), examiner(s) initials, Survey Unit number, and the distance and azimuth to the first plot shall be written on the RP flagging with permanent ink. For multiple Survey Units using the same RP, the above information will be listed on separate flags. The distance and azimuth to the plot(s) referenced by the RP(s) shall be documented in the Survey Unit Narrative (i.e., RP to Plot #12 = 200 ft. at 180° azimuth).

c. Whenever a plot line crosses a drivable road, an additional RP shall be hung with unit number, examiners initials, azimuth, and the number of next plot written on the flagging with permanent ink.

5.1.5 Survey Unit Narrative - For each survey unit, the contractor shall complete a brief unit narrative if any unique features or significant conditions are observed throughout the Survey Unit. Screen 7/9 (Unit Notes) on the HHPC shall be used to record this narrative. (Examples: extensive animal damage, mistletoe, root rot pockets, snow damage, windthrow areas, etc.) The contractor shall also mark these features and/or conditions on the task order map and/or the aerial photo. RP information shall be recorded on this screen as part of the narrative.

5.1.6 Plot Narrative - For each plot, the Contractor shall report any unusual features or conditions located within the plot on the appropriate plot data screen. (Examples: large outcrops, large rock slides, domestic water intakes, cultural resources, caves, hazmat sites, windthrow, root rot, etc.) Screen 6/6 (Plot Comments) on the HHPC shall be used to record this narrative. The distance and azimuth from plot center to any off plot Site Trees shall be recorded on this screen as part of the Plot Narrative.

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5.1.7 Identification of Tally trees

a. All tally trees within the variable-radius plot shall be identified by large legible numbers marked on the tree with white paint, at eye level, on the side of the tree facing plot center. Trees shall be numbered starting at an azimuth of 360 degrees (due North) and proceeding in a clockwise direction around the plot center. Trees shall be numbered in order. When two (2) or more trees are in the same azimuth line, the tree closest to plot center shall be given the smaller number. If the Site Tree is selected off the plot it shall be recorded and numbered as the last tree on the plot.

Tally trees with forks below DBH are recorded as two (2) trees.

5.1.8 Plot Establishment and Orientation

a. The Contractor shall mark the route to and between plots with fluorescent blue flagging to facilitate relocation for inspection. Flags shall be inter-visible.

b. Plot centers shall be marked with a wire flag noting the plot number and driven securely into the ground. Double fluorescent flagging (one blue and one orange) shall be hung overhead as near as possible to the plot center and shall have “STAND EXAM” printed on the orange flagging along with the plot number, examiner's initials, and date. All writing shall be with permanent ink.

c. The ends of the Course Woody Debris transects shall be identified with pink flagging.

5.1.9 Project Area Map and Narrative

a. The plot grid will be shown on the Project Area Map and will include plot locations, plot numbers, and the direction of travel between plots. The Project Area Map will also show other required data such as: reference point (RP), survey date, initial azimuth, line spacing and plot spacing.

b. All stream channels that intersect the plot line shall be recorded on the project area map.

c. On the project area map, record any significant or unique features observed on the plots, between plots, or adjacent to plots. Types of features to be recorded, but not limited to, are: wetlands, windthrow areas, poor stocking, laminated root rot (Phellinus weirii). For example, between plots 26 and 27, there is a ¼-acre pocket of Phellinus weirii root rot.

5.2 Plot Guidelines

5.2.1 Site Tree Selection

a. One species shall be selected for site index measurements at the Survey Unit level. If Douglas-fir is common on the site, it is usually the preferred site tree species.

b. The Site Tree shall be selected from the largest, tallest and best quality trees which are typical of trees growing in the stand. It can either be a dominant or co-dominant tree of the most abundant species in the stand or Survey Unit.

The appropriate Site Tree Table shall be selected on screen 3/9 of the Unit pages in the HHPC. One Site Tree shall be chosen per plot and assigned tree flag “S”.

c. Site trees shall be selected that meet the following criteria:

1) The tree has a normally formed bole and crown and has a central bole exhibiting physiological traits and development typical for that tree species, age and local environment.

2) A site tree may have minor damage that does not affect height growth but cannot have any visible defect, evidence of suppression, or symptoms of interior rot or disease.

A tree must not be an open-grown, remnant, or pre-dominant tree from a previous stand, or a tree joined at the base to another tree. If there are no suitable Site Trees on the plot, one shall be selected from outside the plot as close to

BLM SALEM DISTRICT OFFICE Page 14 of 82 the plot as possible and assigned a tree flag “out”. Off-plot site trees shall be numbered as the last tally tree on the plot. In addition, all off-plot Site Trees shall be rejected for height and age if assigned by the data collection program by assigning the appropriate rH and rA tree flags. The azimuth and distance from plot center to any Site Trees selected off the plot shall be recorded in the Plot Narrative (6/6 Plot Comments screen) on the HHPC. Each Site Tree shall be numbered and painted with the letter “S” facing plot center.

e. The default site index curve is King, for Douglas-fir. If a species other than Douglas-fir is selected as the site index species, or if the Douglas-fir stand average BHA is greater than 130 years, or if the elevation is greater than 3,000 feet, the surveyor must go to the Unit Screen (3/9) and change the “Site Tree Table” to reflect the site index table selected. Refer to instruction below to determine the appropriate site index table.

1. (Default) For Douglas-fir, below 3,000 feet elevation, with breast height age (BHA) between 30 and 130 years, not in SW Oregon: use King, James, E. Site Index Curves for Douglas-fir in the Pacific Northwest.

Weyerhaeuser Forestry Paper, No. 8 July 1966. Select site trees from trees within the category of trees that have the largest 20 percent DBH measurements on the plot.

2. For Douglas-fir at elevations above 3,000 feet: use Curtis, Robert O., Francis R. Herman, Donald J.

DeMars. Height Growth and Site Index for Douglas-fir in High-Elevation Forests of the Oregon-Washington Cascades. Forest Science, Vol 20, No 4, pp. 307-315. Select site trees that are the tallest dominant trees on the plot

3. For older Douglas-fir (over 130 years or where the BHA is older than appropriate site curve at your location for younger stands) or unmanaged stands, at elevations less than 3,000 feet: use McArdle, Richard, Walter H.

Meyer, and Donald Bruce. The Yield of Douglas Fir in the Pacific Northwest. Technical bulletin No. 201.

Revised October 1949, Slightly revised May 1961. Select site trees that are dominant and co-dominant trees.

4. For noble fir unmanaged stands, mainly old growth: use Herman, Francis R., Curtis, Robert O., DeMars, Donald J. Height Growth and Site Index Measurements for Noble Fir in High-Elevation Forests of the Oregon- Washington Cascades. USDA Forest Service Research Paper PNW-243 1978 . Select site trees from the tallest dominant trees.

5. For sitka spruce & western hemlock within the coastal fog belt (may also be applied to forests on inland areas): use Meyer, Walter H. Yield of Even-Aged Stands of Sitka Spruce and Western Hemlock. Pacific Northwest Forest Experiment Station Forest Service Technical Bulletin No. 544 March, 1937. Select site trees from the dominant and co-dominant trees.

6. In areas where 40% or more of total basal area is western hemlock (only where suitable Douglas-fir site trees are NOT available): use Barnes, George H. Yield of Even-Aged Stands of Western Hemlock. USDA Forest Service Technical Bulletin No. 1273. September 1982. Primarily used within the coastal fog belt; may be applied to other Coast Range areas and west slopes of the Cascades Range. Select site trees from the dominant and co-dominant trees where breast height age is 20 years or more.

7. Where red alder is the dominant species: use Harrington, Constance A., and Robert O. Curtis. Height Growth and Site Index Curves for Red Alder. USDA FS Pacific Northwest Research Station, Research Paper PNW-358, April 1986. . Select site trees from the dominant and co-dominant trees.

5.2.2 Age and Growth measurement procedures for tally trees within a variable-radius plot.

a. All selected Site Trees assigned tree flag “S” and all Age Trees assigned tree flag “A” or “fA” will be measured for BH age, 5-year and 10-year radial growth.

b. If the tree assigned with tree flag “A” cannot be bored for age and growth (i.e. dead, rotten core, etc.)

then the tree shall be rejected for age “rA” and the next sequential tree on the plot of the same species that is alive and not already flagged as an Age Tree shall be selected as a replacement Age Tree. The replacement Age Tree shall be assigned tree flag “fA” and measured for breast height age, and 5-year and

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10-year radial growth. If no suitable replacement trees are available on the plot, then the first available tree on the next plot shall be selected as a replacement. If this is the last plot to be measured on the Survey Unit, then no replacement Age tree will be required. Reasons for rejecting an age tree shall be recorded in the plot narrative.

c. There must be at least one age tree for each canopy layer within the stand. If at least one tree within the stand in a given canopy layer does not receive an assigned tree flag, then the user must reject a tree “rA” and force an age “fA” to meet this requirement. This only applies to the total stand. There does not need to be an age for each canopy layer within a plot.

d. Measure radial growth from an increment core bored at DBH and at a right angle to the bole. Beginning at the outer edge (the edge nearest to the bark) of the first complete dark ring (end of previous year’s growth), count to the 5th and 10th ring (see Figure 1). Using a ruler graduated in 1/20-inch increments, measure and record the distance from end of last year’s growth to outer edge (end of fall growth) of the 5th and 10th rings in twentieths of an inch (example: record 1.2 inches as “24”). The core shall be placed back into the core hole with a sufficient amount exposed to allow the Project Inspector to retrieve it for increment verification (approximately 1 inch).

e. When measuring 5- and 10-year radial growth, do not include the bark, phloem (inner bark), current year’s spring growth (the lighter-colored portion of the annual growth ring), or the current year’s late summer or fall growth (the darker-colored portion of the annual growth ring) if applicable (when there is an incomplete annual growth ring). (See Figure 1.)

Figure 1: Measuring Radial Growth

f. All selected Site Trees assigned tree flag “S” and all Age Trees assigned tree flag “A” or “fA” will be measured for breast height age. Measure breast height age from an increment core bored at DBH and at a right angle to the bole. Bore the tree such that the increment passes through and beyond the center of the tree. Beginning at the outer edge of the first dark ring (end of last year’s fall growth), count the number of dark rings from the outer end of the wood core to the center of the tree and record the total breast height age. Do not include the phloem (inner bark) or the current year’s spring growth. The increment wood core shall be placed partially back into the core hole so that it can be retrieved by the Project Inspector and a circle will be painted around the core hole.

g. To determine the age of a tree that has a radius greater than the length of the increment borer refer to Figure 2 and following example.

Center of tree

Phloem (inner bark)

Bark

End of previous year’s growth

10-year radial growth

Spring growth (lighter in color)

Fall or late summer growth (darker in color)

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Example: A tree of 58.6 inches DBH has a bark thickness of 2.0 inches. A 14.0-inch increment core has 110 total rings with 10 rings on the inner-most two inches of the core. To determine the breast height age: (1) Calculate the radius of the tree at DBH (58.6" ÷ 2 = 29.3"). (2) Subtract the bark thickness to get the wood radius at DBH (29.3" - 2.0" = 27.3”). (3) Determine the remaining distance to the center of the tree (27.3” - 14.0" = 13.3”). (4) Calculate the average rings per inch using the inner-most 2 inches of the core (10 rings ÷ 2" = 5 rings per inch). (5) Extrapolate the average rings per inch for the missing portion of the core and round to the nearest whole inch (5 rings per inch X 13.3" = 66.5 rings, round to 67). (6) Add the actual ring count to the extrapolated ring count to determine the total breast height age (110 + 67 = 177 years breast height age).

Figure 2: Determining the Age of a Large Tree

5.2.3 Age measurement procedures for tally trees within a fixed-radius plot. (Saplings) - Measure or estimate the BH age of the first sapling tallied on the fixed 11.8 ft. plot within each Layer. (Generally all saplings will be in the same layer, but may extend into an upper layer in younger or uneven aged stands.) Saplings equal to or greater than 3 inches DBH shall be bored and measured for age following the same procedures required for tally trees within the variable-radius plot as outlined above. For saplings less than 3 inches DBH the BH age shall be estimated. To estimate the age, begin at DBH and count the branch whorls to the top leader of the sapling. Each whorl shall represent one (1) year’s growth. For species that have branch whorls not indicative of seasonal growth, estimate each year’s growth by counting the incremental diameter decreases in the stem from DBH to the top of the leader. Each incremental diameter decrease will represent one year’s growth.

5.2.4 Borderline Tree Procedures - Occasional "borderline" trees occur (it is unclear whether they are in or out of the plot). These trees shall be determined to be “in” or “out” using the following procedure: (1) Calculate the limiting horizontal distance by multiplying the DBH of the borderline tree by the appropriate plot radius factor for the BAF being used on the plot. (2) If the measured horizontal distance from plot center to the center of the tree or to the face of the tree at DBH is less than the calculated limiting distance, the tree shall be determined to be “in” the plot and shall be tallied. The HHPC contains a Borderline Tree Calculation program that calculates the limiting horizontal distance and reports whether the tree is “in” or “out.” Contractors are encouraged to mark borderline trees with an “X” painted on them facing the plot center.

5.2.5 Diameter Breast Height (DBH) Measurement - Measure DBH perpendicular to the bole of the tree at a

BLM SALEM DISTRICT OFFICE Page 17 of 82 point 54 inches above the ground on the uphill side of the tree. If a whorl of branches or other abnormality prevents measurement at 54 inches above ground level, then the DBH shall be measured above the abnormality as close to 54 inches as possible. Record DBH in tenths of an inch.

5.2.6 Fallen Trees - When a fallen tree occurs on the variable-radius plot, the trees “in” or “out” status is determined from where the tree lays. Original position of the tree is disregarded. Measure the distance to the DBH as it lies to determine if it is within the limiting distance.

5.2.7 Forked Trees - A tree forked at or above DBH shall be tallied as one tree, and the required measurements shall be taken on the tallest bole of the fork. A tree forked below DBH shall be tallied as two (or more) individual trees with required measurements taken on each fork of the tree meeting minimum DBH

5.2.8 Size Limits for Variable-Radius plot Tally Trees - Tally Live trees equal to or greater than the minimum merchantable DBH. Tally dead standing trees ten (10) inches DBH or larger and ten (10) feet tall or taller. Tally dead fallen trees that are equal to or greater than the minimum merchantable DBH and Decay Class 1 or 2 and salvageable.

5.2.9 Size Limits for Fixed-Radius plot Tally Trees On fixed-radius plots, tally only live commercial conifer species that are 54 inches in height or taller and less than the minimum merchantable DBH.

5.2.10 Height Measurement for Standing Dead Trees (Snags)

All dead trees equal to or greater than 10 inches DBH and 10 feet in height shall be measured for tree height regardless of tree flag.

For standing dead trees that are Decay Class 1 or 2, two height measurements are required, total height and height to break. Total height is measured by incorporating all portions of the tree bole including broken off tops or missing tops. If the top or portion of the bole is missing or has been removed, estimate the length using comparable adjacent trees and include this length in the total height measurement. The appropriate % Deduct and Damage Code will then be applied to the missing portion of the tree. For trees with a broken top, a second height measurement, height to break, is required. Height to break is measured from the ground to the highest measurable point of the standing bole.

For Standing Dead trees that are Decay Classes 3, 4, or 5, only one height measurement is required. The height shall be measured from the ground to the highest measurable point of the standing bole. The top or portions of the tree no longer attached to the bole shall not be used to calculate the total height of the standing dead trees and shall not be included in variable plot measurement data.

5.2.11 Height Measurement for Standing Broken Top Live Height Trees (flagged with an “H”) - Standing Live Height Trees that have a broken top require two height measurements, total height and height to break. Total height is measured by incorporating all portions of the tree bole including broken off tops or missing tops. If the top or portion of the bole is missing or has been removed, estimate the length using comparable adjacent trees and include this length in the total height measurement. The appropriate % Deduct and Damage Code shall be applied to the missing portion of the tree. For trees with a broken top, a second height measurement, height to break, is required. Height to break is measured from the ground to the highest measurable point of the standing bole. (Note: Standing Live Count Trees do not require height measurements).

5.2.12 Length Measurement for Fallen Dead Height Trees (flagged with an “H”) - The length of Fallen Dead Height trees are recorded as height measurements. (Length and height are synonymous for Fallen Dead Height trees). Length measurements for Fallen Dead Height trees that are Decay Class 1 or 2 with salvageable volume shall incorporate all portions of the tree bole, including broken or missing tops. If a portion of the bole is missing or has been removed, estimate the length using comparable adjacent trees and include this length in the total height measurement. The appropriate % Deduct and Damage Code shall be applied to the missing portion of the tree.

Height to break is not applicable. (Note: Fallen Dead trees that are Decay Class 3, 4 or 5 are not tallied and Fallen Dead Count Trees do not require length/height measurement).

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5.2.13 Required Data and Tree Flags for Tally Trees

Data shall be collected for each Tally Tree indicated by the assigned Tree Flag and Tree Type as shown below and outlined in Table 1.

Count Tree – A tally tree with no assigned tree flag (blank tree flag field) requires:

• Species identification

• Classification as a Cut/Leave (Specific instructions for selection of cut/leave will be given at the pre-work conference) - Standing/Fallen - Dead/Live tree

• DBH measurement.

• Canopy layer

If the Count Tree is classified as a Standing Dead tree it also requires:

• Will be assigned the tree flags “fH” by the examiner.

• Height measurement (For Decay Class 1 or 2 record total height and height to highest measurable point of the standing bole. – For Decay Class 3, 4, or 5 record height to highest measurable point of the standing bole).

• % Deduct estimation

• Decay Classification

• Damage Code (if evident)

Height Tree – A tally tree assigned with tree flag “H” requires:

• Species identification

• Classification as a Cut/Leave - Standing/Fallen - Dead/Live tree

• Total height / length measurement

• DBH measurement

• % Deduct estimation

• Damage Code (for any affecting volume, growth, or survival.)

• Severity Code ( if damage code is recorded)

• Crown Classification

• Crown Ratio measurement

• Canopy Layer assignment

If the Height Tree is dead it will not require Crown Classification, Crown Ratio measurement, or Canopy Layer assignment but will require:

• Decay Classification

• Damage Code (if evident)

• Height/length measured according to rules for decay class stated above

Age Tree – A live tree assigned with the tree flag “A” requires…