P2024102_IFB_FINAL_(003)_01_28_2025.pdf

State of California -The Natural Resources Agency GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE CHARLTON H. BONHAM, Director Northern Region 601 Locust Street Redding, CA 96001 www.wildlife.ca.gov

(Rev. 7/18/2024) Conserving California’s Wildlife Since 1870 Page 1

February 3, 2025

INVITATION FOR BID

Mouth of Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Area – Balls Ferry Wetland Unit 1 and 2, Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal

Permit P2024102

Legal Basis of Authority Pursuant to Fish and Game Code Sections 1010 and 1745.1(a), the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), serving as an agent of the State of California (STATE), offers this Invitation for Bid (IFB) for a Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal (Grazing). The proposed vegetation disposal activity will be conducted with non-exclusive rights on approximately 275 acres of real property known as the Balls Ferry Wetland Unit 1 (BFWU1) and the Balls Ferry Wetland Unit 2 (BFWU2), referred to as the Premises, on the Mouth of Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Area (MCCWA), in Shasta County.

This is one allotment on the MCCWA that the CDFW is requesting bids for Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal. IFBs can be obtained at caleprocure.ca.gov or by contacting the administrative contact named below. Please refer to IFB number: P2024102.

Bids must be received no later than February 21, 2025, at 3:00 PM.

In the opinion of the CDFW, this IFB is complete and without need of explanation.

However, if you have questions, or should you need clarifying information, you may submit your inquiry in writing to the following administrative contact person. You may also ask questions at the site inspection.

CDFW Administrative Contact: CDFW Site Manager:

Name: Lesley Wyrick Name: Tony Welch Title: Staff Services Analyst Title: Wildlife Habitat Supervisor I Address: 601 Locust Street, Redding, CA 96001 Address: PO Box 199

Paynes Creek, CA 96075 Phone: (530) 806-1395 Phone: (530) 597-2201 Email: Lesley.Wyrick@wildlife.ca.gov Email: Tony.Welch@wildlife.ca.gov

Site Inspection Location 4425 Balls Ferry Road Anderson, CA 96007

California Department of Fish and Wildlife Invitation for Bid – P2024102

It is mandatory that you inspect the site before submitting a proposal. The site inspection(s) will be held on February 13, 2025, at 09:00 AM.

NOTE: No verbal information given will be binding upon the STATE or the CDFW unless such information is issued in writing as an official addendum.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION PAGE

A. Permit Term and Fee

B. Bidder Minimum Qualifications

C. Bid Requirements and Information

1. Key Action Dates

2. Mandatory Site Inspection

3. Questions and Answers

4. Submission of Bid

5. Evaluation and Selection

6. Basis of Award

7. Disposition of Bid

8. Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal Award

9. Protest

10. Sample Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal

11. Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Requirement ………………..……13

12. Exhibit A: Map ............................................................................................... i

13. Exhibit A–1: Legal Description of Site .......................................................... iv

14. Exhibit B: Site Operation Plan ......................................................................xii

D. Required Attachments .................................................................................... xviii

Attachment 1 – Required Attachment Check List .......................................... xviii Attachment 2 – Bid/Bidder Certification Sheet .................................................xix Attachment 3 – Authorization Document .........................................................xxi Attachment 4 – Bid Form ................................................................................ xxii Attachment 5 – Site Inspection Certification ................................................... xxiii Attachment 6 – Statement of Qualifications .................................................. xxiv Attachment 7 – Bidder References ................................................................xxv

A. Permit Term and Fee

If awarded, the term of this Permit shall be five years, commencing April 15, 2025, or upon approval of the STATE, whichever is later (Commencement Date), and terminating on April 14, 2030; with such rights of termination as are set forth in the Permit. The STATE shall have the right to delay the Commencement Date if the STATE determines that the condition of the Premises warrants such a delay.

The annual grazing period will be twelve months each year during the Permit term, starting April 15 and ending April 14 the next year. Three and a half months each year during the Permit term, starting April 15 and ending July 1 for BFWU1 (Yellow Star Thistle Control Area), six and a half months each year during the Permit term, starting April 15 and ending October 31 for BFWU1 and BFWU2 (Irrigated Pasture) and twelve months each year during the Permit term starting April 15 and ending April 14 the next year for BFWU1 and BFWU2 (10 Acres of Blackberry) for the goats or sheep.

Unit Method(s) Annual Grazing Period BFWU1 (Yellow Star Thistle Control Area)

Cattle Only April 15 – July 1 in each year

BFWU1 and BFWU2 (Irrigated Pasture)

Haying and Grazing April 15 – October 31 each year

BFWU1 and BFWU2 (10 Acres of Blackberry)

Goats or Sheep April 15 – April 14 the next year, each year

The annual permit fee will be a flat fee bid amount per year for each year of the Permit Term.

The Permit fee shall be due and payable in lawful United States funds, without demand, offset or deduction, as shown in the Payment Schedule below. If the Commencement Date is delayed, then the STATE may adjust the Permit fee for the first year of the term as provided in the Permit.

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

No. PAYMENT DUE AMOUNT PERIOD COVERED 1 April 1, 2025, or

Upon Permit Execution, Whichever is Later

Total Annual Permit Fee

April 15, 2025 – April 14, 2026

2 April 1, 2026 Total Annual Permit Fee

April 15, 2026 – April 14, 2027

3 April 1, 2027 Total Annual Permit Fee

April 15, 2027 – April 14, 2028

4 April 1, 2028 Total Annual Permit Fee

April 15, 2028 – April 14, 2029

5 April 1, 2029 Total Annual Permit Fee

April 15, 2029 – April 14, 2030

No credit against the fee or any other sums payable under the Permit shall be provided to Permittee for any contributions (including, without limitation, work done or materials or supplies furnished) by Permittee.

B. Bidder Minimum Qualifications

Statement of Qualifications:

The bidder must demonstrate a working knowledge and experience of running a grazing operation. The bidder must submit a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) that includes the bidder’s knowledge and experiences in at least one past grazing permit/lease agreement. The SOQ must:

1. Describe at least one grazing permit/lease agreement in the past three years where the bidder used a combination of grazing and haying, preferably on public land.

2. Detail the resources the bidder has available which are sufficient to meet the management goals (cattle, equipment, goats, etc.)

3. Describe the proximity of the bidder or qualified staff that will be available to respond to emergency calls.

4. Describe the approach for meeting the management goals, including demonstrating knowledge of Yellow Star Thistle (YST), blackberry and other invasive species management, and how grazing and haying will be used in combination to meet the goals. The approach must incorporate the following parameters:

YST Control grazing area: The bidder is required to graze cattle, approximately 300 Animal Units (AUs) to control YST.

Irrigated pasture: The bidder must use a combination of grazing and haying to meet management goals.

10 acres of blackberry, cattail, and other invasive species removal is year-round with goats and/or sheep only. No cattle or haying.

SOQs will be reviewed by CDFW staff on a pass-fail basis. All proposals that pass will be considered qualified potential Permittees. The award, if made, will be made to the bidder proposing the highest total fee, calculated as a combined sum of the total annual fees bid for years one, two, three, four, and five.

C. Bid Requirements and Information

1. Key Action Dates

EVENT DATE

IFB Available to Bidders February 3, 2025 – February 19, 2025 Mandatory Site Inspection February 13, 2025, at 9:00 AM

Bid Submission Deadline February 21, 2025, at 3:00 PM Bid Opening February 24, 2025, at 10:00 AM Notice of Intent to Award February 26, 2025 Proposed Award Date March 3, 2025 Proposed Commencement Date April 15, 2025

2. Mandatory Site Inspection

a. A mandatory site inspection is scheduled at 9:00 AM on February 13, 2025, at 4425 Balls Ferry Road, Anderson, CA 96007 for the purpose of discussing questions regarding this IFB and touring the site. No verbal information given will be binding upon the STATE or the CDFW unless such information is issued in writing as an official addendum. The site inspection questions and original-or-corrected answers will be compiled and posted either separately, or in combination with the questions and answers addressed in Section 3 below.

b. In the event a bidder is unable to attend the mandatory pre-bid site inspection, an authorized representative may attend for the bidder. The representative may only sign-in for one bidder. No bid will be accepted unless the bidder or bidder’s authorized representative was in attendance.

c. For bidders who need assistance due to a disability, reasonable accommodations will be provided by the CDFW upon request for the mandatory site inspection. The bidder must contact Lesley Wyrick at

(530) 806-1395 or at Lesley.Wyrick@wildlife.ca.gov no later than the fifth working day prior to the scheduled date and time of the site inspection to arrange for a reasonable accommodation.

3. Questions and Answers

Bidders requiring clarification of the intent or content of this IFB or on procedural matters regarding the competitive bid process may request clarification by submitting questions, in an email or envelope clearly marked "Questions Relating to IFB Permit P2024102” to the CDFW administrative contact person listed on page one. To ensure a response, questions must be received by the CDFW no less than seven business days prior to the bid submission deadline. At the sole discretion of the CDFW, questions may be paraphrased by the CDFW for clarity.

Written responses to all questions will be collectively compiled and posted on the caleprocure.ca.gov website no later than five days prior to the submission deadline. It is the responsibility of the bidder to check for the list of questions and answers associated with this IFB.

4. Submission of Bid

a. All bids must be submitted under sealed cover and received by the CDFW at the location indicated below on or before the date and time identified above in Section C, Bid Requirements and Information, Item

(1) Key Action Dates. The sealed cover must be plainly marked with the IFB number and title, must show the complete bidder name and address, and must be marked with "DO NOT OPEN", as shown in the following example:

Mouth of Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Area – Balls Ferry Wetland Unit 1 and 2, Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal.

Permit Number P2024102 California Department of Fish and Wildlife Bidder Name Address City, State Zip

DO NOT OPEN

Bids not submitted under sealed cover will be rejected and returned unopened to the bidder.

Any bid received at the above address after the bid submission date and time specified in Section C (1), Key Action Dates will NOT be considered. It is the CDFW's policy to make every effort to ensure that all bids have been received and properly time stamped; however, bidders are ultimately responsible for ensuring timely receipt of their bid.

Bidders may verify receipt of their bid by contacting the administrative contact identified in the cover letter of this IFB prior to the public bid opening.

A minimum of one original and two copies of the bid must be submitted.

b. Bidders assume the risk of the method of dispatch chosen. The CDFW assumes no responsibility for delays caused by any delivery service.

Postmarking by the due date shall not substitute for actual bid receipt by the CDFW. The time of delivery will be determined by the clock in the CDFW’s office. Late bids will not be accepted, and no additional time will be granted to any bidder. Bids may not be delivered orally, by facsimile transmission, or by other telecommunication or electronic means.

c. All bids shall include the documents identified in Section D, Required

Attachment Checklist (Attachment 1). Bids not including the proper required attachments shall be deemed non-responsive. A non-responsive bid is one that does not meet the basic bid requirements.

d. All documents requiring a signature must bear an original signature of a person authorized to bind the bidder.

e. Mail or deliver bids to the following address:

Mouth of Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Area Balls Ferry Wetland 1 and 2, Permit for Excessive Vegetation Disposal Permit P2024102 California Department of Fish and Wildlife Attn: Lesley Wyrick 601 Locust Street

f. A bid may be rejected if it is conditional or incomplete, or if it contains any alterations made to the form, or other irregularities of any kind. The CDFW may reject any or all bids and may waive an immaterial deviation in a bid. The CDFW's waiver of an immaterial deviation shall in no way modify this IFB or excuse the bidder from full compliance with all requirements if awarded the Permit.

g. Costs incurred by the bidder for developing bids, participation in mandatory site inspection, and any other costs incurred in connection with this IFB, and in anticipation of a Permit award are entirely the responsibility of the bidder and shall not be charged to the STATE or to the CDFW.

h. An individual who is authorized to bind the bidder shall sign the

Bid/Bidder Certification Sheet, (Attachment 2). If the bidder is a corporation, partnership or other legal entity, the signature should indicate the title or position that the individual holds in the entity. Any unsigned bid will be rejected.

i. A bidder may modify a bid after its submission only by withdrawing the original bid and resubmitting a new bid prior to the bid submission deadline. Bidder modifications offered in any other manner, oral or written, will not be considered.

j. A bidder may withdraw a bid by submitting a written withdrawal request to the CDFW, signed by the bidder or an authorized agent. A bidder may thereafter submit a new bid prior to the bid submission deadline. Bids may not be withdrawn without cause after the bid submission deadline.

k. The CDFW may modify this IFB prior to the time fixed for submission of bids by posting an addendum to the caleprocure.ca.gov website, and notifying all parties who received a bid package.

l. The CDFW reserves the right to reject all bids. The CDFW is not required to award a Permit.

m. Before submitting a response to this solicitation, bidders should review the response, correct all errors and confirm compliance with the IFB requirements.

n. Bidder is required only upon the date and time specified for the site inspection identified in this IFB to inspect the Premises and investigate the conditions, character, and quality of the site. The Premises will be made available in AS-IS condition. The CDFW makes no representations, warranties, or guarantees, express or implied, regarding the Premises, including its fitness or suitability for bidder’s purposes; the condition or quality of soils; organic certification of any pasture; existence, adequacy, or condition of fencing; or availability of water, feed, forage or electric power, none of which are guaranteed. No changes to the Permit amount will be made due to a lack of careful examination of site.

o. Questions regarding this IFB must be presented in writing to the administrative contact no later than seven business days before the bid submission deadline.

p. The Permit will be an agreement between the CDFW and only one

Permittee, which must be an individual or a legal entity, such as a corporation or legal partnership (Limited Partnership, General Partnership, Joint Venture). Any bidders interested in submitting co-bids with other parties must be formed into a legal partnership prior to the submission of a bid. A notarized copy of the partnership agreement signed by all partners must be provided as the Authorization Attachment.

Bids submitted by any informal association of persons or entities will be rejected.

q. The provisions of the CDFW’s Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal are not negotiable.

r. No oral understanding or agreement shall be binding on either party.

s. By submitting a bid, the bidder acknowledges that they have read and understand this IFB and are in agreement to the provisions of the sample Permit included as part of this IFB package.

t. If any provision of this IFB is declared by a court to be illegal or in conflict with any law, the validity of the remaining terms and provisions shall not be affected; and the rights and obligations of the CDFW and the bidder shall be construed and enforced as if this IFB did not contain the particular provision held to be invalid.

5. Evaluation and Selection

a. The bid opening will occur at 601 Locust Steet, Redding CA 96001 on the day and time specified in Section C-1 Key Action Dates “Bid Opening”

b. At the time of the bid opening, each bid will be checked for the presence or absence of required information in conformance with the submission requirements of this IFB.

c. The CDFW will attempt to contact each reference by phone. References will be asked to describe the prior grazing agreement transaction they had with the bidder, and to answer the following question(s):

1. Did the firm/individual satisfactorily complete the obligations within the terms of the agreement? (Yes or No)

2. Add additional questions if applicable.

If any reference provided by the bidder answers “No” to any of the question(s), the bid will be disqualified on the grounds that the bidder did not meet the minimum qualifications, and the bid is therefore non-responsive.

d. The CDFW will evaluate each bid to determine its responsiveness to the published requirements.

e. Bids that contain false or misleading statements, or which provide references that do not support an attribute or condition claimed by the bidder, may be rejected.

f. The CDFW reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to request clarifications of bids or to conduct discussions for the purpose of clarification with any or all bidders. The purpose of any such discussions shall be to ensure full understanding of the bid. If clarifications are made as a result of such discussion, the bidder shall put such clarifications in writing. Bidders may not submit supplemental information without the approval of the CDFW.

6. Basis of Award

The Permit award, if made, will be to the responsive, responsible bidder offering the highest total bid price as completed on the Bid Form (Attachment 4).

Bid responses must comply with all IFB requirements. Failure to do so will disqualify the bid. If it is determined not to be in the best interest of the STATE, the CDFW reserves the right to not award a Permit in response to this IFB.

In the event of a tie for the responsive/responsible highest bid, the names of the tied bidders will be placed in a container suitable for a blind drawing. The bidder whose name is drawn first will become the proposed awardee. The remaining bidder names will be noted in the order they are drawn for use in offering the award, should the proposed awardee be disqualified or resign prior to execution of the Permit.

7. Disposition of Bid

a. Upon bid opening, all documents submitted in response to this IFB will become the property of the STATE.

b. Upon the completion of the bid opening and any relevant submission verifications, indicated by a notice of intent to award the Permit, the bids and associated materials shall be open for review by the public to the extent allowed by the California Public Records Act (Government Code sections 6250-6270 and 6275-6276.48). By submitting a bid, the bidder acknowledges and accepts that the contents of the bid and associated documents shall become open to public inspection. The guidelines for making CDFW-related Public Records Act requests are available on the CDFW/Fish and Game Commission Guidelines for Public Records Act Requests internet page, here: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/General- Counsel/Public-Records-Requests

8. Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal Award

a. Following the award, the CDFW will request insurance documentation from the awardee that will comply with Section 21 of the Agreement.

Insurance documents must be provided on or before the requested date.

STATE execution of the Permit is contingent upon the verification of the insurance by the Department of General Services– Office of Risk and Insurance Management. (The awardee should provide the Sample Permit and the Land Use Agreements: Guide to Insurance Documentation Requirements to their insurance broker when requesting the coverage and required documents.)

b. The proposed awardee will be required to provide a completed Payee Data Record form (STD 204) with the documents described above.

c. Time is of the essence for the commencement of this Permit. The CDFW reserves the right to rescind the award if any requested documentation is not provided by the awardee on or before the requested due date. The awardee is solely responsible for ensuring timely responses by any individual or firm they choose to create and provide the requested documents.

d. The CDFW reserves the right to offer the award to the next responsive, highest bidder or to issue a new IFB if the award is rescinded.

e. Upon receipt, the awardee will sign the original copy of the Permit for

Excess Vegetation Disposal, provided by CDFW electronically within ten business days after receipt from the CDFW.

f. The Permittee is not authorized to commence activities (including any pre-season preparation work) prior to receiving a fully signed and executed Permit and remitting payment of the first Permit fee installment as described in the Permit.

9. Protest

a. In Accordance with Public Contract Code Section 10345, if any bidder, prior to the award of an agreement, files a written protest with the Department of General Services (DGS) – Office of Legal Services and CDFW on the grounds that the (protesting) bidder is the lowest responsive responsible bidder, the agreement will not be awarded until either the protest has been withdrawn or the DGS has decided the matter. The protest must be sent to:

Department of General Services Office of Legal Services

California Department of Fish and Wildlife

Attn: Bid Protest Coordinator

Attn: State Owned Properties Management Unit

Address: 707 3rd Street, 7th Floor, Suite 7-330 West Sacramento, CA 95605

Address: P.O. Box 944209 Sacramento, CA 94244-

Email: OLSProtests@dgs.ca.

gov

Email: BMBstateownedproperti es@wildlife.ca.gov

Within five days after filing the initial protest, the protesting bidder must file with the DGS and the CDFW a detailed written statement specifying the grounds for the protest. Protests may be submitted by regular mail, courier, or personal delivery.

10. Sample Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal

This IFB includes, as a separate document, a Sample Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal (Sample DFW 587) for review. The sample DFW 587 contains language that the CDFW expects to utilize for this Permit. Following award of the Permit the CDFW will prepare a Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal including exhibits for execution. By submitting a bid, the successful bidder agrees to sign and return the DFW 587 within ten business days of receipt.

11. Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Requirements

The State of California seeks to realize the potential benefits of GenAI, through the development and deployment of GenAI tools, while balancing the risks of these new technologies.

Bidder/Offeror/Contractor must notify the State in writing if their solution or service includes, or makes available, any GenAI, including GenAI from third parties or subcontractors.

The State has developed a GenAI Reporting and Factsheet (STD 1000) to be completed by the Bidder/Offeror/Contractor.

Failure to submit the GenAI Reporting and Factsheet (STD 1000) will result in disqualification of the Bidder/Offeror/Contractor.

Failure to report GenAI to the State may void any resulting contract. The State reserves its right to seek any and all relief it may be entitled to as a result of such non-disclosure.

Upon receipt of a Bidder/Offeror/Contractor GenAI Reporting and Factsheet (STD 1000), the State reserves the right to incorporate GenAI Special Provisions into the final contract or reject bids/offers that present an unacceptable level of risk to the State.

i

12. Exhibit A: Map ii

Exhibit A: Map (Cont’d) iii

Exhibit A: Map (Cont'd) iv

13. Exhibit A-1: Legal Description of Site

This Excess Vegetation Disposal Permit is for the Balls Ferry Wetlands Unit 1 and 2.

The Balls Ferry Wetlands Unit 1 consists of parcels 089-010-001, 089-010- 003, 089-060-001, 089-080-001, 089-070-009, 089-090-008

The Balls Ferry Wetlands Unit 2 consists of parcels 091-230-010, 091-190- 004, 09-020-001

Legal Descriptions are on the following pages.

v

Exhibit A-1: Legal Description of Site (Cont’d) vi vii viii ix x xi xii

14. Exhibit B: Site Operation Plan

Site Description:

The Mouth of Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Area (MCCWA) consists of approximately 1,100 acres of primarily riparian habitat, with cottonwood, Oregon ash, and willow dominating the overstory, but also encompasses annual grasslands, oak woodlands, and freshwater wetlands. Native understory species to southern Shasta County near the town of Cottonwood include California rose, blackberry, box elder, and native grasses. It is an excellent habitat for the Swainson's hawk, bald eagle, ringtail, river otter, and beaver. Many species of songbirds, waterfowl and mammals may also be viewed. The Permit Premises consists of Balls Ferry Wetland Unit 1 (BFWU1) and Balls Ferry Wetland Unit 2 (BFWU2; see Exhibit A: Map), within the MCCWA. The Premises is closed to the public. The Premises consists of 275 acres total, with approximately 130 acres of yellow star thistle (Centaurea solstitialis; YST) grazing in BFWU1 and 145 acres of irrigated pastures between both BFWU1 and BFWU2.

The Mouth of Cottonwood Creek Final Land Management Plan (2011) has specific management goals outlined. Management goal 3.1 states: “Maintain a livestock grazing regime for invasive plant control, fuel management, and promote native plant restoration.” BFWU1 vegetation management goals are the targeted grazing of YST to allow for the improvement of species diversity.

At both BFWU1 and BFWU2, the goal is to maintain irrigated pastures for migratory waterfowl and to reduce blackberries and other invasive species.

All bids will be based on a total acreage (275) basis to accomplish all three management goals. All fencing is accepted in “as is” condition and it will be the responsibility of the Permittee to maintain and repair any broken fencing.

Any animals that wander from the Premises will need to be dealt with within 24 hours of notification.

Grazing Prescriptions and Habitat Objectives:

Cattle grazing will be allowed on the specified paddocks and pastures for YST control and irrigated pasture. Goats and sheep grazing will be allowed in BFWU1 and BFWU2 (pastures 1-4) to control Himalayan blackberry.

Water availability for livestock on the Premises is not guaranteed and it will be the Permittee’s responsibility to supply. All infrastructure should be placed in coordination with California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) staff to avoid impacts to sensitive habitats.

The CDFW expects that the Permittee do the following: manages an even distribution of cattle, grazing scheme, protection of wetlands, and improvement of habitat, will be honored during this Permit term.

xiii

Yellow Star Thistle Prescriptive Grazing Area:

One of the main focuses of this Permit is reducing the biomass of YST.

Prescriptive grazing on the Premises will be used to graze the plants to less than 6” stubble height which will reduce the amount of flowers and seeds produced, ultimately reducing the density and plant recruitment. The incorporation of old decadent vegetation into the soil will improve mineral cycling and water infiltration on the upland.

There are approximately 130 acres of upland habitat located on the BFWU1 (see Exhibit A: Map) with extensive encroachment of YST. Generally, the grazing timing will be from April 15 through July 1 each year during the Permit term. Turn in/out dates may vary slightly as field conditions warrant as determined by the CDFW. Cattle must be removed when management goals are obtained. Water availability for livestock is not guaranteed and will be Permittee’s responsibility to supply. Accomplishment of the goals will be determined by annual vegetation density monitoring conducted by the CDFW.

There is a perimeter fence with one small fence to create two paddocks within the BFWU1. The Permittee will be allowed to move the cattle throughout the Premises as they see fit to meet the habitat goals. The fencing will be the responsibility of the Permittee to repair and maintain. Any broken fences or straying of cattle off the Premises will be the responsibility of the Permittee to respond and repair within 24 hours of being notified. There is no other grazing related infrastructure on the Premises. No electricity is available.

All access points have a locked gate which the Permittee will be able to use during the term of this Permit.

Irrigated Pasture Area:

Vegetation needs to be removed to provide quality short grass habitat for Canada geese, White-fronted geese, other waterfowl, shorebirds and raptors on approximately 145 acres of irrigated pastures (pastures 1-4). Cattle will be the primary animals used to control the vegetation on these sites.

Approximately 15 acres are located on the BFWU1 (pasture 4) and approximately 130 acres are located on the BFWU2 (pasture 1-3) (see Exhibit A: Map). Fencing is on the boundaries of most of the pastures within the Premises, but there are unfenced portions in pastures 3 and 4, which are bordered by ponds and impassable wetlands. If animals need further containment on the Premises, it will be the responsibility of the Permittee to create a boundary for their livestock. Vegetation removal may begin April 15 through October 31 each year during the Permit term, if conditions warrant as determined by the CDFW. A single cutting of hay followed by grazing may be used in coordination to achieve management goals. Any haying operation will be required to buffer all wetland areas by 25 yards and have prior approval xiv from the CDFW. All grazing shall cease October 31 each year during the Permit term at which time the stubble height of the vegetation shall be between 2-5”. The pastures within the Premises may be divided into separate paddocks by electric fencing at the Permittee’s expense if needed to obtain the management goals. Any electric fence installed must be removed by the October 31 deadline. Water availability for livestock is not guaranteed on the Premises and is the Permittee’s responsibility to supply. The achievement of the target vegetation goal of 2-5” stubble height at the end of each grazing period during the Term of the Permit will be determined by vegetation monitoring conducted by the CDFW.

The irrigated pasture areas located on BFWU1 and BFWU2 (pastures 1-4) will be properly and appropriately irrigated by maintaining green pastures with minimal dry areas and on assigned irrigation days from Anderson Cottonwood Irrigation District (ACID) ditch tender by the Permittee. This is at the permittee’s cost and expense, including, but not limited to, payment of the ACID fees applicable to the term of this Permit. No provision of this Permit shall be construed as requiring the CDFW to furnish or guarantee to the Permittee any amount of water, it being expressly understood that the CDFW makes no representations or warranties of any kind whatsoever as to the adequacy of any present or future source of water on the Premises or servicing the BFWU1 or BFW2. Irrigation by the Permittee shall be in accordance with the ACID water schedule.

The irrigation fees to the ACID in 2024 were as follows:

Application fee: $135.00 Benefited acres: $87.00 per acre.

Estimated cost is $12,750.00

The Permittee will be responsible to pay the application fee and 145 benefited acres for each year during the Permit term. The Permittee will need to communicate with ACID for their payment due dates each year.

ACID is responsible for the electricity to pump irrigation water. The Permittee is responsible to check the pump for proper lubrication and notify ACID of any problems or need of lubricants. Fees are subject to ACID changes, and it will be the responsibility of the Permittee to confirm these costs.

There is a perimeter fence around some of the pastures within the Premises.

The Permittee will be allowed to move the cattle throughout the pastures as they see fit to meet the habitat goals. The fencing will be the responsibility of the Permittee to repair and maintain. Any broken fences or straying of cattle off the Premises will be the responsibility of the Permittee to respond and repair within 24 hours of being notified. There is no other grazing related infrastructure on the Premises. No electricity is available.

xv

All access points have a locked gate which the Permittee will be able to use during the term of this Permit.

Himalayan Blackberry Species Control:

There will be approximately 10 acres scattered throughout the irrigated pastures on both BFWU1 and BFWU2 (pastures 1-4) available for invasive species reduction in addition to the previously addressed YST acres. Within these 10 acres there are numerous less than one-acre patches of blackberries located throughout the pastures. The concept is to reduce the number of blackberry patches so more desirable species are able to establish. Goats and/or sheep grazing will be the preferred vegetation control method for these 10 acres with pastures 1–4 , but the Permittee may choose to use herbicide. Any areas where herbicide is planned to be used must be done in accordance with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, in coordination with CDFW staff, and completed by a certified applicator, and reported to all required agencies. A copy of all herbicide usage reporting documents (including CDFW 679, CDFW 680 and county use reporting) should be submitted to the CDFW. Areas for control will be designated by the CDFW. Goats/ sheep may be left on the BFWU1 and BFWU2 year-round for blackberry control. Electric fencing for targeted grazing/browsing must be installed and moved at the Permittee’s expense. The CDFW may request the removal of goats and sheep from all or part of the Premises if they are having a detrimental impact on non-target vegetation. Water availability on the Premises for livestock is not guaranteed and will be the Permittee’s responsibility to supply. The goal is to either browse blackberries to remove greater than 75% of green and growing vegetation repeatedly, ultimately reducing the patch size and ability to out compete other more desirable vegetation or kill blackberry patches through the use of herbicides.

Accomplishment of the goals will be determined by vegetation photo monitoring conducted by the CDFW.

There is a perimeter fence within some of the smaller pastures within the Premises. The Permittee will be allowed to move the animals throughout the Premises as they see fit to meet the habitat goals. The fencing will be the responsibility of the Permittee to repair and maintain. Any broken fences or straying of livestock off of the Premises or outside the electric fenced pastures will be the responsibility of the Permittee to respond and repair within 24 hours of being notified. There is no other grazing related infrastructure on the Premises. No electricity is available.

Monitoring:

Stubble height of the Premises will be continually monitored by the Permittee during the annual grazing period each year during the Permit term to assess the stocking rate. Following the annual grazing period each year during the Permit term, the CDFW will conduct monitoring on the Premises.

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The YST paddocks will be monitored by the CDFW following the annual grazing period each year during the Permit term to evaluate the effects on the

YST.

Irrigated pastures will be monitored by the CDFW following the annual grazing period each year during the Permit term to measure the stubble height of these areas.

Blackberry and invasive species monitoring will be conducted through photo points before and following the annual grazing period each year during the Permit term on both BFWU1 and BFWU2 (pastures 1-4).

Although Animal Unit Months (AUM) will not be set, the Permittee will be required to submit a detailed accounting of the number of animals, the kinds of animals (cow/calf pair, cow, yearling, bull, sheep, etc.), and the date in and date out used during the annual grazing season each year during the Permit term.

Incompatible Activities:

When operating the Permit at the Premises, the Permittee may witness incompatible activities to the Premises, such as target shooting, driving Off Road Vehicles (OHVs), etc. The Permittee will inform the CDFW Site Manager within 24 hours of noticing such activity.

Roads/OHV Use:

The Permittee may use OHV on existing trails and roads only, and with care to avoid damaging the roads. If damages are caused, the Permittee will repair the road to previous drivable conditions.

Livestock Health / Trespass:

The CDFW requires that the Permittee determines that their livestock is healthy prior to being introduced to the Premises and remains healthy while on the Premises. The CDFW expects that cattle trespass onto adjoining properties will be avoided and will be addressed swiftly (within 24 hours or less) should it occur. Cattle trespassing onto the Premises should also be addressed swiftly (within 24 hours or less). Cattle not belonging to the Permittee will need to be identified (potentially with help of brand inspector) and removed as quickly as possible.

Public Access:

The Premises does not allow for general public access, therefore the only access may be allowed by special permit.

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No special right to access to the MCCWA for the purposes of hunting, fishing, camping, or any other purpose other than as specified in this Permit is granted nor implied.

The Permittee may not take (as defined in FGC 86) wildlife (including rodent and predator control) unless prior written authorization is obtained from the CDFW.

The Permittee may not grant special access to the Premises to any persons not associated with the implementation or management of vegetation control activities under this Permit.

CDFW Contacts:

Tony Welch Wildlife Habitat Supervisor I Tony.Welch@wildlife.ca.gov

(530) 597-2201 P.O. Box 199 Paynes Creek, CA 96075

Mike Sandahl Senior Fish and Wildlife Habitat Supervisor Mike.Sandahl@wildlife.ca.gov

(530) 200-1952 1724 Ball Mountain Road Montague, CA 96064

Pat Sater Environmental Scientist Patrick.Sater@wildlife.ca.gov

(530) 510-3663 601 Locust Street xviii

D. Required Attachments

ATTACHMENT 1

REQUIRED ATTACHMENT CHECK LIST

A complete bid or bid package will include all of the items identified below.

Complete this checklist to confirm the items in your bid. Place a check mark or “X” next to each item that you are submitting to the STATE. For your bid to be responsive, all required attachments must be returned. This checklist should be returned with your bid package as well.

Attachment Number/Description

Attachment 1 Required Attachment Check List

Attachment 2 Bid/Bidder Certification Sheet

Attachment 3 Authorization Document

Attachment 4 Bid Form

Attachment 5 Site Inspection Certification

Attachment 6 Statement of Qualifications (if applicable)

Attachment 7 Bidder References (if applicable) xix

ATTACHMENT 2

BID/BIDDER CERTIFICATION SHEET

This Bid/Bidder Certification Sheet must be signed and returned along with all the required attachments as a bid package as directed in Section C-4, Submission of Bid, with original signatures. The bid documents must be transmitted in a sealed envelope in accordance with the IFB instructions.

A. The bid for this Invitation is submitted as detailed in Attachment 4, Bid Form.

B. All required attachments are included with this Certification Sheet.

C. The signature affixed hereon and dated certifies compliance with all the requirements of this Invitation for Bid. The signature below authorizes the verification of this certification.

An unsigned Bid/Bidder Certification Sheet may be cause for rejection of the bid.

1. Company/Individual Name 2. Telephone Number 2a. E-mail

3. Address

Indicate your organization type:

4. Sole Proprietorship 5. Partnership 6. Corporation 7. Other

8. California Corporation Number (if this is a Corporation):

9. Indicate applicable license and/or certification information:

10. Bidder’s Name (Print) 11. Title

12. Signature 13. Date xx

ATTACHMENT 2 (page 2)

BID/BIDDER CERTIFICATION SHEET INSTRUCTIONS

Complete the numbered items on the Bid/Bidder Certification Sheet by following the instructions below:

Item Instructions 1, 2, 2a, 3 Must be completed.

Check if your firm is a sole proprietorship. A sole proprietorship is a form of business in which one person owns all the assets of the business in contrast to a partnership and corporation. The sole proprietor is solely liable for all the debts of the business.

Check if your firm is a General Partnership, Joint Venture, or Limited Partnership. A Legal Partnership is a voluntary agreement between two or more competent persons to place their money, effects, labor, and skill, or some or all of them in lawful commerce or business, with the understanding that there shall be a proportional sharing of the profits and losses between them. An association of two or more persons to carry on, as co-owners, a business for profit.

Check if your firm is a corporation. A corporation is an artificial person or legal entity created by or under the authority of the laws of a state or nation, composed, in some rare instances, of a single person and his/her successors, being the incumbents of a particular office, but ordinarily consisting of an association of numerous individuals.

7 Check if boxes 4-6 do not apply and explain. No informal association of persons or entities is permitted.

Enter your corporation number assigned by the California Secretary of State’s Office. This information is used for checking if a corporation is in good standing and qualified to conduct business in California.

Complete, if applicable, by indicating the type of license and/or certification that your firm possesses and that is required for the type of services being procured.

10, 11, 12, 13

Must be completed.

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ATTACHMENT 3

AUTHORIZATION DOCUMENT

Check the appropriate box that identifies your business type and attach the documentation described to this page.

Sole Proprietor using legal name – No documentation is required.

Sole Proprietor using DBA – Attach the fictitious business statement on file with the county.

General Partnership or Joint Venture – If available, attach a copy of the partnership or joint venture agreement signed by all partners. If no written agreement exists, provide a document listing the names and signatures of each partner or venturer, consenting to the submission of this bid.

Limited Partnership – Attach a copy of the partnership agreement signed by all partners showing the signer(s) of the bid as general, managing, or principal partner(s).

Corporation, Incorporation, Limited Liability Corp – Attach a copy of the Articles of Incorporation and a notarized Resolution or other document of the governing board or other group signed by all members showing the signer of the bid has authority to legally bind the entity.

Other. Please explain and attach any relevant supporting documents.

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ATTACHMENT 4

BID FORM

Permit P2024102

Mouth of Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Area – Balls Ferry Wetland Unit 1 and 2

Bid Amount (Annual Flat Fee)

Maximum No. of

Acres per year

No. of Months in Annual Grazing

Period

Price Offered $________________ per year

Yellow Thistle 2.5 months

Irrigated Pasture 6.5 months

Blackberry Area 12 months

In submission of this Bid Form, I certify that I have read and understand all term and conditions of this IFB and Sample Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal.

Full Bidder Printed Name ________

Bidder Signature ________

Title of Signer ________

Phone Number ________

Date ________ xxiii

ATTACHMENT 5

SITE INSPECTION CERTIFICATION

The Site Inspection Certification must be presented to, and signed by, the site contact for the site inspection of Mouth of Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Area for the IFB number Permit P2024102. The signed form certifies participation and must be included in the bid package if submitted.

Participant Certification:

I, ________________________________________, have participated in the mandatory

Printed Name site inspection for the IFB mentioned above.

Signature Date

Site Contact Certification (CDFW Staff):

I, ______________________________________, confirm the participation of the above

Printed Name signed in the mandatory site inspection.

Signature Date xxiv

ATTACHMENT 6

STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS

Directions: Provide a maximum two-page document describing how the bidding individual or firm meets or exceeds each of the minimum qualifications described in this IFB.

Format Requirement:

Title the attachment “Attachment 6: Statement of Qualifications”. The bidding individual or firm name and page number should be placed in the upper right corner of each page.

Please use ¾” margins, 12-point Arial font, single-spaced type, and avoid non-standard abbreviations. The attachment will not exceed two single-sided 8.5” x 11” pages. Hand-written attachments are not prohibited, but must be legible or they will be rejected.

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ATTACHMENT 7

BIDDER REFERENCES

Submission of the Bidder References is mandatory. Failure to complete and return this attachment with your bid will cause your bid to be rejected and deemed nonresponsive.

List below one reference for grazing activities performed within the last five years, which are similar to the activities to be performed in this Permit.

References will be contacted to verify agreement obligations were met.

REFERENCE 1

Name of Firm:

Address:

City, State, Zip Code:

Contact Person: Phone:

Dates of Agreement: Value or Cost of

Agreement

Brief Description of Obligations Performed: