PWS KO Approved.pdf

United States Forest Service Pacific Southwest Research

Service at Tanbark Flat Tree Service Contract

Performance Work Statement (PWS) May 13, 2026

1.0 GENERAL:

This is a non-personal services contract to provide firm-fixed priced service contract for tree felling and removal services on a United States Forest Service (USFS) former research facility site. The Government will not exercise any supervision or control over the contract service providers performing the services herein.

1.1 Description of Services/Introduction: The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, supplies, portable facilities, transportation, tools, materials, supervision, necessary permits, and other items to perform the tree removal and trimming as defined herein. The contractor shall make all necessary arrangements for removal of the felled trees and other tree material as stated within this performance work statement to complete the work.

1.2 Background: The requested tree services are required for the Tanbark Administrative Site (Tanbark), which is located within San Dimas Experimental Forest (SDEF) – within the Angeles National Forest (ANF). The San Dimas Experimental Forest was established in 1933 and covers 6,945 hectares (about 32 square miles) within the ANF. The Tanbark Administrative Site is comprised of historic buildings dating back to 1935 including office/lab buildings, barracks and a mess hall built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. These buildings housed scientists and other personnel. An arborist report (Tanbark Flat Arborist Tree Inventory) was prepared in 2024, identified hazard trees, and is provided in the exhibits.

1.3 Objectives:

The objective of this performance work statement is to provide for the safe removal and trimming of hazard trees with the Tanbark Administrative site. Refer to Section 4.0 for tasks details.

1.4 Period of Performance: 116 Days from date of award

Contract:

• Provide required submittals (14 days for the above task)

• Fell 75 trees, grind slash and remove from site, deck boles at designated area. Leave stumps at 6 inch height.

• Trim 21 trees, grind slash and remove site.

• Trim 2 trees at end of unpaved road accessing research facility area.

(102 days for the above 3 tasks)

Refer to the attached tree survey document for cut and trim tree locations.

1.5 Project Schedule: Develop a schedule and submit it to the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) for approval. The schedule shall be submitted at the pre-work meeting or 14 calendar days from award of contract, whichever occurs first.

The work described herein will be completed in two phases.

• First Phase - Submittal period (14 calendar days maximum)

• Second Phase – In-field tree felling and trimming (102 days maximum)

1.6 Recognized Holidays:

New Year’s Day Labor Day Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday Columbus Day President’s Day Veteran’s Day Memorial Day Thanksgiving Day Juneteenth Christmas Day Independence Day

1.7 Hours of Operation:

The contractor is responsible for conducting business between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday through Friday except Federal holidays. Contact USACE COR and USFS POC, Name and phone numbers to be provided at time of award. for access to site post award. The Contractor must always maintain an adequate workforce for the uninterrupted performance of all tasks defined within this PWS.

1.8 Place of Performance: The Tanbark Administrative Site SDEF is located approximately 12 miles north from Glendora driving on Glendora Mountain Road to Glendora Ridge Road. Additional access is possible from San Antonio Heights approximately 16 miles via Mount Baldy Road to Glendora Ridge Road. Refer to Exhibits A and B for site location.

1.9 Special Qualifications: The Contractor is responsible for ensuring that a certified arborist is on site to direct and perform the assessments of the project work. The offeror shall provide proof of an accredited and valid crane operator certification for tree removal.

1.10 Type of Contract: This is a firm-fixed-price contract.

1.11 Post Award Conference: The Contractor shall attend any post award conference convened by the COR The Contracting Officer (KO) and/or Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) may meet with the Contractor to review the Contractor's performance. At these meeting(s) the COR will appraise the contractor of how the Government views the Contractor's performance and the Contractor will appraise the Government of problems, if any, being experienced. Appropriate action shall be taken to resolve outstanding issues. These meetings shall be at no additional cost to the Government.

1.12 Contracting Officer Representative (COR): The COR will be appointed by separate letter.

The COR monitors all technical aspects of the contract and assists in contract administration. The COR is authorized to perform the following functions: Ensure that the Contractor performs the technical requirements of the contract; perform inspections necessary in connection with contract performance; maintain written and oral communications with the Contractor concerning technical aspects of the contract; issue written interpretations of technical requirements, including Government drawings, designs, specifications; monitor Contractor's performance and notifies both the Contracting Officer and Contractor of any deficiencies; coordinate availability of government furnished property, and provide site entry of Contractor personnel. A letter of designation issued to the COR, a copy of which is sent to the Contractor, states the responsibilities and limitations of the COR, especially regarding changes in cost or price, estimates or changes in delivery dates. The COR is not authorized to change any of the terms and conditions of the resulting order.

1.13 Travel: Contractor Travel is non-reimbursable. The contractor’s quoted price for the contract is Firm Fixed Price (FFP) and shall cover all related expenses and markups for the work by Contract Line Item Number (CLIN).

1.14 Contract Discrepancy Process:

1.14.1 The issuance of a Contract Discrepancy Report (CDR) may be cause for scheduling a meeting among the Contractor and COR. A mutual effort will be made to resolve all problems identified. The contractor will prepare written minutes of the meeting. The Contractor and COR will sign minutes of the meeting(s).

1.14.2 State in writing to the COR, within ten calendar days, any areas and explanation of non-concurrence in the minutes. The COR will review and consider the reasons submitted for the Contractor’s non-concurrence and decide. The COR will notify the Contractor of the decision in writing within ten calendar days of receipt.

1.14.3. Actions:

1.14.3.1 The COR will verbally advise or give a written inspection report to the Contractor of discrepancies the first time they occur and ask the Contractor to correct the problem. A notation will be made on the COR checklist of the date and the time the deficiency was discovered and the date and time the Contractor was notified.

1.14.3.2 If the Government created any of the discrepancies, these will not be counted against the Contractor’s performance.

1.14.3.3 When the Contractor is not meeting the limits of satisfactory performance, a CDR will be issued to the Contractor. The seriousness of the failures should govern whether to issue a CDR at the end of the period, or as soon as the limits of satisfactory performance are exceeded.

1.14.3.4 If the Contractor does not achieve satisfactory performance by the end of the next period or agreed suspense date, another CDR will be issued.

1.14.3.5 A third CDR may be the cause for a Cure Notice to be issued. However, the KO may issue a Cure Notice at any time he/she deems appropriate. An unsatisfactory reply to the Cure Notice may result in a Show Cause letter to be issued or consideration of Termination of the Contract for Cause.

1.15 Key Personnel: The following personnel are considered key personnel by the government. If contractor wishes to substitute key personnel, the resume of the new personnel shall be provided to the COR who will request Contracting Officer’s approval. Qualifications for all minimally required key personnel are listed below:

1.15.1 Certified Arborist: The certified arborist will be responsible for the overall physical procedural related aspects of the tree service components within this contract. The individual must have the following qualifications:

o Certified Arborist o California D-49 Tree /service state contractor license o Seven years minimum experience

1.15.2 Crane/Feller Crane Operator: The offeror will provide proof of an accredited and valid crane operator certification for tree removal projects.

1.15.3 Field Staff: Field personnel, including those listed above, shall meet the training, medical surveillance, and safety and health program requirements specified in all appropriate OSHA standards. The Contractor shall ensure that all personnel involved in the performance of the work meet the above safety and health requirements and that adequate documentation is available for the COR’s review. If adequate documentation is not made available personnel shall not be allowed on-site. Employees shall also meet any USACE required training for the project. All field staff, both contractor and all tier subcontractor personnel, are responsible for understanding and complying with all requirements of the contractor's approved Site Safety and Health Plan.

1.15.4 Biological Monitor: The authorized biologist must possess, at a minimum, a bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, wildlife biology, herpetology, or related fields. The biologist must have a minimum of 3 years field experience using United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) techniques and experience with the wildlife species and native plants occurring in the area that are likely to be encountered on the site including any species mentioned within this PWS. Biological monitors for tree removal outside pupping season must have familiarity with bat ecology and habitat requirements. Biological monitors for tree removal during bat pupping season must have prior experience surveying and monitoring for bats and must be accepted by the USACE. The biologist must be experienced with raptors, migratory birds, and bats. The monitor will be on call during the term of the contract. The biologist must have a minimum of 3 years field experience using USFWS and CDFW techniques and experience with the wildlife species likely to be encountered on the site including any species mentioned within this PWS.

1.16 Archaeological Finds/Historic Preservation: Where the Contractor or any of the Contractor’s employees, prior to, or during the service work, are advised of or discover any possible archeological, historical and/or cultural resources, immediately stop work within 100 feet of the find and notify the COR verbally, and then with a written follow up notice . The COR will notify the KO, at which time a plan to provide a work around will be formulated and distributed. Archeological and historic work will be carried out by, or under the direct supervision of a person or persons meeting qualifications set forth in the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards (36 CFR Part 61). The Government will provide cultural sensitivity training to all work personnel prior to work activities, if deemed necessary. Upon completion of work activities, remove the fencing and discard offsite. Tribal Monitors may voluntarily participate in the project and may be present during any on-site activities to observe work activities and assist in ensuring that sensitive tribal resources are not impacted, provided any such monitoring can be conducted safely. Tree cutting activities at Parcel 031-1020-059 may require a tribal monitor present.

1.17 Environmental and Biological Considerations: All tree service work will be performed between August 15 and February 15 of each calendar year to the maximum extent practical. Work outside this window may occur only if approved in advance by USACE as additional measures will need to be implemented.

Prior to the start of work, the Contractor shall conduct pre-construction biological surveys of the treatment, staging, and disposal areas. Surveys shall include a thorough search for special status species and their designated critical habitats, aquatic features (e.g. wetlands, marshes, meadows, creeks), and active bird nests. A report shall be prepared documenting the survey results, including Federal, State, and USFS Region 5 sensitive species, as well as any sensitive or resources to be avoided. If any active nests are located, appropriate avoidance and minimization measures shall be implemented. Granary trees shall be avoided to the extent possible as they provide food storage.

The contractor shall provide a qualified biological monitor who shall be on call throughout the period of performance for monitoring duties. The biological monitor will be required onsite if work occurs post February 15, 2025, once approval is obtained from USACE. Biological monitors will be required in the event of listed or endangered species being sited near or within the project area. The USACE COR will direct the contractor to have a monitor on site if necessary. The contractor shall minimize interference, disturbance, and damage to fish, wildlife, and plants including their habitat.

The contractor shall be responsible for the protection of threatened and endangered animal and plant species including their habitat in accordance with all Federal, State, Regional, and local laws and regulations.

USFS Resources Protection Measures

1. To the extent feasible, treatment activities will be conducted outside the Migratory bird nesting season (February 15 through September 15). If work is performed during the breeding season, pre-treatment surveys are recommended to identify nests in the treatment area. If pre-treatment surveys are not possible, active nests located during treatment activities should receive the same exclusionary buffer. If active nests are found and are potentially affected by the project, then a buffer should be put in place, or the work should not proceed until after the young have fledged or the nest is otherwise deemed inactive. Nesting bird surveys are valid for no more than seven (7) days, after which a new survey must be conducted.

2. All project activities including pedestrian traffic, staging and ground disturbance will be confined to the smallest area possible.

3. No new access routes will be created for the purpose of project implementation.

4. General and U.S. Forest Service Region 5 designated sensitive species (FSS) wildlife species encountered during project implementation should be given the opportunity to evacuate the site, prior to construction activities resuming, including venomous species such as rattlesnakes. If needed, reptile species, including rattlesnakes, can be moved from the project site using nonlethal means such as sticks, shovel handles, buckets, or similar containers.

Should any FSS wildlife species be found within the project site, the COR and a USFS Biologist shall be notified, and they should be relocated or otherwise avoided (according to the USACE COR and USFS Biologist recommendations) and allowed to vacate the area of potential affect.

5. All trash must be removed from the jobsite daily including construction-related debris and trash upon completion of the project.

6. Project generated garbage must be properly stored/disposed/recycled for the duration of the project. When operations are complete, any excess materials or debris shall be removed from the work area

7. If excavations are to be left open and unattended for more than 12 hours, they must either be covered, or an escape ramp shall be constructed to the bottom of the pit with less than a 2 to1 slope to provide an escape route for small wildlife species such as lizards and rodents. To the extent feasible, excavations shall not be left open at the end of the day and shall be covered after confirming absence of trapped individuals. Prior to commencement of work activity each day, staff shall check excavations to make sure no animals are trapped.

8. Before backfilling or permanently closing any excavation, it must be checked to make sure no wildlife is present within the excavated area. If wildlife has become trapped, backfilling cannot begin until the individual has either been removed or exited the excavation.

9. Project personnel will be prohibited from bringing domestic pets to construction sites to ensure that domestic pets do not disturb or depredate wildlife in adjacent native habitats.

10. To limit the spread and establishment of invasive plant species, all hand tools, work vehicles and heavy equipment used during project implementation will be free of noxious and/or invasive exotic weeds and seeds before entering the project site. Vehicle washing guidelines shall be implemented for equipment associated with vegetation modification or ground disturbing activities.

11. New occurrences of threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, or sensitive (TEPCS) plant species discovered before or during project activities will be protected through flag-and-avoid methods. A pre-project survey will be conducted by the Forest Service prior to cutting activities. Occurrences of Federally listed plants and FSS plants shall be reported to the COR and USFS.

12. If FSS plants cannot be avoided, plants should be transplanted to appropriate habitat outside of the project footprint. Transplantation sites will be coordinated with the COR and a USFS botanist. Otherwise, they need to be fenced off and protected in place.

13. Efforts will be made to avoid trampling native herbaceous or shrubby vegetation. Contractors will make every attempt to remain on existing paved roads and areas with vehicles and heavy equipment.

14. All plant material (e.g. straw, mulch, seeds, etc.) used for erosion control and/or road maintenance must be certified weed-free; or locally sourced from the Forest (e.g., wood chips from the Forest). If rice straw or rice mulch is used it must be certified weed-free. All erosion control materials must be biodegradable. Wattles wrapped in “photodegradable” plastic are not acceptable.

15. Ground disturbance shall be limited to the minimum necessary for project activities.

16. All project activities including vehicle traffic, pedestrian traffic, and staging shall be confined to the smallest area possible. All vehicles, tools and equipment shall be restricted to existing access roads or disturbed areas to the maximum extent feasible.

17. To protect non-target tree root systems, activities (including pedestrian use) that would lead to soil compaction or soil disturbance shall be avoided within the non-target tree’s drip line.

18. If target invasive plants are found within the project area, they shall be removed prior to commencement of work or protected in place. The contractor will be notified of species and location for removal.

19. If invasive plant treatment is required, it shall follow the design criteria, application methods, and post-application monitoring protocols outlined in the ANF LMP (2005) and further prescribed in the Invasive Plant Treatment Project Environmental Assessment (EA) for San Gabriel River Ranger District (2011) and the Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains National Monument Plan for Invasive Plants (2015).

Special Status Bat Mitigation Best Management Practices (BMP) Measures

Implement the following measures to minimize impact to special status bat species. Mark the trees indicated on the Survey of Trees with Potential Bat Cavity Roosts for approval by the COR prior to removal. After approval of the trees marked for special treatment, trees indicated for removal that are not indicated as suitable for nesting by bats may be removed. The monitoring biologist must attend a meeting with Government COR and environmental personnel prior to tree removal to discuss the intent and implementation of measures to protect special status bat species. This can be part of the preparatory meeting held prior to tree removal.

The first day, under the supervision of the biological monitor, remove limbs and branches that do not contain cavities, cracks, crevices, or deep bark fissures that can provide roosting habitat. On the second day remove the remainder of tree by gently lowering the tree to the ground, under the supervision of the biological monitor. If it is not feasible to remove a tree using the two-phased approach, limbs containing habitat features should be removed and gently lowered to the ground in a location where they are not likely to be crushed or disturbed by the felling of the tree and left undisturbed for the next 48 hours.

Standing dead trees or snags with habitat features should be removed over a single day by gently lowering the tree or snag to the ground. The tree or snag should be left undisturbed on the site for the next 48 hours.

Trimming activities shall be conducted in the presence of a biological monitor. If trimming results in the removal of vegetation that contains potential bat habitat, vegetation should be gently lowered to the ground and left near the tree for 48 hours prior to removal, if feasible. If the vegetation cannot be left for 48 hours, the biological monitor shall survey the vegetation for presence of bats. If any bats are found within the vegetation, the vegetation must be left for 48 hours (or CDFW should be called for guidance regarding relocation of the bat dependent on urgency for removal).

If trees must be removed during bat pupping season (April 1st through August 31st), within 30 days of tree removal any trees designated as suitable bat roosting habitat must be surveyed by the designated biological monitor for active maternity roosts prior to removal.

• Surveys must be conducted from dusk until dark.

• If any special-status species bat maternity roost is located, appropriate buffers must be established by clearly marking the buffer area.

• The buffer area must be a minimum of 100 feet outside the tree containing the maternity roost.

• No contract activities shall commence within the buffer areas until the end of pupping season (September 1st), or the biological monitor confirms that the maternity roost is no longer active.

• If construction activities must occur within the buffer, the biological monitor must monitor activities either continuously or periodically during the work, which will be determined by the biological monitor.

• The biological monitor shall be empowered to stop activities that, in their opinion, would cause unanticipated adverse effects on specials status bats. If construction activities are stopped, the biological monitor would inform USFS, USACE COR, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) would be consulted to determine appropriate measures to implement to avoid adverse effects.

The biological monitor must attend a meeting with State’s environmental personnel prior to tree removal to discuss the intent and implementation of measures to protect special status bat species. This can be part of the preparatory meeting held prior to tree removal.

USACE COR will provide the biological monitor with data sheets that must be used to document removal of trees identified in the exhibits. At minimum, the biological monitor should document the following information: weather conditions, date, and time of removal for each tree, method(s) of removal for each tree and reasoning, equipment used, and any other biological observations of note. The biological monitor should also take photos pre and post felling of each tree identified on the provided exhibit maps.

1.18 Identification of Contractor Employees: All contract personnel attending meetings and working in other situations where their contractor status is not obvious to third parties are required to identify themselves as such to avoid creating an impression in the minds of members of the public that they are Government officials. They must also ensure that all documents or reports produced by contractors are suitably marked as contractor products or that contractor participation is appropriately disclosed.

1.19 Standards of Employee Conduct: Personnel are required to adhere to the following standards of dress and conduct while performing work at the project sites. These regulations are enforceable as per the US Army Corps of Engineers Safety and Health Requirements Manual, EM385-1-1.

• All on-site personnel shall have appropriate and necessary protective and safety equipment.

Hard hats, steel-toed shoes, gloves, eye protection, helmets, chainsaw protective gear (as necessary) are required in accordance with EM385-1-1 OSHA requirements.

• Contractor employees shall maintain personal hygiene.

• Loud or boisterous behavior or use of profane or abusive language are not permitted.

• Intoxicating beverages and/or drugs at the work site are not permitted.

• Possession of weapons at the work site is prohibited.

1.20 Parking Regulations: Contractor employees may park privately owned vehicles in the area designated for parking as designated by the COR and the United States Forest Service site representative. Contractor shall ensure employees park in the appropriate designated parking areas at time of task order. The Government will not invalidate or make reimbursement for parking violations under any conditions.

1.21 Data Rights: The Government has unlimited rights to all documents/material produced under this contract. All documents and materials, to include the source codes of any software, produced under this contract shall be Government owned and are the property of the Government with all rights and privileges of ownership/copyright belonging exclusively to the Government. These documents and materials may not be used or sold by the contractor without written permission from the Contracting Officer. All materials supplied to the Government shall be the sole property of the Government and may not be used for any other purpose. This right does not abrogate any other Government rights.

1.22 Organizational Conflict of Interest: Contractor and subcontractor personnel performing work under this contract may receive, have access to or participate in the development of proprietary or source selection information (e.g., cost or pricing information, budget information or analyses, specifications or work statements, etc.) or perform evaluation services which may create a current or subsequent Organizational Conflict of Interests (OCI) as defined in RFO Subpart 9.5 - Organizational and Consultant Conflicts of Interest. The Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer immediately whenever it becomes aware that such access or participation may result in any actual or potential OCI and shall promptly submit a plan to the Contracting Officer to avoid or mitigate any such OCI. The Contractor’s mitigation plan will be determined to be acceptable solely at the discretion of the Contracting Officer and in the event the Contracting Officer unilaterally determines that any such OCI cannot be satisfactorily avoided or mitigated, the Contracting Officer may enact other remedies as he or she deems necessary, including prohibiting the Contractor from participation in subsequent contracted requirements which may be affected by the OCI.

1.23 Coordination with the United States Forest Service: USACE COR will coordinate rights of entry for the contractor prior to the commencement of work. After which the Contractor will be subject to the United States Forest Service site rules and conduct while within the project site.

1.24 Payment and Invoices:

Give a detailed description of the contract line-item number (CLIN) on an invoice. Upon receipt, the COR will certify that the requested earnings are appropriate before payment will be made. Include all necessary information on the invoice, including any necessary supporting documentation required as part of this Performance Work Statement. Provide the contract number on each invoice. Mark the final invoice “FINAL.” Provide copies of all invoices and work summaries to the following:

• Email invoices to the COR for review. This COR will inspect completed work as stated on the invoice and then submit to the Contractor a confirmation notice or denial of payment until work is completed. The COR will prepare a receipt of acceptance report for each invoice. Afterwards the COR will submit the invoice for payment. The contractor will receive an email notification indicating the invoice has been received and payment is scheduled (within 30 days of submission).

• Provide each invoice with a date, a unique invoice number, contract number, company name, USACE project name, as well as CLIN number, task description and amount being billed against. Also include a billing summary history of all preceding invoices billed. The contractor may request a template invoice from the COR if necessary. Invoicing will follow the specific format outlined above.

1.25 Authorities/Technical Direction: Contractor shall take no direction from any Government employee or any other person other than the Government Contracting Officer that changes the terms and conditions of this contract action, the scope, or any change that impacts the cost, price, or schedule. Changes authorized by the Contracting Officer will be in the form of a written, official, signed modification to the Contract action before any changes can be made. Comply with the Changes clause of this Contract when direction has been given from persons other than the Government Contracting Officer that equate to a change by notifying the Contracting Officer. Report any direction given by any Government employee or any other person outside their authority to the Contracting Officer.

1.26 Integrated Protection/Security Program Requirements:

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

The Contractor is responsible for compliance with these security requirements. Questions regarding security matters shall be addressed to the designated Government representative (e.g., COR). Contract personnel are critical to the overall security and safety of US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) installations, facilities and activities, and security awareness training contributes to those efforts. The Department of Defense (DoD) and Army security training requirements specified below, if applicable, are performance requirements; all applicable contract personnel shall complete initial training within 30 days of contract award or the date new contract personnel begin performance on the contract. Within five business days from the completion of training, the Contractor shall provide written documentation (e.g., email or memorandum) to the Government representative. The documentation shall include the names of contract personnel trained and which training they completed; the Contractor shall maintain training records as part of their contract files and be prepared to provide copies of training certificates to the Government representative. Contractor personnel and vehicles are subject to search when entering federal installations. Additionally, all contract personnel shall comply with Force Protection Condition (FPCON) measures, Random Antiterrorism Measures (commonly referred to as “RAMs”), and Health Protection Condition (HPCON) measures. The Contractor is responsible for meeting performance requirements during elevated FPCON and/or HPCON levels in accordance with applicable plans and procedures—this includes identifying mission essential and non-mission essential personnel. In addition to the changes otherwise authorized by the changes clause of this contract, should the FPCON or HPCON levels at any individual facility or installation change, the Government may implement security changes that affect contract personnel. The Contractor shall ensure all contract personnel are aware of their security responsibilities, including any site-specific requirements identified in local policies or procedures.

2. RESERVED

3. Pre-screen candidates using E-Verify Program: Contractors shall comply with the requirements set forth in FAR clause 52.222-54 Employment Eligibility Verification and FAR Subpart 22.18 in using the E-Verify Program at (https://www.e-verify.gov/) (website subject to change) to meet the contract employment eligibility requirements. Contractors are encouraged to cooperate with Federal and State agencies responsible for enforcing labor requirements to include eligibility for employment under United States immigration laws in accordance with FAR 22.102-1(i). An initial list of verified/eligible candidates shall be provided to the COR no later than three business days after the initial contract award. When contracts are with individuals, the individuals will be required to complete a Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, and submit it to the COR to become part of the official contract file.

2. Acronyms:

AFARS Army Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement AHA Activity Hazard Analysis APP Accident Prevention Plan BMP Best Management Practice (used in context of erosion control for compliance with stormwater pollution requirements) COR Contracting Officer Representative DFARS Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement DMDC Defense Manpower Data Center DOD Department of Defense FAR/RFO Federal Acquisition Regulation GDA Government Designated Authority KO Contracting Officer OCI Organizational Conflict of Interest ODC Other Direct Costs PEL Permissible Exposure Limit POC Point of Contact PRS Performance Requirements Summary PWS Performance Work Statement QA Quality Assurance QAP Quality Assurance Program QASP Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan QC Quality Control QCP Quality Control Program TE Technical Exhibit TLV Threshold Limit

3. PRE-WORK SUBMITTALS:

Provide all submittals to the COR. Provide submittals in electronic format within 14 Days of contract award. Field work will commence after all submittals are reviewed and accepted by the government.

• Activity Hazard Analysis (AHA) o The Contractor shall develop an Activity Hazard Analysis (AHA) for every operation involving site activities presenting hazards. The AHA(s) format shall be in accordance with Figure 1-2 of EM 385-1-1. Subsequent AHAs shall be submitted as amendments to the APP. The analysis shall identify and evaluate hazards and outline the proposed methods and techniques for the safe completion of each phase of work. At a minimum, the AHA shall define activity being performed, sequence of work, specific safety and health hazards anticipated, control measures (to include personal protective equipment) to eliminate or reduce each hazard to acceptable levels, equipment to be used, inspection requirements, training requirements for all involved, and the competent person in charge of that phase of work.

o Perform training and safety precautions for employees working under these specifications. OSHA standards shall be observed in all work performed. Appropriate safety equipment shall be furnished and used as prescribed by OSHA and EM 385-1-1 standards, including hard hats, safety shoes, safety glasses, high visibility apparel meeting ANSI/ISEA 107, Performance Class 2, and hearing protection devices. The following OSHA and NFPA standards and codes are to be adhered to:

o National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): 10-1998 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers.

o Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OHSA) 29 CFR 1910 Safety and Health Regulations for Personal Protection, Safety Color Codes, Portable Power Tools, Electrical Safety and Portable Electric Equipment.

o Site Access: Maintain free and unobstructed access to facility emergency services and for fire, police, and other emergency response forces in accordance with NFPA 241.

o Include a traffic control plan which will be coordinated with applicable local jurisdiction through USACE as necessary for the tree service activities. An escort vehicle will be required for ingress and egress of heavy equipment and transport tractor/trailers.

o References. The Contractor’s APP Appendix and subsequent activities shall comply with the following reference documents (most current version, to include changes, if different than the date referenced), at a minimum:

EM 385-1-1, USACE Safety & Health Requirements Manual, 30 November

14 Edition, specifically Section 31Tree Maintenance and Removal.

http://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Publications/EngineerMa nuals/EM_385-1-1.pdf Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1910, Occupational Safety and Health Standards.

NIOSH/OSHA/USCG/EPA, Occupational Safety and Health Guidance Manual for Hazardous Waste Activities (October 1985).

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH®), TLVs® and BELs®, Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents & Biological Exposure Indices (2016).

Title 8 California Code of Regulations (CCR) Chapter 4 Subchapter 4, Construction Safety Orders.

8 CCR Chapter 4 Subchapter 7, General Industry Safety Orders.

8 CCR Sections 3203 & 1509, Injury and Illness Prevention Program.

OSHA ancillary safety and health regulations governing certain aspects for this contract include:

Respiratory Protection (29 CFR 1910.134/8 CCR Section 5144) Occupational Noise Exposure (29 CFR 1910.95/8 CCR Sections 5095-5100) Hazard Communication (29 CFR 1910.1200/29 CFR 1926.59/8 CCR Section

5194) Proposition 65 (22 CCR Section 12000) Chemicals Know to the State to

Cause Cancer or Reproductive Toxicity

• Environmental Protection Plan (EPP):

o Temporary Work Facility Plan: showing locations of ingress/egress, material storage, structures, sanitary facilities, fence locations, signs, etc. Show proposed activity in each portion of the site and measures for marking the limits of use http://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Publications/EngineerManuals/EM_385-1-1.pdf http://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Publications/EngineerManuals/EM_385-1-1.pdf areas and areas to be preserved. List measures to be conducted to minimize the amount of mud transported onto paved public roads.

o Spill Control Plan: including procedures, instructions, and reports to be used in the event of an unforeseen spill.

o General Requirements:

i. Contractor shall verify all existing underground conditions and dimensions prior to excavation.

ii. The job site shall be left in a clean and orderly condition during installation, and all installation debris and excess material shall be removed upon completion of the job. Contractor shall not use Government trash cans, dumpsters, or other waste receptacles.

iii. All work shall comply with the specifications of the contract.

iv. Installation shall follow all applicable local, state, and federal standards.

v. Contractor is subject to all Defense Distribution Depot San Joaquin health and safety regulations and DLA security requirements.

vi. Read and adhere to Air District Rule 8021 such as limiting fugitive dust, speed limitations and submitting Dust Control Plan (DCP) if exceeding 2,500 cubic yards/day of moved, deposited, or relocated bulk materials on at least three days of the project.

vii. Written notification to Air District at least 48 hours to commencing any earthmoving activities and 10 days prior if submitting a DCP.

viii. Submit the DCP to the environmental office.

ix. Any soil-disturbing equipment shall be thoroughly washed prior to bringing on the project site. This is to reduce and possibly prevent invasive/noxious weed growth.

4.0 TASKS:

4.1 Submittals:

Develop pre-work submittals for government approval prior to starting work on site.

4.2 Tree Cutting, Trimming, and Disposal:

• Fell 75 trees, grind slash and broadcast at the chip area designated on Exhibit E or remove from site. Deck or chip boles at designated processing areas. Leave stumps at 6 inch height.

Target length of logs should be 14 ft but not shorter than 9 feet.

Minimum diameter shall be 12 inches

• Trim 21 trees, and broadcast slash at designated the designated chipping area. Refer to Exhibit E. Grind slash or remove from site within research facility area. Chip depth not to exceed 3 inches.

• Trim 2 trees at end of unpaved road accessing the research facility area.

• Provide straw filled coir log roles at the downhill perimeter interface of the chipping area prior to chipping operations.

Refer to the attached 2024 Tanbark Flat Arborist Tree Inventory Report (Exhibit F) for specific tree cutting and trimming locations.

Task completion is subject to verification and conformance to the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan.

5.0. SUBMITTALS

Refer to Section 9 for the Submittal Register for a listing of submittals. Submittals referenced in the PWS sections must be submitted to the COR with one hard copy and one electronic copy. The electronic copies must be submitted via internet or on CD in PDF format. Scan paper copies of product information for electronic submittal. Submittals referenced in the Attachments must follow the procedures in each attachment for each required submittal. Refer to the section within each attachment titled “Submittals”. Provide submittals in timely manner so that the accepted project schedule is not delayed and at least 48 hours are provided for Government review when required.

Work governed by or including products which involve submittals requiring Government acceptance may not proceed until submittals are provided and reviews complete. Products or materials which require submittals which involve Government acceptance must not be installed or delivered to the site prior to acceptance of the submittals. Products or materials with submittals requiring Government acceptance and not conforming to contract requirements which are installed or delivered to the site prior to acceptance of submittals shall be replaced at no additional cost to the Government with products or materials conforming to contract requirements. Payment for items requiring submittals will not be made until the correct submittals are provided and any required approvals provided. Provide electronic document submittals to the COR

6.0. APPLICABLE PUBLICATIONS (CURRENT EDITIONS)

The Contractor must abide by all applicable regulations, publications, manuals, and local policies and procedures:

• USACE EM 385-1-1

• Occupational Safety and Health Guidance Manual for Hazardous Waste Activities

• American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH®), TLVs® and

BELs®, Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents & Biological Exposure Indices

• Title 8 California Code of Regulations (CCR) Chapter 4 Subchapter 4, Construction Safety Orders

• 8 CCR Chapter 4 Subchapter 7, General Industry Safety Orders

• CCR Sections 3203 & 1509, Injury and Illness Prevention Program

• OSHA ancillary safety and health regulations governing certain aspects of this contract include

• Respiratory Protection (29 CFR 1910.134/8 CCR Section 5144)

• Occupational Noise Exposure (29 CFR 1910.95/8 CCR Sections 5095-5100)

• Hazard Communication (29 CFR 1910.1200/29 CFR 1926.59/8 CCR Section 5194)

• The Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tag out) (29 CFR 1910.147)

• Proposition 65 (22 CCR Section 12000) Chemicals Known to the State to Cause Cancer or

Reproductive Toxicity

• Title 8 California Code of Regulations (CCR) Section 3203 and Section 1509

• Underground Service Alert (U.S.A.) at 1-800-642-2444. Read the requirements for locator qualification law within Cal/OSHA Standards.

• Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards (36 CFR Part 61)

• USFS Land Management Plan for Angeles National Forest

• 2024 Tanbark Flat Arborist Tree Inventory Report

• USFS Region 5 Special Status Species Lists (plants and wildlife)

7.0. Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan

Performance Standard Acceptable Quality Level (AQL)

Method and Frequency of Inspection)

Remedy

Submittals

100% required.

The contractor must be in compliance with the US Army Corps of Engineers EM 385-1-1, Review by COR

Develop a plan for recovery and submit required plans within 5 working days of discovery.

Contractor shall reperform at no additional cost to the Government until the AQL is met

Perform tasks listed in Section 4.2 in this

PWS.

100% required

Periodic field inspection by COR during repair and/or removal

Contractor shall reperform at no additional cost to the Government until AQL is met.

8.0. SUBMITTAL REGISTER

Dates

Item

SD

Description Item

Submitted Acceptance Submitted Remarks

1 Prework Submittals

Accident Prevention Plan (APP)

G

2 Prework Submittals

Environmental Protection Plan (EPP)

G

9.0. EXHIBIT LIST

• Exhibit A – Site Location

• Exhibit B – Project Area Site Map

• Exhibit C – Site Access

• Exhibit D – Haul Route

• Exhibit E – Processing Area and Staging

• Exhibit F – 2024 Tanbark Flat Arborist Tree Inventory Report