R15PS00014_-_Tiber_Weed_Control_RFQ.pdf

U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation Great Plains Region October 2014

Request for Quotations (RFQ) Solicitation No. R15PS00014

Noxious, Invasive, and Nuisance Species Treatments, Lake Elwell, Tiber Dam, and Tiber Dike Lower Marias Unit, Milk River Project, Pick-Sloan Missouri Program, Montana

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Foreword - 1

NOXIOUS, INVASIVE, AND NUISANCE SPECIES TREATMENTS,

LAKE ELWELL, TIBER DAM, AND TIBER DIKE,

LOWER MARIAS UNIT, MILK RIVER PROJECT,

PICK-SLOAN MISSOURI BASIN PROGRAM, MONTANA

FOREWORD

Reclamation’s Great Plains Regional Office is soliciting quotations for the control of noxious weeds in accordance with State and Federal law and for the control of invasive and nuisance weed species on lands surrounding Lake Elwell, Tiber Dam, and Tiber Dike in Liberty County and in Toole County.

This work will include weed, vegetation, and brush control to features identified by Reclamation personnel. Features will include, but are not limited to, campgrounds, day use areas, and operations and maintenance grounds. The anticipated period of performance includes a twelve-month base period and four 1-year option periods.

The Government strongly urges offerors to inspect the site where offerors are to perform the required services, and to satisfy themselves regarding all general and local conditions that may affect the cost of performance. In no event shall failure to inspect the site constitute grounds for a claim after award.

There are approximately 25,000 acres included in the entire contract area that the contractor shall survey for treatment. Reclamation requires the contractor to record and identify all the treated, monitored, and surveyed areas on a map.

CONTRACTOR’S SHALL MAKE INQUIRIES REGARDING THIS REQUEST FOR

QUOTATION TO THE FOLLOWING PERSONNEL:

Bureau of Reclamation Attention: GP-5000 (Christine Mundt) 2021 4th Avenue North Billings, Montana 59101 Telephone (406) 247-7805 E-mail cmundt@usbr.gov

SITE VISIT: OFFERORS INTERESTED IN SCHEDULING A SITE VISIT SHALL CONTACT

MR. MICHAEL HILLIARD AT 406-759-5080. RECLAMATION WILL COORDINATE SITE

VISITS MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY, 8:00 AM TO 4:30 PM, HOLIDAYS EXCLUDED.

OFFERORS SHALL ARRANGE A SITE VISIT NO LATER THAN 5 WORKING DAYS PRIOR

TO THE QUOTE RESPONSE DATE. IN NO EVENT SHALL FAILURE TO INSPECT THE SITE

CONSTITUTE GROUNDS FOR A CLAIM AFTER AWARD.

QUOTE RESPONSE DATE: FOR DATES WHEN CONTRACTORS ARE TO SUBMIT THEIR

QUOTES, SEE BLOCK 8 OF STANDARD FORM 1449, “SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER

FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS.” CONTRACTORS MAY MAIL THEIR QUOTES TO THE

ADDRESS SHOW IN BLOCK 9, FAX THEIR QUOTES TO (406) 247-7806, SUBMIT THEIR

QUOTES ELECTRONICALLY THROUGH FEDBIZOPPS/FEDCONNECT, OR E-MAIL THEIR

QUOTES TO CMUNDT@USBR.GOV.

mailto:cmundt@usbr.gov mailto:CMUNDT@USBR.GOV

Foreword - 2

METHOD OF PROCUREMENT: THIS PROCUREMENT IS CONDUCTED UNDER FULL

AND OPEN COMPETITION AND IS A PERFORMANCE-BASED COMMERCIAL SERVICE

ACQUISITION, PURSUANT TO FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATIONS (FAR), PART 12,

PART 13.5 (TEST PROGRAM FOR CERTAIN COMMERCIAL ITEMS), PART 17, PART 19, AND

PART 37.

SAM: EFFECTIVE JULY 29, 2012, ANY CONTRACTOR INTERESTED IN DOING BUSINESS

WITH THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MUST REGISTER IN THE SYSTEM FOR AWARD

MANAGEMENT (SAM) DATABASE PRIOR TO AWARD OF A CONTRACT OR AGREEMENT.

SAM IS A FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OWNED AND OPERATED FREE WEBSITE, WHICH

CONSOLIDATES THE CENTRAL CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION (CCR), THE ONLINE

REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS APPLICATION (ORCA), AND THE EXCLUDED

PARTIES LIST SYSTEM (EPLS).

THE VENDOR'S DUNS & BRADSTREET NUMBER AND BANKING INFORMATION ARE

REQUIRED FOR REGISTRATION. CONTRACTORS MAY OBTAIN INFORMATION ON

REGISTRATION AND ANNUAL CONFIRMATION REQUIREMENTS VIA THE SAM WEBSITE

ACCESSED THROUGH HTTPS://WWW.SAM.GOV/PORTAL/PUBLIC/SAM/ OR BY THE

FEDERAL SERVICE DESK AT 1-866-606-8220.

IPP: PAYMENT REQUESTS FOR THE ANTICIPATED CONTRACT MUST BE SUBMITTED

ELECTRONICALLY THROUGH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY’S INTERNET

PAYMENT PLATFORM SYSTEM (IPP). THE IPP WEBSITE ADDRESS IS:

HTTPS://WWW.IPP.GOV. IF THE CONTRACTOR IS UNABLE TO COMPLY WITH THE

REQUIREMENT TO USE IPP FOR SUBMITTING INVOICES FOR PAYMENT, THE

CONTRACTOR MUST SUBMIT A WAIVER REQUEST IN WRITING TO THE

CONTRACTING OFFICER WITH ITS PROPOSAL OR QUOTATION.

CONTRACTOR ASSISTANCE WITH ENROLLMENT CAN BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING

THE IPP PRODUCTION HELPDESK VIA EMAIL IPPGROUP@BOS.FRB.ORG OR PHONE (866)

973-3131.

https://www.sam.gov/PORTAL/PUBLIC/SAM/

Document No.

R15PS00014

Document Title Noxious, Invasive, and Nuisance Species Treatments

TOC - 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION A – REQUEST FOR QUOTATION

Standard Form 1449 ........................................................................................... Separate Download

SECTION B – SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES / COSTS

Standard Form 1449 ........................................................................................... Separate Download Optional Form 336 ............................................................................................. Separate Download

SECTION C – PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

Performance Work Statement .................................................................................................... C - 1 Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan ............................................................................. Appendix A Bureau of Reclamation’s Maps ...................................................................................... Appendix B

SECTION D – NOT USED

SECTION E -- INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

E.1 Inspection of Services - Fixed Price .............................................................................. E - 1

SECTION F -- NOT USED

SECTION G -- CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

G.1 Postaward Conference--Bureau of Reclamation ........................................................... G - 1 G.2 Electronic Invoicing and Payment Requirements-Internet Payment Platform .............. G - 1 G.3 Contractor’s Administration Personnel ......................................................................... G - 2

SECTION H -- SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

H.1 Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System ............................................... H - 1 H.2 Site Security .................................................................................................................. H - 2

PART II – CONTRACT CLAUSES

SECTION I -- CONTRACT CLAUSES

I.1 Clauses Incorporated by Reference ................................................................................ I - 1 I.2 Contract Terms and Conditions Required to Implement Statues or Executive Orders -- Commercial Items .......................................................................... I - 1 I.3 Option to Extend the Term of the Contract .................................................................... I - 7 I.4 Liability Insurance -- Department of the Interior ........................................................... I - 7 I.5 Safety and Health -- Bureau of Reclamation .................................................................. I - 8 I.6 Protecting Federal Employees and the Public from Exposure to Tobacco Smoke in the Federal Workplace -- Bureau of Reclamation ...................................................... I - 8 I.7 Certification of Representatives for Corporate Sureties -- Bureau of Reclamation ....... I - 9 I.8 Security Requirements -- Bureau of Reclamation .......................................................... I - 9

TOC - 2

PART III – LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, AND OTHER

ATTACHMENTS

SECTION J – LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

Service Contract Act Wage Determination Company Experience Reference List Past Performance Questionnaire

PART IV – REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

SECTION K -- REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS, AND OTHER STATEMENTS OF

OFFERORS OR RESPONDENTS

K.1 Offeror Representations and Certifications - Commercial Items .................................. K - 1

SECTION L -- INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS, AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS OR

RESPONDENTS

L.1 System for Award Management .................................................................................... L - 1 L.2 Instructions to Offerors -- Commercial Items ............................................................... L - 2 L.3 Site Visit ........................................................................................................................ L - 5 L.4 Authorized Deviations in Provisions ............................................................................. L - 6 L.5 Service of Protest Department of the Interior (Deviation) ............................................ L - 6 L.6 Use and Disclosure of Proposal Information -- Department of the Interior .................. L - 6 L.7 Notice of Intent to Acquire Metric Products and Services -- Bureau of Reclamation .............................................................................................................. L - 8 L.8 Authorized Workers Notice to Potential Bureau of Reclamation Contractors .............. L - 8

SECTION M – EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

M.1 Evaluation—Commercial Items ................................................................................... M - 1 M.2 Notice of World Trade Organization Government Procurement Agreement Evaluations--Bureau of Reclamation ........................................................................... M - 3

PART I -- THE SCHEDULE

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SECTION C -- PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

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PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

1. SECTION C-1

GENERAL

1.1. BACKGROUND.

The Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) anticipates the award of a contract for noxious weed species, invasive weed species, and nuisance plant species treatment services on federal lands surrounding Lake Elwell, Tiber Dam, and Tiber Dike in Montana.

Reclamation originally constructed the Lower Marias Unit for flood control and irrigation purposes to irrigate 127,000 acres of land. Present operations also supply municipal and industrial water, provide recreation opportunities, enhance fish and wildlife habitat, and provide electricity through a privately developed hydropower plant. Tiber Dam and Dike is a zoned earthfill structure that impounds the Marias River forming Lake Elwell. This facility is located approximately 18 miles southwest of Chester, Montana.

Noxious, invasive, and nuisance plants reduce habitat for native plants and animals, increase erosion, degrade riparian areas, create fire hazards, cause significant economic losses, and interfere with recreational activities. As such, the contractor must recognize that the timely and accurate performance of the required services is a vital and mandatory requirement of the contract.

The work required under the contract is to control noxious weeds in accordance with State and Federal law and to control invasive and nuisance species (as identified by Reclamation) on lands surrounding Lake Elwell, Tiber Dam, and Tiber Dike in Liberty County and in Toole County.

This work will include weed, vegetation, and brush control to features identified by Reclamation personnel. Features to be identified will include, but are not limited to, campgrounds, day use areas, and operations and maintenance grounds.

1.2. GENERAL SCOPE OF WORK.

Except as specified in Section C-3, the contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, tools, materials, incidental services and items, and supervision necessary to satisfactorily conduct an existing and ongoing noxious, invasive, and nuisance weed control program. Appendix B contains overview maps of the reservoir area and aerial images of designated vegetation-free areas and specified weed-free areas.

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The contractor shall utilize a variety of treatment methods that may include but are not limited to chemical, biological, mechanical and other preventative measures as deemed necessary. The contractor shall specify which treatment methods they will use in their general work plan as addressed in Section 4.2 of this Performance Work Statement (PWS).

If the contractor intends to use chemical treatment methods, they shall use herbicides based on the noxious/invasive/nuisance species, objectives, and situations specified under individual application sites identified in Section C-5. For any one site, the contractor may use more than one chemical, depending on the variety of species and environmental conditions. The contractor shall complete treatments using rates indicated on the labels and appropriate for site conditions.

Additionally, if the contractor uses chemical treatment methods, they shall use appropriate surfactants where indicated on the label. A dye shall be added to all liquid herbicides or tank mixtures at a rate sufficient to ensure that the applications are visible to the Government’s inspector. The contractor shall advise Reclamation of treated areas on a weekly basis to allow for timely inspection of treatment areas.

There are approximately 25,000 acres included in the entire contract area that the contractor shall survey for treatment of noxious and invasive species. Reclamation requires that the contractor records and identifies all the treated, monitored, and surveyed areas on a map.

The contractor shall coordinate noxious weed control efforts with surrounding landowners.

Coordination with Reclamation and other entities is necessary to utilize integrated pest management (IPM) methods to maximize noxious weed control. The use of some IPM methods may reduce the total areas treated with herbicides. For example, the establishment of some bio-control may necessitate excluding herbicide treatments in areas where these insectaries are being established. Herbicide treatment of the perimeter of these noxious weed infestations may still be required.

1.3. CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL.

1.3.1. Contractor Authority. The contractor shall have the authority under the Montana County Weed Control Act (Title 7, Chapter 22, Part 21) to issue notice and process potential noxious weed complaints against Reclamation. In accordance with such authority, the contractor shall respond to any complaints and treat the noxious weeds within the prescribed time frame (currently 10 days).

1.3.2. Administration Personnel. The contractor shall designate a representative in accordance with the clause at GP-3 included in Section G of the solicitation. The contractor’s representative shall have authority to act for the contractor on all contract matters relating to daily operation of the resultant contract. The contractor’s representative shall read, write, speak and understand the English language.

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1.3.3. Employees.

The contractor shall furnish qualified, experienced, drug-free, and safety-oriented personnel to perform the services under this contract. Employees shall promptly correct unsafe working conditions or report them to the Contracting Officer (CO) or other authorized officers.

Employees shall report all accidents and injuries, no matter how minor they may seem.

Additionally, this contract is subject to the Department of Labor wage rates under the Service Contract Act of 1965. If Reclamation exercises any option periods, the CO will furnish updated wage determinations issued by the Wage and Hour Division at the beginning of each renewal option period. The contractor shall be responsible for paying employees under this contract the required minimum monetary wages and fringe benefits.

1.3.3.1. Certifications.

The contractor is liable for the safety and health of its employees and the correct application of herbicides. The contractor shall keep commercial application records in accordance with Montana Department of Agriculture requirements.

The contractor shall follow all state and federal laws and have current and valid professional certifications before starting work:

Work Task/Service Type Certification/License/Training Invasive species control with pesticides Certified Montana state commercial applicator to apply pesticides with appropriate classification.

All other applicable laws including those of cultural and wildlife shall be adhered to during the life of the federal contract.

1.4. SAFETY AND HEALTH REQUIREMENT.

The contractor shall comply with the safety and health requirements of Reclamation Clause WBR 1452.223-81 incorporated in Section I. The contractor shall develop and submit a comprehensive safety plan within 10 calendar days after the post award conference. At a minimum, the contractor’s safety plan shall address the specified sections of the Reclamation Safety and Health Standards (RSHS). The RSHS is available electronically at http://www.usbr.gov/ssle/safety/RSHS/rshs.html.

• Section 3 Contractors Requirements

• Statement of Contractor Safety and Health Responsibilities – Acceptance of this contract ensures the contractor is responsible for the safety and health of their employees.

• Section 4 Work Planning

• Plan of Compliance with Regulations, Standards, and Codes – The contractor’s commitment and methods to comply with safety regulations, standards, and codes.

http://www.usbr.gov/ssle/safety/RSHS/rshs.html

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• Plan of Compliance for use of Sub-Contractors - The contractor’s commitment and methods to ensure that subcontractors are working safely.

• Plan of Procedure for Safety Inspection of Equipment – The contractor’s method of inspecting equipment to ensure that the equipment does not pose a hazard to employees.

• Section 10 Fire Prevention and Protection

• The contractor’s commitment and methods to exercise fire prevention at all times.

The contractor shall use and store and transport all combustible material in a safe manner. In the event of a fire, the contractor shall call 911 to report the fire and notify Reclamation.

• The contractor shall not store any equipment, fuel, fuel mixtures, or chemicals on Reclamation administered lands or property.

1.5. SECURITY OR ACCESS REQUIREMENT.

The contractor shall comply with the security requirements of Clause GP-7 incorporated in Section H and Reclamation Clause WBR 1452.237-80 incorporated in Section I. As such, at least 10 days prior to arriving onsite the contractor shall submit a list of the names of all contractor and subcontractor employees that will be working under the contract. This list must include a legible photocopy of each employee’s driver’s license. Additionally, the contractor shall submit a list of all contractor vehicles and equipment that the contractor will bring to the worksite. For each vehicle, the list shall include the year, make, model, color, license plate number, and state of issuance. This list must be updated if employees, vehicles, or equipment changes.

The contractor will not have unsupervised access to restricted areas during the performance of this contract. As such, Reclamation has determined that Personal Identity Verification (PIV) is not applicable to this requirement.

During any national emergency, the contractor and employees may be subject to additional screening for security purposes by Governmental agencies charged with the security of the nation. The contractor shall not employ any person that does not meet national security standards.

1.6. CONTRACTOR SPILL CONTINGENCY PLAN.

The contractor shall develop a spill contingency plan prior to any pesticide application. The Contracting Officer (CO) or his/her designated Quality Assurance Evaluator (QAE) will review and approve this plan within 10 calendar days after the post award conference and prior to the contractor commencing work onsite. The contractor shall instruct all individuals involved in pesticide handling and applications on the spill contingency plan including spill control, containment, notification and cleanup procedures. A spill cleanup kit shall be available in all vehicles carrying pesticides. The contractor shall not authorize pesticide mixing within 100 feet of any water sources. The contractor shall undertake all mixing and loading operations only in

C - 5 areas where any accidental spill could be contained prior to contamination of a stream or body of water.

1.7. CONTRACTOR QUALITY CONTROL.

1.7.1. Contractor’s Quality Control Plan. The contractor (and not the Government) is responsible for the management and quality control actions necessary to meet the quality standards set forth by the contract. As such, the contractor shall establish and maintain a Quality Control Plan (QCP) to ensure they achieve the requirements of the contract. The contractor shall furnish one copy of the contractor’s QCP to the CO and the QAE within 10 days after the post award conference. At a minimum the contractor’s QCP shall address the following items:

• Methods - The contractor’s methods for identifying and preventing deficiencies in the quality and timeliness of services performed before the level of performance becomes unacceptable.

• Performance Inspection - The contractor’s inspection system that covers all the services listed in the Performance Requirements Summary Table (PRST). It must specify if the contractor will inspect the services on a scheduled or unscheduled basis, how frequently the contractor will accomplish inspections and the title of the individual(s) who will perform the inspections.

• Records - An example of the contractor’s written or electronic database records that the contractor will use for all inspections. Additionally, the contractor shall maintain documentation of any necessary corrective actions taken by the contractor. The records shall be made available to the CO, as requested, during the term of the contract.

1.7.2. Government Review of QCP. The contractor shall develop and submit the QCP for

Government review and acceptance. The Government’s acceptance of the QCP does not relieve the contractor of their responsibility to perform services that conform to the contract requirements.

If the Government finds the contractor's plan to be adequate, the Government will accept the plan. The contractor then uses their QCP to guide and document the implementation of the required management and quality control actions to achieve the specified results.

If the Government finds the contractor's plan to be inadequate as submitted, the Government will identify the deficiencies to the contractor in writing. The contractor shall correct all identified deficiencies and submit a revised contractor QCP.

1.8. QUALITY ASSURANCE.

Reclamation has developed a Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) for the services required under this PWS, as required by FAR Subpart 37.6. The primary intent of this plan is to provide the Government’s Quality Assurance Evaluator (QAE) a basis for evaluating the quality of performance the contractor provides during the life of the contract. The QASP is not a part of

C - 6 the contract nor is it intended to duplicate the contractor’s QCP. The Government has provided an informational copy of the QASP under Appendix A of this PWS. The Government is providing this copy to support the contractor’s efforts in developing a QCP and for providing the contractor an opportunity to comment and propose innovative solutions for the Government’s QASP. The QASP is to be a living document that the Government should revise or modify as circumstances warrant.

1.8.1. Quality Assurance Evaluator (QAE). Prior to the commencement of onsite work, the CO will designate the QAE in writing to act as the authorized representative, which assists in the technical administration of the contract. The CO will not authorize the QAE to make any contractual commitments, or to authorize any contractual changes on the Government’s behalf.

If any doubt exists as to the extent of the authority of the QAE, the contractor shall contact the CO for guidance before taking action on the matter.

1.9. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE & HOURS OF OPERATION.

1.9.1. Period of Performance. The Government anticipates that the term of the contract shall be from the February 1, 2015 through January 31, 2016, plus four 1-year option periods.

Reclamation will exercise such option periods at the Government’s discretion.

During the base period, Reclamation anticipates that the contractor shall complete onsite treatments from May 1, 2015 through October 15, 2015. If weather, such as high winds or snow on the ground, restricts treatment during the designated time period, the contractor shall propose alternative dates and/or treatment that will meet Reclamation’s objectives. Proposals must follow the pesticide label and be submitted in writing and approved in advance.

If Reclamation exercises any of the option periods, the contractor shall coordinate the treatment schedules with the CO and the QAE.

1.9.2. Normal Hours. The contractor shall perform the specified services between sunrise and sunset. The hours may, however, be flexible at the discretion of the CO or the designated

QAE.

1.9.2.1.Recognized Holidays.

The contractor is not required to provide service on recognized Federal holidays established by Federal law (5 U.S.C. 6103). A schedule of the 2015 recognized holidays can be found at http://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/snow-dismissal-procedures/federal-holidays/#url=2015.

1.10. DOCUMENTATION AND RECORDS.

All documentation, records, and schedules as described in the PWS that are the responsibility of the contractor become the property of Reclamation. The contractor shall turn over such documentation to the CO upon completion or termination of the contract. All records are subject http://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/snow-dismissal-procedures/federal-holidays/#url=2015 http://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/snow-dismissal-procedures/federal-holidays/#url=2015

C - 7 to the Freedom of Information and Privacy Acts. As such, the Government will handle any requests for release of any records accordingly.

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2. SECTION C-2

DEFINITIONS

2.1. STANDARD DEFINITIONS.

2.1.1. Acceptable Quality Level (AQL). The number of defects or maximum percentage of defects that may occur before the Government will affect the price computation system in accordance with the Performance Requirements Summary Table and the Inspection of Services Clause. An AQL does not allow a contractor to knowingly offer defective services, but limits reduced payments to circumstances in which defective performance results in a measurable reduction in the value of services rendered.

2.1.2. As Directed, As Required, As Permitted, Approval, Acceptance. Terms that indicate that direction, requirement, permission, approval or acceptance by the CO are intended unless stated otherwise.

2.1.3. Contract Discrepancy Report. A formal letter produced by the CO upon receipt of a Quality

Assurance Surveillance Checklist that documents defective services are being provided by the contractor.

2.1.4. Contracting Officer (CO). A duly appointed person with the authority to enter into, administer or terminate contracts, and to make findings and determinations on behalf of the United States Government. This is the only individual authorized to change the contract or any of the requirements stated herein.

2.1.5. Contractor. The individual, partnership, company or corporation responsible for the duties and responsibilities under the contract. The term also covers requirements for any subcontractor. The contractor is ultimately responsible for ensuring that all subcontractors comply with the terms and conditions of the contract.

2.1.6. Deficiency. A shortcoming in the quality or state of services performed.

2.1.7. Defective Service. A unit of service which contains one or more defects, or non-conformance with specified requirements.

2.1.8. Documentation Review. A method of surveillance that may be used in the administration of Reclamation’s Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan. Under this method, documentation supplied to and/or produced by the contractor is audited by Reclamation.

2.1.9. Emergency / Special Event(s). Any unforeseen circumstance or combination of circumstances that requires immediate attention.

2.1.10. Inspection. The critical examination of a facility, system or procedure to discover and remedy discrepancies and inefficiencies.

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2.1.11. Integrated Pest Management. For the purposes of this contract, integrated pest management (IPM) is the practice of utilizing a range of different approaches, including preventative, chemical, cultural, biological, and/or mechanical, to control noxious weeds in an environmentally sensitive, cost effective manner.

2.1.12. Invasive Plant Species. Any plant species that is not only noxious but also not native on the area where they are growing. Additionally, these plant species may be identified weed species that Reclamation does not desire to be present on the area where they are growing.

2.1.13. Major Deficiency. Any service feature which would cause the contractor to be determined unacceptable.

2.1.14. Non-Target Species. Any plant species that is not targeted for treatment or control.

2.1.15. Nuisance Weed or Plant. Any native or non-native plant species that Reclamation does not desire to be present on the area where the plants or weeds are growing.

2.1.16. Noxious Weed. Any plant designated by a Federal, State, or county government as injurious to public health, agriculture, recreation, wildlife, or property.

2.1.17. Performance Requirements. Tasks to be performed by the contractor.

2.1.18. Performance Requirements Summary Table (PRST). An outline of contract requirements that identifies the key service outputs of the contract that will be inspected or surveyed by Reclamation, and related performance standards and method(s) of performance assessment and surveillance.

2.1.19. Performance Standard. The desired results, expressed by Reclamation, expected from performance of contract services, to satisfy the requirement.

2.1.20. Periodic Surveillance. A method of surveillance the Government may use in the administration of Reclamation’s Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan. Under this method, Reclamation assumes receipt of acceptable performance based on acceptable monitoring results of a given percentage or number of scheduled assessments. The Government plans these assessments at specific intervals or dates.

2.1.21. Quality Assurance. Those actions taken by Reclamation to ensure services meet the requirements established in the PWS.

2.1.22. Quality Assurance Evaluator (QAE). A Reclamation employee designated by the CO with authority to act within the scope of the delegated authority, including but not limited to, the surveillance and inspection of the contractor’s performance.

2.1.23. Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). An organized, written, “living” document outlining Reclamation’s methodology for monitoring contractor performance.

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2.1.24. Quality Control. Those actions taken by a contractor to ensure that contractor performance meets the requirements of the contract.

2.1.25. Quality Control Plan (QCP). An organized, written document outlining the contractor’s methodology for ensuring contractor performance.

2.1.26. Weed-Free Areas. Specified areas that Reclamation has identified for the contractor to maintain as free of any noxious, invasive, or nuisance weeds.

2.1.27. Vegetation-Free Areas. Areas that Reclamation has identified for the contractor to maintain as free of any vegetation. Vegetation includes grasses, forbs, weeds, brush, and any other vegetation. Careful consideration shall be towards any trees that may be near these designated areas (See Appendix B) to ensure that the trees are not affected by the treatment used by the contractor.

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3. SECTION C-3

GOVERNMENT-FURNISHED REQUIREMENTS

3.1. GENERAL.

The Government shall provide, without cost, the facilities, equipment, materials, and information listed below. The contractor shall be liable for any loss or damage to Government property while in their possession, and shall be responsible for any damage to Government buildings or equipment occurring because of contract performance. The contractor shall understand that in the performance of the contract, the contractor is an independent contractor and not an agent or employee of the United States Federal Government.

3.2. SITE VISIT.

Reclamation strongly urges offerors to inspect the site where offerors are to perform the required services, and to satisfy themselves regarding all general and local conditions that may affect the cost of performance. In no event shall failure to inspect the site constitute grounds for a claim after award.

Offerors desiring to inspect the site where services are to be performed shall arrange a site visit with Michael Hilliard by calling 406-759-5080. Reclamation will coordinate site visits Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., holidays excluded. Offerors shall arrange a site visit no later than 5 working days prior to the date designated for quote response.

3.3. POST AWARD CONFERENCE.

In accordance with Reclamation Clause WBR 1452.242-80, incorporated under Section G, the Government will hold a post award conference within 10 calendar days after award of the contract and prior to the beginning of any onsite work. The purpose of the post award conference is to review the contract, the work to be performed, establish safety requirements and procedures, and to clarify the work areas.

The contractor’s administration personnel shall attend the conference. The Government will hold the conference at the Marias Milk Rivers Division Office, which is located at 27 First Street in Chester, Montana.

3.4. PERFORMANCE EVALUATION MEETINGS.

The contractor’s administration personnel may be required to meet with the QAE, as deemed necessary, to discuss the contractor’s performance, to include actual or potential problems. All parties shall make a mutual good faith effort to resolve any issues. All parties to the discussion shall review and sign written minutes of the meeting. Should the contractor not concur with the minutes, the contractor shall state any areas of non-concurrence in writing to the CO within seven business days of receipt of the minutes. Whenever the CO issues a Contract Discrepancy Report, the QAE will hold a meeting if the contractor requests such a meeting.

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4. SECTION C-4

CONTRACTOR FURNISHED REQUIREMENTS.

4.1. GENERAL.

Except for those items or services specifically stated to be Government furnished in Section C-3, the contractor shall furnish everything (equipment, materials, supplies, incidentals, etc.) required to perform the tasks identified in this PWS.

All chemical treatment equipment used in the performance of the contract shall be of the type and durability used for pesticide applications. The contractor shall maintain all nozzles on application equipment in a clean and fully functional condition for the duration of the spray project. The contractor shall maintain equipment, including fittings and tank lids, used for transportation, storage and application of pesticide mixes in leak-proof condition. The contractor shall provide all security, storage, and maintenance for their chemicals and equipment.

4.2. GENERAL WORK PLAN.

The contractor shall provide a written work plan along with their offer. The General Work Plan shall be an orderly, specific, and complete document in every detail. It shall be presented in a manner which allows it to “stand alone” without the need to reference other documents. It should describe the capability of the contractor’s organization to complete this project and demonstrate a thorough understanding of the PWS.

At a minimum, the written work plan shall address each of the areas specified below. To assist in the uniform evaluation of quotations, the contractor shall utilize the following format in preparing the General Work Plan.

• Contractor’s Authority - The contractor’s ability to address the requirements of Section C 1.3.1.

• Technical Approach Proposed to Accomplish the PWS - The contractor’s methods, procedures, and equipment:

Contain detailed explanations of proposed treatment methods to be performed in order to complete the work. Repeating the PWS without elaborating on the specific tasks to be performed is unacceptable.

Contain a specific statement of any problems anticipated in performing or accomplishing the work and methods or techniques which are proposed to solve the problems.

Contain an anticipated schedule for completed the work, including what treatment methods will be performed during each option period.

Contain a summary table that addresses noxious weed control. At a minimum, the table shall address weed species, treatment methods, years treated, and anticipated results.

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• Quality Control Inspection Records - A template of inspection records that will be used by the contractor that will evidence how the contractor will document that work is completed.

• Contractor’s Commitment to Consider Environmentally Preferable Products - Reclamation must comply with Executive Order 13423, Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy and Transportation Management and the FAR to consider environmentally preferable products to the extent feasible, consistent with price, performance, availability and safety conditions. As defined in Executive Order 13423, environmentally preferable products and services have a reduced impact on the environment and human health when compared to similar products that serve the same purpose. Therefore, the described methods, procedures, and equipment shall present the lowest potential hazard to humans and the environment.

It is desirable that the contractor supply the greatest number of environmentally preferable products without jeopardizing the intended end use or detracting from the overall quality of services provided under the contract.

Contractors can find more information about the Environmentally Preferable Program by visiting http://www.epa.gov/epp/.

4.3. COMPANY EXPERIENCE.

Company experience is an objective criterion that determines whether the contractor has or has not performed similar work. Therefore, the contractor shall furnish a list (no more than five) of Federal, State, local government or commercial projects similar in scope, complexity, and magnitude to the work required under this solicitation that the contractor has completed within the last three years. These projects must clearly demonstrate the contractor’s successful ability to accomplish projects in a timely and satisfactory manner. If an offeror intends to utilize subcontractors to perform any of the major components of work, all of the above information must be provided for each proposed subcontractor.

The “Company Experience Reference List” included in Section J of this RFQ is supplied as a recommended template for this information. At a minimum, the contractor must provide the following information for each project:

• Name and location of project.

• Description of work.

• Note whether or not offeror was the prime contractor and what portion of the work was performed by the offeror and what portion was performed by subcontractors.

• Original completion time and date, and actual dates and duration for each project

(including modifications).

• Initial contract amount and final contract amount (including modifications).

• Name, address and phone number of CO/owner/COR/point of contact who may verify information for this project.

• Any problems encountered in performance of the work and corrective actions taken.

http://www.epa.gov/epp/

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The greater the extent to which the offeror can demonstrate successful completion of projects similar in size and complexity to that required under this solicitation, the more favorably the quotation will be rated. The Government will not evaluate references with incorrect or missing phone numbers and contact names, which may potentially result in a less favorable rating of the contractor’s offer.

4.4. PAST PERFORMANCE.

Past performance is a subjective criterion that determines how well the contractor has performed similar work. Therefore, the Government will use the reference information provided under company experience to aid in the determination of past performance information.

Additionally, contractors are strongly encouraged to have a “Past Performance Questionnaire,” contained in Section J of this RFQ, completed by at least 3 of the contractor’s previous customers. As it is a determining evaluation factor, offerors are strongly encouraged to inform previous customers of the importance of the timely submittal of the questionnaire. It is the offeror’s responsibility to ensure that the Government receives the recommended questionnaires by the time and date specified in the solicitation for Receipt of Quotations. Past Performance Questionnaires received after the time and date specified in the solicitation for Receipt of Quotations may not be evaluated; potentially resulting in a less favorable rating of the contractor’s offer. If an offeror intends on utilizing subcontractors to perform any of the work beyond supplying materials, PPQs shall be submitted on behalf of each proposed subcontractor.

The Government may also use past performance information obtained from other than the sources identified by the offeror. Information obtained from the Past Performance Information Retrieval System (PPIRS) database located at http://www.ppirs.gov is one of the sources that will be utilized. PPIRS functions as the central warehouse for performance assessment reports received from several Federal performance information collection systems and is sponsored by the DOD E-Business Office and administered by the Naval Sea Logistics Center Detachment Portsmouth.

In accordance with FAR Part 15.305, in the case of an offeror without a record of relevant past performance or for whom information on past performance is not available, the offeror may not be evaluated favorably or unfavorably on the past performance evaluation factor.

4.5. PRICE.

The contractor shall not include any allowance for contingencies that cover increased costs for adjustments contained in FAR Clause 52.222-43, Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Act--Price Adjustment (Multiple Year and Option Contract).

The contractor shall price the four option-year periods by assuming the minimum hourly wages and fringe benefits established by the Administrator, Wage and Hour Division, U.S. Department of Labor, for the base period of performance would equally apply to the four option periods. The Government has incorporated the base period minimum wage rates and fringe benefits in Section J.

http://www.ppirs.gov/

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If Reclamation exercises any option periods, the CO will furnish updated wage determinations at the beginning of each renewal option period to the contractor. The contractor shall be responsible for paying employees under this purchase order the required minimum monetary wages and fringe benefits. Additionally, the contractor shall notify the CO of any claimed increase in the purchase order price, contract unit price, or fixed hourly labor rates within 30 days after received the new wage determination. Such notice shall contain a statement of the amount claimed and any relevant supporting data, including payroll records that reflect the contractor's actual increase or decrease in applicable wages and fringe benefits. Any adjustment will be limited to increases or decreases in wages and fringe benefits and the accompanying increases or decreases in social security and unemployment taxes and workers’ compensation insurance, but shall not include any amount for general and administrative costs, overhead, or profit.

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5. SECTION C-5

SPECIFIC TASKS / SERVICES REQUIRED

5.1. GENERAL.

The contractor shall provide experienced and qualified professional personnel to provide the services to include, but not limited to the tasks identified below. As previously indicated, the contractor must recognize that the timely and accurate performance of these services is a vital and mandatory requirement of the contract. Throughout the life of the contract, the contractor is encouraged to seek and incorporate innovative ways of performing these services in the most economical and efficient manner.

The contractor shall be able to identify target species in all stages of development and distinguish between noxious, invasive, nuisance, and non-target species.

The contractor shall utilize IPM practices to address and prioritize noxious weed control.

If the contractor intends to use chemical treatment methods, the following services shall be performed at each facility listed in this PWS:

All spraying shall avoid all water surfaces. The contractor shall be responsible for damage to non-target vegetation.

The contractor shall perform all work necessary to complete application of pesticide and surfactant in accordance with all federal, state and local laws and regulations, the detailed specifications of this solicitation, the pesticide labels and any supplemental product labels.

Pesticide and product application shall be in accordance with Montana Pesticide Applicator license requirements. The contractor shall conduct the operation as not to interfere with or endanger the ordinary use of structures, roads, utilities, and other facilities.

All product containers shall be removed from Reclamation facilities by the contractor and shall be disposed of according to federal and state law.

No aerial spraying shall be permitted under the contract unless authorized in writing by the Contracting Officer.

The contractor shall coordinate with Reclamation and other entities to utilize IPM methods to maximize noxious weed control. Strategies for noxious weed control may vary from eradication of small infestations of new invaders to containment of large, well established infestations.

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5.2. CONSTRAINTS.

The contractor shall ensure all equipment moved onto Reclamation land is free of soil, seeds, vegetative matter, and other debris that could contain or hold noxious weed seed. Reclamation may request inspection of equipment prior to equipment mobilization. Reclamation’s cleaning and inspection manual can be found online at:

http://www.usbr.gov/mussels/prevention/docs/EquipmentInspectionandCleaningManual2012.pdf

The contractor’s methods, procedures, and equipment shall moderate the amount of environmental impacts on non-target species; therefore, no aerial spraying is allowed unless authorized in writing from the Contracting Officer.

Reclamation prohibits all Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) use on federal lands except with written permission from the Agency and only in certain circumstances that are in the best interest of the Government. Reclamation may allow OHV access to large areas of noxious weeds to accomplish the Agency’s goals, but may not all OHV access to small areas of noxious weeds. The contractor shall be responsible for finding alternative means, which may include backpack sprayers, boat access, all-terrain vehicles, etc.

5.3. PERFORMANCE CRITERIA.

The QAE will document acceptable and unacceptable contract performance. When the QAE considers the contractor's performance to be unsatisfactory, the QAE will report the information to the CO along with the recommendation of any applicable payment deductions.

The CO may require the contractor to explain, in writing, the cause of the poor performance, any corrective actions the Contractor has already taken to obtain an acceptable level, and any future corrective actions the Contractor will utilize to prevent unacceptable performance. Unacceptable performance may result in payment deductions as specified in Section C-5.10.

5.4. TASK NO. 1 - NOXIOUS SPECIES MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES ON DESIGNATED

LANDS IN LIBERTY COUNTY, MONTANA.

5.4.1. Description. The contractor shall treat noxious weeds in accordance with State and Federal law for lands surrounding Lake Elwell and Tiber Dam and Dike in Liberty County. There are approximately 500 acres of noxious weeds within approximately 15,000 acres of Reclamation land surrounding Tiber Reservoir and approximately 570 acres located in the Sweet Grass Hills at the Reclamation owned Rock Quarry in Liberty County. See attached aerial images for designated vegetation-free areas and locations.

The contractor shall address all areas utilizing IPM practices as addressed in the General Work Plan. For those areas designated as requiring chemical treatment methods, the contractor shall treat infestations to accomplish acceptable coverage. Coverage is defined as the application of pesticides that result in plant wilt, discoloration or visible marker dye.

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For those areas designated as requiring other than chemical treatment methods, the contractor shall treat infestations as addressed in the General Work Plan. A written summary report of noxious weed control activities shall be provided to the CO and the QAE with the final invoice of each performance period.

5.4.2. Performance Standard. The contractor shall address all areas utilizing IPM methods as outlined in their General Work Plan.

For those areas designated as requiring chemical treatment methods, the following performance standards apply:

All areas shall be treated with the correct quantity of pesticide mixture as required by the manufacturers’ product labels and any supplemental labels.

The contractor shall treat infestations to accomplish acceptable coverage. Coverage is defined as application of pesticides that results in plant wilt, discoloration or visible marker dye.

The contractor is responsible for the effects of herbicide residue on non-target species as well as problems that could arise from drift of herbicide.

The contractor shall advise Reclamation of treated areas on a weekly basis to allow for the timely inspection of treatment areas.

The contractor shall furnish Commercial Pesticide Application Records for each treatment prior to submitting their invoice. The document shall contain factual information as per Montana Pesticide Application Record requirements that report at a minimum:

a. The name and address of the person for whom the pesticide was applied;

b. The location of the land or property where the pesticide was applied;

c. The acreage;

d. The year, month, day, and time the pesticide was applied;

e. The person or firm that applied the pesticide;

f. The name and…