RFQ 1240BK21Q0021 Wildlife Tree And Down Wood Creation.pdf

U.S. Forest Service

Region 6, Procurement & Property Services

WILDLIFE TREE AND DOWN WOOD CREATION

Solicitation Number: 1240BK21Q0021

Release Date: 29 January 2021

Quotes Due: 26 February 2021 at 1300 PST

Contracting Officer: Eric Oldenkamp (eric.oldenkamp@usda.gov)

Interested companies that wish to submit a quote must follow the instructions in the addendum of Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) provision 52.212-1, which is included in this solicitation.

Table of Contents

Standard Form 1449

Schedule of Items

Blanket Purchase Agreement Information

Contract Clauses

Statement of Work (SOW)

1.0 General Information

2.0 Definitions

3.0 Government-Furnished Property, Materials, and Services

4.0 Contractor-Furnished Items

5.0 Specific Tasks

6.0 Attachments, Exhibits, & Figures

Solicitation Provisions

FAR Provision 52.212-1 – Instructions to Offerors

FAR Provision 52.212-3 – Offeror Representations and Certifications

SEE ADDENDUMIS CHECKED

CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

CODE

FACILITYCODE

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER

OFFEROR

40BK

PORTLAND OR 97204-2829

STE 310

1220 SW 3RD AVE

USDA-FS CSA NORTHWEST 1

CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BYCODE

X

X

X

115310

SIZE STANDARD:

100.00 % FOR:SET ASIDE:UNRESTRICTED OR40BK

RFPIFB

10. THIS ACQUISITION ISCODE

RFQ

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

13b. RATING

NAICS:

SMALL BUSINESS

02/26/2021 1300 PS

01/29/2021

ERIC OLDENKAMP

(No collect calls)

INFORMATION CALL:

FOR SOLICITATION 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL TIMEb. TELEPHONE NUMBERa. NAME

4. ORDER NUMBER3. AWARD/ 6. SOLICITATION

1240BK21Q0021

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS 1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE OF

3OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

17a. CONTRACTOR/

15. DELIVER TO

PORTLAND OR 97204-2829

STE 310

1220 SW 3RD AVE

9. ISSUED BY

7.

2. CONTRACT NO.

EFFECTIVE DATE

$8.00

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW

ISSUE DATE

DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

11.

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13a.

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

8(A)

USDA-FS CSA NORTHWEST 1

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

X

XX

DATED . YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION (BLOCK 5),

INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE SET FORTH

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DELIVER

ARE

ARE

31c. DATE SIGNED

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA

31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY ADDITIONAL

SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED.

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

OFFER

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 2/2012)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT:

REF.

www.IPP.gov Company Name:

DUNS:

EMAIL:

Telephone No.:

SCHEDULE OF ITEMS

Item No. Description Unit Estimated Average Unit Price

0001 Saw Topping Tree

0002 High Girdling Tree

0003 Base Girdling Tree

0004 Inoculation Tree

0005 Cavity Creation Tree

0006 Tree Falling Tree

0007 Climb Without Treatment Due to Nest Structure Tree

0008 Red tree vole artificial nest installation Tree

0009 Remote camera installation Tree

0010 Artificial Cavity Tree

BLANKET PURCHASE AGREEMENT INFORMATION

for

Wildlife Tree and Down Wood Creation

1. Overview

The Federal Government will require the creation of structures suitable for cavity nesting wildlife, and to provide down woody material for wildlife or fish habitat improvements. The Forest Service (FS) project areas will include the Willamette, Siuslaw, Umpqua, and Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forests. The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) project area will include the Northwest Oregon District Office.

To acquire services, the U.S. Forest Service will award multiple Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPA) with qualified companies (BPA holders). BPAs are not contracts, and do not obligate any funds. The Government may offer a funded task order (also known as a BPA call) under this BPA for services, and the task order will become a contract once the BPA holder accepts the award. The Government is obligated only to the extent of authorized purchases actually made under the BPA.

The Government neither guarantees a minimum number of task orders, nor a minimum award amount.

The Contracting Officer administrating the BPAs (BPA CO) will review each annually to ensure that they are still beneficial to the Government.

2. Period of Performance

The BPA period of performance is from date of award to 1 January 2030. The Government may award additional BPA’s at any time during the period of performance. New BPA’s will have the same completion date as the BPA’s initially awarded.

3. Cancellation of BPA

Either party may cancel this BPA at any time with a written notice. The BPA holder’s cancelation notice shall be sent to the BPA CO. The BPA holder must still complete any active task orders.

4. Purchase Limitation

The aggregate dollar amount for individual task orders will not exceed the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (SAT). The SAT is defined in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 2.101.

5. Pricing

The BPA holder shall keep the BPA CO informed of changes to their unit pricing identified in this BPA’s Schedule of Items. The pricing is an average price assuming common fixed costs, variable costs, and profit to complete work under each line item. It is not binding, only pricing in an accepted task order is binding.

6. Incorporating Provisions, Clauses, & the Performance Work Statement (PWS)

Provisions, clauses, and the PWS contained in this BPA are incorporated into all competed and awarded task orders. The Contracting Officer that is competing a task order may choose to add provisions and/or clauses. They may also choose to add an addendum identifying changes to the PWS.

7. Placing Orders

Warranted Contracting Officers in the U.S. Federal Government may solicit and award task orders under this BPA within the limits of their authority. The Contracting Officer will issue a request for quotes (RFQ) to all BPA holders, which will include project locations, period of performance, schedule of items, added provisions/clauses, PWS changes, instructions of what to submit within the quote, evaluation factors (if using price and other factors), applicable wage determinations, and any other attachments. If price is the only evaluation factor, an award will be offered to the lowest priced quote. If price and other evaluation factors are considered, the award will be offered to the quoter that represents the best value. The Contracting Officer won’t notify unsuccessful quoters. BPA holders that submitted quotes may request information in accordance with FAR 13.106- 3(d). Awarded task orders will be firm-fixed-price contracts.

(End of Blanket Purchase Agreement Information)

CONTRACT CLAUSES

Full text clauses and provisions for the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Agriculture Acquisition Regulation (AGAR) may be accessed electronically at www.aquisition.gov.

THE FOLLOWING CLAUSE IS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:

FAR 52.212-4 -- Contract Terms and Conditions -- Commercial Items (Oct 2018)

THE FOLLOWING CLAUSES ARE ADDED AS AN ADDENDUM TO FAR CLAUSE 52.212-4, AND INCORPORATED

BY REFERENCE:

FAR 52.204-13 -- System for Award Management Maintenance (Oct 2018)

FAR 52.204-18 -- Commercial and Government Entity Code Maintenance (Aug 2020)

FAR 52.223-2 -- Affirmative Procurement of Biobased Products Under Service and Construction Contracts (Sep 2013)

FAR 52.223-17 -- Affirmative Procurement of EPA-Designated Items in Service and Construction Contracts (Aug 2018)

FAR 52.232-40 -- Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (Dec 2013)

FAR 52.237-2 – Protection of Government Buildings, Equipment, and Vegetation (Apr 1984)

THE FOLLOWING CLAUSE IS INCORPORATED IN FULL TEXT:

FAR 52.212-5 -- Contract Terms and Conditions Required to Implement Statutes or Executive Orders -- Commercial Items (Jan 2021)

(a) The Contractor shall comply with the following Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses, which are incorporated in this contract by reference, to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial items:

(1) 52.203-19, Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (JAN 2017) (section 743 of Division E, Title VII, of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (Pub. L. 113-235) and its successor provisions in subsequent appropriations acts (and as extended in continuing resolutions)).

(2) 52.204-23, Prohibition on Contracting for Hardware, Software, and Services Developed or Provided by Kaspersky Lab and Other Covered Entities (JUL 2018) (Section 1634 of Pub. L. 115-91).

(3) 52.204-25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (AUG

2020) (Section 889(a)(1)(A) of Pub. L. 115-232).

(4) 52.209-10, Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (NOV 2015).

(5) 52.233-3, Protest After Award (AUG 1996) (31 U.S.C. 3553).

(6) 52.233-4, Applicable Law for Breach of Contract Claim (OCT 2004) (Public Laws 108-77 and 108-78 ( 19 U.S.C. 3805 note)).

(b) The Contractor shall comply with the FAR clauses in this paragraph (b) that the Contracting Officer has indicated as being incorporated in this contract by reference to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial items:

[Contracting Officer check as appropriate.]

[ ] (1) 52.203-6, Restrictions on Subcontractor Sales to the Government (JUNE 2020), with Alternate I (OCT

1995) (41 U.S.C. 4704 and 10 U.S.C. 2402).

[ ] (2) 52.203-13, Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (JUN 2020) (41 U.S.C. 3509)).

[ ] (3) 52.203-15, Whistleblower Protections under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (JUN 2010) (Section 1553 of Pub. L. 111-5). (Applies to contracts funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.)

[X] (4) 52.204-10, Reporting Executive Compensation and First-Tier Subcontract Awards (JUN 2020) (Pub. L. 109-282) ( 31 U.S.C. 6101 note).

[ ] (5) [Reserved].

[ ] (6) 52.204-14, Service Contract Reporting Requirements (OCT 2016) (Pub. L. 111-117, section 743 of Div. C).

[ ] (7) 52.204-15, Service Contract Reporting Requirements for Indefinite-Delivery Contracts (OCT 2016) (Pub. L. 111-117, section 743 of Div. C).

[X] (8) 52.209-6, Protecting the Government’s Interest When Subcontracting with Contractors Debarred, Suspended, or Proposed for Debarment. (JUN 2020) (31 U.S.C. 6101 note).

[ ] (9) 52.209-9, Updates of Publicly Available Information Regarding Responsibility Matters (OCT 2018) (41 U.S.C. 2313).

[ ] (10) [Reserved].

[ ] (11) (i) 52.219-3, Notice of HUBZone Set-Aside or Sole-Source Award (MAR 2020) (15 U.S.C. 657a).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of 52.219-3.

[ ] (12) (i) 52.219-4, Notice of Price Evaluation Preference for HUBZone Small Business Concerns (MAR 2020) (if the offeror elects to waive the preference, it shall so indicate in its offer) (15 U.S.C. 657a).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of 52.219-4.

[ ] (13) [Reserved]

[X] (14) (i) 52.219-6, Notice of Total Small Business Set-Aside (NOV 2020) (15 U.S.C. 644).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of 52.219-6.

[ ] (15) (i) 52.219-7, Notice of Partial Small Business Set-Aside (NOV 2020) (15 U.S.C. 644).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of 52.219-7.

[ ] (16) 52.219-8, Utilization of Small Business Concerns (OCT 2018) (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(2) and (3)).

[ ] (17) (i) 52.219-9, Small Business Subcontracting Plan (JUN 2020) (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(4)).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (NOV 2016) of 52.219-9.

[ ] (iii) Alternate II (NOV 2016) of 52.219-9.

[ ] (iv) Alternate III (JUN 2020) of 52.219-9.

[ ] (v) Alternate IV (JUN 2020) of 52.219-9

[ ] (18) (i) 52.219-13, Notice of Set-Aside of Orders (MAR 2020) (15 U.S.C. 644(r)).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of 52.219-13.

[ ] (19) 52.219-14, Limitations on Subcontracting (MAR 2020) (15 U.S.C. 637(a)(14)).

[ ] (20) 52.219-16, Liquidated Damages-Subcontracting Plan (JAN 1999) (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(4)(F)(i)).

[ ] (21) 52.219-27, Notice of Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Set-Aside (MAR 2020) (15 U.S.C. 657f).

[X] (22) (i) 52.219-28, Post Award Small Business Program Rerepresentation (NOV 2020) (15 U.S.C. 632(a)(2)).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of 52.219-28.

[ ] (23) 52.219-29, Notice of Set-Aside for, or Sole Source Award to, Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business Concerns (MAR 2020) (15 U.S.C. 637(m)).

[ ] (24) 52.219-30, Notice of Set-Aside for, or Sole Source Award to, Women-Owned Small Business Concerns Eligible Under the Women-Owned Small Business Program (Mar2020) (15 U.S.C. 637(m)).

[ ] (25) 52.219-32, Orders Issued Directly Under Small Business Reserves (MAR 2020) (15 U.S.C. 644(r)).

[ ] (26) 52.219-33, Nonmanufacturer Rule (MAR 2020) (15U.S.C. 637(a)(17)).

[X] (27) 52.222-3, Convict Labor (JUN 2003) (E.O.11755).

[ ] (28) 52.222-19, Child Labor-Cooperation with Authorities and Remedies (JAN2020) (E.O.13126).

[X] (29) 52.222-21, Prohibition of Segregated Facilities (APR 2015).

[X] (30) (i) 52.222-26, Equal Opportunity (SEP 2016) (E.O.11246).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (FEB 1999) of 52.222-26.

[ ] (31) (i) 52.222-35, Equal Opportunity for Veterans (JUN 2020) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (JUL 2014) of 52.222-35.

[ ] (32) (i) 52.222-36, Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (JUN 2020) (29 U.S.C. 793).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (JUL 2014) of 52.222-36.

[X] (33) 52.222-37, Employment Reports on Veterans (JUN 2020) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

[ ] (34) 52.222-40, Notification of Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act (DEC 2010) (E.O. 13496).

[X] (35) (i) 52.222-50, Combating Trafficking in Persons (OCT 2020) (22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O. 13627).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (MAR 2015) of 52.222-50 (22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O. 13627).

[ ] (36) 52.222-54, Employment Eligibility Verification (OCT 2015). (Executive Order 12989). (Not applicable to the acquisition of commercially available off-the-shelf items or certain other types of commercial items as prescribed in 22.1803.)

[ ] (37) (i) 52.223-9, Estimate of Percentage of Recovered Material Content for EPA–Designated Items (May 2008) ( 42 U.S.C. 6962(c)(3)(A)(ii)). (Not applicable to the acquisition of commercially available off-the-shelf items.)

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (MAY 2008) of 52.223-9 (42 U.S.C. 6962(i)(2)(C)). (Not applicable to the acquisition of commercially available off-the-shelf items.)

[ ] (38) 52.223-11, Ozone-Depleting Substances and High Global Warming Potential Hydrofluorocarbons (Jun 2016) (E.O.

13693).

[ ] (39) 52.223-12, Maintenance, Service, Repair, or Disposal of Refrigeration Equipment and Air Conditioners (JUN 2016) (E.O.

13693).

[ ] (40) (i) 52.223-13, Acquisition of EPEAT®-Registered Imaging Equipment (JUN 2014) (E.O.s 13423 and 13514).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (OCT 2015) of 52.223-13.

[ ] (41) (i) 52.223-14, Acquisition of EPEAT®-Registered Televisions (JUN 2014) (E.O.s 13423 and 13514).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (Jun2014) of 52.223-14.

[ ] (42) 52.223-15, Energy Efficiency in Energy-Consuming Products (MAY 2020) (42 U.S.C. 8259b).

[ ] (43) (i) 52.223-16, Acquisition of EPEAT®-Registered Personal Computer Products (OCT 2015) (E.O.s 13423 and 13514).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (JUN 2014) of 52.223-16.

[ ] (44) 52.223-18, Encouraging Contractor Policies to Ban Text Messaging While Driving (JUN 2020) (E.O. 13513).

[ ] (45) 52.223-20, Aerosols (JUN 2016) (E.O. 13693).

[ ] (46) 52.223-21, Foams (Jun2016) (E.O. 13693).

[ ] (47) (i) 52.224-3 Privacy Training (JAN 2017) (5 U.S.C. 552 a).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (JAN 2017) of 52.224-3.

[ ] (48) 52.225-1, Buy American-Supplies (JAN2021) (41 U.S.C. chapter 83).

[ ] (49) (i) 52.225-3, Buy American-Free Trade Agreements-Israeli Trade Act (JAN 2021)(41 U.S.C.chapter83, 19 U.S.C. 3301 note, 19 U.S.C. 2112 note, 19 U.S.C. 3805 note, 19 U.S.C. 4001 note, Pub. L. 103-182, 108-77, 108-78, 108-286, 108-302, 109-53, 109-169, 109-283, 110-138, 112-41, 112-42, and 112-43.

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (JAN 2021) of 52.225-3.

[ ] (iii) Alternate II (JAN 2021) of 52.225-3.

[ ] (iv) Alternate III (JAN 2021) of 52.225-3.

[ ] (50) 52.225-5, Trade Agreements (OCT 2019) (19 U.S.C. 2501, et seq., 19 U.S.C. 3301 note).

[ ] (51) 52.225-13, Restrictions on Certain Foreign Purchases (JUN 2008) (E.O.’s, proclamations, and statutes administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Department of the Treasury).

[ ] (52) 52.225-26, Contractors Performing Private Security Functions Outside the United States (Oct 2016) (Section 862, as amended, of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008; 10 U.S.C. 2302Note).

[ ] (53) 52.226-4, Notice of Disaster or Emergency Area Set-Aside (Nov2007) (42 U.S.C. 5150).

[ ] (54) 52.226-5, Restrictions on Subcontracting Outside Disaster or Emergency Area (Nov2007) (42 U.S.C. 5150).

[ ] (55) 52.229-12, Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements (JUN 2020).

[ ] (56) 52.232-29, Terms for Financing of Purchases of Commercial Items (FEB 2002) (41 U.S.C. 4505, 10 U.S.C. 2307(f)).

[ ] (57) 52.232-30, Installment Payments for Commercial Items (Jan 2017) (41 U.S.C. 4505, 10 U.S.C. 2307(f)).

[ ] (58) 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer-System for Award Management (OCT2018) (31 U.S.C. 3332).

[ ] (59) 52.232-34, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer-Other than System for Award Management (Jul 2013) (31 U.S.C. 3332).

[ ] (60) 52.232-36, Payment by Third Party (MAY 2014) (31 U.S.C. 3332).

[ ] (61) 52.239-1, Privacy or Security Safeguards (AUG 1996) (5 U.S.C. 552a).

[ ] (62) 52.242-5, Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (JAN 2017) (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(13)).

[ ] (63) (i) 52.247-64, Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (FEB

2006) (46 U.S.C. Appx. 1241(b) and 10 U.S.C. 2631).

[ ] (ii) Alternate I (APR 2003) of 52.247-64.

[ ] (iii) Alternate II (FEB 2006) of 52.247-64.

(c) The Contractor shall comply with the FAR clauses in this paragraph (c), applicable to commercial services, that the Contracting Officer has indicated as being incorporated in this contract by reference to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial items:

[Contracting Officer check as appropriate.]

[X] (1) 52.222-41, Service Contract Labor Standards (AUG 2018) (41 U.S.C. chapter67).

[X] (2) 52.222-42, Statement of Equivalent Rates for Federal Hires (MAY 2014) (29 U.S.C. 206 and 41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[ ] (3) 52.222-43, Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards-Price Adjustment (Multiple Year and Option Contracts) (AUG 2018) (29 U.S.C. 206 and 41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[ ] (4) 52.222-44, Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards-Price Adjustment (May 2014) ( 29U.S.C.206 and 41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[ ] (5) 52.222-51, Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Maintenance, Calibration, or Repair of Certain Equipment-Requirements (May 2014) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[ ] (6) 52.222-53, Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Certain Services- Requirements (MAY 2014) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[X] (7) 52.222-55, Minimum Wages Under Executive Order 13658 (NOV 2020).

[X] (8) 52.222-62, Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (JAN 2017) (E.O. 13706).

[ ] (9) 52.226-6, Promoting Excess Food Donation to Nonprofit Organizations (Jun 2020) (42 U.S.C. 1792).

(d) Comptroller General Examination of Record. The Contractor shall comply with the provisions of this paragraph (d) if this contract was awarded using other than sealed bid, is in excess of the simplified acquisition threshold, as defined in FAR 2.101, on the date of award of this contract, and does not contain the clause at 52.215-2, Audit and Records-Negotiation.

(1) The Comptroller General of the United States, or an authorized representative of the Comptroller General, shall have access to and right to examine any of the Contractor’s directly pertinent records involving transactions related to this contract.

(2) The Contractor shall make available at its offices at all reasonable times the records, materials, and other evidence for examination, audit, or reproduction, until 3 years after final payment under this contract or for any shorter period specified in FAR subpart 4.7, Contractor Records Retention, of the other clauses of this contract. If this contract is completely or partially terminated, the records relating to the work terminated shall be made available for 3 years after any resulting final termination settlement. Records relating to appeals under the disputes clause or to litigation or the settlement of claims arising under or relating to this contract shall be made available until such appeals, litigation, or claims are finally resolved.

(3) As used in this clause, records include books, documents, accounting procedures and practices, and other data, regardless of type and regardless of form. This does not require the Contractor to create or maintain any record that the Contractor does not maintain in the ordinary course of business or pursuant to a provision of law.

(e)

(1) Notwithstanding the requirements of the clauses in paragraphs (a), (b), (c), and (d) of this clause, the Contractor is not required to flow down any FAR clause, other than those in this paragraph (e)(1) in a subcontract for commercial items. Unless otherwise indicated below, the extent of the flow down shall be as required by the clause-

(i) 52.203-13, Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (JUN 2020) (41 U.S.C. 3509).

(ii) 52.203-19, Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (Jan 2017) (section 743 of Division E, Title VII, of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (Pub. L. 113-235) and its successor provisions in subsequent appropriations acts (and as extended in continuing resolutions)).

(iii) 52.204-23, Prohibition on Contracting for Hardware, Software, and Services Developed or Provided by Kaspersky Lab and Other Covered Entities (JUL 2018) (Section 1634 of Pub. L. 115-91).

(iv) 52.204-25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (AUG 2020) (Section 889(a)(1)(A) of Pub. L. 115-232).

(v) 52.219-8, Utilization of Small Business Concerns (OCT 2018) (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(2) and (3)), in all subcontracts that offer further subcontracting opportunities. If the subcontract (except subcontracts to small business concerns) exceeds the applicable threshold specified in FAR 19.702(a) on the date of subcontract award, the subcontractor must include 52.219-8 in lower tier subcontracts that offer subcontracting opportunities.

(vi) 52.222-21, Prohibition of Segregated Facilities (APR 2015).

(vii) 52.222-26, Equal Opportunity (SEP 2015) (E.O.11246).

(viii) 52.222-35, Equal Opportunity for Veterans (JUN 2020) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

(ix) 52.222-36, Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (JUN 2020) (29 U.S.C. 793).

(x) 52.222-37, Employment Reports on Veterans (JUN 2020) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

(xi) 52.222-40, Notification of Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act (DEC 2010) (E.O. 13496). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph (f) of FAR clause 52.222-40.

(xii) 52.222-41, Service Contract Labor Standards (AUG 2018) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

(xiii)

(A) 52.222-50, Combating Trafficking in Persons (OCT 2020) (22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O 13627).

(B) Alternate I (MAR 2015) of 52.222-50 (22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O. 13627).

(xiv) 52.222-51, Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Maintenance, Calibration, or Repair of Certain Equipment-Requirements (May2014) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

(xv) 52.222-53, Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Certain Services- Requirements (MAY 2014) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

(xvi) 52.222-54, Employment Eligibility Verification (OCT 2015) (E.O. 12989).

(xvii) 52.222-55, Minimum Wages Under Executive Order 13658 (NOV 2020).

(xviii) 52.222-62, Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (JAN 2017) (E.O. 13706).

(xix)

(A) 52.224-3, Privacy Training (Jan 2017) (5 U.S.C. 552a).

(B) Alternate I (JAN 2017) of 52.224-3.

(xx) 52.225-26, Contractors Performing Private Security Functions Outside the United States (OCT 2016) (Section 862, as amended, of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008; 10 U.S.C. 2302 Note).

(xxi) 52.226-6, Promoting Excess Food Donation to Nonprofit Organizations (JUN 2020) (42 U.S.C. 1792). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph (e) of FAR clause 52.226-6.

(xxii) 52.247-64, Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (FEB

2006) (46 U.S.C. Appx. 1241(b) and 10 U.S.C. 2631). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph (d) of FAR clause 52.247-64.

(2) While not required, the Contractor may include in its subcontracts for commercial items a minimal number of additional clauses necessary to satisfy its contractual obligations.

(End of clause)

STATEMENT OF WORK (SOW)

for

Wildlife Tree and Down Wood Creation

Task orders issued from this BPA are non-personal services. Services will include the creation of structures suitable for cavity nesting wildlife, and to provide down woody material for wildlife or fish habitat improvements. The Government shall neither supervise Contractor employees nor control the method by which the Contractor performs the required tasks. Under no circumstances shall the Government assign tasks to, or prepare work schedules for, individual Contractor employees.

1.0 SECTION 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 Description of Work

1.1.1 The purpose of this project is to create structures suitable for use by cavity nesting wildlife or to provide down woody material for wildlife or fish habitat improvements. Standing trees will be treated in a variety of methods to create live and dead wildlife trees or snags, or by creating coarse or large woody material by falling standing trees.

1.1.2 The Contractor shall, considering given resource objectives for the work unit, develop a plan of operation to accomplish objectives, organize, and direct all the equipment and personnel needed to fully accomplish the work. The Contractor shall furnish all technical expertise, labor, equipment, supervision, transportation, operating supplies and incidentals necessary, except those designated as Government furnished, to complete the work required.

1.1.3 Contractor shall select trees according to contract specifications.

1.1.4 Blasting is not allowed as a method of treatment on this contract.

1.1.5 Tree inoculation (Item 0004) using dowels containing stem decay requires Contractor to store, handle and use the provided inoculate dowels according to specifications.

1.1.6 Cavity Creation (Item 0005) treatments performed to the tree bole will accommodate the invasion of heart-rot fungus and treatments shall be distributed evenly throughout the project area.

1.1.7 The Contractor may use a choice of tools (chainsaw, auger, or other hand tools) unless otherwise specified.

1.1.8 Documentation and digital mapping using approved software shall be submitted to COR for inspection and approval.

1.1.9 Slash treatments are required on all methods if slash exceeds specifications (5.17).

1.1.10 Each task order will list specifics including when nest structure surveys are required, treatment heights, DBH ranges, live limb retention or removal, number of inoculated dowels to use, method of cavity creation, and/or combinations of treatments, and specific required documentation.

1.2 Location of Work

1.2.1 All work shall occur within the boundaries of the Willamette, Siuslaw, Umpqua, and Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forests, or the Northwest Oregon District Office of the BLM. Project area boundaries may not be physically identified on the ground.

Maps and photocopies of aerial photos of project areas will be provided by the Government. Electronic maps will be provided when available. Samples of project area maps for known sites will be available upon request.

1.3 Accessibility

1.3.1 Standard access is defined as (1) passable with a 2-wheel drive vehicle although a 4-wheel drive may sometimes be required, or (2) foot travel to the project area boundary is less than ¼ mile. The cost of standard access is to be included in the unit price.

1.3.2 If standard access to a project area becomes inaccessible due to snow, fallen trees, slide, or washout, and foot travel is more than ¼ mile to the project area boundary, additional payment will be based on the per mile cost identified on the schedule of items: one roundtrip for the crew, rounded to the nearest ¼ mile. Walk-in mileage begins at the ¼ mile mark and ends at the project area boundary.

1.3.3 Motor vehicles shall not operate off existing spur roads.

1.3.4 No vehicle shall by-pass any officially blocked road (barriers, locked gates, posted signs, rock/log/dirt, etc.) without approval of the Contracting Officer.

1.3.5 Some roads shown on aerial photos and project maps may not be accessible by vehicle. All roads may not appear on

Government provided maps. The Government assumes no obligation to do special maintenance to keep roads open. Some project area(s), may require access through locked gates. Contractor shall work with the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) to secure keys required for access through locked gates or when additional arrangements are required.

1.3.6 The Contractor shall obtain permission from private landowners before crossing private lands when attempting to access public lands. Private landowners may require deposits and/or fees for gate keys to access some project sites.

1.3.7 Locked gates restricting access will be noted on the project maps. Keys to locked Government gates will be issued to the

Contractor via a property transfer signed by the Contractor along with a road access permit (if applicable).

1.3.8 Use of either 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive vehicles on native surface roads is permitted only with approval of the COR.

1.4 Schedule

1.4.1 Before field work commences, the Contractor shall provide the COR a schedule detailing key milestones. At a minimum, the milestones shall include when work will begin in each project area, field work completion for each project area, and expected completion date. The Contractor shall keep the COR informed of changes to key milestones.

1.5 Safety

1.5.1 A general safety plan shall be developed by the Contractor, which complies with or exceeds OSHA standards. It shall describe safety procedures for crew safety. Emergency numbers and communications shall be described in the plan. The plan shall be provided to the COR before any work begins. This plan shall be presented and reviewed by all crew members before work begins, and be available to all crews at all sites during work periods. The plan shall also be available to the Government for inspection at any time.

1.5.2 In addition to the general Safety Plan, the Contractor shall have a site specific Communication/Safety/Emergency Plan. The site specific plan shall be a document giving location of operations, name and phone number of individuals to call in case of an emergency, phone number of nearest fire department, travel route(s) to project location(s), nearest hospital, and fire rescue and ambulance (EMS). If gate keys are needed, this document shall also include where they can be obtained. This plan shall be presented and reviewed by all crew members, and be available to all crews at all sites during work periods. The plan shall also be available to the Government for inspection at any time.

1.5.3 Each individual climber operating in the performance of this contract shall have final say as to the safety of each tree scheduled for climbing.

1.5.4 The Contractor shall be in compliance with the Oregon Administrative Rules, Chapter 437, Division 7, applicable tree climbing requirements. All State safety laws (OSHA) and safe climbing practices shall be followed. There shall be a minimum crew of two (2) with climbing capabilities who shall be in visible or audible signal distance with one another during all tree climbing activities.

1.5.5 Potential safety hazards:

a. Data and information furnished or referred to below is for the Contractor's information. The Government shall not be responsible for any interpretation of or conclusion drawn from the data or information by the Contractor. This list shall not be deemed to be all inclusive. The Contractor shall bear the sole responsibility for taking all appropriate actions necessary to prevent accidents and injuries to individuals at the worksite.

b. The following checked activities have been identified by the Government as potential safety hazards.

[X] Tree falling.

[X] Fall hazard from work heights exceeding six feet.

[ ] Traffic control on high-volume and/or high-speed and/or limited visibility roads.

[ ] Travel on decommissioned roads, i.e. roads with waterbars and other barriers [ ] Heavy equipment operation.

[X] Tree climbing and/or tower climbing.

[X] Fire hazards.

[X] Hazardous materials handling.

[ ] Electrical hazard.

[ ] Hydraulic and/or pneumatic and/or other high pressure hazards.

[ ] Mechanical hazards such as pulleys, springs, etc.

[X] Crossing streams-footing, fast water [X] Carrying heavy loads over steep ground [X] Other: uneven ground conditions

1.6 Contracting Officer's Representative (COR)

1.6.1 The Contracting Officer will issue a delegation letter identifying the COR, which will state the responsibilities and limitations of the COR. The COR monitors all technical aspects of the contract and assists in contract administration. The COR is authorized to perform the following functions: assure 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, monitor Contractor's performance, notifies both the Contracting Officer and Contractor of any deficiencies, coordinate availability of government furnished property, and provide site entry of Contractor personnel. The COR is not authorized to change any of the terms and conditions of the resulting contract.

1.7 Government Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan

1.7.1 The Government will periodically evaluate the Contractor’s performance by appointing a representative(s) to monitor performance to ensure services are received. The Contractor’s operations will be inspected by the COR for compliance of contract specifications and safety requirements once the documentation has been submitted. The Contractor shall provide a safe working environment for the Government. The COR will field inspect randomly, selecting a minimum sample of 10 percent of treated areas for each task order. A visual inspection will be performed on all documentation. The Government may inspect each task as completed, increase the number of quality control inspections, or decrease the number of quality control inspections if deemed appropriate. Each task order may include special inspection criteria, and tolerances for errors.

1.8 Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Species

1.8.1 The Government may direct the Contractor to stop all operations in the event that listed or proposed threatened or endangered plants or animals protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, or Federal candidate (Category 1 and 2), sensitive or state listed species, are present in or adjacent to the project area.

2.0 SECTION 2 - DEFINITIONS

2.1 Administrative Office - The Administrative Offices that may have personnel involved in the issuance of keys and permits;

and the inspection and acceptance of project work include the BLM Eugene and Salem District Offices and the Willamette, Umpqua and Siuslaw National Forest offices.

2.2 Bat Crevice/Flanges (exhibit 7) - A slash cut into the wood with a recessed area created above the slash.

2.3 Cambium - A layer of living cells between the outer bark and the inner wood of the tree.

2.4 Canopy gap - An area in a stand where trees are spaced such that a small opening exists in the overstory. An example of a canopy gap is a brush patch or a small wetland area within a stand.

2.5 Cavity - A concave depression or hollow in a tree. There are six types of cavities: cavity with front plate, cavity start, sap well, lightning blaze, bat crevice, and flange.

2.6 Cavity-Front Plate (figure 1) - An excavation on a standing tree created by removing a wedge of wood, gouging out a hollow, and then reattaching the wood plate with nails.

2.7 Cavity Start (figure 2) - An oblong hole cut into the tree bole.

2.8 Corridor - A linear opening in a thinned stand that is used to access treatment sites.

2.9 Co-dominate - Trees whose height and diameter is equal to the tallest, healthiest trees in the project area. Generally they are the tallest trees in the stand that form the canopy.

2.10 DBH - Diameter of the tree at breast height, measured at a point 4-1/2 feet above ground level measured from the uphill side of the tree.

2.11 Epicormic branches – branches developed on the bole of a tree from a dormant bud newly exposed to light and air.

Characteristics of epicormic branches include fan shaped branch clusters; the angle of insertion normally tangential to the main stem; the bark texture is often smooth and light gray similar to the bark of a young Douglas-fir tree often associated with dead or dying branches; and they have a smaller relative diameter than adjacent branches.

2.12 Furrow – A single cut through the cambium layer of a felled tree.

2.13 Girdling (figure 5) - A 12 inch band of bark and cambium layers removed completely from around the trunk of a tree so that the portion above the girdle dies. Cut into the bole 0.5 inch at both the top and bottom edges of the girdle.

2.14 Harvest Unit Boundary - A subdivision boundary. The outside edge of the area included within a harvest unit. These boundaries are generally flagged on the ground and included on sale area maps.

2.15 Inoculum/inoculated dowels – wooden dowels that are inoculated with stem decay for the purpose of spreading the stem decay from the dowel to the tree creating decay columns for cavity nesting birds.

2.16 Lightning Blaze (figure 4) - A vertical linear or spiraling scar extending through the cambium.

2.17 Limbing – Removal of live or dead branches.

2.18 Live limb – has live, green needles; originates in the pith of the main stem and grows out at a right angle. The original branches are as old as the part of the main stem they are attached to, and have rough, dark brown bark that matches the bark at the main stem in older trees.

2.19 Platform (figure 6) – nest platform furnished by Government and installed by contractor. Platform shall be attached 50-100’ high in a 25-35” dbh tree using spike nails.

2.20 Safety Guard - An individual who is experienced and equipped with communication systems and remains on the active project area for the purpose of providing the climber help and summoning assistance should it be needed. The safety guard shall also maintain watch over other situations as required.

2.21 Sap Wells (figure 3) - A cluster of six round or oval holes cut/drilled through the bark and cambium into the bole.

2.22 Seasonal Restrictions for Threatened & Endangered (T&E) Species – The period of time in which restrictions are placed on mechanical operations in areas where T&E species have been identified. Project areas affected will be listed on the Task Order with their restriction period.

2.23 Site - A point along a grid used to achieve distribution of treated trees. Sites are on the average 200 feet apart and may vary

+/- 50 feet, depending on tree density, roads, trails, etc. Also, a location along a harvest unit boundary, corridor, or transect which serves as a landmark to relocate treated trees.

2.24 Treated trees - Trees that are topped, girdled, inoculated, felled, or that have cavity structures created according to contract specifications.

2.25 Treatment Height – The point at which the highest treatment is located, measured in feet.

2.26 Tree ID number - A unique number assigned to each individual tree that has been treated.

2.27 Treatment records - A written list of tree identification (ID) numbers and pertinent treatment information.

2.28 Wildlife tree tag - A weather resistant painted metal or plastic sign approximately 4-6 inches by 4-6 inches designating a tree as reserved for wildlife. Tags will be provided by the Government.

3.0 SECTION 3 - GOVERNMENT-FURNISHED PROPERTY, MATERIALS, AND SERVICES

3.1 The Government will provide the following to the Contractor for use in the performance of the task order. The Contractor shall be liable for all loss or damage of Government-furnished property until completion and final acceptance of work required. Government-furnished property and materials will be available from the Government at the appropriate Administrative Office.

a. Project area maps

b. Photocopies of aerial photographs

c. Blank project maps (paper or electronic) for recording tree locations

d. Gate keys

e. Blank metal tags (flashers)

f. Wildlife Tree signs

g. Tree register form masters (Exhibits 13a thru d)

h. Numbered metal tags

i. Red Tree Vole Nest Tree and Nest Data Form #3 (Attachment A)

j. Blank fluorescent tags

k. PVC pipe (color coded for each fungi species)

l. Fungi inoculated dowels in up to four species (Phellinus pini, Fomitopsis cajanderi, Fomitosis pinicola and Stereum sanguinolentum).

m. Nest platforms/boxes and spikes

4.0 SECTION 4 - CONTRACTOR-FURNISHED ITEMS

4.1 The Contractor shall provide all supervision, labor, transportation, tools, materials and equipment required for the safe and timely completion of the project except as specifically noted under Section 3.0, Government-Furnished Property, Materials, and Services.

4.2 Contractor shall furnish the following items:

a. Diameter tape

b. Instruments to measure treatment heights

c. Compass

d. Drill - past experience has shown that battery-powered drills may not have sufficient power

e. Flagging, color designated on each task order

f. Aluminum nails 3 inches long

g. Orange paint to mark treated trees on specified task orders

h. GPS and appropriate software compatible with Agency systems

4.3 Communication devices including mobile phones shall be required for safety purposes when any contract work is being performed. No citizen band (CB) radios will be acceptable. Mobile phones or established radio nets may be necessary to call for help in case of an emergency. There are areas that are considered “dead zones” where communications are not available.

The Contractor is required to verify that their communication devices work for the project area, or in the vicinity of the project area prior to beginning work.

4.4 Crew Requirements: The Contractor shall keep the COR informed of crew location and provide weekly progress reports either verbally or in writing.

4.5 The Contractor shall not block roads or trails or obstruct traffic while performing contract requirements unless warranted by safety requirements. The Contractor shall provide sufficient warning (signs, safety guard, etc.) to insure public safety and meet Federal and State regulations. The Contractor shall be responsible for assuring that operations will not cause harm or injury to personnel, other users of the area, or non-target (landscape or wildlife) forest resources.

4.6 Use of Biobased Products

4.6.1 The Contractor shall utilize products and material made from biobased materials to the maximum extent possible without jeopardizing the intended end use or detracting form the overall quality delivered of the end user. All supplies and materials shall be of a type and quality that conform to applicable Federal Specifications and standards. All supplies and materials to be used in the performance of work described herein are subject to the approval of the Contracting Officer’s Representative.

4.6.2 The following is an example list of products that may be used in this contract for which biobased products are available. The list is not all inclusive. It is desirable that vendors be able to supply the greatest number of biobased products listed meeting the health and environmental specifications.

a. Chain and Cable Lubricants

b. Greases

c. Penetrating Lubricants

4.6.3 The Contractor shall comply with the provision of FAR 52.223-1, Biobased Product Certification, and clause FAR 52.223-2, Affirmative Procurement of Biobased Products Under Service and Construction Contracts.

4.6.4 Guide to minimum biobased content: http://www.BioPreferred.gov/BioPreferred/faces/pages/ProductCategories.xhtml

5.0 SECTION 5 - SPECIFIC TASKS

5.1 General tree selection criteria for wildlife tree and down wood creation shall be selected by the Contractor according to the following guidelines. The Government in some cases may designate trees to be treated, as specified on task orders.

5.1.1 Contractor selects & climbs trees according to OHSA.

5.1.2 Tree species selection shall be mostly Douglas-fir unless otherwise specified on task orders.

5.1.3 Trees with nest structures shall not be selected or treated. Climb without treatment due to nest structure – Item 0007 If survey is not indicated on the task order and a nest structure is found during climbing to treat a tree, the Contractor shall not treat the tree. The documented tree will be paid under Item 0007.

5.1.4 Any tree within a Riparian Reserve of 50 feet from a stream shall not be treated unless designated by a specific task order.

5.1.5 Trees on ridge tops that are susceptible to wind throw shall not be girdled.

5.1.6 Any tree with the following characteristics shall not be treated:

a. Existing broken tops (live or dead trees);

b. Multiple topped trees;

c. Spike topped trees;

d. Obvious Root Rot;

e. Mistletoe platforms;

f. Any tagged tree, Genetic tree, or designated research tree of any kind;

g. Cultural trees with historic scars, for example, Western red cedars with large surface scars where bark was intentionally stripped off;

h. Defects, fire-scars, or mechanical damage; or

i. Any trees that have been pruned unless designated on specific task orders.

5.1.7 Trees shall not be treated that are within the treatment height plus 40 feet of any open or unblocked roads or trails (minimum of 100 feet), unless designated by the Government.

5.1.8 Trees must be within unit boundaries, unless designated otherwise.

5.1.9 Selected trees shall be within the designated treatment heights and DBH ranges as specified in each task order.

5.2 Chainsaw Topping - Item 0001

5.2.1 Topping shall be completed with chainsaw.

5.2.2 Tree selection for topped trees shall consider all OSHA and safety precautions. If tree selection for topping is limited due to safety hazards i.e. area is full of stem decay, Contractor shall inform the Government immediately.

5.2.3 The tree tops shall be felled inside the unit boundaries. The COR may instruct the Contractor to directionally fall tops away from other specific areas.

5.2.4 Directionally fall tops to prevent damage to any existing snags.

5.2.5 Tree tops or limbs must be severed completely in such a manner that they are lying on the ground. No tops or limbs shall be left hung up in other trees or left leaning against the bole of a tree. If a treetop is hung up and not able to be released inform the Government immediately. The Contractor may be required to post a 24-hour watch with a safety guard until the tops or limbs are on the ground.

5.2.6 Treatment heights and limb retention will be designated on each task order.

5.2.7 Tops shall be Rough cut using a King’s crown or V-type notch cut into the remaining top, with a minimum of 6 cuts into the sawn top surface that are a minimum of 6 inches deep to provide for greater potential of decay introduction (exhibit 5).

5.3 High Girdling – Item 0002

5.3.1 Treatment method will be designated on each task order (exhibit 6).

5.3.2 The bark and cambium layer shall be removed from a 12-inch wide or greater band completely encircling the trunk of the tree but not deeper than ½ inch into the wood. No trace of the cambium shall remain within the band on the bole.

5.3.3 The girdled band shall be placed to be completely visible from the ground between branch whorls or remaining branches as designated in the task order.

5.3.4 Treatment height and limb retention below girdle will be designated in each task order.

5.3.5 Two pieces of fluorescent flagging shall be tied on a branch or around the bole directly below the girdle and shall extend a minimum of four feet in length ensuring that it can be seen from the ground.

5.4 Base Girdling – Item 0003

5.4.1 Treatment method will be designated on each task order (exhibit 6).

5.4.2 The bark and cambium layer shall be removed from a 12-inch wide or greater band completely encircling the trunk of the tree but not deeper than ½ inch into the wood. No trace of the cambium shall remain within the band on the bole.

5.4.3 Girdle height is at or below DBH.

5.4.4 Placement of tags and signs are below the girdle.

5.5 Inoculation – Item 0004 (no exhibit)

5.5.1 Inoculation shall occur on trees as designated in the task order or detailed unit information sheet.

5.5.2 Hole Placement for dowels shall be designated on each task order. Holes shall be 7/8-inch diameter, from horizontal to a 10 degree angle pointing downward and a minimum of 5 inches into the wood, bark…