Robbins-Key_-_Part_II_Contract_Specs (.pdf

ROBBINS-KEY

ABANDONED MINE LAND RECLAMATION PROJECT

WALKER COUNTY, ALABAMA

CONTRACT SPECIFICATIONS – PART II

June 2026

PREPARED BY:

State of Alabama Department of Workforce

Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Program

1400 Urban Center Drive, Suite 200

Vestavia Hills, AL 35242

(205) 945-8671

ROBBINS-KEY PROJECT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION

1. SCOPE OF WORK

2. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

SUMMARY OF QUANTITES

1. SUMMARY OF QUANTITIES

SUPPLEMENTARY CONDITIONS

1. TIME

2. FAILURE TO COMPLETE WORK WITHIN THE CONTRACT TIME

3. PAYMENT

4. BONDING CAPACITY

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

1. MOBILIZATION

2. STORMWATER EROSION CONTROL MANAGEMENT

3. CLEARING

4. UNCLASSIFIED EXCAVATION

5. DAM BACKFILL & COMPACTION

6. SILT FENCE

7. WATTLES

8. TERRACES

9. TERRACE EROSION CONTROL BLANKET

10. CONTOUR EROSION CONTROL BLANKET

11. TURF REINFORCEMENT BLANKET

12. NON-WOVEN FILTER FABRIC

13. CRUSHED LIMESTONE

14. RIPRAP

15. CONCRETE GROUT

16. PIPE INSTALLATION

17. ANTI-SEEP COLLAR

18. POND OUTLET CONTROL STRUCTURE

19. POND SKIMMER

20. DETENTION POND BAFFLES

21. EROSION CONTROL POWDER (PAM)

22. EROSION CONTROL FLOC BLOCKS

23. SOIL IMPROVEMENTS (LIME & FERTILIZER)

24. SEEDING (TEMPORARY & FINAL)

25. MULCHING (TEMPORARY & FINAL)

MATERIALS

1. PREVIOUSLY APPROVED MATERIALS

GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION

1. SCOPE OF WORK

1.1 General: The ROBBINS-KEY project is intended to dramatically reduce or eliminate the hazardous potential of the following features which have been inherited from previous mining activities:

1. Dangerous Highwall

2. Impoundments

3. Spoil Area

1.2 The CONTRACTOR shall install the Initial BMP’s and then perform any necessary clearing operations. Any impoundments must be drained and backfilled prior to mass grading the site. Onsite spoil materials shall be used for backfilling the dangerous highwall and grading the site as shown on the Construction Drawings. Compactive efforts shall be performed as detailed in these Contract Specifications. The CONTRACTOR should prioritize any earthwork related to constructing the required stormwater detention ponds or temporary basins. All areas disturbed by any construction activities must be re-vegetated and any necessary final BMP’s shall be installed.

1.3 The project limits shall NOT be expanded without prior approval from the DEPARTMENT.

All construction activities must be overseen by a competent SUPERINTENDENT who shall ensure that the work is performed in accordance with the Construction Drawings and these Contract Specifications. This SUPERINTENDENT shall carry out the instructions of the PROJECT MONITOR and shall be required to keep a copy of the Construction Drawings, Parts I and II of the Contract Documents, and a copy of the Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan in their possession at all times.

1.4 All federal, state, and local laws, rules, or regulations governing any work performed on the site must be followed at all times. Any permits required during construction must be obtained by the CONTRACTOR or transferred into their name prior to commencing the permitted activities.

1.5 Fines, Penalties, & Violations: The CONTRACTOR shall take sole responsibility for any fines, penalties, or violations related to this project and shall hold harmless the DEPARTMENT regarding these incidents. Any costs, damages, or other expenses incurred by the DEPARTMENT (including attorney fees) due to the CONTRACTOR’s acts or omissions shall be reimbursed to the DEPARTMENT or otherwise compensated by the

CONTRACTOR.

1.6 Working Days: The CONTRACTOR will be awarded sixty (60) workdays to complete all construction activities for this project. These workdays shall begin on the date which the Secretary of the DEPARTMENT signs the contract. The fully executed contract will be delivered via U.S. Mail. Electronic copies shall be provided upon request.

1.7 Pre-Construction Meeting: A Pre-Construction Meeting must be held prior to any mobilization or other construction activities. This meeting shall be scheduled and conducted at the AML Project Office located in Vestavia Hills, Alabama. The CONTRACTOR must be in attendance with their SUPERINTENDENT and QCP for the project.

1.8 Location: The ROBBINS-KEY Project is located in the N ½ of the NE ¼ of Section 1, Township 13 South, Range 8 West of WALKER County, Alabama.

1.9 Site Access: Primary access to the project site shall be gained from Alabama State Route 195 at the location shown on the Construction Drawings. The required construction exit pad shall be of the size and materials shown on the Construction Drawings. Any drainage pipes necessary for site access off of Alabama State Route 195 must be approved by the local City, County, or State Highway Officials prior to installation.

1.10 The CONTRACTOR shall perform routine maintenance efforts on the sites access points to keep the adjacent roads free of any mud or debris for the duration of the project. Minor grading or additional applications of stone shall be required along these locations at the PROJECT MONITOR’s discretion. Any damage to the adjacent roads related to this project shall be repaired at the CONTRACTOR’s expense and must be performed to the satisfaction of the local City, County, or State Highway Officials.

1.11 Utility Involvement: The CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for contacting, locating, and safeguarding all utility lines within the project limits or the access thereof. Any work within the vicinity of overhead utility lines must be performed in conjunction with a dedicated “spotter” who has been solely tasked with protecting the overhead lines, support poles, and/or guy wires. The CONTRACTOR shall also consult with and abide by any additional safety rules, laws, or regulations set forth by the respective utility company.

1.12 The CONTRACTOR shall assume all responsibility and bear the cost of any repairs or necessary replacement at the option of the utility company, or the private landowner in the event of damage to any utility line(s) by either the CONTRACTOR, his agents, employees, or subcontractors. The CONTRACTOR shall also assume all liability for any consequential loss or damages arising from service interruption and/or timely repair of the line(s).

1.13 Survey Markers & Property Corners: The CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for locating, flagging, and protecting all survey markers, benchmarks, and property corners within or adjacent to the project limits. Any damage or disturbance of these monuments shall be repaired at the CONTRACTOR's expense and must be performed by a licensed Professional Land Surveyor who is registered with the State of Alabama. Any work in the vicinity of these monuments should be postponed until the CONTRACTOR’s surveying personnel have located and referenced these points / markers.

2. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

2.1 General: The quality of water upstream of the site shall NOT be diminished as it flows through and leaves the site. The CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for protecting the adjacent property owners and controlling / preventing stormwater pollution from any point or nonpoint sources of pollutants. Any damage to the adjacent property owners or the existing drainage paths downstream of the site shall be immediately repaired at the CONTRACTOR’s expense.

2.2 The CONTRACTOR must provide a Weather Preparedness and Recovery Plan which utilizes an immediate response team who are qualified and available at all times for repairing the erosion and sediment control structures. An adequate supply of any materials or components necessary for these repairs must be constantly maintained on the site and should be stored in a location protected from any adverse weather.

2.3 The CONTRACTOR shall establish construction exit pad(s) and perform routine maintenance efforts along the sites access points to keep the adjacent roads free of any mud or debris for the duration of the project. Any minor grading or additional applications of stone shall be required along these locations at the PROJECT MONITOR’s discretion.

2.4 The CONTRACTOR shall be required to obtain Pollution Liability Insurance prior to commencing any construction activities.

2.5 ADEM Stormwater Permit: In order to expedite the construction process, the DEPARTMNET has obtained the ADEM Small Mining General Permit (ALG890000) for this project. The permit registration must be transferred into the CONTRACTOR’s name prior to any construction activities. The CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for any associated transfer fees and must abide by all rules and regulations outlined in the permit.

This shall include but is NOT limited to:

i Provide a Qualified Credentialed Professional (QCP).

ii Implementation of a Best Management Practices (BMP) Plan.

iii Conduct daily inspections and maintenance of the sites BMP’s.

iv Vegetate any disturbed areas which have been left untouched for a consecutive period of thirteen (13) days.

v Performing monthly Comprehensive Site Inspections or immediately after a qualifying event exceeding ¾ inches of rainfall within a 24-hour period.

2.6 Immediate corrective action shall be required if any storm water control structure is determined to be out of ADEM compliance. All repairs or replacement must be completed prior to the next rainfall event, but NOT to exceed five (5) days unless otherwise prevented by unsafe weather conditions.

2.7 Vegetative Requirements: Any disturbed areas which have been left untouched for a consecutive period of thirteen (13) days must be immediately vegetated. Any excessive delays related to this work shall result in the immediate suspension of all non-essential construction activities. During such time, the CONTRACTOR shall continue to be charged working days.

2.8 The CONTRACTOR shall also be required to abide by all rules and regulations set forth in the ADEM Small Mining General Permit (ALG890000) concerning final vegetative requirements, regardless of the permit’s requirement for this project.

2.9 BMP Implementation: The CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for implementing an approved Best Management Practices (BMP) Plan which meets the requirements established in the ADEM Stormwater Permit. Any modifications to the BMP Plan provided by the DEPARTMENT must be certified by the CONTRACTOR’s QCP and approved by the PROJECT ENGINEER in advance.

2.10 All erosion control structures must be installed in accordance with the current edition of the Alabama Handbook for Erosion Control, Sediment Control, and Stormwater Management on Construction Sites and Urban Areas. The CONTRACTOR shall be required to conduct daily inspections of these structures and perform any routine maintenance or repairs for the duration of the project. This shall include the regular and periodic removal of accumulated sediment from any silt fences, riprap checkdams, wattles, or other erosion control structures.

2.11 Any erosion control structures which are found to be out of compliance with ADEM requirements must be immediately repaired or replaced within five (5) calendar days of the inspection or prior to the next rainfall event (whichever is lesser). Special exception shall be granted for when hazardous weather conditions prevent a timely response.

2.12 All initial BMP’s must be installed prior to any substantive clearing of the site. Upon the final removal of any erosion control structure the CONTRACTOR shall be required to smooth-grade and promptly vegetate the respective area.

2.13 Improper Stormwater Discharge: The CONTRACTOR shall be required to suspend all non-essential construction activities in any drainage area which has discharged / contributed to an instream turbidity which exceeds the background turbidity by more than fifty (50) NTU’s (Nephelometric Turbidity Units), or which has caused substantial visible contrast with background turbidity.

2.14 The suspension of construction activities shall include all operations that are not directed toward correcting the turbidity or the contributing factors according to Best Management Practices. The DEPARTMENT reserves the right to suspend all construction activities throughout the project should such conditions and actions by the CONTRACTOR be deemed unacceptable by the DEPARTMENT’s PROJECT ENGINEER. During such time, working days shall continue to be charged to the CONTRACTOR and non-essential construction activities shall NOT be resumed until the PROJECT ENGINEER has determined that sufficient corrective action has been taken.

2.15 Dust Control: The CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for implementing dust control measures to maintain the air quality of the site. Any disturbed areas must be regularly sprayed with water to minimize dust generation and prevent any nuisance or hazard to the adjacent property owners or environment. Each day’s work area must be sprayed prior to all other construction activities and additional applications should be repeated as needed or when directed by the PROJECT MONITOR.

2.16 Spraying shall be accomplished in a controlled manner which irrigates the ground without causing excessive erosion or runoff from the site. All water trucks should be maintained in good working condition and must be capable of storing a minimum of 2,000-gallons of water. Any water truck which loses more than 1,000-gallons of water in a 24-hour period shall be considered to have an excessive leak and must be immediately replaced with a truck which meets the above requirements.

2.17 The CONTRACTOR shall be required to take immediate corrective action against any excessive dust generation on the site. Any un-related construction activities shall be suspended at the PROJECT ENGINEER and/or PROJECT MONITOR’s discretion and shall NOT be resumed until sufficient corrective action has been taken.

2.18 Site Upkeep: The CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for “good housekeeping” and must provide onsite refuse containers for any employee trash or garbage. These materials shall be periodically collected and properly disposed of as directed by the PROJECT MONITOR.

2.19 The CONTRACTOR must also provide a minimum of one (1) portable toilet which should be placed onsite at a location which is convenient for all employees or visitors to the site.

All portable toilets must be regularly serviced, as needed.

2.20 Normal equipment maintenance shall be permitted onsite, however, all fluids, filters, or other related items must be properly collected and disposed of in a timely manner at an appropriate disposal or recycling facility. Any excessive leaks identified by the DEPARTMENT on any piece of equipment must be immediately repaired or if necessary, the equipment removed from the site until such time that the repair can be made. Any equipment which requires additional engine, transmission, or hydraulic fluids to be added on a daily basis shall be considered to have an excessive leak.

2.21 Hazardous Spills: The CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for preparing and maintaining an onsite copy of the Spill Prevention, Control, & Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan for all oils, fuels, or other items that will be used or stored on site as outlined in Alabama Administrative Code Rule 335-6-6-.12 and 40CFR Part 112.

2.22 All fuel and oil spills must be cleaned up immediately. The CONTRACTOR shall remove and store the contaminated material in approved containers until the appropriate treatment process can be performed. Any spills in excess of twenty-five (25) gallons must be immediately reported to ADEM.

2.22a Minor Spills or Leaks: The contaminated materials should be spread uniformly over a six-mil polyethylene liner and exposed to the sun. The CONTRACTOR shall be required to stir and turn over the contaminated material each day for a consecutive period of five (5) days to allow for the fuel or oil to volatize. The contaminated material must be kept dry during this time and should be covered prior to any rainfall event. Once volatization has occurred, the material should be thinly spread across the entire site.

2.22b Major Spills or Leaks: The contaminated material shall be tested in accordance with ADEM requirements by a qualified laboratory to determine the total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) content. If the material exceeds 100 ppmTPH additional drying and testing shall be required until the material meets the minimum TPH content. The CONTRACTOR shall then spread the previously contaminated material across the entire site.

2.23 Fuel Tank Requirements: Any fuel tanks kept onsite, whether fixed-mounted or mobile, must be stored and fully enclosed in an earthen containment berm which has been constructed in advance. This shall also apply to any dual-lined tanks or tanks with in-situ secondary containment. The location must be approved by the PROJECT MONITOR and should be placed outside of the main grading area and away from any streams or other natural drainage areas.

2.24 The required containment berm must be capable of storing 110% of the volume of any tank which will be stationed inside. The CONTRACTOR shall utilize onsite materials to construct an earthen berm which should be a minimum of 2-feet tall with 1:1 side slopes and a minimum crest width of 2-feet. The required PVC drain pipe must be equipped with a lockable gate valve and should be installed flush with the bottom of the berm. The required valve shall remain closed at all times unless the berm is being actively drained.

2.25 The CONTRACTOR shall remove any large stones or sharp rocks and line the berm with a 9-mil sheet of polyethylene. This liner should extend at least 1-foot beyond the top of the berm and the edges secured by steel pins spaced 2-feet on center. Any seams between subsequent sheets of polyethylene must be overlapped by 6-inches and heat welded to form a continuous bond.

2.26 The CONTRACTOR shall inspect the berm on a weekly basis for signs of deterioration, accumulation of fuel/oil, or any leaks in the tank, pipes, or valves. Additional inspections shall be required after any significant rainfall event which exceeds ¼ inches of rainfall within a 24-hour period. Any rainfall which accumulates in the berm must be inspected for the presence of any fuel or oil sheen. If none is present, the gate valve on the berm may be opened and the clean water drained. This valve shall remain closed and locked at all other times. If pollutants are present in the accumulated water, the pollutants shall be skimmed off using hydrophobic / oleophilic booms or mats.

2.27 Upon completion of the project, the fuel containment berm and the adjacent area shall be smooth-graded and promptly vegetated to blend with the surrounding terrain. The polyethylene liner and/or any contaminated soils shall be removed and disposed of properly.

SUMMARY OF QUANTITES

1. SUMMARY OF QUANTITIES

1.1 The estimated quantities shown below are not guaranteed by the DEPARTMENT and should only be used for determining unit prices for bidding.

Description of Work Quantity Units

Mobilization 1 Lump Sum

Stormwater Erosion Control Management 1 Lump Sum

Clearing 9 Acres

Unclassified Excavation 16,600 Cu. Yds.

Dam Backfill & Compaction 680 Cu. Yds.

Silt Fence, Type A 6,430 Lin. Ft.

Wattles (20" Dia.) 1,000 Lin. Ft.

Terraces 1,150 Lin. Ft.

Terrace Erosion Control Blanket 1,150 Lin. Ft.

Contour Erosion Control Blanket 2,390 Lin. Ft.

Turf Reinforcement Blanket 1,900 Lin. Ft.

Non-woven Filter Fabric 2,050 Sq. Yds.

ALDOT No. 24 Limestone 70 Tons

ALDOT No. 57 Limestone 280 Tons

ALDOT No. 8910 Limestone 100 Tons

ALDOT No. 825-B Limestone 145 Tons

Riprap, Class I Limestone 1,115 Tons

Riprap, Class II Limestone 200 Tons

Concrete Grout 50 Cu. Yds.

Pipe, 18" Dia. Corr. PE (N-12) WT-IB 235 Lin. Ft.

Anti-seep Collar (18" Dia. Pipe) 2 Each

Pond Outlet Control Structure 1 Each

Pond Skimmer (2" Dia.) 1 Each

Detention Pond Baffles 300 Lin. Ft.

Erosion Control Powder (PAM) 90 Pounds

Erosion Control Floc Blocks 10 Each

Dolomitic Lime 60 Tons

Commercial Fertilizer (13-13-13) 4 Tons

Seeding 9 Acres

Temporary Seeding 23 Acres

Mulching 29 Tons

Temporary Mulching 36 Tons

SUPPLEMENTARY CONDITIONS

1. TIME

1.1 The workdays provided in these Contract Specifications have been determined adequate to complete all required construction activities and shall NOT be extended unless modified in writing by the AML Program Manager.

1.2 A workday shall be defined as any day during the contract period, where weather and field conditions are sufficient for work to be performed, as determined by the PROJECT MONITOR. This shall exclude all Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays specified in Article 6.3 of the General Conditions, unless otherwise approved by the DEPARTMENT.

1.3 On days where weather and field conditions limit a normal workday, the day will be considered a workday if five or more hours of work have been performed or could have been performed, as determined by the PROJECT MONITOR. If the CONTRACTOR has not been actively working on a site for five consecutive workdays, they will not receive the benefit of weather days and every day, regardless of weather conditions, will be counted as a workday until such time as the CONTRACTOR returns to the site and continues active construction on the project site.

1.4 In order for any work to be performed on a Saturday, a request by the CONTRACTOR to the PROJECT MONITOR must first be made no later than the end of the day on the preceding Wednesday. Notification for approval or disapproval of requested Saturday work will be given verbally by the PROJECT MONITOR before the end of the day on the preceding Friday. Approval for Saturday work will be given only when arrangements for a PROJECT MONITOR can be scheduled to observe the Saturday work, and weather and construction logistics permit such work. In every case where Saturday work is requested by the CONTRACTOR and approved, it will be considered a workday where it has been determined by the PROJECT MONITOR that five or more hours of work have been or could have been performed.

1.5 Any reference to day(s), unless specifically indicated as a workday, refer to continuous time calendar days.

2. FAILURE TO COMPLETE WORK WITHIN THE CONTRACT TIME

2.1 Should the CONTRACTOR, or in case of default, the Surety, fail to complete the work within the time stipulated in the contract, a deduction for each workday that any work shall remain incomplete, in the amount indicated by the Liquidated Damages Schedule shown below, shall be deducted from any monies due the CONTRACTOR. Liquidated damages assessed as provided in these Contract Specifications is not a penalty but is intended to compensate the DEPARTMENT for increased time in administering the contract, supervision, inspection, and engineering, particularly that engineering and inspection which requires maintaining normal project engineering forces for a longer time than originally contemplated when the contract period was agreed upon in the contract.

SCHEDULE OF LIQUIDATED DAMAGES

ORIGINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT CHARGE PER WORKDAY

More Than To & Including $ 0

100,000

500,000

1,000,000

2,000,000

$ 100,000

500,000

1,000,000

2,000,000

3,000,000

$ 400.00

1,100.00

1,800.00

2,700.00

3,100.00

3. PAYMENT

3.1 Payment for the work will be made in accordance with the procedures of Section M, Paragraph 1.1c in Part I of the Contract Specifications and the Payment Article of the Special Provisions of Part II of the Contract Documents pertaining to this project.

4. BONDING CAPACITY

4.1 The CONTRACTOR is required to provide proof of bonding capacity from surety / bonding agency with bid submittal.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

1. MOBILIZATION

1.1 General: The Mobilization Item is intended as a compensation measure for delivering any equipment, materials, or other supplies which are necessary for construction. The CONTRACTOR should also include their costs for installing the required construction signage, fuel containment berm(s), portable toilet(s), garbage bin(s), and any minor grading or clearing necessary for site access or initial BMP installation. All labor involved with any of these aspects and their final removal or any temporary traffic control which is necessary during construction shall be considered part of the Mobilization Item.

1.2 The Mobilization Item shall be limited to fifteen percent (15%) of the CONTRACTOR’s total bid price.

1.3 Temporary Traffic Control: All traffic control signs must conform to the standards set forth in the current edition of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), published by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration.

1.4 The CONTRACTOR shall erect the required advanced warning signs during the initial phase of Mobilization and keep them in good working order with legible lettering and adequate reflectivity for the duration of construction. Any signs with taped-over or marked-out words shall not be permitted for use.

1.5 The required sign locations shall be shown on the Construction Drawings or designated in the field by the PROJECT MONITOR. Any limbs, branches, or other vegetation which could impede a motorist’s view must be immediately trimmed or removed. Any signs which become damaged for any reason during construction must be immediately replaced or repaired at the CONTRACTOR’s expense. All temporary traffic control signs shall be removed upon completion of the project with approval from the PROJECT ENGINEER.

1.6 Payment: Mobilization is considered a lump sum item and shall be paid for in two separate installments. The first installment shall be sixty percent (60%) of the Mobilization line item and should be requested with the first progress payment. The remaining forty percent (40%) balance of the Mobilization line item may be requested once all earthwork has been completed and approved by the PROJECT ENGINEER. It shall be the CONTRACTOR's responsibility to include any articles associated with this Item in their unit price.

2. STORMWATER EROSION CONTROL MANAGEMENT

2.1 General: The Stormwater Erosion Control Management (SECM) Item is intended as a compensation measure for constructing the permit identification sign, maintaining the stormwater permit, collecting / reporting data to ADEM, and any costs associated with installing or maintaining any supplementary BMPs for which a Pay Item has not explicitly been provided. This shall include but is not limited to, the construction of any brush barriers, water bars, temporary earthen berms or sump excavation, and the periodic removal of sediment buildup along riprap checkdams, ditches, sumps, or other BMP’s as required by the CONTRACTOR’s QCP.

2.2 The Stormwater Erosion Control Management (SECM) Item shall be limited to fifteen percent (15%) of the CONTRACTOR’s total bid price.

2.3 Requirements: The CONTRACTOR must have the ADEM Small Mining General Permit (if applicable) transferred into their name prior to mobilizing any equipment to the site. The permit shall remain in the CONTRACTOR’s name for the duration of the project and beyond the construction phase until ADEM has granted its release. Until such time, the CONTRACTOR and their QCP shall continue to be responsible for conducting regular inspections, cataloging and reporting all rainfall data, documenting any discharges from the site, and maintaining or adding BMPs as necessary. Excess materials for these BMPs must be stockpiled onsite so that any repairs can be immediately installed.

2.4 Any correspondences between the CONTRACTOR and ADEM should be promptly forwarded to the DEPARTMENT within ten (10) calendar days of being issued or received.

This includes but is not limited to any reports, rainfall data, or letters regarding the transfer, renewal, or termination of the permit. AML sites typically take six months to establish sufficient vegetative cover for ADEM to release the stormwater permit. Once the project has been accepted by the DEPARTMENT, any repairs or overseeding of the site which ADEM may require for the permit’s release shall be performed at the CONTRACTOR’s expense.

2.5 The CONTRACTOR and their QCP must conform with any guidelines or other requirements set forth in the Small Mining General Permit. Any fuel tanks or other hazardous materials should be properly stored, and the CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for keeping and updating the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan for any materials which are stored or used onsite.

2.6 Rain Gauges: The CONTRACTOR shall furnish and install two rain gauges, one of which shall be exclusively used by the PROJECT MONITOR. This gauge must be made of a frost-proof plastic and should be accurate to 1/8-inch with a minimum capacity of at least five (5) cubic inches. The gauge should be installed at an open location approved by the PROJECT MONITOR which is free of any tree cover or other obstructions. Any posts or hardware necessary for gauge installation shall be considered subsidiary to the SECM item.

2.7 Identification Sign: The CONTRACTOR shall be required to fabricate and install the Permit Identification Sign as depicted on the Construction Drawings. Locations shall be determined in the field by the PROJECT MONITOR. The CONTRACTOR should confirm the sign’s design and required text information with the PROJECT MONITOR prior to any fabrication.

2.8 Payment: The Stormwater Erosion Control Management (SECM) is considered a lump sum item and shall be paid for in three separate installments. The first installment shall be thirty percent (30%) of the SECM line item and should be requested with the first progress payment. The second installment shall be fifty percent (50%) of the SECM line item and may be requested once the CONTRACTOR has completed at least half of the total cubic yards of earthwork. The remaining twenty percent (20%) balance of the SECM line item should be requested with the CONTRACTOR’s final pay request after all items of work have been completed and the DEPARTMENT has approved of the site. It shall be the CONTRACTOR's responsibility to include any articles associated with this Item in their unit price.

3. CLEARING

3.1 General: The Clearing Item shall be used for removing and properly disposing of any vegetation or other debris within the project limits which is necessary for grading the site.

This shall include, but is not limited to, any trees, stumps, shrubs, roots, or vines; and any trash, tires, abandoned vehicles, or other foreign objects which are not naturally occurring on the site. The disposal methods must be approved by the PROJECT MONITOR prior to any burning, grinding, chipping, or offsite hauling of the materials.

3.2 The Clearing Item shall be limited to fifteen percent (15%) of the CONTRACTOR’s total bid price.

3.3 Clearing Limits: The project limits shall be roughly flagged by the DEPARTMENT prior to construction. The CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for verifying its location and should establish appropriate Clearing Limits within that boundary which will accommodate the grading of the site while also maintaining a smooth and concise tree line. These Clearing Limits may be adjusted at the PROJECT MONITOR’s discretion in order to blend the disturbed areas into the natural topography of the site.

3.4 Any work which is performed outside of the project limits shall result in an immediate stop work order. During such time, the CONTRACTOR shall continue to be charged working days and shall be responsible for any expenses incurred by the DEPARTMENT while consulting with the appropriate agencies.

3.5 Property Damage: Any retained trees along the Clearing Limit which become damaged during construction should be promptly felled or treated with an approved tree wound compound to the satisfaction of the PROJECT MONITOR.

3.6 Any damage or disturbance of adjacent property or structures resulting from the Clearing operation shall be repaired or replaced at the CONTRACTOR’s expense. This work must be performed in an expeditious manner by qualified individuals who are licensed, bonded, and insured to perform the work, and shall be completed to the DEPARTMENT’s satisfaction.

3.7 Survey Markers & Property Corners: The CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for locating, flagging, and protecting all survey markers, benchmarks, and property corners within the project limits. Any damage or disturbance of these monuments shall be repaired at the CONTRACTOR's expense and must be performed by a licensed Professional Land Surveyor who is registered with the State of Alabama.

3.8 Disposal of Materials: The CONTRACTOR may harvest and sell the existing vegetation within the approved Clearing Limits. Any debris such as trash, tires, abandoned vehicles, or other foreign objects which are discovered during the Clearing activities must be collected and disposed of at an approved landfill. Additionally, any vegetation which could NOT be sold or sufficiently burned as determined by the PROJECT MONITOR must also be disposed of at an approved landfill. The CONTRACTOR must provide documentation from the timber sale or a receipt from the landfill which records the type of material, tare weight, gross weight, and the net weight of each load.

3.9 Any alternative methods for disposal must be approved by the DEPARTMENT in advance.

The CONTRACTOR shall be required to submit a written plan for the alternative and provide an acceptable means for documenting the disposal. Burying of any Cleared materials shall NOT be permitted.

3.10 Burning Guidelines: All burning activities must be conducted utilizing a trench burner mechanism. The device shall be installed at a location approved by the PROJECT MONITOR, and must be segregated from any existing structures, utility lines, coal seams, stockpiles, or other flammable materials. Prior to obtaining the initial Burn Permit, the CONTRACTOR must have the trench burner inspected and approved by the Alabama Forestry Commission. A copy of the approved permit should be forwarded to the PROJECT MONITOR, and the CONTRACTOR should notify all local authorities, such as firefighters and police, before commencing any burning activities.

3.11 The CONTRACTOR must abide by all requirements set forth in the Burn Permit in addition to all federal, state, and local laws or regulations. Any burning of tires, household garbage, construction materials, or other non-vegetative debris shall be strictly prohibited. Burning of the site’s vegetation must be fully conducted within the approved hours listed on the Burn Permit. All active fires must be completely burned down each day before leaving the site and shall NOT be left unattended at any time. The CONTRACTOR should gradually feed material into the trench burner in a controlled manner. Any excessive piling of materials or otherwise abuse of the Burn Permit shall be immediately reported to the Alabama Forestry Commission.

3.12 If the Burn Permit is revoked or a “No Burn” order is issued, the CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for removing the vegetation from the site as outlined in the disposal section. Any materials which were not sufficiently burned as determined by the PROJECT MONITOR must also be disposed of in this manner. Any residual ashes left over from the burning operation should be evenly dispersed throughout the fill material as directed by the

PROJECT MONITOR.

3.13 Payment: Clearing is considered a lump sum item and shall be paid for in incremental installments requested by the CONTRACTOR. Each installment shall be paid based on the acreage of the site which has been properly Cleared of any vegetation or debris in accordance with the Construction Drawings and Contract Specifications as measured by the PROJECT MONITOR. The status of the Cleared area at the time of the pay request shall determine what percentage of the Unit Price shall be eligible for payment.

3.14 Any portions of the site which the CONTRACTOR has completed felling and stockpiling of the vegetation shall be eligible for fifty percent (50%) of the associated unit price per acre.

The remaining fifty percent (50%) balance of the unit price shall be eligible for payment once the CONTRACTOR has completed the associated burning, grinding, chipping, or otherwise disposal of the materials from the Cleared Area. It shall be the CONTRACTOR's

4. UNCLASSIFIED EXCAVATION

4.1 General: The Unclassified Excavation Item shall consist of any earthwork necessary to achieve the grades / slopes shown on the Construction Drawings. This shall include but is not limited to any excavating, transporting, backfilling, or compacting of the onsite spoil materials and if applicable, any pumping, testing, or chemical treatments necessary for removing and backfilling the impounded water bodies.

4.2 The CONTRACTOR shall approach the work required by the Unclassified Excavation Item in a strategic manner which places first priority on constructing any temporary basins or required detention ponds, and then on removing the sites impounded water bodies. The mass grading of the site shall be performed at the PROJECT ENGINEER’s discretion and may be suspended at any time if the CONTRACTOR fails to comply with the requirements outlined in these Contract Specifications.

4.3 If less fill material is available due to excessive rock outcroppings, the CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for adjusting field grades to best approximate the design. All field adjustments must be approved by the DEPARTMENT prior to any deviation from the Construction Drawings.

4.4 The CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for locating and protecting all utility lines, survey markers, benchmarks, or property corners within or adjacent to the site. Any damage or otherwise disturbance of these items shall be repaired at the CONTRACTORS expense as detailed in the Scope of Work section.

4.5 Draining Impoundments: Any impounded water bodies which have been identified for removal must be discharged via pumping. The CONTRACTOR shall be required to test the pH of the waters each day before continuing with pumping operations. Only waters which have a pH between six (6) and nine (9) may be discharged. Any waters which test outside of this range must be treated with an appropriate chemical additive that has been approved by the DEPARTMENT in advance. The treated waters must then be allowed to sit for 48-hours or circulated for a minimum of 24-hours before they can be tested again for release.

4.6 The PROJECT MONITOR must approve of the pumping mechanism, rate, and discharge path prior to draining the impoundment. The CONTRACTOR shall be required to attach a flotation device to the pump and maintain at least 1-foot of elevation between the pump’s intake and the bottom of the impoundment. All discharged waters must be filtered through a series of riprap check dams, sumps, or other approved BMP’s before exiting the site. The full length of the drainage path must be inspected at regular 2-hour intervals. Any excessive erosion, scouring, or sediment laden runoff shall require the CONTRACTOR to immediately suspend all pumping operations and install additional BMPs along the discharge path to the satisfaction of the PROJECT MONITOR.

4.7 Pumping operations shall be performed at the PROJECT MONITOR’s discretion. Any unsupervised pumps must be turned off, or if permitted, idled down to their lowest acceptable setting when leaving the site unattended. The CONTRACTOR shall continue conducting daily water testing and must perform daily inspections of the drainage path when pumps have been left unattended in an idled condition.

4.8 Backfilling Impoundments: During the draining process, the CONTRACTOR shall be periodically required to construct stabilization berms to partition any sufficiently drained areas of the impoundment and prevent the flow of overly saturated or muck materials. These berms shall have a minimum of 1:1 side-slope and be spaced at 50-feet on center unless directed otherwise by the PROJECT MONITOR. The crest elevation of the berms should NOT exceed the maximum capacity of the impoundment and must allow for positive drainage once the partitioned area has been completely backfilled.

4.9 The CONTRACTOR shall NOT be permitted to release any waters by means of crowding or backfilling the impoundment. All compactive efforts shall be performed to the satisfaction of the PROJECT MONITOR using 3-foot uniform lifts as outlined in the Compactive Efforts Section. Any excavation of muck materials deemed necessary by the CONTRACTOR for warrantying their work shall be considered part of the Unclassified Excavation Item.

4.10 Grading & Backfill: Mass grading of the site shall be postponed until the CONTRACTOR has first installed all necessary BMP’s, sufficiently removed any impoundments, and constructed the required temporary basins or detention ponds. The grades / slopes shown on the Construction Drawings are targeted towards zero-balance earthwork. Excess material which remains after grading operations have been completed should be uniformly spread across the site as directed by the PROJECT MONITOR. Any field adjustments which are necessary due to insufficient material must be approved by the DEPARTMENT in advance and should best approximate the original design.

4.11 All backfill and compactive efforts must be conducted perpendicular to the slope / highwall in order to maximize consolidation. The CONTRACTOR shall perform successive passes over the material using approved equipment as detailed in the Compactive Efforts Section.

Compaction shall be permitted parallel to the wall during the final 6-feet of highwall backfill but shall require additional passes to ensure a stable joint has been created. The face of the highwall should be scarified and blended into the finished graded slopes as directed by the

PROJECT MONITOR.

4.12 Any clay material which is discovered during construction, or the best material available as determined by the PROJECT MONITOR, must be stockpiled and saved for constructing detention pond dams. Similarly, any topsoil discovered, or other quality materials for establishing vegetation should be stockpiled and used for platting the finished slopes as directed by the PROJECT MONITOR.

4.13 All finished slopes must be smoothed to a uniform contour and cleaned of any large stones, roots, or other debris which could impede vegetation. Any erosion rills, washes, or other damage / failures in the finished slopes must be repaired prior to the site’s final inspection.

All disturbed areas which have been left untouched for a consecutive period of thirteen (13) days must be immediately vegetated.

4.14 Any miscellaneous excavation or backfill required for constructing French Drains, Ditches, or other elements such which a pay item has NOT explicitly been provided for shall be considered part of the Unclassified Excavation Item. This shall also include the excavation for any required pond dams.

4.15 Compactive Efforts: All backfill material should be placed in uniform horizontal lifts not to exceed 3-feet in thickness and compacted to the satisfaction of the PROJECT MONITOR.

The table below represents the minimum number of passes which must be performed by the CONTRACTOR using equivalent sized tracked machines. Any deviation in the equipment used should be equated based on its weight.

Number of Passes Equipment Size

8 Passes Caterpillar D-4 or D-5

6 Passes Caterpillar D-6

4 Passes Caterpillar D-8 or D-9

2 Passes Caterpillar D-10 or Greater

4.16 Dust Control: The CONTRACTOR shall be responsible for implementing dust control measures as detailed in the Environmental Considerations Section. Each day’s work area must be regularly sprayed with water to minimize dust generation and prevent any nuisance or hazard to the adjacent property owners or environment. Additional applications shall be repeated as needed or when directed by the PROJECT MONITOR and should be performed in a controlled manner which irrigates the ground without causing excessive erosion or runoff from the site.

4.17 Excessive Coal Fines: A visual assessment shall be performed over the site for the presence of excess coal fines immediately after all Clearing operations have been completed. Any excessive coal fines which are discovered or encountered later during excavation must be spread and buried along the base of the highwall. The CONTRACTOR shall ensure that all coal fines must have a minimum cover thickness of two (2) feet.

4.18 Warranty of Work: The CONTRACTOR shall be required to provide a 1-year warranty for all earthwork performed on the site beginning on the date which the CONTRACTOR’s final pay request was submitted. Any failures in the slopes during this time which result in the settling or otherwise displacement of the soil in excess of one (1) foot in height must be immediately repaired by the CONTRACTOR. All repairs shall be performed to the DEPARTMENT’s satisfaction in accordance with these Contract Specifications and without additional compensation. This shall include, but is NOT limited to, any mobilization of equipment or materials, installation of temporary BMP’s, and re-vegetation of the areas which were disturbed during the repair.

4.19 Payment: Unclassified Excavation is considered a lump sum item and shall be paid for in incremental installments requested by the CONTRACTOR. Each installment shall be paid based on the cubic yards of material which have been placed and compacted in accordance with the Construction Drawings and Contract Specifications as measured by the PROJECT MONITOR at the time of the request. It shall be the CONTRACTOR's responsibility to include any articles associated with this Item in their unit price.

5. DAM BACKFILL & COMPACTION

5.1 General: The Dam Backfill & Compaction Item shall consist of all backfilling, compaction, or soil testing which is necessary for constructing the required pond dam(s) as shown on the Construction Drawings. Any excavation of material which is associated with these dams shall be considered part of the Unclassified Excavation Item.

5.2 The CONTRACTOR shall evaluate the site and stockpile the best available material which exhibits good cohesive qualities. This material must be approved by the DEPARTMENT and should be free from any debris, vegetation, or other objectionable materials. Any Shale material, excessive rock, or rocks larger than 4-inches in diameter shall NOT be permitted for use in any pond dams. Additional coordination with the PROJECT ENGINEER shall be required if sufficient materials cannot be obtained from the site.

5.3 Final vegetation along the dam must be conducted immediately upon its completion. Any excessive delays regarding this work shall result in the immediate suspension of all non-essential construction activities. During such time, the CONTRACTOR shall continue to be charged working days.

5.4 Soil Testing: All soil testing shall be the responsibility of the CONTRACTOR and must be conducted by a qualified agency which has been approved by the DEPARTMENT in advance and is a third party to all other work being conducted on the site. The testing agency shall be required to compute the materials maximum dry unit weight based on the Standard Proctor Test (ASTM D698) in addition to conducting multiple field tests for density and moisture content.

5.5 Excavation: The centerline of the dam and both the upstream and downstream toes of slope must be located by the CONTRACTOR and approved by the PROJECT MONITOR prior to conducting any earthwork within the footprint of the dam. The CONTRACTOR shall then excavate the dam’s foundation as shown on the Construction Drawings. The depth and/or location of excavation may be adjusted by the PROJECT ENGINEER based on field conditions or if bedrock is encountered at a shallower depth than anticipated.

5.6 Pipe Trench Excavation: The CONTRACTOR shall be required to construct the Dam to an elevation at least two (2) feet above the top of any outlet pipes before excavation of the required pipe trench. All backfill for the pipe trench must be placed and compacted as detailed in the Pipe Installation Section.

5.7 Backfill & Compaction: The excavated foundation of the dam must be proof rolled and compacted to the PROJECT MONITOR’s satisfaction prior to placing any backfill material.

Each subsequent layer of backfill shall require density testing and must be placed in uniform horizontal lifts not to exceed 8-inches in thickness. These lifts must be compacted using a sheepsfoot roller or other approved equipment until the density reaches 98% of the material’s maximum dry unit weight.

5.8 During compaction operations, the CONTRACTOR shall be required to regularly test the backfill material and maintain each lift within 3% of its optimum moisture content. Water should be uniformly added to the material if necessary, or if the lift has become overly saturated, the CONTRACTOR shall be required to remove the saturated material and allow it to sufficiently air dry before it can be re-used.

5.9 Testing locations shall be dictated by the PROJECT MONITOR and should be spaced at approximate 50-foot intervals along the length of the dam. The CONTRACTOR shall be required to gradually offset / stagger each testing site to ensure there are no overlaps with previous locations. A written copy of each test which records the density, moisture content, and approximate location / elevation must be provided to the PROJECT MONITOR for documentation purposes. Any lift which fails to meet the above requirements shall be recompacted or if necessary, removed at the PROJECT MONITOR’s discretion.

5.10 The PROJECT MONITOR and/or PROJECT ENGINEER must be present during all aspects related to the backfill and compaction of the dam. The CONTRACTOR must provide at least 24-hour notice prior to commencing any earthwork within the dam’s footprint. Any backfill or compactive efforts which the DEPARTMENT’s approved representative was NOT present for shall be removed and replaced at the CONTRACTOR’s expense. If there are any delays which exceed 2-hours between the final compaction of any layer and the placement of the subsequent lift, the CONTRACTOR shall be required to scarify the compacted layer to the satisfaction of the PROJECT MONITOR.

5.11 Payment: The Dam Backfill & Compaction Item is considered a variable quantity item and shall be paid for in incremental installments requested by…