San_Luis_NWR_Invasive_Questions_and_Answers.pdf

Questions for San Luis NWR Invasive Species Eradication

1.) Is there an acreage total for each species to be treated at each area identified on the maps?

-Areas of infestation were identified during an aerial survey by helicopter in 2021. A detection map was provided to the refuge but specific information on density, patch size and infestation are not known. Many of the sites are rarely visited by staff and specific details are not known beyond what is indicated on the maps provided.

2.) Is there a total stem and size count for the Tree of Heaven, Ficus, and Salt Cedar trees to be treated?

-Areas of infestation were identified during an aerial survey by helicopter in 2021, while a general detection map was provided the refuge specific information on density, patch size and infestation are not specifically known.

3.) For Arundo control the prospectus states, “Standing stalks will be cut and removed by the crew to an area accessible by USFWS heavy equipment”. Can the stalks be transported by utility vehicle to those locations?

-Yes, this would be appropriate.

4.) Do Tree of Heaven, Ficus, and Salt Cedar stems have to be cut and removed to areas accessible by USFWS heavy equipment also?

-If feasible to do so, otherwise cut and scatter method to be employed.

5.) Where is the “area accessible by USFWS heavy equipment” located for each removal location?

-Will depend on location and be agreed upon in the field by FWS and contractor.

Generally most of the sites should be accessible by UFWS equipment within .25 miles.

6.) Are there physical access issues with any of the locations to be treated?

-Some areas may be difficult to access by vehicle, but in general 4WD vehicles should be able to reach within .25 to .5 miles of sites.

7.) Section A.02B (Work Included) of the contract states, “any unmapped stands of the four priority invasive plant species detected by the crew should be identified using the observation layer of the field tool and treated.” How is the contractor to be paid for this additional treatment work if it is not in the original bid total?

-Treatment locations will be prioritized for contractor. Should significant additional infestations be identified and treated, lower priority treatment sites will be removed from scope to accommodate unplanned additional treatments within original project budget.

8.) Section A.04 (Quality Control) states, “99% of target species must be treated with 95% kill rate.” A number of these species are often hard to kill. What happens if the 95% threshold is not reached?

Cut stump method should generate high kill rate. Will agree to remove Arundo from 95% requirement. Re-treatment would be requested.

9.) Are the kmz files ”indicating treatment locations” available prior to bid date?

-Yes, attached.

10.) Can we request a pre-bid tour prior to bid date (doesn’t leave much time with bid date of August 29)?

Most areas are fairly remote and would be difficult to tour in a site visit, please review maps and kmz provided.