Sol_140F1G26Q0080.pdf

REQUEST FOR QUOTATION

(THIS IS NOT AN ORDER)

THIS RFQ IS IS NOT A SMALL BUSINESS SET-ASIDE

15. DATE OF QUOTATION

16. SIGNER

a. NAME (Type or print)

c. TITLE (Type or print)

b. TELEPHONE

AREA CODE

NUMBER

STANDARD FORM 18 (REV. 6/1995)

Prescribed by GSA-FAR (48 CFR) 53.215-1(a)

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

Previous edition not usable

8. TO:

b. COMPANYa. NAME

c. STREET ADDRESS

d. CITY e. STATE f. ZIP CODE

9. DESTINATION

a. NAME OF CONSIGNEE

b. STREET ADDRESS

d. STATE e. ZIP CODE

7. DELIVERY

FOB DESTINATION

OTHER

(See Schedule)

10. PLEASE FURNISH QUOTATIONS TO THE

ISSUING OFFICE IN BLOCK 5a ON OR BEFORE CLOSE OF BUSINESS (Date)

IMPORTANT: This is a request for information and quotations furnished are not offers. If you are unable to quote, please so indicate on this form and return it to the address in Block 5a. This request does not commit the Government to pay any costs incurred in the preparation of the submission of this quotation or to contract for supplies or service. Supplies are of domestic origin unless otherwise indicated by quoter. Any representations and/or certifications attached to this Request for Quotation must be completed by the quoter.

11. SCHEDULE (Include applicable Federal, State and local taxes)

ITEM NUMBER

(a)

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

(b)

QUANTITY

(c)

UNIT

(d)

UNIT PRICE

(e)

AMOUNT

(f)

12. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT

a. 10 CALENDAR DAYS (%) b. 20 CALENDAR DAYS (%) c. 30 CALENDAR DAYS (%) d. CALENDAR DAYS

NUMBER PERCENTAGE

NOTE: Additional provisions and representations are are not attached.

13. NAME AND ADDRESS OF QUOTER

a. NAME OF QUOTER

b. STREET ADDRESS

c. COUNTY

d. CITY e. STATE f. ZIP CODE

14. SIGNATURE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO

SIGN QUOTATION

PAGE OF PAGES

1. REQUEST NUMBER 2. DATE ISSUED 3. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQUEST NUMBER 4. CERT. FOR NAT. DEF.

UNDER BDSA REG. 2

AND/OR DMS REG. 1

RATING

5a. ISSUED BY 6. DELIVER BY (Date)

NAME TELEPHONE NUMBER

AREA CODE NUMBER

c. CITY

5b. FOR INFORMATION CALL (NO COLLECT CALLS)

16450 NW 31ST PLACE

FWS IT Goods FWS, IT Goods 5275 Leesburg Pike Falls Church VA 22041

0044054398140F1G26Q0080

John Skogen

713-5210

FWS LWR SUWANNEE NWR

32626-4874

08/13/2026

08/27/2026 1700 CD

02/05/2027

CHIEFLAND

FL

Period of Performance: 12/07/2026 to

02/05/2027

00010 Tree Planting

Please see Performance Work Statement attached

Delivery: 02/05/2027

1 33

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge 2026-2027 Tree Planting Project

Part 1

General Information

1. GENERAL: This is a non-personnel services contract to provide tree planting. The Government shall not exercise any supervision or control over the contract service providers performing the services herein.

Such contract service providers shall be accountable solely to the Contractor who, in turn is responsible to the Government.

1.1 Description of Services/Introduction: The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, transportation, tools, materials, supervision, and other items and non-personal services necessary to perform tree planting as defined in this Performance Work Statement except for those items specified as government furnished property and services. The contractor shall perform to the standards in this contract.

1.2 Background: The purpose of this project is to establish longleaf pine on the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge. Due to previous timber company management practices, slash pine was planted in areas where longleaf pine would have naturally flourished. These locations have been identified, and efforts are underway to gradually convert them from slash pine to native longleaf pine, supporting wildlife habitat and forest sustainability.

1.3 Objectives: Hand plant 114 acres of containerized longleaf pine seedlings on 11 sites in Levy County, Florida

1.4 Scope: Hand plant 136,000 containerized longleaf pine seedlings at the density designated below.

Longleaf Pine (6’x 6’) spacing ~ 1200 trees/acre 114 acres @ 1200 trees/acre ~ 136,000 trees

The containerized longleaf pine seedlings will be purchased by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) from Meeks’ Farm & Nursery Inc., 187 Flanders Rd., Kite, GA 31049.

The containerized longleaf pine seedlings are to be transported from Meeks’ Farm & Nursery Inc., 187 Flanders Rd., Kite, GA 31049 and delivered to planting sites on the Lower Suwannee NWR no earlier than two days prior to the commencement of planting operations.

Planting Method: Seedlings will be planted with the land’s natural contour in the spacing as recommended above with a hand planting crew supplied by the Tree Planting Contractor.

Planting areas may have been chemically treated for site preparation; however, hand planting may be complicated by natural vegetation. Some of the areas may have been controlled burned within the past year.

Other areas may have low ground cover such as grass with isolated areas of palmetto and some of the areas may be mowed or masticated.

The attached maps show general site locations. Sites could be larger or smaller and less in number than the map depicts depending on site preparation. However, any alterations to the sites will be located within the same general area, total acres and trees planted will remain the same. An updated map will be supplied to the contractor before planting.

1.5 Period of Performance: Between the dates December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027 as weather permits.

1.6 General Information: It is recommended, but not required, that all Contractors examine the site for operability limitations and verify acres. Bidders are to be fully informed of conditions and materials to be encountered (i.e., location of the site, quality, and quantity of work to be performed, materials to be furnished, the nature of the ground and surface, location of buried utilities, any conditions surrounding and affecting the work, obstructions, the nature of any existing construction, and all other physical characteristics of the job.)

1.6.1 Quality Control: The contractor shall develop and maintain an effective quality control program to ensure services are performed in accordance with this PWS. The contractor shall develop and implement procedures to identify, prevent, and ensure non-recurrence of defective services. The contractor’s quality control program is the means by which they assure themselves that their work complies with the requirement of the contract.

1.6.2 Quality Assurance: The government shall evaluate the contractor’s performance under this contract in accordance with the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan. This plan is primarily focused on what the Government must do to ensure that the contractor has performed in accordance with the performance standards. It defines how the performance standards will be applied, the frequency of surveillance, and the minimum acceptable defect rate(s).

1.6.3 Recognized Holidays: Not required to perfume services on holidays.

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

1.6.4 Hours of Operation: The contractor is responsible for conducting business, between daylight hours of operation Monday thru Friday except Federal holidays or when the Government facility is closed due to local or national emergencies, administrative closings, or similar Government directed facility closings.

For other than firm fixed price contracts, the contractor will not be reimbursed when the government facility is closed for the above reasons. The Contractor must at all times maintain an adequate workforce for the uninterrupted performance of all tasks defined within this PWS when the Government facility is not closed for the above reasons. When hiring personnel, the Contractor shall keep in mind that the stability and continuity of the workforce are essential.

1.6.5 Place of Performance: The work to be performed under this contract will be performed on the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge

1.6.6 Type of Contract: The government will award a (Type of contract to be determined by CO and the customer).

1.6.7 Security Requirements: Not applicable

1.6.7.1 PHYSICAL Security: The contractor shall be responsible for safeguarding all government equipment, information and property provided for contractor use. At the close of each work period, government facilities, equipment, and materials shall be secured.

1.6.7.2 Key Control. Not applicable

1.6.7.3 Lock Combinations: The Contractor shall establish and implement methods of ensuring that all lock combinations are not revealed to unauthorized persons. The Contractor shall ensure that lock combinations are changed when personnel having access to the combinations no longer have a need to know such combinations. These procedures shall be included in the Contractor’s Quality Control Plan.

1.6.8 Special Qualifications: Crew Forman or Crew Leader capable of communication in the English language.

1.6.9 Post Award Conference/Periodic Progress Meetings: The Contractor agrees to attend any post award conference convened by the contracting activity or contract administration office in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation Subpart 42.5. The contracting officer, Contracting Officers Representative (COR), and other Government personnel, as appropriate, may meet periodically with the contractor to review the contractor's performance. At these meetings the contracting officer will apprise the contractor of how the government views the contractor's performance and the contractor will apprise the Government of problems, if any, being experienced. Appropriate action shall be taken to resolve outstanding issues.

These meetings shall be at no additional cost to the government.

1.6.10 Contracting Officer Representative (COR): The (COR) will be identified by separate letter. The COR monitors all technical aspects of the contract and assists in contract administration The COR is authorized to perform the following functions: 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, including Government drawings, designs, specifications: monitor Contractor's performance and notifies both the Contracting Officer and Contractor of any deficiencies; coordinate availability of government furnished property, and provide site entry of Contractor personnel. A letter of designation issued to the COR, a copy of which is sent to the Contractor, states the responsibilities and limitations of the COR, especially with regard to changes in cost or price, estimates or changes in delivery dates. The COR is not authorized to change any of the terms and conditions of the resulting order.

1.6.11 Key Personnel: The following personnel are considered key personnel by the government: Crew Forman or Crew Leader. The contractor shall provide a contract manager who shall be responsible for the performance of the work. The name of this person and an alternate who shall act for the contractor when the manager is absent shall be designated in writing to the contracting officer. The contract manager or alternate shall have full authority to act for the contractor on all contract matters relating to daily operation of this contract. The contract manager or alternate shall be available between 8:00 a.m. to 4:30p.m., Monday through Friday except Federal holidays or when the government facility is closed for administrative reasons.

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

1.6.13 Contractor Travel: Not applicable

1.6.14 Other Direct Costs: Not applicable

1.6.15 Data Rights: Not applicable

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

1.6.17 PHASE IN /PHASE OUT PERIOD: Not applicable

PART 2

DEFINITIONS & ACRONYMS

2. DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS:

2.1. DEFINITIONS: Seedlings: one year old, 6 inches long, containerized native longleaf pine seedlings.

2.1.1. CONTRACTOR. A supplier or vendor awarded a contract to provide specific supplies or service to the government. The term used in this contract refers to the prime.

2.1.2. CONTRACTING OFFICER. A person with authority to enter into, administer, and or terminate contracts, and make related determinations and findings on behalf of the government. Note: The only individual who can legally bind the government.

2.1.3. CONTRACTING OFFICER'S REPRESENTATIVE (COR). An employee of the U.S. Government appointed by the contracting officer to administer the contract. Such appointment shall be in writing and shall state the scope of authority and limitations. This individual has authority to provide technical direction to the Contractor as long as that direction is within the scope of the contract, does not constitute a change, and has no funding implications. This individual does NOT have authority to change the terms and conditions of the contract.

2.1.4. DEFECTIVE SERVICE. A service output that does not meet the standard of performance associated with the Performance Work Statement.

2.1.5. DELIVERABLE. Anything that can be physically delivered, but may include non-manufactured things such as meeting minutes or reports.

2.1.6. KEY PERSONNEL. Contractor personnel that are evaluated in a source selection process and that may be required to be used in the performance of a contract by the Key Personnel listed in the PWS. When key personnel are used as an evaluation factor in best value procurement, an offer can be rejected if it does not have a firm commitment from the persons that are listed in the proposal.

2.1.7. PHYSICAL SECURITY. Actions that prevent the loss or damage of Government property.

2.1.8. QUALITY ASSURANCE. The government procedures to verify that services being performed by the Contractor are performed according to acceptable standards.

2.1.9. QUALITY ASSURANCE Surveillance Plan (QASP). An organized written document specifying the surveillance methodology to be used for surveillance of contractor performance.

2.1.10. QUALITY CONTROL. All necessary measures taken by the Contractor to assure that the quality of an end product or service shall meet contract requirements.

2.1.11. SUBCONTRACTOR. One that enters into a contract with a prime contractor. The Government does not have privity of contract with the subcontractor.

2.1.12. WORK DAY. The number of hours per day the Contractor provides services in accordance with the contract.

2.1.12. WORK WEEK. Monday through Friday, unless specified otherwise.

2.2. ACRONYMS:

ACOR Alternate Contracting Officer's Representative AFARS Army Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement

AR Army Regulation CCE Contracting Center of Excellence CFR Code of Federal Regulations CONUS Continental United States (excludes Alaska and Hawaii) COR Contracting Officer Representative COTR Contracting Officer's Technical Representative COTS Commercial-Off-the-Shelf DA Department of the Army DD250 Department of Defense Form 250 (Receiving Report) DD254 Department of Defense Contract Security Requirement List DFARS Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement DMDC Defense Manpower Data Center DOD Department of Defense FAR Federal Acquisition Regulation HIPAA Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 KO Contracting Officer OCI Organizational Conflict of Interest OCONUS Outside Continental United States (includes Alaska and Hawaii) ODC Other Direct Costs PIPO Phase In/Phase Out POC Point of Contact PRS Performance Requirements Summary PWS Performance Work Statement QA Quality Assurance QAP Quality Assurance Program QASP Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan QC Quality Control QCP Quality Control Program TE Technical Exhibit NWR Nation Wildlife Refuge

PART 3

GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT, AND SERVICES

3. GOVERNMENT FURNISHED ITEMS AND SERVICES:

3.1. Services: The Government will provide and identify all planting sites.

The Government will provide a digital format GPS file for the boundaries of the planting sites. The attached maps show general site locations. Sites could be larger or smaller and less in number than the map depicts depending on site preparation. However, any alterations to the sites will be located within the same general area, total acres and trees planted will remain the same. An updated map will be supplied to the contractor before planting.

3.2 Facilities: Not applicable

3.3 Utilities: Not applicable

3.4 Equipment: Not applicable

3.5 Materials: The Government will provide 136,000 containerized longleaf pine seedlings. Seedling will be located at Meeks’ Farm & Nursery Inc., 187 Flanders Rd., Kite, GA 31049.

PART 4

CONTRACTOR FURNISHED ITEMS AND SERVICES

4. CONTRACTOR FURNISHED ITEMS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

4.1 General: The Contractor shall furnish all supplies, equipment, facilities and services required to perform work under this contract that are not listed under Section 3 of this PWS.

4.2 Secret Facility Clearance: Not applicable

4.3. Materials: The contractor shall transport containerized longleaf pine seedlings from Meeks’ Farm & Nursery Inc., located at 187 Flanders Rd., Kite, GA 31049, and deliver them to designated planting sites on the Lower Suwannee NWR no earlier than two days prior to the commencement of planting operations.

4.4. Equipment: All equipment and labor to transport and handle seedlings and all equipment and labor for proper planting operations

PART 5

SPECIFIC TASKS

5. Specific Tasks:

5.1. Basic Services. The contractor shall provide services for all phases of tree planting

Special Conditions

1. A pre-entry conference with the Refuge Forester, contractor and tree planters will be held prior to any work in the planting unit.

2. The Contractor shall provide Refuge Forester a 7-day notice prior to the date they anticipate commencement of planting to allow the Forester sufficient time to coordinate with the seedling nursery.

3. The contractor will have access to only those lands described in the planting area and shall conduct planting operations during daylight hours.

4. The contractor (or their representatives) will not litter. Littering violations will be handled under Federal Code of Regulations 50CFR27.94(a).

5. All Refuge regulations apply unless superseded by these special conditions.

6. The Contractor will comply with the State of Florida Silviculture Best Management Practices as stated under the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Silviculture BMPs publication Silviculture Best Management Practices Manual. This publication can be found on the internet at (Silviculture Best Management Practices / Forest & Wildfire / Home - Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (fdacs.gov)).

7. The contractor shall notify the Refuge Forester of any oil or hazardous material spill as soon as possible. The contractor is responsible for cleanup and removal of any spilled oil or hazardous material.

8. The contractor shall provide all labor and equipment necessary for successful completion of the project.

9. The contractor shall comply with all LSNWR rules and regulations. Note that the LSNWR land is open to public use and hunting. Contractor personnel shall wear state approved hunter safety orange if working during refuge hunting season.

10. The contractor and/or their employees shall do all in their power to prevent and suppress forest fires; they shall pay the United States Government for any unnecessary damage resulting from the operation herein permitted; and shall repair all damages to roads, fences, gates, ditches, trails, telephone, and power lines resulting from the operation conducted hereunder except where otherwise provided for.

11. It is recommended, but not required, that all Contractors examine the site for operability limitations and verify acres. Bidders are to be fully informed of conditions and materials to be encountered (i.e., location of the site, quality, and quantity of work to be performed, materials to be furnished, the nature of the ground and surface, location of buried utilities, any conditions surrounding and affecting the work, obstructions, the nature of any existing construction, and all other https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Silviculture-Best-Management-Practices https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Silviculture-Best-Management-Practices physical characteristics of the job.)

Performance Requirements

1. The contractor shall transport containerized longleaf pine seedlings from Meeks’

Farm & Nursery Inc., located at 187 Flanders Rd., Kite, GA 31049, and deliver them to designated planting sites on the Lower Suwannee NWR no earlier than two days prior to the commencement of planting operations.

2. Contractor is responsible for meeting and unloading seedling delivery truck at drop points.

3. The contractor is responsible for transporting the containerized longleaf pine seedlings from drop points to all sites as shown on map.

4. The Contractor will hand plant 136,000 stems of containerized longleaf pine seedlings on 114 acres.

5. The planting density for the containerized longleaf pine seedlings will be ~1200 trees/stems per acre on an approximate 6’ by 6’ spacing.

6. Seedlings will be planted with the land’s natural contour in the spacing as described with a hand planting crew supplied by the Tree Planting Contractor between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027, as weather permits.

7. Seedlings shall be planted at the proper depth and spacing. The Refuge will use planting specifications from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Forest Service publication Tree Planting: Success or Failure Depends on You. This publication can be found on the internet at https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/For-Landowners/Programs-for- Landowners/Tree-Seedlings-for-Sale/Seedling-Care

8. The Refuge Forester shall monitor the planting operation with onsite inspections and audit planted areas.

9. The Refuge Forester shall select the area to begin work and shall determine the planting sequence of the sites.

10. The Refuge Forester shall approve the planting pattern. The planting pattern design must mimic a natural stand of pine; planting rows are acceptable, however the rows must curve to the contour of the terrain.

11. The planting foreman shall monitor planting density, spacing and method to ensure seedlings are correctly planted and make every effort to protect seedlings from sun, wind, and adverse temperature.

12. The contractor is required to cover seedling bundles/boxes. Reflective tarps or covered trailers are acceptable; seedlings bundles/boxes should be placed in shade where shade is present. Unused seedlings will be placed in a cool storage area at end of each planting day.

13. Containerized seedlings shall be handled in a manner so as not to break soil away from the root mass.

14. The Refuge Forester has the authority to have any sites replanted at vendor’s https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/For-Landowners/Programs-for-Landowners/Tree-Seedlings-for-Sale/Seedling-Care https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/For-Landowners/Programs-for-Landowners/Tree-Seedlings-for-Sale/Seedling-Care expense due to improper planting or contractor’s personnel mishandled seedlings.

15. The Refuge Forester has the authority to stop the planting operation anytime if unfavorable weather conditions prevail.

16. Contractor shall be responsible for cleanup of seedling bundles/boxes, containers, and wrapping materials. The contractor shall properly dispose, after planting, all seedling bundles, boxes, containers, and wrapping materials.

17. Contractor shall be responsible for any damage done by crew to gates, fences, roadways, or other improvements.

5.2. Task Heading. Trees will be planted within five days of onsite delivery.

PART 6

APPLICABLE PUBLICATIONS

6. APPLICABLE PUBLICATIONS (CURRENT EDITIONS)

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

The Refuge will use planting specifications from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Forest Service publication Tree Planting: Success or Failure Depends on You. This publication can be found on the internet at https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest- Wildfire/For-Landowners/Programs-for-Landowners/Tree-Seedlings-for-Sale/Seedling-Care

The Contractor will comply with the State of Florida Silviculture Best Management Practices as stated under the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Silviculture BMPs publication Silviculture Best Management Practices Manual. This publication can be found on the internet at (Silviculture Best Management Practices / Forest & Wildfire / Home - Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (fdacs.gov)).

PART 7

ATTACHMENT/TECHNICAL EXHIBIT LISTING

7. Attachment/Technical Exhibit List:

Attachment 1: Location Maps 1 and 2 Attachment 2: Technical Exhibit 1 – Performance Requirements https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/For-Landowners/Programs-for-Landowners/Tree-Seedlings-for-Sale/Seedling-Care https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/For-Landowners/Programs-for-Landowners/Tree-Seedlings-for-Sale/Seedling-Care

TECHNICAL EXHIBIT 1

Performance Requirements Summary The contractor service requirements are summarized into performance objectives that relate directly to mission essential items. The performance threshold briefly describes the minimum acceptable levels of service required for each requirement. These thresholds are critical to mission success.

Performance Objective (The Service required—usually a shall statement)

Standard Performance Threshold (This is the maximum error rate. It could possibly be “Zero deviation from standard”)

Method of Surveillance

PRS # 1.

Delivery of containerized longleaf pine seedlings.

The Contractor shall provide Refuge Forester a 7-day notice prior to the date they anticipate commencement of planting to allow the Forester sufficient time to coordinate with the seedling nursery.

The contractor shall transport seedlings from Meeks’ Farm & Nursery Inc., located at 187 Flanders Rd., Kite, GA 31049, and deliver them to designated planting sites no earlier than two days prior to the commencement of planting operations.

Contractor is responsible for meeting and unloading seedling delivery truck at drop points. The contractor is responsible for transporting the containerized longleaf pine seedlings from drop points to all sites as shown on map.

7 Day Notice before planting.

Deliver containerized longleaf pine seedlings. to designated planting sites no earlier than two days prior to the commencement of planting operations

100% Inspection and communication prior to delivery and planting start date.

PRS # 2

Planting time, spacing, density and method.

The Contractor will hand plant 136,000 stems of containerized longleaf pine seedlings on 114 acres.

The planting density for the containerized longleaf pine will be ~1200 trees/stems per acre on an approximate 6’ by 6’ spacing.

Seedlings will be planted with the land’s natural contour in the spacing as described with a hand planting crew supplied by the Tree Planting Contractor between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027, as weather permits.

Zero deviation from standard

Random sampling of planting density will be conducted by the Refuge Forester.

Measurements will be taken with 100th acre plot in the project area.

PRS # 3

Quality of tree planting, protection and care of containerized longleaf pine seedlings.

Seedlings shall be planted at the proper depth and spacing. The Refuge will use planting specifications from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Forest Service publication Tree Planting: Success or Failure Depends on You. This publication can be found on the internet at https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest- Wildfire/For-Landowners/Programs-for- Landowners/Tree-Seedlings-for- Sale/Seedling-Care

Zero deviation from standard

Random sampling will be conducted by the Refuge Forester.

Measurements will be taken in the project area.

PRS # 4

Cleanup and disposal.

Contractor shall be responsible for cleanup of seedling bundles/boxes, containers, and wrapping materials. The contractor shall properly dispose, after planting, all seedling bundles, boxes, containers, and wrapping materials.

Zero deviation from standard

100% Inspections of the sites and work area.

https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/For-Landowners/Programs-for-Landowners/Tree-Seedlings-for-Sale/Seedling-Care https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/For-Landowners/Programs-for-Landowners/Tree-Seedlings-for-Sale/Seedling-Care https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/For-Landowners/Programs-for-Landowners/Tree-Seedlings-for-Sale/Seedling-Care https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/For-Landowners/Programs-for-Landowners/Tree-Seedlings-for-Sale/Seedling-Care

QUALITY ASSURANCE SURVEILLANCE PLAN (QASP)

Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge

2026-2027 Tree Planting Project

CONTRACT NO.: Specify contract number

CONTRACTOR: Specify name of contractor

CONTRACTING OFFICER: Specify name of Contracting Officer

INSPECTOR(S): Daniel Barrand

TASK

DESCRIPTION

WHAT

WHO

WHEN

WHERE

METHOD

3.1 The Government will

provide and identify all planting sites.

The Government will provide a digital format GPS file for the boundaries of the planting sites

Maps and Shape files, Forestry flagging to identify sites to be planted.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site direct observation

3.5 Materials: The

Government will provide 136,000 containerized longleaf pine seedlings. Seedling will be located at Meeks’ Farm & Nursery Inc., 187 Flanders Rd., Kite, GA 31049.

The Government will provide 136,000 containerized longleaf pine seedlings.

COR or Refuge Forester

2 days before planting operations begin.

LSNWR

Project Site direct observation

4.1 The Contractor shall

furnish all supplies, equipment, facilities and services required to perform work under this contract that are not listed under Section 3 of this PWS

All equipment and labor to transport and handle seedlings and all equipment and labor for proper planting operations.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site direct observation

4.3 Containerized

longleaf pine seedlings delivery

The contractor shall transport trees from Meeks’ Farm & Nursery Inc., located at 187 Flanders Rd., Kite, GA 31049, and deliver them to designated planting sites on the Lower Suwannee NWR no earlier than two days prior to the commencement of planting operations.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site direct observation

5.1 7-day notice The Contractor shall provide Refuge Forester a 7-day notice prior to the date they anticipate commencement of planting to allow the Forester sufficient time to coordinate with the nursery.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site

100% Inspection and communicati on prior to delivery and planting start date.

5.1 Pre-entry conference A pre-entry

conference with the Refuge Forester, contractor and tree planters will be held prior to any work in the planting unit.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site direct observation

5.1 Access to sites/work

area

The contractor will have access to only those lands described in the planting area and shall conduct planting operations during daylight hours only.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site

5.1 LSNWR rules and

regulations

No littering. All Refuge regulations apply unless superseded by these special conditions.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site unscheduled inspections

5.1 BMP compliance The Contractor will

comply with the State of Florida Silviculture Best Management Practices as stated under the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Silviculture BMPs publication Silviculture Best Management Practices Manual.

This publication can be found on the internet at (Silviculture Best Management Practices / Forest & Wildfire / Home - Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (fdacs.gov)).

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site

5.1 Hazardous material

spill

The contractor shall notify the Refuge Forester of any oil or hazardous material spill as soon as possible. The contractor is responsible for cleanup and removal of any spilled oil or hazardous material.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site unscheduled inspections

5.1 Public use and safety The contractor shall

comply with all LSNWR rules and regulations. Note that the LSNWR land is open to public use and hunting. Contractor personnel shall wear state approved hunter safety orange if working during refuge hunting season.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site direct observation

5.1 Fires The contractor

and/or their employees shall do all in their power to prevent and suppress forest fires.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site

5.1 Seedlings on site

delivery.

Contractor is responsible for meeting and unloading seedling delivery truck at drop points.

The contractor is responsible for transporting the containerized longleaf pine seedlings from drop points to all sites as shown on map.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site direct observation

5.1 Seedling planting:

amount, spacing, density, method and time.

The Contractor will hand plant 136,000 stems of containerized longleaf pine seedlings on 114 acres.

The planting density for the containerized longleaf pine will be ~1200 trees/stems per acre on an approximate 6’ by 6’ spacing.

Seedlings will be planted with the land’s natural contour in the spacing as described with a hand planting crew supplied by the Tree Planting Contractor.

Planting rows is acceptable however the rows must curve to the contour of the terrain.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027, as weather permits.

LSNWR

Project Site direct observation and perform random sampling of some operations

5.1 Quality of tree

planting, protection and care of containerized longleaf pine seedlings.

Seedlings shall be planted at the proper depth and spacing.

The Refuge will use planting specifications from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Forest Service publication Tree Planting:

Success or Failure Depends on You.

This publication can be found on the internet at https://www.fdacs.g ov/Forest- Wildfire/For- Landowners/Progra ms-for- Landowners/Tree- Seedlings-for- Sale/Seedling-Care

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site direct observation and perform random sampling of some operations

5.1 Planting Crew

Supervisor/Forman.

The planting foreman shall monitor planting density, spacing, and method to ensure seedlings are correctly planted and make every effort to protect seedlings from sun, wind, and adverse temperature.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site direct observation and perform random sampling of some operations

5.1 Seedling protection. The contractor is

required to cover seedling bundles/boxes.

Reflective tarps or covered trailers are acceptable, seedlings bundles/boxes will be placed shade where shade is present. Unused seedlings will be placed in a covered storage area at end of each planting day.

Containerized seedlings shall be handled in a manner so as not to break soil away from the root mass.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site direct observation and perform random sampling of some operations

5.1 Cleanup and

disposal.

Contractor shall be responsible for cleanup of seedling bundles, boxes, containers, and wrapping materials.

The contractor shall properly dispose, after planting, all seedling bundles, boxes, containers, and wrapping materials.

COR or Refuge Forester

Between December 7, 2026, and completed by February 5, 2027

LSNWR

Project Site

● The QASP is not part of the Performance Work Statement (PWS) and is not part of the contract.

● The QASP:

-- is mandatory for performance-based services acquisitions -- is required by the FAR -- describes what will be inspected, who will do the inspection, when and where they will do it, and how they will do it -- is an internal document that describes HOW the Government will verify WHAT it is paying for -- is an inspection plan to determine if the contractor produced the results required by the PWS -- does not go to the contractor

● Prepare the QASP at the same time you’re preparing the SOW; however, the Government can either prepare the QASP or have the offerors submit a proposed QASP for the Government to consider in developing the Government’s plan.

● FAR does not specify format for QASP.

● Your inspections must focus on the contractor’s results, not its processes, unless the PWS specifies processes for some tasks.

● Determine if service is a PROJECT or an OPERATION.

● A PROJECT is one result to inspect, unless you inspect intermediate results, e.g., mopping floors, emptying wastebaskets.

● An OPERATION is continuous or repetitive performance. You must decide whether to inspect each instance of the performance of a task (which is called 100% inspection) or only some instances, e.g., providing maintenance services for Government-owned computer equipment. You may want to review validated customer complaints, unscheduled inspections, perform random sampling of some operations, and conduct 100% inspection on other operations.

● If using performance incentives, these incentives must correspond to specific performance standards in the QASP and must be capable of being measured objectively.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge, has a need for Tree Planting under RFQ# 140F1G26Q0080. Please see the attached Performance work statement document for additional details.

I. Type of Contract:

The Government contemplates award of a firm-fixed price contract resulting from this solicitation.

II. Quote Instructions:

1) Submission of questions

a) Interested vendors must submit any questions concerning the solicitation by Tuesday 08/25/2026 at 5:00PM CDT. Questions may be submitted via email to john_skogen@ios.doi.gov.

2) Submission of quotes

a) Quotes are to be submitted via email to john_skogen@ios.doi.gov by Thursday 08/27/2028 at

5:00 PM CDT.

3) Period for acceptance of quote

a) The vendor agrees quotes will be valid for at least 60 calendar days from the date specified for receipt of quotations.

4) Late submissions, modifications, revisions, and withdrawals of quotes.

a) Vendors are responsible for submitting quotes, and any modifications, revisions, or withdrawals, so as to reach the Government office designated in the solicitation by the time specified in the solicitation. Any quote, modification, revision, or withdrawal of a quote received at the Government office designated in the solicitation after the exact time specified for receipt of quotes is "late" and will not be considered unless it is received before award is made, the Contracting Officer determines that accepting the late quote would not unduly delay the acquisition. However, a late modification of an otherwise successful quote, that makes its terms more favorable to the Government, will be considered at any time it is received and may be accepted.

III. Specific Quote Instructions

1) The vendor is to submit a price quote with descriptive literature (including pictures when applicable) that clearly identifies the proposed product or service and provides sufficient detail to enable the Government to determine compliance with all requirements specified in the requirements document.

2) Pricing shall be for a 1-year period.

mailto:%20lorenzo_aragon@fws.gov.

IV. Evaluation Factors

1) Factor 1 – Technical Acceptability (Pass/Fail) The Government will evaluate the offeror’s quote to verify compliance with all requirements in the solicitation and requirements document.

• Pass: Quote meets all mandatory requirements.

• Fail: Quote does not meet one or more mandatory requirements.

2) Factor 2 – Past Performance (Pass/Fail)

Past performance will be evaluated to determine acceptability only. The Government will review past performance information from CPARS, and other sources.

• Acceptability: Offeror demonstrates satisfactory performance on similar contracts and has no terminations for cause or default within the past three (3) years.

• Unacceptability: Offeror has a record of unsatisfactory performance or one or more terminations for cause or default within the past three (3) years.

3) Factor 3 – Price Price will be evaluated for reasonableness. Award will be made to the lowest-priced offeror whose quote is technically acceptable and whose past performance is acceptable.

52.252-2 Clauses Incorporated by Reference. (FEB 1998)

This contract incorporates one or more clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. Also, the full text of a clause may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es):

For FAR Clauses: http://acquisition.gov/far/index.html

1- Clauses Incorporated by Reference

52.203-13 Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (Nov 2021)

52.203-17 Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights and Requirement To Inform Employees of

Whistleblower Rights. (Nov 2023)

52.203-19 Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements

(Jan 2017)

52.204-13 System for Award Management - Maintenance (Mar 2026)

52.204-14 Service Contract Reporting Requirements (Mar 2026)

52.204-19 Incorporation by Reference of Representations and Certifications. (Dec 2014)

52.209-6 Protecting the Government's Interest When Subcontracting with Contractors Debarred, Suspended, Proposed for Debarment, or Voluntarily Excluded (May 2026)

52.209-10 Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (May 2026)

52.212-4 Terms and Conditions-Commercial Products and Commercial Services. (Mar 2026)

52.222-3 Convict Labor (May 2026)

52.222-35 Equal Opportunity for Veterans (May 2026)

52.222-36 Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (May 2026)

52.222-37 Employment Reports on Veterans (May 2026)

52.222-50 Combating Trafficking in Persons (May 2026)

52.222-90 Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors (May 2026)

52.222-62 Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (DEVIATION DATE)

52.226-8 Encouraging Contractor Policies to Ban Tec Messaging While Driving (May 2024)

52.227-14 Rights in Data-General (May 2014)

52.232-33 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer-System for Award Management (Oct 2018)

52.233-3 Protest after Award (DEVIATION DATE)

52.233-4 Applicable Law for Breach of Contract Claim (DEVIATION DATE)

52.240-91 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions (DEVIATION DATE)

52.240-93 Basic Safeguarding of Covered Contractor Information Systems (DEVIATION DATE)

52.242-15 Stop-Work Order (Aug 1989)

2- Full Text Clauses

52.225-8 Duty-Free Entry

As prescribed in 25.1101(e), insert the following clause:

Duty-Free Entry (Oct 2025)

(a) Definition. "Customs territory of the United States" means the States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

(b) Except as otherwise approved by the Contracting Officer, the Contractor shall not include in the contract price any amount for duties on supplies specifically identified in the Schedule to be accorded duty-free entry.

(c) Except as provided in paragraph (d) of this clause or elsewhere in this contract, the following procedures apply to supplies not identified in the Schedule to be accorded duty-free entry:

(1) The Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer in writing of any purchase of foreign supplies (including, without limitation, raw materials, components, and intermediate assemblies) in excess of $20,000 that are to be imported into the customs territory of the United States for delivery to the Government under this contract, either as end products or for incorporation into end products. The Contractor shall furnish the notice to the Contracting Officer at least 20 calendar days before the importation. The notice shall identify the-

(i) Foreign supplies;

(ii) Estimated amount of duty; and

(iii) Country of origin.

(2) The Contracting Officer will determine whether any of these supplies should be accorded duty-free entry and will notify the Contractor within 10 calendar days after receipt of the Contractor’s notification.

(3) Except as otherwise approved by the Contracting Officer, the contract price shall be reduced by (or the allowable cost shall not include) the amount of duty that would be payable if the supplies were not entered duty-free.

(d) The Contractor is not required to provide the notification under paragraph (c) of this clause for purchases of foreign supplies if-

(1) The supplies are identical in nature to items purchased by the Contractor or any subcontractor in connection with its commercial business; and

(2) Segregation of these supplies to ensure use only on Government contracts containing duty-free entry provisions is not economical or feasible.

(e) The Contractor shall claim duty-free entry only for supplies to be delivered to the Government under this contract, either as end products or incorporated into end products, and shall pay duty on supplies, or any portion of them, other than scrap, salvage, or competitive sale authorized by the Contracting Officer, diverted to nongovernmental use.

(f) The Government will execute any required duty-free entry certificates for supplies to be accorded duty-free entry and will assist the Contractor in obtaining duty-free entry for these supplies.

(g) Shipping documents for supplies to be accorded duty-free entry shall consign the shipments to the contracting agency in care of the Contractor and shall include the-

(1) Delivery address of the Contractor (or contracting agency, if appropriate);

(2) Government prime contract number;

(3) Identification of carrier;

(4) Notation "UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT, _____ [agency] _____, Duty-free entry to be claimed pursuant to Item No(s) _____ [from Tariff Schedules] _____, Harmonized Tariff Schedules of the United States. Upon arrival of shipment at port of entry, District Director of Customs, please release shipment under 19 CFR Part 142 and notify [cognizant contract administration office]for execution of Customs Forms7501 and 7501-A and any required duty-free entry certificates.";

(5) Gross weight in pounds (if freight is based on space tonnage, state cubic feet in addition to gross shipping weight); and

(6) Estimated value in United States dollars.

(h) The Contractor shall instruct the foreign supplier to-

(1) Consign the shipment as specified in paragraph (g) of this clause;

(2) Mark all packages with the words "UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT" and the title of the contracting agency; and

(3) Include with the shipment at least two copies of the bill of lading (or other shipping document) for use by the District Director of Customs at the port of entry.

(i) The Contractor shall provide written notice to the cognizant contract administration office immediately after notification by the Contracting Officer that duty-free entry will be accorded foreign supplies or, for duty-free supplies identified in the Schedule, upon award by the Contractor to the overseas supplier. The notice shall identify the-

(1) Foreign supplies;

(2) Country of origin;

(3) Contract number; and

(4) Scheduled delivery date(s).

(j) The Contractor shall include the substance of this clause in any subcontract if -

(1) Supplies identified in the Schedule to be accorded duty-free entry will be imported into the customs territory of the United States; or

(2) Other foreign supplies in excess of $20,000 may be imported into the customs territory of the United States.

(End of clause)

52.246-1 Contractor Inspection Requirements.

As prescribed in 46.301 , insert the following clause:

Contractor Inspection Requirements (Apr 1984)

The Contractor is responsible for performing or having performed all inspections and tests necessary to…