Sol_140G0223Q0029.pdf

140G0223Q0029

1. REQUEST NO.

5a. ISSUED BY

NAME

a. NAME

c. STREET ADDRESS

d. CITY

10. PLEASE FURNISH QUOTATIONS TO

THE ISSUING OFFICE IN BLOCK 5a ON

OR BEFORE CLOSE OF BUSINESS (Date)

2. DATE ISSUED 3. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQUEST NO. 4. CERT. FOR NAT. DEF.

UNDER BDSA REG. 2

AND/OR DMS REG.1

RATING

6. DELIVERY BY (Date)

7. DELIVERY

9. DESTINATION

a. NAME OF CONSIGNEE

b. STREET ADDRESS

PAGE OF PAGES

5b. FOR INFORMATION CALL: (No collect calls)

TELEPHONE NUMBER

AREA CODE NUMBER

8. TO:

b. COMPANY

e. STATE f. ZIP CODE

c. CITY

d. STATE e. ZIP CODE

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 services. Supplies are of domestic origin unless otherwise indicated by quoter. Any representations and/or certifications attached to this Request for Quotations must be completed by the quoter.

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

THIS RFQ

REQUEST FOR QUOTATION

(THIS IS NOT AN ORDER)

IS IS NOT A SMALL BUSINESS SET ASIDEX

02/08/2023 0040604160

1 23

PO BOX 25046

204 DENVER FEDERAL CENTER

DENVER CO 80225-0046

USGS OAG DENVER ACQUISITION BRANCH

Multiple

USGS Minnesota Water Science Center

2280 Woodale Drive

Mounds View

MN 55112

303 236-9318Irma Suryaty

02/15/2023 1200 ES

FOB DESTINATION

OTHER

(See Schedule)X

ITEM NO.

(a)

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

(b)

QUANTITY

(c)

UNIT

(d)

UNIT PRICE

(e)

AMOUNT

(f)

Period of Performance: 03/06/2023 to 03/05/2025

00010 SERVICE, NON-PERSONAL TO PROVIDE ALL PLANT,

EQUIPMENT, SUPERVISION, LABOR, TRAVEL,

AND MATERIALS (UNLESS OTHERWISE PROVIDED HEREIN)

NECESSARY FOR ON-SITE/OFF-SITE PERSONNEL

TO PROVIDE SEDIMENT AND WATER SAMPLING ANALYSIS

SERVICES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ATTACHED

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT, AND ALL TERMS

AND CONDITIONS.

Product/Service Code: B510 Product/Service Description: SPECIAL Continued ...

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

13. NAME AND ADDRESS OF QUOTER

b. STREET ADDRESS

c. COUNTY

d. CITY e. STATE f. ZIP CODE

14. SIGNATURE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO

SIGN QUOTATION

16. SIGNER

a. NAME (Type or print)

c. TITLE (Type or print)

a. NAME OF QUOTER

AREA CODE

NUMBER

15. DATE OF QUOTATION

b. TELEPHONE are are not attached

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

Previous edition not usable

STANDARD FORM 18 (REV. 6-95)

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

ITEM NO. SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

NAME OF OFFEROR OR CONTRACTOR

2 23

CONTINUATION SHEET

REFERENCE NO. OF DOCUMENT BEING CONTINUED PAGE OF

(A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)

140G0223Q0029

STUDIES/ANALYSIS- ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENTS

Period of Performance: 01/15/2023 to 01/31/2025

00020 SHIPPING

Product/Service Code: R706

Product/Service Description: SUPPORT- MANAGEMENT:

LOGISTICS SUPPORT

Delivery: 01/31/2025

Period of Performance: 01/15/2023 to 01/31/2025

NSN 7540-01-152-8067 OPTIONAL FORM 336 (4-86)

Request for Quote (RFQ) 140G0223Q0029 Sediment and Water Sampling Service

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT STATUTES OR

EXECUTIVE ORDERS-COMMERCIAL ITEMS (DEC 2022)

52.232-1 PAYMENTS (APR 1984)

52.244-6 SUBCONTRACTS FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (JAN 2022)

52.245-2 GOVERNMENT PROPERTY INSTALLATION OPERATION SERVICES (APR 2021)

52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

GS0339 GREEN ACQUISITION (JUL 2018)

GS0919 LEGAL HOLIDAY (JAN 2002)

GS1131 UNILATERAL DEOBLIGATION OF UNEXPENDED FUNDS (MAY 2013)

GS1364 NON-PERSONAL SERVICES AND SUPERVISION OF CONTRACTOR’S EMPLOYEES

DOI ELECTRONIC INVOICING ELECTRONIC INVOICING AND PAYMENT REQUIREMENTS -

INVOICE PROCESSING PLATFORM (IPP) (APR 2013)

PROVISION

52.225-25 PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTING WITH ENTITIES ENGAGING IN CERTAIN

ACTIVITIES OR TRANSACTIONS RELATING TO IRAN—REPRESENTATION AND

CERTIFICATIONS (JUN 2020)

BASIS FOR AWARD

QUOTE PREPARATION

QUOTATION SUBMISSION

ADDENDUM TO PROVISION 52.212-1

AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

A. Introduction. The Department of the Interior (DOI), U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Upper

Midwest Water Science Center (USGS UMid WSC), 2280 Woodale Drive, Mounds View, MN 55112, requires technical assistance from a contractor for field site section and oversight of sample collection within the Rainy River basin including collection, shipment, and storage of suspended sediment and water quality samples, as part of an ongoing effort to evaluate the sediment and sediment bound phosphorus delivery from the Rainy River and its tributaries to the Lake of the Woods. Services required include: (1) Collection of water quality samples as part of an existing load monitoring network, (2) collection, storage, and processing of suspended sediment using suspended sediment samplers deployed in channel and a field centrifuge to condense the samples; (3) sample prep and shipment to analyzing laboratory.

B. Background. Lake of the Woods (LoW) is a vital economic, cultural, and natural resource for northern Minnesota, providing critical habitat and generating tens-of-millions of dollars of tourism revenue annually. Despite major reductions in total-phosphorus (TP) concentrations entering LoW, its economic and ecological integrity is still threatened by excess phosphorus and harmful algal blooms. Historical loading has created a long-term source of phosphorus bound to lake-bottom sediments. While we know from previous studies that the Rainy River contributes 45-75% of the TP entering downstream LoW, we lack detailed information describing the sediment-bound phosphorus that has accumulated through current and historical loading in this river network, and its potential to be released and transported.

This study will show where sediment-bound phosphorus is stored in the Rainy River and its tributaries, and whether that storage is permanent or if it may become a long-term source. The results of this study will point provide context for riverine inputs of phosphorus from the Rainy River and its tributaries, describing their potential role in downstream nutrient availability. These results are critical for local resource managers required to find targeted reductions in TP loading to reduce noxious algae in LoW.

To meet these objectives, the USGS, in partnership with contracted collaborators, will examine storage and mobility of sediment-bound phosphorus by mapping stream-bed fine-sediment deposits, collecting suspended-sediment from the Rainy River, its largest tributaries, and Fourmile Bay, and analyzing these sediments for phosphorus concentrations and potential for phosphorus binding and release. In all sampled locations, sediment chemistry will be paired with water chemistry to identify hotspots of phosphorus retention and release. An existing load monitoring network will be bolstered by adding sites and parameters that will help to characterize the forms of phosphorus in transport throughout the Rainy River and from its largest tributaries on the U.S. side. Suspended sediment will be collected using passive samplers and will be analyzed for phosphorus forms and potential bioavailability in downstream LoW. These data will support our understanding of how sediment-bound phosphorus loading from Rainy River and its tributaries to LoW may influence algal blooms in these vital border waters.

C. Definitions/Applicable Documents.

Phosphorus – a primary nutrient used by all living things that is commonly a limiting factor for growth of algae in freshwaters, and when in excess, can fuel harmful algal blooms. Phosphorus readily binds to sediment, and can be released under specific conditions, leading to persistence of phosphorus in river networks and its potential to become a long-term source in receiving waters such as Lake of the Woods.

D. Scope. Services to provide all equipment, labor, travel, and materials (unless otherwise provided herein) necessary for site management and sample collection at the sites. The following services are required and are described in detail in the Technical Requirements section:

1. Collection and Handling of suspended sediment a.

Installation of suspended sediment samplers provided by USGS, following USGS technical guidelines.

b. Servicing of samplers on a flow-based/time-based schedule, including collection of sediment, condensing of sediment using USGS field centrifuge equipment and protocols, and preservation of sample in cold storage. This will involve tracking of storm events and river water levels and communication with USGS regarding timing of sample collection.

c. Shipment of material (on ice) via priority overnight post to the selected analytical laboratory.

d. Reporting to USGS and receiving laboratory the Estimated Time Arrival (ETAs) of shipments, documenting sample collection dates, times, field conditions, and any water chemistry parameters collected concurrently. A template for documenting will be provided.

2. Water quality and load monitoring

a. Collection of water samples across all hydrologic conditions, including multiple intervals during storm events (rising limb, peak, and falling limb), and under baseflow conditions, with a total of approximately 26-30 samples over the monitoring season, including quality assurance and control samples. Sample collection, processing, and preservation methods will follow Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Watershed Pollutant Load Monitoring Program guidelines and protocols and samples will be sent to a laboratory certified by the Minnesota Department of Health.

b. Transportation and shipment (on ice) overnight of samples to analyzing laboratory.

c. Reporting ETAs of shipments to receiving laboratory and USGS and documenting and reporting event and monthly sample collections.

d. Communication with state collaborators responsible for load analysis.

e. Collection of quality assurance samples including field equipment blanks and replicate samples filtered, processed, and preserved in the field or lab on the day of collection.

II. WORK REQUIREMENTS

USGS UMIDWSC staff will be responsible for providing required equipment and tutorials on use of equipment for sample filtration and passive sediment sample collection and processing.

A. Contractor Work/Technical Requirements.

1. Site selection. The contractor shall:

a. Operate and continue to manage current water quality load monitoring sites and assist the

USGS with establishment of new water quality load monitoring sites within Koochiching County as follows.

Location Current or New Monitoring Location

Rainy River at Boat Landing blw International Falls, MN New

Little Fork River at Little Fork, MN Current

Big Fork River at Big Falls, MN Current

b. Assist a second contractor based in Lake of the Woods County on an as needed basis with the operation of the following sites, and with processing samples from both the sites listed in A1a and A1b of this Technical Requirements section:

Location Current or New Monitoring Location

Rainy River at Manitou Rapids, MN New Rapid River at Clementson, MN11 Current Rainy River at Baudette New Rainy River at Wheeler's Point New

c. For each of the load monitoring locations listed in A1a above, determine and communicate to USGS the best possible instream locations for suspended sediment samplers to provide paired water and sediment samples at each location.

2. Suspended sediment sample collection. The contractor shall:

a. Prioritize the collection of suspended sediment following storm events, sampling as soon after the event as the samplers can be safely retrieved by wading. Retrieve passive samplers, empty into 5-gallon buckets, taking care to transfer as much of the sediment from the sampler to bucket as possible to ensure minimal loss of collected suspended sediment, using native water and non-metal equipment such as a plastic scraper.

b. Clean suspended sediment samplers by rinsing with native water and scrubbing if necessary to remove extra material and redeploy into the channel. Ensure this collection and cleaning is done monthly if storm events sampled are more than one month apart.

c. Condense suspended sediment using a field centrifuge provided by USGS, creating a composite sediment sample integrating each of the passive samplers at a given site. If this cannot be done immediately following collection, keep 5-gallon bucket samples in cold storage and process next day. The contractor shall arrange for cold storage, noting that this will require substantial space and may involve 30 or more 5-gallon buckets.

This may require arranging sampling schedule to allow for next day processing.

d. Following condensing and proper labeling and storage; ship suspended sediment samples on ice in coolers via overnight priority shipping to the USGS UMid WSC in Mounds View, MN for further processing.

e. Document sample collection and processing using templated spreadsheet from USGS and share this documentation with USGS.

3. Water quality sample collection. The contractor shall:

a. As part of an existing pollutant load monitoring program with Minnesota Pollution

Control Agency (MPCA), collect water quality samples using the contractor’s own equipment (Van Dorn sampler, etc) and methods consistent with current load monitoring program at the locations within Koochiching County identified in part A1a of the above Technical Requirements. Samples analyses may include:

PARAMETER

Nitrate/Nitrite as N (N+N) Nitrogen, Total Kjeldahl Ammonia

Phosphorus, Total as P Total Dissolved Phosphorus Orthophosphate as P (LF) Total Dissolved Solids Total Volatile Solids Chlorophyll-a

b. Organize, label, and preserve water quality samples for transport to analyzing laboratory according to MPCA Load Monitoring Program protocols.

c. Communicate with the lab and share the chain of custody for each shipment with USGS.

4. Written communication. The contractor shall:

a. Document the sample name/ID number, date, time, and type of samples collected and shipped each following each event following USGS conventions and using USGS templates provided.

b. Document and report to USGS the shipment tracking numbers for each batch sent to the analyzing laboratory.

c. Report any concerns or request for additional equipment when identified at the sites during the sampling process.

B. Deliverables.

1. The contractor shall provide a final log of all water and suspended sediment samples collected, processed, and shipped during the project timeline from each site as described in section A4 of the Technical Requirements.

III. SUPPORTING INFORMATION

A. Place of Performance. All field activities will be carried out at the locations identified in A1a and A1b of the Technical Requirements, with this contract focusing on Koochiching County and providing assistance as needed for sites in Lake of the Woods County. Condensing of suspended sediment will be carried out at the contractor’s office and requires AC power supply for the centrifuge. The contractor shall arrange for cold storage of suspended sediment samples within the study area counties (Koochiching and Lake of the Woods Counties). The contractor shall transport the suspended sediment and water quality samples following collection to carrier for shipment or directly to the analyzing laboratory for further processing and analysis.

B. Period of Performance. The contractor shall provide updated documentation of sampling to the

USGS within 7 days of each sample collection event. A written summary (in Excel table format) of all samples collected and shipped during the study will be provided within 30 days of completion of the sampling period for the study. Water quality sample collection will take place over the course of approximately one year beginning when the contract is awarded. Suspended sediment sample collection is anticipated to occur between March and October, with analyses following collection.

Both water and sediment sampling are rain event and streamflow dependent, and therefore may extend beyond a single year if required to capture the target range of hydrologic conditions.

C. Government Furnished Property (GFP): Field centrifuge, as described in https://www.usgs.gov/news/technical-announcement/new-usgs-field-method-breakthrough-contaminant-analysis-water-samples.

D. Special Considerations.

1. Key personnel qualifications: The contractor’s field personnel must possess a minimum of 5 years’ experience in collection of water quality samples using methods consistent with the State of Minnesota’s Pollutant Load Monitoring Program. The contractor’s personnel must also possess experience with the collection of samples from passive suspended sediment samplers, or familiarity with these methods. Preference will be given to contractors who have experience with water quality monitoring within Koochiching County or the rivers listed in A1a of the Technical Requirements, and who are located within no greater than 100 miles of all of the field sites.

2. Data Rights: The Government has the rights to all data collected as part of this project.

3. Safety: The contractor shall provide a safety plan with the solicitation, which shall be adhered to during work performance.

3. Hazardous Waste. The contractor is responsible for and shall dispose of all hazardous material used in the preparation of samples at no additional cost to the government.

IV. QUALITY ASSURANCE SURVEILLANCE PLAN (QASP)

The contractor is responsible for quality control including the collection of field equipment blanks and replicate samples. The contractor shall provide a quality control plan with their solicitation response and shall adhere to the plan during performance.

The Government is responsible for quality assurance. The Technical Liaison (TL) will inspect/review the final report and will determine if the summary of data collection presented is complete. If the report is not complete, within 60 days of receiving the report, the TL can formally request (via email) that the contractor revise the report at no additional cost to the USGS. A revised report must be provided to the USGS within 30 days of the request.

52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT STATUTES

OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS-COMMERCIAL ITEMS (DEC 2022)

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

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

(2) 52.204-23, Prohibition on Contracting for Hardware, Software, and Services Developed or Provided by Kaspersky Lab and Other Covered Entities (Nov 2021) (Section 1634 of Pub. L. 115-91).

(3) 52.204-25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (Nov 2021) (Section 889(a)(1)(A) of Pub. L. 115-232).

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

(5) 52.233-3, Protest After Award (Aug 1996) ( 31 U.S.C. 3553). Alternate I (Jun 1985)

Performance Measure

QA Objective Acceptable Quality Level

Inspection Technique

Safe work environment Maintain safe work environment during the collection (at site) and transport and analysis of samples.

Adhere to OSHA, state, and federal laws, and regulations during vehicle use and sampling, and analysis.

Prior to operations, USGS Technical Representative (TR) will review sampling and analysis plans.

Safe work environment onboard vessel

Maintain safe work areas while performing on-water sampling and travel

Adhere to OSHA, state, and federal laws and regulations during on-water sample collection

Prior to sampling, USGS TR will support and review sampling plan.

Project inspections Ensure project meets tasks specified within work statement

Timelines are met and tasks are completed according to work statement.

USGS TR will communicate with contractor regarding sampling and analysis status.

Project work files Maintain documentation of samples collected and analyzed.

Contractor maintains accurate and up-to-date describing samples collected and analyses completed.

Communication with contractor and inspection of workplan by USGS TR

Task closeout Timely completion of all contract requirements

Accurate and timely delivery of sample data, Site close out, and documentation of results to USGS TR.

Review by USGS TR.

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

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

[Contracting Officer check as appropriate.]

__ (1) 52.203-6, Restrictions on Subcontractor Sales to the Government (Jun 2020), with Alternate I (Nov 2021) ( 41 U.S.C. 4704 and 10 U.S.C. 4655).

__ (2) 52.203-13, Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (Nov 2021) ( 41 U.S.C. 3509)).

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

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

__ (5) [Reserved].

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

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

(8) 52.209-6, Protecting the Government’s Interest When Subcontracting with Contractors Debarred, Suspended, or Proposed for Debarment. (Nov 2021) ( 31 U.S.C. 6101 note).

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

__ (10) [Reserved].

__ (11) 52.219-3, Notice of HUBZone Set-Aside or Sole-Source Award (Oct 2022) ( 15 U.S.C.

657a).

__ (12) 52.219-4, Notice of Price Evaluation Preference for HUBZone Small Business Concerns (Oct 2022) (if the offeror elects to waive the preference, it shall so indicate in its offer) ( 15 U.S.C. 657a).

__ (13) [Reserved] __ (14) (i) 52.219-6, Notice of Total Small Business Set-Aside (Nov 2020) ( 15 U.S.C. 644).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Mar 2020) of 52.219-6.

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

__ (ii) Alternate I (Mar 2020) of 52.219-7.

__ (16) 52.219-8, Utilization of Small Business Concerns (Oct 2022) ( 15 U.S.C. 637(d)(2) and (3)).

__ (17) (i) 52.219-9, Small Business Subcontracting Plan (Oct 2022) ( 15 U.S.C. 637(d)(4)).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Nov 2016) of 52.219-9.

__ (iii) Alternate II (Nov 2016) of 52.219-9.

__ (iv) Alternate III (Jun 2020) of 52.219-9.

__ (v) Alternate IV (Sep 2021) of 52.219-9.

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

__ (ii) Alternate I (Mar 2020) of 52.219-13.

__ (19) 52.219-14, Limitations on Subcontracting (Oct 2022) ( 15 U.S.C. 637s).

__ (20) 52.219-16, Liquidated Damages—Subcontracting Plan (Sep 2021) ( 15 U.S.C.

637(d)(4)(F)(i)).

__ (21) 52.219-27, Notice of Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Set-Aside (Oct 2022) ( 15 U.S.C. 657f).

(22) (i) 52.219-28, Post Award Small Business Program Rerepresentation (Oct 2022) ( 15 U.S.C.

632(a)(2)).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Mar 2020) of 52.219-28.

__ (23) 52.219-29, Notice of Set-Aside for, or Sole-Source Award to, Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business Concerns (Oct 2022) ( 15 U.S.C. 637(m)).

__ (24) 52.219-30, Notice of Set-Aside for, or Sole-Source Award to, Women-Owned Small

Business Concerns Eligible Under the Women-Owned Small Business Program (Oct 2022) ( 15 U.S.C.

637(m)).

__ (25) 52.219-32, Orders Issued Directly Under Small Business Reserves (Mar 2020) ( 15 U.S.C.

644(r)).

__ (26) 52.219-33, Nonmanufacturer Rule (Sep 2021) ( 15U.S.C. 637(a)(17)).

(27) 52.222-3, Convict Labor (Jun 2003) (E.O.11755).

__ (28) 52.222-19, Child Labor-Cooperation with Authorities and Remedies (Dec 2022) (E.O.13126).

(29) 52.222-21, Prohibition of Segregated Facilities (Apr 2015).

(30) (i) 52.222-26, Equal Opportunity (Sep 2016) (E.O.11246).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Feb 1999) of 52.222-26.

__ (31) (i) 52.222-35, Equal Opportunity for Veterans (Jun 2020) ( 38 U.S.C. 4212).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Jul 2014) of 52.222-35.

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

__ (ii) Alternate I (Jul 2014) of 52.222-36.

__ (33) 52.222-37, Employment Reports on Veterans (Jun 2020) ( 38 U.S.C. 4212).

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

(35) (i) 52.222-50, Combating Trafficking in Persons (Nov 2021) ( 22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O. 13627).

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

__ (36) 52.222-54, Employment Eligibility Verification (May 2022) (Executive Order 12989). (Not applicable to the acquisition of commercially available off-the-shelf items or certain other types of commercial products or commercial services as prescribed in FAR 22.1803.)

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

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

__ (38) 52.223-11, Ozone-Depleting Substances and High Global Warming Potential Hydrofluorocarbons (Jun 2016) (E.O. 13693).

__ (39) 52.223-12, Maintenance, Service, Repair, or Disposal of Refrigeration Equipment and Air Conditioners (Jun 2016) (E.O. 13693).

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

__ (ii) Alternate I (Oct 2015) of 52.223-13.

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

__ (ii) Alternate I (Jun2014) of 52.223-14.

__ (42) 52.223-15, Energy Efficiency in Energy-Consuming Products (May 2020) ( 42 U.S.C.

8259b).

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

__ (ii) Alternate I (Jun 2014) of 52.223-16.

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

__ (45) 52.223-20, Aerosols (Jun 2016) (E.O. 13693).

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

__ (47) (i) 52.224-3 Privacy Training (Jan 2017) (5 U.S.C. 552 a).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Jan 2017) of 52.224-3.

__ (48) (i) 52.225-1, Buy American-Supplies (Oct 2022) ( 41 U.S.C. chapter 83).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Oct 2022) of 52.225-1.

__ (49) (i) 52.225-3, Buy American-Free Trade Agreements-Israeli Trade Act (Dec 2022) ( 19 U.S.C. 3301 note, 19 U.S.C. 2112 note, 19 U.S.C. 3805 note, 19 U.S.C. 4001 note, 19 U.S.C. chapter 29 (sections 4501-4732), Public Law 103-182, 108-77, 108-78, 108-286, 108-302, 109-53, 109-169, 109-283, 110-138, 112-41, 112-42, and 112-43.

__ (ii) Alternate I [Reserved].

__ (iii) Alternate II (Dec 2022) of 52.225-3.

__ (iv) Alternate III (Jan 2021) of 52.225-3.

__ (v) Alternate IV (Oct 2022) of 52.225-3.

__ (50) 52.225-5, Trade Agreements (Dec 2022) ( 19 U.S.C. 2501, et seq., 19 U.S.C. 3301 note).

(51) 52.225-13, Restrictions on Certain Foreign Purchases (Feb 2021) (E.O.’s, proclamations, and statutes administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Department of the Treasury).

__ (52) 52.225-26, Contractors Performing Private Security Functions Outside the United States (Oct 2016) (Section 862, as amended, of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008; 10 U.S.C. Subtitle A, Part V, Subpart G Note).

__ (53) 52.226-4, Notice of Disaster or Emergency Area Set-Aside (Nov 2007) ( 42 U.S.C. 5150).

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

__ (55) 52.229-12, Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements (Feb 2021).

__ (56) 52.232-29, Terms for Financing of Purchases of Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2021) ( 41 U.S.C. 4505, 10 U.S.C. 3805).

__ (57) 52.232-30, Installment Payments for Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2021) ( 41 U.S.C. 4505, 10 U.S.C. 3805).

(58) 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer-System for Award Management (Oct2018) ( 31 U.S.C. 3332).

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

__ (60) 52.232-36, Payment by Third Party (May 2014) ( 31 U.S.C. 3332).

__ (61) 52.239-1, Privacy or Security Safeguards (Aug 1996) ( 5 U.S.C. 552a).

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

__ (63) (i) 52.247-64, Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (Nov 2021) ( 46 U.S.C. 55305 and 10 U.S.C. 2631).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Apr 2003) of 52.247-64.

__ (iii) Alternate II (Nov 2021) of 52.247-64.

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

[Contracting Officer check as appropriate.]

__ (1) 52.222-41, Service Contract Labor Standards (Aug 2018) ( 41 U.S.C. chapter67).

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

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

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

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

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

(7) 52.222-55, Minimum Wages for Contractor Workers Under Executive Order 14026 (Jan 2022).

__ (8) 52.222-62, Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (Jan 2022) (E.O. 13706).

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

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

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

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

Records relating to appeals under the disputes clause or to litigation or the settlement of claims arising under or relating to this contract shall be made available until such appeals, litigation, or claims are finally resolved.

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

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

(i) 52.203-13, Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (Nov 2021) ( 41 U.S.C. 3509).

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

(iii) 52.204-23, Prohibition on Contracting for Hardware, Software, and Services Developed or Provided by Kaspersky Lab and Other Covered Entities (Nov 2021) (Section 1634 of Pub. L. 115-91).

(iv) 52.204-25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (Nov 2021) (Section 889(a)(1)(A) of Pub. L. 115-232).

(v) 52.219-8, Utilization of Small Business Concerns (Oct 2022) ( 15 U.S.C. 637(d)(2) and (3)), in all subcontracts that offer further subcontracting opportunities. If the subcontract (except subcontracts to small business concerns) exceeds the applicable threshold specified in FAR 19.702(a) on the date of subcontract award, the subcontractor must include 52.219-8 in lower tier subcontracts that offer subcontracting opportunities.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(xiii) (A) 52.222-50, Combating Trafficking in Persons (Nov 2021) ( 22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O 13627).

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

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

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

(xvi) 52.222-54, Employment Eligibility Verification (May 2022) (E.O. 12989).

(xvii) 52.222-55, Minimum Wages for Contractor Workers Under Executive Order 14026 (Jan 2022).

(xviii) 52.222-62, Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (Jan 2022) (E.O. 13706).

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

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

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

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

(xxii) 52.247-64, Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (Nov 2021) ( 46 U.S.C. 55305 and 10 U.S.C. 2631). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph (d) of FAR clause 52.247-64.

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

52.232-1 PAYMENTS (APR 1984)

The Government shall pay the Contractor, upon the submission of proper invoices or vouchers, the prices stipulated in this contract for supplies delivered and accepted or services rendered and accepted, less any deductions provided in this contract. Unless otherwise specified in this contract, payment shall be made on partial deliveries accepted by the Government if-

(a) The amount due on the deliveries warrants it; or

(b) The Contractor requests it and the amount due on the deliveries is at least $1,000 or 50 percent of the total contract price.

52.244-6 SUBCONTRACTS FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (JAN 2022)

(a) Definitions. As used in this clause—

Commercial product, commercial service and commercially available off-the-shelf item have the meanings contained in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 2.101.

Subcontract includes a transfer of commercial products or commercial services between divisions, subsidiaries, or affiliates of the Contractor or subcontractor at any tier.

(b) To the maximum extent practicable, the Contractor shall incorporate, and require its subcontractors at all tiers to incorporate, commercial products, commercial services, or non-developmental items as components of items to be supplied under this contract.

(c) (1) The Contractor shall insert the following clauses in subcontracts for commercial products or commercial services:

(i) 52.203-13, Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (Nov 2021) ( 41 U.S.C. 3509), if the subcontract exceeds the threshold specified in FAR 3.1004(a) on the date of subcontract award, and has a performance period of more than 120 days. In altering this clause to identify the appropriate parties, all disclosures of violation of the civil False Claims Act or of Federal criminal law shall be directed to the agency Office of the Inspector General, with a copy to the Contracting Officer.

(ii) 52.203-15, Whistleblower Protections Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Jun 2010) (Section 1553 of Pub. L. 111-5), if the subcontract is funded under the Recovery Act.

(iii) 52.203-19, Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (Jan 2017).

(iv) 52.204-21, Basic Safeguarding of Covered Contractor Information Systems (Nov 2021) , other than subcontracts for commercially available off-the-shelf items, if flow down is required in accordance with paragraph (c) of FAR clause 52.204-21.

(v) 52.204-23, Prohibition on Contracting for Hardware, Software, and Services Developed or Provided by Kaspersky Lab and Other Covered Entities (Nov 2021) (Section 1634 of Pub. L. 115-91).

(vi) 52.204-25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (Nov 2021) (Section 889(a)(1)(A) of Pub. L. 115-232).

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

(viii) 52.222-21, Prohibition of Segregated Facilities (Apr 2015).

(ix) 52.222-26, Equal Opportunity (Sept 2016) (E.O.11246).

(x) 52.222-35, Equal Opportunity for Veterans (Jun 2020) ( 38 U.S.C.4212(a));

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

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

(xiii) 52.222-40, Notification of Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act (Dec 2010) (E.O. 13496), if flow down is required in accordance with paragraph (f) of FAR clause 52.222-40.

(xiv) (A) 52.222-50, Combating Trafficking in Persons (Nov 2021) ( 22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O. 13627).

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

(xv) 52.222-55, Minimum Wages for Contractor Workers under Executive Order 14026 (Jan 2022), if flow down is required in accordance with paragraph (k) of FAR clause 52.222-55.

(xvi) 52.222-62, Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (Jan 2022) (E.O. 13706), if flow down is required in accordance with paragraph (m) of FAR clause 52.222-62.

(xvii) (A) 52.224-3, Privacy Training (Jan 2017) ( 5 U.S.C. 552a) if flow down is required in accordance with 52.224-3(f).

(B) Alternate I (Jan 2017) of 52.224-3, if flow down is required in accordance with 52.224- 3(f) and the agency specifies that only its agency-provided training is acceptable).

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

(xix) 52.232-40, Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (Nov 2021) , if flow down is required in accordance with paragraph (c) of FAR clause 52.232-40.

(xx) 52.247-64, Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (Nov 2021) ( 46 U.S.C. 55305 and 10 U.S.C.2631), if flow down is required in accordance with paragraph (d) of FAR clause 52.247-64).

(2) While not required, the Contractor may flow down to subcontracts for commercial products or commercial services a minimal number of additional clauses necessary to satisfy its contractual obligations.

(d) The Contractor shall include the terms of this clause, including this paragraph (d), in subcontracts awarded under this contract.

52.245-2 GOVERNMENT PROPERTY INSTALLATION OPERATION SERVICES (APR 2021)

(a) This Government Property listed in paragraph (e) of this clause is furnished to the Contractor in an "as-is, where is" condition. The Government makes no warranty regarding the suitability for use of the Government property specified in this contract. The Contractor shall be afforded the opportunity to inspect the Government property as specified in the solicitation.

(b) The Government bears no responsibility for repair or replacement of any lost Government property.

If any or all of the Government property is lost or becomes no longer usable, the Contractor shall be responsible for replacement of the property at Contractor expense. The Contractor shall have title to all replacement property and shall continue to be responsible for contract performance.

(c) Unless the Contracting Officer determines otherwise, the Government abandons all rights and title to unserviceable and scrap property resulting from contract performance. Upon notification to the Contracting Officer, the Contractor shall remove such property from the Government premises and dispose of it at Contractor expense.

(d) Except as provided in this clause, Government property furnished under this contract shall be governed by the Government Property clause of this contract.

(e) Government property provided under this clause:

• Commercial Data Logger (Zonge Zen/6 receiver)

• 3 Induction Coil Magnetometers (Zonge ANT-4)

• 4 Non-polarizing Electrode (Borin Stelth)

• Spooled wire (100m wire, single spool)

• 2 Sealed Lithium polymer battery packs

• 1 Sealed Pb-acid battery pack

• Ancillary cabling

• Tool kit

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):

https://www.acquisition.gov/far/

52.204-13 System for Award Management Maintenance. (AUG 2020) 52.204-18 Commercial and Government Entity Code Maintenance (AUG 2020) 52.204-19 Incorporated by Reference of Representations and Certifications (DEC 2014) 52.209-10 Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporation (NOV 2015) 52.212-4 Contract Terms and Conditions - Commercial Items. (JAN 2017) 52.232-39 Unenforceability of Unauthorized Obligations. (JUN 2013) 52.232-40 Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors. (DEC 2013) 52.233-1 Disputes (MAY 2014) 52.242-15 Stop Work Order (AUG 1989)

GS0339 GREEN ACQUISITION (JUL 2018)

The USGS is committed to promoting the natural environment and protecting the health and well-being of people. In the performance of work under this contract, the Contractor shall exert its best efforts to provide services in a manner that will promote the natural environment and protect health and well-being. Green purchasing or environmentally preferable contracting includes the initiatives described below:

Alternative Fuels and Vehicles are described at http://www.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/

Biobased Products are described at http://www.biopreferred.gov/

Energy efficient products are described at http://energystar.gov/products for Energy Star products and at http://www.eere.energy.gov/femp/procurement for FEMP designated products.

Environmentally Preferable Computers are described at http://www.epeat.net

Significant New Alternatives Program (SNAP) are described at http://www.epa.gov/snap/overview-snap

The Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines promote the use of recovered and recycled products at https://www.epa.gov/smm/comprehensive-procurement-guideline-cpg-program

Water efficient products and services are described at https://www.epa.gov/watersense

GS0919 LEGAL HOLIDAY (JAN 2002)

The following legal holidays are observed by this Government agency:

New Year's Day January 01 Martin Luther King's Birthday 3rd Monday in January Presidents Day 3rd Monday in February Memorial Day Last Monday in May Juneteenth June 19 Independence Day July 04 Labor Day 1st Monday in September Columbus Day 2nd Monday in October Veterans Day November 11 Thanksgiving Day 4th Thursday in November Christmas Day December 25 https://www.epa.gov/watersense

When a holiday falls on Saturday or Sunday, it is observed on the adjacent Friday or Monday, respectively.

In addition to the holidays listed above, the contractor agrees to observe leave days or closures designated by Federal Statute, Executive Order, or Presidential Proclamation.

GS1131 UNILATERAL DEOBLIGATION OF UNEXPENDED FUNDS (MAY 2013)

The contractor shall submit all invoices under the award no later than 90 calendar days after the period of performance has expired, unless a request for extension has been submitted to the Contracting Officer.

After 120 days has passed since the expiration of the performance period, the government reserves the right to issue a unilateral modification deobligating any unexpended funds, and to initiate closeout procedures.

GS1348 ACCIDENT REPORTING (APR 2003)

If an accident occurs on Government-controlled facilities, a report must be provided to the Contracting Officer's Representative and the Contracting Officer within 48 hours. An accident is defined as an event which causes injury, illness, or loss or damage to Government-owned or private property. The contractor will cooperate with any ensuing Government accident investigation.

GS1364 NON-PERSONAL SERVICES AND SUPERVISION OF CONTRACTOR’S EMPLOYEES

a. This contract is a “nonpersonal services contract” as defined in FAR 37.101. It is therefore, understood and agreed that the contractor and/or the contractor’s employees:

(1) shall perform the services specified herein as independent contractors, not as employees of the government;

(2) shall request clarification in writing from the Contracting Officer if the Contractor finds it necessary with respect to the scope of services to be performed or the manner in which the services are to be performed hereunder;

(3) shall be responsible for their own management and administration of the work required and bear sole responsibility for complying with any and all technical, schedule, or financial requirements or constraints attendant to the performance of this contract;

(4) shall be free from supervision, direction or control by any government employee with respect to the manner or method of performance of the services specified; but

(5) shall comply with such general direction of the Contracting Officer (or the duly authorized representative) pursuant to the government’s right and obligation to inspect, accept or reject the work as is necessary to ensure accomplishment of the contract objectives.

(6) shall not be at any time during the contract period employees of the U.S. Government.

b. The contractor's employees and subcontractors must make clear, in dealings with the public, federal employees, or other contractors that they are not federal employees. To minimize possible confusion, contractors and subcontractors are not permitted to wear clothing or other items (apart from official identity credential) bearing the name, logo, or seal of the U.S. Geological Survey while performing work under this contract.

c. The Government and the Contractor recognize and agree that no employer-employee relationship exists or will exist under the contract between the Government and the Contractor’s personnel. Both parties agree to each of the following:

(1) Entitlement and benefits, including worker’s compensation, applicable…