Solicitation Attachment 01 Region 05 Professional Forest Services IDIQ SOW.docx

Attachment 01 Region 05 Professional Forestry SOW

REGION 05

PROFESSIONAL FORESTRY SERVICES IDIQ

STATEMENT OF WORK

STAND EXAM DATA COLLECTION (FIA/ CSE)

Representative Area

Plots will be established across all types of terrain across thousands of acres. Foot travel up to two miles from roadways will be necessary for plot measurements.

The protocol for Inventory plot Installation and Common Stand Exam can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/nrm/fsveg/index.shtml within their respective User Guides.

LAYOUT, MARKING AND CRUISING

1.1 Unit Layout

Locate and flag cutting units as identified on timber sale area planning maps using aerial photos, topographical maps and GPS.

Sketch a map of each unit and include existing landings and skid trails and temporary roads. Include logging feasibility and logging system. Include access to units via existing roads, reconstructed roads or new road construction. Show location of streams, stream class, survey monuments and sensitive areas such as landslides or other areas of resource concerns.

Consider economic viability for each unit. Evaluate pieces per turn, flight distances and volumes per acre. The minimum harvestable volume per acre by logging system will be defined in individual task orders. Areas on the edges of units that do not meet the minimum harvestable volume should be flagged out of the unit.

Contractor is advised to do a preliminary survey of each unit prior to installing boundaries and notify COR if notable differences exist in the logical unit placement when compared to mapped locations on timber sale area planning map. Changes in boundary locations shall be made if necessary for logistics, feasibility of logging system, resource protection, substantial mortality or economics. Significant changes must be approved by COR. Proposed changes that would include areas outside of mapped boundaries may not be possible due to lack of existing NEPA coverage.

Boundaries of all cutting units shall be designated with inter-visible flagging described in specific project task orders. All contract unit boundaries will be clearly located on the ground.

The cutting unit corners and boundary intersections with roads shall be identified as follows: Write sale name, unit number, and location of corner (for example Smoky TS, Unit # 100, SW Corner) with paint pens on flagging and plastic signs provided by the government.

1.2 Unit Boundary Designation

All contract unit boundaries will be clearly located on the ground. Painted boundary trees will be inter-visible, will not be designated for harvest, and be of a size that will remain standing after logging. The paint application should provide for clear and unquestionable placement of the unit boundaries. Boundaries along permanent roads can be left unmarked where the features are so conspicuous that they can be identified from the sale area map alone.

Cutting unit boundaries shall be designated with the color of paint described in specific project task orders. Tree marking paint must contain the registered tracer element, which will be provided by the government. Painted boundaries shall follow the flagged lines. All painted boundary trees will have attention marks applied at or above eye level and two stump marks below stump height on the uphill and downhill sides of the tree. The line of sight between painted boundary trees is considered the official boundary.

The cutting unit corners and boundary intersections with roads shall be identified as follows: Write sale name, unit number, and location of corner (for example Smoky TS, Unit # 100, SW Corner) with paint pen, flagging and plastic signs.

1.3 Area Determination

Every cutting unit boundary shall be mapped with a global positioning system device (GPS). Mapping and acreage determination shall meet the direction set forth in FSH 2409.12 Chapter 50. The polygon shapes must represent the unit boundaries on the ground. Shapefiles shall be projected in Datum UTM NAD83 Zone (10 or appropriate Zone for the geographic location).

The GPS data shall be in a format compatible with ArcMap version 10.3 / ArcPro version 2.5.1 or with the version the forest is currently using. Final GPS data shall be exported by the Contractor as shapefiles (.shp). Contractor shall maintain a secure backup of GPS data for 60 days following transfer to the Forest Service to allow for verification of data.

If conditions on specific units make it impractical or impossible to receive sufficient satellite signals, traditional survey techniques (distance and bearing), or a combination of GPS and traditional survey techniques may be used, with approval of COR. Recollect data if the established standards are not met.

Cutting units shall have a GPS area error of less than 10 percent of the area measured. If a traditional distance and direction survey is implemented, the error of closure must be better than 1:50 on units less than 20 acres and better than 1:100 on units greater than 20 acres. Depending on device and GPS processing software used, the use of the Forest Service software Two Trails may be required. Distance and direction surveys not meeting the above requirements shall have a verification traverse. A different crew must run the verification traverse than performed the original survey. A distance-direction survey that does not meet the error standards above can only be accepted if the difference in acreage between the original survey and the verification survey is less than 10 percent.

Contractor will provide documentation with the applicable survey method, GPS error by unit, equipment used to traverse units, canopy coverage estimates (light, medium, or heavy), accuracy based on receiver and conditions from the Missoula Technology and Development Center (MTDC) matrix, projection, coordinate system, and datum. Include names of personnel responsible for data collection, list the programs used to process the data, and note any changes or corrections. If a verification traverse was done include both original and verification traverses.

The MTDC matrix can be found at:

https://www.fs.usda.gov/database/gps/mtdcrept/accuracy/index.htm

1.4 Cruise Design and Plan

The cruise will be designed to achieve a maximum sampling error according to FSH 2409.12 Chapter 40. The maximum sampling error for any one stratum is 30% for tree measurement sales and 40% for scaled sales.

Document the estimated volume by stratum, coefficient of variation, and the method used to determine these values (Pre-cruise, stand exam, or similar sale). Determine which sampling method will be the most efficient and economical from the list below. Major species groups within each stratum, which are those that comprise 10% or more of the estimated sale value, must be in separate sample groups. The cruise must be designed for a minimum of 20 measure trees per sample group per stratum. Species with the same appraised value including WF and RF, PP and JP, and SP and WWP should be in the same sample group.

At a minimum, the sale should be stratified by the planned logging system, marking/designation method, and product.

The cruise plan should contain a brief description of the management objectives and the legal description of the project area. Include all calculations made to allocate the sampling error, the number of samples needed by strata and sub-population, plot size or BAF if applicable, population distribution by strata and sample group, and selection frequency by sample group.

Provide written cruise instructions on how plots or measure trees will be identified on the ground. Include instruction on how to measure plots that fall near the unit boundary. These instructions must be approved prior to implementation. The COR can provide sample instructions upon request. Ensure a consistent method of measuring boundary plots is described in the cruise instructions. Acceptable methods include mirage, walk-through, and half plots. The half-plot method must be used for sales with virtual boundaries. Plots falling outside of treatment area boundaries will not be measured.

1.5 Acceptable Cruise Methods

The Contractor will choose the appropriate cruise system(s) from the following methods, which are described in FSH 2409.12, chapter 30. Unless otherwise agreed, use area-based cruise methods for strata with significant amounts of either leave tree marking or designations that do not include paint, such as by designation by spacing or prescription. Use tree-based cruise methods for stratum with significant amounts of individually marked cut trees.

a. 100 Percent Cruise (100)

b. Sample Tree (STR)

c. Fixed Plots (FIX)

d. Point Sampling (Variable Plot) (PNT)

e. 3P Sampling (3P)

f. Point Count Measure (PCM)

g. Fixed Count Measure Tree (FCM)

h. Fixed 3P (F3P)

Cruise instructions must include a list of product minimum specifications and included species. Product specifications include the associated contract minimum and maximum DBH, piece length, and top DIB.

Provide a list of cruisers and their unique stump marks.

If it becomes necessary to modify the cruise plan after implementation has begun, the contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer Representative and prepare an addendum to the plan. Add the date of the addendum to the cover page of the plan. Follow the standards and guidelines in FSH 2409.12 chapter 40.

1.6 Timber Cruising

The intent of the timber cruise is to provide the Forest Service with a cruise report and file to facilitate the timber appraisal process. If the cruise design and plan was prepared by Contractor, all cruising performed under this contract shall meet the sampling error requirements set forth in FSH 2409.12, chapter 40. All data collected shall meet the accuracy requirements in FSH 2409.12, chapter 60.

1) If the Contractor provides the project cruise design and plan, the actual cruise the target sampling errors stated in the cruise plan. If these errors are not met and additional samples can be obtained in an unbiased manner, Contractor must supplement the cruise to correct deficiency. Additional samples cannot be added to tree-based cruise methods, particularly 3P, unless insurance trees have been previously identified. A complete re-cruise may be necessary for strata with tree-based cruise methods that do not meet the specified error standards. A reasonable number of measurements per sample group must be taken.

2) The Contractor will ensure each cruiser has written cruise instructions on how plots or measure trees will be identified on the ground, how measure trees will be selected, measurements to be recorded, plot locations, boundary plot directions, and any other information necessary to conduct a proper cruise.

3) Field data recorders with the applicable Forest Service cruising software must be used during data collection for tree-based cruise methods. Unless otherwise agreed, the Contractor shall provide and process cruise data using the most current versions of Forest Service cruising software. The applicable electronic cruise files (.cruise, .out, .html, .pdf files) will be provided to the Forest Service on a weekly or otherwise agreed to basis throughout the cruise implementation.

4) All measurements and defect determinations will be done in accordance with FSH 2409.12, Chapters 10 and 20. Document reasons for defect deductions on measure trees. Record all unusual features at plot locations which may influence cruise procedures, hence accuracy (excessive slope, blowdown patch, hazardous conditions, etc.).

5) The names of cruisers must be documented for each unit. Unless otherwise agreed, cruisers shall manually record cruise tree information and notes on a Timber Cruise Data Sheet that is available in the back of the Timber Cruise Reference Guide. It is recommended that Contractor periodically record tallies and/or sum of KPI by sample group to ensure timber cruise data can be re-entered into a field data recorder if the file becomes damaged.

A. Cruise Implementation:

Cruise the tree that is randomly or systematically selected as a measure tree.

1) Do not manipulate cruise tree selection (add or delete measure trees outside of the planned frequency) if the actual selection of measure trees appears higher or lower than planned. Notify the COR or designee if the design frequencies appear to be falling short of meeting the target errors or number of measure trees. Any frequency adjustments require a new stratum. All strata must meet the applicable error limits.

2) If a species is discovered that is not in the cruise file, add it into the applicable sample group for minor species in the cruise file(s) and notify the COR or designee.

3) Faulty equipment that is out of adjustment and not reading measurements correctly shall be replaced and measurements taken with this equipment shall be re-measured.

4) Plots must be located on a systematic grid. Do not drop or move a boundary plot if the center falls inside the harvest unit.

B. Plot And Measure Tree Locations:

The Contractor shall supply cruise maps for each unit with the actual location of plot centers, cruise trees, and insurance trees. If cruise trees and/or plots were located with GPS, provide the shapefiles to the COR or designee. If plots are not located using GPS coordinates, Contractor shall hang flagging with distance and direction to nearest plot on adjacent roads. Contractor is encouraged to use unique plot and tree numbers for all samples. Plots are established on a systematic, unbiased grid.

C. Cruise Evaluation:

Prior to the commencement of cruising the cruise must be evaluated by a Forest Service check cruiser and meet standards described in FSH 2409.12. Chapter 60. The evaluation includes office data audits and field measurement comparisons.

The number of samples checked during a field review depends on the cruise method.

1. Sample tree. Check the lesser of 15 trees or 50% of measured trees for each major species.

2. 3P. Check the larger of ten percent of the measured trees or 25 trees for 3P sampling strata.

3. For all other cruise methods, Check at least 35 trees on a sale check cruise. These trees should represent all major species and should be selected thorough out the sale.

If check cruise does not meet minimum standards, check ten additional trees for each major species.

If the results are still unsatisfactory, a complete or partial re-cruise may be required, depending on the issue(s) identified. A description of elements checked and associated tolerances can be found in Chapter 60, Section II.5.

1.7 Designation (Tree Marking) of Cut or Leave Trees

All marking shall meet the standards and guidelines in the Timber Cruising Handbook WO and R5 Supplements of FSH 2409.12, Chapter 70, and the forest’s Timber Theft Prevention Plan (TTPP).

List all included units, the min and max DBH (if unit specific) for all products and applicable designation (Leave Tree Mark, Individual (cut) Tree Mark, or other):

When selecting cut or leave trees, Contractor shall follow the provided Silvicultural prescriptions and/or Marking Guidelines. In addition to the following:

a. The contractor shall designate trees that meet the marking guidelines as cut trees in ITM units and leave trees in LTM units.

b. Cut trees in ITM units will be marked with tracer paint and leave trees in LTM units will be marked with tracer paint. Paint a highly visible attention band 2” wide at eye level. The attention mark shall be visible from 360 degrees and from at least 50 feet, unless stated otherwise in specific project task orders. The contractor shall paint two personalized stump marks on all marked trees. The stump marks shall be placed in the furrows of the bark at ground level on the downhill and uphill sides of the trees. Stump marks should touch the ground and be at least 2” wide.

c. Measure tree designations for trees not in plots will include a painted band approximately 1 foot above the original mark and painted cruise tree numbers at eye level and on opposite sides of the tree. If insurance trees are part of this project, paint the same as a cruise tree but add an (I) in front of the cruise tree number. Hang several flags around the cruise tree. Write the cruise tree number, unit number and cruiser’s initials in permanent ink on one of the attention flags. GPS or mark on a map the location of the cruise tree.

d. Use BLACK tracer paint to cancel a mark on a tree. Apply black marks as described in individual task orders. The original marking shall be only partially obscured so it will be obvious that this tree was deleted from the timber sale. The black paint must be visible from all directions. Note areas with extensive deleted trees on a map.

e. Record the amount of marking paint used by color and batch number for each unit.

2. Project Location & Description

Region Five (5) National Forests, Pacific Southwest Region. These are the National Forests within the state of California and portions of Nevada on the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit and the Inyo National Forest. Other federal land management agencies within or immediately adjacent to the state of California may place orders against this contract.

3. Maps Maps will be provided for each individual task order.

4. Estimated Start Date & Contract Time The estimated contract award date is June 15, 2023. The contract will have a five-year ordering period.

5. Restrictions on Work Work may be performed at any time during the period of the contract, except as outlined here. Nothing in this part shall be construed to take away any of the Government's rights under the Suspension of Work Clause (52.242-14). Restrictions are as follows:

6. Licenses and Insurance The contractor shall obtain the insurance and licenses listed here.

MSPA Card (Form WH510): This contract [ ] does [ X ] does not require the contractor to be registered with the US Department of Labor as a Farm Labor Contractor. The Contractor shall provide a current Form WH510 or legible copy.

7. Camping and Housing Camping is not permitted in US Forest Service campgrounds. Contractor [ X ] may [ ] may not be permitted to camp elsewhere on US Forest Service land. Camping will be based on receiving a camping permit from the Ranger District. Camping on Forest Service land is not a right; permission may be revoked for failure to comply with the terms of the permit.

8. Contractor-Furnished Equipment Contractor Furnished Property The Contractor will furnish the following: All labor, housing, supervision, transportation, personal protective equipment PPE, and any incidentals necessary to perform the requirements of the contract. Specifically, but not necessarily all inclusive, the Contractor shall furnish:

1. Global Positioning System unit (GPS) able to meet specifications described in the Area Determination section (FSH 2409.12, chapter 50).

2. Field data recorders compatible with required software

3. Compass with azimuth settings set to local declination.

4. Clinometers and/or lasers.

5. Timber Cruising Equipment

6. Paint Marking guns.

7. flagging (color as agreed)

9. Government-Furnished Equipment Government Furnished Property:

The Government will furnish the following in either hardcopy or electronic formats:

1. Applicable chapters of Forest Service Handbook 2409.12 - Timber Cruising Handbook, along with regional supplements.

2. Current Timber Cruise Reference Guide.

3. The most recent version of the Forest’s Timber Theft Detection and Prevention Plan.

4. Project area map and unit maps.

5. Shapefiles of project planning units.

6. Photocopies of aerial photos if requested.

7. Silvicultural Marking Guidelines by unit, if applicable.

8. Tree Marking Paint with registered tracer and material safety data sheets. Tree Marking Paint Handling and Accountability:

i. Responsible Party – The contractor must view the “Tree Marking Paint Video” at:

website https://fsweb.wo.fs.fed.us/ntdp/program/forest-and-rangeland-management-and-vegetation-ecology/tree-marking-paint/ .

The Contractor must designate, in writing, one or two individuals to receive, dispose of, and maintain inventory and control of all tracer paint.

ii. Issuing Tracer Paint – Paint shall be issued to the Contractor’s designated representative(s), as described location in each task order during normal business hours. Only the amount of paint needed for an estimated 7-day marking will be issued. No paint will be issued or returned without the approved Paint Accountability Form(s). A receipt signed by FS and Contractor representatives will be produced.

iii. Control Records – It will be the responsibility of the Contractor to keep an accurate inventory to show all paint cans received, used, and returned empty to the Forest Service on the tracer Paint Inventory Sheet. This form is to be available for inspection at the Government’s request at any time. When Contractor is receiving or returning paint or paint cans, this form must be filled out by the Contractor and the Forest Service Paint Custodian. No paint will be issued or returned without the form.

iv. Storage of Paint – Tracer paint not in use shall be stored in a locked facility or truck box approved by the Forest Service. The access to the locked paint will be by the Contractor’s designated personnel only. Empty cans will also be stored in the locked facility or truck box until returned to the Forest Service.

v. Transportation and Use of Tracer Paint – Each vehicle used for transport and the temporary storage of tracer paint shall be equipped with a secure locked box. Paint, including empties, shall be locked any time individuals are away from the vehicle. When tracer paint is not being used daily, unused, partial, and empty containers should be returned to the locked facility.

vi. Disposal of Tracer Paint Containers – Empty tracer paint containers shall be returned to the Forest Service, weekly, for disposal. All empty cans shall be returned to their proper box and any residual paint drained into another paint can for use in the field. Aerosol containers must be fully emptied in the field by holding the can upright and holding the nozzle tip down until all the propellant has been discharged. Cans that malfunction because of paint and/or propellant cannot be fully emptied must be given to the COR or inspector to be disposed of as hazardous waste.

vii. Forest Service Monitoring – Forest Service will inspect Contractor’s security of tracer paint and accountability records. Inspections shall be unannounced. Security and accountability must be always maintained. Forest Service will periodically check for the use of tracer paint on marked trees. This shall be done at a minimum of once per week during the contract marking period.

viii. Contractor’s Non-Compliance – Contractor’s non-compliance of the security and/or accountability of tracer paint can result in Contractor’s liability for special damages or default of the contract in addition to violation of Federal Regulations.

ix. Missing or Lost Paint – If the Contractor loses paint, a diligent effort to find the missing can(s) is required. The Contracting Officer shall be notified immediately. In the event the paint is lost, the contract will be suspended until the matter is resolved. Following a thorough search and the can is not located, documentation needs to be developed identifying whether the can was empty or full, the color, batch number and container size, the unit it was lost in or likely locations the missing can may be, and all actions taken to locate the missing can. Any lost paint may carry a fine of $2,000 per can.

x. Stolen Paint – If paint is stolen, the Contracting Officer shall be notified immediately. All work will be suspended pending the results of the investigation.

xi. Material Safety Data Sheets - The contractor will be responsible for posting Material Safety Data Sheets. Material Safety Data Sheets will be furnished by the COR with the Tree Marking Paint.

INSPECTIONS AND ACCEPTANCE

1. Inspections Government inspections are for the purpose of satisfying the Government that the services are acceptable and do not relieve the Contractor of the responsibility for maintaining quality control.

The Contracting Officer's Representative or designated inspector will conduct all inspections. The Contractor (or designated representative) is encouraged to be present to observe inspections. Summary results will be made available on request.

Compliance Inspections. Visual compliance inspections will be made on a periodic basis. Such inspections are not final and do not constitute acceptance by the Government.

Final Inspections. Final (formal) inspections for payment will be made on completed sub-items only. Contractor shall request final inspections in writing and give the Forest Service at least two working days advanced notice. Inspections will begin within four working days after the notice is received. If the work is not ready for inspection at the time specified by the Contractor, the cost associated with the inspection attempt may be charged to the Contractor.

Disputed Inspection. The Contractor may request re-inspection without rework if the results are unacceptable. Re-inspection must be requested in writing within 48 hours after receiving written notice of the inspection results. Re-inspection will be accomplished within five working days after receipt of the contractor's written request.

The same sampling and inspection procedures will be used, but new samples will be taken. The inspection pattern will be shifted so that new samples will not overlap previously inspected samples. Results will be rounded to the nearest whole percent.

If re-inspection results are within five percentage points of the first inspection, the original inspection result will be used in determining acceptability and payment. If re-inspection results are greater than five percentage points above or below the first inspection, the re-inspection results will be used.

If the re-inspection results are within five percentage points of the first inspection, the Contractor shall pay the actual costs of the re-inspection.

Re-inspection after Rework. Where rework after a failed inspection may improve the inspection results, the Contractor may rework the area and request (in writing) a second inspection. The Government will charge to the Contractor the cost of this additional inspection. Re-inspection will be accomplished within five working days after the notice is received. The results of the second inspection will be final, and no further rework will be permitted. Areas not ready for re-inspection at the time specified by the Contractor will not be re-inspected, and the results of the first inspection will be final.

2. Specific Inspection Procedures

MEASURABLE PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

1. Quality Control Plan:

A Contractor Quality Control Plan shall be provided by the contractor as part of their technical proposal as set forth in FAR Clause 52.212-2 EVALUATION - COMMERCIAL ITEMS (JAN 1999) at the end of this solicitation.

2. Government Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan and Acceptance Requirements:

a. Government Quality Assurance Inspection.

The Government will make periodic inspections during the task order period of performance of the work to assure itself of contract compliance and to perform Quality Assurance Inspections to confirm that the Contractor is performing quality control in accordance with its QCP.

b. Acceptance.

Acceptance of the work under the contract will be made after steps noted in the Government Quality Assurance Inspection have been taken and the Contracting Officer has made the determination of satisfactory compliance with the specifications. Acceptance will not be made for segments broken by unacceptable portions of work.

3. Inspection, Re-inspection and Acceptance:

a. Compliance Inspection. The Contracting Officer may, by formal inspection, determine if the specified methods of work have been used. Failure to use specified methods shall require prompt corrective action. Failure to take prompt and satisfactory corrective action may be cause for termination of Contractor’s right to proceed and the contract considered in default.

i. Work shall be inspected as Treatment Unit or groups of Treatment Units. Quality and pay rate shall use the same groups.

4. Inspection Procedures:

a. Inspection of the FIA/CSE plots will be done in accordance with the requirements found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/nrm/fsveg/index.shtml within their respective User Guides.

4.1 Inspection Procedures for Unit Layout:

All unit boundaries will be reviewed in the office and at least 10% of the boundaries will be checked in the field.

Criteria:

a. Layout maps and data shall be provided to the COR before the Forest Service begins inspections.

b. All units are subject to inspection for determining satisfactory performance.

c. Contractor’s layout map of unit boundaries will be compared to the planning map provided by the Forest Service. Any layout unit that deviates more than 10% in area from the planning unit must have a valid reason for any differences documented (i.e., logging system incompatibility, resource protection, significant vegetation type changes, previously unknown mortality, etc.).

d. At least two boundary flags must be reasonably visible in either direction from any point on the line.

Evaluation:

a. Contractor must have correct layout and associated designation (if applicable) on each unit.

b. Variations of greater than 10% of the planned unit acreage must have a valid reason with documentation and be approved by the COR. If rationale is not acceptable unit must be re-worked.

c. Unit boundaries outside of NEPA coverage will need to be re-worked unless location was pre-approved by COR.

d. Unit layout out must be compatible with the logging system chosen. If units cannot be harvested with the designated system, the unit must be modified to meet the requirements for the system with approval by the COR.

e. Flagging must be visible from one flag to the next, if flags are not visible from one to the other for more than 10% of the unit boundary the unit must be reflagged.

f. Proper unit and corner identification must be on flagging or signs.

4.2. Inspection Procedures for Boundary Designation:

At least 20% of the total linear boundary distance per contract item will be inspected. Inspector will document the sections and distances reviewed on the ground along with the applicable possible number of correct answers for each of the criteria below and the number of acceptable designations to determine acceptability. Any element that does not meet the evaluation measures below must be re-worked.

Criteria:

a. All unit boundaries will be clearly located on the ground with tracer paint.

b. Boundary trees will be marked at inter-visible distances, will not be designated for harvest, and be of a size that will remain standing after logging.

c. Painted trees will have two stump marks applied as specified in Section I.2.

d. Painted trees will have the proper attention marks as specified in Section I.2.

e. Painted trees will be of sufficient size or soundness to provide a reliable boundary that can’t easily be disturbed.

f. Painted boundary trees cannot also be marked or otherwise designated for cutting.

g. Corner posting shall meet direction specified in Section I.2.

h. Unit numbers shall be painted at unit corners along roads.

Evaluation:

a. All tracer paint tests must show a positive reaction for tracer element.

b. All boundaries must be clearly located on the ground with at least 2 painted trees visible along the boundary line from either direction at 90% of the locations checked. This will be checked in 100’ intervals along inspected route and exceptions will be made for portions of line containing vegetation so dense that makes this measure unreasonable.

c. At least 90% of the painted boundary trees must have properly applied stump marks.

d. At least 90% of the painted boundary trees must have proper attention marks.

e. 90% of the marked trees shall be of sufficient size or soundness to provide a reliable boundary.

f. No painted boundary trees shall be otherwise designated as cut trees.

g. At least 90% of the corners checked must be appropriately identified.

h. Unit numbers shall be painted along boundary roads at intervals of (fill in) feet or less 80% of the time.

4.3. Inspection Procedures for Area Determination

The Government shall inspect traversed units to ensure accuracy and acceptability of all standards set forth in FSH 2409.12 Ch. 50.

Criteria:

a. Contractor shall provide the COR or inspector the following documentation: survey method and equipment used to traverse units, canopy coverage by unit, accuracy used from the MTDC matrix projection, coordinate system, and datum. Include the names of who collected the data, list the programs used to process the data and note any changes or corrections. If a verification traverse was done include both original and verification traverses.

b. Acreage estimated using GPS shall have an area error of less than less than 10%.

c. For traditional traverses, the error of closure ratio may not exceed a minimum of 1:50 for areas of 20 acres or less, or 1:100 for areas of 20 acres or more.

d. The unit polygons produced through traversing must represent the unit boundaries on the ground. There should be no obvious or significant differences in unit shape.

Evaluation:

a. All unit traverses shall be office reviewed for:

1. Proper documentation.

2. Projection, coordinate system and datum appropriate for the area.

3. Proper use of verification traverses

4. GPS polygons must match the layout map.

b. A minimum of 10% of the unit perimeters shall be field reviewed by Forest Service personnel for the following:

1. Each traverse shall match the corresponding painted unit boundary. Mapped boundaries must match painted boundary.

2. All boundaries checked/remapped in the field by the FS must match the Contractor’s traverse or polygon.

4.4 Inspection Procedures for Cruise Design and Plan:

Cruise Design and Plan must be reviewed and approved by a certified FS check cruiser, with final approval given by the Contracting Officer or designated representative prior to implementation.

To meet final approval the Cruise Design and Plan must contain but not be limited to the following elements:

5. Inspection Procedures of Timber Cruising

The final cruise inspection must be completed by a certified Forest Service check cruiser. The check cruiser shall follow all guidelines and standards set forth in FSH 2409.12, Chapter 60. Both field measurements and data files will be evaluated during the final inspection.

The Contractor may request that the Government perform an initial field check or inspection of one or more units to ensure that cruise specifications and procedures are being followed.

Depending on the duration of the cruise, the Government will perform periodic field checks or partial inspections when the cruise is near 25% and 50% complete. Such checks will be done as a courtesy to the contractor to identify potential issues and are not necessarily an indication of overall quality. Partial payment cannot be based on these inspections because cruise results are based on the final product as-a-whole. To complete these reviews, the Contractor must supply the inspector with crew field notes and maps with cruise tree locations.

Unless otherwise agreed, Contractor must provide electronic cruise files (cruise and output) on a weekly basis for the duration of the cruise. The final cruise inspection will be made within 10 working days after the Contractor has stated in writing that all cruising is complete. Acceptance of the final timber cruise shall be based on all the following criteria.

Criteria:

a. Cruise measurements must be within a specified tolerance (see Evaluation Measures below).

b. All measurements and defect determinations will be done in accordance with FSH 2409.12, chapters 10 and 20.

c. Cruise must be carried out as stated in cruise plan and associated approved cruiser instructions.

d. Changes to cruise frequencies and/or other set-up parameters must be approved and documented.

e. Unless otherwise agreed, Contractor will provide and process cruise data using the most current version of the Forest Service cruising software.

f. If electronic files are created post-cruise and/or portions updated later, they must be free of transfer/recording errors.

g. Measure trees and plots must be properly numbered, identified on the ground, and mapped so they can be relocated in a timely manner. If check cruiser finds this deficient more than 15% of the time, based on trees and plots selected for checking, contractor must relocate all sample points and measure trees and correct the deficiencies.

h. Documentation must be provided including cruise tree notes, defect deduction rationale, cruisers responsible for measurements, limiting distance calculations for borderline trees, GPS coordinates and/or hardcopy plot or measure tree location maps.

i. If Contractor is responsible for cruise design and plan, the cruise strata and combined sampling errors (E %) by product must be equal to or lower than specified in the cruise plan and the cruise must meet the standards in FSH 2409.12, chapter 40.

Evaluation:

a. (Criteria a. and b.) Measurements will be checked in the field. The total number of plot and tree measurements compared depends on the cruise method.

The number of samples checked during a field review depends on the cruise method.

1. Sample tree. Check the lesser of 15 trees or 50% of measured trees for each major species.

2. 3P. Check the larger of ten percent of the measured trees or 25 trees for 3P sampling strata.

3. For all other cruise methods, Check at least 35 trees on a sale check cruise. These trees should represent all major species and should be selected thorough out the sale.

If check cruise does not meet minimum standards, check ten additional trees for each major species.

The quality of the field measurements is determined by comparing the Contractor’s data with the Government’s data. The compared values must be within the specified tolerances to be correct. The following elements, tolerances and error weights are used to determine the percent correct for sawtimber products:

1. In/Out trees correctly identified in each plot checked - Zero tolerance and a five-point error weight per incorrect answer.

2. Species identification - Zero tolerance and a five-point error weight per incorrect answer.

3. Measurement of tree diameter at breast height (DBH) – Tolerance = +/- 3% with a one-point error if outside of the tolerance limit.

4. Measurement of total tree height - Tolerance = +/- 7.0% with a one-point error weight it outside the limit.

5. Estimation of Defect. Tolerance = +/- 10.0% of the total tree defect with a one-point error weight if outside the limit.

To determine the percentage correct per element, the total error (error weight multiplied by the number of incorrect answers) is divided by the number of trees checked for that element. Each inspection element must be at least 80.0% correct with an overall average of 85.0% or greater. Elements not obtaining 80% accuracy must be re-cruised. Cruises not meeting the 85% overall accuracy limit must be brought up to that level to be acceptable. Unless otherwise agreed, re-cruising of deficient portions must be done within 10 calendar days following a notification of unacceptable work.

b. Measure tree and/or plot locations must be installed at the frequency or locations specified in the cruise plan. Products must be recorded with the specifications listed in the cruiser directions. Unique instructions such as how to record boundary plot measurements must be consistently applied.

c. Changes to cruise frequencies and/or other set-up parameters must be approved by Contracting Officer and documented by Contractor with updated instructions distributed to field crew before implementation.

d. Unless otherwise agreed, Contractor will provide, and process cruise data using the most current version of the Forest Service cruising software and supply functional draft files on a weekly or otherwise agreed to basis.

e. At least 10% of the data on electronic files will be compared to hand notes. If there are recording errors found, Contractor must audit entire file and provide updates.

f. Measure trees and plots must be properly numbered, identified on the ground, and mapped so they can be relocated in a timely manner. If check cruiser finds this deficient more than 15% of the time, based on trees and plots selected for checking, contractor must relocate all sample points and correct.

g. Documentation must be provided including cruise tree notes, defect deduction rationale, cruisers responsible for measurements, limiting distance calculations for borderline trees, GPS coordinates and/or hardcopy plot or measure tree location maps. If notes and/or tree locations are not provided to check cruiser, any differences found will be penalized.

h. If Contractor is responsible for cruise design and plan, the Cruise strata and combined sampling errors by product (E %) must be equal to or lower than specified in the cruise plan and meet the standards in FSH 2409.12, chapter 40. If the cruise does not meet the stated statistical standards, a re-cruise of the deficient portions, at no expense to the government, must occur to bring the cruise up to standards.

6. Inspection Procedures for Designation (Marking) of Cut or Leave Trees:

The Forest Service shall inspect timber marking/designation in units the Contractor is actively working in or has just completed for compliance with contract specifications. At a minimum 10% of all marking will be checked for compliance of the following elements.

Criteria:

a. Trees shall be checked for adherence to silvicultural prescription specifications.

b. Trees shall be checked for adherence of designation above and below stump level specifications.

c. Cruise and insurance trees marked, flagged, GPS’d and labeled correctly.

d. Tracer paint checks will be done on random trees throughout the project area and must have a positive test result for the tracer element.

Evaluation:

Two methods may be used to evaluate marking.

A. Walk-through method: Shall be done throughout the performance of the contract. Inspector will note where the inspection took place unit number, location within unit, Initials of inspector and date of inspection. At a minimum 10% of each unit will be walked through and evaluated.

1. Trees looked at will be tallied.

2. Number of trees marked meeting silvicultural prescription must be 90% or greater.

3. Number of trees missed that should have been marked with the prescription must be 10% or less.

4. Adherence to the designation; correct paint color, attention band visible on all sides, two personalized stump marks.

5. Cruise and insurance trees numbered correctly, flagged for visibility, GPS location taken accurately and labeled with correct information, tree and unit number, and cruiser’s initials.

B. Plot method: Inspection plots will be located throughout the units to obtain at least 1 inspection plot per 10 acres of marking (i.e., 1000 acres of marking = 100 inspection plots; with a minimum of 2 plots per unit. Government inspection will follow the plot procedures as described below. (Select a plot size that will yield an average of 4-8 cut trees per plot. Use the same plot size for all plots in each payment unit).

1. Plots will be placed systematically or randomly within a unit. Inspection plot center will be marked with a flag and labeled with a consecutive number starting with number 1, unit number and inspectors’ initials. All IN trees that are marked will either be dotted with paint or flagged.

2. The following factors will be considered in determining whether or not a stand has been marked to specifications. Calculation to ascertain a percentage of compliance follows:

A = Total number of trees counted within the plot (if a total tree count is desired but not necessary to ensure compliance).

B = Total number of trees designated as cut trees within the plot.

C = Trees designated for cutting that should have been left based on the marking guidelines.

D = Trees designated as leave that should be cut based on the marking guidelines.

E = Cut trees not meeting marking specifications i.e., attention and stump paint application or minimum product merchantability specifications.

Calculation of Compliance Formula:

((B-C+D) – (C+D+E)) / (B-C+D) = % COMPLIANCE

Example:

Inspected By: BAF: Date:

Total 58 18 1 0 1

Calculation of Compliance Formula: ((18-1+0)-(1+0+1)) / (18-1+0) = 88% Compliance

3. For all units, determination of acceptability of work performed will be based on the Government inspections and shall be considered conclusive except as otherwise provided in the Contract. The inspection results of each unit will not be averaged with the results of any other units. The Contractor or a designated representative is encouraged to observe inspections while they are underway.

Unacceptable Marking

a. For all units, the Government will inform the contractor or his/her designated representative of marking inspection results within 5 working days of completion. Unacceptable work will not be accepted and shall be corrected by the Contractor at no additional cost to the Government. The Contractor shall complete all corrections for unacceptable work within 5 working days following notification of unacceptable work. Each unit shall be at a satisfactory level of acceptance before the contractor can start marking another unit.

b. Marking quality below 80% on any unit is unacceptable and shall be re-worked prior to starting a new unit.

DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

1. Work Timing The performance period will be determined by each task order.

Failure to begin work on schedule will make the contract subject to immediate termination for default.

Delays due to normal adverse weather, weekends, and holidays have been included in the calculation of contract time. The Government reserves the right to set the priority of items or sub-items.

If this solicitation has more than one numbered item, award of more than one item to one contractor will not change the start work dates or the amount of contract time; times will run concurrently.

2. Winter Shutdown When winter weather sets in and the continuation of work is impractical, the Contracting Officer may authorize a total suspension until such time as work can proceed. During the period of total suspension, the calendar days elapsed will not be charged against the contract time.

CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

1. Pre-work Pre-work conference. Before work begins on service contracts, a pre-work conference is normally held to discuss the contract – especially the specifications, labor provisions, plan of work, and selected standard clauses. The pre-work meeting should be attended by an officer of the firm, or someone designated in writing to act on behalf of the firm. The pre-work meeting may be waived at the discretion of the Contracting Officer.

2. Measurement Method of Measurement will be determined by Task Order.

Re-measurement. Unless otherwise indicated by this contract, the contractor may request re-measurement of any quantities in Part B, when the units are acres or any linear measurement. The request must be made in writing and must be made within 10 calendar days of completing work on the unit in question. If re-measurement indicates a variance of five percent or less from the stated quantity, the Contractor shall pay for the actual cost of re-measurement and no adjustment will be made in the quantity as stated in Part B. If re-measurement indicates a variance more than five percent from the stated quantity, payment will be based on the re-measured quantity, and the Contractor will not be liable for the costs of re-measurement. All re-measurements will be done by the Government. Re-measurement of acreage will be done with two people using a hand compass and ground measurement or by means of a Global Positioning System. This clause is not applicable to quantities listed as estimated quantities.

3. Payment Payments and Deductions. Payment will be made for fully acceptable work at the prices bid in the schedule of items. In the event of extended non-work periods because of adverse weather, the Contracting Officer may authorize progress payments for partially completed sub-items on a case-by- case basis. In accordance with the inspection clause, payment may be made for less than fully acceptable work at a reduced price. Other exceptions are noted below:

Contract Release. Before final payment will be made the Contractor shall sign a release of all claims against the Government arising by virtue of this contract, other than claims, in stated amounts, that the Contractor has specifically accepted from the operation of the release.

A Contract Release FS-6300-0016 must be uploaded with request/invoice for final payment in IPP before final payment will be approved/completed.

A release may also be required of the assignee if the Contractor's claim to amounts payable under this contract has been assigned under the Assignment of Claims Act of 1940 (31 U.S.C. 3727 and 41 U.S.C. 15).

3.1 Internet Payment Platform (IPP)

All payment requests must be submitted electronically through the US Department of the Treasury’s Internet Payment Platform System (IPP).