W912DR21Q0027 Tioga-Hammond and Cowanesque Lakes Bat Survey Solicitation Amendment 0001.pdf

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect.

15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

30-105-04EXCEPTION TO SF 30

APPROVED BY OIRM 11-84

STANDARD FORM 30 (Rev. 10-83) Prescribed by GSA

FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

The purpose of this amendment is to extend the due date for quotes from 1-Mar-2021 to 2-Mar-2021 at 2:00PM Local Eastern Time, provide a revised PWS (changes in red text), and provide responses to vendors' request for information. All other terms and conditions remain unchanged.

1. CONTRACT ID CODE PAGE OF PAGES

1 18

16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

16C. DATE SIGNED

BY 26-Feb-2021

16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA15C. DATE SIGNED15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

(Signature of Contracting Officer)(Signature of person authorized to sign)

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (No., Street , County, State and Zip Code) X W912DR21Q0027

X 9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

16-Feb-2021

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO.

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

X The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offer X is extended, is not extended.

Offer must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended by one of the following methods:

(a) By completing Items 8 and 15, and returning 1 copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted;

or (c) By separate letter or telegram which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO BE RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY RESULT IN

REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted, such change may be made by telegram or letter, provided each telegram or letter makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA (If required)

13. THIS ITEM APPLIES ONLY TO MODIFICATIONS OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS.

IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE

CONTRACT ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES (such as changes in paying office, appropriation date, etc.) SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(B).

C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER (Specify type of modification and authority)

E. IMPORTANT: Contractor is not, is required to sign this document and return copies to the issuing office.

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION (Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.)

10A. MOD. OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NO. 5. PROJECT NO.(If applicable)

6. ISSUED BY

3. EFFECTIVE DATE

26-Feb-2021

CODE

USACE, BALTIMORE

2 HOPKINS PLAZA

BALTIMORE MD 21201

W912DR 7. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than item 6)

4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NO.

CODE

See Item 6

FACILITY CODECODE

EMAIL:TEL:

W912DR21Q0027

SECTION SF 30 BLOCK 14 CONTINUATION PAGE

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

SECTION SF 30 - BLOCK 14 CONTINUATION PAGE

The following have been added by full text:

REV PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

Performance Work Statement For USACE Baltimore District

Tioga-Hammond Lakes Project Bat Surveys

1. Introduction: The Tioga-Hammond & Cowanesque Lakes Project is located in Tioga County in North Central Pennsylvania, South of Corning, NY and North of Williamsport, PA. This is a non-personal services contract to provide for a Firm-Fixed Price order for Bat Survey services at the Project. Contract bids will be evaluated by past performance history.

2. Background: The contractor shall be responsible for and provide management, planning, supervision, labor, equipment and maintenance thereof, materials and supplies necessary to provide Bat Surveys at the Tioga-Hammond & Cowanesque Lakes Project for the period specified in this contract. Locations of facilities under this order are located throughout the project. Areas are designated in Attachment/Technical Exhibit 1. (Tioga-Hammond & Cowanesque) as a separate cover.

3. General Requirements: The Baltimore District, Tioga-Hammond & Cowanesque Lakes Project is home to numerous wildlife species and has a requirement to be aware of present species. All work will take place within the Tioga-Hammond & Cowanesque Lakes Project boundaries.

Non-personal Services. The government shall neither supervise contractor employees nor control the method by which the contractor performs the required tasks. Under no circumstances shall the Government assign tasks to or prepare work schedules for individual contractor employees. It shall be the responsibility of the contractor to manage its employees and to guard against any actions that are of the nature of personal services. If the contractor believes that any actions constitute, or are perceived to constitute personal services, it shall be the contractor’s responsibility to notify the Contracting Officer (KO) immediately.

3.1 Period of Performance: The contract will begin 10 March 2021 or upon award and end December 31, 2021 in accordance with bat species standard survey seasons per the United States Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) Survey Guidelines Appendix C. The beginning and ending dates are as follows:

3.2 Site Security. All personnel working on this project will be required to follow all security and access rules and regulations (i.e. physical access and/or network access requirements) as set forth by the US Government in order to gain access to the USACE offices and/or systems to perform work assignments and/or for the delivery of equipment.

The Government shall provide a form that the Contractor must complete in order for employees to receive keys to access Project facilities. These keys are to be used exclusively for executing necessary functions to complete the duties prescribed in this contract. Any use of these keys for other than the performance of this contract is strictly prohibited. Such improprieties shall include recommending the termination of the employee(s). Any loss of keys will be reported to the Government within 24 hours.

Failure to do so may result in the contractor accepting the burden of reestablishing the integrity of the Tioga-Hammond & Cowanesque Lakes lock and key system.

Access and General Protection/Security Policy and Procedures: All contractor and all associated sub-contractors employees shall comply with applicable installation, facility and area commander installation/facility access and local security policies and procedures (provided by government representative). The contractor shall also provide all information required for background checks or background investigation and to meet installation/facility access requirements to be accomplished by installation Provost Marshal Office, Director of Emergency Services or Security Office. Contractor workforce must comply with all personal identity verification requirements as directed by DOD, HQDA and/or local policy. In addition to the changes otherwise authorized by the changes clause of this contract, should the Force Protection Condition (FPCON) at any installation or facility change, the Government may require changes in contractor security matters or processes.

Will be escorted in areas where they may be exposed to classified and/or sensitive materials and/or sensitive or restricted areas: All contract employees, including subcontractor employees who are not in possession of the appropriate security clearance or access privileges, will be escorted in areas where they may be exposed to classified and/or sensitive materials and/or sensitive or restricted areas.

Pre-screen candidates using E-Verify Program: The Contractor must pre-screen Candidates using the E-verify Program (http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify) website to meet the established employment eligibility requirements. The Vendor must ensure that the Candidate has two valid forms of Government issued identification prior to enrollment to ensure the correct information is entered into the E-verify system. An initial list of verified/eligible Candidates must be provided to the COR no later than 10 business days after the initial contract award.

Suspicious Activity Reporting Training: The contractor and all associated sub-contractors shall receive a brief/training (provided by the RA) on the local suspicious activity reporting program. This locally developed training will be used to inform employees of the types of behavior to watch for and instruct employees to report suspicious activity to the project manager, security representative or law enforcement entity. This training shall be completed within 10 calendar days of contract award and within 30 calendar days of new employees commencing performance with the results reported to the COR NLT 5 calendar days after the completion of the training.

3.3 Location of Work Performance. Locations of facilities under this order are located in multiple areas at the Tioga-Hammond & Cowanesque Lakes Projects. Areas are designated in Attachments/Exhibits.

3.4 Government. The Government shall inspect all services performed by the Contractor under this PWS through the final reports and provide feedback and acknowledgement of acceptance by the customer of the deliverables.

Requesting Unit Technical POC:

Molly A. Wilson (570) 835-0112

Email address: Molly.A.Wilson@usace.army.mil

4. Performance Requirements:

4.1 Purpose: The contractor shall be responsible for and provide management, planning, supervision, labor, equipment and maintenance thereof, materials and supplies necessary to perform Bat Survey data collection at the Tioga-Hammond & Cowanesque Lakes Project, Baltimore District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the period specified in this contract by following the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Summer Survey Guidance. The USFWS Summery Survey Guidance can be found at the following website found below. Location of facilities are provided in the attached exhibits.

https://www.fws.gov/midwest/endangered/mammals/inba/surveys/pdf/FINAL%20Range-wide%20IBat%20Survey%20Guidelines%203.23.20.pdf

4.1.1. Scope of Work: Services include, but are not limited to, Bat Survey data collection and GIS shapefiles. The Contractor must bid all line items to be considered for award.

The Contractor will not perform Bat Surveys under any conditions where the surveys cannot be completed properly accordingly to USFWS Summer Survey Guidance. The Government, based on independent judgment, may halt work based on inappropriate weather.

The Contractor and all Contractor employees shall be subject to the rules and regulations provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 327, during the performance of this contract. Upon request, a copy of these provisions can be provided by the Government.

Any work performed outside the scope of this contract must be negotiated in advance.

Failure to acquire advance approval will result in the Contractor not being compensated for the work performed outside the scope.

4.1.2. Work Task Description: The Contractor must bid all line items to be considered for award. Maps for each line item are available upon request.

4.1.2.1. Qualifications. The Contractor shall be considered qualified by the USFWS, Pennsylvania Field Office to have the skills and experiences to conduct these types of Bat Surveys.

4.1.2.2. Survey Guidance. The Contractor shall conduct acoustic Bat Surveys, following USFWS Summer Survey Guidance, specifically at a total of 10 survey sites for areas totaling 5,396 acres at Tioga-Hammond and 6 survey sites for Cowanesque areas totaling 1,445 acres. Maps of areas to be surveyed are attached in Technical/Exhibit 1 as a separate cover. Actual survey site locations shall be selected by the Contractor and approved by the Government to optimize bat detections. Species of interest include the Indiana Bat and Northern Long-Eared, but all bat species detected shall be recorded and included in the Contractor’s report.

4.1.2.3. Survey Sites. Survey sites shall be located within the area being surveyed and located as to optimize bat detections. The Contractor shall locate survey sites in forest cover types and conditions known to be preferred by bats. The Contractor shall use a GPS system to log each survey site and its exact latitude and longitude.

4.1.2.4. GIS Coverage Files. The Contractor will provide all GIS shapefiles that were created as part of the Bat Surveys to the Government. The shapefiles must be compatible with ArcGIS 10.3.1 and be provided in the projection of UTM zone 17, NAD 1927 or Pennsylvania State Plane, NAD 83 Pennsylvania South, feet.

4.1.2.5. Report of Findings. During computer/auto classification analysis, qualitative analysis of acoustic bat calls by a qualified individual for species classifications of interest (all myotis) is required. Individuals qualified to conduct qualitative analysis of acoustic bat calls have experience gathering known calls, identifying bat calls recorded in numerous habitat types, familiarity with the species likely to be encountered within the project area, multiple years of experience and must have stayed current with qualitative ID skills. A resume (or similar documentation) must be submitted along with report of findings for anyone making final qualitative identifications.

If an Indiana Bat or Northern Long-Eared Bat call is detected and verified at a survey site the Contractor shall assume presence for that forest management area and present this information as part of their report. The Contractor shall provide the Government and USFWS Field Office (FO) a comprehensive report “Tioga-Hammond & Cowanesque Lakes Bat Surveys 2020” in hard copy and electronic form. The report, at a minimum, shall include the following:

1. Habitat assessment for each survey area.

2. Explanation of any modifications from original survey plan (e.g., altered site locations).

3. Description of acoustic monitoring sites, survey dates, duration of survey, weather conditions, and a summary of findings.

4. Map identifying acoustic monitoring locations and a corresponding table including the GPS coordinates.

5. Full names of all personnel conducting acoustic surveys, including those that selected acoustic sites and deployed detectors, and include copies of state and federal permits (if applicable).

6. Full name and resume of individual(s) conducting qualitative acoustic analyses.

7. Table with information on acoustic monitoring and resulting data, including but not limited to: detector GPS coordinates, survey dates, survey hours.

8. Description of acoustic detector brand(s) and model(s) used, microphone type, use of weatherproofing, acoustic monitoring equipment settings (e.g., sensitivity, audio and data division ratios), deployment data (i.e., deployment site, habitat, date, time started, time stopped, orientation), and call analysis methods used.

9. Acoustic analysis software program output/summary results by site by night (i.e., number of calls detected, species composition, and maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) results).

10. Detailed analysis and results of any qualitative acoustic analysis conducted on those projects where a program(s) considered Indiana bat or northern long-eared bat presence likely, including justification for rejecting any program MLE results (if applicable).

11. Photographs of each acoustic site documenting the location of the detector, the orientation of the detector, and the detection cone (i.e., what the detector sampled).

12. A description of how proper functioning of bat detectors was verified.

13. Any other information, gathered during the Contractor’s work, requested by the Government or local USFWS FO.

USFWS FO: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Pennsylvania Field Office 315 South Allen Street, Suite 322 State College, PA 16801 Phone Number: (814) 234-4090 Fax Number: (814) 234-0748

4.1.3. Pre-work Conference. The Contractor is required to attend a pre-work conference prior to beginning work. The purpose of this meeting will be to review the contract, verify insurance and review the safety plan requirements. The meeting will be held at the Tioga-Hammond Lakes Visitor Information Center at a time that is mutually agreeable to the contractor and the Government.

4.1.4 Identification of Contractor Employees. All Contract employees shall wear Government approved, recognizable uniforms and identification insignia, with the Contractor name visibly displayed. Uniforms and/or other insignia will be subject to the approval of the Government. Employees must maintain acceptable levels of cleanliness and personal hygiene. All vehicles, when in use in the performance of the services under this contract, shall be marked on two (2) sides with the Contractor name and be readily identifiable. Approved magnetic signs are acceptable.

4.1.5. Safeguarding Government Property. The contractor will exercise care and safety in the operation of equipment, taking necessary precautions to avoid injuries to the Contractor and employees, government employees, and the public.

4.1.6. Communication. The Contractor shall communicate daily with the Government during all activities to determine specifically when and where current activities are taking place.

4.1.7. Work Hours. Work shall take place during the best suitable day and hours according to the USFWS Survey Guidelines and specialized expertise.

4.1.8. Compliance: All work conducted under this contract shall be performed in compliance with all county, state, and Federal laws and regulations.

4.1.9. Pre-Bid Tour. An official pre-bid tour will not be held, but potential bidders are permitted to view all of the work areas prior to bidding.

4.2 Management:

4.2.1. Management and Supervision. The Contractor shall appoint an On-Site Contract Manager/Quality Control Representative who shall make themselves available for a weekly performance meeting with the Government. A mutually agreeable time and date for the meetings shall be determined after award of the contract. The Contractor shall ensure that the On-site Contract Manager/Quality Control Supervisor has the capability to contact all crews during work hours through the use of cellular communications or other pre-approved method of reliable communications.

4.2.2. Contractor Quality Control (CQC). The Contractor is responsible for the quality of the work performed for this contract. Within 10 days of award, the Contractor shall provide a Quality Control Plan to include, but is not limited to, the following:

(1) Schedule of activities for all areas.

(2) Method the Contractor will employ to complete and document successful completion of employee training in regards to operation of all equipment, knowledge of the contract specifications and safety.

(3) Method that will be utilized for contacting crews while performing work.

(4) Letter designating the Contract Manager/Quality Control Representative.

4.2.2.1. The Contractor shall name an authorized On-site Contract Manager/Quality Control Representative whose responsibilities will include:

(1) Managing the day to day activities of the contract.

(2) Ensuring contract specifications are being met.

(3) Meeting on a bi-weekly basis with the Government Representative.

(4) Being available for notification during normal business hours defined as 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Available for notification for the purposes of this contract means that a responsible person within the Contractor’s organization shall be able to receive verbal/telephonic communications during that time frame and act upon that communication in a timely fashion.

(5) Serving as the point of contact between the On-Site Representative and the

Contractor for day-to-day activities. The On-site Contract Manager /Quality Control Representative MAY serve in a dual role as both quality assurance representative and equipment operator/laborer.

4.2.2.2. All work shall be subject to inspection and approval by the Government. All work shall be performed in an orderly fashion consistent with the specifications as outlined in this PWS. During the execution of the contract the Government’s representative will conduct inspections of all Bat Survey work to determine applicable performance requirements, as outlined in Section 4, are being met. The Contractor will provide a letter stating that all acoustic Bat Surveys have been completed in accordance with the contract requirements. Once the Government receives this letter a final inspection of will be documented and an evaluation of timeliness and efficiency will be performed at this time. Any deficiency in work shall be corrected at the Contractor’s expense. The Contractor will not be paid for any work not accepted by the On-Site Representative. The government will utilize a

Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) to ensure the Contractor’s quality control procedures are in place and working. The government is responsible for Quality Assurance to ensure the Contractor’s Quality Control procedures are working.

4.2.3 Removal of Contractor’s Employees. The Contractor and employees must hold themselves to the standard of acceptable behavior expected of the public and to all rules and regulations governing Corps property and facilities. The Contractor and employees shall not use or be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at any time while performing the obligations under this contract or give the public the appearance of same. The Contractor or employees shall not carry or possess firearms or weapons or maintain them in their vehicles or work areas while in a duty status.

4.2.3.1. The Government reserves the right to have Contractor employees removed from the job site for repetitive occurrences of inappropriate behavior to include, but not limited to:

(1) Failure to wear the proper uniform or maintain personal hygiene.

(2) Use of vulgar language.

(3) Engaging in inappropriate actions towards other employees, Federal employees or members of the public.

4.2.4 Invoices. Contractor shall submit itemized invoices after each Bat Survey task is completed. Invoice shall accurately reflect work completed within the time frame as recorded on the invoice. They shall include the contract number, starting date, completion date, and description of Bat Surveys completed. Each invoice shall contain the following information:

• Contractor name and address (exactly as it appears on the contract)

• Contract number and call number

• Date of invoice submission

• Invoice number

• Line item billed

• Bat survey description completed

• Invoice totals by line item

4.2.4.1. Corrections. Incorrect invoices will be returned to the Contractor for correction before processing. Corrected invoice shall be re-dated to reflect the new submission date. Invoices will be processed electronically for payment.

4.2.4.2. Remittance. Invoices shall be submitted via post-mail and/or electronic mail to the following addresses for payment. Should changes occur to the mailing addresses the Contractor shall be notified.

VIA Post Mail: ATTN: Molly Wilson Email: Molly.A.Wilson@usace.army.mil

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 710 Ives Run Lane Tioga PA 16946

VIA Post Mail: ATTN: Stephen Sporer Email: Stephen.P.Sporer@usace.army.mil

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 710 Ives Run Lane Tioga, PA 16946

Contractual payment will be made within the timeframe allowed by federal law (currently 30 days after receipt of a properly completed invoice). Postage, envelope and reproduction costs are to be borne by the Contractor. NOTE: Contractors may perform approximately 60 days before receiving first contractual payment.

4.2.5. Accident Prevention. The contractor shall provide the Government with a written accident prevention plan, which includes a comprehensive Activity Hazard Analysis, at least one week (seven days) prior to commencement of work. The accident prevention plan will provide all the necessary information required by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Safety and Health Requirements Manual, EM 385-1-1. This manual is available from the project office or on line at http://www.usace.army.mil/SafetyandOccupationalHealth/SafetyandHealthRequirement sManual.aspx. All plans must be approved by the government before work commences.

4.2.5.1. The Contractor shall, during the normal course of duties, exercise extreme care so as to protect all visitors and their property from injury, harm, and/or damage. The Contractor shall be liable for any and all such claims arising from negligence resulting from performance under this contract.

4.2.5.2. The contractor will comply with all applicable sections of the U.S. Corps of Engineers Safety and Health Requirements Manual, EM 385-1-1. The contractor will provide all required safety and protective equipment as recommended and required by EM 385-1-1. Adherence to EM-385-1-1 does not preclude in any way the need to adhere to all applicable regulations as Occupational Safety and Health Administration, (OSHA). Contractor will be responsible for protecting the public from any hazards associated with implementation of contract. Requirements shall include but not be limited to wearing of personal protective equipment and good housekeeping.

4.2.5.3. The contractor will observe all speed limits and other posted traffic signs in the operation of vehicles and equipment. Vehicles will not be driven or parked in unsafe positions, or off designated service roadways or outside of designated parking areas, unless approved by the On-Site Representative. Operators of contractor vehicles or vehicles providing services under this contract will comply with all applicable local, State, and Federal Laws and Regulations including the utilization of seat belts. All vehicles shall be properly licensed, insured, and inspected in accordance with the state of registration and remain in a safe and proper running condition. In addition, vehicles utilized but not owned by the Contractor, shall be properly insured either by the Contractor or the vehicle owner to meet the requirements of the state of registration.

The Contractor shall ultimately be responsible for claims arising out of careless, negligent, or unsafe operation of vehicles and any resulting damage to personal or Government property.

4.2.5.4. The Contractor shall submit to the Government an accident exposure and experience report incident to this work, in accordance with EM 385-1-1. An exposure report shall include all Contractor employee work hours performed during the period.

The work hours shall include lost time accidents and equipment accidents, including motor vehicle accidents, over $2,000.00. The report shall be submitted NLT then the 5th of each month for the preceding month.

4.2.6. In accordance with the clause 52.228-5 Insurance – Work on a Government Installation, the Contractor shall procure and maintain during the entire period of his performance under this contract the following minimum insurance:

Coverage complying with state laws governing insurance requirements pertaining to Workmen’s Compensation and Employers” Liability Insurance.

Bodily injury liability insurance with minimum limits of $500,000 per occurrence shall be required on the comprehensive form of policy.

Automobile bodily injury and property damage liability with minimum limits of $200,000 per person and $500,000 per occurrence for bodily injury liability; and $20,000 per occurrence for property damage liability shall be required.

The coverage required under Longshoremen and Harbor workers Compensation Act.

4.2.7. Submittals. The Contractor shall submit the following within 10 days of award:

Certificates of Insurance Employee/Job Title Listing and Training Record Proposed Identification of Contractor Vehicles Contractor Quality Control Plan List of Emergency Phone Numbers Accident Prevention Plan to Include Activity Hazard Analysis Survey Certifications

4.2.8. Deficiencies. Work which cannot be corrected in a timely fashion according to the specifications will be deducted from the appropriate contract line item. Deductions for partial work will be made on the basis of work accomplished and the estimated cost to complete the remaining work by hired contractor or government staff to include labor costs, supplies & materials, vehicle costs, and other associated costs.

4.2.9. Default. Default of the contract shall be considered for various reasons relating to nonperformance or adherence to contract specifications. Following is a partial listing of reasons for which default may be considered:

Repetitive pay deductions for non-performance.

Repetitive safety violations.

Abnormally high amounts of damage to Government facilities or private property.

Non-compliance with contract specifications.

5. Government Provided Materials

5.1. Upon request by the Contractor, the Government shall provide a “Safety and Health Requirements Manual”. The updated manual can be found at the following website:

http://www.usace.army.mil/SafetyandOccupationalHealth/SafetyandHealthRequirement sManual.aspx.

5.2 Keys will be provided to the Contractor by the Government for executing the duties of this contract per Section 3.2.

5.3 GIS/Maps Files: Upon request by the Contractor the Government will provide maps and/or GIS files to include, but not limited to aerial photography, topography, project boundary, project gates, project roads, and trail systems.

6. Attachment/Exhibit List:

6.1 Attachment/Technical Exhibit 1 – Maps of Work Locations – Under separate cover.

6.2 Attachment/Technical Exhibit 2 – Performance Requirements Summary

6.3 Attachment 3 – Deliverables

Only a warranted Contracting Officer (either a Procuring Contracting Officer (PCO), or an Administrative Contracting Officer (ACO)), acting within their delegated limits, has the authority to issue modifications or otherwise change the terms and conditions of this contract. If an individual other than the Contracting Officer attempts to make changes to the terms and conditions of this contract you shall not proceed with the change and shall immediately notify the Contracting Officer.

END OF PERFORMANCE WORK SUMMARY

6.2 Attachment/Technical Exhibit 2: Performance Requirements Summary

Required Services (Tasks)

Performance

Standards

Acceptable Quality Levels

Methods of

Surveillance

Incentive (Positive and/or Negative)

(Impact on Contractor Payments)

Report Submittals

Required reports/invoic es are submitted correctly within designated timeframe.

Required reports/ invoices are submitted correctly within designated timeframe 95% of the time.

100 % review of submittals

Full payment of invoice.

5% deduction from invoice for failure to meet the performance threshold.

Safety Maintained During Operations

No accidents or incidents due to contractor’s failure to take safety precautions.

No accidents or incidents due to contractor’s failure to take safety precautions.

Investigation of any incidents or accidents involving the contractor.

Full payment of invoice

5% deduction from invoice for safety violation.

Bat Surveys All Bat Surveys are conducted according to specifications

Perform Bat Surveys according to specifications and within established timeframes 100% of the time.

Visual inspections of surveys performed immediately after completion and again within next set of surveys.

Full payment of invoice.

Re-performance if 100% Bat Surveys are not accomplished.

GIS

Shapefiles

GIS

shapefiles are established according to specifications

Prepare GIS shapefiles according to specifications and within established timeframes 100% of the Time.

Visual inspections of shapefiles meeting specifications immediately after completion.

Full payment of invoice.

Re-performance if GIS shapefiles is not accomplished according to specifications.

6.3 Attachment 3, Deliverables

Deliverables Frequency # of Copies

Medium/Format Please submit email copy of all deliverables to the COR & KO (Microsoft Office version 2010 or newer)

Submit To

Accident Prevention Plan

Within 10 days of contract award.

1 Paper/Hard Copy and Email

ATTENTION: MOLLY WILSON

COR: (570-835-0112)

Molly.a.wilson@usace.army.mil

Quality Control Plan

Within 10 days of contract award.

1 Paper/Hard Copy and Email

ATTENTION: MOLLY WILSON

COR: (570-835-0112)

Molly.a.wilson@usace.army.mil

Inspection Report Within 10 days of contract award.

1 Paper/Hard Copy and Email

ATTENTION: MOLLY WILSON

COR: (570-835-0112)

Molly.a.wilson@usace.army.mil

Employee Training Record

Within 10 days of contract award.

1 Paper/Hard Copy and Email

ATTENTION: MOLLY WILSON

COR: (570-835-0112)

Molly.a.wilson@usace.army.mil

E-Verify Screening

Within 10 days of contract award.

1 Paper/Hard Copy and Email

ATTENTION: MOLLY WILSON

COR: (570-835-0112)

Molly.a.wilson@usace.army.mil

Insurance Within 10 days of contract award.

1 Paper/Hard Copy and Email

ATTENTION: MOLLY WILSON

COR: (570-835-0112)

Molly.a.wilson@usace.army.mil

Suspicious Activity Reporting Training

Within 10 days of contract award.

1 Paper/Hard Copy and Email

ATTENTION: MOLLY WILSON

COR: (570-835-0112)

Molly.a.wilson@usace.army.mil

Proposed ID of vehicles

Within 10 days of contract award

1 Paper/Hard Copy and Email

ATTENTION: MOLLY WILSON

COR: (570-835-0112)

Molly.a.wilson@usace.army.mil

Letter of completion

Completion of work

1 Paper/Hard Copy and Email

ATTENTION: MOLLY WILSON

COR: (570-835-0112)

Molly.a.wilson@usace.army.mil

RFI RESPONSES

(RFI) Request for Information THC Bat Survey

Q1) Do you have shapefiles or kmz files of the survey sites that you could provide?

A1) No.

Q2) The Project outlines 16 sites for a total of 6,841 acres. While not all acres are forested, and therefore not subject to Summer Survey Guidelines, there could be potential for increased effort based on actual forested acres. Has USACE: (1) conducted an analysis on actual forested acreage, requiring 16 sites, as outlined in the Summer Survey Guidelines (1 site = 123 acres), (2) do the 16 sites equate to increased acoustic effort per site to satisfy the 123 acres area requirement, or (3) is there an understanding with USFWS for decreased acoustic effort per site where forested aces surpass the 123-acre threshold?

A2) See PWS sections 4.1.2.2 and 4.1.2.3. We did not perform a separate analysis of forested acres; however, we can provide a GIS map of all survey site acres that are forested and what the majority of tree species are per the survey sites. The entire Tioga-Hammond & Cowanesque Project land acres are encompassed in the contract. In the USFWS guidelines Step 5., linear and non-linear projects for quantity of detectors and nights can fluctuate according to what works best for that survey site. If a survey site is not preferable and does not have any forested acres/not ideal for bat detections, then the contractor shall note that and move onto the next preferable survey site.

See the USFWS Summer Survey Guidance with the link referenced in the revised PWS section 4.1.

Q3) Will USACE require an in-person, pre-work conference, or may the administrative duties such as insurance verification and contract review be conducted remotely with a project manager, aimed to reduce project costs?

A3) See PWS section 4.1.3.

Q4) Section 4.1.2.2 Survey Guidance states "The Contractor shall conduct acoustic Bat Surveys, following USFWS Summer Survey Guidance…” at a total of 16 survey sites across 6,841 acres. USFWS guidance specifies a minimum of 8 detector nights per 123 acres of suitable Indiana bat summer habitat. Does the Government intend the Contractor to complete one acoustic site per survey site (i.e. a total of 16 acoustic sites, with a total of 128 acoustic detector-nights) or to complete multiple acoustic sites as appropriate per 123 acres of bat habitat within each survey site?

A4) See response to #Q2.

Q5) The solicitation states that the Tioga-Hammond area will consist of 10 survey sites and 5,396 acres and the Cowanesque area will be 6 survey sites and 1,445 acres. Should I consider all of that acreage as habitat and therefore apply 8 detector nights per 123 acres (per the 2020 USFWS Indiana Bat Survey Guidelines)?

This would be a total of 352 detector nights for Tioga-Hammond and 96 detector nights for Cowanesque.

A5) See PWS sections 4.1 and 4.1.1.

Q6) Please clarify what you expect in the "Capabilities Plan" portion of the Technical Factor. Would this be different than showing past project experience and including resumes of key staff? Or by capabilities plan, are you referring to a project study design?

A6) Yes, the Capabilities Plan is different from past project experience, see description for capabilities plan in the instruction to offorer.

Q7) The Past Performance evaluation factor says "Submit at least three detailed examples of relevant projects that are currently well underway or performed within the past 10 years. Work experience shall be demonstrated for at least 5 years."

I established my consulting company last year, and specialize in acoustic monitoring and echolocation species ID of bats. This past year I completed two relevant contracts, and two contracts that are less relevant to this solicitation. But I also have 13 years' professional experience while working for another consulting firm that is directly related to this solicitation.

To demonstrate at least 5 years of relevant work experience is it okay to substitute a letter of reference from a former coworker for my third example of a relevant project? (Or would this disqualify me since that work was done for a different company?)

Or should I use one of my less-relevant contracts from this past year as my third example? (Or would this disqualify me since my firm is <5 years old?)

Or is it better to try and find a more experienced company to team with and submit as a 'joint venture, using one or more of their past contracts as examples?

A7) Any relevant experience may be submitted. If none is submitted, the rating for Past Performance will be Neutral.

Q8) The USFWS Range-wide Indiana Bat Survey Guidelines level of effort (LOE) for bat acoustic surveys requires 8 detector nights [dn]) for every 123 acres of forest. For this solicitation, should the survey LOE follow USFWS methodology (i.e., 8dn for every 123 acres of forest) for each of the 16 “Survey Sites”, or are you requesting the survey LOE be 8 dn per “Survey Site” regardless of the number of forested acres located within it? If the survey LOE requested is 8dn/123 acres of forested habitat per “Survey Site”, can the number of forested acres within each of the 16 “Survey Sites” be provided?

A8) Yes, the USFWS Summer Survey Guidance shall be followed, as maps of forested acreage can be provided but preferable bat location shall be selected by contractor based on expertise and approved by Government. See response to #Q2.

Q9) The level of effort in the solicitation for acoustic bat surveys does not appear to meet current USFWS guidelines for regulatory surveys. Because this is not a regulatory survey, are the number of surveys sites (for example task #2 – 3 survey sites) provided in the solicitation the desired number of sites for the entire project by the USACE?

A9) Yes, the desired goal is to perform acoustic bat surveys at ideal preferrable forested bat locations. As the contract encompasses the entire projects land acres.

Q10) Is there a minimum number of detectors and survey nights at each survey site location? For example, “the 3 survey sites under Task #2 should each be surveyed with XX number of detector units for XX number of nights”?

A10) The summer survey guidance shall be what is followed per acreage and quantity of detectors upon preferable forested bat locations.

Q11) Can we use references on the federal reference form we already have from past projects?

A11) See Factor II.

Q12) Are the client evaluation sections of the Past Performance Questionnaires due at the time of the offer due date (9:00 AM March 1, 2021)?

A12) Yes.

Q13) Were the sites identified in the solicitation pre-delineated based on the assumption that each contain 123 forested acres, therefore considered a single site per the bat survey guidance?

A13) Yes, the entire contract encompasses the entire Tioga-Hammond & Cowanesque Project land acres; therefore, if the survey site does not contain at least 123 acres of forested land, the contractor shall note that and move onto the next survey site for preferable forested acreage ideal of bat detections.

Q14) Has USFWS and/or state agency review / guidance been provided and is that available?

A14) No, there has not been a survey completed at the acreage survey sites for the Tioga-Hammond & Cowanesque Project.

Q15) The solicitation states to follow the Indiana Bat Summer Survey Guidelines which stipulate 8 detector nights per 123 acres of suitable habitat. To clarify, do you want the number of acoustic detectors nights to be based on the amount of suitable habitat in each Survey Site?

A15) Yes.

Q16) On the bid schedule under Line Item Number 0001, Task 1 Deliverables. Does this include only the documents in Table 6.3 Attachment 3 Deliverables or does this also include reporting and GIS shapefiles?

A16) Solely 6.3 Attachment 3, Deliverables.

Q17) On the provided Bid Schedule a “Unit Price” is requested (“Unit” being defined as “Acres” for line number 0002, 0003, and 0004). Is this “Unit Price” then the cost to survey a single acre?

A17) Yes.

Q18) Is an incumbent contractor currently performing these services, if similar services have been performed in the past, or if this is a new requirement. If this is a follow-on requirement, could you please provide the previous contract or task order number?

A18) No, this is a new requirement

Q19) Was there a previous incumbent? If there was a previous incumbent, what is the award number?

A19) See the answer to A18.

Q20) Are you seeking new bids to obtain better pricing, or are they dissatisfied with the current contractor?

If they are dissatisfied with them, could you elaborate on why so?

A20) see the answer to A18.

Q21) Is the site visit necessary for submitting a quote?

A21) No, and a site visit will not be held.

Q22) Will the Suspicious Activity Reporting Training be provided remotely or onsite?

A22) Remotely.

SECTION SF 1449 - CONTINUATION SHEET

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM

The required response date/time has changed from 01-Mar-2021 09:00 AM to 02-Mar-2021 02:00 PM.

(End of Summary of Changes)