Water Quality PWS DRAFT.pdf

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT for

LOUISVILLE DISTRICT WATER QUALITY DATA & SAMPLE COLLECTION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Contents

SECTION C-1

GENERAL

C-1.1 PROJECT INFORMATION

C-1.2 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

C-1.3 TASK ORDERS

C-1.4 NEGOTIATION

C-1.5 POINTS OF CONTACT (POC) - GOVERNMENT POC

C-1.6 RESERVOIR LOCATIONS

C-1.7 BOTTLE ORDERS AND SAMPLE SHIPMENT

C-1.8 SAMPLE BOTTLES AND LABELS

C-1.9 CHAIN OF CUSTODY SHEETS (COCs)

C-1.10 AIRBILLS

C-1.11 CONTRACTOR QUALITY CONTROL AND PROGRAM MANAGEMENT PLAN

C-1.12 SAFETY

C-1.13 SECURITY REQUIREMENTS

C-1.13.1 SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY REQUIREMENTS

C-1.13.2 FOR ALL LOUISVILLE DISTRICT CONTRACTS

C-1.13.3 FOR CONTRACTORS REQUIRING DOD COMMON ACCESS CARDS (CAC)

C-1.13.4 FOREIGN NATIONALS

C-1.14 FAR 52.222-50 COMBATTING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

C-1.15 VETERANS EMPLOYMENT EMPHASIS FOR U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS CONTRACTS

C-1.16 INVASIVE SPECIES

C-1.17 SAMPLING PLAN EXECUTION

C-1.18 CONTRACT AUTHORITY

C-1.19 PAYMENT

C-1.20 PRICE BREAKOUT SCHEDULE DEFINITIONS

SECTION C-2

COLLECTION METHODS

C-2.1 RESERVOIR SITE – REGULAR COLLECTION

C-2.1.1 FIELD DATA COLLECTION

C-2.1.2 FIELD DATA SHEETS

C-2.1.3 WATER CHEMISTRY SAMPLE COLLECTION

C-2.1.4 ALGAL SAMPLE COLLECTION

C-2.2 RESERVOIR SITE – REGULAR AND QUALITY CONTROL COLLECTION

C-2.2.1 QUALITY CONTROL FIELD DATA COLLECTION

DRAFT

C-2.2.2 QUALITY CONTROL SAMPLE COLLECTION

C-2.3 RESERVOIR SITE – SEDIMENT COLLECTION

C-2.4 STREAM SITE – REGULAR COLLECTION

C-2.4.1 FIELD DATA COLLECTION

C-2.4.2 FIELD DATA SHEETS

C-2.4.3 WATER CHEMISTRY SAMPLE COLLECTION

C-2.5 STREAM SITE – REGULAR AND QUALITY CONTROL COLLECTION

C-2.6 STREAM SITE – SEDIMENT COLLECTION

C-2.7 RESERVOIR SITE – ZOOPLANKTON COLLECTION

APPENDIX A. ACTIVITY HAZARD ASSESSMENTS

APPENDIX B. RELEASE OF CLAIMS EXAMPLE

APPENDIX C. FIELD DATA SHEETS

APPENDIX D. FIELD OBSERVATION SHEETS

SECTION C-1

GENERAL

C-1.1 PROJECT INFORMATION

Water quality data and sample collection for the Louisville District.

C-1.2 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

The Contractor shall furnish all necessary management, personnel, materials, supplies, tools, equipment, fuel, and vehicles, except as otherwise provided herein, required to perform the collection of water quality data and samples in streams and reservoirs at 17 Louisville District reservoir basins and for delivery of these samples to the Government POC or the Government’s laboratories as specified by the Government POC, as specified and in strict accordance with all Terms, Conditions, General, Specific and Technical Provisions, Attachments, etc., contained herein or incorporated by reference. The Contractor’s work and responsibility shall include all planning, programming, administration, management, supervision, communications, and inspection necessary to assure that all services are conducted in accordance with the contract requirements and all applicable Federal, State and local laws and regulations.

The Contractor will undertake a field program to accurately and effectively collect water quality data and samples as specified in this performance work statement (PWS). Water quality data and sample collection will consist of in-situ measurements and sample collection for lab analysis; lab analysis and testing will be covered by the Government and is not covered in this contract. The Contractor will need to identify and ensure proper treatment and labeling of all samples and sample containers. The Contractor will be responsible and accountable for the collection and delivery to the Government POC or laboratories (as appropriate and directed by the Government POC) of all samples and data as specified in this PWS. Advanced planning is crucial to maintain efficient use of time and resources in the field.

Within 10 calendar days of contract award and subsequent task orders, arrangements are to be made for a virtual meeting between the Contractor and Government POC to discuss specifics of work, answer questions, present written materials, etc., as are indicated in this contract. This meeting will be referred to as the ‘Initial Meeting’ in the remainder of this contract. All field crew members and the project manager will be required to attend. The project manager is required to be present during at least 50% of the sampling events in this contract.

A sampling event is defined as the collective sampling of the reservoir, inflow, and tailwater sample stations belonging to a particular reservoir. The Contractor will have no more than four consecutive days to complete a sampling event or it shall be rescheduled at no additional cost. Sampling events cannot be completed on Fridays or Saturdays due to the fact that laboratories cannot receive next-day sample shipments on Saturdays and Sundays.

The Government may conduct contract oversight of the Contractor’s activities by observing the Contractor in the field. This may include the COR, representatives of the COR, or other employees of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Government oversight trips will be coordinated one week in advance and with as little disruption to the Contractor as possible.

Exact scheduling may be subject to change due to factors such as adverse weather conditions, reservoir maintenance activities, equipment problems, etc. The Contractor will be expected to remain aware of weather and reservoir access conditions. Local reservoir POC information will be provided at the Initial Meeting. Any resources expended by the Contractor resulting from failure to inquire about reservoir access ahead of time will be the sole responsibility of the Contractor. During the course of the year, any revisions in schedule shall be submitted to the COR and laboratories by the Contractor within 24 hours.

The Government may, at its own discretion extend this contract for four additional one-year periods.

C-1.3 TASK ORDERS

All work under this contract will be ordered by issuance of individual Task Orders (SF1449). No work shall be performed under this contract before an individual Task Order has been issued by the Contracting Officer (KO). Only the KO, by issuance of a modification, may make any change to a Task Order. The Task Order will list those items from the price breakout schedule that are to be performed or used to perform the work.

C-1.4 NEGOTIATION

Task Orders that are to be performed on a unit basis (e.g., using items from the price breakout schedule) will be agreed upon by negotiation between the Contractor and the KO. This procedure can be initiated by either the Contractor or the Government through execution of Section I of a Job Request form. If the Job Request Form is initiated by the Contractor, the Government may concur with the need for the work by completing Section II of the Government's copy of the form. If the Government initiates the Job Request Form, the Contractor shall complete Section II of the Contractor's copy of the form and return the form to the KO.

Unless otherwise specified in writing by the KO, the Contractor shall return the completed form within 48 hours of receipt of the request. Task Orders will be issued upon successful negotiation of the contractor’s proposed level of effort. If negotiations are unsuccessful, the Government reserves the right to obtain the services in question by whatever means deemed to be in the best interest of the Government, including use of its own work force.

The purpose of negotiation is to establish a fair and reasonable price for the job under consideration. The Government and Contractor will negotiate toward the most efficient method of work and the number of hours required. The most efficient method is that method of work which accomplishes the job safely and at the lowest price. Once negotiated the Contractor must perform the job using the method of work and line items agreed upon during negotiations. Task Orders for work under this Section will be written as One Job for Sum under Line Items identified in the price breakout schedule. Individual contract line items shall be specified on the Job Request Form, or in a Resume of Negotiations.

C-1.5 POINTS OF CONTACT (POC) - GOVERNMENT POC

After contract award, any questions regarding any aspect of the contracted work effort and billing shall be directly addressed to the Government POC, Zachary Wolf, phone: (502) 315-6312, email address:

Zachary.L.Wolf@usace.army.mil. The Government POC is to be kept fully informed of any matter pertaining to this contract and copied on all emails regarding the work in this contract. Any communication regarding specific contract matters pertaining to this contract shall be done directly with the Government POC. In the event that the Government POC is unavailable, the Contractor shall contact the alternate Government POC, Kristin Berger, phone: (502) 315-6502, email address: Kristin.M.Berger@usace.army.mil.

C-1.6 RESERVOIR LOCATIONS

The Louisville District has 17 reservoirs within Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana. The Louisville District Reservoirs are:

Ohio Reservoirs Indiana Reservoirs Kentucky Reservoirs W.H. Harsha (EFR) Brookville (BVR) Taylorsville (TAR) C.J. Brown (CBR) Patoka (PRR) Cave Run (CRR) Caesar Creek (CCK) Cagles Mill (CMR) Carr Creek (CFK) West Fork (WFR) C.M. Harden (CHL) Buckhorn (BHR)

Monroe (MNR) Nolin (NRR) Barren River (BRR) Rough River (RRR) Green River (GRR)

A list of latitude/longitude information with sample station locations will be provided with each task order. In the field, the Contractor will locate sample stations using this information. Stations are located over the deepest point over the original channel thus requiring use of a depth sounder. GPS latitude/longitude readings determined by the Contractor for this ‘deepest point’ location shall be recorded by the Contractor on the field data sheet requiring the use of a GPS unit. Discussion will be held at the Initial Meeting as to how to address stations that may be inaccessible due to shallow conditions, etc.

Each station ID, e.g., ‘CRR20001’, consists of 3 capital letters, e.g., ‘CRR’, representing the reservoir name (see reservoir list above with abbreviations in parentheses), and the 5-digit station number at the end, e.g., ‘20001’. The tailwater station number is always ‘10000’ and the damsite station number is always ‘20001’.

Station number 20001 at each reservoir is located at the original stream channel within the reservoir near the control tower but not past any restrictive buoys. This station is considered to be the deepest point of any reservoir. Care shall be taken not to get too close to the control tower to prevent damaging equipment and collecting non-representational data due to reservoir outflow. Stay outside of indicated danger areas.

Different types of data and samples may be collected as part of this contract: field data; water chemistry samples; algal samples; zooplankton samples; and sediment samples. However, not all sample stations will have the same collections made.

For some of the stream sites, the Contractor will need to coordinate with the Government POC (or alternate POCs as specified by the Government) to access certain sites that require access via private property or state property. The Contractor shall provide ample time (i.e., 48 hours) and flexibility for this coordination.

C-1.7 BOTTLE ORDERS AND SAMPLE SHIPMENT

The laboratories will furnish all sample containers, preservatives (except for ice), tags, chain of custody forms (COCs), labels, and coolers. The Contractor will work directly with the laboratories to order bottles. The Contractor will keep the Government POC informed or copied on all communications with the laboratories. The Contractor will give the laboratories at least a seven-business day notice for bottle preparation and shipment.

Delays due to failure of the Contractor to request bottles seven business days before sampling date will be solely the fault of the Contractor.

The Contractor shall have room to store approximately 30 coolers and two pallets of sampling supplies at their facility. The Contractor is responsible for returning extra sampling supplies to the laboratories at the end of the sampling season before the final invoice will be paid.

All samples collected by the Contractor shall be shipped the same day that they are collected, with the exception of algal and zooplankton samples; algal and zooplankton samples may be shipped within two weeks of collection as long as they are properly preserved and kept refrigerated with minimal sunlight exposure.

Contact and shipment information for the laboratories will be provided by the Government POC at the Initial Meeting. The Contractor is responsible for shipping the samples to the Government POC or laboratories, as appropriate. In the event that coolers are delayed or lost, the Contractor will provide the tracking numbers to the laboratories so that accommodations can be made by the laboratories to analyze the samples as soon as possible and have the best chance of meeting holding times.

C-1.8 SAMPLE BOTTLES AND LABELS

Recording of any data, notes, comments, etc. in the field shall be done in waterproof ink and on waterproof paper. Label information shall be filled out in waterproof ink. Any markings on any sample container shall be written clearly, heavily, and in waterproof marker. Once completed, labels shall be taped over with clear, waterproof tape to prevent ruin of information by water wear. Bottles will be placed in clear, watertight plastic bags to further prevent water damage to labels. The sample tags may already include information as to Station ID, tag number, parameter(s) of interest, and preservative. The year, month, day, time, and depth in feet will be recorded in the field by the Contractor as part of sample collection process.

If necessary to the Contractor field crew in organizing and keeping track of samples, an “S” (surface), “AT” (above thermocline), “MT” (mid-thermocline), “BT” (below thermocline), and “B-5” (5 feet above bottom) can be indicated in addition to actual depth in feet on the field sheets and sample bottles. Actual depths in feet shall be recorded on sample bottles and in the depth columns on both the hardcopy field data sheets and the Excel field data files.

One tag will be used per sample, with proper adhesive labels used for each parameter group. Tag information shall match field sheets for date, time, and depths. If the sample labels are not complete and legible, the samples will not be valid. Care shall be taken to protect labels against water damage while in the cooler.

Clear, waterproof tape will be applied over the labels after they are filled out with all relevant information.

Sample containers for chlorophyll filters (i.e., aluminum foil and plastic bags) and algae shall be marked with a waterproof marker to ensure that identifying information does not smear or rub off.

Preservatives will be administered to each bottle by the laboratories as needed prior to delivery to the Contractor. It is the responsibility of the Contractor field crew to become familiar with the preservative needs of the different water quality samples so that any deficiencies can be identified and addressed. Should a particular sample require preservative material, and none is evident in the sample bottle, corrective action shall be taken to maintain sample quality. This issue can be more easily addressed if the Contractor has extra sample bottles on hand. Personnel handling preservatives or samples containing preservatives shall be properly trained and experienced in handling hazardous chemicals.

Ice is a required preservative used for most samples collected in the field. All samples (with the exclusion of algal and zooplankton samples) are to be placed on ice immediately upon collection. Any labeling to be done shall be in waterproof ink, labels taped over, and the bottles tightly sealed in plastic bags to prevent damage to label information by water and ice in coolers. Coolers shall be lined with a large plastic garbage bag to prevent ice meltwater from leaking out of the coolers. Significant leakage could result in the refusal of the shipping entity to transport samples, resulting in loss of data. The Contractor is responsible for purchasing all materials (including ice) for proper sample preservation and shipment unless otherwise specified in this PWS.

Bottle cleanliness shall be maintained at all times. Empty sample containers taken to the sampling stations shall be capped and placed in covered containers or plastic bags until immediately prior to use. At least 2 extra sets of bottles and tags will be taken into the field for availability should any bottles be damaged or lost, or if extra samples should need to be collected to address some unforeseen environmental concern.

Samples will be placed by the Contractor field crew in appropriate bottles or containers as indicated on the bottle labels. All samples will be collected and handled in accordance with standard EPA or State procedures. Sample bottle caps may become loosened in transport so care should be taken to ensure containers are properly sealed. Contractor field crew personnel shall be trained and equipped to handle cases of chemical contact.

C-1.9 CHAIN OF CUSTODY SHEETS (COCs)

Template COC forms for laboratories will be provided by the laboratories. Filling out COCs in an incorrect or careless fashion can result in substantial costs to the Government. If this occurs, the Contractor will be responsible for covering the costs incurred as a result of the Contractor’s actions. The Contractor will fill out separate COCs for each cooler of samples. The Contractor will take photographs of the COCs and email these photographs to the Government POC and the laboratories by the end of each sampling day. These photographs of the COCs shall be legible and of good quality, the contractor shall check the photograph before sending to ensure this requirement is met. The Contractor will place the hardcopy COCs in clear, watertight plastic bags (as to prevent water damage to COCs) to be taped to the underside of the cooler lid containing the samples before taping the cooler shut and shipping at the end of the day.

C-1.10 AIRBILLS

The Government POC will provide to the Contractor airbills for shipping samples to the laboratories (UPS will be used for shipping unless otherwise specified by the Government POC). The Government’s shipping account will be utilized for shipping samples only. The account is not to be used for supplies, etc. The Contractor is responsible for purchasing shipping supplies, if needed. For maximum efficiency, used airbills shall be scanned and emailed to the Government POC by the end of each sampling day. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to make sure they have possession of a sufficient number of airbills. If more airbills are needed, the Contractor will give the Government POC no less than 10 calendar days notice of this need. Any unused airbills shall be returned to the Government POC before the final invoice will be paid.

For UPS airbills, the Contractor must check the box for “LARGE PACKAGE” in box #3 and provide the actual weight and dimensions of the cooler during each shipment, unless otherwise advised by the Government POC. This is to prevent UPS staff from erroneously checking “LTR” during package drop-off, which results in additional fines to the Government.

C-1.11 CONTRACTOR QUALITY CONTROL AND PROGRAM MANAGEMENT PLAN

For bid estimates, the “Quality Control and Program Management Plan” line item in the price breakout schedule is defined as the development of a complete quality control and project management plan (QCPMP) that is accepted by the Government POC.

The Contractor shall establish a complete QCPMP to assure the requirements of the contract are provided as specified. The Contractor will submit the QCPMP within 14 calendar days of contract award. As needed, the Contractor will address comments of the QCPMP by the Government POC and resubmit a revised QCPMP. This plan will include, but not be limited to, the following:

An inspection system covering the services stated in the contract specifications. It shall specify inspection to be performed, either on a scheduled or unscheduled basis, and the individual who shall do the inspection. It shall state the method of checking electronic instruments for calibration and for insuring proper collection of samples and avoidance of sample contamination. The QCPMP shall require a file or logbook on instrument calibration. A copy of these records may be examined by the Government POC on request. The QCPMP shall provide a method of identifying deficiencies in the quality of services performed before the level of performance becomes unacceptable.

Periodic unannounced inspections may be performed by the Government POC or authorized representative. The Contractor will be notified of deficiencies existing in the services being performed and correct these deficiencies immediately. The Contractor shall maintain a file containing all inspections conducted r and the corrective actions taken shall be maintained.

Field notes shall contain instrument calibration adjustments before and after sample trips. Notes will contain same information pertaining to environmental conditions/mechanical difficulties, etc., as recorded on field sheets. Any unusual phenomena concerning water quality at any station shall be recorded and the Government POC immediately notified.

C-1.12 SAFETY

For bid estimates, the “Health and Safety Plan” line item in the price breakout schedule is defined as the development of a complete Health and Safety Plan that is accepted by the Government POC.

Within 14 calendar days of contract award, the Contractor will submit a Health and Safety Plan that complies with the Corps Safety Manual EM 385-1-1. As part of the Health and Safety Plan, special attention shall be given to driver safety, trailering, water safety, boat safety, and handling of chemicals and equipment.

The Contractor will be expected to verify in the Health and Safety Plan that personnel are experienced and competent in operation of vehicles with trailers both on ramps and on the road. The Contractor will comply with all applicable OSHA standards as they apply to the performance of the work. The Contractor shall observe all requirements stated in the Corps Safety Manual EM 385-1-1, and any other Army and civil regulations concerning safety, including proper use of life jackets and flotation devices. The Contractor shall confirm in the Health and Safety Plan that boat operators have the proper licenses. Boat operators will conform to “No-Wake” zones and other printed and posted restrictions at each reservoir. The Contractor shall address the following requirements in the Health and Safety Plan:

Minimum Boat Safety Requirements

Cleanliness Organization Fire extinguisher Life jackets First aid kit Anchor Oars Cell phone Schedule provided to Government POC Eyewash Sunscreen

Kill Switch Life ring or throw Boat Operation Observation of no wake zones, right of ways, etc.

Minimum Sample Handling/Storage Requirements

Adequate Cooler Space Adequate Ice Sample Security in Transport

The Government POC has prepared Activity Hazard Assessments (AHAs; APPENDIX A. ACTIVITY

HAZARD ASSESSMENTS) which shall be added to the Health and Safety Plan and the Contractor shall ensure that the field crew members are fully briefed on the Health and Safety Plan and associated AHAs before the crew begins any sampling.

The Contractor field crew shall be equipped with boat, vehicle, depth sounder, and all other equipment necessary to complete the work specified in this contract in accordance with all safety requirements described in this section. The boat shall allow for freedom of movement necessary for sample collection without risk of tipping; shall allow for storage of sample containers, equipment, and samples without overloading; shall be equipped such that the crew can readily access information regarding depth from a safe position in the boat;

shall allow for safety in equipment use for sample collection, filtering, etc. The boat shall be equipped with proper running lights, anchor, oar, and life jackets. The crew shall have available to it a means of contacting the Contractor’s office or other emergency point of contact, e.g., cell phone, radio, etc., in case of emergency. Crew members shall be trained in CPR and first aid procedures. Any trailering equipment is to be inspected for proper and safe operation. The vehicle shall be able to maneuver rough terrain with adequate power to transport the Contractor boat without difficulty. Information related to crew safety, equipment, boat, etc. is to be presented to the Government POC as part of the bid package.

C-1.13 SECURITY REQUIREMENTS

The security requirements described below apply to all contract personnel (including employees of the prime Contractor (“Contractor”) and all subcontractor employees) supporting the performance requirements of this contract. The Contractor is responsible for compliance with these security requirements. Questions regarding security matters shall be addressed to the designated Government representative (e.g., Contracting Officer Representative (COR), Requiring Activity (RA) representative, or Contracting Officer (if a COR or other RA representative is not appointed)). Contract personnel are critical to the overall security and safety of US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) installations, facilities and activities, and security awareness training contributes to those efforts. The Department of Defense (DoD) and Army security training requirements specified below, if applicable, are performance requirements; all applicable contract personnel shall complete initial training within 30 days of contract award or the date new contract personnel begin performance on the contract. Within five business days from the completion of training, the Contractor shall provide written documentation (e.g., email or memorandum) to the Government representative. The documentation shall include the names of contract personnel trained and which training they completed; the Contractor shall maintain training records as part of their contract files and be prepared to provide copies of training certificates to the Government representative. Contractor personnel and vehicles are subject to search when entering federal installations. Additionally, all contract personnel shall comply with Force Protection Condition (FPCON) measures, Random Antiterrorism Measures (commonly referred to as “RAMs”), and Health Protection Condition (HPCON) measures. The Contractor is responsible for meeting performance requirements during elevated FPCON and/or HPCON levels in accordance with applicable RA plans and procedures --this includes identifying mission essential and non-mission essential personnel. In addition to the changes otherwise authorized by the changes clause of this contract, should the FPCON or HPCON levels at any individual facility or installation change, the Government may implement security changes that affect contract personnel. The Contractor shall ensure all contract personnel are aware of their security responsibilities, including any site-specific requirements identified in local policies or procedures.

All contract personnel requiring physical access to a federal installation or facility shall comply with the access control procedures of that location. Contract personnel requiring unescorted access to meet contract performance requirements on a DoD installation in the US shall be vetted by the installation/facility Provost Marshal/Directorate of Emergency Services/Security Office using the National Crime Information Center- Interstate Identification Index (commonly referred to as “NCIC-III”) and Terrorist Screening Database (commonly referred to as “TSDB”). Contract personnel shall comply with all personal identity verification requirements specified in installation/facility policies and procedures. Contract personnel who do not meet requirements for unescorted access to USACE facilities shall coordinate escorted access with the Government representative, as needed. Contract personnel who receive keys, access cards, or lock combinations that provide access to government-owned property shall comply with key and lock control procedures of the RA.

All contract personnel shall receive initial and annual refresher training from the RA representative on the local suspicious activity reporting program. This locally developed training provides contract personnel with general information on suspicious behavior, and guidance on reporting suspicious activity to the project manager, security representative or law enforcement entity.

Contractors shall comply with the requirements set forth in FAR clause 52.222-54 Employment

Eligibility Verification and FAR Subpart 22.18 in using the E-Verify Program at (https://www.e-verify.gov/) (website subject to change) to meet the contract employment eligibility requirements. Contractors are encouraged to cooperate with Federal and State agencies responsible for enforcing labor requirements to include eligibility for employment under United States immigration laws in accordance with FAR 22.102-1(i). An initial list of verified/eligible candidates shall be provided to the COR no later than three business days after the initial contract award. When contracts are with individuals, the individuals will be required to complete a Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, and submit it to the Contracting Officer to become part of the official contract file.

C-1.13.1 SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY REQUIREMENTS

All Contractors and subcontractor employee(s) working on this contract who require access to any

Louisville District Lake Projects and Lock and Dam Projects shall receive authorization to be on site at these facilities based upon a favorable background investigation in accordance with “Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12: Policy for a Common Identification Standard for Federal Employees and Contractors” (HSPD 12).

The Louisville District Security Management Office shall submit contractor(s) personal information to complete the basic background investigation in order to make a recommendation to the Contracting Office of an employee’s suitability for work on Government property. The Procuring Contracting Officer (PCO) has the right to deny any contractor or subcontractor employee from working on the contract based upon the results of the background investigation provided by the Louisville District Security Office. The Government, Contractor, and subcontractors shall not permit any employee(s) access to drawings, blueprints, records, photos, sites, or projects until the Louisville District Security Management Office has completed an Operations Security (OPSEC) review of such items and determined they can be released.

C-1.13.2 FOR ALL LOUISVILLE DISTRICT CONTRACTS

Contractors shall submit a complete investigation packet for each contractor and subcontractor employee to the Louisville District Security Management office within 10 working days after award of any contract, or prior to the individual being permitted access to Louisville District facilities.

The Contractor must also provide the following: (1) Name of the Contract Specialist with whom he/she is working, (2) Project Name, (3) Contract Number (4) Task Order Number when applicable, and (5) US Citizens Security Access Form each employee working on site must have a background investigation form submitted directly to the Louisville District Security Office.

The Contractor must provide a full legal name, complete SSN#, Date of Birth, Place of Birth (City and State) and Driver’s license number if available. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to ensure the above information is accurate and legible, otherwise delays may occur.

Contractors shall have background checks completed for their employees annually in the case of Contracts with an initial period of performance (POP) greater than 1 year and those Contracts with Options or Modifications Which Extend the POP beyond 1 year. For instance, if the employee was cleared in May of 2022, they shall be cleared again in May of 2023. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to ensure that each employee’s security is up to date. Failure to comply may lead to possible removal from the project/jobsite.

The Contractor must ensure if new employees are brought in to work on an existing Contract with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), they must process the employee through the Louisville District USACE Security Office for background purposes.

C-1.13.3 FOR CONTRACTORS REQUIRING DOD COMMON ACCESS CARDS (CAC)

The documents listed below are required: SF 85, Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (see http://www.opm.gov/forms/ to print form). Fingerprints are captured electronically at the closest Army Recruiting Station to the contractor’s home of record or at the USACE, Louisville District Security Office.

Contractor shall report any changes in personnel, or at any time conditions change at least 5 working days prior to individual(s) need to have access to the site. The Contractor shall provide the same information as listed above for all new employees.

Following submission of paperwork, the Louisville District Security Office will conduct an initial criminal check based upon the information provided. If there are no issues, the Louisville District Security Office will make recommendations to the PCO or their Designated Representative. The Louisville District Security Office cannot give approval due to unfavorable report(s). The Louisville District Security Office shall coordinate with Office of Counsel and will jointly make recommendations to the PCO and/or the Designated Representative should a background investigation come back with derogatory information. The PCO will make the determination whether to allow the Contractor personnel to work on the site based on Security and Office of Counsel recommendations, and the PCO will advise the Contractor of the decision.

C-1.13.4 FOREIGN NATIONALS

The Contractor shall provide the package listed above, as well as additional materials noted below for all Foreign Nationals. The Contractor is to expect additional time in the approval process for all Foreign Nationals due to the level of review and elevation of the review to Headquarters staff to complete. All Foreign Nationals must comply with the following paragraph:

In accordance with Engineering Regulation 380-1-18, “Technology Transfer, Disclosure of Information and Contacts with Foreign Representatives” dated 1 August 1996, Section 4, all foreign nationals who work on Corps of Engineers’ contracts shall be approved by the Headquarters US Army Corps of Engineers (HQ USACE) Foreign Disclosure Officer before beginning work on this contract; this regulation includes subcontractor employees. The Contractor shall submit to the Security Management Office, the names of all foreign nationals proposed for performance under this contract, along with documentation to verify legal admittance into the United States. Such documentation shall include at least one of the following: a U.S.

passport, Certificate of U.S. Citizenship (INS Form N-560 or N-561), Certificate of Naturalization (INS Form N- 550 or N-570), Alien Registration Card with photograph (INS Form I-151 or I-551), Employment Authorization Card (INS Form I-688A), etc.

In order to assure forms are properly completed, and to minimize time delays, the Contractor is encouraged to work closely with the Louisville District Security Office. The Government will return for correction incomplete forms, illegible forms, etc. which will delay the contractor / subcontractor from beginning work.

Security requirements are subject to change in accordance with HSPD-12, Office of Personnel Management, regulation, or policy changes, etc. The Government shall add any changes to security requirements by modification to the contract.

The Contractor shall contact the Louisville District Security Office by phone, letter, or email at the following numbers/addresses:

CELRL-SM

600 Martin Luther King Jr. Pl Louisville, KY 40202

Primary Email: DLL-CELRL-Security-SM@usace.army.mil

Alternate (if no response in 72 hours):

James R. Milner, phone (502) 315-6916; James.R.Milner@usace.army.mil Jason Almodovar, phone (502) 315-6754; Jason.Almodovar@usace.army.mil

C-1.14 FAR 52.222-50 COMBATTING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

The Contractor will provide written verification in an email or will document in their QCPMP plan that they have read/reviewed and will comply with FAR 52.222-50. Included in this written verification will be the actions the Contractor will take against employees or agents for violations of the policy at 52.222-50 (b). Such actions for employees may include, but are not limited to, removal from the contract, reduction in benefits, or termination of employment. Additionally, the written verification will include a statement that the Contractor has notified its employees and their agents of the policy prohibiting trafficking in persons and of the actions that will be taken by the Contractor for violations.

C-1.15 VETERANS EMPLOYMENT EMPHASIS FOR U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS

CONTRACTS

In addition to complying with the requirements outlined in FAR Part 22.13, FAR Provision 52.222-38, FAR Clause 52.222-35, FAR Clause 52.222-37, DFARS 222.13 and Department of Labor regulations, U.S.

Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) contractors and subcontractors at all tiers are encouraged to promote the training and employment of U.S. veterans while performing under a USACE contract. While no set-aside, evaluation preference, or incentive applies to the solicitation or performance under the resultant contract, USACE contractors are encouraged to seek out highly qualified veterans to perform services under this contract.

The following resources are available to assist USACE contractors in their outreach efforts:

- U.S. Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS):

https://www.dol.gov/vets/

- Federal Veteran Employment Information: https://www.fedshirevets.gov/

- Veterans Opportunity to Work (VOW) Program: https://www.benefits.va.gov/vow/

- U.S. Army Warrior Transition Command Employment Index:

https://wct.army.mil/modules/employers/index.html

- Hiring Our Heroes: https://www.uschamberfoundation.org/hiring-our-heroes

C-1.16 INVASIVE SPECIES

In order to prevent the spread of invasive species, the Contractor will take precautions before moving from one reservoir/watershed to another. The Contractor will remove all plant fragments from boat, propeller, and boat trailer before leaving the current reservoir/watershed. The Contractor will rinse any mud and/or debris from equipment and wading gear and drain any water from boats before leaving the reservoir/watershed. The Contractor will also thoroughly rinse off their boat and trailer with hot or high pressure water before entering a new reservoir. More information on preventing contamination of invasive species can be found at the website for the Colorado Parks and Wildlife – Boat Aquatic Nuisance Species Inspection and Decontamination (https://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/BoatInspection.aspx).

C-1.17 SAMPLING PLAN EXECUTION

In order for the Louisville District Water Quality Program to meet mission requirements, the most complete and accurate sampling plan shall be executed. The Contractor will strive to collect the most complete set of field data and samples that are part of the specified sampling plan. Before leaving any site or reservoir, the Contractor will review field sheets and collected samples to ensure that all readings and samples that are part of the sampling plan were collected. This will allow any deficiencies to be immediately corrected. If more than three readings and/or samples were not collected within the sampling event, the Contractor will be expected to repeat the entire sampling event at no additional cost.

If, in the opinion of the Contracting Officer, an error which is clearly the fault of the Contractor is encountered, the Contracting Officer may direct the Contractor to immediately contact the Government POC for purpose of rectifying the mistake. The Contractor shall perform such services in the manner directed by the Contracting Officer at no additional cost to the Government and on an expedited schedule. In the event that the Contractor should dispute the Contracting Officer’s decision in this regard, it shall be considered a dispute concerning a "question of fact" within the meaning of the Disputes clause of this contract and, pending final decision of the dispute, the Contractor shall proceed diligently with the work and services in accordance with the direction of the Contracting Officer.

C-1.18 CONTRACT AUTHORITY

The Contractor shall only accept instruction from the Contracting Officer or the duly appointed representative, and only do work that has been negotiated and authorized. Coordination of routine technical matters with USACE personnel shall be accomplished through the Government POC. Direct requests from others should be forwarded to the Government POC. The Government POC does not have the authority to modify the contract or otherwise add or subtract work.

C-1.19 PAYMENT

During the course of each task order, the Contractor shall submit monthly invoice(s) for payment by submitting a ENG Form 93 to the Government POC by the 15th of the following month. Monthly invoices will not be paid until all of the work included has been completed and associated paperwork and/or deliverables are received in the proper form and has been reviewed and accepted by the Government POC. Associated paperwork includes field data collected (both scanned hardcopy and Excel file), field notes, copies of airbills, copies of COC forms, and summary of equipment checks and calibration logs, submitted per the specified timeframes. Once all work required by the task order has been completed, the Contractor will submit a final invoice payment package which includes a completed ENG Form 93 and the Release of Claims (for an example Release of Claims see APPENDIX B. RELEASE OF CLAIMS EXAMPLE) to the Government POC.

C-1.20 PRICE BREAKOUT SCHEDULE DEFINITIONS

See below for definitions for items listed in the price breakout schedule:

“Roundtrip travel (mileage and labor) per sampling event” – this is the estimated cost associated with traveling to a reservoir to complete a sampling event. This includes travel to and from a reservoir. This includes mileage and gas costs as well as labor time spent on traveling to and from a reservoir.

“Lodging cost per night” – this is the estimated cost for lodging per night for work conducted at a reservoir. Lodging costs must include all rooms required for one night. The number of nights required for each reservoir will depend on the sampling plan defined in each task order.

“Per diem (meals) costs per day” – this is the estimated cost for per diem (i.e., meals) per day for work conducted at a reservoir. Per diem costs must include all costs for all personnel required for one day.

The number of days required for each reservoir will depend on the sampling plan defined in each task order.

“Quality Control and Program Management Plan” – see C-1.11 CONTRACTOR QUALITY

CONTROL AND PROGRAM MANAGEMENT PLAN.

“Health and Safety Plan” – see C-1.12 SAFETY.

“Reservoir site - regular collection” – see C-2.1 RESERVOIR SITE – REGULAR

COLLECTION.

“Reservoir site - regular and QC collection” – see C-2.2 RESERVOIR SITE – REGULAR

AND QUALITY CONTROL COLLECTION.

“Reservoir site - sediment collection” – see C-2.3 RESERVOIR SITE – SEDIMENT

COLLECTION.

“Stream site - regular collection” – see C-2.4 STREAM SITE – REGULAR COLLECTION.

“Stream site - regular and QC collection” – see C-2.5 STREAM SITE – REGULAR AND

QUALITY CONTROL COLLECTION.

“Stream site - sediment collection” – see C-2.6 STREAM SITE – SEDIMENT

COLLECTION.

“Reservoir site – zooplankton collection” – see C-2.7 RESERVOIR SITE –

ZOOPLANKTON COLLECTION.

SECTION C-2

COLLECTION METHODS

C-2.1 RESERVOIR SITE – REGULAR COLLECTION

For bid estimates, the “reservoir site – regular collection” line item in the price breakout schedule is defined as the collection of data and samples for a single sampling site (that is located on a reservoir) at all depths. A “reservoir site – regular collection” consists of:

One vertical profile of field data (as described in C-2.1.1 FIELD DATA COLLECTION) One set of field data sheets (as described in C-2.1.2 FIELD DATA SHEETS) Three water chemistry samples, one for each reservoir strata (as described in C-2.1.3 WATER

CHEMISTRY SAMPLE COLLECTION)

Four algae and four chlorophyll samples (as described in C-2.1.4 ALGAL SAMPLE

COLLECTION)

For bid estimates, the Contractor should assume that they will be collecting 3.5 liters of water at each sample station and depth for water chemistry samples at a “reservoir site – regular collection”. The Contractor should anticipate making all collections as specified in this PWS. However, if the Government changes the number of samples that are to be collected, it will be a reduction in the number of samples, never an addition.

C-2.1.1 FIELD DATA COLLECTION

The Contractor will use a portable, multi-parameter water quality sonde system (such as the YSI EXO2 multi-parameter sonde) to measure water temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), DO saturation, pH, specific conductivity, turbidity, chlorophyll, phycocyanin, and oxidation reduction potential (ORP) for all stations and for depths as described in this contract. The Contractor will use optical style sensors for DO, chlorophyll, and phycocyanin. All sondes will have a weight to minimize the cable from drifting in current. Data will be recorded on hardcopy field sheets in the field. Water temperature shall be measured to the nearest tenth of a degree Celsius, specific conductivity to the nearest umho/cm, pH to the nearest hundredth of a standard unit, DO to the nearest hundredth mg/L, DO saturation to the nearest hundredth %, turbidity in NTU, chlorophyll in µg/L and relative fluorescence units (RFU), phycocyanin in RFU, and ORP in millivolts. Data are to be recorded by hand onto field data sheets and digitized to create electronic data files that are compatible with Microsoft Excel. Scans of field data sheets and electronic data files shall be sent via e-mail to the Government POC within 5 calendar days of associated sample collection.

Cables shall be marked at 1', 5', and 10' increments beginning with the sensors as the 0' point. Marking is best accomplished using colored cable ties with one color for the five-foot increments and a different color for the one-foot increments. To aid in depth determination, a marking scheme shall be established by placing 2 ties at 20', 3 at 30', and following this scheme for the length of the cable. Depths will be recorded according to physical measurement using these ties rather than by the depth reported by the probe. Cable length and depth markings shall be able to accommodate a depth to 110'.

Thermal equilibrium of the sensors is absolutely necessary to avoid errors in the data. The unit shall be allowed to warm up for the minimum amount of manufacturer recommended time. For any particular measurement, the Contractor shall let the probe stabilize, e.g., when going from one depth to another. For example, the DO sensor is typically the slowest to attain equilibrium, therefore, when the DO reading stabilizes, all parameter readings may be read and recorded.

The Contractor is responsible for the maintenance and calibrations of all sensors. Instruments are to be calibrated according to the manufacturers’ recommendations. Manuals and supplies shall be readily available to the field crew to be used as needed. Calibration records shall be sent no less than monthly or within 5 business days of request by the Government POC. Instrument checks conducted in the field shall be recorded in a field crew notebook. Any problems with equipment experienced in the field shall be brought to the immediate attention of the Government POC. To ensure that field data is collected at the same time that water chemistry samples are collected, the Contractor will correct any equipment problems within 24 hours or reschedule the sampling event at no cost to the Government.

At reservoir sampling locations, the Contractor will measure water temperature, pH, specific conductivity, DO, DO saturation, turbidity, chlorophyll, phycocyanin, and ORP at five-foot increments beginning at the surface (0') to reservoir bottom and at each depth where any grab samples are collected, in addition to other depths throughout the water column as described in this contract.

A standard metal Secchi disc having four quadrants, two opposing black and two opposing white, is to be used at reservoir sampling sites. Secchi depth readings are recorded to the nearest inch. The proper procedure for reading the disk is as follows: lower the disk from the shaded side of boat, record the depth at which the disk disappears. Lower the disk further, then raise and record the depth at which it reappears. The average of the two depths is used as the Secchi disk reading and recorded on the field sheet.

Maximum depth of reservoir sample stations shall be recorded by the depth sounder onto the field sheets and transferred to the electronic data file.

Barometric pressure shall be recorded in mm Hg at the damsite during sampling. Most sonde communication devices have integrated barometers that will be acceptable for this measurement.

The Contractor will determine the depth of the euphotic zone (the strata of the reservoir from the surface down to the threshold where 1% of the surface photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) is available) and collect a PAR profile using light meters at all reservoir sites. Note that PAR measurements are measured in meters rather than feet. Two light sensors should be used simultaneously to ensure accurate measurements are collected.