GAOA Iargo Springs Interpretive Site Stair and Boardwalk Renovation

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document is a log of questions and answers related to Solicitation No. 12445526B0002 for the HMF Iargo Spring Stairs Replacement project.

• Alternate Offers: Alternate offers are permitted but must be submitted in writing to the Contracting Office at least seven (7) days prior to bid opening, including a complete description of the alternate and its deviations from specifications. The Issuing Office will determine acceptability, and a change notice will be issued if approved. Failure to follow this process may result in the bid not being considered.
• Equipment Access: Access to the stairs is via sidewalks near the parking lot, approximately 100 feet from the project start. Mini excavators or skid steers can be accommodated. Any damage caused by equipment must be remediated. The government prefers restoration to the existing grade and discourages cutting a wide, flat road down the hill, prioritizing site integrity.
• Project Scope: The project involves replacing approximately 300 stairs, decking, and landing areas from the parking lot to the AuSable River. Some boardwalk repair and new railing installation are also included. All demolished materials must be legally disposed of.
• Completion Date: The completion date is 545 days after the Notice to Proceed. The 2027 date mentioned in the system is a mandatory field and not a hard deadline. The government believes the work can be completed in one construction season and prefers to avoid shutting down the site for two consecutive peak seasons.
• Site Access & Public Safety: The site will be closed to the public during construction. The contractor is responsible for barricading the parking lot and work site. The Forest Service will provide official closure notices. The contractor must provide appropriate safety barricades and signs as per FAR Clause 52.236-13.
• Helical Piles: Helical piles can be considered as an alternative to concrete footings if they meet design load requirements and are approved by a PE review, considering frost depth, slope, and soils. The initial design used helical piles, but contractor access for installation was a concern.

Bidders must adhere to the strict timelines and procedures for submitting alternate offers. The clarification on equipment access and site restoration significantly impacts construction methodology. The completion date is tied to 545 days after Notice to Proceed, not the 2027 date. Contractors are responsible for site closure and safety measures.

Other / Unclassified

This document is a Google Maps screenshot showing the location of "Iargo Springs." It includes an aerial view of the surrounding area, with roads and a body of water visible. Text below the image indicates "Delays" with "Light traffic in this area" and "No known road disruptions." It also notes that "Traffic incidents will show up here."

This document provides a visual reference for the location of "Iargo Springs" and offers current traffic conditions for the immediate area. This information may be relevant for bidders needing to understand the logistical context or potential access challenges related to the opportunity's performance location.

Other / Unclassified

This document is an attendance sheet for a Pre-Bid Meeting for the GAOA Iargo Springs Interpretive Site Stair and Boardwalk Renovation project. The meeting was held on February 10, 2026, at 1:00 pm at the Huron Shores Ranger Station in Oscoda, MI.

This document lists companies and individuals who attended the pre-bid meeting. It includes their names, companies, mailing addresses, and phone numbers/email addresses. This information can be relevant to potential bidders as it indicates which other entities are interested in the opportunity and may provide contact information for networking or understanding the competitive landscape.

Amendment / Modification

• This amendment (0004) adds attachments 07 EGLE Permit and 08 Soil Boring Logs to the solicitation.

• It makes available the attendance lists for the site visit that occurred on 02/10/2026.

• It distributes answers to questions that were received.

• The solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14.

• The document does not explicitly state if proposal deadlines or evaluation factors were modified, but it does note that offers must acknowledge receipt of this amendment.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for construction services to renovate the stairs and boardwalk at the Iargo Springs Interpretive Site. The government intends to make a single Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contract award.

• Renovation of stairs and boardwalk at the Iargo Springs Interpretive Site.

• The USDA requires completion of all line items by 545 days after the contractor receives the Notice To Proceed (NTP). Early completion is acceptable.

• Award Type: Firm Fixed Price (FFP)

• Estimated Magnitude: $1,000,000 to $5,000,000

• Period of Performance: 545 days after Notice to Proceed.

• Bids must be submitted via email to debra.brinn@usda.gov and CC paul.boucher@usda.gov no later than 2:00 P.M. (Eastern) on 03/05/2026.

• A complete bid must include Attachment 02 Schedule of Items (all items priced) and acknowledgement of any amendments.

• For bids with a subtotal for all base items exceeding $150,000.00, a bid bond on Standard Form 24 (SF-24) is required.

• Award will be made to the lowest priced, responsible offeror who is responsive to the solicitation.

• Offerors agree to hold prices firm for 90 calendar days from the bid receipt date.

• The document lists numerous FAR clauses related to small business concerns, including "Notice of Total Small Business Set-Aside" (52.219-6) and "Small Business Subcontracting Plan" (52.219-9), indicating potential set-aside considerations.

• Several attachments are referenced for further contract requirements, including Schedule of Items, SOW and Specs, Plans, Map, Wage Rates, EGLE Permit, and Soil boring logs.

• The solicitation incorporates many FAR clauses by reference, which are available electronically at https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52.

Permit

This document is a permit issued by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), Water Resources Division, to Heather Jamison for activities impacting wetlands and streams at the 35-largo Springs-Oscoda site. The permit is valid from July 24, 2023, to July 24, 2028.

• Temporary Wetland Impact: Remove 249 linear feet of boardwalk and 5.3 linear feet of stairs, impacting 0.037 acres of wetland.
• Permanent Wetland Impact: Construct a 6-foot wide by 221-foot long elevated, open pile boardwalk; construct a 7-foot wide by 17-foot long staircase; and place 122 cubic yards of fill for earthen pathways, impacting 0.104 acres of wetland.
• Inland Lake Construction: Construct two permanent 6-foot wide by 199.5-foot long elevated, open pile boardwalks with two 14-foot wide by 15-foot long platforms on Cooke Dam Pond.
• Stream Construction: Place up to 6 cubic yards of fill along 58.3 linear feet of streams for earthen pathways.

Not applicable (this is a permit, not a solicitation).

Not applicable.

Not applicable.

• All work must be completed in accordance with approved plans and permit specifications.
• The permittee must comply with various sections of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (NREPA), including those related to inland lakes, streams, wetlands, dam safety, shorelands, submerged lands, sand dunes, and floodplain regulations.
• Specific conditions apply to construction timing (dry periods or frozen wetlands), erosion control, material disposal, and site restoration.
• The permit does not waive requirements for Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control or other necessary local, state, or federal permits.
• Any changes to the permitted activity require written approval from EGLE.
• The permit may be transferred with EGLE's written approval.
• The permittee must provide a copy of the permit to all contractors and subcontractors involved.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document contains "Soil Classification Information" and a "Unified Soil Classification and Symbol Chart" which serve as keys and reference materials for interpreting boring logs. It also includes "Log of Boring" sheets for multiple boreholes (SB-1 through SB-10).

• Soil Classification Information: Provides a detailed key for describing soil types, including particle size, relative density, consistency, and moisture content, along with abbreviations and notes.
• Unified Soil Classification and Symbol Chart: Outlines the USCS system for classifying soils, differentiating between coarse-grained and fine-grained soils, and includes laboratory classification criteria and a plasticity chart.
• Log of Boring Sheets (SB-1 to SB-10): Each sheet details the soil description, depth, sample type, blow counts, recovery, and test results for individual boreholes drilled at the "Huron-Manistee Largo Springs" project location in Oscoda, MI.

This document is crucial for bidders to understand the subsurface soil conditions at the project site. The boring logs provide specific data on soil types encountered at various depths, their properties, and groundwater levels. This information is essential for assessing site suitability, planning construction activities, estimating costs, and developing proposals that account for potential geotechnical challenges.

Other / Unclassified

This document is an attendance report for a pre-bid meeting and site visit held virtually via TEAMS and in person for the Iargo Springs project on February 10, 2026. It lists participants from various organizations, including government personnel from USDA/USFS and attendees from companies such as B&B Industries, Power Construction Group, Surveying Solutions Inc. (SSI), LZ Design Build Group, Deverman Building, Miller Bridge Construction, and Redtail Land Solutions.

This attendance report can be relevant to bidders as it identifies key government personnel involved in the opportunity (e.g., Contract Specialist, Contracting Officer Representative, Contracting Officer) and lists companies that attended the pre-bid meeting. This information may be useful for networking, understanding the competitive landscape, or identifying potential partners or subcontractors who have expressed interest in the project.

Other / Unclassified

This document is a screenshot from a mapping service (likely Google Maps or similar) showing the location of "Iargo Springs." It displays an aerial view of a wooded area adjacent to a body of water, with a road labeled "River Rd" and "Iargo Rd." A parking area and a walking path leading to the springs are visible. A red pin marks the "Iargo Springs" location.

This document serves as a visual aid to identify the geographical location of Iargo Springs. For bidders, it may be relevant if the opportunity involves work at or near this specific location, such as environmental services, park maintenance, or infrastructure development in the vicinity. It helps to understand the site context and accessibility.

Other / Unclassified

This document provides instructions on how to follow specific projects on SAM.gov to receive email alerts for any changes or updates. It outlines the steps for logging into SAM.gov, searching for a project or solicitation, and clicking the "Follow" button to enable notifications. It also explains how to "Unfollow" a project to stop these alerts.

This document is relevant to potential bidders as it explains a feature within SAM.gov that allows them to stay informed about changes to opportunities they are interested in. By following a solicitation, bidders will receive email notifications for amendments, additional information, or questions posted, which is crucial for preparing accurate and timely proposals. It also provides an example of an update notification email, showing the type of information that will be communicated.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for construction services to renovate the stairs and boardwalk at the Iargo Springs Interpretive Site. The government intends to award a single Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contract.

• Construction services for stairs and boardwalk renovation.

• The "SOW and Specs" document (79 pages, dated 07/14/2025) provides further contract requirements.

• The "Schedule of Items" document (3 pages, dated 12/29/2025) must be priced by all bidders.

• Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price (FFP).

• Period of Performance: 545 Days after the Notice To Proceed (NTP). Early completion is accepted.

• Estimated Magnitude: Between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000.

• Bids must be emailed to debra.brinn@usda.gov and CC paul.boucher@usda.gov by 2:00 P.M. (Eastern) on 03/05/2026.

• A complete bid must include the "Schedule of Items" with all items priced and acknowledgement of any amendments.

• For bids with a subtotal for base items exceeding $150,000.00, a bid bond on Standard Form 24 (SF-24) is required.

• Award will be made to the lowest priced, responsible, and responsive offeror.

• Offers must be held firm for 90 calendar days from the bid receipt date.

• Various clauses related to small business concerns, HUBZone, and other set-asides are listed, including "Notice of Total Small Business Set-Aside" (52.219-6) and "Small Business Subcontracting Plan" (52.219-9).

• Offerors are urged to inspect the site.

• Questions regarding the solicitation should be emailed to paul.boucher@usda.gov and amy.lesher@usda.gov.

• The solicitation incorporates numerous FAR clauses by reference, covering areas such as labor standards, Buy American, insurance, and payment terms.

Amendment / Modification

• This amendment (0003) replaces attachment 01, "Solicitation Terms and Conditions," with a new attachment dated 02/09/2026.

• The new attachment includes required language for contract awards using Invitation for Bid (IFB) procedures.

• Attachment 01 (Solicitation Terms and Conditions)

• The period of performance is now stated as 03/16/2026 to 09/13/2027.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for construction services to renovate the stairs and boardwalk at the Iargo Springs Interpretive Site. The government anticipates awarding a single Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contract.

• Construction services for renovation of stairs and boardwalk.

• The project requires completion within 545 days after the Notice to Proceed (NTP).

• Estimated contract value is between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000.

• The contract type is anticipated to be Firm Fixed Price (FFP).

• Bids must be emailed to debra.brinn@usda.gov and cc paul.boucher@usda.gov by 2:00 P.M. (Eastern) on 03/05/2026.

• Bids must include pricing for all items, Attachment 02 Schedule of Items, and acknowledgement of amendments.

• Bids exceeding $150,000.00 require a bid bond on Standard Form 24 (SF-24).

• Offerors must hold prices firm for 90 calendar days from the specified receipt date.

• Questions should be submitted via email to paul.boucher@usda.gov and amy.lesher@usda.gov.

• The solicitation includes provisions for Small Business Concerns and Small Business Teaming Arrangements or Joint Ventures.

• Specific clauses related to Buy American, Trade Agreements, and HUBZone concerns are included.

• The document lists numerous FAR clauses and provisions applicable to this construction contract, covering areas such as labor standards, payment, insurance, and contract administration.

• A site visit is strongly recommended.

• The government estimates the magnitude for all base and option items combined will be between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000.

Amendment / Modification

• Amendment 0002 replaces the original solicitation terms and conditions with an updated copy dated 02/02/2026.

• Incorporates required FAR clauses: 52.222-13, 52.222-55, and 52.223-2.

• Provides minimum insurance requirements in accordance with FAR 52.228-5.

• Solicitation terms and conditions.

• Incorporation of specific FAR clauses.

• Insurance requirements.

• The effective date of this amendment is 02/02/2026.

• The Period of Performance is now 03/16/2026 to 09/13/2027.

Other / Unclassified

This document provides details for a pre-bid meeting and site visit for the HMF Iargo Springs opportunity (12445526B0002). It specifies the date and time for the meeting, as well as options for in-person or virtual attendance.

Potential bidders should note the following:

• Date: February 10, 2026
• Time: 1:00 PM Eastern Time
• In-Person Location: Huron Shores Ranger Station, 5761 N. Skeel Road, Oscoda MI 48750
• Virtual Attendance: Via Microsoft Teams (link, Meeting ID, and Passcode provided)
• Dial-in Option: Available via phone with Conference ID provided.

Amendment / Modification

• Amendment 0001 provides notice regarding a pre-bid meeting.

• The pre-bid meeting is scheduled for 02/10/2026 at 13:00.

• Further details about the pre-bid meeting are available in the SAM notice titled "HMF Iargo Springs Pre Bid Teams Information".

• The document references an attachment related to the SAM notice for pre-bid meeting information.

• The Period of Performance has been updated to 03/16/2026 to 09/13/2027.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for construction services to renovate the stairs and boardwalk at the Iargo Springs Interpretive Site. The government intends to award a single Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contract.

• Construction services for stairs and boardwalk renovation.

• The project requires completion of all line items within 545 days after the Notice To Proceed (NTP).

• Estimated magnitude for all base and option items combined is between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000.

• The contract type is anticipated to be Firm Fixed Price (FFP).

• Bids must be emailed to debra.brinn@usda.gov and CC paul.boucher@usda.gov by 2:00 P.M. (Eastern) on 03/05/2026.

• A complete bid must include Attachment 02 Schedule of Items (all items priced) and acknowledgement of any amendments.

• Bids exceeding $150,000.00 for all base items require a bid bond on Standard Form 24 (SF-24).

• Offers must be held firm for 90 calendar days from the date specified for receipt of offers.

• Questions should be submitted via email to paul.boucher@usda.gov and amy.lesher@usda.gov.

• Various clauses indicate potential set-asides and preferences, including for small businesses, HUBZone concerns, and Buy American requirements.

• The solicitation incorporates numerous FAR clauses by reference, which are detailed throughout the document.

• A site visit is urged and expected for offerors.

• The government estimates the magnitude for all base and option items combined will be between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This project involves site improvements at the Iargo Springs Interpretive Site in Iosco County, Michigan. This is a re-solicitation of a previously awarded contract, with modifications to the original package.

• Removal and replacement of the existing wood stair from the upper parking area to the lower boardwalk.

• Removal and replacement of the upper observation platform decking and railings.

• Removal of a stairway and landing near the dam at the lower level, and installation of a railing at the end of the remaining landing.

• An optional bid item for select boardwalk maintenance.

• Davis Bacon wages apply as this is a Federal Construction project.

• The site will be closed to the public during construction.

• Construction activities, excluding clearing and tree removals, shall be performed efficiently during consecutive workdays.

• Bidders are required to provide a project schedule as part of the proposal.

• Period of Performance: 545 days from the date of the Notice to Proceed.

• Notice to Proceed date is negotiable.

• Project Location: Iosco County, Michigan.

• Environmental Restrictions: No oak trees may be cut between April 15 and July 15 due to Oak Wilt fungus. The Forest Service will consider exceptions on a case-by-case basis.

• Submittals: A detailed list of required submittals and their schedules is provided, including construction schedule, list of subcontractors, Quality Control Plan, Soil Erosion & Sediment Control Plan, and product data.

• Bidders must provide a project schedule as part of their proposal.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a map indicating the "Iargo Springs Project Location" within Iosco County. It serves to visually define the geographical area relevant to the opportunity.

• The map displays roads, bodies of water, and geographical features.
• A specific area is highlighted and labeled as the "Iargo Springs Project Location."

This map is crucial for bidders to understand the physical scope and location of the project. It helps in assessing logistical requirements, site access, and the general environment of the work area.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a Schedule of Items, detailing the specific line items for a construction project. Bidders must use this schedule to enter their pricing for both base and option items.

• Base Items: Includes mobilization, construction survey and staking, soil erosion and sedimentation control, clearing and grubbing, demolition of existing structures (stairs, landings, boardwalk, platform, retaining wall, deck boards, rail), railing system replacement, observation platform decking replacement, stair and landing system replacement, and column foundation.

• Option Items: Includes soil erosion and sedimentation control, clearing and grubbing, and boardwalk maintenance.

• Units: Most items are listed in 'LS' (Lump Sum), with boardwalk maintenance in 'SF' (Square Feet).

• Pricing: Bidders are required to enter Unit Price and Total Amount for each line item. The document includes subtotals for base and option items, and a grand total.

• Pricing: This is the primary document for bidders to input their cost proposals. All line items must be priced for eligibility for award.

• Scope: The listed items define the scope of work for the project. Any work not listed is considered incidental.

• Contract Type: A Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contract is anticipated.

• Eligibility: Contractors must have an active SAM.gov registration. Pricing must be entered directly into the schedule.

• Site Inspection: Bidders are strongly encouraged to inspect the work site due to challenging conditions (steep slopes, sandy soils, wetlands).

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document contains the 100% construction documents for the Iargo Springs Interpretive Site. It includes a series of detailed drawings and specifications related to the construction, demolition, site improvements, and structural elements of the project.

• Cover Sheet (C-01): Project title, location map, forest location map, and index of all sheets.
• Topographic Survey (C-02): Detailed topographical information of the site, including contour lines and benchmark data.
• Site Demolition Plan (C-03): Outlines areas and items to be removed, including existing wooden structures and boardwalk components.
• SESC Plan (C-04) & Notes/Details (C-05): Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control measures and requirements.
• Site Improvement Plan (C-06): Illustrates planned improvements such as stairways, landings, and observation deck repairs.
• Structural Notes & Abbreviations (C-07): Provides general notes, material specifications for timber and hardware, and structural design data.
• Foundation Plans (C-08 to C-11): Detailed plans showing the layout and specifications for foundations in various areas (A, B, C, D).
• Profile Sheets (C-11, C-12): Show the vertical alignment and elevation changes for the left and right alignments of the project.
• Framing Plans (C-13 to C-17): Detailed plans for the framing of stairways, landings, and decks in different areas.
• Stair/Landing Plans (C-17, C-19, C-20): Detailed drawings of stair and landing construction, including cross-sections and elevation views.
• Deck Plans (C-18): Detailed framing plans for observation decks.

This comprehensive set of construction documents is critical for bidders to understand the full scope of work, including demolition, new construction, material requirements, and site preparation. It provides the detailed specifications necessary for accurate bidding and execution of the Iargo Springs Interpretive Site project.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document is a "General Decision Number" which provides prevailing wage rates and fringe benefits for various construction classifications in specific counties of Michigan. It serves as a reference for contractors to ensure compliance with labor standards on federal or federally funded construction projects.

• General Decision Number: MI20250042, with a publication date of 12/12/2025.
• Superseded Decision Number: MI20240042.
• State: Michigan.
• Construction Type: Heavy (Includes Water, Sewer Lines and Excavation, excluding Hazardous Waste Removal and similar pipeline construction).
• Counties Covered: Alpena, Crawford, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, and Roscommon Counties.
• Modification History: A list of publication dates for modifications 0 through 8.
• Wage Rates and Fringe Benefits: Detailed listings for various trades including Carpenter, Electrician, Power Equipment Operators (with classifications), Ironworker, Laborer, Cement Mason/Concrete Finisher, Plumber, Truck Driver, and others. Rates are provided for specific counties or groups of counties.
• Footnotes and Classifications: Explanations for specific operator classifications, crane operator premiums, and paid holidays.
• Executive Order Information: Notes on Executive Order 13706 (Paid Sick Leave) and Executive Order 13658 (Minimum Wage for Federal Contractors).
• Appeals Process: Information on how to appeal wage determination decisions.

Bidders must use this document to determine the minimum wage rates and fringe benefits that must be paid to laborers and mechanics employed on the construction work covered by the solicitation. This information is critical for accurate cost estimation and ensuring compliance with labor laws, which is often a requirement for contract award.