Helena National Forest - Park Lake Dam Rehabilitation

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides answers to questions submitted by potential bidders regarding Solicitation 1240LU26Q000013, dated January 30, 2026.

• Dental Concrete Measurement: Compaction Grouting for the Dam Foundation will be measured in "units" per boring and location shown on drawings.
• Campground Closure/Use: The campground can be closed to the public during construction. Employees may use campers for living quarters.
• Fencing: Fencing required is Silt Fencing, detailed on Sheet 4, and is a standalone line item.
• Staff Gauge: Details for the staff gauge will be provided in Amendment 0004, which will also include specifications for replacing the Early Warning System.
• Piezometers in Saddle Dike: Amendment 0004 will clarify the addition of 3 piezometers to pay item "64003 Instrumentation (Piezometers)", increasing the quantity from 12 to 15. Locations are subject to COR approval.
• Measurement of Bid Items (CQ/AQ/LSQ): Line items measured in Cubic Yards (CY) are Contract Quantity (CQ). All other units are Actual Quantity (AQ), except for Lump Sum (LS) items which are Lump Sum Quantities (LSQ).
• Contract Quantity Adjustment: The +/- 15% adjustment for Contract Quantity items is noted, with the government indicating potential benefit to the contractor.
• Burning: Burning of cleared trees is not allowed; disposal must follow specifications.
• Borrow Material: Specifications for "20403 Borrow for Grout Mix" can be found in section "262-Compaction Grouting".
• Performance Testing (26203): This bid item is measured by Actual Quantity (AQ) and includes SPT drilling for both pre- and post-grouting.
• Hydraulic Seepage Control Barrier: These bid items (26204, 26205, 26206, 26207) are measured by Actual Quantity (AQ). Compaction grout holes are staggered and not overlapped, except for correcting failed test locations.

Several clarifications, particularly regarding instrumentation and measurement of bid items, will be formally incorporated via Amendment 0004. Bidders should review these amendments for precise details. The document also clarifies the measurement basis for various bid items, impacting how quantities will be tracked and paid.

Amendment / Modification

• Amendment 0003 adds a new Attachment 9, the Emergency Action Plan (26 pages).

• All other terms and conditions remain unchanged.

• The closing date and time for offers remains Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 4:00 PM MST.

• Attachment 9 (Emergency Action Plan) has been added.

• Proposal deadlines and requirements are unchanged.

• The contracting office clarified that no Q&A have been posted to date and expects them on Friday, January 30th. They apologized for a previous incorrect statement regarding 25 questions being posted on January 26th.

• The Period of Performance is from 05/01/2026 to 10/31/2027.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Attachment 9 Park Lake Dam EAP," contains Appendix B of the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for Park Lake Dam. It provides detailed information and data related to the dam's emergency preparedness and potential failure scenarios.

Appendix B is divided into several sub-sections:

• B-1 Resources Available: Details local equipment, labor, and materials that can be utilized during an emergency.
• B-2 Location and Vicinity Maps: Provides maps showing the dam's location and surrounding areas.
• B-3 Evacuation Map: Outlines structures at risk of flood damage and potential loss of life, referencing a "Final Downstream Inundation Report."
• B-4 Residents/Businesses/Highways at Risk: Lists specific properties, businesses, and roads that would be affected by a flood wave, including estimated travel times and water depths.
• B-5 Plan View of Dam: A diagram showing the layout of the main dam.
• B-6 Plan and Profile of Principal Spillway: Details the principal spillway's design and layout.
• B-7 Plan and Profile of Auxiliary Spillway: Details the auxiliary spillway's design and layout.
• B-8 Reservoir Elevation, Volume and Spillway Capacity Data: Provides data on reservoir storage, discharge capacities of different spillways, and total discharge at various elevations.
• B-9 National Inventory of Dams (NID) Data: Contains NID database information for Park Lake Dam, including physical characteristics, ownership, and regulatory details.

This document is crucial for understanding the potential risks and consequences associated with the Park Lake Dam. It provides critical data on inundation zones, affected populations and infrastructure, and the dam's physical characteristics. Bidders involved in projects related to dam safety, emergency management, civil engineering, or environmental assessments in this region would find this information highly relevant for risk assessment, planning, and response strategy development.

Amendment / Modification

• The closing date for price proposals has been changed due to a federal holiday.

• The new closing date and time for price proposals is Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 4:00 PM MST.

• Questions and Answers (Q1-Q25) have been posted in the Attachment Section.

• Item 11 (This item only applies to amendments of solicitations) indicates that the hour and date specified for receipt of offers is extended.

• Item 14 (Description of Amendment/Modification) details the changes to the proposal closing date and mentions the posting of Q&A.

• The deadline for submitting price proposals has been extended to Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 4:00 PM MST.

• Bidders are advised to review the posted Questions and Answers.

Amendment / Modification

• Adds Attachment 8_Appendix A & B to the list of Attachments.

• Clarifies that the date and time for quotes due remains unchanged.

• Provides an update regarding road accessibility to the lake, noting it is currently accessible with a high clearance 4WD vehicle, but new snowfall could change site conditions.

• List of Attachments (updated to include Attachment 8_Appendix A & B).

• Proposal deadline remains unchanged: February 16, 2026, at 1600 PM MST.

• Period of Performance remains unchanged: 05/01/2026 to 10/31/2027.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Attachment 8_Appendix A - B.pdf", contains geotechnical data, specifically "Appendix A - Geotechnical Data" and "Appendix B - Obliteration Details". The geotechnical data includes logs of borings (BH-PL1 through BH-9, B3, B4, B4A, B5, B6, BH-2, BH-3, BH-4, BH-5, BH-6, BH-7, BH-8, BH-9) detailing soil strata, blow counts, moisture content, and sample types. It also includes Atterberg Limit Results, Grain Size Distribution, and Direct Shear Test results for specific boring locations. Appendix B outlines methods for temporary haul road obliteration.

• Boring Logs: Detailed logs for multiple boreholes (BH-PL1, BH-2, BH-3, BH-4, BH-5, BH-6, BH-7, BH-8, BH-9, B3, B4, B4A, B5) with depth, geological description, drilling notes, and sample data.
• Laboratory Test Results: Atterberg Limit Results, Grain Size Distribution, and Direct Shear Test data for specific soil samples.
• Obliteration Details: Two methods for temporary haul road obliteration, including general notes on contractor responsibilities, equipment washing, and disposal of drainage structures.

This document provides critical subsurface soil and geological information relevant to the "Park Lake Dam" project. Bidders can use this data to understand the ground conditions, potential challenges for construction, and inform their bidding strategy. The obliteration details are relevant for any work involving temporary haul roads within the project scope.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document contains the 100% plans for the Park Lake Dam Rehabilitation project, including detailed engineering plans and specifications for Jefferson County, MT (Project #:18-200.24). It outlines the design and construction requirements for hydraulic seepage control, dam embankment, toe drain system, saddle dike, and associated site features.

• Index to Sheets (C0): Lists all included drawings.
• General Notes and Specifications (C1): Outlines project requirements, materials, standards, and safety.
• Hydraulic Seepage Control: Includes plans for a grout column barrier (bottom elevation 6325.00) and platform fill compacted to 95% of ASTM D-698 Standard Proctor.
• Toe Drain System: Details for 6" perforated and solid HDPE pipe, M1 drain sand, M2 gravel envelope, and cleanout structures.
• Dam Embankment: Specifies 18" thick FP-14 Class 2 riprap on a 9" M3 filter layer, chimney drain, and foundation excavation.
• Saddle Dike: Outlines plans for wave protection riprap (FP-14 Class 2), M3/M2 filter layers, crest elevation of 6372.00', and side slopes (2.5H:1V to 3H:1V). Requires stripping topsoil and slope preparation.
• Construction Details (D1-D7): Specifics for embankment sections, saddle dike sections, drain outlets, V-notch weir, grout holes, erosion control BMPs, road barriers, gate fabrication, and turnaround grading (20' wide, 6" thick crushed aggregate).
• General Notes: Material definitions, compaction, field fitting, spillway protection, and MUTCD standards for traffic control.

These plans are critical for potential bidders to understand the detailed technical specifications, site conditions, construction methodologies, material requirements, and design parameters for the Park Lake Dam Rehabilitation. Thorough review is essential for accurate cost estimation, resource planning, and developing a compliant proposal.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

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

• General Decision Number: MT20260075
• State: Montana
• Construction Type: Heavy
• Counties Covered: Beaverhead, Broadwater, Deer Lodge, Gallatin, Granite, Jefferson, Lewis And Clark, Madison, Meagher, Powell, Silver Bow, and Yellowstone National Park Counties.
• Classifications and Rates: Details specific wage and fringe benefit rates for various trades including Bricklayer, Electrician, Lineman, Power Equipment Operator, Ironworker, Laborer, Carpenter, and Truck Driver.
• Zone Definitions: Provides criteria for determining applicable rates based on distance from county courthouses for Power Equipment Operators and Laborers.
• Executive Orders: Notes applicability of Executive Order 13706 (Paid Sick Leave) and Executive Order 13658 (Minimum Wage) for federal contractors.

Bidders must use these prevailing wage rates to accurately estimate labor costs for their proposals. Failure to comply with these wage and benefit requirements can lead to contract violations. The document helps bidders determine if they can meet the labor cost requirements for the opportunity.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a Schedule of Items detailing the quantities and units for various tasks associated with the Park Lake Dam Rehabilitation project. It serves as a pricing and quantity breakdown for potential bidders.

• Preconstruction: Mobilization, access road improvements, staking, and traffic control.
• Clearing and Grubbing: Downstream clearing and grubbing.
• Deconstruction: Dam excavation, temporary material stockpiling, grout mix borrow, and dewatering.
• Reconstruction: Embankment fill, soil mixing, and riprap placement (Class 2).
• Filter/Bedding Layers: M1, M2, and M3 filter materials.
• Drainage Structures: Riser inlets and HDPE perforated/solid drain pipes.
• Seismic Foundation Improvement: Primary, secondary, and shallow borings with compaction grouting, and performance testing.
• Hydraulic Seepage Control Barrier: Shallow, mid-level, and deep borings with compaction grouting.
• Road Reconstruction: Grade survey, road surface aggregate, and fill for turnaround.
• Fencing and Gates: Installation of fencing and gates.
• Reclamation: Transplanting vegetation and temporary haul road obliteration.
• Saddle Dike: Soil borrow and filter/bedding layers.

This schedule provides critical information for bidders to understand the scope of work, estimate costs, and prepare their proposals. It outlines the specific quantities of materials and labor required for each task, including units of measure (e.g., CY, LS, SY, LNFT, UNITS, EA).

Specific notes are provided for certain items, such as "Quantity is in-situ," "Placement cost only," or "Placement is incidental," which bidders must consider when preparing their bids.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document, "Attachment 4_FSSS Specifications.pdf", contains Supplemental Specifications for the Park Lake Dam Rehabilitation project. It details specific requirements and modifications to standard specifications for various aspects of the construction work.

• Table of Contents: Outlines numerous supplemental specification sections (FSSS) covering topics from "Preface" and "Scope of Work" to specific construction elements like "Excavation and Embankment," "Riprap," "Compaction Grouting," and "Control of Water."
• Specific Modifications: The document details numerous changes and additions to existing sections, including:
  • Revisions to definitions and abbreviations (Section 101).
  • Deletion of Section 102 (Bid, Award, and Execution of Contract).
  • Detailed scope of work for dam rehabilitation (Section 103).
  • Additions and modifications to control of work, material sources, and acceptance of work (Sections 104, 105, 106).
  • Environmental protection and fire plan requirements (Section 107).
  • Deletion of Sections 108 (Prosecution and Progress) and 155 (Schedules for Construction Contracts).
  • Modifications to measurement and payment terms (Section 109).
  • Detailed requirements for Mobilization (Section 151), Construction Survey and Staking (Section 152), Contractor Quality Control (Section 153), Public Traffic (Section 156), Soil Erosion and Sediment Control (Section 157), Clearing and Grubbing (Section 201), Excavation and Embankment (Section 204), Roadway Obliteration (Section 211), Riprap (Section 251), Compaction Grouting (Section 262), Manholes, Inlets, and Catch Basins (Section 604), Fences, Gates and Cattle Guards (Section 619), Topsoil (Section 624), Turf Establishment (Section 625), Plants, Trees, Shrubs, Vines, and Groundcovers (Section 626), Control of Water (Section 630), and Outlet Works (Section 640).
  • Specifications for Soil (Section 704) and Rock (Section 705).
• Appendices: References Appendix A (Geotechnical Data) and Appendix B (Obliteration Details).

This document is critical for bidders as it defines the specific technical requirements, scope of work, and contractual terms for the Park Lake Dam Rehabilitation project. It supersedes or modifies standard specifications and provides detailed instructions on how the work is to be performed, materials to be used, and quality control measures. Bidders must thoroughly review these supplemental specifications to accurately estimate costs, develop their technical proposals, and understand their obligations.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a Performance Questionnaire intended to gather information from potential bidders regarding their experience and capability to perform the work described in Solicitation # 1240LU26Q0013 for the Park Lake Dam Rehabilitation project. It is used to evaluate a contractor's past performance and technical approach.

• Contractor Information (Name, Address, Telephone)
• Firm's years of experience in the relevant line of work.
• Details of projects completed within the last three years (Contract Amount, Type of Project, Date Completed, Contact Information).
• Current contractual commitments.
• History of failed or performance-bonded work.
• Site visit confirmation.
• Narrative of technical approach.
• Estimated progress rates for work items, including estimated days, hours per day, and start/end dates.
• Experience of principal individuals involved in the contract.
• Certification of accuracy and authorization for reference checks.

Bidders must complete this questionnaire accurately and thoroughly. The information provided will be used by the Forest Service to evaluate the bidder's ability to successfully complete the Park Lake Dam Rehabilitation project. It directly impacts the assessment of past performance and technical capability, which are crucial factors in the selection process.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items, issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for the Park Lake Dam Rehabilitation project. The project involves the rehabilitation of the Park Lake Dam located on the Helena Ranger District of the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. The work includes clearing and grubbing, dewatering, dam deconstruction and construction, seismic foundation work, hydraulic seepage control, road reconstruction, and reclamation.

• Rehabilitation of the Park Lake Dam.

• Work to be completed over two field seasons.

• Contractor is responsible for all labor, materials, tools, equipment, scheduling, and sequencing.

• Magnitude of Construction: Between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000.

• Contract Type: Anticipated firm fixed price contract.

• Period of Performance: Not explicitly stated, but work to be completed over two field seasons.

• Submission Deadline: Quotes are due on or before February 16, 2026.

• Submission Method: Via email to lisa.rakich@usda.gov.

• Required Documents: Quote must include Price Schedule (Attachment 2), Past Performance/Experience Questionnaire (Attachment 7), Written Technical Approach, and Bid Guarantee.

• Evaluation Criteria: Award will be made to the offeror representing the best value to the Government, based on a comparative evaluation of Relevant Experience, Past Performance, and Price.

• Offer Acceptance Period: Offerors agree to hold prices firm for 90 calendar days from the quote receipt date.

• This acquisition is set-aside for small business concerns.

• It is a Total Small Business Set-Aside.

• Applicable NAICS Code: 237990 Other Heavy & Civil Engineering Construction.

• Small Business Size Standard: $45 million.

• This solicitation incorporates provisions and clauses by reference. Full text can be accessed electronically at www.acquisition.gov.

• Several attachments are included: Solicitation Terms and Conditions, Schedule of Items/Pricing, Statement of Work, FSSS's Specifications, Plans/Drawings, Davis Bacon Wage Determination, and Past Performance Questionnaire.

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

This project involves the rehabilitation of the Park Lake Dam, located on the Helena Ranger District of the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest.

• Rehabilitation includes, but is not limited to: clearing and grubbing, dewatering of Park Lake, deconstruction of the existing dam, construction of a new dam, new seismic foundation, hydraulic seepage control, road reconstruction, and reclamation.

• The full scope of work is detailed in the Forest Service Supplemental Specifications (FSSS) and Drawings.

• The contractor is responsible for all labor, materials, tools, equipment, scheduling, and sequencing necessary to complete the work.

• Location: Park Lake Dam, Helena Ranger District, Jefferson County, MT (approximately 13 miles west of Clancy, MT).

• Period of Performance: Work to begin within 10 days of Notice to Proceed. Dewatering to start after July 15 of the first year of construction. All work to be completed by October 31, 2027.

• Notes: Mobilization and construction practices can begin prior to July 15, but dewatering cannot. Construction is expected in the 2026 and 2027 calendar years.

• Construction Season: Park Lake is a mountain lake with shorter construction seasons.

• Pre-Bid Tour: No pre-bid tour is scheduled. Prospective bidders are responsible for visiting the site prior to bidding. A Special Notice regarding site visits was posted on 9/24/2025 in SAM.gov.