Middle Fork Ranger District Wildlife Snag Creation

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

This project aims to create structures suitable for cavity nesting wildlife by treating standing trees to create dead wildlife trees or snags.

• The Contractor will develop a plan of operation, organize, and direct all necessary equipment and personnel.

• Services include furnishing all technical expertise, labor, equipment, supervision, transportation, operating supplies, and incidentals, except for Government-furnished items.

• Trees will be selected and treated according to contract specifications.

• Blasting is not permitted as a treatment method.

• Tools may include chainsaws, augers, or other hand tools.

• Documentation and digital mapping using approved software are required.

• Slash treatments are required if slash exceeds specifications.

• Specifics on treatment type, height, DBH ranges, limb retention, and documentation will be detailed in the Schedule of Items.

• Documentation and digital mapping must be submitted to the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) for inspection and approval.

• Slash treatments are required on all methods if slash exceeds specifications (Section 5.10).

• Treated trees will be measured for DBH, treatment height, number of live limbs below treatment height, GPS coordinates, evidence of use by wildlife, and stem decay.

• Tree registers must be completed legibly and submitted with project maps.

• Location: Willamette National Forest.

• Period of Performance: May 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026.

• Accessibility: Standard access is defined as passable by a 2-wheel drive vehicle or foot travel less than 1/4 mile. Motor vehicles must stay on existing spur roads. Access through locked gates requires coordination with the COR.

• Schedule: A prework meeting will be held, and the Contractor must provide a schedule with key milestones.

• Safety: A general safety plan complying with OSHA standards is required, along with a site-specific communication/safety/emergency plan. A minimum crew of two with climbing capabilities is required for tree climbing activities. Potential safety hazards are listed, including tree falling, fall hazards, travel on decommissioned roads, tree climbing, fire hazards, hazardous materials handling, crossing streams, and uneven ground.

• Government-Furnished Items: Electronic project area maps and Wildlife Tree signs will be provided.

• Contractor-Furnished Items: Contractor must provide supervision, labor, transportation, tools, materials, equipment, diameter tape, instruments for treatment height measurement, compass, aluminum nails, and GPS equipment.

• Biobased Products: Contractor shall utilize biobased products to the maximum extent possible.

• Tree Selection: General criteria include selecting Douglas-fir (unless specified otherwise), avoiding trees with nest structures or those susceptible to wind throw on ridge tops, and adhering to specific exclusion criteria (e.g., existing broken tops, mistletoe platforms, tagged/research trees, cultural trees with historic scars, pruned trees unless designated).

• Treatment Methods: High Girdling (Item 0001) and Base Girdling (Items 0002 and 0003) are detailed, involving removal of bark and cambium layers.

• Marking: Treated trees will have "Wildlife Tree" signs installed at DBH.

• Slash Treatment: Slash within 50 feet of an open road must be pulled back and scattered to a depth not exceeding 3 feet. Treetops must be removed from fire lines, trails, roads, and landings.

• Acceptance and Payment: Payment is on a tree-by-tree basis. Rework is at the Contractor's expense. Final payment is contingent on the return of all Government-furnished property and keys/locks.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to vendor questions regarding the "Middle Fork Snag Creation" opportunity, clarifying various aspects of the solicitation.

• Maps: The only available map is the one included with the solicitation, which is stated to work with Avenza.
• Invoicing: Contractors will invoice monthly for completed units. The COR will require approximately one week to inspect completed unit data.
• Limited Operating Periods (LOPs): Units 22, 22A, 22B, 22C, and 22D have seasonal restrictions from July 16-December 31. Other units have restrictions from May 1-December 31.
• Subcontracting: The provision does not require competitors to enter into subcontract agreements. It provides instructions for interested parties intending to submit an offer regarding subcontracting expectations. Offerors intending to subcontract must notify the Contracting Officer at the time of offer submission, providing the subcontractor's name, address, telephone number, and the subcontract's entry date and duration.
• Software & Data: Approved software for documentation and digital mapping is not specified beyond using a .gpx file compiled from GPS waypoints. Contractors can use sample tree registers or an electronic format with the same information. The map provided is georeferenced for Avenza.
• Road Closures: Roads noted as closed are bermed and not drivable; distances are straight-line. There are no locked gates.
• High Girdling: For high girdling (Line Item 0001), the objective is for the treated tree not to hit a road or trail if it falls (height + 40'). Specifications require 0 live limbs below the girdle height.
• Camp-On-Site: The Forest Service (FS) permits camping on-site, with a form to be submitted to the District Rangers for approval.
• Schedule Flexibility: The Period of Performance (PoP) can be modified due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
• Slash Management: Slash created within 50 feet of an open road must be pulled back and scattered to a depth not exceeding 3 feet. Treetops must be removed from fire lines, trails, roads, and landings.

These clarifications address specific requirements related to mapping, invoicing, operational periods, subcontracting procedures, data submission formats, technical specifications for tree treatment, and site access, which may influence bidder proposals and planning.

Amendment / Modification

• The solicitation has been extended to provide the Government more time to respond to vendor questions.

• Section 1.3.2 has been removed from the solicitation.

• The Period of Performance has been updated to 05/01/2026 to 12/31/2026.

• Section 1.3 (Accessibility) has been renumbered to reflect changes described in amendment 0001.

• Section 5.5 has been renumbered to reflect vendor questions and answers.

• The phrase "or in the center of each clump" has been removed from section 5.7.3.

• Section 1.3.2 (removed)

• Period of Performance (updated)

• Section 1.3 (renumbered)

• Section 5.5 (renumbered)

• Section 5.7.3 (text removed)

• The solicitation deadline is extended, providing more time for vendors to receive responses to questions.

Statement of Work (SOW)

This project aims to create structures suitable for cavity nesting wildlife by treating standing trees to create dead wildlife trees or snags.

• The contractor will develop a plan of operation, organize, and direct all necessary equipment and personnel.

• Services include tree selection, treatment (girdling), and documentation.

• Blasting is not permitted as a treatment method.

• Tools such as chainsaws, augers, or other hand tools may be used.

• Documentation and digital mapping are required.

• Slash treatment is required on all methods if slash exceeds specifications.

• Trees will be treated according to specific diameters (dbh), heights, and treatment types (High Girdling, Base Girdling).

• Specific criteria for tree selection and exclusion are provided (e.g., no nest structures, no trees susceptible to wind throw, specific defects).

• Treated trees will be marked with "Wildlife Tree" signs.

• Measurements of DBH, treatment height, number of live limbs, GPS coordinates, and evidence of decay are required.

• Tree registers and electronic GPS files must be submitted.

• Slash remaining within 50 feet of open roads must be pulled back and scattered to a depth not exceeding 3 feet.

• Treetops must be removed from fire lines, trails, roads, and landings.

• Location: Willamette National Forest.

• Period of Performance: May 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026.

• Accessibility: Standard access is defined as passable by a 2-wheel drive vehicle or foot travel less than 1/4 mile. Motor vehicles are restricted to existing spur roads. Access through locked gates requires coordination with the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).

• Safety: A general safety plan and a site-specific Communication/Safety/Emergency Plan are required, complying with OSHA standards. Specific potential safety hazards are identified, including tree falling, fall hazards, travel on decommissioned roads, tree climbing, fire hazards, and carrying heavy loads.

• Government-Furnished Property: Electronic project area maps and Wildlife Tree signs will be provided.

• Contractor-Furnished Items: Contractor must provide diameter tape, instruments to measure treatment heights, compass, aluminum nails, and GPS equipment compatible with agency systems.

• Biobased Products: Contractor shall utilize biobased materials where possible.

• Quality Assurance: The Government will periodically evaluate performance. The COR monitors technical aspects and performs inspections.

• Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Species: Operations may be stopped if such species are present.

Amendment / Modification

• The solicitation offer due date has been extended to no later than 1700 PT on March 23, 2026.

• Section 1.3.2 has been removed from the solicitation.

• The Period of Performance has been updated to 05/01/2026 to 12/31/2026.

• Section 1.3.2

• Offer due date

• Period of Performance

• The proposal submission deadline has been extended. Bidders should note the new due date of March 23, 2026.

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

This project aims to create structures suitable for cavity nesting wildlife by treating standing trees to create dead wildlife trees or snags.

• The Contractor will develop a plan of operation, organize resources, and direct equipment and personnel to accomplish the objectives.

• Services include selecting trees according to contract specifications, treating them using methods like High Girdling and Base Girdling, and documenting the work.

• Blasting is not permitted as a treatment method. Tools like chainsaws or augers may be used.

• Documentation and digital mapping using approved software are required.

• Slash treatments are required if slash exceeds specifications.

• Each Schedule of Items will detail treatment types, heights, DBH ranges, limb retention, and required documentation.

• Documentation and digital mapping must be submitted to the COR for inspection and approval.

• A general safety plan complying with OSHA standards must be developed and provided to the COR before work begins.

• A site-specific Communication/Safety/Emergency Plan is also required.

• Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan: The Government will periodically evaluate performance. A minimum sample of 10 percent of treated areas will be visually inspected.

• Location: Willamette National Forest.

• Period of Performance: May 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026.

• Accessibility: Standard access is defined as passable by a 2-wheel drive vehicle or foot travel less than ¼ mile. Additional payment may be made for extended walk-in mileage.

• Motor vehicles are restricted to existing spur roads and cannot bypass blocked roads without approval.

• Safety: Compliance with Oregon Administrative Rules, Chapter 437, Division 7, and all State safety laws (OSHA) is mandatory. A minimum crew of two with climbing capabilities is required.

• Potential safety hazards include tree falling, fall hazards from heights, travel on rough roads, tree climbing, fire hazards, crossing streams, and carrying heavy loads over steep ground.

• Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Species: Operations may be stopped if such species are present.

• Biobased Products: The Contractor shall utilize biobased materials to the maximum extent possible.

• Government-Furnished Property: Electronic project area maps and Wildlife Tree signs will be provided.

• Contractor-Furnished Items: Includes diameter tape, instruments to measure treatment heights, compass, aluminum nails, and GPS equipment.

• Tree Selection Criteria: Douglas-fir is the primary species unless otherwise specified. Trees with nest structures, susceptible to wind throw, or with specific defects (e.g., broken tops, root rot, tagged trees) shall not be treated. Trees must be within unit boundaries and designated treatment heights/DBH ranges.

• Marking Treated Trees: Treated trees will have a "Wildlife Tree" sign installed at DBH.

• Documenting Treated Trees: Tree registers and electronic project maps must be submitted. Payment is on a tree-by-tree basis and requires proper marking and documentation.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, Exhibit 6, provides illustrations and instructions for tree treatment, specifically girdling. It serves as a visual guide for bidders to understand the required methods for tree preparation.

• Illustration 2A: Depicts girdling at the base or at specific height ranges (50-55, 60-65, 70-75, & 80-85 ft). Requires removal of all live branches below the girdle.
• Illustration 2B: Depicts girdling at the top or at specific height ranges (50-55, 60-65, 70-75, & 80-85 ft). Requires removal of all or most live branches below the girdle.
• General Instruction for 10-14" DBH: For trees with a Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) between 10-14 inches, all live limbs below the girdle must be removed for a distance of 10 feet.
• Girdle Width: Illustrations indicate a 12" wide girdle.

This exhibit is crucial for bidders to understand the specific physical requirements for tree treatment as part of the opportunity. It details the methods, dimensions, and height specifications for girdling and branch removal, which will directly impact how the work is performed and evaluated.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, titled "Tree Register," appears to be a standardized form or template used for recording data related to tree treatments and characteristics. It is likely intended to be used in conjunction with a government contract or project involving land management, forestry, or ecological restoration.

The form includes fields for:

• Project/Unit Area identification
• Road number
• Township, Range, Section, and Quarter Section
• Date Treated
• Directions to Reference Tree
• Treatment Type (TT) with detailed descriptions and size ranges (e.g., chainsaw topping, girdling, cavity creation, sap wells, bat crevices)
• Snag number
• Diameter at Breast Height (DBH)
• Treatment Height (in feet)
• Climber Name
• Comments

Additional sections in later pages provide more detailed codes for treatments, aspects, tree species, inoculum types, and remarks, suggesting a comprehensive data collection system.

Bidders may need to use this form to record data if their contract involves specific tree treatment activities. Understanding the detailed treatment types and data fields is crucial for accurately reporting on work performed. The form provides a standardized method for documenting the scope and execution of tree management tasks, which would be essential for progress reporting and contract compliance.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document appears to be a data table detailing specific units within a "Sale Area Name" (likely "Lone"). It provides information related to timber or tree management, including the number of acres, total trees to snag, and counts of trees categorized by size and type (High Girdle, Base Girdle). It also specifies tree species, walk-in/access comments, and the implementation period of performance for each unit.

• Units: Individual management units are listed with associated acres and tree counts.
• Tree Snagging Data: Details on trees designated for snagging, categorized by size (10-19" DBH, 20-28") and girdling method (High Girdle, Base Girdle).
• Tree Species: Primarily "Douglas-fir" is listed.
• Access Information: Comments on walk-in distances or vehicle access for each unit.
• Performance Period: Implementation periods range from "1 May - 31 December 2026" to "16 July - 31 December 2026".

This document is crucial for bidders to understand the scope and location of work related to tree management. It provides specific quantities and locations, which are essential for estimating costs, planning logistics, and assessing the feasibility of the opportunity. The detailed breakdown of trees to be snagged and the implementation periods directly inform the work required.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a map illustrating the "Lone TS KV Wildlife Snag Creation" project area within the Willamette National Forest, Middle Fork Ranger District. It delineates specific units designated for "Natural Stand Snag Creation" and "Thinned Stand Units," as well as areas marked as "Road Closed."

• Project Area: Lone TS KV Wildlife Snag Creation
• Location: Willamette National Forest, Middle Fork Ranger District, within specific sections (S33, T20S, R1E WM; S33, T20S, R2E WM; S33, T21S, R1E WM; S33, T21S, R2E WM).
• Unit Designations: Clearly marked units for "Natural Stand Snag Units" (outlined in brown) and "Thinned Stand Units" (outlined in blue).
• Road Closures: Indicated by black dots.
• Topographical Information: Includes contour lines and elevation markers.
• Scale and North Arrow: Provided for spatial reference.

This map is crucial for bidders to understand the geographical scope and specific locations of the work to be performed. It visually defines the areas where snag creation and thinning activities are to take place, as well as access restrictions due to road closures. Bidders should use this map to assess the terrain, unit boundaries, and overall project layout to inform their bidding strategy and operational planning.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a Wage Determination (No. 1977-0079, Revision No. 81) issued by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment Standards Administration, Wage and Hour Division. It establishes the minimum wage rates and fringe benefits required for various occupations employed on contracts for Forestry and Logging Services in Oregon.

• Occupational Codes and Titles: Lists specific job titles within Forestry and Logging Services (e.g., Brush/Precommercial Thinner, Choker Setter, Forestry Equipment Operator).
• Wage Rates: Provides the minimum hourly wage rate for each listed occupation.
• Fringe Benefits: Indicates that fringe benefits are required and follow the occupational listing. Specific benefits mentioned include:
  • Health & Welfare: $5.55 per hour (up to 40 hours/week) or $222.00 per week / $962.00 per month.
  • Health & Welfare (EO 13706): $5.09 per hour (up to 40 hours/week) or $203.60 per week / $882.27 per month, applicable to contracts covered by EO 13706.
  • Vacation: 2 weeks paid vacation after 1 year of service, 3 weeks after 10 years.
  • Holidays: A minimum of eleven paid holidays per year.
• Executive Order Notes: Includes information regarding Executive Order 13706 (Paid Sick Leave) and Executive Order 13658 (Minimum Wage), outlining their applicability and requirements for federal contractors.
• Uniform Allowance: Details requirements for contractors regarding uniform provision and maintenance, including reimbursement rates if applicable.
• Conformance Process: Outlines the process for requesting additional classifications and wage rates if an occupation is not listed in the determination.

This wage determination is crucial for bidders responding to solicitations for Forestry and Logging Services in Oregon. It mandates the minimum wages and benefits that must be paid to service employees performing work under such contracts. Bidders must ensure their proposals account for these labor costs to be compliant and competitive. The document also clarifies the process for handling unlisted job classifications, which may be necessary for accurate proposal development.