F--CA-KERN NWR-SALT CEDAR REMOVAL
ID: 140FS125Q0032Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

INTERIOR, DEPARTMENT OF THEUS FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICEFWS, SAT TEAM 1Falls Church, VA, 22041, USA

NAICS

Landscaping Services (561730)

PSC

NATURAL RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- TREE THINNING (F014)

Set Aside

Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5) (SBA)
Timeline
    Description

    The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is seeking qualified small business contractors for a project focused on the removal of invasive salt cedar trees at the Kern National Wildlife Refuge in California. The procurement involves providing a sawyer crew to clear up to 18 acres of salt cedar, with contractors required to submit price quotes for options of 5 acres, 10 acres, and the full 18 acres, ensuring that cut trees do not exceed the height of existing vegetation. This initiative is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance of the refuge and promoting the health of native plant species. Quotes are due by February 4, 2025, with the project scheduled to take place from March 17, 2025, to May 30, 2025. Interested parties can contact Roger Lockhart at roger_lockhart@fws.gov or by phone at 404-679-7124 for further information.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Lockhart, Roger
    (404) 679-7124
    (404) 679-4057
    roger_lockhart@fws.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    This government document is an amendment (0001) to solicitation 140FS125Q0032, issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) in Falls Church, VA. The amendment aims to communicate updates regarding the solicitation and does not extend the deadline for receipt of offers. Prospective contractors must acknowledge receipt of the amendment using specified methods to avoid rejection of their offers. The primary content includes the transmission of B09 Solicitation Amendment Attachment 2, containing responses to questions raised by potential offerors. The period of performance for the associated project is outlined as March 17, 2025, to May 30, 2025. This amendment ensures transparency and clarity in the procurement process, reflecting the government’s commitment to communicate changes effectively to potential bidders while maintaining the timeline for the solicitation process.
    The document serves as an amendment to solicitation number 140FS125Q0032, detailing changes related to the submission of offers in response to a federal request for proposals (RFP). It outlines the requirements for contractors to acknowledge receipt of this amendment and specifies that failure to do so before the designated time may result in offer rejection. The amendment also includes information regarding the modification of contracts/orders, indicating that no further changes are made to the initial solicitation except for the transmission of the attachment, which contains responses to questions from prospective offerors. The amendment clarifies the timeline for the project, which is scheduled to run from March 17, 2025, to May 30, 2025. Key instructions for electronic communication and compliance are emphasized to ensure all parties are informed and able to respond accurately to the RFP. The document maintains all existing terms and conditions while reinforcing the importance of timely acknowledgment and adherence to the amended guidelines.
    The document outlines Request for Quotations (RFQ) number 140FS125Q0032 issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for a contract dedicated to the removal of invasive salt cedar trees at the Kern National Wildlife Refuge, California. It is a Total Small Business Set-Aside, inviting quotes from small business entities to provide a sawyer crew for this task. The scope involves cutting up to 18 acres of salt cedar using chainsaws, with vendors required to provide price quotes for three options: 5 acres, 10 acres, and 18 acres. The work period is set from March 17, 2025, to May 30, 2025. Contractors are expected to ensure that cut trees are not piled above the height of existing vegetation and must use existing access routes to the site. In compliance with federal guidelines, quotes are due by February 4, 2025. Contractors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) to be eligible for bidding. The document emphasizes environmentally responsible practices and specifies requirements for contractor qualifications, including compliance with various acquisition regulations. The emphasis on small businesses reflects the government’s objective to promote economic growth while tackling ecological issues.
    The solicitation 140FS125Q0032 pertains to a project by the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) at Kern National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in California, focused on removing salt cedar trees. The document discusses queries raised by potential bidders concerning the project specifications. One key request is for aerial maps highlighting the locations of the trees, which would assist in estimating walking distances as vehicles are prohibited on-site. A map with a transparent layer indicating tree locations has been provided to clarify this aspect. Additionally, bidders seek clarification on the dimensions of a designated performance area marked in white on the map, specifically referencing a 1000-foot scale to aid in labor and logistics estimation. These inquiries aim to enhance project understanding and ensure accurate proposals for the removal of the specified net acres of salt cedar. The document underscores the importance of detailed guidance for prospective contractors to facilitate effective planning and execution of the project.
    The solicitation 140FS125Q0032 outlines a new government contract requirement for the removal of salt cedar trees at the FWS Kern National Wildlife Refuge in California. Key points include submission requirements involving the completion of various forms and certifications, as well as the need for a Unique Entity ID. A site visit can be arranged by contacting the project leader, with specific access guidelines provided. The project is defined by acreage rather than the number of trees, focusing on clearing an 18-acre area as marked by refuge staff. Contractors can invoice for completed work under certain conditions, and weekend work may be permissible under specific temperature regulations. The document provides clear guidelines on project logistics, compliance, and operational expectations to ensure effective project execution while maintaining environmental standards.
    This document details Wage Determination 1977-0727 under the Service Contract Act, specifically for Forestry and Land Management Services applicable to contracts with the Department of Agriculture and Department of Interior, among others. It outlines prohibited services and necessary wage compliance linked to Executive Orders 14026 and 13658, mandating a minimum hourly wage of $17.75. The determination includes classifications for various forestry-related occupations, such as Brush/Precommercial Thinner, Fire Lookout, and Forestry Technician, each entitled to specific wage and fringe benefits. The document emphasizes health and welfare prerequisites, vacation entitlements, paid holidays, and required expenses for uniforms. It includes a process for classifying additional job roles not listed and procedures for the conformance of such classifications. The purpose of this wage determination is to guide contractors and ensure fair compensation for federally funded service contracts related to forestry and land management, ultimately supporting workers' rights and promoting equitable labor practices in government contracts.
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