USDA FS - Ottawa NF - Big Iron Botany Survey
ID: 12444624Q0099Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

AGRICULTURE, DEPARTMENT OFFOREST SERVICEUSDA-FS, CSA EAST 7Atlanta, GA, 303092449, USA

NAICS

Environmental Consulting Services (541620)

PSC

SPECIAL STUDIES/ANALYSIS- ENDANGERED SPECIES: PLANT/ANIMAL (B509)

Set Aside

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

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/686c3ed10f8d4a21b0f84d1266071b8a/view
Timeline
    Description

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service is seeking proposals for the Big Iron Botany Survey within the Ottawa National Forest in Michigan. The primary objective of this contract is to conduct comprehensive botanical surveys across 465 designated stands, covering a total of 21,048 acres, to identify Regional Forester’s Sensitive plants, State of Michigan listed plants, invasive species, and culturally significant plants. This initiative is crucial for ecological assessment and conservation efforts, reflecting the government's commitment to effective forest management and biodiversity preservation. Proposals are due by September 23, 2024, and interested contractors should contact Fay Chiappone at fay.chiappone@usda.gov for further details.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Fay Chiappone
    fay.chiappone@usda.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    12444624Q0099 - 1449.pdf
    The Ottawa National Forest is seeking proposals for botany surveys focused on rare plants, including invasive species and culturally significant plants. This Request for Proposal (RFP) is designated under solicitation number 12444624Q0099, with the performance period extending from the date of the award to September 15, 2026. The acquisition is set to be administered by the USDA Forest Service and targets small businesses, particularly those owned by service-disabled veterans, women, or located in HUBZone areas. The document outlines the requirements for submission, including a complete response to designated blocks, invoicing instructions, and the terms of contract adherence per the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). Additionally, it notes that bids are due by September 13, 2024, and emphasizes the importance of thorough surveys to ensure ecological conservation and compliance with relevant regulations. The proposal process reflects the federal commitment to environmental stewardship and collaboration with small business sectors in executing conservation efforts.
    12444624Q0099 - OTTAWA - BIG IRON BOTANY SURVEY - RFQ .pdf
    The USDA Forest Service is requesting proposals for the Big Iron Botany Survey, focusing on the identification of rare plants in 465 stands across 21,048 acres in the Ottawa National Forest, Michigan. This project is set for 2025-2026 and aims to conduct at least two surveys of select stands to assess the presence of sensitive plants, invasive species, and culturally significant plants. The survey methodology will follow the Ottawa National Forest Botany Program Protocol, with specific timelines for survey completion between May 20 and September 15. Contractors must be registered in the System for Award Management and submit separate technical and price proposals, including past performance records and technical capabilities. Evaluation criteria prioritize experience, technical capability, and pricing, with weight given to historical performance in botany surveys. The contract period encompasses pre-work setup and site inspections, necessitating effective communication with the government contact. This project aligns with federal objectives to preserve biodiversity while ensuring compliance with environmental standards. Proposals are due by September 23, 2024, to the designated USDA email contact.
    ATTACHMENT A - BIG IRON - SOW - UPDATED.pdf
    The Big Iron Botany Field Surveys project aims to survey areas of the Ottawa National Forest to identify Regional Forester’s Sensitive plants, State of Michigan listed plants, and priority non-native invasive plants, among others. The contract mandates surveying a total of 465 stands, covering 21,048 acres, with at least 40% to be surveyed twice to comprehensively assess plant populations. Surveys are to take place from May 10 to September 15 in either 2025 or 2026 and must be completed by September 15, 2026. Contractors are required to conduct pre-field reviews, identify rare plant habitats, collect substantial field data using GPS technology, and document findings. Detailed records and reporting formats are specified for varying plant types and survey conditions, including the collection of digital photographs and voucher specimens. Key deliverables include survey plans, stand tracking spreadsheets, and special plant forms to ensure meticulous documentation and compliance with field standards. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to conservation within federal lands while guiding vegetation management strategies in the Ottawa National Forest. By utilizing rigorous survey methodologies and data management practices, the project aims to enhance the understanding of plant biodiversity and manage invasive species in the region effectively.
    ATTACHMENT B - BIG IRON - ALL MAPS.pdf
    This document outlines the Big Iron Botany Survey project within the Ottawa National Forest, focusing on the location of survey compartments and stands, as highlighted in multiple GIS maps compiled by Ian Shackleford. The maps provide a detailed view of various marked stands, including roads, trails, rivers, and compartments specific to the survey area. The objective of the survey is to conduct botanical assessments within designated areas of national forest land. Critical details include delineating the boundaries of the compartments, the specific stands tagged for botanical survey attention, and reminders about the careful use of GIS data for intended purposes only. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to forest management through scientific surveys, which are essential for ecological assessment and decision-making processes related to resource stewardship and conservation.
    ATTACHMENT C - BIG IRON - BOTANY BUNDLE FORMS.pdf
    The 2024 List of Rare Plants for the Ottawa National Forest documents sensitive plant species and potential viability concerns within the region. The file categorizes these species by taxon and highlights their conservation status, with classifications such as "Endangered," "Threatened," or "Watch." The list features a total of 160 species, with 91 labeled as Regional Forester Sensitive Species (RFSS) or state-listed. Each entry includes scientific names, common names, and additional notes regarding their records or observations. In addition, the document outlines the priority list for invasive plant species, identifying high and medium-priority invaders for management action. It catalogues specific invasive species, detailing those that are new invaders and emphasizing a structured reporting system for contractors. The protocols established emphasize the importance of documenting rare species and invasive plant locations through field surveys and GPS tracking, aiding in maintaining ecological balance and protecting biodiversity in the Ottawa National Forest. This comprehensive approach reflects government efforts to encourage conservation, restoration, and responsible land management.
    ATTACHMENT D - BIG IRON - MI SPECIAL PLANT FORM.pdf
    The document provides guidance on federal government RFPs (Requests for Proposals) and grants, emphasizing the importance of understanding the funding process at both federal and state/local levels. It outlines the objectives behind issuing RFPs, such as soliciting proposals to address specific needs or projects within the community. The document highlights key components of RFPs, including eligibility criteria, proposal submission processes, evaluation methods, and timelines. It stresses the importance of clear communication and compliance with regulatory requirements to ensure a fair selection process. Furthermore, the document details procedures for securing federal grants, including necessary documentation, funding availability, and application deadlines. Overall, it serves as a comprehensive resource for stakeholders involved in seeking government funding and responding to RFPs, ultimately aiming to facilitate effective collaboration between government entities and applicants.
    ATTACHMENT E - BIG IRON - WD MI 2015-4871 7-22-2024.pdf
    The document outlines Wage Determination No. 2015-4871 by the U.S. Department of Labor for contracts subject to the Service Contract Act, specifying minimum wage rates and conditions for various occupations in specific Michigan counties. It introduces the applicability of Executive Orders 14026 and 13658, mandating minimum wage requirements of $17.20 and $12.90 per hour, respectively, depending on the contract's starting date and renewal. Additionally, it details various occupations, their corresponding wage rates, and fringe benefits such as health and welfare payments amounting to $5.36 per hour, vacation, and paid holidays. Employees in unlisted positions require a conformance process for wage determination, emphasizing compliance with federal contract regulations such as paid sick leave under EO 13706. The comprehensive occupational listing aims to ensure fair pay and worker protections, signifying the federal government's effort in standardized wage practices across contractor engagements in Michigan. This summary of a wage determination serves as a vital resource for contractors and governmental bodies participating in federal contracts, highlighting regulatory adherence to worker compensation standards.
    Lifecycle
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    USDA FS - Ottawa NF - Big Iron Botany Survey
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    Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
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