This project requires climbing designated trees and picking cones with ripe seeds from those trees in compliance with the terms, specifications, and provisions incorporated herein.  For specifically designated western larch, in addition to climbing trees, some of these trees may require topping at six (6) inches or smaller and collecting the cones from the cut tree tops on the ground.  The Contractor shall furnish all labor, equipment, supervision, transportation, operating supplies and incidentals to do the job.

Seed orchard trees range in height from 15 feet to 50 feet.  Some may only require a step ladder to pick and other will require climbing and picking.  Extension ladders may also be effective.  The use of a man lift may be the most effective way to collect Wester Larch Seed Orchard trees.  Western Larch orchard trees are too small to be climbed and many are too tall for a ladder.

Location and Description

Cone collection sites are located on the Colville National Forest.  Cone collection sites vary from less than a mile apart to many miles apart at predetermined locations on each Ranger District.

Prior to start of work, the Government will furnish Contractor(s) with Project Area Map(s) showing specific locations of trees.

Access

The majority of trees selected for cone collection are within 300 feet of a forest road, accessible by a standard pickup.  The Forest Service assumes no obligation to plow snow or do special maintenance to keep roads open.  Some trees may be located behind recently closed or obstructed roads.  Additional road closures may occur during the course of the season. Contractor should expect some walk-ins up to ¼ mile.

The desired start of work is 10 days after contract award.  Solicitation closes on 07 March 2022 by 2:00 PM Pacific Time.  This is a one-year contract.

Technical point of contact for this project is Willian Bedient at (509) 690-4084 or e-mail

[email protected]

POC

Jorge Somoza, Contract Specialist, Phone (425) 783-6053, fax (425) 783-0129. Email [email protected]