Nez Perce-Clearwater NFs - Newsome Creek Reach 2 Floodplain Restoration

This project is being performed on the Red River Ranger District of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests in collaboration with the Nez Perce Tribe Watershed program. The project's main objective is the removal of floodplain dredge piles. This work will improve floodplain connectivity for anadromous fish and other native species in Newsome Creek. Upon completion of this project this portion of Newsome Creek will have improved basic geomorphic valley bottom and stream channel function through the creation of floodplain. The project will be the fifth contract phase to be completed. The contract requires relocating dredge piles from approximately 5.19 acres of floodplain (approximately 37,000 CY of material). Existing dredge piles and potential soil sources will be excavated and moved to designated repository areas on the project. Vegetation will be transplanted and seed, mulch and slash will be placed on floodplain areas disturbed following construction activities. The contractor will stockpile trees, rock, and other available materials currently on the project area for future restoration work. No in-stream work is required. The 0.3 mile section of Newsome Creek that encompasses the project area, begins at the ending point of similar work completed in 2014. The project is approximately 38 mi east of Grangeville, Idaho. At the junction of Highway 14 and the Newsome Cr Road (FR 1858), travel north for approximately 7.0 miles to the gate on the right. The access route developed in 2011 takes off sharply uphill. To reach the project area, travel approximately 1.8 miles on an unimproved access route beyond this gate. Access route grades range from 0% - 20%. Maximum grade of 20% is maintained for 0.25 miles descending off ridge to valley bottom. The Government's construction estimate is between $250,000 and $500,000. No formal pre-bid tour is planned. The site is currently accessible on foot; motorized access is prohibited. It is anticipated that the solicitation will be issued in early May with implementation planned for the Summer/Fall of 2015 with a contract completion deadline of October 31, 2015. Original bid bonds will be required. The acquisition has been set-aside for small businesses. Solicitation issued on 5/15/15. Solicitation was amended on 5/8/15 to clarify that no straw mulch is required on the project. Response deadline was not extended. Contractors must acknowledge this amendment in writing.