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HomeMy WebLinkAboutEdina Nine Mile Creek 2021 Bid Specs_2021-11-02City of Edina Nine Mile Creek Vegetation Management (2022-2024) Technical Specifications SECTION - WOODY VEGETATION REMOVAL AND CONTROL PART 1. GENERAL 1.1 DESCRIPTION A. This Section includes the selective cutting, herbiciding, and disposal of existing undesirable woody plants, including shrubs and small trees. This work shall occur in designated areas being restored or enhanced to native plant communities as described in the project plans. 1.2 RELATED SECTIONS A. Herbaceous vegetation removal; Seeding. 1.3 QUALITY ASSURANCE A. Qualifications of workers: Provide at least one person who shall be present at all times during execution of this portion of the work, and who shall be thoroughly familiar with this type of work and the type of materials being used. Said person shall be competent at identification of plant materials to be removed and to be preserved during the season work is to be performed. Said person shall also direct all work performed under this Section. B. Standards: All materials used during this portion of the work shall meet or exceed applicable federal, state, county and local laws and regulations. The use of any herbicide shall follow directions given by the manufacturer on the herbicide label. In the case of a discrepancy between these specifications and the herbicide label, the label shall prevail. 1.4 SUBMITTALS Materials: Prior to delivery of any materials to the site, submit to the Owner a complete list of all materials to be used during this portion of the work. Include complete data on source, amount and quality; for herbicides, also include the trade name, the active ingredient, and whether it is approved for use over water. This submittal shall in no way be construed as permitting substitution for specific items described on the plans or in these specifications unless approved in writing by the Owner. Licenses: Prior to any herbicide use the Contractor shall submit to the Owner a current copy of the State of Minnesota commercial pesticide applicator’s license for each person who will be applying regulated herbicide at the project site. A copy of each commercial pesticide applicator’s license must be maintained on site at all times during completion of the work. Equipment: Prior to commencement of any work, submit to the Owner a written description of all wheeled, tracked, and mechanical equipment that will be present in the project area, and describe its intended use during the execution of the work. Description shall include the weight of vehicles. Permits: Prior to the commencement of any prescribed burning, the Contractor shall receive approval from Owner to burn and submit copies of all required open burn permits to the Owner. After the work is complete, submit to the Owner “as-built” plans. As-builts shall: delineate areas where woody species were treated or removed; provide a listing of all species and quantities treated or removed; and identify herbicide type, dilution rate, and quantity used. Any field changes or deviations from the original plans shall be marked clearly on the as-builts. PART 2. PRODUCTS 2.1 MATERIALS A. Herbicide to be used for basal bark or cut stump applications for all woody species shall be Triclopyr (butoxyethyl ester), trade name GarlonTM 4 or equivalent, following the instructions on the herbicide label. Care should be taken when working near open water or saturated soils to prevent herbicide from contacting the water or soil. Any substitutions must be approved in writing by the Owner. B. Herbicide to be used for foliar applications for all woody species shall be Triclopyr (triethylamine salt), trade name GarlonTM 3A or equivalent, following instructions on the herbicide label. Any substitutions must be approved in writing by the Owner. C. A non-toxic, inert, marking dye shall be used in all herbicide applications. PART 3. EXECUTION 3.1 The Contractor shall treat all undesirable woody vegetation within targeted areas using the following methods. Protection of desirable existing vegetation shall be the responsibility of the Contractor during management of undesirable species. The Contractor shall be liable for remedying damage to existing desirable vegetation. 3.2 METHOD – WOODY BRUSH REMOVAL Woody species designated for removal and control vary by reach. Reaches 3, 6, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, and 15 are only being treated for species designated by the State of Minnesota as prohibited noxious weeds to be Eradicated or Controlled. Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12 are being treated for the same species of weeds, as well as an expanded list of invasive and problem weeds (below). Woody species designated for removal and control are listed in Table 1. Table 1. Woody species designated for removal/control SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME DISPOSITION  Acer ginnala Amur maple Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Acer platanoides Norway maple Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Acer negundo Box elder Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12   Ailanthus altissima Tree of heaven Remove in all Reaches  Berberis thunbergii Japanese barberry Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Berberis vulgaris Common barberry Remove in all Reaches  Caragana arborescens Siberian peashrub Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Celastrus orbiculatus Oriental bittersweet Remove in all Reaches  Eleagnus angustifolia Russian olive Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Euonymus alatus Winged euonymus Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Frangula alnus Glossy buckthorn Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Fraxinus pennsylvanica Green ash Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Lonicera japonica Japanese honeysuckle Remove in all Reaches  Lonicera spp. Non-native honeysuckles Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Morus alba White mulberry Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Populus alba White poplar Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Rhamnus cathartica Common buckthorn Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Robinia pseudoacacia Black locust Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Rosa multiflora Multiflora rose Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Ulmus pumila Siberian elm Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Zanthoxylum americanum Prickly ash Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12   Contractor shall cut all woody plant species designated for removal using hand tools including, but not necessarily limited to, gas-powered chainsaws, gas-powered clearing saws, bow saws, and loppers. Forestry mowers and other non-selective cutting methods may be used only if approved by Owner in writing. Removal of undesirable woody plant species shall occur preferably when the ground is frozen. Stumps shall be left in the ground and not removed. All stumps shall be cut flat with no sharp points, within 2 inches of surrounding grade. If snow cover is present, then stumps shall be cut only if snow depth ≤ 16 inches. In this case, stumps shall not exceed 5 inches. If snow depth is greater than 16 inches, stump cutting methods must be approved in writing by Owner. All cut material must be removed from the site by Contractor. Herbicide should be applied to the surface of cut stems immediately after cutting. Herbicide can be applied using a paintbrush, a wick applicator, a low-pressure hand sprayer, or a spray bottle. Herbicide should be applied to the top of the cut stem, the bark on the sides of the cut stem and any exposed root flares. All stumps shall be treated with an approved herbicide mixed with a marking dye. Foliar herbicide is applied to the foliage of the tree/shrub, typically resprouts or seedlings (i.e., young growth). Herbicide can be applied using a wick applicator, low-pressure hand sprayer, or spray bottle. Herbicide treatments shall occur at the frequency and times laid out in the project schedule. Any changes to the schedule must be approved by the Owner in writing. Herbicide application instructions given on the label shall be followed at all times. When herbicides are used, a supply of chemical absorbent shall be maintained at the project site. Any chemical spills shall be properly cleaned up and reported to the Owner within 24 hours. The Contractor shall maintain copies at the project site of all current pesticide applicator’s licenses and the herbicide label and MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for each chemical utilized during completion of the work. Targeted areas are shown on plans or shall be located in the field by the Owner. 3.3 CLEAN-UP, REMOVAL AND REPAIR Clean-Up: The Contractor shall keep the work area free of debris. At no time shall empty herbicide containers, trash, or other material be allowed to accumulate at the project site. All tools shall be kept in appropriate carrying cases, toolboxes, etc. Parking areas, roads, sidewalks, paths and paved areas shall be kept free of mud and dirt. Removal: After work has been completed, remove tools, empty containers, and all other debris generated by the Contractor. Repair: Repair any damages caused by the Contractor during completion of the work described in this Section. Said damages may include, but are not limited to, tire ruts in the ground, damage to lawn areas, damage to trails, etc. In the event any vegetation designated to be preserved is damaged, notify the Owner within 24 hours. The Contractor shall be liable for remedying said damages to plant materials. 3.4 INSPECTION After completion of initial selective woody brush removal, the Contractor shall schedule with the Owner an initial provisional acceptance inspection of the work. After initial provisional acceptance of selective woody brush removal, the Contractor shall conduct a year-end inspection of work areas. Within five business days of the inspection, the Contractor shall notify the Owner by telephone of the results of the inspection, noting any stumps that have re-sprouted, and follow up by submitting to the Owner a written summary of the phone conversation. 3.5 ACCEPTANCE AND GUARANTEE Provisional Acceptance Schedule: Work under this Section shall be provisionally accepted by the Owner after Contractor has competed initial selective woody plant removal per the plans and specifications, completed all clean-up, removal, and repair as described in 3.4 of this Section, and met the following performance standards: Following initial cutting/treating (conducted during Winter 2021-2022): Work under this Section shall be considered 100% complete after woody species have been removed/controlled per the plans, specifications, and project schedule, resulting in removal and treatment of not less than 95% of stems (≤½” diameter, measured at the base) and 100% of stems (≥ ½” diameter, measured at the base) of species designated for removal. Following initial foliar spray (Fall 2022): Work under this Section shall be considered 40% complete after woody species have been treated per the plans, specifications, and project schedule, resulting in not more than 15% vegetative cover by woody species designated for removal (assuming leaf-on conditions) will exist within any 10 square foot area within the treated areas. Following second foliar spray (Fall 2023): Work under this Section shall be considered 80% complete after woody species have been treated per the plans, specifications, and project schedule, resulting in not more than 10% vegetative cover by woody species designated for removal (assuming leaf-on conditions) will exist within any 10 square foot area within the treated areas. Final Acceptance: Following the third foliar spray (Fall 2024), work under this Section shall be considered 100% complete after the Contractor has complied with all provisions of the Guarantee described in 3.5C of this Section. Guarantee: For all areas, the Contractor guarantees not more than 5% vegetative cover by woody species designated for removal (assuming leaf-on conditions) will exist within any 10 square foot area within the treated areas. END OF SECTION SECTION - HERBACEOUS VEGETATION REMOVAL AND CONTROL PART 1. GENERAL 1.1 DESCRIPTION This Section includes the eradication and control of undesirable herbaceous species, including noxious and invasive grasses and forbs. This work shall occur in all areas shown on the project plans. 1.2 RELATED SECTIONS Woody vegetation removal and control; Seeding. 1.3 QUALITY ASSURANCE Qualifications of workers: provide at least one person who shall be present at all times during execution of this portion of the work, and who shall be thoroughly familiar with this type of work and the type of materials being used. Said person shall be competent at identification of plant materials to be removed and to be preserved during the season work is to be performed. Said person shall also direct all work performed under this Section. Standards: all materials used during this portion of the work shall meet or exceed applicable federal, state, county and local laws and regulations. The use of any herbicide shall follow directions given by the manufacturer on the herbicide label. In the case of a discrepancy between these specifications and the herbicide label, the label shall prevail. 1.4 SUBMITTALS Materials: Prior to delivery of any materials to the site, submit to the Owner a complete list of all materials to be used during this portion of the work. Include complete data on source, amount, and quality; for herbicides, also include the trade name, the active ingredient, and whether it is approved for use over water and saturated soils. This submittal shall in no way be construed as permitting substitution for specific items described on the plans or in these specifications unless approved in writing by the Owner. Licenses: Prior to any herbicide use the Contractor shall submit to the Owner a current copy of the State of Minnesota commercial pesticide applicator’s license, with certification in the appropriate categories, for each person who will be applying herbicide at the project site. A copy of each commercial pesticide applicator’s license must be maintained on site at all times during completion of the work. Equipment: Prior to commencement of any work, submit to the Owner a written description of all wheeled, tracked, and mechanical equipment that will be present in the project area, and describe its intended use during the execution of the work. Description shall include the weight of vehicles. Permits: Prior to the commencement of any prescribed burning, the Contractor shall receive approval from Owner to burn and submit copies of all required open burn permits to the Owner. After the work is complete, submit to the Owner “as-built” plans. As-builts shall: delineate areas where herbaceous species were treated or removed; provide a listing of all species and quantities treated or removed; and identify herbicide type, dilution rate, and quantity used. Any field changes or deviations from the original plans shall be marked clearly on the as-builts. PART 2. PRODUCTS 2.1 MATERIALS Herbaceous species to be removed in areas without standing water or saturated soils shall be treated with Glyphosate, Triclopyr, Aminopyralid, or Clopyralid, as deemed appropriate by the Contractor, following the instructions on the herbicide label. Any substitutions must be approved in writing by Owner. Herbaceous species to be removed in areas with standing water or saturated soils shall be treated with Glyphosate in a form approved for aquatic applications, such as Rodeo or equivalent, following the instructions on the herbicide label. Any substitutions must be approved in writing by Owner. Selective grass herbicides and other specialty herbicides may also be used in appropriate locations with written approval by Owner. PART 3. EXECUTION 3.1 The Contractor shall manage all undesirable herbaceous vegetation within targeted areas at the frequency and times laid out in the project schedule using one or a combination of the following methods. Protection of desirable existing vegetation shall be the responsibility of the Contractor during management of undesirable species. The Contractor shall be liable for remedying damage to existing desirable vegetation. 3.2 METHOD – HERBICIDE APPLICATION Herbaceous species designated for removal and control vary by reach. Reaches 3, 6, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, and 15 are only being treated for species designated by the State of Minnesota as prohibited noxious weeds to be Eradicated or Controlled. Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12 are being treated for the same species of weeds, as well as an expanded list of invasive and problem weeds (below). Herbaceous species designated for removal and control are listed in Table 2. Table 2. Herbaceous species designated for removal/control SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME DISPOSITION  Alliaria petiolata Garlic mustard Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Amaranthus palmeri Palmer amaranth Remove in all Reaches  Arctium minus Common burdock Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Bromus inermis Smooth brome grass Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Cardamine impatiens Narrowleaf bittercress Remove in all Reaches  Carduus acanthoides Plumeless thistle Remove in all Reaches  Centaurea spp. Knapweeds Remove in all Reaches  Cirsium arvense Canada thistle Remove in all Reaches   Cirsium vulgare Bull thistle Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Conium maculatum Poison hemlock Remove in all Reaches  Cynanchum louiseae Black swallow-wort Remove in all Reaches  Dactylia glomerata Orchard grass Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Daucus carota Queen Anne’s lace Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Digitalis lanata Grecian foxglove Remove in all Reaches  Digitaria sanguinalis Crabgrass Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Dipsacus fullonum Common teasel Remove in all Reaches  Dipsacus laciniatus Cutleaf teasel Remove in all Reaches  Echinochloa crus-galli Barnyard grass Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Elymus repens Quack grass Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Euphorbia esula Leafy spurge Remove in all Reaches  Glechoma hederacea Creeping Charlie Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Hemerocallis spp. Ornamental lilies Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Heracleum mantegazzianum Giant hogweed Remove in all Reaches  Hesperis matronalis Dame’s rocket Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Humulus japonicus Japanese hops Remove in all Reaches  Iris pseudacorus Yellow iris Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Linaria dalmatica Dalmatian toadflax Remove in all Reaches  Lotus corniculatus Birdsfoot trefoil Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Lythrum salicaria, L. virgatum Purple loosestrife Remove in all Reaches  Medicago sativa Alfalfa Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Melilotus alba White sweet clover Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Melilotus officinalis Yellow sweet clover Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Miscanthus spp. Silver grasses Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Pastinaca sativa Wild parsnip Remove in all Reaches  Phalaris arundinacea Reed canary grass Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Phleum pretense Timothy Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Phragmites australis Giant reed grass Remove in all Reaches  Plantago major Common plantain Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Poa pratensis Kentucky bluegrass Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Polygonum x bohemicum Bohemian knotweed Remove in all Reaches  Polygonum cuspidatum Japanese knotweed Remove in all Reaches  Polygonum sachalinese Giant knotweed Remove in all Reaches  Rumex crispus Curly dock Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Securigera varia Crown vetch Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Setaria spp. Foxtail grasses Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Solanum dulcamara Bittersweet nightshade Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Sonchus arvensis Field sowthistle Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Tanacetum vulgare Common tansy Remove in all Reaches  Taraxacum officinale Dandelion Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Torilis japonica Japanese hedge parsley Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Trifolium pratense Red clover Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Trifolium repens White clover Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12   Typha angustifolia Narrow-leaf cattail Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Typha x glauca Hybrid cattail Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12  Verbascum thapsus Mullein Remove in Reaches 1, 2, 4, 5, 11, and 12   Herbicide treatments, when employed by the Contractor for management of species designated for removal (below), shall occur at the frequency and times laid out in the project schedule. Any changes to the schedule must be approved by the Owner in writing. Herbicide application instructions given on the label shall be followed at all times. A supply of chemical absorbent shall be maintained at the project site. Any chemical spills shall be properly cleaned up and reported to the Owner within 24 hours. The Contractor shall maintain copies at the project site of all current pesticide applicator’s licenses and the herbicide label and MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for each chemical utilized during completion of the work. Herbicide may be applied using a backpack sprayer, a hand-held wick applicator, or a vehicle mounted low-pressure spray unit. Any other method must be approved in writing by the Owner. Targeted areas are shown on plans or shall be located in the field by the Owner. 3.3 METHOD - TURF ERADICATION This project does not include any conversion of turf areas to native plantings. Any area within the project boundary that is planted with turf grasses and maintained by the City of Edina as mowed turf at the start of the project shall be left in place. Areas comprised of native or partially native species at the start of the project shall be managed to control encroaching turf grasses listed on the table above. 3.4 METHOD - MOWING Contractor shall only use mowing equipment approved by Owner. For management purposes, vegetation in native plant communities should typically be mowed to a height of 8-12” and before non-native, invasive species go to seed. Mowing, when employed by the Contractor for management of species designated for removal (above), shall occur at the frequency and times laid out in the project schedule. Any changes to the schedule must be approved by the Owner in writing. 3.5 METHOD – PRESCRIBED BURNING Prescribed burning must be used to comply with the management schedule and also may be used to prepare the site for seeding and/or achieve performance standards. Prior to the commencement of prescribed burning, the Contractor shall confirm permission from the Owner and compile a burn plan that outlines a plan of action, identifies contingencies including smoke management and traffic control, and lists the names and phone numbers of emergency agencies (fire department, police department, etc.). Proper notice of intent to burn shall be given to Owner. Burning may not commence until the Owner has notified surrounding landowners and permitting and emergencies agencies, or directed the Contractor to notify same, and the Contractor has done so. The Contractor shall apply for and receive all required permits prior to the commencement of prescribed burning. Prescribed burning shall occur at the frequency and times laid out in the project schedule. Any changes to the schedule must be approved by the Owner in writing. Burning should be done according to the burn plan and weather conditions in order to prevent smoke from affecting neighbors or traffic on nearby roads. 3.6 CLEAN-UP, REMOVAL AND REPAIR Clean up: The Contractor shall keep the work area free of debris. At no time shall empty herbicide containers, trash, or other material be allowed to accumulate at the project site. All tools shall be kept in appropriate carrying cases, toolboxes, etc. Parking areas, roads, sidewalks, paths and paved areas shall be kept free of mud and dirt. Removal: After work has been completed remove tools, empty containers, and all other debris generated by the Contractor Repair: Repair any damages caused by the Contractor during completion of the work described in this Section. Said damages may include, but are not limited to, tire ruts in the ground, damage to retained lawn areas, damage to trails, etc. In the event any vegetation outside of targeted areas is damaged, notify the Owner within 24 hours. The Contractor shall be liable for remedying damages to plant materials outside targeted areas. 3.7 INSPECTION After completion of herbaceous species removal, the Contractor shall schedule with the Owner a provisional acceptance inspection of the work during the growing season. 3.8 ACCEPTANCE AND GUARANTEE Provisional Acceptance Schedule: Work under this Section shall be provisionally accepted by the Owner after Contractor has completed initial herbaceous species removal per the plans and specifications, completed all clean up, removal, and repair as described in 3.6 of this Section, and met the following performance standards: Year 1 (2022): Work under this Section shall be considered 40% complete after herbaceous species have been removed/controlled per the plans, specifications, and project schedule, resulting in not more than 10% vegetative cover of species designated for removal. In the Lowland Non-Native Grassland, reed canary grass vegetative cover shall be not more than 20%. Year 2 (2023): Work under this Section shall be considered 80% complete after herbaceous species have continued to be removed/controlled per the plans, specifications, and project schedule, resulting in not more than 5% vegetative cover of species designated for removal. In the Lowland Non-Native Grassland, reed canary grass vegetative cover shall be not more than 15%. Final acceptance: At the end of Year 3 (2024), work under this Section shall be considered 100% complete after the Contractor has complied with all provisions of the Guarantee described in 3.8C. of this Section. Guarantee: The Contractor guarantees not more than 5% vegetative cover of species designated for removal will exist within any 10 square foot area within the treated areas. In the Lowland Non-Native Grassland, reed canary grass vegetative cover shall be not more than 10%. END OF SECTION SECTION - SEEDING PART 1. GENERAL 1.1 DESCRIPTION A. This Section includes installation of native and cover crop plant seed in areas being restored or enhanced to native plant communities as shown on the project plans. Project seeding will include both “overseeding” into existing vegetation and new seeding into areas cleared of invasive vegetation. 1.2 RELATED SECTIONS Woody vegetation removal and control; Herbaceous vegetation removal and control. 1.3 QUALITY ASSURANCE A. Qualifications of workers: provide at least one person who shall be present at all times during execution of this portion of the work, and who shall be thoroughly familiar with the type and operation of equipment being used. Said person shall direct all work performed under this Section. B. Standards: all materials used during this portion of the work shall meet or exceed applicable federal, state, county and local laws and regulations. All seed shall be free from insects and disease. Species shall be true to their scientific name as specified. 1.4 SUBMITTALS A. Materials: Prior to delivery of any materials to the site, submit to the Owner a complete list of all seed to be used during this portion of the work. Include complete seed tag data for each seeded species including source, source origin (county and state), quantity, and quality. This submittal shall in no way be construed as permitting substitution for specific items described on the plans or in these specifications unless approved in writing by the Owner. B. Equipment: Prior to commencement of any work, submit to the Owner a written description of all wheeled, tracked, and mechanical equipment that will be present in the construction area and describe its intended use during the execution of the work. Description shall include the weight of vehicles. C. Seeding Plans: Prior to commencement of any seeding, submit to the Owner maps (or marked-up plans) indicating all areas that will be seeded or overseeded. Areas being overseeded should be evaluated to determine whether seed should be spread uniformly or concentrated in areas of poor native cover. Submittal must be reviewed and approved prior to the installation of any native seed. D. After the work is complete, submit to the Owner “as-built” plans. As-builts shall: delineate areas where seeding was conducted, and for each area specify the seed mixes used and quantities installed. Any field changes or deviations from the original plans shall be marked clearly on the as-builts. PART 2. PRODUCTS 2.1 NATIVE SEED: Seed of native graminoid and forb species shall meet either “wild type” or “yellow tag” as defined: MCIA Yellow Tag Certified Seed – Native species shall have their origin documented by the Minnesota Crop Improvement Association (MCIA). The level of certification is at the “Yellow Tag” level according to the MCIA Quality Control Program. In the event that certain species may not be available as certified, those species may be supplied by a MCIA Certified Approved Collector/Producer along with documentation demonstrating the origin of those materials. Genetic origin of all native seed shall be from within a 200-mile radius of the project site and native to Minnesota. Species shall be true to their scientific name as specified. Every attempt shall be made to fulfill seeding specifications as written. In the event some species are not available at the time of seeding, other appropriate native species may be added and/or substituted with approval in writing from the Owner. Seeds shall have proper stratification and/or scarification to break seed dormancy prior to planting, if planted in spring. All legumes shall be inoculated with proper rhizobia at the appropriate time prior to planting. The remainder of this page intentionally left blank. 2.2 SEED MIXES A. The following seed mixes shall be used per the project plans and specifications. Lowland Forest-Woodland Mix – to seed Lowland Forest-Woodland after approved site preparation (FULL SEEDING RATE) Botanical Name Common Name Oz/Acre Lbs/Acre % by Weight Seeds/Sq Ft  Bromus pubescens Hairy woodland brome 2.90 0.18 2.1 0.5  Carex sprengelii Sprengel's sedge 2.00 0.13 1.5 0.5  Elymus canadensis Canada wild rye 40.00 2.50 29.4 4.8  Elymus hystrix Bottlebrush grass 4.00 0.25 2.9 0.7  Elymus villosus Silky wild rye 8.00 0.50 5.9 1.0  Elymus virginicus Virginia wild rye 56.00 3.50 41.2 5.4  Festuca subverticillata Nodding fescue 1.00 0.06 0.7 0.5  Juncus tenuis Path rush 0.10 0.01 0.1 2.3  Leersia oryzoides Rice cut grass 4.00 0.25 2.9 3.1  Poa palustris Fowl bluegrass 2.00 0.13 1.5 6.0  Total Graminoids 120.00 7.50 88.2 24.7  Ageratina altissima White snakeroot 0.25 0.02 0.2 0.9  Aquilegia canadensis Wild columbine 1.00 0.06 0.7 0.9  Campanulastrum americanum American bellflower 0.25 0.02 0.2 1.0  Cryptotaenia canadensis Honewort 2.00 0.13 1.5 1.1  Eupatorium perfoliatum Common boneset 0.50 0.03 0.4 1.8  Mentha arvensis Wild mint 0.25 0.02 0.2 1.7  Rudbeckia laciniata Goldenglow 3.00 0.19 2.2 1.0  Solidago flexicaulis Zig-zag goldenrod 0.50 0.03 0.4 1.0  Symphyotrichum cordifolium Heart leaved aster 0.50 0.03 0.4 1.6  Teucrium canadense Wood germander 1.75 0.11 1.3 0.8  Thalictrum dasycarpum Tall meadow rue 2.00 0.13 1.5 0.5  Zizia aurea Golden alexanders 4.00 0.25 2.9 1.0  Total Forbs 16.00 1.00 11.8 13.3  Total 136.00 8.50   38.0   Lowland Prairie Mix – to seed Lowland Non-Native Grassland after approved site preparation (FULL SEEDING RATE) and to overseed Lowland Prairie (1/2 SEEDING RATE): MN State Seed Mix 34-262 (Wet Prairie) Common Name Scientific Name Rate (lb/ac) % of Mix (% by wt) Seeds/ sq ft  big bluestem Andropogon gerardii 1.00 6.89% 3.67  fringed brome Bromus ciliatus 1.50 10.38% 6.08  bluejoint Calamagrostis canadensis 0.04 0.27% 4.00  Virginia wild rye Elymus virginicus 1.75 12.07% 2.70  tall manna grass Glyceria grandis 0.15 1.02% 3.80  fowl manna grass Glyceria striata 0.11 0.73% 3.50  switchgrass Panicum virgatum 0.75 5.16% 3.85  fowl bluegrass Poa palustris 0.20 1.39% 9.60  Indian grass Sorghastrum nutans 0.50 3.44% 2.20  prairie cordgrass Spartina pectinata 0.50 3.41% 1.20    Total Grasses 6.50 44.76% 40.60  wooly sedge Carex pellita 0.05 0.32% 0.47  tussock sedge Carex stricta 0.02 0.17% 0.48  fox sedge Carex vulpinoidea 0.10 0.66% 3.50  dark green bulrush Scirpus atrovirens 0.10 0.72% 17.74  woolgrass Scirpus cyperinus 0.03 0.18% 16.00    Total Sedges and Rushes 0.30 2.05% 38.19  Canada anemone Anemone canadensis 0.03 0.21% 0.09  marsh milkweed Asclepias incarnata 0.08 0.55% 0.14  Canada tick trefoil Desmodium canadense 0.50 3.41% 1.00  flat-topped aster Doellingeria umbellata 0.05 0.34% 1.20  common boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum 0.03 0.23% 2.00  grass-leaved goldenrod Euthamia graminifolia 0.02 0.11% 2.00  spotted Joe pye weed Eutrochium maculatum 0.04 0.30% 1.50  autumn sneezeweed Helenium autumnale 0.05 0.35% 2.39  sawtooth sunflower Helianthus grosseserratus 0.05 0.38% 0.30  great blazing star Liatris pycnostachya 0.02 0.17% 0.10  great lobelia Lobelia siphilitica 0.01 0.05% 1.40  blue monkey flower Mimulus ringens 0.01 0.05% 6.40  Virginia mountain mint Pycnanthemum virginianum 0.08 0.55% 6.50  red-stemmed aster Symphyotrichum puniceum 0.08 0.56% 2.40  blue vervain Verbena hastata 0.15 1.06% 5.25  bunched ironweed Vernonia fasciculata 0.03 0.23% 0.30  Culver's root Veronicastrum virginicum 0.02 0.14% 6.00  golden alexanders Zizia aurea 0.25 1.76% 1.03    Total Forbs 1.50 10.45% 40.00  Oats* Avena sativa 6.20 42.74% 2.76    Total Cover Crop 6.20 42.74% 2.76    Totals: 14.50 100.00% 121.55  Purpose: Wet prairie reconstruction for wetland mitigation or ecological restoration.  Planting Area: Tallgrass Aspen Parklands, Prairie Parkland, and Eastern Broadleaf Forest Provinces. Mn/DOT Districts 2(west), 3B, 4, Metro, 6, 7 & 8.  *Do not add cover crop when mix is used for overseeding (see Section 2.3). 2.3 COVER CROP A. Depending on the time of year for seed installation, the cover crop shall be either oats (Avena sativa, used April 1-June 30), winter wheat (Triticum aestivum, used November 1-March 31), or a combination of the two. Cover crop shall be added to the Lowland Forest Mix for all sites and the Lowland Prairie Mix when used for seeding Lowland Non-Native Grassland areas. When the Lowland Prairie Mix is used for overseeding Lowland Prairie areas, no cover crop shall be added. 2.4 STRAW MULCH A. Dry cereal straw (oats, barley, wheat, or rye). Must meet the requirements of the Minnesota Crop Improvement Association (MCIA) to be noxious weed free, per MnDOT 3882.1. B. Prairie hay. Must meet the requirements of the Minnesota Crop Improvement Association (MCIA) to be noxious weed free, per MnDOT 3882.1. C. Do not use other hay (e.g., brome grass, timothy, orchard grass, alfalfa, clover, or “marsh hay” including species such as reed canary grass or cattails). PART 3. EXECUTION 3.1 METHOD Native seeding shall occur in restoration/enhancement zones designated on plans at the times laid out in the project schedule. In the Lowland Non-Native Grassland areas, native seeding shall occur after herbaceous vegetation removal is completed by Contractor and approved by Owner. Seeding shall be conducted as a late fall dormant seeding (after November 1) or in early spring (as soon as the soil is free of frost and in a workable condition but no later than June 30). If area to be seeded was treated with herbicide, the Contractor shall follow all recommendations from the manufacturer on the herbicide label regarding the length of time to wait before installing native plant material. Seeds shall have proper stratification and/or scarification to break seed dormancy when planting in spring. All legumes shall be inoculated with proper rhizobia at the appropriate time prior to planting. Following approved site preparation, newly restored areas (e.g., Non-Native areas on the project plans) shall be seeded at a consistent rate across the entire area (see Section 2.2 for seeding rates). Previously restored areas (i.e., areas that are to be overseeded) shall have seeding focused where existing native cover is lower. Maps of planned seeding areas must be submitted to the Owner for review and approval prior to seeding (see Section 1.4). Thoroughly mix all seed by hand or machine before sowing. Graminoid seed shall be preferentially installed with a rangeland type grain drill or no-till planter, such as by Truax, or equivalent as approved in writing by the Owner. Forb seed can be installed by a rangeland type grain drill or no-till planter; however, if this equipment is used, it shall be modified to effectively drop small, flowable seed on the ground surface. If soil is too wet or areas too small or steep to install seed using a rangeland type grain drill or no-till planter, a mechanical broadcast seeder, such as by Cyclone, shall be used. Hand broadcasting of seed may also be employed. Seed that is to be broadcast-sown shall be divided into two equal parts. The entire area shall be sown with first half before spreading second half, perpendicular to the first half where possible. Soil tilling, discing, or other disturbance shall not occur on the site unless specified; however, Contractor is responsible for ensuring good seed-to-soil contact regardless of seeding method used. 3.2 REMEDIAL SEEDING AND PLANTING In order to achieve the performance standards defined in these specifications, additional seeding of native vegetation may be required. Seed mix, method of installation, and location of remedial seeding shall be approved by the Owner prior to installation. 3.3 CLEAN-UP, REMOVAL AND REPAIR Clean up: The Contractor shall keep the work area free of debris. After seed installation is complete, clean up any remaining materials, debris, trash, etc. Avoid driving over seeded areas to minimize disturbance. Removal: After work has been completed remove any tools, equipment, empty containers, and all other debris generated by the Contractor Repair: Repair any damages caused by the Contractor during completion of the work described in this Section. 3.4 INSPECTION A. After completion of seeding, the Contractor shall schedule with Owner a provisional acceptance inspection of the work. 3.5 ACCEPTANCE AND GUARANTEE Provisional acceptance: Work under this Section shall be considered 80% complete after Contractor has completed all seeding per the plans and specifications, and completed all clean up, removal, and repair as described in 3.3 of this Section. Work under this Section shall be considered 90% complete after Contractor meets the following performance standards: The Contractor shall guarantee newly seeded areas will meet or exceed the following performance criteria one full growing season after installation and provisional acceptance: ≥70% total plant cover (including cover crop), seedlings of ≥3 planted grass/sedge species present and widely dispersed, and seedlings of ≥3 planted forb species present and widely dispersed. The Contractor shall guarantee overseeded areas will meet or exceed the following performance criteria one full growing season after installation and provisional acceptance: ≥90% total plant cover, seedlings of ≥3 planted grass/sedge species present and widely dispersed, and seedlings of ≥3 planted forb species present and widely dispersed. Final acceptance: At the end of Year 3 (2024), work under this Section shall be considered 100% complete after the Contractor has complied with all provisions of the Guarantee described in 3.5E. of this Section. Guarantee: The Contractor guarantees all new seeding and overseeding areas meet or exceed the following performance criteria: ≥90% total plant cover, seedlings of ≥5 planted grass/sedge species present and widely dispersed, and seedlings of ≥6 planted forb species present and widely dispersed. END OF SECTION Appendix A. Practices to Avoid Introducing & Moving Invasive Species (MN Dept. of Nat. Resources) It is the MNDNR’s policy to limit the introduction of invasive species onto MNDNR managed lands and waters, limit their rate of geographical spread, and reduce their impact on high value resources. The movement of equipment, organisms, and organic and inorganic material are potential pathways for the introduction or spread of invasive species. Each of these pathways should be considered and addressed to reduce risk associated with invasive species movement. General Procedures for Intentional Movement of Equipment Before arriving at a work site, inspect for and remove all visible plants, seeds, mud, soil, and animals from equipment. Before leaving a work site, inspect for and remove all visible plants, seeds, mud, soil and animals from equipment. After working on infested waters or waters known to harbor pathogens of concern, clean and dry equipment prior to using in locations not known to be infested with species or pathogens present at the last location visited. Specific Procedures: Vehicles and Heavy Equipment When possible maintain separate equipment to use on uninfested sites. If working on multiple sites, work in uninfested sites before infested sites and clean equipment after use. When working within a site with invasive species work in uninfested areas before infested areas and clean equipment after use. Avoid entering site under wet conditions to minimize rutting and other soil disturbances. Minimize area of soil disturbance with equipment. Minimize number of access points to site. When creating roads and trails minimize area of vegetation and soil disturbance. Survey site before management treatment and treat or avoid moving equipment through existing patches of invasive species. Conduct post management treatment monitoring and treat any responding invasive species. Inspect all gear and remove vegetation, soil, and organisms prior to arriving and leaving site. On sites that are known to be infested with species such as garlic mustard, spotted knapweed, leafy spurge, etc. (species with small seed that can collect on cloth material) wash clothing after work is complete. Carry boot brush in or on all vehicles and clean boots and clothing (in a controlled area) when leaving any site. Use brush to clean gear and equipment such as chainsaws to remove loose soil and plant materials. Avoid parking in patches of invasive species. When unavoidable, clean vehicle of all visible evidence of soil and vegetation when leaving site. Brush off (hand remove) plants, seeds, mud, soil and animals from vehicles, including wheel wells, tracks, hums, blades, grills, etc. Power spray equipment after hand removal, if necessary, to remove aquatic plant remnants (particularly curly-leaf pondweed, Eurasian watermilfoil, flowering rush, and purple loosestrife) and earthworms. General Procedures for Intentional Movement of Organisms, Organic and Inorganic Material (including water, fish, plants, mulch, soil, gravel, rock) Do not plant or introduce prohibited or regulated invasive species or other listed invasive species. Do not transport water from infested waters, except by permit. When you must use water from an infested waters, do not drain this water or water that has come in contact with organisms from the infested waters, where it can run into another basin, river, or drain system that does not go to a treatment facility. Use only mulch, soil, gravel, etc. that is invasive species-free or has a very low likelihood of having invasive species. Do not transplant organisms or plant material from any waters with known populations of invasive aquatic invertebrates Do not move soil, dredge material, or raw wood projects that may harbor invasive species from infested sites. Specific Procedures: Re-vegetation (Aquatic and Terrestrial Plants) Do not plant or introduce prohibited or regulated invasive species or other listed invasive species. Inspect transplanted vegetation for signs of invasive species that may be attached to the vegetation and remove (i.e., other plant material and animals, etc.) Re-vegetate with native species. Preserve existing native vegetation. Peel topsoil that contains natives away from the work zone, stockpile and then replace it at the end of construction. This can help re-establish native species quickly. If stockpiled invasive free topsoil isn’t adequate for post-construction landscaping, and black dirt, sand or gravel must be purchased, purchase invasive species (i.e., worm) free material. Purchase certified weed-free mulch. Inspect outside of storage containers and materials for visible presence of invasive species. If possible, use seeding material, plants, fill, straw, gravel, and mulch that are certified as uninfested. Monitor areas where materials are added for evidence of invasive species germination. When possible minimize the use of outside materials. Procedures to Minimize the Risk of Increasing the Dominance of Invasive Species on Site Survey site before burning and treat or avoid moving through patches of invasive species before burn is conducted. Avoid entering site under wet conditions to minimize rutting and other soil disturbances. Conduct post-treatment monitoring and treat any invasive species (such as resprouts and germination). Site Planning and Management Construction activities that disturb the soil surface can expose dormant invasive species seed banks and create a growth medium that favors invasive plants. Landscaping can also introduce invasive plant species, as can maintenance activities such as mowing, grading, and stormwater pond maintenance. Exercise site-level management to minimize the introduction, spread, and impact of invasive species. Site-level management shall include planning, implementation and evaluation procedures that reduce the risk of introduction, spread, and impact of invasive species. Procedures include identification of invasive species, monitoring for invasive species, developing strategies and actions to minimize spread and impact, implementing management actions, and evaluating success. References Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Operational Order #113, Invasive Species, May 31, 2007. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Invasive Species Operational Handbook, May 31, 2007. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Standard Protocols for Invasive Species Prevention on Terrestrial Sites (Draft).