CITY OF SANDPOINT AGENDA REPORT

DATE: 7/12/16

TO: MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL

FROM: Jared Yost

SUBJECT: Selection of company to perform aquatic weed management.

DESCRIPTION/BACKGROUND:

The City of Sandpoint requested proposals to control/eradicate Aquatic in Windbag Marina, City Beach and Memorial launch. City Council requires that the treatment methods applied are non-herbicide based. Aquatic Eurasian Milfoil and Flowering Rush are the primary Invasive Species to be treated at this time. The project purpose is to meet requirements of Statute 22-2407, maintain the recreational value of the waterway and to maintain a safe environment for water users.

We received three responses to the RFP request (attached).

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approval to contract with “Aquatic Weed Solutions”

ACTION: Council provide authority to mayor to sign selected contract.

WILL THERE BE ANY FINANCIAL IMPACT? Yes, cost to pay contract. HAS THIS ITEM BEEN BUDGETED? Yes

ATTACHMENTS: RFP Request Proposal ACE diving Proposal Blue /Swamp Thing Proposal Aquatic Weed Solutions Statutes Page 1 of 1

Idaho Statutes

TITLE 22 AGRICULTURE AND HORTICULTURE

CHAPTER 24 NOXIOUS WEEDS

22-2407. LANDOWNER AND CITIZEN DUTIES. (1) It shall be the duty and responsibility of all landowners to control noxious weeds on their land and property, in accordance with this chapter and with rules promulgated by the director. (2) The cost of controlling noxious weeds shall be the obligation of the landowner. (3) Noxious weed control must be for prevention, eradication, rehabilitation, control or containment efforts. However, areas may be modified from the eradication requirement if the landowner is a participant in a county-approved weed management plan or county-approved cooperative weed management area. (4) The landowner shall reimburse the county control authority for work done because of failure to comply with a five (5) day notice, as outlined in section 22-2405, Idaho Code. (5) If an article is infested with noxious weeds, it shall not be moved from designated premises until it is treated in accordance with the applicable rules, or in accordance with the written permission of a control authority.

History: [(22-2407) 1970, ch. 149, sec. 2, p. 448; am. 1974, ch. 18, sec. 62, p. 364; am. 1981, ch. 309, sec. 3, p. 635; am. 1987, ch. 331, sec. 2, p. 691; am. and redesignated 1989, ch. 298, sec. 2, p. 731; am. and redesig. 1993, ch. 247, sec. 10, p. 867; am. 2006, ch. 225, sec. 5, p. 675.]

http://www.legislature.idaho.gov/idstat/Title22/T22CH24SECT22-2407PrinterFriendly.htm 7/13/2016

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL Herbicide free treatment of Aquatic Invasive Species

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The City of Sandpoint is seeking a proposal to control/eradicate Aquatic Invasive Species in Windbag Marina, City Beach and Memorial launch. City Council requires that the treatment methods applied are non-herbicide based. Aquatic Eurasian Milfoil and Flowering Rush are the primary Invasive Species to be treated at this time. The project purpose is to meet requirements of Idaho Statute 22-2407, maintain the recreational value of the waterway and to maintain a safe environment for water users. This will be a 3 year contract pending annual budget approval. The Proposal deadline is June 20th, 2016.

ELIGIBILITY

The project is open to all qualified professionals.

BACKGROUND Lake Pend Oreille and the make up a lake system that contains 110,000 acres of water in Bonner County, Idaho. In 2005, an aquatic survey revealed Eurasian Watermilfoil in Lake Pend Oreille waters. This noxious weed has the potential to rapidly increase eutrophication of the lake system, impacting the value of the lake for water supply, boating, swimming, and fishing. Bonner County Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force (Now disbanded and meeting informally) recommended a comprehensive program to control Eurasian Watermilfoil which includes diver dredging, bottom barrier placement, herbicide applications, and education and prevention efforts. The Bonner County Weed Department, in cooperation with the Idaho State Department of Agriculture and many other cooperating agencies, continued the control efforts and begun with the treatment of 3,832 acres of Eurasian Watermilfoil in 2006, treating up to 1,870 acres of Eurasian Watermilfoil in 2007.

City of Sandpoint 1

A third-party survey crew from Mississippi State University conducted surveys and extensively mapped the region in 2007 in support of ongoing monitoring and control efforts. **Final Report**

During the 2007 season, interested citizens were invited to attend and speak at public meetings, to visit the Milfoil Information Center in Sandpoint, ID, and to participate in the weekly boat tours of the treatment area. Interested persons are invited to contact Bonner County Public Works.” Source agri.idaho.gov

In March of 2012 the City of Sandpoint was contacted by the Idaho Department of Agriculture with a proposal to treat Eurasian Water Milfoil in the city beach/Windbag Marina area with Aquatic Herbicide (Triclopyr) First Council Meeting 4/18/12. In the Council meeting 5/16/12 Staff was directed to develop a plan for this year for use of alternative methods, in partnership with Lake Pend Oreille Water Keeper and Idaho State Department of Agriculture, to develop a long term strategic plan for invasive species control and to authorize the Mayor to respond to the State by letter that the City is looking forward to having a partnership with the State on a strategic plan and management of aquatic invasive species at City Beach and Windbag Marina on a technical capacity level but does not support herbicide application in these areas at this time.

The City has treated these areas with diver hand-pulling, flowering rush pulls and biodegrade-able bottom barriers for the last 3 years. Anecdotally we have met our goals for maintaining the recreational value of the waterway and maintaining a safe environment for water users.

PROJECT GOALS

1. Control/Eradicate Aquatic Invasive Species 2. Establish a 3-year methodology for treatment of Aquatic Invasives 3. Establish a quantifiable method of assessment and assess the effectiveness of treatment. 4. Treatment of areas using the methodology

SCOPE The Windbag, City Beach treatment area is ~ 20.5 acres. (Map 1) Memorial Boat Launch treatment area is ~ 1 acre. Third Avenue Pier is < 0.25 Acre. Moorage during work can be provided by the City. The city can also provide for a reduction in cost a suitable working diver hand pulling platform (e.g. pontoon boat) and outboard engine; EWM separator and collection bins; dredge/suction device with compressor; and hand tools. Contact

City of Sandpoint 2

Coordinator for boat details. 1. The city Integrated Weed Management Plan states “Natural and Sensitive Areas Program This program includes stormwater swales, wetlands, riparian corridors, shorelines and aquatic habitats within the City of Sandpoint. These areas are city- owned property with critical environmental resources, sheltering native ecosystems and wildlife habitat. The City of Sandpoint is also committed to protecting the water quality of Lake Pend Oreille and the Pend Oreille River for the benefit of their aquatic inhabitants as well as those that rely upon these waterbodies as sources of potable drinking water. Traditional herbicide use is not permitted in natural and sensitive areas for noxious or nuisance weeds. The occurrence of all weeds should be addressed using the decision making process discussed in the previous section, utilizing preventative, cultural, mechanical, natural herbicides and biological controls only.” 2. This work occurs during the busiest use of the recreation areas, plan should include description of how impacts to boaters and public safety will be protected. 3. Water quality and low turbidity needs to be maintained. 4. Weed fragments must be contained. 5. If additional bottom barriers are considered consult with ISDA and ACOE for permitting. 6. Project must include method for assessment of effort and an annual report showing areas worked, methods applied and results.

BENCHMARKS • Complete removal of Aquatic Invasives in swim area throughout season • Complete removal of all Flowering Rush • Maintain a 3ft buffer between Aquatic Invasives and water surface in all areas

BUDGET The City has budgeted $26,777 for this season. All work needs to be completed by September 15th and an invoice sent to the City by September 30th.

TIMELINE Jun. 20th Deadline for submissions Jun. 23rd Choose proposal Jul. 1st Begin work Sep. 15th Seasonal work finished Invoice submitted

City of Sandpoint 3

HOW TO APPLY

All materials must be received at Sandpoint City Hall by Jun 20th, 2016. Please send submissions and direct any questions to:

City of Sandpoint Attn: Jared Yost, Weed Superintendent 1123 Lake Street Sandpoint, ID 83864 208.265.1480 [email protected]

Submissions may be electronic or printed and should include the following materials: 1. Contact information including name, address, telephone and email 2. Biographical information 3. Proposed budget including any fabrication and installation, materials, travel, and equipment fees 4. Proposed payment or fee schedule 5. A written narrative describing your proposal along with a description of how it corresponds with meeting all of the goals for this project. 6. Provide client references and contact information.

City of Sandpoint 4

SITE IMAGES

Map 1

Map 2

City of Sandpoint 5

Map 3

City of Sandpoint 6

[Type text] A quatic A.C.E. Diving PO Box 840 C onsulting & Spirit Lake, ID 83869 E valuation (208) 755-0800 Specializing in Aquatic Nuisance Species [email protected]

1,Contact information, Please refer to Statement of qualifications. 2, Biographical info, Please see Statement of qualifications. 3, Proposed budget, Please see Cost proposal page 6. 4, Payment proposal. One bill shortly after completion of 2016 project completion. Payment expected in 2016, as per city normal bill paying schedule. 5, Written narrative explaining project plan. Please see Proposed Work Plan page 7. 6, References, please see References page 2.

STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS

Presented by; Aquatic Consulting and Evaluation, AKA A.C.E. Diving Sole Proprietorship Owner: Doug Freeland P.O. Box 840 Spirit Lake, Idaho 83869 Phone 208 755 0800 Tax Id 536520712

Introduction:

A.C.E. Diving is a North Idaho based sole proprietorship founded in the year 2000 by owner Doug Freeland. Doug has been a certified diver since 1964,his experience in the field of aquatic and terrestrial noxious weed control that motivated him to form a company whose primary objective was giving a “diver’s perspective” of aquatic plant life to be used for documentation, planning, and control efforts. Doug is extremely active throughout the noxious weed control industry, regularly attending educational and networking events and performing presentations at events and to public and private audiences upon request. To further his repertoire, Doug spends part of his “off season” in Central Florida, where he takes advantage of the fresh water springs to determine best management practice plans.

Since its inception, A.C.E. Diving’s portfolio continues to grow, the current primary workload consisting of approximately 80% of dredge removal projects for Eurasian Watermilfoil including operations for both private and government agencies such as Kootenai, Bonner, and Valley Counties in Idaho, , California, and numerous smaller waterways in Washington and Oregon. We own four private dredge systems and operate three agency owned systems. We have also performed control efforts for Hydrilla, Brazilian Elodea, Lyngbya, and Asian Clams throughout the Pacific Northwest and Florida. Associations include the Tri-State Water Quality Council and TRPA.

In addition to mechanical control services, we provide services for surveying, bottom barrier construction/installation, and consulting for ANS. By providing information regarding the

A.C.E. Diving Statement of Qualifications – Page 1

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dynamics of plant species, bottom sediment, and level fluctuations, we feel that we can enhance early detection and control efforts of ANS by aiding Lake and Water Quality managers in assessing the typical risk factors to properly evaluate the potential threat thereby promoting the native plant community.

Our goals are to bring expertise, integrity, knowledge, and a progressive attitude to aid in a proactive approach for aquatic nuisance species management.

NO legal penalties or litigation have ever been imposed on A.C.E. Diving, nor does the company contain any type of special ownership status.

Scope of Services: Evaluations

We provide diving services in waterways to investigate the status of aquatic species. Services include written summary reports and recommendations for control efforts.

Control

We apply the methods most suitable for the location and based on the goals of the project including:

• Diver hand pulling • Diver dredge work • Bottom barrier installation and manufacturing including bio-degradable barrier • Investigating of other available resources, including sterile triploid grass carp, milfoil weevils, natural bottom barrier, direct underwater spot chemical treatment, and innovative techniques offered by ACE Diving.

Surveying and Mapping

We provide the option of tracking our treatment and survey efforts using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. Results are provided in digital and/or hard copy formats. Surveying is performed using all known aquatic techniques. Rake tossing to help determine densities. Divers swim and divers tow techniques are used fir first hand viewing of infestations. Underwater pictures and videos are used to quantify and verify infestations

References:

Spirit Lake Property Owner’s Association – 1998 to Present

Spearheaded and managed the control of Eurasian Watermilfoil in Spirit Lake since 1998, through underwater assessments and mechanical control. Milfoil reduction from a known 50 acres of dense infestation in 1998 to less than 30 plants removed in 2013. Contact: Linda Pendleton, Secretary/Treasurer (208) 623-3333

A.C.E. Diving Statement of Qualifications – Page 2

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Kootenai County Noxious Weeds – 1998 to Present

Divers have been working in conjunction with herbicide treatments to control Eurasian Watermilfoil since 1998 in Hayden Lake. This waterway is heavily infested and is an ongoing concern, but has shown vast improvement with integrated vegetation management practices.

Contact: Linda Ely, Kootenai County Weed Superintendent (208) 446-1290 ISC/Milfoil Task Force – 2003-2004

Cocolalla Lake Association – 2006 present

Served as a consultant to the Cocolalla Home Owner’s Association to develop a EWM Management plan.

Contact: Cocolalla Home Owner’s Association Shelley Vincent Cary Poston Rose Chaney (206) 427-8015 (208) 263-4157 (208) 263-2940

Coeur d’Alene Tribe – 2006-present

Surveyed Chacolet, Round, and Coeur d’Alene Lakes to verify findings of known infestations. Operated diver suction device to remove milfoil from designated areas of these lakes. Performed bottom barrier experiments for the University of Idaho.

Contact: Dave Lamb (deceased) (208) 686-6206

Avista Corporation – 2006-Present

Installed bottom barriers in the Noxon and Cabinet Reservoirs for a Milfoil Control project in conjunction with the Noxon Cabinet Shoreline Coalition and Montana State Milfoil Task Force.

Contact: Brian Burky (406) 847-1283

Idaho Department of Agriculture – Bruneau River 2008 – Present

In 2008, a Hydrilla infestation was detected in the Bruneau River system. The Idaho Department of Agriculture determined quick response diver removal to be the best plan of attack. A.C.E. Diving has spent 6 weeks over 2008 and 2009 removing the Hydrilla from nearly 1 mile of infested river. Additional funds have been allocated to the project, for removal of the few remaining infestations during 2010.

Contact: Tom Woolf, Aquatic Program Manager, ISDA (208) 332-8564

A.C.E. Diving Statement of Qualifications – Page 3

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Idaho Department of Agriculture – North Idaho – Present

Awarded the contract for mechanical removal and waterway surveying for all of the northern portion of Idaho State.

Contact: Tom Woolf, Aquatic Program Manager, ISDA (208) 332-8564

Deer Lake, Washington State, 2008- present

Establish a milfoil control program in conjunction with Stevens County, Washington For Deer Lake Washington which includes annual surveying and manual removal of all established milfoil infestations.

Bead Lake, Washington State, 2009 to present

Surveyed and mapped milfoil infestation to determine the extent of the population. Made treatment recommendations and have established a milfoil control program in Bead Lake for Pend Oreille County and the private property owners.

Contact: Sharon L Sorby 509-447-6478

During 2003, surveyed 65 waterways for early detection and susceptibility of Eurasian Watermilfoil. 40 waterways were surveyed in 2004, during which Eurasian Watermilfoil was located in 3 waterways that had previously not shown a presence of the plant.

Key Personnel:

Doug Freeland, Owner

Doug’s invasive species experience has allowed him to provide services for surveying, control, and consulting for aquatic invasive species in 9 states including Florida and Hawaii. He has designed control tools for manual removal of Hydrilla, Brazilian Elodea, Eurasian Watermilfoil, Salvinia Molesta, Asian Clams, and Lyngbya. Doug designed and manufactures the style of bottom barrier currently required by the Idaho State Department of Lands, and has consulted with the Nature Conservancy and University for equipment and diving for ocean ANS in Hawaii. Presently, Doug is consulting with the Tahoe Regional Planning Association to determine a plan for controlling Eurasian Watermilfoil and Curly Leaf Pondweed in Lake Tahoe.

• Certified Diver since 1964, obtaining certification as a Dive Master in 2002 • Kootenai County Noxious Weed Milfoil Coordinator 1995-2001 • 14 years of experience in aquatic invasive species vacuum dredge removal • 12 years - Idaho Professional Applicator, License No. 41828 (AH, AW, LS) • Aqua culture degree • Actively involved in the ANS control community, regularly attending conferences/seminars focusing on the effectiveness of equipment and control methods – UC Davis, Portland State University, Washington State Department of Ecology, Washington State Lake Association, Tri-State Water Council, Farwest Agricbusiness- Nevada Conference, Idaho State Milfoil Taskforce. • Presentations:

A.C.E. Diving Statement of Qualifications – Page 4

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o WALPA Conference 2001 o Western Aquatic Invasive Conference in Denver, Colorado in 2005 and in San Diego, California in 2006 o UC Davis Annual Invasive Species Workshop 2007 o Montana State University Invasive Conference 2008 o WAMPS Tahoe, California 2008 o Tahoe Regional Planning Conference 2008 o WAPMS Conference Honolulu, Hawaii 2009 o Misc. Government Tours, Private Organizations, Public Schools, and Water Quality Councils upon request

Andy Carlson – Diver/Sub-contractor

Andy owns and operates Legacy Diving, in addition to owning a construction business for his off milfoil season work. He is well versed in Business Management techniques, in addition to his training in Invasive Species removal and identification of local native aquatic plants and ANS.

• 11 years of experience in aquatic invasive species vacuum dredge removal

John Ketrenos – Diver/Sub-contractor

John is a Washington state resident with extensive experience dealing with aquatic plants native to the state. In addition to his training in invasive species removal and identification of local native, aquatic, and ANS, he has 5 years experience using specialized underwater equipment while removing abandon pilings from the original railroad trestle across the Pend Oreille River in Idaho.

• 13 years of experience in aquatic invasive species vacuum dredge removal

Mike Kinzer – Diver/Sub-contractor

In addition to his diving and aquatic plant training, Mike owns and operates Silver Lake Manufacturing based in Spirit Lake, Idaho. While his business is primarily manufacturing of truck beds and trailers, he has 20 years of experience in aluminum boat manufacturing.

• 7 years of experience in aquatic invasive species identification and vacuum dredge removal

Key personnel are not paid on an hourly basis. Jobs are evaluated and awarded to personnel on a per job estimation of cost.

Capability to provide:

ACE Diving has been involved in invasive species control work throughout the U.S. We have equipment and personnel capable of handling this type of project from the small local ponds to the largest of Waterways. We have projects ranging for the Clear Springs viewing pond in Buel Idaho to Lake Tahoe in California and Nevada

Qualifications and expertise summary.

A.C.E. Diving Statement of Qualifications – Page 5

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Please refer to references. All of these projects are still active and include the contact information of the project managers.

Equipment:

ACE Diving owns and operates 5 floating invasive species control platforms. Ranging from small potable dredges which will operate in 2 inches of water to a 24 foot boat equipped with a 11 horse power 5 inch plant removal dredge. We also have barrier installation equipment capable of laying acres of both bio-degradable and re-usable bottom barrier. We have all of the most advanced equipment for invasive species management work available.

A.C.E. Diving is based out of Spirit Lake Idaho. We have equipment and personnel capable of being on most job sites in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, and California in a couple weeks’ notice. We have worked as far east in Montana as Fort Peck.

Service Proposal; A.C.E. Diving respectively submits this proposal to supply professional services to perform said project, including all surveying, and mapping. Included in our proposal is the ability to mechanically control small infestations (less than 1000 square feet ) or sparse infestations ( less than 5 plants per square meter). Our company does consult on all types of herbicide use but we do not apply chemicals..

Cost Proposal;

A dive boat equipped with a vacuum dredge and 2 personnel will be $150.00 per hour. If we use your equipment the hourly rate would drop to $120.00 per hour. This would be our preference. Hourly rate will continue for time needed for maintenance or repair required for equipment supplied by the city.

Evaluation Criteria;

1, ACE Diving has over 18 years’ experience controlling and mapping for aquatic invasive species. While working primarily on Eurasian watermilfoil all other invasive plants, purple loosestrife, yellow flag iris, flowering rush etc. are also embedded in our surveying and mapping techniques.

2, Doug Freeland (owner A.C.E.Diving) worked for Kootenai County weed department from 1997 to 2004. 50 years diving experience and almost 20 years of invasive species mapping and control work is represented by our company.

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Proposed work plan;

ACE has many years’ experience on the City of Sandpoint milfoil project. We feel we have intimate knowledge of the logistics of the invasive problems and we will attempt to do all possible to achieve the goals of the city of Sandpoint.

In areas if minimum density diver hand removal is the preference. In areas where density makes hand removal impossible we can supply barrier control techniques with the cooperation of Idaho State Dept. of Agriculture.

ACE Diving has over 15 years’ experience in invasive species control. Every situation is unique in its difficulties. We will strive to use the most effective methods or we will design new and better methods for optimal control of invasive species for this project.

A.C.E. Diving Statement of Qualifications – Page 7

BIG BLUE MOOSE LLC Professional Aquatic Weed Control & Waterways Dredging Covering the Northwest – Mountain Region Nationwide: 1-800-649-7946 Bid Proposal # 2016-0620-1128 Bid Date: June 20, 2016 Bid for: Jared Yost, GIS Manager/Urban Forester Service: Aquatic Invasive Weed Maintenance City of Sandpoint, Idaho

Each body of water has its own unique ecosystem. At Big Blue Moose our goal is to put together a customized program that considers your current needs and anticipates future needs. We are a company that takes prides in doing what is right for you and the environment at a competitive price. Since our inception we have chosen to use only natural means of weed control and never use herbicides or chemicals of any sort. Mechanical removal and natural biologicals are our methods of choice.

Specifications: The proposed sites are located at on Lake Pend Oreille for the City of Sandpoint Idaho and City/Windbag Marina.

There are several areas shown on maps 1 and 2 that have been discussed and need aquatic maintenance services without the use of herbicides. It is best to use an eco-friendly program that takes in consideration of all the residents and visitors that enjoy the beach and swim areas in the City of Sandpoint. We want to continue the program you have established but also add some things that we believe will improve what you have already started. Therefore, we are offering the following services to meet this same mindset.

Map 1 Map 2

Big Blue Moose, in cooperation with Swamp Thing, LLC, has vast resources and knowledge in the field of aquatic services and solutions. Primarily we plan to use aquatic cutting/harvesting in and around the marina areas and boating lanes as needed. This will allow you to have these areas maintained properly. Our goal is to harvest more AIS than perhaps has ever been accomplished in all previous years. We will provide you with proper data: GPS coordinates and pictures of pre- and post-treated areas. We also propose to implement naturally occurring bacteria and enzyme formulas to treat specific areas of the lake bottom that may show excess eutrophication, into our long term plan to enhance these areas. The formulas we use are proven to reduce nutrient loads from decaying plant material. We feel a combination of several programs will allow us to treat your immediate goals. Dredging could be another long-term solution to help remove the abundant nutrient rich sediments that AIS thrive in. We offer this as another potential tool to help reduce weed growth and improve the overall health of this body of water.

Safety is always paramount to Big Blue Moose, LLC. Our aquatic weed harvester is painted in safety orange color, which allows maximum visibility and identification to all boaters and the general public. Signage on board will include “Warning – Active Work area”. Craft is slow moving and should be easily avoided by boaters. Employees will wear appropriate flotation devices and brightly colored, day-glo, fluorescent vests.

In the pictures below we have made notes on the areas that have been treated in the past with diver assisted weed removal/dredging to manage milfoil. It was noted in your previous reports that even after using the diver assisted dredging the milfoil would simply regrow in these areas within approximately a month.

2 It is important for everyone involved to understand that milfoil naturally auto fragments in the fall as part of its reproductive process. The prime consideration is to remove as much milfoil as possible before the fall! Considering the boat traffic in/out of the marinas the milfoil is probably already being fragmented. Therefore, weed cutting around the marina areas/boat slips and boating lanes, will help remove the bulk of vegetation that is being disturbed/fragmented by boat traffic.

3 If the boat propellers can't reach the weeds, they can't cut and spread them. Also remember (based on previous review/discussions) new milfoil fragments already occur due to the flow from the Cabinet Gorge Dam, with a constant supply of fragments due to downstream flow and dominant south winds that are blowing the milfoil to the north shore. The combination of these factors will always lead to regrowth. Even with diver assisted removal you are going to have growth in these areas once the milfoil is hand removed. With an open lake floor plants will likely regrow with proper nutrients and sunlight. Therefore, weed cutting with our machines will be a cost effective eco- maintenance tool to manage these areas. The picture below shows the massive amounts of vegetation that would otherwise have led to additional fragmentation. Thousands and thousands of pounds were removed each day! Although diver assisted removal of AIS is a good and valid tool in the battle against invasives, in our opinion, the hand removal method simply has not and cannot keep up with the massive proliferation of AIS. Many infested waterways in the US are actually losing ground each year by continuing with diver assisted methods alone.

Overview of services provided: 1. We will remove excess vegetation by means of our Aquatic Harvesters.

2. We will locate specific areas of excessive eutrophication to treat with natural biologicals.

3. We will specify a control group area for future reference and comparisons.

4. We will provide detailed assessment documentation for your group which should better assist you when making long and short term goals/plans.

5. We will provide accurate cuttings in the marina and boat slips that should improve safety and better boat navigation. We will follow up to check for effectiveness and plan more treatment(s) if necessary. For example, if requested, we could return to provide additional cuttings in certain problematic areas if the vegetation became thick again in a month.

6. We plan to design and print educational signage and prominently display it on shore

4 near the work-site in order to familiarize the public with the problems of AIS and the benefits of mechanical removal.

Big Blue Moose acknowledges the Project Goals. 1. Control/eradicate Aquatic Invasive Species 2. Establish a 3-year methodology for treatment of Aquatic invasives 3. Establish a quantifiable method of assessment and assess the effectiveness of treatment. 4. Treatment of areas using the methodology

Our final report will show to correspond completely with the City of Sandpoint's stated goals. Each of the three seasons of work shall be based on what is learned and needed in the previous season.

Assessment

Any important project such as this needs to include documentation and assessment. Assessment not only benefits us but also benefits the City of Sandpoint and the end users of Lake Pend Oreille.

Therefore, Big Blue Moose, LLC proposes to:

 Keep daily logs of our work progress. The logbook will contain photo documentation depicting the AIS problem before we begin work and afterward in order to visually track our progress.  Plan to keep records of the total weed harvest each day.  Plan to match these figures to maps to help document the most problematic areas.  Plan to denote one or more control areas set aside to compare and contrast our efforts over the next 3-year contract cycle.  Provide a final report upon completion of each season. This report will list details of both our successes and our concerns. Other important areas of note: are weather, boat traffic, potential breakdowns, tourist/swimmer usage. Each of these could impact the project in some way and should be kept in mind.

Harvesting is very healthy for the lake and your ecosystem since vegetation is removed that would otherwise decompose and ultimately add to next year's weed growth. This can be compounded when an herbicide is applied to the vegetation; it decomposes the plant and adds nutrients to the sediments below. Too many nutrients within a body of water cause an overabundance of algae blooms.

Big Blue Moose will work within your budget of $26,777 for this season. However, we anticipate this amount will cover cutting, and harvesting, and delivery to shore at least the majority of said areas, only once. Big Blue Moose could dispose of the cut aquatic vegetation for an additional charge, if needed. Details may be agreed upon before work

5 begins. Naturally this will be dependent upon the level of AIS found at that time. We have budgeted for and anticipate this can be accomplished in approximately 10-12 working days. Any additional treatments would have associated costs of approximately $2,000 per day.

In light of the RFP selection date, we would ask for flexibility in the July 1, start date.

We propose a travel budget of approximately $4,250, which allows for transport of all trucks, equipment, and personnel to and from the site as well as room and board.

A 35% deposit of the projected work will be due to secure your project. The second 35% shall be due after the first ten business days. The remainder will be due upon completion of the project. We suggest a second harvesting but this would be at a separate cost to properly maintain these areas throughout the season. Allowing the residents to enjoy these areas safely.

We are pleased and excited to see that your contract is covering a 3-year period. We believe this will result in a contractor who takes pride and ownership in the long-term viability of the project. This will allow us to review and analyze different methods, keep data and make strong changes for the future. We are ready to partner with the City of Sandpoint and are anxious to do our part to control the AIS issue and keep Lake Pend Oreille beautiful and inviting for each of its visitors and residents alike.

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have.

Bruce DeFoor Big Blue Moose LLC 2837 Caribou Lane Stevensville, MT 59870 [email protected] www.BigBlueMoose.us 406-318-7788 406-777-5046

Kevin Bridges [email protected] [email protected] www.swampthing.us Nationwide 1-800-649-7946

6 Some Advantages of Aquatic Weed Harvesting

1. Immediate relief from nuisance plants that interfere with navigation and recreation 2. Immediate use of the water for swimming and boating 3. Over time, plants become stressed and grow more sparse and shorter in height in frequently harvested sites 4. Biomass is removed from the water and along with it the nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium that are bound up in the vegetation 5. Harvesting does not kill the vegetation, but instead gives it a hair-cut, leaving behind living plants that continue to provide oxygen and habitat for the other organisms. Which is also good for native plants. 6. The living plants left behind continue to absorb the polluting nutrients that are used for growth 7. Harvesting vegetation from the lake greatly reduces countless tons of biomass that will eventually die and collapse at the end of the season. This biomass will decompose, consume oxygen, and release nutrients back into the water column to grow more weeds and algae in the future. 8. Harvesting the biomass also reduces the accumulation of muck and sediment on the bottom that occurs from the rotting weeds 9. A Lake Weed Harvester is a tool that can be used to improve the fishery. For example, “Cruising Lanes” can be formed into certain weed beds to provide access for fishermen, and for predator fish, too. Predator fish graze the edges of trimmed weed beds, increasing their chances of finding prey. 10. Lake weeds make a great compost and soil conditioner. The decomposed vegetation compares to cow manure in terms of nutrient content. Also, it contains no seeds that can grow on land. 11. Harvesting is a highly selective process. Exactly where you steer the machine is exactly where the plants will be cut. 12. A Lake Weed Harvester is an essential tool in the lake manager’s tool box. It can be made to cut shallow or deep, narrow or wide, fast or slow, depending on what is needed. 13. A Lake Weed Harvester complements other lake management strategies, including herbicide use. For example, the canopy of vegetation can be harvested BEFORE a chemical treatment is done. This technique may save money because it enables the lake manager to use less herbicide. And it will reduce the negative environmental impacts of using chemicals by reducing the tonnage of biomass that settles to the bottom to decompose.

7 Aquatic Weed Harvesting Facts

There is a common misconception that aquatic weed harvesters are responsible for the spread of Eurasian milfoil. It is perpetuated by a variety of sources. People often accuse the weed harvester for causing “floaters” long before it has even been launched into the lake! But what are some real causes of milfoil spread?

- Auto fragmentation: The natural way Eurasian milfoil reproduces is to automatically break apart. This is a natural reproductive process of the plant itself. So even when milfoil is left alone and untouched, it will still auto-fragment as part of its life cycle.

- Herbicide use: The collapsing vegetation breaks apart and washes up on shore.

- Any water disturbance that is caused by waterfowl, swimmers, boats, boat trailers, pets, jet skis, fishing, other wildlife; and even the fish themselves!

- Just compare 200+ boats over a one weekend versus one harvester working 5 days a week: What’s the biggest culprit here?

One medium sized weed harvester will cut and collect 4,000 – 12,000 pounds PER HOUR of Eurasian milfoil which, left on its own, would be chopped up by boat propellers, auto fragmented, or otherwise spread around the lake. In other words, the harvester removes massive amounts of biomass that would otherwise be fragmented and spread all by itself.

Thousands of aquatic weed harvester customers worldwide will attest to the value and effectiveness of lake weed harvesting. City, state, and federal agencies across the nation contract weed harvesting services year after year proving their validity.

8 Biographical Information

Big Blue Moose, LLC is a minority owned company operating in Montana, Idaho, Colorado, Wyoming, North and South Dakota, and Texas. Based in Stevensville, Montana, the CEO is Bruce DeFoor and the owner is Elizabeth Sandoval DeFoor. The primary focus of the business is pond and lake management and aquatic invasive weed control.

Although Big Blue Moose was newly founded in 2015, it's partner, Swamp Thing, LLC has been existence for 15 years. Kevin Bridges, owner of Swamp Thing, WWW.SwampThing.us is based in Clearwater, Michigan. In 2015, and 2016, a few noteworthy jobs were completed for the city of Palmer Lake, Colorado and DuPont Corporation in Orange, Texas.

Big Blue Moose also teams with Ron Pifer of Environmental Solutions, of Stevensville, MT. Together Environmental Solutions www.environmentalsolutions.net. and Big Blue Moose www.BigBlueMoose.us have done custom installations of complete aeration systems. Aqua ProsTM , a proprietary formula of bacteria and natural enzymes, is used to treat ponds to decompose and digest noxious decaying plant matter.

Big Blue Moose and Swamp Thing LLC have an array of experience and equipment at our disposal to meet all your aquatic needs.

9 REFERENCES

Ron Pifer Environmental Solutions Stevensville, MT 59870 www.environmentalsolutions.net 800-706-4990

Rick Richey Contractor 406-369-0986

Kevin Bridges [email protected] [email protected] www.swampthing.us Nationwide 1-800-649-7946

10

Aquatic Weed Solutions 2016-2018 City of Sandpoint non-herbicide treatment proposal

I. Contact Info:

Aquatic Weed Solutions INC.

Mathew Lawrence

P.O. Box 854

Sandpoint, ID 83864

(208) 255-6444 [email protected] www.aquaticweedsolutions.com

II. Biographical Info:

Aquatic Weed Solutions was established in February of 2016, with the expertise of the Lawrence family. Our vision is to provide a new industry standard of service, adaptability and innovation. Having worked in the industry for nearly the last decade, I have seen very few innovations and improvements to the practices. Our mission is to improve the current methods, and strive for better results year after year. I (Mathew Lawrence) Owner, and Brandon Lawrence have ten years combined experience in the aquatic plant management field.

- Clean Lakes, Inc: Applicator technicians - Idaho department of Agriculture: Aquatic invasive species surveyors My wife Megan Lawrence also has 4 years experience working for ISDA as an invasive species surveyor. Throughout our time in the field we have gained an extensive knowledge of how to manage our three primary aquatic invasive species: Eurasian Water Milfoil (and hybrids), Flowering Rush, and Curly Leaf Pondweed. We have spent countless hours underwater using the hookah system to remove these plants, as well as laying bottom barriers for Asian clams. Working for ISDA we were involved in monitoring the state contractors for weed removal, upon watching and working for one of their contractors we were able to combine all of the practices of the applicators as well as the knowledge of the ISDA team to fine tune aquatic plant removal strategies to be more efficient and customer service oriented. We are a local, minority owned, (native American) young, innovative, experienced family looking to protect the water we grew up on and love. At Aquatic weed solutions we believe competition breeds excellence and we are excited for the chance to advance the industry standard.

III. Budget:

• A complimentary GPS survey and assessment will be given at the beginning of the project to come up with a management strategy collaborating with ISDA, Lake pend Oreille water keeper, and the city of Sandpoint to determine the most cost effective way to complete the project

• $115 an hour for a pontoon boat set up with our state of the art diver assisted suction harvesting equipment and two rotating divers to ensure safety and performance. There will be no fees added this is an all-inclusive price for the diver assisted suction.

• We will be offering 6 GPS surveys free of charge 2 rake surveys, 2 visual surveys, and 2 drone (aerial surveys if conditions allow). Any additional surveys or 3rd party surveys will be $80 an hour if contracted through AWS.

• Fee’s for installing bottom barriers are $115 an hour for 2 divers boat and boat and diver supplies excluding bottom barrier cost, sand bags, or other securing devices.

• Use of City of Sandpoint Boat and suction equipment $80 an hour for 2 rotating divers, City would be responsible for all repairs and major service to their equipment. AWS is not responsible for any mechanical failures or normal wear and tear to the equipment from use. Use of AWS equipment is preferred as we have the equipment we feel is the most dependable and gets the job done the most efficiently.

• All supplies not included in the diver assisted suction harvesting will be billed back to city of Sandpoint at cost, will provide purchase receipts, Bottom barriers, Sand bags, Sterile grass carp.

IV. Payment Schedule:

Net 30 days from Invoice. Invoice will be summited upon completion of the job with the approval of Jared Yost.

5% interest added after 60 days

10% interest added after 90 days

V. AWS will first survey the treatment areas using 3 different ISDA approved methods for best results, and record the data in various map and graph forms. Dependent upon findings we will coordinate with City of Sandpoint, ISDA, LPO Water keeper, and any other agency seeking input, the conclusion of the data, and what our projected plan of attack will be. Based off of my experience in the specific treatment areas, we will use a combination of the diver assisted suction harvesting and bio- degradable barriers while entertaining any recommendation for alternative treatment methods. The D.A.S.H. (diver assisted suction harvester) being the primary treatment method for Flowering rush, Eurasian Water Milfoil and Curly Leaf Pondweed. I would like to control as much as funding will allow this year (hopefully all of it) and do a thorough assessment of our progress and mapping of treated and untreated affected areas for comparison. One of the biggest changes I would like to see for next season is to allow the project to start much sooner in the year when plants are just starting to emerge. This will not only allow us to be more efficient in controlling them before they peak, but also minimize fragmentation by eliminating the plant before it nears the surface. We would of course follow up later in the season if necessary to meet our goal. Bio-degradable barriers properly permitted and approved by ISDA, and the ACOE will be applied if necessary upon completion of evaluation surveys, and consensus coordination. According to Tom Woolf of ISDA he has a permit ready for the 2016 season if we find that would be the best option.

• We are a receptive, innovative company. When a more efficient method is discovered, we have the adaptability to implement new technology with minimal learning curves. With the treatment methods discussed, we can control and work towards eradication over the next 3 years. Each season we will re-evaluate and track our progress via survey documentation, to ensure the correct course of action is taken every year.

• We will provide 6 GPS surveys each season, along with a map displaying current plant densities. This will allow us to determine how effective the treatments were, and for how long. We will weigh the bio-mass in order to provide a quantifiable amount, and compare this data to plant density. We will provide aerial photos of before and after if conditions allow. For monitoring the bottom barrier effectiveness, we will measure the area treated and determine the approximate amount of biomass it controlled comparatively to D.A.S.H. and document the progress over the 3 years to determine cost effectiveness. We will provide easy to read graphs and reports at the end of each season to help the City and tax payers easily understand the benefits and the progress being made as well as what may need to be changed.

• All work will be performed with safety being the number one priority. Each day all employees will complete a JSA (job safety analysis) to ensure proper protocol is fresh on our minds and remind employees that we will be working in high traffic areas during the busiest times of the year. We will schedule our days to eliminate as much risk as possible, Early mornings, avoid holidays if possible, etc. One person will always be monitoring the diver and the public to ensure safe operation. Buoys will be placed around working space to show boats where it is safe to travel and where our diver is. All Employees have completed Osha 40 and Safeland training. We will maintain a clean and professional appearance throughout the season, and will happily educate and inform the public of the target invasive species when asked.

• Jobs will be done while creating minimal turbidity and maintaining water quality. All weed fragments will be collected in our separator.

VI. References:

• Idaho Department of Agriculture

Aquatic Invasive Species program manager: Tom Woolf (208) 608-3404 We have all worked under Tom in the field, he is well versed in our skills and what kind of work we do.

• Clean Lakes Inc.

Vice President: Tom Moorhouse (818) 201-5982

Brandon and I worked for Clean Lakes Inc. during the large-scale treatments on Lake Pend Oreille. We have also recently been sub-contracted by them for help with the ISDA Hayden & Priest Lake applications.

No: 16- Date: July 20, 2016

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL CITY OF SANDPOINT

TITLE: ACCEPTANCE OF PROPOSAL AND AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR CONTROL AND ERADICATION OF AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES

WHEREAS: Idaho Code § 22-2407 requires that landowners control noxious weeds on their land and property;

WHEREAS: The City owns and has within its jurisdiction certain property, particularly Windbag Marina, City Beach, the boat launch at War Memorial Field, and Third Avenue Pier, where aquatic invasive plant species, such as aquatic Eurasian milfoil and flowering rush, grow and can be found;

WHEREAS: It is the City’s desire that non-herbicide based methods be used for the treatment of aquatic invasive species;

WHEREAS: In order to meet the requirements of Idaho Code § 22-2407, maintain the recreational value of the waterway, and maintain a safe environment for water users, the City requested proposals from qualified professionals to control and eradicate aquatic invasive species at the above-named locations;

WHEREAS: Of the three proposals that were received, City staff recommends awarding the project to local firm Aquatic Weed Solutions, Inc.; and

WHEREAS: The cost of aquatic invasive species eradication and control is included in the City’s budget for the current fiscal year.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The contract for aquatic invasive species removal is hereby awarded to Aquatic Weed Solutions, Inc., and the Mayor is authorized to execute a contract after review and approval by the City Attorney.

Shelby Rognstad, Mayor ATTEST:

Maree Peck, City Clerk

City Council Members: YES NO ABSTAIN ABSENT 1. Eddy 2. Aitken 3. Williamson 4. Camp 5. Ruehle 6. Snedden