Ground Preparation Services Framework

Description

The purpose of this framework is to provide All Wales NRW Forestry Operations teams with the resource to manage the Ground preparation programme of works predominantly within the Welsh Government Woodland Estate (WGWE). This framework could also be used for NRW funded projects if appropriate. NRW is responsible for the management of the WGWE and has an annual restocking and new planting programme of around 1600 ha’s, requiring some four million trees. NRW manages the WGWE sustainably and is certified by both the Forest Stewardship Council and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification, to meet the UK Woodland Assurance Standard. Lot 1: Ground Preparation using a Tracked Excavator This framework is being developed to provide a flexible contractor base to carry out all aspects of Ground Preparation services using a tracked excavator, which all restocked areas must conform to our NRW’s OGN4 guidance relating to sustainable forest management. The service is to cover category A work such as Brash Raking & Hinge Mounding, Brash Raking & Inverted Mounding, Brash Raking & Screef, Brash Raking only, mulching, construction of ATV Tracks and maintenance of drains. Lot 2: Ground Preparation using a Walking Excavator The Ground Preparation services using a walking excavtor is required to give a structure to restocking the felled areas and has silvicultural benefits such as increased growth rates, reduction in plant losses and can reduce the need to chemically treat areas in line with NRW’S Integrated Pest Management Strategy. Lot 3: Ground Preparation by Scarification Ground preparation by scarification will be required as a key component of restocking and new planting, helping NRW to achieve the successful establishment of trees on a clearfelled areas or woodland creation sites. Ground preparation is usually required to provide beneficial planting positions, that may offer improved soil aeration, reduced weed competition, accessibility to tree planters, as well as providing a structure for tree spacing and stocking density.