Pineville Branch Aerial Detection Aerial Detection Service for the purpose of patrolling to detect wildfires, wildfire scouting, and wildfire reconnaissance. There will be two peak periods October 1st - December 15th and February 15th - April 30th. Services could be needed outside the peak periods depending upon weather and burning conditions. In addition to detection of wildfires, if the need arises, aerial detection services may include post storm damage assessment, aerial forest health surveys to evaluate possible insect, disease, and abiotic damage, and locating commercial timber harvest operations for the purpose of Best Management Practice (BMP) monitoring. Counties in the Pineville Branch flight pattern includes the following counties: Bell, Clay, Harlan, Jackson, Knox, Laurel, McCreary, Owsley, Rockcastle, Whitley, and other counties as needed. This Master Agreement contract is to be established to secure aerial detection service using fixed-wing aircraft with pilot, for the purpose of detecting wildfires in rural areas of Kentucky, for any or all, of the Kentucky Division of Forestry Branches listed below. The estimated peak periods of service will be October 1st through December 15th, and February 15th through April 30th. Service could be needed outside the peak periods depending upon weather and burning conditions. In addition to detection of wildfires, if the need arises, aerial detection services may include post storm damage assessment, aerial forest health survey to evaluate possible insect, disease, and abiotic damage, and locating commercial timber harvest operations for the purpose of Best Management Practice (BMP) monitoring. Base Point The designated base point will be an airport approved for public use by the Kentucky Department of Transportation. Base points for the each Branch are listed specifically later in the Terms and Conditions. Description of Service The Vendor will be required to furnish service in accordance with terms and specifications. The types of service, which the Vendor will be required to perform, are restricted to: A. Patrolling to detect wildfire B. Wildfire scouting C. Wildfire reconnaissance D. Post storm damage assessment E. Forest health surveys F. Locating commercial timber harvest operations for the purpose of Best Management Practice (BMP) monitoring. After initial pilot orientation (estimated fire hours) in wildfire detection, fire scouting, radio operation, GPS usage, and other special duties, the pilot shall serve as backup to the full-time aerial observer. However, on occasion, the pilot may have to perform those duties in the absence of the aerial observer. While in service for KDF, this aircraft is not to be used for flying instruction or transferring manpower or equipment. Assigned wildfire duties, post storm damage, forest health, and locating commercial timber harvest operations are the only service this aircraft must be involved in while performing under this contract. The early detection of wildfires that endanger life and property is dependent upon this service.
