Agenda - 05-01-2001-8l - Laserfiche WebLink

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Natural Heritage Program works with local governments, non-profit land trusts and state agencies identify and to inventory and catalogue the rarest and the most outstanding elements of the natural diversity in the state. The update to the Inventory is included in the BOCC Natural Resources goal far 2001-2002, and matching funds are present in the ERCD budget. In February, ERCD issued a request for proposals (attached) seeking a qualified and experienced team of biologists to conduct an update of its 1988 inventory. The RFP resulted in a number of inquiries, but only one formal proposal, from biologist Bruce Sorrie of Longleaf Ecological. After discussing the project Vvith Mr. Sorrie and conferring with the state Natural Heritage Program and the Biological Resources Committee of the Orange County Commission for the Environment, ERCD recommends awarding the contract to Longleaf Ecological. Bruce Sorrie is an independent consulting biologist who has performed a comprehensive natural area inventory for Richmond County and conducted plant community surveys in Randolph County and the Sandhills Game Land. His familiarity with the survey protocol, proposed methods, timeframe and cost of services meet the project requirements as stated in the request for proposals. Mr. Sorrie will perform the majority of the work himself, but will also coordinate field work by other biologists who will volunteer their time. ERCD will coordinate landowner contacts and GIS analysis and mapping work necessary for the project. The survey is to begin in May 2001 and be completed by May 2002. A preliminary report on the fieldwork will be submitted to the County in December 2001. FINANCIAL IMPACT: The cost of contract is $9,600 and is to be paid from existing funds: $5,000 earmarked for this project in ERCD's FY 2000-01 operating budget and $5,000 in matching funds awarded to Orange County for this project by the NC Department of Environment'and Natural Resources. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the BOCC approve the contract and authorize the chair to sign, subject to final review by staff and county attorney, for completion of an update to the Orange County inventory of natural areas and wildlife habitat.