Council Mountain Trail Reroute - Construction Project

The project to reroute the Council Mountain Trail in the Council District of the Payette National Forest is scheduled to commence on August 4, 2023, and conclude on October 5, 2024. This project aims to shift the trailhead nearer to Cabin Creek Campground to enable access without trespassing private land. The scope of work entails equipment mobilization, excavation, clearance and grubbing, brushing, seeding, the creation of fords, climbing turns, and drain dips, as well as all related tasks. This project will be executed as a firm fixed price contract.

COUNCIL MOUNTAIN TRAIL RE-ROUTE (1240LT23R0061)

CONTRACTOR QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

1. What is the condition and width of tread on trail 198, in order to use upper elevation access from Forest Road 51444?

     The condition is relatively good. It is single track trail approx. 18-24” in width with a concrete barrier preventing vehicles over approx. 36” from entering. These could be moved for construction, but the trail may not be accessible to vehicles (i.e., mini excavator) depending on its size – at least without additional clearing. As of my last visit, there were no windfalls or other obstructions to the segment of existing trail that connects to the new construction from 51444. There is very limited parking/loading area at this location. Land in the vicinity is mostly private (DF Development Corp) though the road is public (USFS easement or cost-share).

1. The construction team set up a spike camp at the Cabin Creek Campground with 2 - 30' Travel trailers for the duration of the project.

     Cabin Creek Campground is likely to be closed during summer of 2024 for a reconstruction project.  The trailers can be parked at dispersed sites in the area including the new trailhead.

1. Please clarify expected construction methodology- Sheet 3 of 20 of Trail Plans Set says "Location of Drivable Dips will be decided by COR after initial excavation." This is outside SOP for linear trail construction.  Are contractors expected to bench and excavate the entire length of tread, wait for the COR and then return to finish final tread work?

     That is correct.  The COR would stake the location of the dips after the clearing, brushing and rough excavation for a section is complete.  The location of the dips was not previously selected so the COR will stake them as the project progresses.

1. Will USFS and ranger district be providing the seed mixture for seeding of trail construction?  Or does the contractor need to procure this specific mixture?

     The contractor will be responsible for purchasing the seed.

1. For planning and estimating purposes, is there an equipment width and weight restriction?  For example, a SWECO would be relatively fast, but is 48" wide and 8-10K lbs.  Can it safely access trail 198?

     There is not a limit on the equipment width or weight, so long as the finished tread is the proper width.  There are a few rocky areas on the upper end of the trail that may be difficult for a SWECO dozer to pass.