DOI - Azotea Drop Structures Cultural Resouces Survey - MRAS

The Department of the Interior (DOI), through the General Services Administration (GSA), is conducting market research to identify qualified contractors for a cultural resource survey related to the Azotea drop structures located in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico. This initiative is part of the larger San Juan Chama Project, which dates back to the late 1960s and early 1970s. The goal is to replace four drop structures at the outlet and downstream of the Azotea Tunnel, situated on lands owned by the Jicarilla Apache Nation. Close cooperation with the Jicarilla Apache Nation will be essential for the project's success due to its impact on historic structures.

The scope of work requires a cultural resource contractor who meets at least the Secretary of Interior's Standards for archaeology and historic architectural documentation. The contractor will be responsible for reviewing archaeological and historic resources within a one-mile radius of the project area using existing records from both ARMS and JANTHPO. Additionally, they must document these resources comprehensively, including maps and photographs, on Historic Properties Inventory forms. This documentation will serve as a basis for recommending mitigation strategies under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.

A significant component of this undertaking involves performing a "HAER Lite" analysis on the four drop structures as part of Reclamation's mitigation strategy. This analysis must be conducted by an Architectural Historian who meets specific professional standards. Unlike full HAER documentation, "HAER Lite" does not require large format photography but does necessitate high-quality digital photographs along with detailed reports that adhere to guidelines set forth by both Reclamation and JANTHPO.

To ensure quality performance from contractors, a Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) has been established by Reclamation. This plan outlines procedures for evaluating contractor performance against set standards throughout project execution. The QASP facilitates early identification and resolution of any performance issues while ensuring that all actions align with contractual obligations as assessed through CPARS (Contractor's Performance Assessment Reporting System). The ultimate goal is to achieve successful completion while maintaining open communication between all stakeholders involved.