Contracting Officer's Representative (COR)

The contracting officer's representative (COR) is designated by the contracting officer (CO) to administer the contract within the representative's designated authority and limitations. Refer to the Forest Service Handbook 6309.11.04.4 WO Amendment 6309.11-91-1 (or future updates) for a full description of the responsibilities of a COR. The COR must be trained and certified in accordance with the requirements of Department Regulation 5001-1 (DR5001-1) and the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and be designated by the CO. COR training teaches contract authorities, documentation, and administrative techniques. It does not teach students how to inspect tree planting. The CORs must have experience in planting inspection to assure they are providing the appropriate technical expertise.

Tree planting requires ongoing intensive contract administration because the trees are perishable and the favorable period for tree planting is brief. The COR must assure that the tree care, the planting itself, plot inspections, work progress, and the contractor’s quality control are consistent with the contract and the contractor’s approved work plan. The COR keeps the CO and the contractor informed of progress and contract compliance, and of any noncompliance issues. The COR may use the Work Orders and Notice of Noncompliance or similar forms as tools to communicate in writing with the contractor. The CO will work with the contractor and the COR to correct noncompliance issues especially when tree survival is at stake.

The COR will maintain daily diaries on the project. The diaries are the record of contract progress and compliance, including records of tree issuance and documentation of material issued to and received from the contractor. The COR’s designated inspector may assist with these responsibilities. The COR will provide an evaluation of the contractor’s performance to the CO. All documentation and conversations must deal only with facts concerning the contract. They must be complete and unbiased, because the CO will use them to make further decisions on contract issues.