C05_Attachment 5 RFI Questions and Answers Amendment 0003.pdf

1. Discrepancy in Hardscaping Requirements: Attachment 2 (Site Plan) identifies a "Waupun Stone Bench (~18" Ht.)". However, SOW Section 3.2 (Description of Services) does not include the procurement or installation of a bench as a specific task. Please clarify if the stone bench is a required deliverable and, if so, provide a specific quantity.

The Waupun Stone Bench is meant as a decorative boulder that is flat on top and could be used as a bench. It is considered as part of the other Waupun boulders used for decoration.

As specified in Attachment A, there should be two (2) Waupun boulder benches (boulders upon which one could sit comfortably), 18" high and 18- 24 in wide and approximately 4 feet long.

2. Plant Quantities and Sizes: SOW Section 3.2.6 states the Contractor shall install plants according to the "quantities listed in Attachment A". While Attachment 2 (Site Plan) identifies species types, it does not provide a specific bill of materials or quantities for the perennials and grasses. To ensure price realism among all offerors, will the Government provide a quantified plant list or a required spacing density for the beds?

See below:

3. Technical Specifications for Stone Wall: SOW Section 3.2.7 describes a "dry stack wall" but lacks specific construction details. Attachment 2 (Section View) provides high-detail requirements, including 4" perforated drain tile, Mirafi geotextile, and a 6"+ crushed limestone base. Please confirm that the detailed drainage and base requirements shown in the Section View are mandatory performance standards for the dry stack wall.

Yes, the aforementioned details are mandatory performance standards for the dry stack wall.

4. Decorative Boulder Specifications: SOW Section 3.2.4 requires the Contractor to provide "decorative boulders" but does not specify the quantity, approximate weight, or dimensions required. Please provide the total number of boulders required and their estimated size/weight class to allow for accurate material and logistics pricing.

Decorative Boulders (not part of the wall) should be at least, but not limited to, approximately 1 foot tall by 2 feet wide by 2 foot long. It is our hope that the contractor will use their artistic judgement in selecting boulders for decoration, following our aforementioned requirements.

5. Performance Period vs. Background Checks: SOW Section 5.0 mandates a performance period of 45 calendar days. SOW Section 4.0 and FAR 52.204-9 require Government-facilitated background checks for all personnel. Does the 45-day period of performance begin only after personnel have successfully cleared background vetting, or does the clock start immediately upon award?

The 45-day period of performance period begins only after personnel have successfully cleared background vetting.

6. Watering and Establishment Standards: SOW Section 3.2.6 requires "initial watering". Please define the duration of this requirement (e.g., a one-time event upon installation or a specific establishment period such as 30 days) to ensure the 1-year plant warranty is appropriately supported by initial care.

One-time event upon installation.

7. Mulch Color and Grade: SOW Section 3.2.3 specifies "double-shredded hardwood mulch", while the Site Plan specifically identifies "Brown Wood Mulch". Please confirm if a specific color (e.g., dark brown/chocolate) is required or if natural, undyed double-shredded hardwood is acceptable.

Both natural, undyed double-shredded bark and dark brown/chocolate double-shredded bark, are acceptable.