1305M326Q0400_Q_A_08132026_0001.docx

LANDSCAPE SERVICES AT NWS - ST. CHARLES, MO

1305M326Q0400

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q1. Option Period of Performance and Timeline Discrepancies (SOW Page 8 / CAR 1352.270-70)

· The introductory text of SOW Section 09 states that "each option has a 12-month contract period, with a 7-month period of performance" and that "no work is performed November through March of each year." This 5-month non-service window implies active performance runs from April 1 to October 31 (7 months).

· However, the SOW table on Page 8 and CAR 1352.270-70 list the Work Start Date for Options 1–3 as March 1, which represents an 8-month active performance window. Please clarify if active on-site services are required to begin on March 1 (an 8-month performance window) or April 1 (a 7-month performance window).

· Additionally, the SOW table lists the Work End Date for Option Period 3 as "October 31, 2030," while listing the Contract End Date as "February 28, 2030." This creates a chronological impossibility where work is scheduled 8 months after contract expiration. Please confirm the correct Work End Date and Contract End Date for Option Period 3.

A1. Here are the dates (It is an 8 month performance window, not 7, as incorrectly listed):

The base period of performance of this contract is from Date of Award through 02/28/2027 (services are only provided from Date of Award-10/31/2026) Option Period 1 for a twelve month period 03/01/2027 through 02/29/2028. (Services are only provided from 03/01/2027-10/31/2027) Option Period 2 for a twelve month period 03/01/2028 through 02/28/2029. (Services are only provided from 03/01/2028-10/31/2028) Option Period 3 for a twelve month period 03/01/2029 through 02/28/2030. (Services are only provided from 03/01/2029-10/31/2029)

Q2. Sprinkler System Maintenance vs. Repair Scope (SOW Section 12)

· The SOW states that the Contractor is responsible for standard maintenance (activation, winterization, and backflow testing) while "repairs to the system will be addressed separate from this award."

· Please clarify what constitutes the dividing line between standard maintenance and a separate repair. Specifically, are the costs of any replacement parts or materials identified during spring activation or winterization (e.g., replacement nozzles, sprinkler heads, fittings, or valves) covered under the firm-fixed-price of this contract, or will they be reimbursed separately?

A2. Repairs/replacement parts to the sprinkler system will be handled separately outside of this award.

Q3. Fertilization Frequency and Material Specifications (SOW Section 11, paragraph f)

· Section 11 states the contractor must fertilize to maintain healthy turf, and the sample schedule depicts a single fertilization application in a month. To ensure equitable pricing among all bidders, please clarify the minimum annual frequency of fertilizer applications required by the government and if there are specific chemical or organic material specifications.

A3. Per the Statement of Work, you will develop a reasonable fertilizer treatment schedule necessary to maintain a well-manicured appearance. You will adhere to all relevant clauses that pertain to fertilizers.

Q4. Security Suitability Processing Timelines and Mobilization (CAR 1352.237-71)

· CAR 1352.237-71 requires all proposed personnel to undergo background checks (SAC or NACI) and fingerprinting before being eligible to perform on-site work.

· Given the short turnaround between award and performance, what is the estimated processing timeline for these suitability checks?

· If clearances are pending at contract start, will the government allow contractor personnel to perform work under an escort, or must all personnel have fully adjudicated suitability determinations before entering the property?

A4. Upon consultation with the Program Office, they don’t feel that it is needed so this clause will be removed from the award.

Q5. Facility Site Access Outside of Business Hours

· The approved hours for these services are Monday through Friday after 5:00 PM, or anytime on Saturdays and Sundays. The SOW also requires the contractor to check in with a designated NWS representative upon arrival.

· Since work will occur outside normal business hours, will NWS personnel be present on-site during these times to facilitate check-ins and gate access? If not, will the contractor be issued physical keys, electronic access badges, or security gate codes to independently access the exterior grounds?

A5. The Statement of Work has been updated to read: “The hours approved for these services are to be mutually agreed upon between the selected contractor and the MIC.” Hours will need to be chosen that do not have a negative impact on staff and surrounding neighbors of the facility.

This is a 24/7/365 facility. There is no gate upon entrance. The Contractor can enter the premises at will and then can check in at the front desk upon arrival.

Q6. Green and Biobased Products Self-Certification (SF-18 Continuation Sheet, Page 2)

· Page 2 of the SF-18 continuation sheet requires the quoter to initial and/or add documentation certifying that the products utilized will be green/environmental.

· Please clarify if initialing this block on page 2 of the SF-18 is sufficient for proposal submission, or if bidders must attach physical USDA BioPreferred or EPA environmental manufacturer data sheets with their technical quote.

A6. Initials on the SF18 are sufficient for proposal submission.