36C78618Q9624-002.pdf

WORK PERFORMANCE ATTACHMENTS TO SOLICITATION

Table of Contents Page

ATTACHMENT A - GROUNDS MAINTENANCE: FERTILIZING & WEEDING

ATTACHMENT B - GROUNDS MAINTENANCE: SODDING/SEEDING

ATTACHMENT C - GROUNDS MAINTENANCE: MOWING, TRIMMING & EDGING

ATTACHMENT D - LEAF COLLECTION AND REMOVAL

ATTACHMENT E - PLANT MATERIAL MAINTENANCE

ATTACHMENT F - PRUNING STANDARDS FOR SHADE TREES

ATTACHMENT G - TRASH AND DEBRIS REMOVAL

ATTACHMENT H - SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL

ATTACHMENT I - HEADSTONE MAINTENANCE & CLEANING

ATTACHMENT J - HEADSTONE MAINTENANCE (RAISE, LOWER, REALIGN, RESET)

ATTACHMENT K - REFILLING OF SUNKEN GRAVES AND GROUNDS REPAIR

ATTACHMENT L - GRAVE EXCAVATION, BACKFILL, INTERMENTS, COMMITTAL SERVICE

REPRESENTATIVE

ATTACHMENT M - PLACEMENT OF FLAGS

ATTACHMENT N - JANITORIAL SERVICES

ATTACHMENT O- DIAGRAMS OF GRAVES

ATTACHMENT P - UNDERGROUND SPRINKLER SYSTEMS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE

ATTACHMENT A - GROUNDS MAINTENANCE: FERTILIZING & WEEDING

(CLIN 0002-0008)

GENERAL

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements thereunder.

SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: High maintenance areas have a well-established, healthy stand of turf.

Contractors shall be responsible for maintaining the turf area of the cemetery and the immediate area surroundings of the cemetery in a healthy condition by proper application of fertilizers, chemicals (to control weeds, diseases and insect pests) and lime (if soil tests indicate it is needed). Turf in burial areas should be 90 percent weed free. Pest and disease free turf should cover at least 95 percent of the area. The turf is to be aerated and de-thatched in the spring (March or April). Approximately 18.0 acres of turf will be treated.

EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

The Contractor is to supply all necessary applicators, hoses and other equipment.

Water shall be furnished by the Government at no cost to the Contractor.

The Contractor shall furnish all required chemicals, fertilizers and any other supplies. The Contractor shall determine the necessary formulation of fertilizers and the required amount of lime as indicated by the soil tests. Soil tests are obtained by COR or their representative. Soil samples sent to MS Department of Agriculture for analysis. Copy of results mailed to COR and Contractor. Test results will show any deficiencies and the needed corrections.

PROCEDURE

The Contractor shall be responsible for taking all precautions to prevent damage to the cemetery, in any manner, including headstones, markers, monuments, flower bases, trees and other structures during maintenance operations. The Contractor shall be charged current replacement costs for headstones/markers, other cemetery structures or property damaged as a result of actions by contractor personnel.

Fertilizer:

Fertilizer shall be applied based on the results and recommendations of a soil test for each section. The soil test will be conducted by the Contracting Officer Technical Representative (COR) with a copy provided to the Contractor. Fertilizer will be applied 3 times (spring, mid-summer and fall) each year, unless local practices indicates a more favorable time.

Lime:

When soil tests indicate a need for lime, it shall be applied at the rate indicated in those tests. Time of application shall be in late fall or early winter, unless local practice indicates a more favorable time.

Weed Control

All weed growth and disease shall be controlled by means of mowing, trimming and spray or any other method approved by the COR. All personnel using such sprays shall be properly trained, and the person in charge shall be duly licensed by the State of Mississippi to use pesticides. Treatment for weeds will be accomplished in the spring (March or April) and the fall (Oct. or Nov.) of each year. Turf in high maintenance areas shall be maintained at 90 percent weed free.

Gophers and Moles and any other Pest:

Gophers and moles and any other pest shall be controlled by elimination of their food source through the use of pesticides applied by a licensed applicator. The Contractor shall ensure that soil shall be tamped into holes and turf replaced or reseeded to insure acceptable appearance at all times.

Pesticides and Herbicides

Contractor will keep record of all pesticides/herbicides applied and furnish copy to COR within five working days of application. Records will show type, amount, application area, and weather conditions.

Signs will be posted informing the public that a chemical has been applied (Date and Time of Application).

Turf in high maintenance areas shall be at least 95 percent pest and disease free.

Control of Fire Ants Contractor shall make a weekly inspection for fire ants and will apply necessary chemicals applications to control fire ants. After ants are killed, fire mounds will be leveled. Necessary repairs to turf will be made by Contractor.

Control of Crab Grass The entire cemetery will be treated with sufficient amount of pre-emergence during the month of March to prevent germination of crab grass.

***Contractor will notify Director, Memphis National Cemetery, 72 hours prior to any of the above applications, so that a cemetery representative may be present at the time of application.

ATTACHMENT B - GROUNDS MAINTENANCE: SODDING/SEEDING

(CLIN 0007 and 0008)

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and Contract Documents to Bidders, which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements thereunder.

SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: Turf used shall be compatible with the geographic region and adheres to the Cemetery Master Plan, where applicable. (Guidance from expert sources (e.g. local county agricultural extension agent or arborist, agronomists in Southeast District Offices or landscape architects in NCACO) is adhered to regarding turf selection.

Work consists of sod bed preparation and sodding/seeding of areas of the cemetery where the turf has been disturbed or has died. In particular, all newly dug or refilled graves will need resodding/seeding.

Approximately 400 graves will require resodding/seeding annually. The Contractor shall be responsible for the removal and disposition of dead ground and shall refill the site with quality topsoil and perform the sodding/seeding to include the bare areas to insure a quality turf. Delivery tickets, indicating date, weight, analysis, purity, and vendor's name, etc. are to be submitted to the COR.

***Substitution of sod/seed type, weight or application must be specifically approved by the COR

GUARANTEE

The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing and watering all sodded/seeded areas and maintaining them in a healthy and vigorous condition.

The Contractor shall, at his own expense, replace any sod which has died or been damaged during the establishment period.

Healthy turf shall be re-established within 30 days on all grave re-openers during the growing season.

The contractor shall have all areas of the Cemetery covered with a healthy turf; those areas needing turf will be sodded by the contractor.

Any damages to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds or equipment during grounds maintenance operation shall be reported to the COR as soon as possible.

ATTACHMENT C - GROUNDS MAINTENANCE: MOWING, TRIMMING & EDGING

(CLIN 0001)

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and contract documents which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements thereunder.

SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: Turf shall be maintained at a height within one-inch range of that which is professionally recommended for the recommended grass type for that geographic region.

Optimally, the height is no more than half an inch above that range. Turf surrounding a headstone or marker shall be trimmed to its recommended height. There shall be no signs of "grass burns" caused by mowers. There shall be no signs of turf being "scalped" by string trimmers.

The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing, edging and trimming all grass within the cemetery and outside perimeter enclosure walls as specified by the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR). This encompasses approximately 10 acres.

EQUIPMENT

Riding mowers may be used if they are not operated within six (3) inches of headstones, markers, monuments, tree trunks or other vertical surfaces.

Commercial grade power trimmers and power edger will be used to trim grass from around headstones, monuments, markers, etc. (See TRIMMING below).

Cutting blades on mowing and trimming equipment must be kept sharp so that grass tips are properly cut- -not torn or damaged. Cutting heights of all mowing equipment shall be set according to heights specified below. The height of grass is what is measured to get correct cutting height.

PROCEDURE

Turf shall be cut to maintain heights as set forth below:

Cutting Height, Inches Turf grass Species 2” to 2 ½” Bermuda

Mowing will be inspected by the COR a minimum of once a month. Mowing should be performed often enough so that no more than l /3 of leafage are removed at any one mowing. Turf in burial and public areas should be maintained at a height within one-inch range of that which is professionally recommended for the recommended grass type for that geographic region. Optimally, the height should be no more than half an inch above that range.

TRIMMING: All headstones, markers, fences, walls, drainage ditch, and other similar areas are to be trimmed using a string trimmer. Care should be taken that turf is not scalped. Turf is to be trimmed to the same height as the mowing height. The COR will inspect trimming a minimum of once a month.

All un-mowed grass around headstones, monuments, markers, and other vertical surfaces shall be trimmed to keep the grass at the height standard described in section 4.A and 4.B of the lawn maintenance section of this contract without scalping between stones or around stones.

Grass or unwanted weeds/vegetation in the perimeter brick wall will be removed.

EDGING: All streets, curbs, walkways, tree wells and shrub beds shall be edged inside and outside cemetery grounds as needed to maintain proper appearance. COR will conduct random inspections of edging monthly.

Care and maintenance of shrubs. Shrubs will be trimmed monthly during summer months/growing season.

Shrub trimmings will be removed. Shrub area shall be kept free of shrub trimmings and any other debris.

The walkways, flagpole bases, interment area, and roads will be cleaned up of grass clippings and leaves after mowing, weed-eating, edging, and trimming.

ATTACHMENT D - LEAF COLLECTION AND REMOVAL

(CLIN 0009)

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and Contract Documents to Bidders which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be held responsible for and governed by all the requirements thereunder.

SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: All turf, roadways, sidewalks and committal shelters shall be free of debris (i.e.

leaves, fallen branches and trash).

Work consists of collecting and removing from the cemetery grounds and the immediate area outside the cemetery wall, all fallen leaves and twigs as frequently as necessary to keep a debris free appearance.

Random inspections shall be conducted by the COR a minimum of once a month.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Leaf collection and removal will be accomplished from October 1 through April 30 annually. All fallen leaves must be mulched and/or removed during this period, except when delayed by the onset of severe weather conditions. The Contractor shall schedule removal work accordingly. Excess mulched leaves will be removed from the cemetery.

PROCEDURE

Leaves and twigs will be hand raked, vacuumed or blown by walk-behind push type machines from interment areas into the roadways, and then collected and properly disposed of from cemetery grounds that includes right of way outside cemetery walls. Any accumulation of mulched leaves will be removed from the cemetery.

The Contractor will inspect all areas of the cemetery during this period and ensure that there is no accumulation of leaves in any area.

ATTACHMENT E - PLANT MATERIAL MAINTENANCE

(CLIN 0010 and 0011)

All work performed in this section is subject to the General Requirements and instructions to bidders which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements thereunder.

SCOPE

NCA STANDARD:

• Trees and shrubs are to be maintained in a healthy, vigorous condition free of pests and disease.

• Trees and shrubs shall be trimmed and maintained at a proper size and shape for its particular size and type according to industry standards.

• Trees shall be maintained in a condition free of broken limbs or branches.

• Ornamental trees and shrubs shall be maintained so that they enhance and do not detract from the appearance of public areas.

• Ornamental trees and shrubs shall be pruned in a manner that ensures they do not pose a hazard to staff and visitors.

• Wood land areas are maintained so that they enhance and do not detract from public areas.

• Cemetery planting beds are well maintained and attractive.

• High maintenance areas, in which turf is not a part of the cemetery design, will be maintained in a manner that is appropriate for the medium in place.

Work consists of, but is not limited to, maintaining shrubs and trees in a healthy and attractive condition by proper watering, pruning, removal of dead branches, cultivation and mulching. Notify COR of any pest infestation in trees and obtain further guidance from the COR.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Personnel shall be properly trained in the operations they are to perform. If pesticide sprays are used, the person in direct charge will be licensed by the State.

EQUIPMENT

All necessary equipment for this maintenance performance shall be furnished by the Contractor unless specifically stated otherwise.

All cutting tools will be kept sharp and properly functioning.

Materials for spraying and fertilizing will be supplied by the Contractor and proper records kept in accordance with state regulations.

PROCEDURE

Trees will be kept free of suckers and broken branches.

All cuts will be made according to ANSI A300 Standards.

The saucers (watering basins) around newly planted trees will be kept free of grass and weeds. Shredded pine or fir bark mulch (or equivalent) will be added when required and/or ordered by the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) or his authorized representative. No bark chips or nuggets will be allowed.

All new trees shall be staked (as indicated in Department of Memorial Affairs Standard Specifications -obtained from the COR). Any tree showing adverse effect from high winds will also be staked. Trees, which have been damaged in any way, will be reported to the COR, or his authorized representative. All plant material destroyed by the Contractor will be replaced at Contractor's cost.

Hedges will be trimmed to promote a healthy and attractive appearance and uniform growth over all parts of the plant, with the bottom wider than the top. Hedges and shrubs shall be kept free of dead branches, leaves and all weed growth. Weeds and their root system will be removed.

Beds containing shrubs shall be kept attractive and free of weeds. Any cultivation shall be generally shallow to avoid any damage to roots. Dead or dying plant material shall be reported to the COR.

Replacement plants, if needed, shall be furnished by the COR and planted by the Contractor as funds are available.

All shrubs shall be watered during the growing season to the degree needed to maintain an attractive appearance should natural rainfall fail to provide the moisture needed.

ATTACHMENT F - PRUNING STANDARDS FOR SHADE TREES

(CLIN 0010 and 0011)

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and Instructions to Bidders which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor will be responsible for and governed by all the requirements thereunder.

SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: Trees and shrubs are to be maintained in a healthy, vigorous conditions free of pests and disease. Trees and Shrubs shall be trimmed and maintained at a proper size, form and shape for its particular size and type according to industry standards. Trees shall be maintained in a condition that is free of broken limbs or branches.

Pruning should focus on maintaining tree structure, form, health and appearance by: Removing dead, dying, diseased branches to be provided by the Contractor.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

The types of pruning generally used in the tree industry are as follows: Crown Cleaning, Crown Thinning, Crown Raising, Crown Shaping and Crown Restoration as found in ANSI A300 standards. Contractor is required to maintain trees at a maximum height of 15 feet.

PROCEDURE

CROWN CLEANING

Crown Cleaning shall consist of the selective removal of one or more of the following items: dead, dying, diseased, weak branches and water sprouts from a tree's crown.

CROWN THINNING

Crown Thinning shall consist of the selective removal of branches to increase light penetration, air movement and reduce weight.

CROWN RAISING

Crown Raising shall consist of the removal of the lower branches of a tree in order to provide clearance.

CROWN SHAPING

Crown Shaping reduces the height and/or spread of a tree. Consideration should be given to the ability of a species to sustain this type of pruning.

CROWN RESTORATION

Crown Restoration should improve the structure, form and appearance of trees that have been severely headed, vandalized or storm damage.

METHODS:

When cutting back trees, drop crotch as much as possible and avoid cutting back to small suckers. Remove smaller limbs and twigs in such a manner as to leave the foliage pattern evenly distributed.

In reducing overall size, attention is to be given to symmetrical appearance. The top is to be higher and the sides reduced in order to maintain a tree-like form.

When cutting back trees, one should have in mind to make them shapely and typical of their species.

In lifting the bottom branches of trees for under clearance which should be about fifteen (15) feet, care should be given to symmetrical appearance, and cuts should not be made so large they will prevent normal sap flow. Trim high enough to allow sunlight to penetrate trunk sometime during the day.

In general reduction of size (cutting back or topping) not more than one third of the total area should be reduced in a single operation.

ATTACHMENT G - TRASH AND DEBRIS REMOVAL

(CLIN 0022)

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements to bidders which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements thereunder.

SCOPE

Work consists of collecting and removing all trash, debris, dead or unsightly flowers, tree limbs, as well as any other debris within area defined by the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR), in accordance with the floral regulations of the cemetery.

REQUIREMENTS

All trash, debris, contents of trash cans, dead or unsightly flowers and fallen tree limbs will be removed from the cemetery areas a minimum of once every other day or as necessary.

All grave decorations will be removed once a week or as needed.

The Contractor will provide the necessary labor and suitable conveyance each workday for pickup of this debris from cemetery grounds. Dumpster and pickup services will be provided by Contractor unless otherwise specified by the COR.

Removal of debris and disposal away from the cemetery grounds shall be the responsibility of the Contractor.

All floral arrangements, debris and cone vases shall be removed from gravesites. Floral arrangements and any debris shall be removed when the item becomes unsightly.

Non-floral items such as balloons, flags (except for Memorial Day), lawn ornaments, pictures, and memorabilia will be removed from gravesites when discovered. Items attached to headstone will be removed; if floral in nature, it will be placed at the base of the headstone. Otherwise it will be removed with other non-floral items.

A retaining area will be designated to retain the non-floral items for a period of one month at which time;

they will be disposed of in the dumpster. At no time will the Contractor sell or give away any item taken from the graves.

Cemetery grounds shall be kept free of all leaves and debris including tree limbs up to and including limbs that measure up to 8 inches in diameter. It shall be the responsibility of the contractor to pick-up and remove leaves and debris from the cemetery grounds. Mulching mowers may be used in lieu of pickup and removal so long as the overall appearance meets cemetery standards. All leaves and debris must be disposed in a proper manner adhering to all city, state and federal regulations regarding disposal and recycling.

All walkways, roads, and parking areas will be swept prior to interment services or on a weekly basis.

Storm Clean-Up (wind, rain, hail, snow, ice, etc.): Cemetery Director will be notified immediately of any storm damage to insure appropriate cleanup action is taken by the Contractor. Cemetery should be checked and cleaned up next working day following the storm unless the extent of the storm prompts civil defense authorities to declare emergency movement only. Should this occur, clean up should be done as soon as emergency restrictions are lifted.

Cemetery area includes all of the cemetery property to include surrounding areas of inside and outside the wall to the road.

ATTACHMENT H - SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL

(CLIN 0012)

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and Contract Documents to Bidders which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be held responsible for and governed by all the requirements thereunder.

SCOPE

Work consists of removal of snow and ice from the cemetery driveway, all walkways on the cemetery grounds, all steps to buildings and structures, city sidewalks surrounding the cemetery site, and areas outside the cemetery walls as designated by the Contracting Officer Representative (COR). In the event of an interment during the snow season, the Contractor will be responsible for clearing passages from the roadway to the gravesite.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Snow removal will be accomplished by using a plow attached to a tractor or a self-propelled unit, snow blower or shovel. The tractor or self-propelled unit will be restricted to paved areas.

Ice removal will be accomplished by applying a de-icer. This chemical must be of the type that will not stain or damage carpeting, flooring, turf, shrubbery, trees, walkways and driveways.

Contractor shall take precautions to prevent damage to buildings, roadways, sidewalks, curbing, trees, headstones and markers by equipment used to remove snow and ice. Contractor shall be responsible for repairing any damage caused by equipment in the performance of snow and ice removal. ·

ATTACHMENT I - HEADSTONE MAINTENANCE & CLEANING

(CLIN 0013)

All work performed in this section is subject to the General Requirements and contract documents forming a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements thereunder.

SCOPE

NCA Standard: All headstones shall be clean, free of debris and objectionable accumulations.

Work consists of cleaning all headstones as specified by the Contracting Officers Representative (COR) to remove objectionable material and discoloration, such as accumulations of bird droppings or mud, tire and hose markings, grass stains, residue from trees, fungus, and so forth. There are approximately 7,400 marked gravesites in the National Cemetery.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

All headstones shall be cleaned prior to Memorial Day with a minimal washing of two (2) times a year.

The contractor shall pressure wash sidewalks, curbs, and entrance gate of cemetery. The natural surfaces shall be retained. They shall not be painted, white washed or calcimined. Any headstones that have any dirt splash up or grass debris from mowing/trimming will be promptly cleaned when found.

PROCEDURE

Clean water shall be used to clean headstone. Cleaning techniques with water shall include high pressure spraying, scrubbing and/or rinsing.

When water under pressure is used, the pressure will not exceed 800 psi. Excessive soil may be removed with plain water and a stiff brush (no wire brushes), followed by rinsing with clear water.

If water used in cleaning should soften the soil around the base of the headstone loosening the headstone, care shall be taken not to tip the stone out of plumb or alignment.

Care shall be taken to protect the turf area from any damage. Any turf damaged by the Contractor shall be restored at Contractor's cost.

Abrasive blasting and cleaning solution will not be used except as designated below.

The cleaning product "Daybreak" at 50/50 mix with water, or equivalent approved by the COR prior to use, will be used on all white headstones and markers on the cleanings process each year. Inspections and tracking of results using "Daybreak" on all headstones will be conducted by the COR.

The contractor will report on his weekly performance report to the COR the following:

Number of headstones cleaned: Section Upright, Flat, 6"x6"

ATTACHMENT J - HEADSTONE MAINTENANCE (RAISE, LOWER, REALIGN, RESET)

(CLIN 0015)

The work performed in this section is subject to the General Requirements which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements thereunder.

SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: Proper height and alignment of each headstone or marker is maintained.

Work consists of setting new or replacement headstones and markers on gravesites. Work also consists of raising and realigning existing headstones and markers in the quantity specified in the Contract. It includes reporting physical defects to the Contracting Officer or his authorized representative.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

The type of marker to be used shall be determined by the Contracting Officer Technical Representative (COR) through direction of the National Cemetery Administration, Central Office (in accordance with the general plan of the cemetery). New and replacement headstones and markers shall be installed within ten

(5) days of delivery to the National Cemetery as weather and soil conditions perm it. The contractor shall submit an annual schedule of raising and realignment prior to start of work to the COR. The schedule will be used in performing inspections on raising and realignments. The specific sections and number in each section and type of headstone/marker will be identified to the Contractor by the COR in order to develop the annual schedule.

PROCEDURE, NEW & REPLACEMENT HEADSTONES

The responsibility for ordering headstones, checking for proper wording and initial inspection for damages shall be that of the Contractor.

Headstones are received at the National Cemetery and inspected by the Contractor in accordance with NCA guidelines issued by the Cemetery Director to include condition and inscription.

Headstones and markers shall be erected in appropriate places within ten (10) days of receipt, or if weather or soil conditions prohibit this time frame, as soon as practicable after receipt.

In transporting or storage of headstones, they shall be protected from the weather to avoid damage or staining from crating materials. Each stone shall be placed so as to rest on its long edge in a vertical freestanding position for easy accessibility. Where there is a shortage of storage space and there is a wall or other substantial support at the storage area, the headstones may be stored by resting on their bottom edge and leaning against the wall at a safe and stable angle. Several stones may be stacked against the first stone to conserve space with proper separation in all cases. The COR shall designate a suitable area for storage of the stones at Corinth National Cemetery.

If there is any breakage or damage in any form due to the Contractor's handling or negligence, the cost for replacement will be borne by the Contractor.

Initial inspection will be accomplished by the Contractor upon receipt. Defective headstones will not be set. Replacement stones will be ordered by Memphis National Cemetery.

Any breakage or damage to headstones and markers, whether that of the shipping company, of the

Contractor, or of other parties will be reported to the Cemetery Director immediately.

Upright headstones for individual graves shall be erected on the centerline at the head of the grave with the inscription facing the grave. They shall be set plumb and aligned laterally, transversely, and diagonally with the headstones on other graves. The RIGHT side of the headstone facing the inscription will be the alignment side. The BACK of the headstone will be the alignment side. Measurements shall be taken from the section layout control points and not from headstones previously set.

New and replacement headstones in old sections of National Cemeteries where such stones have not been and cannot be set at the standard height shall be set at the same distance above the ground as the adjacent headstones, provided they can be set with the inscription above the ground level. In new sections of National Cemeteries, all upright headstones shall be set at a height of 24 inches from the finished grave to the top of the arc. Where headstones have been previously set at other heights above grade, but in general, at a uniform height throughout an area, and otherwise present a neat overall appearance with the inscription visible, resetting for the sole purpose of attaining the stated height is not necessary. The nominal height of 24 inches given for the current standard of headstone setting is the standard height. Minor deviations in the less than nominal height are permissible to provide a uniform appearance in the top line to compensate for slight ground rises or depression within a burial section.

In raising/realignment projects the height of the headstone will be 24 inches (22 inches for older Civil War style) extending from the soil level to the top of the arc on the headstone. Where a considerable number of adjacent stones are set or reset in a section, and ground conditions are known to require an allowance for vertical settlement, an extra inch may be permissible in the above ground projection when the stone is initially set. In irregular terrain where sloping and uneven ground conditions exist, all headstones and markers will be set at proper heights and levels to provide a flowing transition through uneven terrain.

Placement of flat markers on individual gravesites will be installed with the top edge flush with the head of the gravesite. Install markers at grade level with the face of the marker parallel to the ground. If ground conditions are known to require an allowance for settlement, markers may be installed with a gravel base and will be level with ground. The height must permit passage of lawn mowing equipment without damage to the markers.

At the commencement of the contract, all unset headstones on station will be set and existing headstones and markers will be reset and aligned in the number specified in the contract. The Contractor will submit a schedule designating sections and quantity to the COR for approval to insure completion of required number in contract year. The COR will inspect to insure completion and correctness of the section.

Trees or shrubs obstructing headstones shall be noted and the COR shall determine remedial action and any modification needed for installation of a headstone.

Headstones shall be lifted and transported or set by at least two (2) people unless special one-person devices are approved. Realignment, when consisting merely of straightening the headstone, may be accomplished by one person.

Older headstones will be realigned laterally, transversely and diagonally in the same manner as new markers.

Damaged headstones and headstones that are replaced will be, upon receipt of the new headstones, destroyed by the Contractor by means of breaking the headstone with a maul or sledge hammer.

Inscription on the stone will be obliterated. Resultant debris will be removed from the cemetery grounds.

Cemetery contract personnel are responsible for the unloading of headstones from the delivery truck. The shipping delivery ticket will be provided to the Cemetery Director within three business days of receipt.

Fax copies are acceptable.

The contractor will report on his weekly performance report to the COR the following:

1. Number of headstones/markers received and date received: Upright, Flat, Date Received

2. N umber of headstones set and what section: Upright, Flat, Section

3. N umber of headstones raised/realigned and section: Upright, Flat, 6"x6" Section

If there is a problem with realigning a specific headstone, a report will be sent to the COR providing a detailed explanation, the reasons the headstone was not realigned.

ATTACHMENT K - REFILLING OF SUNKEN GRAVES AND GROUNDS REPAIR

(CLIN 0014)

SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: The grading of every gravesite blends in with adjacent grade levels.

Work consists of refilling sunken graves with suitable soil to match existing adjacent graves approximately 400 per year. The cemetery will be checked for holes and washouts and will be filled immediately.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

A sunken grave is defined as any gravesite that has receded two (2) inches from the existing adjacent grade.

Standard graves excavated and backfilled are approximately three and one-half feet wide and approximately eight feet long. The Contractor will identify sunken graves requiring repair.

Refilling of sunken graves will be accomplished as soon as practicable.

PROCEDURE

Sunken graves will be filled with approved select backfill and tamped to within two (2) inches of established grade. Topsoil will be added to bring the gravesite to established grade. The disturbed area will then be raked free of stones and any debris larger than one (l) inch measured in any direction. The area will then be sodded as specified. (See Lawn Maintenance: Sodding/Seeding). When possible, sod should be removed and replaced. Area should be tamped level after filling the hole.

ATTACHMENT L - GRAVE EXCAVATION, BACKFILL, INTERMENTS, COMMITTAL

SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

(CLIN 0017 and 0018)

Any/all work done in this section is subject to the General Requirements that form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements thereunder.

SCOPE

Work consists of excavation, backfilling and preparing for interments specified by the Contracting Officer Representative (COR). There will be approximately 70 casketed and 10 cremains interments per year. The COR or representative will notify the Contractor 24 hours in advance of gravesite to be opened. Normally interments will be accomplished Monday through Friday during hours of 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. However, there may be instances where the Contractor will be required to perform interments on weekends and/or holidays and outside the regular hours.

PROCEDURE

All gravesite excavations, casket or cremains, will be completed within a minimum of one hour prior to the interment service. If an outer container is to be used, the gravesite excavation will be completed to allow the vault to be pre-set in the grave one hour and fifteen minutes prior to the service. All gravesites will be ready for viewing by the next of kin within one and one-half hours after the interment service.

It shall be the COR's responsibility to notify the Contractor of any underground utilities in the vicinity of gravesite excavation.

Graves will measure 5' x 10' unless otherwise advised by the COR and shall be excavated to five (5) feet or seven (7) feet, depending on the number of interments. Graves for cremated remains will be approximately 18 inches square and (3) three feet deep. The COR shall advise the Contractor of the required depth, and position prior to any excavation operation. Contractor should probe all full interments prior to excavation to assure adequate depth for 2nd interment. COR should be notified immediately of insufficient depth to accomplish interment.

When a grave is opened to receive a second interment and is found to be of insufficient depth to permit interment, due to a vault not being deep enough, the remains of the first interment shall be removed and the grave excavated to a depth to accommodate both interments. Arrangement and payment for disinterment of the vault of the first decedent is the COR's responsibility.

Excavating the grave to a greater depth to accommodate the second interment is the responsibility of the contractor; and is considered as a part of the regular grave excavation price. COR or his representative will be present and will be responsible for insuring the gravesite is deepened to accommodate both interments.

The gravesite will be screened from the public view during the removal and re-interment of any remains.

Sod should be removed from the gravesite prior to excavation and shall be reused on the gravesite. Any excess backfill shall be hauled and dumped. Sod will be cut 4" minimum deep to keep roots healthy.

When a grave is opened, the Contractor is responsible for removing any headstone needed to ensure access for the vault and the remains and subsequently replaced.

The Contractor will transfer the remains in a dignified manner from the interment shelter to the proper gravesite following all NCA policies. The Contractor will be required to lower casketed remains as well as any Government liner into gravesite with a mechanical lowering device in a safe and efficient manner, with dignity, and without damage to casket. When a private vault/liner is used, the Contractor will be present at the gravesite and will supervise the setting of the vault/liner and the placement of the casket and the lowering of the vault/liner into the grave.

All caskets will be marked with a tag furnished by the Government and attached at the head of the casket.

All vaults and liners will be tagged with the same information and attached at the head end of the vault/liner. Indelible marking pens will be used to write the information on the tags. Tags will be written in a legible manner.

All cremated remains will be marked with a tag furnished by the Government and attached securely to the container to assure it will remain when the interment is completed. When a vault/liner is used for the cremated remains, the vault/liner will be tagged with the same information and attached securely to the vault/liner. Indelible marking pens will be used to write the information on the tags. Tags will be written in a legible manner.

Backfill material surrounding the liner/container will be sufficiently pliable to allow voids to be filled for more solid compaction to reduce subsequent ground settlement. Backfill shall be brought to established grade in one (I) foot lifts. Each lift shall be thoroughly compacted by means of an approved mechanical or hand tamper. Backfill should not be mounded, but should conform to existing grades. The contractor will remove all unusable dirt, rocks, roots and other types of objects from the cemetery grounds.

If excavation is five feet deep or deeper, a worker is prohibited from entering into the hole until the sides of the grave are shored in a safe manner in accordance with OSHA standards.

If the grave has an existing headstone, it shall be removed and carefully placed in an area near the gravesite and covered with proper protection. The headstone will be replaced after the grave is backfilled. The headstone at the foot of the grave may also need to be removed and replaced during the interment.

A temporary marker for the first and subsequent interments will be centered at the head of the grave in line with existing headstones or directly in front of existing headstone. The temporary marker card will be given to the Contractor by the Memphis National Cemetery. The Contractor will place the card/information into the temporary marker holder. The temporary marker will be placed at the grave by the Contractor or his/her representative. Contractor is responsible for keeping an ample supply of VA furnished temporary grave markers on hand. After each use temporary markers will be cleaned and painted if necessary.

After backfilling is complete and compacted, the remaining two inches will be filled with topsoil and the sod will be replaced and tamped to ground level. Grass seed and fertilizer are to be applied to each gravesite with the sod upon closing of grave. The sod will be thoroughly watered every few days for two weeks thus reestablishing sod.

All floral bouquets and arrangements left at the gravesite by the funeral party will be neatly arranged upon the grave and removed within three days or when they become unsightly.

See attached sheet for gravesite diagram and handling of multiple interments.

The Contractor will arrange 10 chairs with covers at the interment shelter. Area around interment shelter will be cleaned and shelter will be clean, free of, webs and any other dirt or debris.

Contractor will cover all open graves with plywood or other appropriate materials when unattended.

Contractor will insure no visitors are within 100 feet of interment operations.

The Contractor will lower United States flag to half-staff one hour before the first interment service.

Contractor will raise United States flag to full staff one hour after the last interment service has been completed and all family members have departed.

No grave will be pre-dug the day before a scheduled interment. Any exceptions must be authorized by

COR.

DIAGRAM "D." The conditions shown in "D" will occur only rarely, and usually when the minor dependents predecease their parents or in extremely rare cases when an accident takes the lives of a family group.

DIAGRAM "E." When the remains are in a small casket, they will be placed in the lower corner of the gravesite, at a depth of 5 feet, permitting room for an additional like burial at the head of the first at a depth of 7 feet and the second at five feet.

When it is necessary to make side-by-side burials in a single gravesite, extreme care will be exercised to accurately locate the sideline of the site. Where a burial vault is used in such cases, it may be necessary to encroach several inches on adjacent site(s). This is permissible provided the site encroached upon has been or will be utilized as shown in "A" or "B".

Unusual conditions may require occasional deviations from the methods indicated. For cases not covered herein, the Contractor will consult with the COR for advice on determination of action to be taken.

Appropriate personal protective equipment will be issued by the Contractor to his/her employees in accordance with applicable OSHA and National Cemetery Administration standards and will be worn as needed in performing tasks.

Equipment will be operated and maintained in good working conditions. Equipment will be operated by personnel trained in its operation to include safety precautions. Contractor will conduct safety training in equipment and operations as needed.

ATTACHMENT M - PLACEMENT OF FLAGS

(CLIN 0020 and 0021)

A small flag will be placed on each gravesite not more than three (3) days prior to Memorial Day (Scouts and other volunteer organizations may assist the Contractor) and will be removed on the first workday following Memorial Day, weather permitting. Volunteer organizations traditionally place these flags on the Saturday prior to the Memorial Day ceremony. Flags will be counted, bundled into bundles of 10 and placed back in storage. The Government will furnish flags and storage space for the flags.

On Memorial Day, the Contractor shall furnish the following services:

The United States Flag will be flown at half-staff from 8:00 a.m. until 12 noon, when it will be raised to full staff.

The Avenue of Flags will be in place by 8:00 a.m. on Memorial Day and removed the following workday or as soon as weather permits.

Contractor will set up equipment to include PA system, chairs, cones and other items needed for all services for Memorial Day. COR will set time for this action to begin and be finished.

Contractor will be available on day of Memorial Day ceremony to assist in ceremonial set up and take down and in assisting visitors with grave locations.

On Veteran's Day, the Contractor shall furnish the following service:

The Avenue of Flags will be in place by 8:00 a.m. on Veteran's Day and removed the following day or as soon as weather permits.

ATTACHMENT N - JANITORIAL SERVICES

(CLIN 0022)

All work performed under this section shall be subject to the General Requirements and Contract Documents to Bidders which form a part of these specifications, and the contractor shall be held responsible for and governed by all the requirements there under. All equipment and supplies shall be provided by the contractor.

SCOPE

Work shall consist of cleaning, sanitizing and maintaining public restroom, break room, maintenance buildings and interment shelter at the Corinth National Cemetery.

GENERAL REOUIREMENTS: The contractor shall

A. Empty, clean and sanitize all trash cans daily.

B. Remove all dirt, debris, urine, feces and water from all floor surfaces.

C. Clean, sanitize and wipe all sinks and counter tops to remove all excess standing water.

D. Clean all glass and stainless steel surfaces with an appropriate glass/stainless steel cleaner so that the surface is free of grease, dirt and smudge marks daily or as instructed by the COR.

E. Clean and sanitize all toilets daily.

F. Mop floors three times per week with a disinfecting cleaning solution. Wax if appropriate once monthly.

G. Maintain an adequate supply of toilet paper, paper towels and soap on a daily basis so that there is always a roll on the dispensers and one back-up roll available for restroom.

H. Clean the Maintenance building daily to ensure all areas are free of litter, dirt, dust and debris and all supplies and equipment shall be kept in an organized manor. The use of a power blower inside any building shall not be authorized.

I. Complete a public restroom daily checklist and send the daily checklist to the COR no later than the following Monday.

ATTACHMENT O- DIAGRAMS OF GRAVES

ATTACHMENT P - UNDERGROUND SPRINKLER SYSTEMS INSPECTION AND

MAINTENANCE

(CLIN 0019)

GENERAL

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and Contract Documents to bidders which for a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all requirements there under.

Work consist of periodic inspection and minor maintenance of the installed sprinkler system.

DESCRIPTION

The work specified herein shall be provided to facilitate the successful and ongoing operation of an automatically controlled underground landscape irrigation system, including sprinkler heads and accessible field wiring. Buried and inaccessible system piping and wiring, while not specifically excluded, are not included under the inspection and maintenance requirements of this document.

INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE

Troubleshooting and repair service includes emergency callback service, periodic inspections and preventative maintenance of all above ground irrigation system control devices. The contractor shall be required to perform the following:

1. Underground Irrigation Systems with Stand-Alone Controllers

a. Provide monthly examination of irrigation system by walking site and performing a thorough inspection of grounds and irrigation components.

b. During each inspection, prepare a list of all trouble spots and problem issues that are visibly identifiable. In addition, review system operation to determine and record additional issues experienced during daily operation that may not be readily observable.

c. Verify operation of all irrigation valves and spray devices by manually running each station on each controller.

d. When necessary, adjust spray devices to assure proper spray pattern and radius of water pattern.

e. When necessary, repair or replace broken or malfunctioning spray devices.

f. If installed, verify that all flow sensors are operating properly. Recalibrate as required to meet manufacturer’s recommendations.

g. If installed, verify that all system master valves are operating properly. Perform preventative maintenance service to valves to meet manufacturer’s recommendations.

h. As required, clean all filtering devices on irrigation system, including but not limited to mainline filters, drip line filter and spray head filter devices.

i. At least once annually, test all controller grounding for proper resistance according to equipment manufacture’s recommendation. Provide written report detailing grounding resistance for each controller, highlighting deficient ground locations and notifying cemetery director and/or COR of required action.

j. Where site conditions require, provide annual Spring Start-Up and Winterization service for the entire irrigation system.

2. Underground Irrigation Systems with Computer-based Central Control

a. Perform all system inspection and maintenance tasks as outlined in the previous section for

Underground Irrigation Systems with Stand-Alone Controllers.

b. Check software event logs to verify system has been operating properly. Adjust program settings in the software and make required program modifications to respond to site issues or problems as necessary.

c. Verify communication is intact between Central Control computer and all field controller devices. Check program schedules for proper operation and adjust if necessary.

d. Verify system back-up function is programmed and working properly. Perform system back-up, provide back-up storage device to cemetery director and/or COR for safe storage in remote locations.

e. Verify all field controllers have back-up programs, adjust programs as necessary to allow for changing site…