36C78621Q0004 Alton NC Scope of work.pdf

36C78621Q0004 Statement of Work

GRAVE EXCAVATION AND BACKFILL

I.

Any and all work done 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 there under.

2. SCOPE

Work consists of excavating and back-filling approximately three (3) gravesites per year, 2 Casketed Remains and l Cremated Remains. The Director will notify the contractor 24 hours in advance of gravesites to be opened.

3. PROCEDURE

A. All gravesite excavations shall be completed with a minimum of two hours prior to the interment service, and back-filled within one hour after the interment service.

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

C. Graves will measure 5' x 10' unless otherwise advised by the Cemetery Administrator and shall be excavated to five

(5) feet or seven (7) feet, depending on the number of interments. Graves to receive cremated remains shall be 18" wide x 18" long x 3' deep. The Cemetery Administrator shall advise the Contractor of the required depth, width and length prior to any excavation operation or whether the interment will be side-by-side.

D. When a grave is opened to receive a second interment and is found to be of insufficient depth to permit the second interment, the remains of the first interment shall be removed and the grave and deepened to accommodate both interments. The gravesite will be screened from the public view during the removal and re-interment of any remains.

E. Sod will be removed from the gravesite prior to excavation and shall be reused on the gravesite. Additional seeding may be required around the grave site and headstone to ensure complete grass coverage. Any excess back-fill shall be hauled and dumped off cemetery grounds. After backfilling is complete the soil surface will be thoroughly wetted, starter fertilizer applied, sod laid and fanned over the grave, and then thoroughly watered. Sod will be watered thoroughly and frequently enough to maintain it in a green and healthy condition, as applicable to the season, until it is fully reestablished.

F. When a grave is opened by the Contractor using power equipment and it is necessary to remove the headstone, it will be done by the Contractor and subsequently replaced.

Back-fill shall be brought to established grade in one (I) foot lifts. Each lift shall be thoroughly compacted by means of a mechanical or hand tamper. Care shall be taken to fill and compact all voids surrounding the burial case in order to reduce subsequent ground settlement. Back-fill should not be mounded but conform to existing grades.

G.

H. If the 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 and acceptable method.

If grave has existing headstone, it shall be removed and carefully placed in an area near the gravesite and covered with a mound cover or grass greens and replaced after the grave is back-filled and the temporary maker for the second interment be placed in the center of the grave and the headstone.

J. After back-filling is complete and sod is replaced, sod should be watered thoroughly after replacement.

K. Trucks used in backfill operations shall be no larger than one and a half ton. Preferably Toro Truckster or similar vehicle should be used to prevent damage going to and from graves to be opened. All graves damaged must be repaired at no cost to Government within 24 hours. Please note there are some areas a one and a half ton truck cannot enter due to burial pattern necessitating the use of smaller utility vehicles.

L. The temporary marker shall be placed at the grave by the Cemetery Administrator or his representative.

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

N. Contractor shall use a casket carrier (Church Cart) or a cremation stand for interment services.

0. Contractor is to furnish and set up greens, chapel tent, casket lowering device, and approximately 12 chairs for each interment service.

P Contractor will be required to provide a covered vehicle to transport remains form the service area to the grave site. The Contractor will transport the remains from the interment shelter to the gravesite in a dignified manner. This will assist in ensuring that the interment is completed in an honorable and dignified manner.

Q. The Contractor will be required to lower remains into gravesite using an approved lowering device provided by the cemetery. The rate of lowering shall be slow and steady in order to be honorable and dignified. The casket position will be level at all times while lowering.

R. All flowers will be moved from the interment shelter to the gravesite by the Contractor and arranged neatly (stacking or piling is prohibited) upon the gravesite. All floral bouquets, arrangements, etc., left at the gravesite by the funeral party will be neatly arranged upon the grave.

(ll;'CTIOH Of£. WTCI\.WEHT ut S:t.'fGLC

vc. ri.lLL s:a..E C&..5"E-

TKREE IUTCIU.tEHTs" I« © ooueLC DEl"'Tt< CiftA.VE..

,;rr;;,-7"-:;t-:;.,t-;;,--,'-::,-,,.,.;,ar T-

'Ci' "c:-o,::cTfON

-J\ IICTL "'-CH":"$ OC ·00<.1:a C.

OlV... :!...

IIUTTI.A.L 1.UTCf\1..tENT (c«U..O) PLAN

I. Single burial when no future interment is expected. The burial is made in the center of the site at a depth of 5 feet.

2. Burial of two remains as in the case of a service-connected person and spouse. The first interment is made in the center of the site at a depth of 7 feet. When the second interment is made, the grave will be reopened to a depth approximately 1 feet from the top of the first casket, leaving a thin layer of earth between the two.

3. If, at the time of the second, it is expected that a third interment will be made, the second remains will be placed at the extreme edge of the site, leaving room for the third at the opposite side. In the infrequent case when a third interment is found necessary after two burials have been made, the grave will be opened sufficiently to permit moving the No. 2 interment to the side to provide for the 3rd burial.

4. When the remains are in a small casket, they will be placed in the lower corner of the grave site, at a 5 foot depth, permitting room for additional like burial at the head of the first. The two adults would be buried on the other side, the first at 7 foot, and the second at five feet.

5. When it is necessary to make side-by-side burials in a single grave site, 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). ".

6. Unusual conditions may require occasional deviations from the methods indicated. For cases not covered herein which cannot be satisfactorily resolved locally, contractor will consult with the Contracting Officer or his representative, for advice on determination of action to be taken.

NOTE: EQUIPMENT ACCESS ROUTES INTO ALL BURIAL SECTION AREAS WILL BE COVERED WITH 4X8

SHEETS OF ¾" TO 1" THICK MARINE EXTERIOR GRADE PLYWOOD BOARDING OVER THE TURF,

WHETHER 1" OR 2"' INTERMENTS, IN ORDER TO PROTECT TURF. This plywood boarding will be placed and removed on the same day that the interment occurs. Boarding is also required on the route of travel to any burial area that has an established turf for l ' st and 2nd ' interments.

HEADSTONE MAINTENANCE & CLEANING

I.

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 there under.

2. SCOPE

Work consists of cleaning all headstones to remove objectionable material and discoloration, such accumulations of bird droppings or mud, tire and hose markings, grass stains, residue from trees, fungus, and so forth. Each headstone shall be cleaned annually, prior to Memorial Day. The estimated number of headstones, to be cleaned annually, prior to Memorial Day, is estimated to be in the range of 550.

3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

All headstones shall be cleaned a minimum of once a year prior to Memorial Day. The natural services shall be retained.

They shall not be painted, white washed or calcimined.

4.

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

B. When water under pressure is used, the pressure will not exceed 500 psi. Excessive soil may be removed with plain water and a stiff brush (no wire brushes), followed by rinsing with clear water.

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

D. 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.

E. After cleaning as described above, all headstones will be sprayed with the chemical cleaning product D2 or weatherzyme; it is not to be washed off. The contractor shall submit proposed cleaning product to the COTR for approval before use. Maintain MSDS sheet for this at the jobsite at all times while this work is in progress

HEADSTONE SETTING & REALIGNMENT

1. GENERAL

All 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 there under.

2. SCOPE

Work consists of setting new or replacement headstones on gravesites and resetting or realigning those already in place that have shifted out of vertical or horizontal alignment. It includes reporting physical defects to the Contracting Officer or his authorized representative, attaching metallic plaques to concrete bases (where these are used) and assuring accurate placement on gravesites. Approximately 3 new headstones will be set annually. Approximately 250 headstones will require realignment annually.

3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

The type of marker to be used shall be determined by the Cemetery Administrator through direction of the Cemetery Service, Central Officer (in accordance with the general plan of the cemetery). Headstones shall be installed within two

(2) days of delivery to the cemetery.

4. PROCEDURE, NEW & REPLACEMENT HEADSTONES

A. The responsibility for ordering headstones, receiving them in shipment, checking for proper wording and initial inspection for damages shall be that of the Cemetery Administrator or his authorized representative.

B. Headstones and markers shall be erected in appropriate places within 10 days 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 preferably 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. 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. The cemetery shall designate a suitable area for storage of the stones after initial inspection has been accomplished.

C. 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.

Measurements shall be taken from the selection layout monumentation 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. To align headstones, the 3-string method (top, side and back) shall be used, whether for raise and realignment or installing new headstones. COTR will instruct contractor in the use of this method. Headstones will be installed to a precision alignment of within J/8" tolerance of all string lines. 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 unnecessary. 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 is permissible to provide a uniform appearance in the top line to compensate for slight ground rises or depression within a burial section. 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. At the commencement of the contract, all headstones on station will be set.

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

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

F. Damaged headstones and replacement headstones ordered will be, upon receipt of the new headstones, destroyed by the Contractor by means of breaking the headstone with a maul or sledgehammer. Resultant debris will be removed from the cemetery grounds. The headstone will be destroyed so that the inscription is illegible.

G. All headstones and markers shall be guaranteed for 90 days not to sink or tilt.

5. PROCEDURE - RAISE AND REALIGN EXISTING UPRIGHT HEADSTONES

A. Contractor shall furnish all tools, materials, equipment, labor and supervision necessary to raise and realign upright headstone markers in the Alton National Cemetery.

B. All upright headstones will be set at a normal height of24 inches from grade to top of arch. 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 appearance with the inscription visible, resetting for the sole purpose of attaining a stated height will not be required. The normal height of 24 inches given for the current standard of headstone setting is the average height. Minor deviations in the less than nominal height are permissible to provide a fair and pleasing top line and to compensate for slight ground rises and depressions within a burial section.

C. Only one headstone shall be removed at a time and adjusted then reset. The ground around the stone shall be tamped so as the stone is firmly set.

D. To align headstones, the 3 string method (top, front and back) shall be used, whether for raise and realignment or installing new headstones. COR will instruct contractor in the use of this method. Headstones will be installed to a precision alignment of within 1/8" tolerance of all string lines. A heavy string or line must run along the back of these key stones. This line is marked with the proper measurement - (size of section) for the section being aligned. All remaining headstones in the row are then aligned along the string front to back and side-to-side even with the measured mark on the line. Each headstone is leveled front to back and side-to-side keeping the back of the headstone along the string and the side of the headstone along the measured mark. Each headstone is also raised or lowered as necessary to ensure a uniform measurement of 24 inches above ground level. Different size headstone will be required different heights. To raise a headstone, remove it from the socket and add granular material such as finely crushed limestone or limestone and sand mix. The granular material must be tamped firmly to achieve a solid base and measured. When the headstone is replaced in the socket, it should end up the required measurement of 24 inches above ground level. The headstone is then aligned along the string front to back and side-to-side even with the measured mark on the line. The headstone is leveled front to back and side-to-side keeping the back of headstone along the string and the side of the headstone along the measured mar. To lower a headstone, the headstone is removed from the socket and the empty socket is dug out to the proper depth. The bottom of the socket is tamped to provide a solid base at the proper measurement so that when the headstone is placed into the socket, it is the proper height of 24 inches for the section. The headstone should then be aligned and leveled using the line along the back of the row of headstones and the measure mark on the line. Granular material is then put around the headstone and firmly tamped in a three (3) inch thick layer to within three (3) inches of surface. Last three (3) inches to be compacted to soil.

E. The alignment of the headstones should be checked frequently during this process because the tamping may move the headstone out of level or off the mark on the line.

F. Sometimes headstones may be set in a depression sunken grave and must be raised to the required height on either side.

This can be accomplished by using a top line as shown below.

G. This process of raising and realigning is repeated for each row of headstones. As the granular material is tamped around each raised and realigned headstone, the depression will be refilled with soil and tamped. Also, granular material will be needed for the raising process. After stone is properly raised and realigned and filled around, specific grass seed will be placed around the stone.

H. Any upright headstones broken or damaged by the Contractor shall be reported to the Cemetery Administrator or designee by close of business each working day in order that the grave can be properly marked. The Contractor shall be responsible for the cost of the headstone replacement. Any grid or sectional monuments disturbed, displaced, or broken shall be replaced by the Contractor at his cost. All monuments disturbed, etc., shall be properly reset by a licensed land surveyor at Contractor's expense. Any irrigation lines, risers, controller valves or standpipes damaged or broken by the Contractor shall be replaced by the Contractor at his cost. Curbs, walks, trees and utilities existing above and below the ground that are damaged or disturbed by the Contractor shall be repaired at the expense of the Contractor.

I. All headstones and markers shall be guaranteed for 90 days not to sink or tilt.

6. Fine tune and alignment.

A

_Contractor shall align each row of stones. Using strings, bump sticks, and levels to achieve a straight row and plumb at 90 degree in both directions.

String lines for alignment should be on the back side of the headstones.

Bump sticks must be wood so as not to damage the headstones.

B.

C.

6.1 Procedure.

A.

B.

_Identify the row to be aligned.

Adjust the first stone to 90 degrees x 90 degrees, move down the row 10 to 12 stones and adjust this stone. Continue this process to the end of the row. These will be known as "Key Stones".

Attach string lines from Key Stones to Key Stones using the back of the stone for the string line.

Adjust each headstone between the Key Stones, check for 90 x 90 degree finished product. Securely tamp each stone adjusted.

Any headstone that will not align at 90 degree x 90 degree may need to be adjusted according to the Raise and Realign guidance in this contract.

C.

D.

E.

LAWN MAINTENANCE: FERTILIZING. WEEDING

I. GENERAL

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

2. SCOPE

A. Contractors shall be responsible for maintaining the turf area 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). The turf is to be core aerated in September. Dethatching, if needed, will be done in September prior to core aeration, fertilization, and overseeing. Turf to be fertilized in late May, early September, and early November at a rate of 1.0 pound of Nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. The fertilizer shall have an approximate N:P:K ratio of 4:l :2, with 30-60% of the nitrogen in slow or controlled release form. Any fertilizer left on roadways or walks is to be swept or blown onto turf or a landscape bed to prevent washing of fertilizer into storm drains.

3. EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

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

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

C. The Contractor shall furnish all required chemicals, fertilizers and any other supplies. The COTR shall determine the necessary formulation of fertilizers and the required amount of lime as indicated by the soil tests.

4. PROCEDURE

A. The Contractor shall be responsible for taking all precautions to prevent damage to the cemetery, in any manner, including headstones, markers, monuments, flower vases, 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.

B. Weed and Disease Control: Turf weeds and disease shall be controlled by means of spray or any other method approved by the COTR. All personnel using such sprays shall be properly trained, and the person in charge shall be duly licensed by the State of Illinois to use pesticides.

( l) Herbicide treatments for broadleaf weed control will be applied in April and October or November of each year. Spot treatment of individual escaped or late emerging broadleaf weeds will be done as needed through the growing season (usually needed at least once per month) to maintain the cemetery in a generally weed-free condition.

(2) Control of crabgrass: Two pre-emergence herbicide treatments for control of annual grasses (crabgrass) shall be applied annually, the first in early April with a second in early June, unless directed otherwise by the COTR. Rates will be sufficient to prevent crabgrass growth throughout the growing season. Care must be taken, especially with the early application, to not treat newly seeded areas or graves (or areas or graves to be seeded within 3 months, unless the topsoil will be replaced) because the herbicide will prevent growth of young turf grass as well as weedy grasses.

C. Gophers and moles and any other pest shall be controlled by means of poison baits, gas, traps, or any other approved methods. This is to be accomplished by duly licensed individuals. The Contractor shall insure that soil shall be tamped into holes and turf replaced or re-seeded to insure acceptable appearance at all times.

LAWN MAINTENANCE: SEEDING

1.GENERAL

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 there under.

2. SCOPE

Work consists of seedbed preparation and seeding of areas of the cemetery where the turf has been disturbed or has died.

In particular, all newly dug or refilled graves that have not had sod installed successfully will need reseeding.

3.

A. General

(1) All materials are to conform to those specified below, unless otherwise specifically approved in writing by the Administrator.

(2) Specified materials are to be applied in amounts and methods herein stipulated.

(3) Delivery tickets, indicating date, weight, analysis, and vendor's name, etc. shall be submitted to the COTR.

E. Grass seed shall be a fresh new crop seed complying with purity and germination requirements stipulated herein.

Grass Seed Mix to approximate the following:

% Germination Kind of

% by Weight % Purity

Turf-Type Tall Fescue 50 95-98 85 or more

Perennial Ryegrass 50 95-98 85 or more

Only strains of grass seed that have been adapted in the State of Illinois and certified by the State Agronomy Testing Laboratory will be accepted. Any substitution of seed type, weight or application must be specifically approved by the Cemetery Administrator in writing. Seed to be free of any noxious weeds.

C. Mulch is to consist of erosion control blankets (turf matting) designed to aid in grass establishment. Cured and chopped straw, free of sticks, stones, weeds and or any other foreign material, may be used as an alternative if approved by the COTR. Mulch will be black in color.

D. Fertilizer for seedbed preparation is to be standard turf starter fertilizer with a relatively high P content (such as 12-25-

10) applied at 5-8 lbs of fertilizer per 1000 square feet.

E. Lime shall be ground, or pellet limestone composed predominately of calcium carbonate with not less than 1% magnesium, in compliance with the State of Illinois Agricultural Standards.

4. SOIL PREPARATION

A. An area to be seeded shall have a minimum of two (2) inches of topsoil placed on it and be prepared for seeding by bringing ground surface to adjacent grades, (with allowances for sod thickness, where applicable) free of sticks, stones, or other foreign material over one (1) inch in any dimension. Surface to conform to finish grade, free of water retaining depressions, soil friable, free of clumps and of uniform fine texture.

B. If topsoil pH is below 6.0 then ground limestone is to be added sufficient to bring the pH up to 6.5, based on soil tests.

Cemetery administration is responsible for testing soil already at the cemetery, the contractor is responsible for testing any soil brought into the cemetery (and providing the test results to the COTR). Lime is to be spread uniformly over the area(s) to be seeded.

C. Fertilizer - After limestone has been spread, the starter fertilizer shall be spread on the soil surface at a rate to provide

1.0 lb. of nitrogen per 1000 square feet (for a 12-25-10 fertilizer that would be 8 lbs. of fertilizer per 1000 square feet). Fertilizer shall be spread with approved equipment and at an even rate over the area to be seeded.

D. Work limestone and fertilizer into entire depth of topsoil and grade to smooth surface ready for seeding.

E. Additional starter fertilizer (at one half the rate specified in above) shall be applied to the finished soil surface.

5. SEEDING

A. All areas to be seeded at rate 8-10 lbs. per 1000 square feet.

B. Seed shall be uniformly distributed by a hand broadcast drill, cyclone spreader, or other approved methods. Seed shall be rolled into the soil immediately after spreading.

C. Seeding shall take place when needed.

D. No seeding is to be done during windy weather or when ground is wet or otherwise non-

E. MULCHING

(I) All seeded areas shall be mulched immediately following seeding. Erosion control blankets designed for grass germination and growth are preferred, but if they contain netting they shall be carefully removed when the grass begins to grow through them. Timing of matting removal will be after a good grass stand has been established but before the matting becomes so entangled by the new grass as to make removal difficult. If proper care is taken, the matting can be reused. Chopped straw is alternative mulch. If used, straw is to be applied at a uniform rate so as to provide a loose depth of covering thin enough to expose 25% of the soil, yet reduce washing of seed and soil, 1 bale of straw per 1,000 sq. feet of seeded area.

F. Irrigation: Newly seeded graves or other areas are to be kept moist to facilitate optimum germination and growth of the new grass.

G. Areas of the cemetery where turf is weak, spotty, or thin (such as 5% or more soil visible) shall be slit seeded in September soon after core aeration. The COTR may designate areas to be slit seeded.

6. GUARANTEE.

The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing and watering all seeded areas and maintaining them in a healthy and vigorous condition. Mowing should be often enough so that no more than 1/3 of the grass height is removed at any one mowing. The Contractor shall, at his own expense, reseed areas where grass which has died or been damaged during the establishment period.

LAWNS MAINTENANCE: MOWING, TRIMMING AND EDGING

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 there under.

2. SCOPE

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 Technical Representative (COTR). This encompasses approximately 1.5 acres.

3.

A. Riding mowers may be used provided that they are not operated within six (6) inches of headstones, markers, monuments, tree trunks or other vertical surfaces. The type and size of mowers utilized must not cause ruts to appear in gravesites.

B. Walk behind, push type machines, hand-held weed whips or trimming shears will be used to trim grass from around headstones, monuments, markers, etc. (See TRIMMING below).

C. 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 under

PROCEDURES.

4.

Turf shall be mowed and trimmed to a height of 3.0 inches, with no more than 1/3 of the grass height removed at any mowing.

Areas of the grass not to be mowed will be delineated by the Cemetery Administrator or COTR. A plan shall be furnished by the Cemetery Administrator.

A. MOWING:

(I) The contractor shall begin mowing turf in the spring as conditions allow and continue through the entire growing season, with the final mowing to occur as seasonal grass-growth stops in the fall (as directed by the COTR). The first seasonal mowing should occur as early spring green up is apparent and grass height reaches four inches. Turf areas consist of blends and mixtures of cool-season grasses, but also contains patches of less desirable Bermuda grass. The contractor shall meet the proper maintenance requirements for cool-season grasses.

(2) If any mowing event results in clumps of grass clippings lying on the turf grass, the Contractor will immediately remove or disperse those clippings so that the clumps are no longer visible. Any clippings deposited on sidewalks, roadways, headstones or markers, or other non-turf grass areas will be removed the same day as the mowing event that produced them.

(3) Do not mow new sod, new seed, and grass matted areas with riding mowers until they have become established turf.

When grass in these areas gets tall enough to need mowing it shall be carefully mowed with a push mower at 3.0 inches until sod is established well enough to support riding mowers without damage to the grass or soil surface.

(4) Contractor shall be familiar with and use different mowing patterns. Changing direction and patterns reduces turf wear providing a cleaner cut.

(5) The contractor shall take the utmost care not to damage headstones, markers floral or commemorative items, structures, survey monuments, irrigation equipment, etc. while performing mowing services.

(6) The Contractor will remove and replace all floral or commemorative items, etc. to their proper place while performing mowing services. The Contractor shall repair or replace all damaged items caused by the Contractor at no additional cost to the cemetery as deemed by the COTR.

B.

All streets, curbs, walkways, tree wells and shrub beds shall be edged a minimum of once monthly and within two (2) weeks prior to Easter, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Veterans Day.

C.

The Contractor will trim all standard turf grass areas that cannot be maintained by traditional mowing equipment.

Trimming will be accomplished with hand held devices that will cut the grass at the same height (3.0 inches) as the mowed areas. Care must be taken to trim grass no shorter than mowing height - scalping must be avoided. Trimming will be accomplished in the same frequency as the mowed areas. Trimming will occur around all individual upright headstones and flat granite makers, as well as at all other locations of grass area edges that cannot be maintained at 3.0" height through use of mowing equipment. Care should be taken to avoid contact with headstones, makers, monuments, building walls, trees, shrubs, flowers, any other desirable plant materials, etc. or any other structure than can be damaged by contact with the trimming device's cutting instrument. All clippings resulting from the trimming operation will be kept on mowed turf grass areas only.

LEAF COLLECTION

I.GENERAL

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 there under.

2. SCOPE

Work consists of shredding with a mulching mower or collecting and removing from the cemetery grounds and the immediate area outside the cemetery wall all fallen tree leaves.

3. GENERAL

Fallen leaves will be shredded or collected and removed weekly beginning September 15, except when delayed by severe weather conditions.

4. PROCEDURE

A. Beginning in Fall (16 weeks) when leaves begin falling, the Contractor shall deal with fallen leaves by either shredding them in place with a mulching style lawn mower or completely removing them from the cemetery.

(I) 1f shredded, the remaining leaf remnants must be smaller than dime-sized and sift down into the turf, allowing about one half inch of grass to still be seen and be exposed to the sunlight.

(2) If the layer of leaves is too heavy to allow grass exposure after shredding then the leaves may be more widely dispersed prior to shredding, or may be completely removed.

(3) Leaves to be removed 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.

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

C. Large tractor drawn or self-propelled leaf collection units will be restricted to paved areas or to open underdeveloped and/or un-interred areas.

REFILLING SUNKEN GRAVES

1.

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 there under.

2. SCOPE

Work consists of refilling sunken graves with suitable soil to match existing adjacent graves approximately 50 per year.

3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

A. A sunken grave is defined as any gravesite that has receded three (3) inches from the existing adjacent grade. Standard graves dug and back-filled are approximately three and one-half feet wide and approximately eight (8) feet long. The Contractor will identify sunken graves requiring repair.

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

4. PROCEDURE

Sunken graves will be filled with topsoil and compacted to match established grade. The disturbed area will then be raked free of stones and any debris larger than one (I) inch measured in any direction. The area will then be seeded or re-sodded as specified. Sunken graves with established sod will be leveled by removing existing sod, compacting the existing fill that sank, backfilling the grave, and replacing the sod that was removed, if sod is healthy and vigorous. If sod is not practicable, and when approved by the COTR, proper preparation and seeding is acceptable, with starter fertilizer required as well. Erosion control blankets (turf matting) will be used as mulch over the seeded surface, and will be cut squarely to provide a neat appearance. If seeding does not take, then sod will be installed in the proper season at no additional cost to the government. Installed sod and seeded areas must be kept moist until they are well established.

PLANT MATERIAL MAINTENANCE

I.GENERA

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 there under.

2. SCOPE

Work consists of but not limited to, maintaining shrubs and trees in a healthy and attractive condition by proper watering, fertilizing, pruning, spraying for pests, cultivation and mulching.

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.

4. EQUIPMENT

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

B. All cutting tools will be kept sharp and properly functioning.

C. Materials for spraying and fertilizing will be supplied by the Contractor.

5.

A. Trees will be kept free of suckers. Low-hanging dead and broken branches (ones that can be SAFELY removed with a pole pruner or from a step ladder) will be removed. All cuts will be made cleanly. Cuts for limb or branch removal will be made just outside the branch-bark collar (without cutting into the collar or leaving stubs) to minimize wound closure time by the tree. All limbs one inch in diameter or over must be precut to prevent splitting. Branches 3.5 inches or larger in diameter should be lowered by ropes to the ground. Any structural weakness, decayed trunk of branches, split crotches, or branches will be reported. Wound dressings are not to be used except on oak wounds that are made in the spring and summer (to reduce spread of oak wilt disease).

B. Mulch around trees and in other beds will be maintained continuously in an attractive 3-4" thick layer. Mulch will be dark brown and beds constructed so as to be aesthetically pleasing to the eye of the public and maintained free of weeds, sticks, stones, clippings and other foreign material. Mulch shall be pulled back 2-3" from the trunks of trees (to reduce pest damage potential and to prevent constant bark wetness) then sloped up to the 3-4" depth.

Fresh, dark mulch will be added two weeks before Memorial Day and/or as required by the COR. Contractor will provide all materials. No bark chips or nuggets or rubber mulch will be allowed. Mulch rings around trees should extend 2-3 feet from the trunks, with the size of the ring somewhat relative to the size of the tree.

C. The saucers (watering basins) around young trees will be kept free of grass and weeds. Dark brown mulch will be added when required and/or ordered by the Contracting Officer's Technical Representative (COTR) or his authorized representative. No bark chips or rubber mulch.

D. Trees which have been damaged in any way will be reported to the COTR or his authorized representative, and treated appropriately to achieve best appearance and to minimize chances for pest infection. All plant material destroyed by the Contractor will be replaced at Contractor's cost.

E. 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 and leaves.

F. Beds containing shrubs, ground cover and annual or perennial flowers shall be kept attractive and free of weeds.

Any cultivation shall be generally shallow to avoid any damage to roots. Pre-emergence herbicides may be used if compatible with the plants in the beds and if authorized by the COTR. Dead or dying plant material shall be reported to the COTR. Replacement plants, if needed, shall be furnished by the COTR and planted by the Contractor as funds are available.

G. All shrubs, ground cover and bedding plants 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.

H. Fertilization of trees and shrubs (whether in turf areas or in their own beds) will be done at the same time and with the same fertilizer (and at the same rate) used for turf fertilization. However, if the turf fertilizer contains broadleaf herbicide then a fertilizer without broadleaf herbicide shall be used in the shrub and landscape beds.

Surface application of the fertilizer to the soil is adequate for application. Any fertilizer granules remaining on foliage of ornamentals shall be thoroughly brushed or washed off immediately after application. Any fertilizer left on roadways or walks is to be swept or blown onto turf or a landscape bed to prevent washing of fertilizer into storm drains.

TRASH AND DEBRIS REMOVAL

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 there under.

2. 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 Technical Representative (COTR), in accordance with the floral regulations of the cemetery.

3. REQUIREMENTS

A. All trash, debris, contents of trashcans, 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.

B. All grave decorations will be removed twice a month or as needed.

C. The Contractor will provide the necessary labor and suitable conveyance each workday for pickup of this debris from cemetery grounds.

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

SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL

I.GENERA

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 there under.

2. SCOPE

Work consists of removing of snow and ice from the cemetery, entrance, 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's Technical Representative (COTR). In the event of an interment during the snow season, the Contractor will be responsible for clearing passages from the roadway to the gravesite.

A. Snow removal will be accomplished after an accumulative depth of two (2) inches and within four (4) hours of the snowfall Monday through Friday and within an eight (8) hour period on weekends and holidays.

B. Ice removal will be accomplished immediately upon icing conditions.

4. PROCEDURE

A. 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.

B. 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.

PLACEMENT/REMOVAL OF FLAGS

I. A small flag will be placed on each gravesite not more than three (3) days prior to Memorial Day (Boy Scouts and other volunteer organizations may assist the Contractor) and will be removed on the first workday following Memorial Day, weather permitting. 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.

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

A. 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.

B. The Avenue of Flags (if flown) will be in place by 8:00 a.m. on Memorial Day and removed by 7:00 p.m. the same day.

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

The Avenue of Flags (if flown) will be in place by 8:00 am. On Veteran's Day and removed by 7:00 p.m. the same day.