36C78621Q0073_1.docx

36C78621Q0073

PAGE 1 OF

1. REQUISITION NO.

2. CONTRACT NO.

3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE DATE

4. ORDER NO.

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

6. SOLICITATION ISSUE DATE

a. NAME

b. TELEPHONE NO. (No Collect Calls)

8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL

TIME

9. ISSUED BY

CODE

10. THIS ACQUISITION IS

UNRESTRICTED OR

SET ASIDE:

% FOR:

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

8(A)

NAICS:

SIZE STANDARD:

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ

IFB

RFP

15. DELIVER TO

CODE

16. ADMINISTERED BY

CODE

17a. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

CODE

FACILITY CODE

18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

CODE

TELEPHONE NO.

DUNS:

DUNS+4:

PHONE:

FAX:

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER 18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

ITEM NO.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

QUANTITY

UNIT

UNIT PRICE

AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only) 27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

ARE

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA

ARE

ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN _______________

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. ___________________________________ OFFER

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND

DATED ________________________________. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION

DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY

(BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE

ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED

SET FORTH HEREIN IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER) 30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (TYPE OR PRINT) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (TYPE OR PRINT) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

(REV. 2/2012)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

36C78621Q0073 01-20-2021 David Boyd 317-916-3006 02-19-2021

2:00 PM

EST

36C786 Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services 18434 Joplin Road Triangle

VA

22172 X X 561730 $8 Million N/A X

36C786 Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services 18434 Joplin Road Triangle

VA

22172 http://www.tungsten-network.com/customer -campaigns/veterans-affairs/

1-877-752-0900 See CONTINUATION Page Great Lakes National Cemetery - Turf Maintenance Services This request for quote is for the services outlined in the statement of work. Successful offers will result in a firm-fixed price contract with a base year and four (4) options.

Offers must include: Complete pricing submission; Technical proposal; and Three (3) past performance questionaires.

The tentative date of award is: 3/1/2021 Site visit: 10:00 AM EST on 2/2/2021. See instructions below Questions due: 2:00 PM EST on 2/9/2021.

Offers shall be submitted via email by the time and date specified in block 8.

Contracting point of contact: David Boyd David.Boyd7@va.gov See CONTINUATION Page X X Site Visit Instructions

A guided site visit is being offered to interested parties. The purpose of the site visit is to allow potential respondents to gain a better understanding of the requirement.

All participants must comply with cemetery protocol regarding COVID-19. Masks are required and must be worn, covering both nose and mouth. Participants must practice social distancing by maintaining at least Six (6) feet distance from others.

Start time: 10:00AM EST Date: February 2, 2021 Location: Great Lakes National Cemetery 4200 Belford Rd, Holly MI 48442 Building number 3003 (the maintenance building) Cemetery staff will meet participants in the maintenance yard to give preliminary instructions, before conducting the site visit. Participants will provide their name and the name of their company to cemetery staff for the sign in sheet.

Questions must be submitted to the Contracting Officer via email by February 9, 2021 at 2:00 PM EST. Answers will be provided via an amendment to the solicitation.

Contracting Officer:

David Boyd David.Boyd7@va.gov

Table of Contents

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

1. Contract Administration: All contract administration matters will be handled by the following individuals:

b. GOVERNMENT: Contracting Officer 36C786 Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services 18434 Joplin Road Triangle VA 22172

2. CONTRACTOR REMITTANCE ADDRESS: All payments by the Government to the contractor will be made in accordance with:

3. INVOICES: Invoices shall be submitted in arrears:

4. GOVERNMENT INVOICE ADDRESS: All Invoices from the contractor shall be submitted electronically in accordance with VAAR Clause 852.232-72 Electronic Submission of Payment Requests.

http://www.tungsten-network.com/customer -campaigns/veterans-affairs/

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS: The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the Solicitation numbered and dated as follows:

36C78621Q0073

Page 1 of Page 1 of

BACKGROUND:

(a) The Department of Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration, honors Veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our nation. There are approximately 131 National Cemeteries in 39 states that receive visitors, hold ceremonies and conduct committal services on an ongoing basis. Because of the special significance and attention our National Cemeteries receive from the public, strict adherence to the following specifications is essential. (b) National cemeteries are a resting place for our nation's heroes and as such, the standards for management, maintenance and appearance of these cemeteries have been established by the National Cemetery Administration to reflect this nation's concern and respect for those interred there. (c) Great Lakes National Cemetery (GLNC) is a National Shrine. The standards of maintenance and appearance at this cemetery must reflect this nation's concern for those interred there. The cemetery is classified as an “open cemetery”, meaning grave space is available for the first interment of casketed and/or cremated remains. The cemetery is an active cemetery. In addition, the cemetery will conduct several memorial services; have approximately 30,000 annual visitors and 5000 participants and visitors for ceremonial activities.

(d) The overall responsibility of the contractor is to plan, coordinate, organize, interact, manage, control and perform the activities described herein, which are required to conduct select cemetery operations and maintain an acceptable appearance of the cemetery grounds based on predicated economic, ecological and social consequences. All work will be coordinated with COR prior to performance.

PLACE OF PERFORMANCE:

(a) Location, size and services required for the cemetery are as follows:

(See General Requirements) Turf Maintenance / Grounds Care / Remains Transportation

Scope of work:

(1) Storage facilities will be provided for equipment or supplies on cemetery grounds in an Area Dimensions are 18’3”x 10’7”x 12’

(2) Work consists of shrub/tree management, tree removal/replacement, leaf removal, broadleaf herbicide application, pre-emergence herbicide application, fertilization, mulching, weeding, soil testing, fungicide and insecticide applications.

(3) All work described herein are estimated quantities and may be adjusted depending on need and/or at the discretion of the COR/designee.

(4) All dates in all the following requirements are for approximate dates only. The COR/designee will make the determination of when each line item of this contract will be performed.

Turf Maintenance:

(a) The contractor will be responsible for maintaining the turf area of the cemetery in a healthy and vigorous condition.

(b) EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES:

1. The contractor will supply all necessary applicators, hoses and other equipment.

2. Water will be provided to the contractor by the cemetery at no charge to the contractor.

3. The contractor will furnish all required supplies necessary in the performance of the contract. The kinds/types of products to be used are set forth later in this specification. Some items contained in this contract may require special ordering by the contractor. The contractor should plan accordingly to allow for delivery lead times or specified/required items.

4. Contractor will not operate motorized equipment on turfed areas except for the application purpose of chemicals or approved by the COR/designee. Contractor equipment or vehicles are prohibited from parking in front of any burial section at any time.

5. When turf conditions are wet or muddy, contractor will check with COR before taking equipment onto turf areas.

Contract Line Items (CLIN)/Deliverables:

CLIN 0001 - Shrub/Tree Management/Perimeter Vegetation/ Tree Removal. (Approx 772+ trees)

(a) Work consists of tree/shrub limb removal and/or pruning, tree/shrub removal, hedge trimming and perimeter vegetation management. Application and maintenance/repair schedules will be coordinated with COR. A. The contractor will limb, hedge and/or prune:

1. Remove dead or dying branches injured by disease, insect infestation, animals, storms or mechanical damage. Remove any branches that have weak crotches, are crossing or rubbing one another, or are growing back towards the center of the tree.

2. Remove tree limbs that interfere with sunlight and mowing/trimming equipment. Gradually remove lower branches on younger deciduous trees to raise their crown. Evergreen trees, however, generally look best with their lowest branches allowed to drape to ground level. If it is necessary to remove lower evergreen branches for safety or other practical reasons, remove no more that the lowest 25% of branches.

3. Remove/Trim vegetation in all flower beds as needed throughout the cemetery.

4. Twice (2) times each year, based on industry standards for each species of vegetation and at the discretion of the COR/designee. Work will be completed in April, July or as directed by the COR/designee. All work will be scheduled with COR/designee prior to commencing.

B. The contractor will maintain perimeter vegetation management:

1. Estimated three (3) times each contract year, based upon vegetation growth and at the discretion of the COR/designee. Work will be completed in April, July and October or as directed by the COR/designee.

2. Border between the turf and the naturalized areas around the cemetery must be distinct. The goal is to prevent encroachment of outside vegetation into the turf and prevent the edges of the naturalized areas from becoming excessively overgrown with weeds and brush that would be visually distracting from the beauty and dignity of the cemetery.

3. “Cemetery Vehicles Only” roads that are used for cemetery operations must be clear of encroachment of outside vegetation into roads and prevent the edges of the naturalized areas from becoming excessively overgrown with weeds and brush preventing clear passage for cemetery vehicles and equipment.

4. All work will be scheduled with COR/designee prior to commencing.

CLIN 0002 - Leaf Removal 1.) Contractor will be responsible for bi-weekly removal of all leaves around buildings, committal shelters, columbarium’s, flower bed areas and as needed per COR/designee:

a.) During the fall as scheduled by the COR/designee from October through April.

b.) End of winter/beginning of spring of each contract year 2.) Specifically, when leaves begin to drop, several cycles may be required for the entire cemetery until weather conditions prevent leaf pick up i.e. snow fall and freezing.

3.) Leaf removal will be coordinated and scheduled by COR and will be determined at the COR’s discretion. COR/designee will notify contractor when to start leaf pickups and the cycle will continue until notified by COR/designee to stop bi-weekly leaf pickups.

4.) Leaves will be removed from cemetery grounds. Leaves are not to be blown back into the tree line.

5.) All areas around Committal shelters, must be completed by 0900 and ready for services.

6.) All buildings will have the gutters free and clear of debris. (Public Information Center, All Committal Shelters, Administration Building, All Maintenance/Equipment Storage buildings)

CLIN 0003 - Broadleaf Herbicide Application

Herbicides for broadleaf weed control shall be sprayed by a licensed commercial applicator when weeds are actively growing, and weather is conducive to effective weed control. Product label directions are the law and must be followed. Rate of each product shall be that recommended on the product label to control broadleaf weeds present in the cemetery, including common turf weeds such as dandelion, clover, plantains, knotweeds, and black medic. Work is to be performed during the hours of 8:00am and 4:30pm, Monday through Friday, unless arranged otherwise with COR/designee. No work will be performed on Federal Government Holidays. All burial and administrative areas of the cemetery shall be treated, approximately 80 acres, unless the COR/designee specifies certain sections or parts of sections that are not to be treated. To schedule an application the contractor must coordinate the date and time with the COR at 248-328-0386.

Preparation of the spray mixture may be done on site, and VA will provide water for mixing. Contractor shall provide SDS documents prior to or at time of application.

(a) The entire cemetery will be sprayed with broadleaf herbicide twice a year: once in the spring before May 15; then again in October. The First application will be applied when dandelions are flowering, and weeds are actively growing as directed by the COR/designee. Treatment must occur before weeds produce seeds. The second application should be completed as directed by the COR/designee. Recently seeded grass areas should not be sprayed until the seedling grass has been mowed twice.

1. The product used and rate will be sufficient to control the broadleaf weeds present without injuring trees or other landscape plants.

2. Broadleaf herbicide must contain at least 3 active ingredients (such as Trimec types).

3. Work will be coordinated and scheduled with COR and will be determined at the COR’s discretion.

4. The contractor will be responsible for spot spraying any additional weeds in between Broadleaf applications if weeds were to appear at no additional cost to the government.

5. Contractor shall post signs at each section indicating a spray operation is ongoing or recently completed, and any restrictions as indicated by herbicide label.

CLIN 0004 - Pre-Emergence Herbicide Application

(a) The entire turf area and all Bed areas (Mulch and Gravel) of the cemetery will be treated with a pre-emergence herbicide application twice a year. One application will be applied late April/early May at the discretion of the COR/designee and should be applied only when soil temperature reaches 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees C). Second application will be applied late-June or at the discretion of the COR.

1. The pre-emergence herbicide must be applied at a labeled rate sufficient to kill germinating crabgrass for 10-12 weeks.

2. Work will be coordinated and scheduled with COR and will be determined at the COR’s discretion.

3. Dithiopyr (e.g., Dimension, or equivalent) pre-emergence herbicide shall be uniformly applied (approximately 75 acres)

4. Rate shall be 0.25 pound of active ingredient per acre at each application.

5. If fertilizer is used as a carrier for the dithiopyr, the fertilizer shall contain no iron or phosphorous, and the nitrogen rate should not be above 0.5 pounds per 1000 square feet.

6. Pre-emergent such as Snapshot shall be used in all mulch and gravel areas

CLIN 0005 - Granular Fertilizer Application

Fertilizer shall be uniformly applied to all turf area (approximately 80. acres) at Great lakes National Cemetery at approximately:

1. June 1

2. September 1

1. October 15 Rate shall be 1.0 pound of nitrogen per 1000 square feet at each application. Fertilizer shall be applied with a properly adjusted and calibrated spreader. Overlap of spread pattern from adjacent passed shall be adequate to endure uniform application. Streaks appearing in turf any time during the year as a result of non-uniform application are not acceptable. Fertilizer deposited on impervious surface (walks/pavement) shall be removed or blown onto the turf immediately following application.

If weather conditions warrant, such as severe drought or extended wet conditions, applications can be delayed until conditions are suitable, with concurrence of the COR/designee, but may not be made to frozen soil.

The fertilizer shall have the following properties:

1. The nitrogen (N) content shall be 15% or more.

2. 50% or more of the nitrogen in the fertilizer shall be in a slow or controlled-release form - (e.g., sulfur coated, polymer coated, urea-form, isobutylidene diurea, etc.).

3. It shall contain no phosphorous (P) (in compliance with Michigan law).

4. Potash (K) content percentage shall be one third or more of the N percentage (e.g., 15-05, - 21-0-7, 21-0-10, 30-0-15 would all be acceptable).

5. It shall contain no iron (to prevent headstone staining).

CLIN 0006 - Mulching (Trees and Planting Beds) (Approx 20,452 SF)

1. Mulching will be applied once to all trees, signs, and flower bed areas. Mulching will be completed 7-14 days before Memorial Day. Additional mulching will be done as needed through the rest of the season and requested by COR/designee. Dates will be determined by the COR/designee. Dark brown triple ground mulch, or close variant will be used. COR/designee will approve mulch to be used.

2. Mulching will be required one (1) time a year at the COR’s direction around all trees within the developed areas of the cemetery applied at a depth of 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) with depth diminishing up to the tree so as to not be piled against the base (trunks) of trees (i.e., mulch should lightly cover the soil next to the trunk, but not be piled against it, no mulch “volcanoes”). Tree rings/mulching beds are to be edged at the time of each mulch cycle. Tree ring are to be no less than 2ft diameter.

3. Mulching will also be required at other various locations within the cemetery; i.e. flower beds around administration building (Public Information Center), flower beds at cemetery main entrance, flower bed near Carillon Bell Tower, flower beds around Committal Shelters, Honor Guard building, and all signs along roads. The COR will determine exact locations of areas needing mulching.

4. Mulch will be removed where necessary when an access has accumulated. Dates will be determined by the COR.

Dates are approximate. Work will be coordinated and scheduled by the COR and will be determined at the COR’s discretion.

5. At no time will motorized equipment be allowed to drive on turfed areas unless approved by the COR/designee.

CLIN 0007 - Weeding (Tree Rings, Planting Beds, Columbarium Walkways and all graveled areas, gravel areas in the Maint. Areas, Roadways, PIC flower beds, Bell tower flower beds and walkways)

1. Weeds will be hand pulled weekly from October-November, April to September (8 months).

2. Weeding will be required around all trees within the developed areas of the cemetery.

3. Weeding will also be required at all locations within the cemetery to include all planting beds; i.e. around administration building (Public Information Center), portions along the memorial walkway, cemetery main entrance, Carillon Bell Tower, mulch beds and walk paths, Columbaria walls flower beds(gravel/mulch), Columbaria planting beds, Columbaria walk ways, Committal Shelters, Honor Guard building, Maintenance area to include all gravel areas and paved/concrete areas throughout the cemetery.

4. Dates are approximate, and Work will be coordinated and scheduled by the COR/designee and will be determined at the COR’s discretion

5. No motorized equipment allowed on turfed areas unless approved by the COR/designee.

CLIN 0008 - Soil Sample

(a) Soil samples will be taken an estimated one time each year, or as requested by the COR/designee. Four (4) samples (one each from four separate sections, and each comprised of at least 10 soil cores taken from across the section) will be taken as determined by COR/designee. Soil test will be performed in late July early August.

1. Soil tests will be performed at contractor expense. At a minimum, samples will be analyzed for phosphorous, potassium, organic matter content, pH, and cation exchange capacity (CEC). Should the soil test results necessitate changing the fertilizer application amount or rate, the contract will be modified accordingly.

2. Soil test results must be provided to COR/designee for review, plan and filing purposes.

CLIN 0009 - Insecticide Application

Grub control insecticide shall be uniformly applied to turf by licensed commercial applicator between mid-June and mid-July. Insecticide will be applied to all turf areas (approximately 80.8 aces). The maximum commercial label rate for the site of one of the following insecticides shall be used:

· Clothianidin (e.g., Arena)

· Imidacloprid (e.g., Merit)

· Thiamethoxam (e.g., Meridian)

· Chlorantraniliprole (e.g., Acelepryn) if applied in May or June If a granular product is used, any deposited on impervious surfaces (walks/pavement) shall be removed or blown onto turf immediately following application.

CLIN 0010 – Trash Pick Up

1. All trash receptacles throughout the cemetery will be emptied daily (Mon-Fri) by 10:00 AM. Trash receptacles are located in front of all burial sections, Committal Shelters, Administration building (PIC), and Honor Guard building.

2. Contractor may place all trash in the roll off dumpster located in the maintenance yard.

Proposed schedule for applications and work:

The following schedule is a recommendation only. The COR will make the final decision of when each task is to be performed.

(a) MARCH

1. Leaf removal (depending on weather)

(b) APRIL - MAY

1. Pre-Emergent herbicide (Weed Control) - To be applied when soil temperature reaches 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees C).

2. Broadleaf herbicide – during dandelion bloom

3. Tree Pruning, limb removal, hedging, perimeter vegetation management

4. Leaf removal (final)

5. Mulch

6. Weeding

(c) JUNE

1. Mulch (where needed)

2. 2nd Pre-Emergence herbicide application

3. Insect control – As needed

4. Weeding

5. Fertilize

(d) JULY-AUGUST

1. Tree Pruning, limb removal, hedging, perimeter vegetation management

2. Grub control insecticide application

3. Weeding

4. Soil Testing

5. Mulch (where needed)

(e) SEPTEMBER – OCTOBER

1. Fertilize (early September)

2. Leaf removal (to occur Oct – April)

3. Broadleaf herbicide – As needed

4. Fertilize (to coincide with final mowing)

5. Tree Pruning, limb removal, hedging, perimeter vegetation management

6. Weeding

SOD GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:

No motorized equipment will be allowed on turfed areas for this portion of the contract unless approved by the COR.

(a) Completion Time: As sod is a perishable item and needs to be installed within several hours after being cut, the Contractor will complete sod installation on the same day by 1500 hrs. For each individual delivery of sod made to the cemetery. The COR will reject any sod with (i) yellow leaves, (ii) signs of mold or mildew, (iii) is brown / straw like indicating sod has remained on pallets or has been stacked too long, or (iv) has reduced vigor and will establish poorly. No motorized equipment will be allowed on turfed areas for this portion of the contract unless approved by the COR/designee.

(b) Placement of Orders: The estimated quantity of square feet of sod indicated in the Price Schedule will not be needed all in one delivery, but as the cemetery continues to move through a particular burial section or area that needs repaired in the cemetery and has a need for more turf coverage. The Government anticipates ordering, and the Contractor furnishing, approximately 75,000 square feet of sod annually. Sod orders will be placed on an “as needed / as requested” basis in approximately 1500 square feet increments from as soon as the Contractor is able to cut sod in the spring to as far into the fall/winter.

(c) Orders for sod: Will be placed by the COR/designee. At the COR’s discretion, orders will be placed by email. Sod orders will be placed on an “as-needed / as requested” basis in approximately 1500 square feet increments. The cemetery will notify the Contractor of the need for sod delivery 1 week (7 calendar days) before it needs to be installed.

(d) Sod Application: Sod will be produced from Blue or Gold Tag or certified seed as classified in the TPI Guideline Specifications to Turf Grass Sod. The composition of the grass species in the sod will be a mix of 100% Kentucky Blue/Rye grass using a blend of at least 3 regionally adapted cultivars of Kentucky bluegrass.

SOD INSTALLATION

(a) Great Lakes National Cemetery will not provide any equipment, personnel or assistance to the contractor for the installation of sod. All work normally associated with the placement of the sod will be the contractor's responsibility. Sufficient manpower and equipment will be provided by the contractor for acceptable and timely installation of the sod. Any motorized equipment used by contractor must be approved by COR before it is allowed on turf areas.

(b) The contractor will properly prepare each gravesite, road edge or area within the cemetery as directed by the COR before installation of sod. Contractor will remove any existing sod or debris, rake (break up hard soil to allow root growth), level (bring to grade) with the surrounding area and ensure a firm grade of the ground before the installation of sod. Add topsoil (1-2 inches)provided by contractor . To ensure the installed headstone remains at the proper height, each gravesite will be raked and leveled to allow 26 inches of exposed headstone (26 inches: measured from where the top of the ground meets the bottom of the headstone to the top of the arch) or as directed by the COR. When sod is installed, the height of the exposed headstone will be no less and no more than 25 inches or as directed by the COR. A 1/8-inch tolerance is allowed. (25 inches: measured from where the top of the ground meets the bottom of the headstone to the top of the arch) or as directed by the COR/designee.

(c) The sod will be cut in approximately 2’ by 4’ widths. The pieces not varying more than 0.5 inches to ensure installation ease and a uniform initial appearance and will be cut at a thickness of no more than 0.75 -1-inch-thick excluding thatch and leaf length. All sod will be delivered to the work site and installed the day it is harvested.

(d) The Contractor will make all necessary arrangements to protect sod from excessive drying and wind damage from the time it is harvested at the sod farm until it is delivered to the cemetery and installed.

(e) The individual sod pieces will be laid expeditiously without interruption, until the work area is completely covered. All pieces of sod will be cut and tightly fitted against one another without overlapping or stretching to eliminate any gaps or visible seams and will be fitted around all upright markers and any other obstructions.

(f) When laying the sod, the Contractor will stagger each row so that the ends of each piece of sod do not line up with the ends of each piece from the previous row thus ensuring a tighter fit. To stabilize sod during the rooting process and to eliminate the chances of erosion, the Contractor will use sod pins in adequate amounts during sod installation on any steep slopes if needed.

(g) After all the sod has been installed the Contractor will roll the sod with a mechanical roller to smooth the surface and to help bring the sod layer into a good contact with the soil surface.

(h) Debris & Waste Removal: Removal of all debris and waste is the Contractor's responsibility. Any debris left after the sod installation will be cleaned up thoroughly and removed from the cemetery. At the end of each day, the Contractor will remove all debris from the cemetery site resulting from the work. The Contractor will ensure that debris and waste generated by the Contractor is kept clear of vehicular and pedestrian traffic throughout the site.

(i) Contractor is required to clean all headstones that have become dirty as a result of the sod installation process.

Trash Pickup

(a) All trash receptacles throughout the cemetery will be emptied daily (Mon-Fri) by 1000 hrs. Trash receptacles are located in front of all burial sections, Committal Shelters, Administration building (PIC), and Honor Guard building.

(b) Contractor can place all trash in the roll off dumpster located in the maintenance yard.

Hours of Operation

The cemetery's regular hours of operation, as they relate to interment operations and performance of work under the contract, are 8:00 a.m. through 4:30 p.m., local time, Monday through Friday, and includes Federal Holidays and designated weekends, unless otherwise specified. All work commenced during normal hours of operations that extends beyond those hours will be completed.

HOLIDAYS AND WEEKENDS

Below is the federal holiday schedule:

Thanksgiving Day

Emergency Requests:

(a) The contractor will establish and maintain a point-of-contact to receive emergency notifications and after-hours requests from the COR. The point-of-contact or after- hours operation will be available on a 24-hour basis during weekends, Federal Holidays and after the contractor's normal hours of operation. (b) Emergency requests will be responded to within 1 hour and corrective action taken as expeditiously as circumstances allow. An emergency request warrants more rapid than routine response in rendering the situation to a safe or secure condition.

Site Work Coordination & Clean-Up:

(a) The Government may undertake or award other contracts for additional work at or near the site of work under contract. The contractor will fully cooperate with any other contractors and Government personnel and will carefully adopt and phase scheduling and performance of the, work, heeding any direction that may be provided by the COR(s).

(b) The Contractor is responsible for reporting to the COR(s) any problems or questions that may arise with any other personnel on site during the period of performance of this contract. The Contractor will not take it upon him or herself to resolve any problems or issues with other on-site Contractors or employees, but rather will leave it to the COR(s) to resolve the issue.

(c) At the end of each workday, unless otherwise specified by the COR(s) the contractor will remove all trash and debris resulting from work. At all times rubbish and trash generated by the contractor will be picked up and disposed of properly at the contactor expense.

(d) During the course of the contract, if the contractor or his/her employee discovers a badly settled grave, he/she is required to bring it to the notice of the Cemetery Director or his/her representative.

(e) All materials, equipment and debris, accrued from the performance of the contract will be disposed of by the contractor on a daily basis at the contractor’s expense.

Contractor-furnished Items

(a) The Contractor will provide all supplies, tools, equipment, and materials to include lubricants and fuels to perform select lawn care services at Great Lakes National Cemetery.

(b) Contractor-furnished items necessary to perform work as required under this contract will be furnished, maintained and operated by the contractor. Materials and supplies procured and stored by the contractor will be at the contractor's risk.

(c) The contractor is responsible for the supply, maintenance and repair of all contractor furnished equipment.

(d) If any equipment fails or breaks down during the scheduled workday, that equipment must be removed from the area immediately so as not to damage the turf.

(e) The contractor will be responsible to ensure that equipment does not block access to any road or gravesite, during the performance of the contract.

(f) The contractor will provide and maintain, at his expense, the necessary service lines from the Government outlets to the site of work.

(g) The contractor will provide his/her own REFUSE FACILITIES. The contractor will be required to dispose of all debris and other waste materials generated by his/her work at a licensed off-site landfill unless otherwise directed by the COR(s).

The Government will not provide equipment, supplies or materials to the contractor, or otherwise augment or supplement contractor-furnished materials in performance of this contract.

Storage (a)Storage facilities will be provided for equipment and supplies on cemetery grounds. The area dimensions are 18’3”x10’7”x12’.

(b) The Government will not provide office space or operational facilities to the contractor. The contractor will secure and maintain the necessary office space and other facilities required for the performance of this contract at his/her own expense.

DAMAGES CAUSED BY CONTRACTOR:

(a) The contractor will obtain all necessary licenses and/or permits required to perform this work. He/she will take all reasonable precautions necessary to protect persons and property from injury or damage during the performance of this contract. He/she will be responsible for any injury to himself/herself, his/her employees, as well as for any damage to personal or public property that occurs during the performance of this contract that is caused by his/her employees fault or negligence, and will maintain personal liability and property damage insurance having coverage for a limit as required by the laws of the State of Michigan. Further, it is agreed that any negligence of the Government, its officers, agents, servants and employees, will not be the responsibility of the contractor hereunder with the regard to any claims, loss, damage, injury, and liability resulting there from.

(b) Evidence of coverage is required before commencing work under this contract (copy of Certificate of Insurance), and it may not be changed or cancelled without thirty calendar days prior written notice to the Contracting Officer.

(c) In the event damages result to turf, structures, headstone, markers, monuments, irrigation sprinkler, trees, gravesites, curb, road, flower vases, facility structures, fences, disfigurement or damage to structure or property on or adjacent to this project, third parties, etc., due to neglect by the Contractor, repair, replacement and/or replacement costs of the damaged item will be required at no additional cost to the Government as directed by the COR/designee.

SCHEDULE CHANGES AND DELAYS

(a) Changes in schedules, work assignments or delays of daily operation must not occur under any circumstances. Excessive delay or problems may result in actions for termination of the contract.

LABOR FORCE AND EQUIPMENT

(a) The Contractor will be aware of the intensive labor and equipment requirements necessary to meet contract specifications and will determine needed resources accordingly. Communication with the COR is strongly encouraged. The Contractor will be expected to use any additional resources necessary to meet or return to specified work requirements and time frames - after an event such as Memorial Day (when cemetery provided flags are set in front of each grave). In addition, the Contractor will use appropriate equipment, labor, and application methods when conducting specifications and requirements of contract so that damage to Government property does not occur. Needed resources and equipment selection need to be approved by the COR/designee.

FOR NON-PERFORMED OR UNSATISFACTORY WORK, THE GOVERNMENT

(a) In the case of non-performed work, the Government:

1. May, at its option, afford the Contractor an opportunity to perform the non-performed work, at no additional cost to the Government, within a reasonable period subject to the discretion of the COR/designee, but in no event longer than the next workday.

2. May, at its option, perform the services by Government personnel or other means.

(b) In the case of unsatisfactory work, the Government:

1. Will deduct from the contractor’s invoice all amounts associated with such unsatisfactory work at the prices contained in the Schedule or provided by other provisions of the contract; unless the Contractor is afforded an opportunity to re-perform pursuant to 2, below, and satisfactorily completes the work;

2. May, at its option, afford the Contractor the opportunity to re-perform the unsatisfactory work, at no additional cost to the Government, within a reasonable period, subject to the discretion of the COTR, but in no event longer than the next workday;

3. May, at its option, perform the services by Government personnel or other means.

Standards of Contractor Personnel Conduct:

(a) Contractor personnel will be required to adhere to the following standards of dress, conduct, supervision, and training, while performing work in the cemetery. It will be at the discretion of the COR(s) to initiate immediate removal of contractor personnel from the cemetery grounds if these standards are not adhered to during performance of the contract.

(b) The contractor will be responsible for maintaining satisfactory standards of conduct, work performance and will administer disciplinary action as required. Contractor will remove his/her employees for cause to include, but not limited to misconduct in performance of duty relating to performance of the contract that are contrary to the best interests of the Government.

1. All personnel working on cemetery property are required to maintain a respectable personal appearance and conduct themselves in a respectable manner. Shorts and tank tops (CUT off Sleeves) are not allowed. All contractor employees must be fully clothed at all times. Employees should wear long pants, steel-toed boots, and undershirts or uniform shirts to include an upper garment to cover the body from the waist to neck and long pants or slacks. Garments which have a message, slogan or printing of any kind other than the contractor's business attire are prohibited.

2. Contractor’s employees will wear all required safety equipment such as goggles or face shield, hearing protection, hard hats, respirators, if required. Contractor will be responsible for training and safety precautions, prescribed by OSHA standards regarding safety equipment and devices.

3. The Contractor will observe all traffic, parking, directional signs and regulations when using the cemetery’s roadways. Contractors will park only on cemetery roads. No heavy-duty vehicles or tractors will be permitted to drive on turf without prior permission from the COR.

4. Contractor will be responsible for acceptable standards of housekeeping and custodial maintenance of Department of Veterans Affairs, facilities used by Contractor's employees.

5. Their work areas must be kept clean and tools collected and removed from all gravesites when not being used at that time.

6. Not engage in loud or boisterous behavior or use profane' abusive or otherwise inappropriate language, nor play radios (headphones ext.) and/or video or other electronic games/devices while performing work on site.

7. Consume food and beverages only within areas designated by the COR (s). Intoxication, violence, weapons or criminal acts of any kind will not be tolerated - and is cause for immediate removal from Government property. Use or sale of intoxicating beverages and/or drugs is strictly prohibited. The Contractor personnel will follow the Cemetery Smoking Policy that is available at the Cemetery’s Administration Building.

8. Not lean, sit, stand on or against headstones or monuments. No tools or other items will be placed on or leaned against headstones or monuments.

9. Not operate motorized equipment within 92m (300') of ongoing interment services or other committal committal/public services.

10. Not sleep or otherwise lay, rest or be idle in a manner that reflects unfavorably on the Government or the contractor.

11. Will not perform work of any nature on privately-owned vehicles/equipment, within the cemetery's confines, to include the washing of vehicles/equipment.

12. Questions from cemetery visitors will be politely referred or directed to cemetery personnel.

Conversion of Specification to Metric:

(a) The units of measure contained in this contract are expressed in “Soft Metric.” Soft Metric refers to the unit of measure being expressed in both metric and English/U.S. Standard. The following are units of metric measure used in this contract and their respective English/U.S. Standard unit of measure:

Centimeter (cm)

Inch

Meter (m)

Feet

Meter2 (m2)

Square Feet

Kilometer (km)

Mile

Kilogram (kg)

Pound

Hectares (ha)

Acre

Pascal (pa)

Pounds per Square Inch (PSI)

Definitions:

1. BROADLEAF WEED. Any above-ground plant and its root system, other than any species of grass or other monocot - and other than any deliberately planted woody ornamental, groundcover, herbaceous perennial or flowering annual.

2. CORE OF SOIL. A solid tube of soil - excluding thatch and/or turf - not less than two inches (5.08 cm) in length and approximately one-half inch (1.27 cm) in width.

3. DETERMINATIONS OF THE CONTRACTING OFFICER’S REPRESENTATIVE (COR). Judgments and/or decisions from the COR, or his or her representatives - which include the cemetery staff of GLNC. These will be adhered to by the Contractor - unless such judgments and/or directions are not within the scope of work or go beyond the specified requirements. The Contracting Officer will be notified by the Contractor if such a conflict occurs.

4. GROUNDS AND BOUNDARIES. All cemetery land (including turf, walks, beds, planter beds, drainage ditches, roads, and plazas).

5. LEAVES. All fallen broad and narrow leaves, including conifer needles (e.g., pine, spruce, cedar and fir). This includes such material fallen into the gutters of all buildings.

6. RECORDS. On not less than a weekly basis contractor will meet with the COTR and provide a report of all services provided under this contract – including written lists identifying all sections and areas cleaned of leaves, trash and debris, and any other services specified as required.

7. SAFETY, SAFE, AND/OR SAFE APPLICATION. Matters related to safety, and any actions of the Contractor, must meet the requirements of great Lakes National Cemetery’s Safety Manager - which in turn are the requirements of the Cemetery and/or OSHA, and the State of Michigan. It is incumbent upon the Contractor to be familiar with these requirements. “Safe Application” involves any and all actions initiated and/or completed by the Contractor necessary in the performance of the specified work - in a manner that safeguards all Great Lakes National Cemetery’s (GLNC) visitors, employees, and natural resources. It is all actions initiated and/or completed by the Contractor that meet OSHA and State of Michigan’s legal requirements, Right-to-Know laws, EPA guidelines, and otherwise follows the GLNC’s precautions stated within this contract. “Safety” will also include the Contractor having a safety representative who maintains regular and routine contact with the Safety Manager of GLNC. Contractor accepts all liability for his or her actions, equipment, and/or labor that result in damage to property, injury, or death.

8. SITE MANAGER. An English-speaking employee provided by the Contractor to be available at all times whenever work is being performed. Site manager will ensure all specifications are being met, ensure contract work does not conflict with ceremonies and committal services, and ensure employees are adequately supervised and proper conduct is maintained. Also, whenever on Cemetery premises, site manager will be the primary reporting official to the COR/designee.

9. SUPPLIES AND MATERIALS PROVIDED BY CONTRACTOR. Everything needed in meeting this contract’s specifications - with the exception of water.

10. TOPSOIL. A clean sandy loam soil with 3 to 5 percent organic content - as verified by the contractor through analysis by a licensed soil testing laboratory. It will be free of sticks, stones and other foreign material.

11. TRASH AND DEBRIS. Any item, material, or foreign object not permanently attached to or planted within the grounds and boundaries. Items include - but are not limited to - fallen twigs and branches that are under ten (10) inches (25.40 cm) in diameter, paper products, cigarette butts, gum, glass and metal products, plastic and any other synthetic item, plus loose rock and stone over three (3) inches (7.62 cm) in diameter that are not the apparent result of an interment. Also included is the material found within the trash receptacles located on the grounds.

12. TURF. All plants - regardless of species - growing on the established grounds and within the boundaries of GLNCC. Exceptions: Trees and shrubs, any species of plant growing within tree basins, flower and shrub beds and planters, and any species of plant growing out of walks, roads, plazas, curbs or other structures.

13. TURFGRASS SEED. A mixture of 40% Kentucky bluegrass and 60% perennial ryegrass, with each of those two-species composed of a minimum of two state certified, locally adapted cultivars.

14. PRUNING. The removal of dead, dying, diseased, interfering, objectionable and weak tree branches.

End of Statement of Work

B.2 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

Shrub/Tree Management.

Contract Period: Base POP Begin:

POP End:

PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 561730 - Landscaping Services PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: Z1PZ - Maintenance of Other Non-Building Facilities

Leaf Removal.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Broadleaf Herbicide Application. (2 Times x 82 Acres: Oct and May).

POP Begin:

POP End:

Pre-Emergence Herbicide Application. (2 x 82 Acres: Late April and late June.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Granular Fertilizer Application (3 x 82 Acres).

POP Begin:

POP End:

Mulching (tree rings/planting beds).

POP Begin:

POP End:

Weeding (Planting beds/tree rings).

POP Begin:

POP End:

Soil Sample

POP Begin:

POP End:

Insecticide Application x 1.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Prep areas, furnish, deliver and install Kentucky Blue rye grass sod in cemetery burial section and/or areas as directed by the COR. Areas will be raked, graded and prepped by the contractor.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Trash pick up.

POP Begin:

POP End:

See attached document: Attachment A - Pricing Sheet.

See attached document: Attachment B - NCA Standards and Measures.

Statement of Work

See attached document: Attachment C - Past Performance Questionnaire.

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SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL ITEMS (OCT 2018)

(a) Inspection/Acceptance.