36C78621Q0077 RFQ.docx

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

36C78621Q0077 01-12-2021 Brian Trahan 510-637-6287 01-28-2021 16:30 36C786 Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services 1301 Clay Street, 1230 North Oakland CA 94612

561730 $7.5M

Net 30 Days

N/A X

Benicia Arsenal Post Cemetery Birch Road

Benicia CA 94510 36C786 Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services 1301 Clay Street, 1230 North Oakland CA 83316 http://www.tungsten-network.com/customer -campaigns/veterans-affairs/

1-877-752-0900

National Cemetery Administration Benicia Arsenal Post Cemetery Maintenance Services in accordance with Statement of Work

The Government intends to award a single Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract in accordance with FAR 16.504.

For quotation preparation instructions see Addendum to FAR 52.212-1 Instruction to Offerors -

Commercial Items

Brian Trahan Contracting Officer

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:

a. CONTRACTOR:

b. GOVERNMENT: Contracting Officer 36C786 Brian Trahan Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services 1301 Clay Street, 1230 North Oakland CA 94612

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:

B.2 DESCRIPTION/SCHEDULE/ORDERING/PERFORMANCE OF SERVICES

The National Cemetery Administration honors veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our Nation. National cemeteries are national shrines. The standards of maintenance, appearance and operational procedures performed by the Contractor at this cemetery shall reflect this nation’s concern for those interned there. For this reason, the Contractor’s strict adherence to the specifications shall be required and shall be essential. The Contractor shall demonstrate a clear understanding of, and the sensitivity to, environmental issues during the performance of the contract.

Every action by contractor personnel at a national cemetery must be performed with the special care, reverence, dignity, and respect that acknowledge the cemetery as the final resting place that commemorates the service and sacrifice that service members, Veterans and their families made for our Nation. Critically important is the awareness required of the Contractor employees of the remains buried in the grounds where the work is performed. The utmost care must be given to these remains and the headstones and flat grave markers that mark those gravesites and memorialize the service of individuals.

Description of Services This solicitation/contract will establish an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) for Cemetery Maintenance Services at Benicia Arsenal Post Cemetery in accordance with Statement of Work.

Ordering/Performance Period This IDIQ is for a 5-year ordering period of March 01, 2021 to February 28, 2026.

Contract Value The guaranteed minimum award amount for this contract is $1,000. The maximum aggregate value of orders that can be placed under this contract(s) is $545,000.00. The Government does not guarantee that it will place any orders under this contract more than the guaranteed minimum award amount.

B.3 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

Price Schedule

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE 1: March 1, 2021 -February 28, 2022

QTY

(Daily, weekly, monthly Grounds Maintenance Schedule showing frequency of all activities for the contract year, including monthly updates.)

(Includes sweeping, and power-washing of asphalt roads, gravel paths, and other paving; walls, gates, fences, signage, plaques, flagpole, site furnishings, and other site amenities.)

Total Contract Price for Period of Performance

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE 2: March 1, 2022 -February 28, 2023

QTY

(Daily, weekly, monthly Grounds Maintenance Schedule showing frequency of all activities for the contract year, including monthly updates.)

(Includes maintenance of asphalt roads, gravel paths, and other paving; walls, gates, fences, signage, plaques, flag pole, site furnishings, and other site amenities.)

Total Contract Price for Period of Performance

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE 3: March 1, 2023 -February 29, 2024

QTY

(Daily, weekly, monthly Grounds Maintenance Schedule showing frequency of all activities for the contract year, including monthly updates.)

(Includes maintenance of asphalt roads, gravel paths, and other paving; walls, gates, fences, signage, plaques, flag pole, site furnishings, and other site amenities.)

Total Contract Price for Period of Performance

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE 4: March 1, 2024 -February 28, 2025

QTY

(Daily, weekly, monthly Grounds Maintenance Schedule showing frequency of all activities for the contract year, including monthly updates.)

(Includes maintenance of asphalt roads, gravel paths, and other paving; walls, gates, fences, signage, plaques, flag pole, site furnishings, and other site amenities.)

Total Contract Price for Period of Performance

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE 5: March 1, 2025 -February 28, 2026

QTY

(Daily, weekly, monthly Grounds Maintenance Schedule showing frequency of all activities for the contract year, including monthly updates.)

(Includes maintenance of asphalt roads, gravel paths, and other paving; walls, gates, fences, signage, plaques, flag pole, site furnishings, and other site amenities.)

Total Contract Price for Period of Performance

B.4 STATEMENT OF WORK

Statement of Work December 14, 2020

All work shall be performed in accordance the Description/Specifications/Statement of Work, contained in this contract; National Cemetery Administration National Shrine Commitment Operational Standards and Measures (Version 5.1 July 2014 or the most current version); Handbook 3120: Interment Area Layout; Handbook 3410: Integrated Pest Management Procedures for VA National Cemeteries; Handbook 3420: Turfgrass Maintenance in VA National Cemeteries; the most current Organizational Analysis and Improvement Guide (OAI); and in accordance with the NCA Environmental Management System (EMS). Copies of these documents may be obtained from the cemetery director, William T. Pickard (Tel.: 707.693.2460); or online at:

http://vaww.nca.va.gov/leg_reg/leg_reg_dirhand.asp

DESCRIPTION / SPECIFICATIONS / WORK STATEMENT

A.1 Removed

1. BACKGROUND

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 142 National Cemeteries in 40 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 specifications is essential.

The Benicia Arsenal Cemetery is located on Birch Road in Benicia, California. Founded in 1849 on the grounds of the old Benicia Barracks, the cemetery may be the oldest U.S. Military post cemetery in the Pacific states. The cemetery was transferred to the VA-National Cemetery Administration in 2020. It was formerly a “post cemetery” owned and operated by the United States (U.S.) Army Garrison, Presidio of Monterey. The cemetery is comprised of approximately 1.20 acres of cemetery grounds. It contains the remains of approximately 211 veterans, spouses, children, prisoners of war, and three pets. Benicia Arsenal Cemetery is “closed” for first interment requests. The last burial in the cemetery occurred in 1958.

1. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The Contractor shall provide all supervision, labor, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to provide Interment and Grounds Maintenance Services at Benicia Arsenal Cemetery, hereby known as “the Cemetery”. The cemetery location, acreages, and services required are as follows:

Birch Road Benicia, California 94510

1. 20 Acres Cemetery Grounds

Full Grounds Maintenance Services

1. MAINTENANCE AREAS

The physical area of the contract includes the cemetery proper, structures, paving, and landscaped grounds, maintenance areas, roadways, perimeter landscaped areas, and all of its landscape elements. A portion of the cemetery may be under renovation by another contractor at any time; and specific grounds maintenance activities may be under separate contract with another vendor.

1. CONTRACT OBJECTIVES

National Cemeteries are National Shrines. The standards of maintenance and appearance at these cemeteries must reflect this nation's concern for those interred there. For this reason, strict adherence to these specifications as well as the National Cemetery Administration National Shrine Commitment Operational Standards and Measures (Version 5.1 July 2014, or latest version) is essential. The contractor is encouraged to use an innovative and creative technical approach, in addition to standard commercial practices to manage the grounds maintenance operations at the Cemetery in order to maintain the high standards of appearance as a National Shrine.

1. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS & SPECIFICATIONS

SERVICES PROVIDED: The Contractor shall provide all supervision, labor, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to perform the following Interments and Full Grounds Maintenance Services at the Benicia Arsenal Cemetery. THE CONTRACTOR SHALL PROVIDE THE MANPOWER & RESOURCES NECESSARY TO PERFORM AND COMPLETE MULTIPLE JOBS SIMULTANEOUSLY.

Services to be provided include the following:

B.5.1 Cemetery Grounds Management Plan B.5.2 Grounds Maintenance B.5.2.1 Gravesite Repair B.5.2.2 Turf Renovation B.5.2.3 Turf Maintenance – Fertilization B.5.2.4 Turf Maintenance – Pest Control B.5.2.5 Turf Maintenance – Mowing, Trimming & Edging B.5.2.6 Turf Maintenance – Aerification B.5.2.7 Turf Maintenance – Dethatching B.5.2.8 Tree, Shrub & Planting Bed Maintenance B.5.2.9 Tree, Shrub & Groundcover Planting B.5.2.10 Tree Removal & Pruning B.5.2.11 Irrigation System Management and Maintenance B.5.2.12 Drainage System Maintenance B.5.2.13 Trash & Debris Removal B.5.3 Headstone Maintenance B.5.3.1. Headstone Cleaning B.5.3.2. Headstone Fine-Tuned Adjustment B.5.3.3. Headstone “Raise & Realign” B.5.4 Flag Raising and Lowering B.5.5 Paving and Structure Maintenance B.5.6 Public Ceremony Set-Up/Protocol B.5.7 Refuse Collection Services B.5.8 Portable Latrine Services B.5.9 Contractor Responsibilities B.5.10 Contractor Supervision, Work Hours, and Training B.5.11 Government Contacts

B.5.1 CEMETERY GROUNDS MANAGEMENT PLAN

A. NCA STANDARDS

1. All maintenance activities are included in a current Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

B. SCOPE

1. Cemetery Grounds Management Plan: A maintenance plan developed by each national cemetery, which identifies required maintenance tasks and schedules for all grounds maintenance activities.

2. Contractor shall develop a Cemetery Grounds Management Plan for the cemetery based on all required grounds maintenance activities specified herein.

3. Contractor shall update the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan on a monthly basis to reflect actual occurrence of maintenance activities. Submit an updated spread sheet to COR for review and approval.

4. Contractor shall have the grounds at the National Shrine standard of appearance for Memorial Day: Winter-damaged turf repaired; turf properly mowed, trimmed and edged; sunken graves repaired; weeds eradicated; gravesites debris free; roads and walkways clean; etc. The Cemetery Grounds Management Plan shall reflect that these activities are to be completed well before, or immediately prior to Memorial Day.

C. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Within 30 days after Notice to Proceed, the Contractor shall submit a Cemetery Grounds Management Plan to the COR and Pacific District Agronomist for review and approval.

2. The plan shall be developed on an electronic spread sheet, listing each task/activity specified herein, represented on a year-long time line beginning with the fiscal year. The spread sheet shall clearly show the frequency of all tasks/activities on a daily, weekly, monthly basis throughout the fiscal year. A sample Grounds Management Plan spreadsheet may be obtained from the Pacific District Agronomist.

3. The plan shall also incorporate the activities outlined in the “Turf Application Schedule” and the “Trees, Shrubs, and Groundcover Application Schedule”.

4. The plan shall incorporate a legend to indicate which specific products (i.e., manufacturer and product name) are proposed to be supplied with each application and the application rate in quantity of product and/or active ingredient (ai) per Acre or 1000 square-feet.

5. Deviation from the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan is permissible only when due to inclement weather, for convenience of the Government, or by approval of the COR. For all unscheduled work, or work done outside cemetery normal business hours the Contractor shall obtain COR approval.

6. Weekly Report. Each Tuesday morning prior to 9:00 am submit a detailed report to the COR listing services completed the previous week and the work scheduled for the current week. The report shall describe the type of services, quantity of work completed, the exact location(s) where services were performed, where they will be performed, the number and types of personnel performing the work, quality control comments, a status report of all work not completed as scheduled and the justification for non-completion, and any other pertinent information.

7. Service Interruptions. If any services must be discontinued (even temporarily) due to scheduled contract work, the Contractor shall notify the COR at least three (3) working days in advance. If the discontinued service is due to an emergency situation that could not have been foreseen, (e.g., equipment breakdown, etc.), the Contractor shall notify the COR as soon as possible.

B.5.2 GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

B.5.3.1. GRAVESITE RENOVATION

A. NCA STANDARDS

1. Gravesites have grades which are level and blend with adjacent grave levels.

2. Sunken graves, holes and washouts have been identified and a plan of action developed to re-establish the ground level and cover within 15 calendar days of the date identified.

3. Sunken graves replanted during the mowing season show healthy turf re-established within 30 days of the repair.

B. SCOPE: SUNKEN GRAVESITES

1. A sunken grave is defined as any gravesite that has subsided two (2) inches or more from the existing adjacent grade. Standard graves excavated and backfilled are approximately 6 feet wide and approximately 10 feet long. The Contractor shall identify sunken graves requiring repair during normal cemetery inspections and operations and present a written report to the COR. The COR shall approve the Contractor’s list and may provide additional sunken graves requiring repair.

2. Repair of sunken graves shall be accomplished within 15 calendar days of identification. Work consists of removal of existing turf, refilling sunken graves with approved backfill materials to match existing adjacent graves, and establishment of new turf cover. The same procedure shall be used for repairs of holes and washouts.

3. Subsidence: A hole, depression, or washout from erosion.

4. Inspect the cemetery no less than weekly for sunken graves, holes, and washouts. Fill subsidences that present a health/safety hazard immediately with COR-approved fill.

5. Sunken graves which have recently occurred shall be considered a health/safety hazard, shall be marked for caution, and refilled on the same day it was identified.

C. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

1. REPAIR of SUNKEN GRAVESITES, HOLES and WASHOUTS:

a. Cut and remove turf from the area of subsidence surrounding the sunken grave site, hole and/or depression. When possible, sod shall be removed and replaced.

b. Backfill the area of subsidence with COR-approved select fill and compact to within two (2) inches of finish grade. The select backfill shall be screened fill soil with 100 percent passing a 2-inch mesh.

c. Amended topsoil shall then be added and tamped to bring the area of subsidence to final grade. The disturbed area shall then be raked free of stones and any debris larger than one-half (1/2) inch measured in any direction.

d. Replant turf over the area by sod per “Turf Renovation”, when the turf cut from the gravesite is not reusable as determined by the COR.

B.5.3.2. TURF RENOVATION

A. NCA STANDARDS

1. Turf used shall be compatible with the geographic region and shall adhere to the Cemetery Master Plan, where applicable. Seek guidance from expert sources (e.g. local county agricultural extension agent or, NCA Pacific District Agronomist, or landscape architects in NCA-CO). It is mandatory that this policy is adhered to regarding turf selection.

2. Visually prominent areas have a well-established, healthy stand of turf, generally free of bare areas.

3. Work consists of vegetation removal, soil preparation, and re-planting of turf by sod or seed on areas of the cemetery where no turf has previously been installed; turf has been disturbed, has died, has become infested; or has 25 percent or more visually bare area or is in need of renovation.

4. Lawn at newly dug or repaired sunken graves shall be re-planted by sod. Winter-damaged turf areas shall be renovated in spring before Memorial Day.

5. Replanting of turf by either sod or seed shall be primarily season driven, and as approved by the COR. Planting of turf by seed may occur from beginning of April to mid-July. All other times of the year, turf will be established by sod weather permitting.

B. SCOPE

1. Work consists of ground preparation and seeding/sodding of areas of the cemetery where the turf is thin, has died, has become infested, or otherwise is in need of renovation.

2. The Contractor shall be responsible for the removal and disposal of any weeds, dead turf, and shall use quality topsoil and compost/seed topper in performance of the seeding/sodding.

3. All newly dug or refilled graves shall be re-planted with turf by sod.

4. The finished grade of each gravesite shall conform to the height and alignment specifications as expressed in “Headstone Setting and Realignment” section of this contract.

C. DEFINITIONS

1. Turf: Turfgrass, grass, lawn. Any ground cover consisting primary of cultivated turfgrass species, such as perennial ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue.

2. Interseeding: The practice of seeding the same species into itself for the purpose of increasing stand density and recovery of lost grass.

3. Irrigated Turf: Lawn that has permanent irrigation system installed.

4. Non-irrigated Turf: Low Maintenance Lawn, Low Impact Areas. Lawn that does not have a permanent irrigation system installed and goes dormant during extremes of heat and cold.

5. Full Sun Areas: Areas receiving more than 5 hours of direct sunlight per day.

6. Part Sun Areas: Areas receiving less than 5 hours of direct sunlight per day normally due to shade from tree canopies.

7. Topsoil: ASTM D 5268; natural or cultivated surface-soil layer containing organic matter and sand, silt, and clay particles, conforming to USDA classification for Loam or Sandy Loam; friable, pervious, and compatible in texture with the existing soil to prevent a perched water table; a minimum of 2 percent / maximum of 10 percent organic material content; pH range between 6 and 8; reasonably free of subsoil, clay lumps, gravel, rocks and other objects more than 13 mm (1/2-inch) in any dimension; and free of weeds, roots, and other extraneous materials harmful to plant growth.

D. ABBREVIATIONS:

1. USDA. United States Department of Agriculture.

2. ASTM. American Society for Testing and Materials.

E. TURF RENOVATION

1. Vegetation Removal:

a. Apply herbicide in a minimum of two applications. Continue irrigating until just before the first application of the herbicide. Do not mow the area before application of herbicide. This will allow the turf/weeds to absorb the maximum amount of herbicide.

b. While the turf is still actively growing, the entire vegetated area shall be sprayed with a non-selective herbicide (Glyphosate derivative). Application rate shall be at the maximum label recommended rate for the complete elimination of the existing turfgrass and weeds. Product label instructions shall be followed for elapsed time before moving to the next procedure to allow the herbicide to fully affect the plant material (approximately 10 to 14 days).

c. After the elapsed time for burn out, the area shall then be irrigated to encourage growth of any remaining plant material. When there is sufficient re-growth, the area will be retreated with the non-selective herbicide, again following the product label directions for time to elapse for the herbicide to fully affect the plants.

d. Power rake or verticut the entire area to loosen residual plant debris. Remove plant debris and dispose of as indicated for green waste in a legal manner.

2. Soil Testing: (See requirements of “TURF MAINTENANCE – FERTILIZATION”.)

3. Soil Preparation:

a. Soil Amendment: Follow the recommendations on the soils report for the amendment of topsoil through the incorporation of compost, lime, gypsum, and fertilizers (i.e., macro and micro-nutrients. Where no soils report is available for a specific burial section, follow the recommendations for the nearest section. Fertilizers containing nitrogen shall have minimum of 50% of nitrogen formulated as “slowly available nitrogen” or slow-release form.

b. Prior to supplying the compost, soil amendments and fertilizers, submit the following for the approval of the COR:

i. One-half (1/2) cubic-foot sample of compost, and certification letter from the supplier attesting that compost is U.S. Composting Council Certified as “stable”.

ii. Laboratory analysis of proposed soil amendments per the soils report, (i.e., lime, gypsum, etc.) and rate of application in pounds per 1000 square-feet.

iii. Composition and laboratory analysis of fertilizer (i.e., N:P:K plus micronutrients) and rate of application in pounds per 1000 square-feet.

c. Regardless of the recommendations of the soils report, add 1 cubic-yard of compost per 1000 square-feet to the soil. Incorporate the compost and other soil amendments uniformly to a depth of 4 to 6 inches by roto-tilling.

4. Fine Grading:

a. Restore the soil to an even condition before seeding/sodding by rolling in several directions with a standard turfgrass roller filled with water.

b. All irregularities in the finished surface shall be corrected to eliminate depressions and high spots. Fill low spots with high quality topsoil, similar to the soil already present, to eliminate the depressions and achieve the desired finish grade.

c. Sodding: Finish grades adjacent to paving and curbs shall be 3/4 to 1 inch below the top of paving to allow for the placement of sod thickness (including soil and roots).

d. Seeding: Finish grades adjacent to paving and curbs shall be 1/2 inch below the top of paving to allow for the placement of seed and compost.

e. The finished seed/sod bed must be fine in texture and firmly compacted and free of any plant material, rocks or other debris greater than one-half (1/2) inch.

f. The prepared seed/sod bed areas shall be protected from damage by vehicular or pedestrian traffic.

5. Turf Renovation by Sod:

a. Sod: Sod shall be produced from seed and State of California certified. Delivery tickets, indicating date, weight, analysis, species, cultivars, purity, and vendor’s name are to be submitted to the COR. The composition of the grass species in the sod shall be:

· 70% Perennial Rye

· 30% Fine Fescue

b. The sod shall be certified weed and pest-free. The Perennial Rye shall be a blend of three regionally adapted cultivars; and the Fine Fescue shall be a blend of two regionally-adapted seed varieties.

c. Prior to delivery of sod, the COR shall inspect the work area. Any discrepancies in the ground preparation shall be corrected prior to the laying of sod in the work area.

d. Prior to installation of the sod, the COR shall have the right to inspect and to assess the condition and quality of the proposed sod. The COR shall have the right to reject poor quality sod before installation. The Contractor shall warranty the sod for one (1) year from date of Final Acceptance.

e. The sod shall be cut as thinly as possible (3/4 to 1 inch combined soil and root thickness) to allow for faster rooting and shall be cut and delivered to the work site the same day of installation. Contractor shall make all necessary arrangements to protect delivered sod from excessive drying and wind damage.

f. Sod shall be laid expeditiously without interruption, until the work area is completely sodded. Sod shall meet elevations of existing adjacent turf.

g. Sod shall be laid perpendicular to the direction of the slope with seams staggered and tightly matched, and then tamped lightly or rolled to ensure firm contact with the soil with no air gaps.

h. Sod placement shall match existing adjacent grades. Sod shall be cut and fitted around all markers, headstones and other objects.

i. Sod shall be kept continually moist until it is well rooted and able to survive with routine irrigation scheduling.

j. After placing sod, any visible gaps between sod slabs shall be filled with fine, washed, river sand.

k. Any substitution of sod type must be specifically approved by the COR and Pacific District Agronomist in writing.

l. Begin mowing new turfgrass when the leaf blades reach one inch above normal recommended mowing height. Mow at desired maintenance height (See “Turf Maintenance—Mowing, Trimming & Edging”). Never remove more than 1/3 of the total foliage length.

m. Continue watering and mowing until the new turfgrass is well-established. If weeds germinate with the turfgrass, do not treat with herbicides until the turfgrass has been mowed at least three times. Then eliminate the weeds by using appropriate post-emergent herbicides in accordance with procedures specified under “Turf Maintenance – Pest Control”, (and as indicated in NCA Handbook 3410–Integrated Pest Management Procedures for VA National Cemeteries).

6. Turf Renovation by Seed:

a. Grass Seed: Fresh, clean, dry, new-crop seed complying with "AOSA, Rules for Testing Seed" for purity and germination tolerances. Seed shall be labeled in conformance with U. S. Department of Agriculture rules and regulations under the Federal Seed Act and applicable state seed laws. Wet, moldy, or otherwise damaged seed will not be acceptable.

b. Seed Species: Not less than 95 percent germination, not less 85 percent pure live seed, and not more than 0.5 percent weed seed.

c. Species: Blue Tag certified seed and State of California certified. Delivery tickets, indicating date, weight, analysis, species, cultivars, purity, and vendor’s name are to be submitted to the COR. The composition of the grass seed species shall be a mix of:

· 70% Perennial Rye

· 30% Fine Fescue

d. Any substitution of seed composition must be specifically approved by the COR and Pacific District Agronomist in writing.

e. Apply 18:24:12 (N:P:K) granular starter fertilizer at a rate of 5 lbs./1000 sq-ft (200 lbs./Acre). Two surface applications of turf starter fertilizer are required, one immediately prior to seed placement, and another after the first mowing. Split applications such that a maximum of 1 pound of actual Nitrogen is applied per 1000 square-feet of seed bed. Broadcast fertilizers using an accurately calibrated spreader to uniformly apply fertilizer to the designated area.

f. Place seed by COR-approved methods including:

i. Mechanical methods: drill seeder or slit seeder which directly places the seed in contact with the soil. Provide two passed of the mechanical seeder at 90 degree angles to each other with seeder set at 2-inch spacing. Apply seed at 3 to 4 lbs./1000 sq-ft (350 lbs./Acre).

ii. Hydroseeding: Submit hydro-mulch specifications and product data sheets for approval of the COR prior to hydroseeding. Apply seed at 3 to 4 lbs./1000 sq-ft (350 lbs./Acre). Repair washouts.

iii. Broadcast: properly calibrated seed broadcaster. Provide two passed of the mechanical seeder at 90 degree angles to each other.

g. Prepare seed bed as indicated for “Turf Renovation” beginning with “Soil Preparation,” unless noted otherwise.

h. Finish grade of renovation area shall be backfilled with 2 inches of topsoil to within 3/8-inch below the adjacent turf areas to provide required depth for seed and compost/seed topper to replant turf area.

i. Apply 18:24:12 (N:P:K) granular starter fertilizer at 5 lbs. per 1000 sq-ft. using a calibrated spreader.

j. Seed areas with seed mix at 3 to 4 lbs. per 1000 sq-ft. using a calibrated seed broadcaster.

k. Cover seed with approximately 1/2 inch of approved organic compost, Canadian Sphagnum peat moss, or other COR-approved seed topper. Compost shall be 100% organic humus from green waste compost, black or darker shade of brown in color, free of twigs, leaves, animal manures, and objectionable odors. Compost shall be U.S. Composting Council Certified.

l. Thoroughly hand water to maintain moist soil conditions until turf is re-established. Keep seed and seedlings moist until turf is established.

7. Turf Establishment:

a. Care for turf by watering, mowing, and fertilizing until a healthy stand of turf is established.

b. Do not mow until grass has reached 4 inches in height.

c. Hand mow with walk-behind mowers until turf is established to prevent damage from riding mowers.

F. SODDING OF INDIVIDUAL GRAVESITES

1. Prepare sod bed as indicated for “Turf Renovation” beginning with “Soil Preparation,” unless noted otherwise.

2. Finish grade of graves shall be backfilled with topsoil to within 3/4 to 1 inch below the adjacent gravesites to provide required depth for sod to replant gravesite.

3. Apply 18:24:12 (N:P:K) granular starter fertilizer at 5 lbs. per 1000 sq-ft. using a calibrated spreader.

a. Plant areas with Sod. The composition of the grass species in the sod shall be:

· 70% Perennial Rye

· 30% Fine Fescue

b. The sod shall be certified weed and pest-free. The Perennial Rye shall be a blend of three regionally adapted cultivars and shall match surrounding turf variety in color and texture. The Fine Fescue shall be a blend of two regionally-adapted seed varieties.

4. Thoroughly hand water to maintain moist soil conditions until turf is re-established.

5. Hand mow new turf with walk-behind mowers until established to prevent damage from riding mowers.

G. INTERSEEDING by SLIT SEEDING

1. Interseed thin or bare irrigated turf, in early fall (late September/early October), and again in early spring (late February/early March) to coincide with annual rainfall. Begin biannual interseeding regime in spring of Base Year and perform in fall and spring every year thereafter as directed by the COR. COR will designate areas of irrigated turf to be interseeded.

2. Apply post-emergent herbicide to kill both broadleaf and grass weed species. Wait until herbicide has effectively killed weeds before proceeding to next step. Reapply herbicide as needed to achieve 90% kill of weed species.

3. Mow existing vegetation as short as possible, 1/2 to 1 inch in height, removing clippings from the site with bag attachments.

4. Verticut the areas to be interseeded to loosen surface soil to a depth of 1-inch, and to rake out loose vegetation. Remove loose vegetation from site. Verticut in two directions at 45 degrees angles to each other. (See “Turf Maintenance – Aeration”.)

5. Apply 18:24:12 (N:P:K) granular starter fertilizer at a rate of 5 lbs./1000 sq-ft (200 lbs./Acre).

a. Two surface applications of turf starter fertilizer are required, one immediately prior to seed placement, and another after the first mowing. Split applications such that a maximum of 1 pound of actual Nitrogen is applied per 1000 square-feet of seed bed. Broadcast fertilizers using an accurately calibrated spreader to uniformly apply fertilizer to the designated areas.

6. Interseed by mechanical slit seeder with 70% Perennial Rye / 30% Fine Fescue seed mix at 3 to 4 lbs./1000 sq-ft (175 lbs./Acre).

c. Use a slit seeding unit equipped with verticutting blades that cut through existing vegetation and opens up a slit or miniature furrow in the soil. The depth of the slit into the soil shall be no more than 1/2 the length of the grass seed husk.

d. Make two passes with the slit seeder at 45 degree angles to each other leaving a diamond shaped pattern with the seed placed into the soil at 1/2 inch apart.

H. SATISFACTORY TURF

1. Turf installations shall meet the following criteria as determined by COR:

2. Satisfactory Sodded Turf: At end of 30 days, a healthy, well-rooted, even-colored, viable turf has been established, free of weeds, open joints, bare areas, and surface irregularities, with coverage exceeding 95 percent over any 10 sq. ft. (0.92 sq. m) and bare spots not exceeding 5 by 5 inches (125 by 125 mm).

3. Satisfactory Seeded Turf: At end of 30 days, a healthy, uniform, close stand of grass has been established, free of weeds and surface irregularities, with coverage exceeding 90 percent over any 10 sq. ft. (0.92 sq. m) and bare spots not exceeding 5 by 5 inches (125 by 125 mm).

I. GUARANTEE

1. The Contractor, coordinating with the COR, shall be responsible for mowing, trimming, and ensuring all new turf areas are properly irrigated, and maintained in a healthy and vigorous condition.

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

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

B.5.3.3. TURF MAINTENANCE – FERTILIZATION

1. All visually prominent areas have a well-established, healthy stand of turf.

B. SCOPE

1. Contractors shall be responsible for maintaining the turf area of the cemetery and the immediate area surroundings of the cemetery in a healthy condition by proper application of fertilizers and soil amendments indicated in soil tests for each burial section.

C. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Fertilizer: Fertilizer shall be applied based on the results and recommendations of soil reports.

2. The Contractor shall apply at least 5 to 6 pounds of actual Nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per year with a minimum 50% of the Nitrogen from controlled-release sources. To avoid salt burn limit single application of Nitrogen to 1.5 pounds per 1000 square-feet with: no more than 1.0 pound of water-soluble Nitrogen, and 0.5 to 1.0 pound of controlled-release Nitrogen. The composition of guaranteed fertilizer analysis (N-P-K) with micronutrients is to be determined by soil testing.

3. The fertilizer shall be split into two (2) applications every year in spring and fall as determined by the COR. Apply first application after initial heavy flush of spring growth has subsided. (Weather permitting, apply one week prior to Memorial Day to “green-up” the lawn.) The fertilizer shall be uniformly applied to all turf using an accurately calibrated broadcast spreader. Fertilizer shall be applied evenly to prevent burning from misapplication.

4. Soil pH shall be maintained at optimal level for cool season turfgrass between 6.3 and 6.8.

5. Lime: When pH below 6.5 in soil tests indicates a need for lime, it shall be applied at the rate indicated in those tests. Time of application shall be in fall immediately after soil aerification. Split applications if report requires more than 50 pounds per 1000 square-feet to be applied to correct soil pH. A pelletized product shall be used for ease of application. Determine if calcitic lime calcium carbonate (CaCO3), or dolomitic lime calcium carbonate CaCO3 calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) is required based on calcium and magnesium levels from soil testing.

6. Gypsum: When soil tests indicate a need for gypsum, it shall be applied at the rate indicated in those tests. Time of application shall be in fall immediately after soil aerification. Split applications if report requires more than 50 pounds per 1000 square-feet to be applied to correct soils. A pelletized product shall be used for ease of application. Product shall be derived from: Calcium Sulfate and consist of: Calcium (Ca) 21.00%; Sulfur (S) 16.00%; and Gypsum (CaSO4 • 2H2O) 60.00%.

7. Humates: Where soil tests indicate soil organic matter less than 6%, humates shall be applied at the manufacturer rates (750 lbs. per Acre) indicated on their printed instructions. Time of application shall be in summer immediately after soil aerification. A pelletized product shall be used for ease of application. Product shall be derived from mined Gypsum and have a guaranteed minimum analysis: Calcium Sulfate dihydrate (CaSO42H20) 35.00%; Calcium (Ca) 7.00%; Sulfur (S) 5.00%, plus Humic Acids 1.5% derived from Leonardite.

D. EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

1. The Contractor shall provide all required chemicals, fertilizers, soil amendments and any other supplies as indicated in the “Turf Application Schedule”.

2. Contractor shall provide all necessary personnel, applicators, hoses and other equipment. Water will be furnished by the Government at no cost to the Contractor.

E. SOIL TESTING

1. The Contractor shall have the soil tested during the base year and…