36C78622R0006.docx

36C78622R0006 Solicitation for Grounds Maintenance Services at the Long Island National Cemetery.

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. NOV 2021)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

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

F3623BN-22-0000029

36C78622R0006 01-21-2022 Hugh O'Neil (703)630-9353 02-22-2022 10:00

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 Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Long Island National Cemetery 2040 Wellwood Ave Farmingdale

NY

11735 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 The Contractor shall furnish all labor, supervision, equipment, materials and supplies to provide cemetery grounds maintenance services at the Long Island National Cemetery, located at 2040 Wellwood Ave, Farmingdale, NY 11735.

This acquisition is 100% set aside for Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business. Authority 38 USC 8127(d).

Contractor POC Name:

Contractor POC Phone Number:

Contractor POC Email Address:

Contractor DUNS Number:

FAR 52.232-18 Subject to Availability of Funds (APR 1984) See CONTINUATION Page X

JOSELITO ROMAN

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 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:

DIGNITY CLAUSE:

Respect for Headstones and Markers in National Cemeteries; Handling of Markers and Headstones Every action by Offeror personnel at a national cemetery must be performed with the special care, reverence, dignity, and respect that acknowledges 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 Offeror 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.

Offerors cannot walk, stand, lean, sit or jump on headstones or markers. Nor can they drive over them.

No tools, equipment or other items will be placed or leaned on headstones or markers.

Use care not to scratch or damage markers in any manner.

Offeror shall be responsible for replacing damaged headstones and markers and for restoring turf damaged during performance of this work.

Additionally, should any activity result in the exposure and/or damage to any remains, container for remains (e.g., casket or urn), or outer burial container, the Offeror must contact the COR, Director/Assistant Director, or Contracting Officer (CO) for guidance.

Any doubts as to proper procedures shall be brought to the attention of the COR, Director/Assistant Director, or CO for guidance or resolution.

The Offeror is required to discuss the guidance with employees and/or subcontractors and have each employee sign a statement of compliance and deliver the signed statement to the COR before work may begin.

Contracted Site Supervisor will ensure that no Offeror personnel work will cause any funeral, ceremony, procession or visitation to be delayed, altered, or otherwise impacted in such a way that the dignity, security, or safety of the event or visit is compromised.

A list of scheduled ceremonies will be provided the week prior to the event, and a list of scheduled committal services will be provided on the day of the service. The Site Supervisor shall communicate not less than daily with the COR, to ask questions and ensure he/she and contracted personnel understands the off-limit areas.

SITE VISIT:

Interested Offerors are urged and expected to inspect all sites where services are to be performed and to satisfy themselves regarding all general and local conditions that may affect the cost of contract performance. In no event shall failure to inspect a one or all sites constitute grounds for an equitable adjustment after contract award. If you plan to conduct a site visit / inspection of the Long Island National Cemetery, YOU MUST CONTACT one of the following personnel to make arrangements:

Sue Jehlen – Cemetery Director ..………………………………….……... . (631) 454-4949 Paul White – Assistant Cemetery Director ………………………….…….. (631) 454-4949 Rob Donnelly – Foreman ………………………………………………….... (631) 454-4949 Fax # …………………………………………………………………………... (631) 694-5422

SOLICITATION QUESTIONS:

All questions regarding this solicitation are to be submitted to the Contracting Officer, via email, no later than close of business, January 14, 2022. Questions pertaining to this announcement shall be sent by email to: Hugh.O’Neil@va.gov. CC Joselito.Roman@va.gov. Telephone inquiries will not be accepted. Associated answers to questions submitted will be provided via a solicitation amendment. Should an amendment not be endorsed by the interested Offeror, the Proposal will be considered Non-Responsive.

INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS:

Interested Offerors MUST be registered with the System of Award Management (SAM) at http://www.sam.gov and must compete the Online Representations and Certifications Application (ORCA) at http://www.sam.gov prior to the solicitation closing date. Failure to comply will result in the offeror being considered Non-Responsive.

Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) and Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB) socio-economic category concerns MUST have an active/current registration with the Vendor Information Pages (VIP) and the Verification Case Management System (VCMS) via www.vetbiz.va.gov (VetBiz.VA.Gov). Failure to comply will result in the offeror being considered Non-Responsive.

Interested Offerors who do not have a current/active Sam account registration or who are not certified in VIP upon solicitation close date will be considered non-responsive.

REGISTRATION WITH VENDOR PORTAL: All Interested Offerors must be registered with the Department of Veterans Affairs eCMS Vendor Portal at https://www.vendorportal.ecms.va.gov . Offerors who require registration shall proceed to the Vendor Portal’s Login section and shall click on Request a user account to register. In the event an Offeror is unable to submit a Proposal through the vendor portal domain, prior to the Proposal closing date, contact the VAAS helpdesk at 1-877-634-3739, or via email at VA.Acquisition.Systems@va.gov. If an Offeror is still having difficulties in submitting a proposal via the Vendor Portal the contracting officer/specialist may accept an Offeror’s Proposal via email under the following circumstances:

1. Offeror must provide evidence that an email discussions or verbal discussion with the VAAS helpdesk could not resolve registration issues.

2. Offerors must meet the time constraints as set forth in the solicitation.

Submitted Proposals via email without set requirements may be considered nonresponsive. All Proposals transmissions and uploads submitted via the Vendor Portal or via email are due as specified in this solicitation. Late or incomplete Quotes may also be considered nonresponsive.

PROPOSAL PREPARATON INSTRUCTIONS: Offerors shall submit their proposals in four (4) separate volumes and in Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) format. Offerors who fail to provide Volumes A through D will result in the Contractor being considered non-responsive.

Company Information (Volume A) The following information shall be included in Volume A:

· Legal Business/Company Name (as listed in www.sam.gov)

· Complete Company Address (No P.O. Boxes)

· Duns Number

· Company Point of Contract Name and Title

· Telephone Number

· Email Address

· Company Capabilities Statement

· One (1) Signed Copy of all Solicitation Amendments

· One (1) Copy of Completed FAR Clause 52.223-3 “Hazardous Material Identification and Material Safety Data” (if applicable).

· One (1) copy of Completed FAR Provisions 52.212-3 “Certifications and Representations” or indicate whether contractor has completed the annual representation and certifications electronically at www.sam.gov (copy of current SAM status)

· In accordance with Public Law 116-183 a Small Business claiming Veterans First Status, Service Disable Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), or Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB), must certify in writing that their firm are performing 50 percent of the work. Therefore, Interested Offerors who claim SDVOSB or VOSB status shall provide (1) document stating their compliance with PL 116-183. Failure to provide such document will result in the Interested Offeror being considered Non-Responsive. Should award be made to an SDVOSB or a VOSB who is suspected of violating PL 116-183 this Agency will refer suspected violators to its department’s inspector general for investigation and possible fines, suspensions, or debarments.

Technical Proposal (Volume B) The following shall be included as part of the Offeror’s technical submission, Volume B:

· Company relevant experience descriptions

· Managerial & Technical Qualifications of Key Personal to include Resumes

· Work Plan/Staffing Plan to accomplish the required services to include man hours, methodology, list of equipment/vehicles to be used, licenses, permits and insurance information.

· GANTT Chart

Past Performance (Volume C) The following shall be included as part of the Offeror’s Past Performance submission, Volume C:

· Past performance Questionnaire (Attachment D) from at least three (3) references in the last five (5) years. Past Performance information provided must be similar or somewhat similar to the required service(s). Interested Offeror shall list any National Cemetery Administration (NCA) contracts currently working or previously worked first followed by Non-NCA contracts.

Pricing (Volume D) The following information shall be included in Volume D

· Proposed pricing shall be submitted on the Price/Cost Schedule of Services.

B.2 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

Mow Cycle & Debris Removal: Mow 310 acres of turf on a seven (7) day cycle to include removal of all debris and grass clippings. Clean all sidewalks, roadways, driveways and parking areas Contract Period: Base POP Begin:

POP End:

PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 561730 - Landscaping Services PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: S208 - Housekeeping - Landscaping/Groundskeeping

Trim approximately 247,000 upright headstones & 2,100 flat grave markers, 28 miles of fence lines and curb lines, trim grass around base of approximately 4,000 trees in cemetery burial sections and trim miscellaneous structures throughout entire cemetery (trimming to be completed on a seven (7) day cycle in conjunction with mowing)

POP Begin:

POP End:

Edging of all cemetery sidewalks / curb lines with a stick blade edger once a month from April to September

POP Begin:

POP End:

Trash & Debris Removal. Also includes trash removal of any trash / debris located along the entire sidewalk that borders Wellwood Ave. & along the entire area of East Little Neck Road that borders the cemetery

POP Begin:

POP End:

Fall Leaf Removal & Cleanup: Cleanup and removal of leaves, leaf debris & branches. This leaf cleanup will commence October 15th and occur every two weeks through December 31st (weather permitting) with all leaves being removed from the cemetery.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Tree Pruning/Trimming/Removal of trees IDed by the COR w/ all debris being chipped/removed from cem premises by the Contractor. Removal of trees IDed by the COR will include grinding of stump, removal of grindings, backfill stump cavity w/ clean topsoil, tamping and seeding.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Holiday / Christmas Wreath Removal & Pickup: Wreath removal from individual gravesites will commence beginning Jan 20th and will last through Feb 20th. Approximately 80,000 wreaths will be removed from gravesites and will be placed in onsite cem dumpster

POP Begin:

POP End:

Snow removal from all sidewalks. including areas around the administration building, lodge, restrooms, all columbarium’s, committal shelters and flagpole. Removal process will include the application of calcium chloride / rock salt.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Mow Cycle & Debris Removal: Mow 310 acres of turf on a seven (7) day cycle to include removal of all debris and grass clippings. Clean all sidewalks, roadways, driveways and parking areas Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin:

POP End:

Trim approximately 247,000 upright headstones & 2,100 flat grave markers, 28 miles of fence lines and curb lines, trim grass around base of approximately 4,000 trees in cemetery burial sections and trim miscellaneous structures throughout entire cemetery (trimming to be completed on a seven (7) day cycle in conjunction with mowing)

POP Begin:

POP End:

Edging of all cemetery sidewalks / curb lines with a stick blade edger once a month from April to September

POP Begin:

POP End:

Trash & Debris Removal. Also includes trash removal of any trash / debris located along the entire sidewalk that borders Wellwood Ave. & along the entire area of East Little Neck Road that borders the cemetery

POP Begin:

POP End:

Fall Leaf Removal & Cleanup: Cleanup and removal of leaves, leaf debris & branches. This leaf cleanup will commence October 15th and occur every two weeks through December 31st (weather permitting) with all leaves being removed from the cemetery.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Tree Pruning/Trimming/Removal of trees IDed by the COR w/ all debris being chipped/removed from cem premises by the Contractor. Removal of trees IDed by the COR will include grinding of stump, removal of grindings, backfill stump cavity w/ clean topsoil, tamping and seeding.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Holiday / Christmas Wreath Removal & Pickup: Wreath removal from individual gravesites will commence beginning Jan 20th and will last through Feb 20th. Approximately 80,000 wreaths will be removed from gravesites and will be placed in onsite cem dumpster

POP Begin:

POP End:

Snow removal from all sidewalks. including areas around the administration building, lodge, restrooms, all columbarium’s, committal shelters and flagpole. Removal process will include the application of calcium chloride / rock salt.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Mow Cycle & Debris Removal: Mow 310 acres of turf on a seven (7) day cycle to include removal of all debris and grass clippings. Clean all sidewalks, roadways, driveways and parking areas Contract Period: Option 2 POP Begin:

POP End:

Trim approximately 247,000 upright headstones & 2,100 flat grave markers, 28 miles of fence lines and curb lines, trim grass around base of approximately 4,000 trees in cemetery burial sections and trim miscellaneous structures throughout entire cemetery

POP Begin:

POP End:

Edging of all cemetery sidewalks / curb lines with a stick blade edger once a month from April to September

POP Begin:

POP End:

Trash & Debris Removal. Also includes trash removal of any trash / debris located along the entire sidewalk that borders Wellwood Ave. & along the entire area of East Little Neck Road that borders the cemetery

POP Begin:

POP End:

Fall Leaf Removal & Cleanup: Cleanup and removal of leaves, leaf debris & branches. This leaf cleanup will commence October 15th and occur every two weeks through December 31st (weather permitting) with all leaves being removed from the cemetery.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Tree Pruning/Trimming/Removal of trees IDed by the COR w/ all debris being chipped/removed from cem premises by the Contractor. Removal of trees IDed by the COR will include grinding of stump, removal of grindings, backfill stump cavity w/ clean topsoil, tamping and seeding.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Holiday / Christmas Wreath Removal & Pickup: Wreath removal from individual gravesites will commence beginning Jan 20th and will last through Feb 20th. Approximately 80,000 wreaths will be removed from gravesites and will be placed in onsite cem dumpster.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Snow removal from all sidewalks. including areas around the administration building, lodge, restrooms, all columbarium’s, committal shelters and flagpole. Removal process will include the application of calcium chloride / rock salt.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Mow Cycle & Debris Removal: Mow 310 acres of turf on a seven (7) day cycle to include removal of all debris and grass clippings. Clean all sidewalks, roadways, driveways and parking areas Contract Period: Option 3 POP Begin:

POP End:

Trim approximately 247,000 upright headstones & 2,100 flat grave markers, 28 miles of fence lines and curb lines, trim grass around base of approximately 4,000 trees in cemetery burial sections and trim miscellaneous structures throughout entire cemetery

POP Begin:

POP End:

Edging of all cemetery sidewalks / curb lines with a stick blade edger once a month from April to September

POP Begin:

POP End:

Trash & Debris Removal. Also includes trash removal of any trash / debris located along the entire sidewalk that borders Wellwood Ave. & along the entire area of East Little Neck Road that borders the cemetery

POP Begin:

POP End:

Fall Leaf Removal & Cleanup: Cleanup and removal of leaves, leaf debris & branches. This leaf cleanup will commence October 15th and occur every two weeks through December 31st (weather permitting) with all leaves being removed from the cemetery.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Tree Pruning/Trimming/Removal of trees IDed by the COR w/ all debris being chipped/removed from cem premises by the Contractor. Removal of trees IDed by the COR will include grinding of stump, removal of grindings, backfill stump cavity w/ clean topsoil, tamping and seeding.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Holiday / Christmas Wreath Removal & Pickup: Wreath removal from individual gravesites will commence beginning Jan 20th and will last through Feb 20th. Approximately 80,000 wreaths will be removed from gravesites and will be placed in onsite cem dumpster.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Snow removal from all sidewalks. including areas around the administration building, lodge, restrooms, all columbarium’s, committal shelters and flagpole. Remove process will include the application of calcium chloride / rock salt.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Mow Cycle & Debris Removal: Mow 310 acres of turf on a seven (7) day cycle to include removal of all debris and grass clippings. Clean all sidewalks, roadways, driveways and parking areas Contract Period: Option 4 POP Begin:

POP End:

Trim approximately 247,000 upright headstones & 2,100 flat grave markers, 28 miles of fence lines and curb lines, trim grass around base of approximately 4,000 trees in cemetery burial sections and trim miscellaneous structures throughout entire cemetery

POP Begin:

POP End:

Edging of all cemetery sidewalks / curb lines with a stick blade edger once a month from April to September

POP Begin:

POP End:

Trash & Debris Removal. Also includes trash removal of any trash / debris located along the entire sidewalk that borders Wellwood Ave. & along the entire area of East Little Neck Road that borders the cemetery

POP Begin:

POP End:

Fall Leaf Removal & Cleanup: Cleanup and removal of leaves, leaf debris & branches. This leaf cleanup will commence October 15th and occur every two weeks through December 31st (weather permitting) with all leaves being removed from the cemetery.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Tree Pruning/Trimming/Removal of trees IDed by the COR w/ all debris being chipped/removed from cem premises by the Contractor. Removal of trees IDed by the COR will include grinding of stump, removal of grindings, backfill stump cavity w/ clean topsoil, tamping and seeding.

POP Begin:

POP End:

Holiday / Christmas Wreath Removal & Pickup: Wreath removal from individual gravesites will commence beginning Jan 20th and will last through Feb 20th. Approximately 80,000 wreaths will be removed from gravesites and will be placed in onsite cem dumpster

POP Begin:

POP End:

Snow removal from all sidewalks. including areas around the administration building, lodge, restrooms, all columbarium’s, committal shelters and flagpole. Removal process will include the application of calcium chloride / rock salt.

POP Begin:

POP End:

DESCRIPTION / SPECIFICATIONS / WORK STATEMENT

B.3 BACKGROUND

Long Island National Cemetery located in Farmingdale, NY was established as a national cemetery in 1936. Cemetery grounds encompass approximately 350 acres of land with approximately 310 being turf. Long Island National Cemetery is a National Shrine that honors veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our Nation. The cemetery receives visitors, holds ceremonies and conducts committal services. Because of the special significance and attention it receives from the public, strict adherence to the following specifications is essential.

Every action by contractor personnel at a national cemetery must be performed with the special care, reverence, dignity, and respect that acknowledges 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.

B.4 CONTRACT DEFINITIONS / ACRONYMS

(a) Business Hours & Days of Operation: Normal cemetery business hours / days of operation are 8:00AM to 4:30PM, Monday through Friday, excluding Federal Holidays.

(b) Contracting Officer (CO): VA official with the authority to enter into, administer, and/or terminate contracts. The Contracting Officer shall delegate one or more representatives to serve as the Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (COR). All administrative functions remain with the VA Contracting Officer.

(c) Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (COR): VA official responsible for providing contract oversight and technical guidance to the Contracting Officer. COR responsibilities include certification of invoices, placing orders for service, providing technical guidance to the Contractor and overseeing technical aspects of the contract.

(d) Cemetery Director (Administrator / Management Official): The Cemetery Director is the VA Official responsible for day-to-day oversight of a National Cemetery, including burying veterans and eligible family members, and maintaining cemetery grounds as a national shrine. The Cemetery Director and/or designee (hereon referred to as COR) are responsible for contract oversight.

(e) Contractor: The term “Contractor” as used herein refers to the prime Contractor, his/her employees, and any subcontractors and their employees. The Contractor is responsible for assuring its employees and subcontractors comply with all contract terms, conditions and provisions.

(f) National Cemetery Administration (NCA) Operational Standards & Measures: Provides standards for performance in the key cemetery operational areas of Interments, Grounds Maintenance, Headstones, Markers and Equipment & Facilities Maintenance. A copy of NCA Operational Standards shall be provided to the Contractor by the COR.

(g) NCA Turf & Landscape Handbook 3420: Outlines procedures for the proper establishment and care of turf-grass in VA National Cemeteries. A copy of the handbook shall be provided to the Contractor by the COR.

B.5 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

(a) Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, materials, tools, supplies and equipment necessary to provide grounds maintenance services at the Long Island National Cemetery as specified herein.

(b) All work shall be performed during normal cemetery hours of operation (8:00am - 4:30pm local time / Monday thru Friday - excluding Federal Holidays). Work performed outside of normal work hours shall be at the discretion and approval of the VA Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).

(c) General Grounds Supervisor: An English speaking employee provided by the Contractor who is solely dedicated to supervising general grounds care tasks, which includes mowing and trimming of turf; edging of curbs; clearing snow and ice from walks, plazas, and steps; performing post-burial care to new gravesites; removing trash, debris, leaves, and floral arrangements; and providing additional clean-up prior to ceremonies. If no such tasks are being performed at a specific time at Long Island National Cemetery, this Supervisor may assist as Contractor sees fit with other tasks listed in the SOW. The General Grounds Supervisor must have demonstrated experience as a direct supervisor of the tasks at a large commercial or public facility comparable in scope and complexity to Long Island National Cemetery. The Supervisor shall have a minimum of 10 years’ experience in the commercial turf industry, with no less than 5 years’ experience in an installation comparable in scope and complexity to LINC, and a minimum of 3 years’ experience as a direct supervisor on commercial or public facility comparable in scope and complexity to LINC. The Supervisor shall have extensive knowledge of proper equipment operation, advance calculations, grounds maintenance, agronomy/turf terminology and methodology, computer software, etc. that is necessary for performing job requirements.

(d) Places of Performance:

B.6 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

The following index of services briefly describes the work involved. All services described in the Schedule, including Technical Specifications, Addenda, Terms, Conditions and Clauses of the contract shall form the complete requirement.

B.6.3 LAWN MAINTENANCE -- MOWING

(a) SCOPE

The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing all grass within the Long Island National Cemetery including the cemetery perimeters bordering Wellwood Ave. to the West, Little East Neck Road to the East and Colonial Springs Road to the North. Cemetery turf encompasses approximately three hundred ten (310) acres of lawn area.

ESTIMATED MOWING / TRIMMING QUANTITIES: The mowing / trimming quantities indicated in the Price Schedule are estimated. Should weather conditions (extreme dry period / drought, or excessive rainfall) result in excessive or minimal turf growth, the Government reserves the right to increase or decrease the quantity of mowing and trimming cycles required by this contract with the contractor being compensated accordingly for additional mowing or trimming cycles.

(b) NCA STANDARDS

(i) Standard 2.1c: 95% of turf in visually prominent areas is maintained within one inch above the range of that which is professionally recommended for that type of turf and region.

(c) PROCEDURES

(i) Equipment: The Contractor shall use rear-discharge or mulching mowers only. Riding mowers may only be operated within two (2) inches of headstones, markers, monuments, tree trunks or other vertical surfaces.

(ii) Cutting blades on mowing and trimming equipment must be kept sharp so that grass tips are cleanly cut and not torn or damaged. The height of grass is what is measured to get the correct cutting height. The cutting height of all mowing equipment shall be set to maintain a turf height of three inches (3.5") during the months of April, May, October and November. In the months of June, July, August and early September due to warmer temperatures, usually lower rainfall totals and slower turf grass growth, mowing equipment shall be set to maintain a turf height of four inches (4.0”). At no time shall more than one third of new growth be removed during any single mowing. The Contractor must also avoid blowing grass onto headstones to avoid staining when mowing.

(iii) Mowing: The Contractor shall mow all turf areas beginning on April 15th or the first workday thereafter. Mowing shall be accomplished on a weekly seven day cycle (or as otherwise directed by the COR). If grass clippings are evident, the Contractor shall remove and dispose of the clippings at no extra cost to the Government. Mowing shall conclude on November 30th or the first workday thereafter.

(iv) Memorial Day & Veterans Day Ceremonies: Unless otherwise requested by the COR, mowing and trimming of cemetery grounds shall be performed within three (3) days prior to the Memorial Day weekend, and three (3) days prior to Veterans Day.

(ii) Any clippings deposited on roadways or other non-turf grass areas shall be removed the same day as the mowing event that produced them. Any clippings deposited on sidewalks or at public visitor areas including at the Committal Shelter areas shall be removed at same time mowing work is occurring. Also, any windrows left in between headstones after mowing shall be picked up by the Contractor on the same day that mowing has occurred.

(iii) Contractor shall be familiar with and utilize different mowing patterns. Changing direction and patterns reduces turf wear providing a cleaner cut. Contractor shall clean all mowing and trimming equipment before mowing in newly renovated sodded areas. This shall minimize the possibilities of weed contaminates to renovated turf areas from outside mowing areas. 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. In the event any items are damaged contractor will notify COR immediately.

(iv) The Contractor shall 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 directed by the COR.

(v) New seed/sod shall be present at all newly buried gravesites, second interment gravesites, and repaired gravesite locations. New sod shall be hand mowed until it is fully established to the point where it shall not be damaged by riding mowers. All mowing around trees shall be accomplished in a manner that prevents a “ringing pattern” around the tree and associated damage to turf. Contractor shall vary wheel-width patterns and mowing patterns after each mowing to prevent and avoid wheel rutting from occurring.

(vi) Turf in burial and public areas should be maintained at a height within one inch range of that which is professionally recommended for the recommended grass type for that geographic region. Optimally, the height should be no more than half an inch above that range. For example, the height of Kentucky Bluegrass / Perennial Rye / Fine Fescue should be between 3.0” and 3.5”. Grass is to be trimmed on borders.

(vii) The walkways (inside and out), flagpole bases, interment area, and roads shall be cleaned of any grass clippings, debris and leaves after mowing, weed eating, edging, and trimming.

B.6.4 HEADSTONE & MARKER TRIMMING

(a) STANDARDS

(i) NCA Standard (2.6): The turf surrounding the headstone or marker is trimmed to its recommended height.

(ii) NCA Standard (2.6b): Markers show turf trimmed vertically even with the marker and free of trimming debris.

(b) TRIMMING SCHEDULE

Trimming around upright headstones and flat grave markers (including fence lines, curb lines, trees and miscellaneous structures) shall commence annually April 1st and continue through November 30th at the COR’s discretion in accordance with the following work schedule:

(Est Qty.)

NOTE: VA National Cemetery anticipates ordering and the Contractor furnishing the quantities & types of services stated in the contract Price Schedule and Trimming Schedule. The Government, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to increase or decrease estimated quantities based on unforeseen circumstances including changes in weather and / or turf conditions. Except as this contract may otherwise provide, if the Government's requirements result in changes to the Trimming Schedule and / or Estimated Quantities stated in the contract, that fact shall not constitute the basis for an equitable price adjustment.

(c) UPRIGHT HEADSTONES

(i) Subject to Section A.4(b) [Trimming Schedule], Contractor shall trim upright headstones in cemetery Sections A, 2A, 3A, B, 2B, 3B, C, 2C, 3C, D, 2D, 3D, DSS, 2E, F, 3F, G, 2G, H, 2H, I, J, 2J, K, 2K, L, 2L, M, MA, MB, N, 2M, 2N, O, P, 2P, Q, 2Q, R, 2R, S, 2S, T, 2T, U, 2U, V, 2V, W, 2W, X, 2X, Y, 2Y, Z, 2Z, Lodge, Administration and Maintenance Complex Public Restroom Building areas.

(ii) Grass must be trimmed at a height of three (3) inches around the perimeter of each upright headstone. The trim area extends approximately twelve (12) inches from the headstone. The extended trim area shall also include a five foot (5’) band or wider between the upright headstones across the width of the row.

(iii) Trimming of headstones and flat markers will be done simultaneously and in conjunction with mowing so that all burial sections have a complete mowed and trimmed appearance at the end of each workday.

(d) FLAT MARKERS

(i) Subject to Section A.4 (b) [Trimming Schedule] - Contractor shall trim flat grave markers in cemetery Sections E & 3E.

(ii) Contractor shall use commercially acceptable string trimming equipment with nylon string. There shall be no damage to any flat grave/marble markers or items requiring maintenance under this contract.

(iii) Flat markers shall be trimmed so that the grass is three (3) inches above the top surfaces of the flat marker (grass shall not be scalped). The Contractor shall trim turf at a minimum of 90 degrees (perpendicular to the base/marker) for flat grave markers to remove all grass/vegetation that is growing around or over the entire perimeter of the marker/base.

(iv) For markers that have sunk below the thatch level of existing turf, the Contractor shall avoid scalping the turf and exposing the soil and the 90-degree (perpendicular) cut may be extended to, but shall not exceed, 135 degrees away from the base.

B.6.5 FENCE LINES, CURB LINES, TREES & MISCELLANEOUS TRIM AREAS

(a) Fence Lines: A distance of one (1) foot shall be trimmed on each side of fence lines (total: two (2) feet in width).

(b) Curb Lines: A distance one (1) foot shall be trimmed along all curb lines.

(c) Edging Curb Lines & Sidewalks: Curb lines and sidewalks will be edged with a power edger utilizing a metal blade attachment to provide a clean cut between any grass or weeds growing over the curb line. This will be done once a month from April through September.

(d) Trees: A distance of one (1) foot shall be trimmed around the perimeter of all trees.

(e) Miscellaneous Structures: Trim around all cemetery section markers, monuments, signs, water spigots, utilities, flowerbeds, walkways, roadways, buildings, flagpoles, gates and other significant features of the cemetery.

B.6.6 TRASH & DEBRIS REMOVAL

(a) SCOPE

(i) Work consists of collecting and removing all loose trash, dead or unsightly flowers, tree limbs, regular floral grave pick-up as well as any other debris within the Long Island National Cemetery.

(ii) Trash, debris and leaf removal at Long Island National Cemetery includes all areas within the cemetery property lines and outer cemetery perimeters bordering the entire sidewalk along Wellwood Ave. to the West, Little East Neck Road to the East and Colonial Springs Road to the North.

(iii) Trash & Debris are defined as any item, material or foreign object not permanently attached to or planted within Cemetery grounds and boundaries. Items include, but are not limited to:

· Twigs and branches that are less than ten (10) inches in diameter.

· Paper products, cigarette-butts, gum, glass and metal products.

· Plastic and any other synthetic items.

· Loose rock and stone over three (3) inches in diameter that are not the apparent result of an interment.

· Regular Floral pick-up at gravesites (to include recent burial floral items).

· Emptying of all trash receptacles.

(b) NCA STANDARDS

(i) Standard (2.3): All turf is free of debris (i.e., leaves, fallen branches and trash).

(ii) Standard (7.2): Trash is collected, disposed of and does not detract from cemetery appearance.

(c) PROCEDURES

(i) Trash & Debris collection and removal shall be accomplished weekly from October 1st through September 30 annually. All trash, debris, dead or unsightly flowers and fallen tree limbs shall be removed from the Long Island National Cemetery a minimum of once per week.

(ii) Dumpster placement areas are not available at the cemetery. The Contractor shall provide all labor, equipment and transportation necessary for the collection, removal and disposal of trash & debris with each scheduled grounds clean-up.

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

(iv) Trash & Debris collection shall be accomplished weekly throughout the stated time frame except when delayed by the onset of severe weather conditions (i.e., heavy rain). The Contractor shall schedule removal work accordingly. The Contractor shall inspect all areas of the cemetery during this period and ensure that there is no accumulation of debris in any area.

B.6.7 FALL / WINTER / EARLY SPRING LEAF CLEANUP & REMOVAL

(i) Due to the high number of deciduous shade trees throughout the cemetery property, there are a great number of leaves that need to be cleaned up and removed from the cemetery throughout the fall and early winter and possibly into the early spring.

(ii) Beginning October 15th through December 31st, (or at the COR’s discretion for a start time depending on leaf accumulation), the Contractor will remove all leaves from the cemetery with each cleanup cycle lasting two weeks. Leaves will be hand raked, vacuumed, or blown by backpack style blower or a walk-behind push type machine from all turf areas and along cemetery fence lines onto the roadways and then collected and properly disposed of from the cemetery grounds and the immediate area outside the cemetery. Also, any accumulation of mulched leaves on the turf shall be removed from the cemetery. Windrows and piles of leaves in the developed land that have been accumulated due to the Contractors leaf removal operation - particularly on turf or along roads, plazas and walks shall be removed within three (3) hours of their formation. The Contractor shall remove all leaves that have fallen on turf, roads, walks, shrub beds, plazas and the areas behind and around the lodge, in the gutters of all buildings, and the areas between the buildings. Equipment and vehicles weighing over 6,000 lbs. (2721.55 kg) will not be permitted on the turf for leaf removal - unless done so at the discretion of the COR.

(iii) Leaf removal at Long Island National Cemetery includes all areas within the cemetery property lines and cemetery perimeters bordering Wellwood Ave. to the West, Little East Neck Road to the East and Colonial Springs Road to the North.

(iv) As leaves on certain cemetery trees (particularly Oaks) may not begin to be dropped or fall until during the winter months after January 31st, the Contractor will schedule a final cycle of leaf removal beginning March 15th to remove all remaining leaves before the beginning of the upcoming mowing season.

B.6.8 Tree Removal / Stump Grinding / Deadwood Tree Pruning

(a) Removal and pruning of all trees shall be accomplished under the direction and guidance of an ISA Certified Arborist provided by the Contractor. All trees shall be topped prior to falling and all limbs over 3 ½” in diameter must be lowered to the ground by ropes. At no time should any branches, tree limbs or sections of the trunk be dropped to the ground or on any headstones. The Contractor will be responsible for any damage to the turf, roads or headstones caused by dropping parts of the tree directly to the ground.

(b) Deadwood pruning will consist of the removal of all deadwood and broken branches that poses a potential risk which could result in personal injury or property damage. All broken, hanging, dead or otherwise potentially dangerous limbs will be removed to improve the structural integrity of the tree.

(c) All stumps shall be ground to a minimum of 4" below soil level, or to the lateral roots or to a 6” depth, if possible. The Contractor shall never grind the stumps to the depth that would interfere with the roots of any adjacent tree(s) that the Government intends to retain. All grindings will then be removed from the cavity of the stump. Stump cavities will be filled with clean topsoil, firmly compacted and evenly graded. After grading has been completed the top soiled area will have grass seed (70% turf type tall fescue & 30% Kentucky blue grass) evenly applied and graded.

(d) All wood chip particles and debris from the tree removal shall be cleaned up thoroughly and removed from the cemetery. The Contractor shall take every precaution to prevent any falling branches or trees from damaging any headstones, roadways, adjacent plant material or structures.

(e) The Contractor shall be responsible for repair and or replacement to any damaged turf, headstones or other property.

(f) To insure protection of headstones that are in close proximity to trees being pruned or removed, the Contractor will use covers to place over the headstones while the work is being performed. These covers will be provided by the Contractor.

(g) Utility Lines Compliance: Where pruning / stump grinding / tree removal conflicts with existing utility service lines (above or below ground), cemetery personnel and the appropriate utility company shall be notified by the Contractor.