36C78624R50056.docx

36C78624R50056

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.

UEI:

EFT:

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

Brian Werner, brian.werner2@va.gov 303-000-0000 01-19-2024 15:00

EDT

36C786 Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services 18434 Joplin Road Triangle VA 22172

X

561730 $8.5 Million

N/A

Ft. Snelling National Cemetery 7604 34 Ave South

Minneapolis, MN 55450-1105 36C786 Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services http://www.tungsten-network.com/customer -campaigns/veterans-affairs/

1-877-752-0900

See CONTINUATION Page

Fort Snelling National Cemetery Grounds Maintenance Services

Davis Bacon Act WD MN20230117 is applicable to tasks 4.07, 4.12, 4.13, and 4.15.

U.S. Dept of Labor WD 2015-4945, rev.21 is applicable is applicable to all other service tasks.

Site Visit will be held at 10am on January 4, 2024 and

January 5, 2024. See Section D for additional information

Regarding the site visit.

All questions and correspondence pertaining to this

Solicitation must be sent to the Contract Specialist, Brian Werner, brian.werner2@va.gov and received no later than January 10, 2024 at 3pm EST. All questions will be

Answered via solicitation amendment on January 12, 2024.

All offers must be sent via email to brian.werner2@va.gov and received no later than 3pm EST on January 19, 2023.

See CONTINUATION Page

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, Ralph Crum ralph.crum@va.gov Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services 18434 Joplin Road Triangle VA 22172

Contract Specialist, Brian Werner brian.werner2@va.gov Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services

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. https://www.tungsten-network.com/customer-campaigns/veteransaffairs/

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

Page 1 of Page 1 of

STATEMENT OF WORK

DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES

The Contractor shall provide all management, manpower, supervision, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to provide grounds maintenance services as described herein. The work will be performed at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Work under this solicitation is expected to commence on March 1, 2024.

BACKGROUND

National Cemeteries are National Shrines that honor our Veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our Nation. The Cemeteries conduct both casketed and cremation burials, receiving many visitors therefore, standards of maintenance & appearance must reflect the Nation’s concern for those interred there. Because of the special significance and attention each national cemetery receives from the public, strict adherence to contract specifications, terms and conditions is essential.

Every action by the 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.

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The term of this contract will be for a period from March 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025, plus four (4), one-year options, if exercised. Delivery of all items under this contract is subject to inspection and acceptance by the NCA Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR).

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

(a) All work shall be performed during normal cemetery hours of operation, 7:30am - 4:00pm local time Monday through Friday. Work performed outside of normal work hours may be required for interments or ceremonies on Federal Holidays or weekends. At the discretion and approval of the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR), the Contractor may make a written request to the COR to work outside of the normal work hours when needed to carry out the specifications of this contract.

(b) Federal Holidays: All work required under this contract shall be performed during normal cemetery hours of operation. Except for Memorial Day and Veterans Day, work is normally not conducted on Federal holidays. The following is a list of all Federal holidays:

New Year's Day Martin Luther King's Birthday President's Day Juneteenth Day Memorial Day Fourth of July Labor Day Columbus Day Veterans Day Thanksgiving Day Christmas Day

(c) Place(s) of Performance: Fort Snelling National Cemetery 7601 34th Ave, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55450

SECTION A: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

The following list, with subsequent corresponding descriptions of services, describes the contract requirements. The Contractor through innovation, technology, or other means, shall perform the required grounds maintenance services at frequencies determined by the Contractor. Performance will be based on the Government’s evaluation of results, not the frequency or method of performance.

A.4.1 Mowing Turfgrass; String Trim Around Upright Headstones; Other String Trimming in Improved Areas, Along Upright Surfaces and Borders Where Mowers Don’t Cut, Trim Sidewalks, Curb Beds, etc.; Blade Edge Around Flat Grave Markers:

Mowing of turfgrass: The Contractor shall mow all turfgrass to present a well-manicured, neat, professional appearance always, in alignment with the National Shrine Standards in the same manner as a high-quality residential lawn under contract from a professional lawn maintenance service. A complete mow/trim cycle is required each week during the growing season. Mowed areas shall be uniform in appearance, free of skips, gaps, scalping, rutting, bruising, uneven and rough cutting.

(a) Mowing height shall be as specified by the COR, generally not more than 4 inches.

(b) Mowing frequency shall be often enough that:

1) Excessive clippings are not generated, and

2) No more than one-third of the grass height is removed per mowing. If mowing is delayed by weather or some other reason and grass height becomes excessive, then mowing height may under normal circumstances be increased so no more than one-third of the grass height is removed at once, and it could be mowed twice per week at a slightly lower height each time until the COR-specified target height is achieved.

(c) Clippings shall normally be left on the turf if they are well dispersed and don’t inhibit grass growth or detract from the appearance of the cemetery, but excessive quantities or accumulations of clippings shall be removed and shall not be re-mowed to disperse clippings. Windows or clumps shall not remain after mowing but shall be promptly removed. Any grass clippings on headstones, flat markers, monuments, mulch beds, or impervious surfaces such as walkways and roads shall be blown or swept onto adjacent turf, or collected and disposed of, before workers leave the section being mowed. Any clippings or edgings deposited on sidewalks or at public visitor areas including the Committal Shelter areas will be removed (by sweeping or mechanical blower) at same time mowing work is occurring. Mechanical removal may be used. This will be strictly enforced.

(d) The Contractor is responsible for removal and replacement of all items on graves that may impair mowing/trimming operations. Collection and disposal of debris and trash within the Cemetery grounds and boundaries may include items, but are not limited to, fallen twigs and branches that are under two (2) 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. Tree limbs and sticks that impair mowing will be removed from sections upon discovery and removed to the designated area specified by the COR.

(e) Contractors shall be responsible for removal of flower cones, flowers, flags, and other items off the ground damaged by mowing operations. No loose or damaged items will be left in the section before the Contractor moves on to another section. This includes flowers, plastic flower cones, trash, flags, and temporary headstone markers. All official FSNC temporary headstone markers that are displaced from mowing operations must be replaced at the proper gravesite. Damaged flags are never to be thrown in the trash, instead will be removed from the sections to the designated area specified by the COR Debris and trash left on the grounds as a result of mowing operations does not count toward a clean sweep as outlined in A.4.17. The COR, Cemetery Supervisor or Cemetery Director have the right to ask the Contractor to remove debris caused by mowing operations. Removal of debris shall be at Contractor’s expense, if instructed by Contracting Officer. This will be strictly enforced and highly monitored.

(f) Mowers and vendor’s equipment must be clean and contribute to a professional, high-quality, disease-free cut not to exceed 4-inches and will be sterilized when there is a possibility of disease transmission, or at COR discretion. Contractor will be financially responsible for remediating any diseased-grass caused by Contractor’s infected equipment. Maintenance records shall be kept and available upon COR request. Appropriately sized mowers shall be used in all locations designated by the COR where confined areas, numerous monuments or other obstacles are present. The COR, Cemetery Supervisor and Cemetery Director has the right to not allow certain mowers in designated areas. (i.e.: a 72” mower at our PIC and Administration building lawns)

(g) Mulching blades shall be used in all mowers and shall be kept sharp, so grass is cut cleanly, not torn, or shredded. Rear discharge or mulching decks are preferred on all mowers to assist in keeping headstones free from debris. Mulch kits must be removable, and removal may be requested by COR.

(h) Mowing direction must be changed or reversed from one mowing cycle to the next. Mowers shall not be operated within six inches of markers, monuments, tree trunks, mulch beds or other vertical surfaces.

(i) Mowing patterns in open areas shall be deliberate, precise, and attractive to enhance the cemetery’s appearance. The Contractor will provide a diagram of mowing patterns before the first mowing of the season.

(j) Mower ground speed (and turning) shall be slow enough to provide a complete, clean cut, without turf damage. At turning areas, such as at ends of grave rows, around trees and other objects, mower operators shall reduce ground speed and exercise care to prevent tearing or otherwise damaging turfgrass or creating turn or ring patterns in turf from the mower tires. This is especially critical when soil is wet. Any damage to turf from mower tires at these turn points will be repaired within 1 day of identification by COR.

(k) Any rutting caused by mowers or mower tires shall be repaired by the Contractor at Contractor’s expense within seven (7) days of notification from Government. Mowers should be aware of wet or waterlogged areas and adjust a mowing pattern/schedule if turf is too wet to mow that would cause damage.

(l) Newly seeded/sodded in burial and non-burial areas are common throughout the cemetery property. Such areas will be marked for ease of identification, push mowers shall be used, and clippings removed until the turfgrass is well enough established that it will not be damaged by riding mowers.

(m) Unsuitable mowing conditions are likely at times due to heavy rain, lightning, or other extreme conditions. This includes drought conditions or when the grass has become dormant. Especially in our non-irrigated sections. No mowing in designated sections by the COR will occur when this is the case. The COR, Cemetery Supervisor, or Cemetery Director has authority to stop work if conditions are such that work that day or for an extended period when work will do more damage than good to the Cemetery grounds or is dangerous to workers.

(n) When the Contractor drives equipment over a fresh gravesite. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to re-rake the gravesite and leave it to its original condition, acceptable to NCA Standards. This will be strictly enforced. All cemetery staff will be instructed to notify the COR when this occurs and must be corrected by the Contractor by close of business.

(o) The Contractor shall take the utmost care not to damage headstones, markers, floral or commemorative items, structures, survey monuments, and irrigation equipment while performing mowing and trimming services. Any damage shall be reported to the COR immediately. Any headstone or marker that is damaged could require payment for the headstone or marker. All FSNC staff will not hesitate to notify the COR or a FSNC Supervisor of damage to a headstone or marker caused by a mower or other equipment.

(p) The Contractor is responsible for the removal and replacement of all lawn, shrubs, and trees due to damage by the Contractor. The Contractor shall provide replacement plants and must be of the same type and size. The Cemetery is responsible for plants damaged by the Cemetery or third parties, storms, flood or frost damage and trees beyond their normal life span.

(q) The Contractor shall immediately report to the COR any damage to any irrigation systems, heads, or valve boxes from mowing operations. If Contractor personnel find loose irrigation heads or components, leaking heads, or valves, please notify COR as soon as possible. Contractor shall refrain from mowing operations if an irrigation leak is detected and notify the COR immediately.

(r) The Government shall not be held responsible for any damage to the Contractor’s equipment, materials, supplies, personal belongings or which may result from vandalism, theft, etc. while on site.

Trimming grass and vegetation around headstones that mowers miss: The Contractor is responsible for trimming grass and vegetation around all headstones. Streaks or irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, or gouging of the soil is unacceptable.

(a) The trimming height shall be the same as mowing height. No shorter or higher. No exceptions. There shall be no irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, or gouging of the soil. Trimming should be observed by the On-Site Manager daily to ensure no irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, or gouging is occurring. The COR will also visually inspect sections often to ensure no irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, or gouging is occurring regularly.

(b) Trimming frequency shall run concurrently with mowing, but mowing must always be done first so trimming height can be matched to the mowed height. Cemetery headstone markers of each section will be mowed and trimmed before progressing through the cycle to the next section. At no time shall the headstones of a section be mowed and not trimmed by COB. Mowing first then trimming second is required and will be strictly enforced.

(c) No trimming will occur in sections designated by the COR when trimming is not needed due to extreme conditions, like drought, where work will do more harm than good. Especially in our non-irrigated sections. The COR, Cemetery Supervisor, or a Cemetery Director has authority to stop work if conditions are such that work that day or for an extended period when work will do more damage than good to the Cemetery grounds or is dangerous to workers.

(d) Clippings shall be mulched, dispersed, or removed if visually objectionable after trimming, and before proceeding with work in other sections or areas. Mechanical means of removal may be required when excess clippings are abundant.

(e) The Contractor shall be responsible for removal of flower cones, flowers, flags, and other items off the ground damaged by trimming operations. No loose or damaged items will be left in the section before the Contractor moves on to another section. This includes flowers, plastic flower cones, trash, flags, and temporary headstone markers. All official FSNC temporary headstone markers that are displaced from trimming operations must be replaced at the proper gravesite. Damaged flags are never to be thrown in the trash, instead will be removed from the sections to the designated area specified by the COR. Debris and trash left on the grounds as a result of trimming operations does not count toward a clean sweep as outlined in A.4.17. The COR, Cemetery Supervisor or Cemetery Director has the authority to ask the Contractor to remove debris caused by trimming operations if instructed at the Contractor’s expense.

(f) All fuel cans must be kept, stored, carried, or used outside of turf sections and on hardtop or concrete surfaces. All fuel storage containers and storage must meet OSHA requirements.

(g) Caution shall be exercised to avoid any damage to headstones, markers, monuments, building walls, trees, other desirable plant materials, or any other assets. Any damage shall be immediately reported to COR.

(h) Equipment - commercial grade string trimmers shall be used.

(i) String Litter - Trimmer string pieces longer than short pieces (i.e., an inch or two in length that break off with regular wear) shall not remain on the grounds. COR reserves the right to have Contractor pick up and dispose of trimmer strings left on the site or sites where 2 or more strings are found.

Flat Marker Blade Edging: The Contractor shall edge around flat grave markers to remove grass/vegetation that is growing around or over the markers.

(a) This shall be done with each mowing cycle (rate can be less frequent with COR approval).

(b) The depth of the vertical cut at the edge of the flat markers shall be 1” to 2” deep and the width of the cut shall not exceed ½”.

(c) There shall be a clean and neat vertical edge left around each flat marker.

(d) Metal blades shall NOT be used to edge around flat markers.

(e) The Contractor shall exercise caution not to chip flat markers with blades.

(f) Most flat markers are grouped together in the same burial sections, but a few (which also require edging) are by trees in sections with upright headstones.

(g) Debris from edging of flat markers must be removed from the marker and edged area, creating a clean appearance.

Other String Trimming in Improved Areas, Along Upright Surfaces and Borders Where Mowers Don’t Cut, Trim Sidewalks, Curb Beds, etc.: The Contractor shall trim grass and all vegetation that mowers miss, such as structures, posts, trees, buildings, columbarium’s, service shelters, floral stations, and other vertical surfaces. Objects and areas to be trimmed around include but are not only subject to are section markers, monuments, trees, mulch beds, planting beds, shrubs, buildings, curbs/curbing, fences, walls, poles, signs, fire hydrants, parking lot bumper blocks, boulders, utility/valve boxes and covers. Streaks or irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, scalping, or gouging of the soil is unacceptable.

(a) The trimming height shall be the same as mowing height. No shorter or higher. No exceptions. There shall be no irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, or gouging. Trimming should be observed by the On-Site Manager daily to ensure no irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, or gouging is occurring. The COR and Cemetery Supervisor will also visually inspect sections often to ensure no irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, or gouging is occurring regularly.

(b) Trimming frequency shall run concurrently with mowing, but mowing must always be done first so trimming height can be matched to the mowed height. All curb lines, vertical or upright structures and other areas listed above of each section will be mowed and trimmed before progressing through the cycle to the next section. At no time can the curb lines, vertical or upright structures and other areas listed above of a section be mowed and not trimmed by COB. Mowing first, then trimming second will be strictly enforced.

(c) No trimming will occur in sections designated by the COR when trimming is not needed due to extreme conditions, like drought, where work will do more harm than good. Especially in our non-irrigated sections. The COR, Cemetery Supervisor, or Cemetery Director has authority to stop work if conditions are such that work that day or for an extended period when work will do more damage than good to the Cemetery grounds or is dangerous to workers.

(d) Clippings shall be mulched, dispersed, or removed if visually objectionable after trimming, and before proceeding with work in other sections or areas. Mechanical means of removal may be required when excess clippings are abundant.

(e) The Contractor shall be responsible for removal of flower cones, flowers, flags, and other items off the ground damaged by trimming operations. No loose or damaged items will be left in the section before the Contractor moves on to another section. This includes flowers, plastic flower cones, trash, flags, and temporary headstone markers. All official FSNC temporary headstone markers that are displaced from trimming operations must be replaced at the proper gravesite. Damaged flags are never to be thrown in the trash, instead will be removed from the sections to the designated area specified by the COR. Debris and trash left on the grounds as a result of trimming operations does not count toward a clean sweep as outlined in A.4.17. The COR, Cemetery Supervisor or Cemetery Director has the authority to ask the Contractor to remove debris caused by trimming operations if instructed at the Contractor’s expense.

(f) All fuel cans must be kept, stored, carried, or used outside of turf sections and on hardtop or concrete surfaces. All fuel storage containers and storage must meet OSHA requirements.

(g) Caution shall be exercised to avoid any damage to headstones, markers, monuments, building walls, trees, other desirable plant materials, or any other assets. Any damage shall be immediately reported to COR.

(h) Equipment - commercial grade string trimmers shall be used.

(i) String Litter - Trimmer string pieces longer than short pieces (i.e., an inch or two in length that break off with regular wear) shall not remain on the grounds. COR reserves the right to have Contractor pick up and dispose of trimmer strings left on the site or sites where 2 or more strings are found.

Blade edge all streets, curbs, walkways, tree wells, permanent building/structure lines, all flagpoles, all monuments, all columbaria, flower vase receptacles/watering station pads and all planting beds:

(a) Edging shall provide a clear zone ½” wide by 2” to 3” deep with all vegetation removed from joints and cracks.

(b) Damage to asphalt/concrete shall be avoided.

(c) The first edging cycle is to be completed at the start of the mowing season, and subsequently monthly thereafter.

(d) All debris will be blown/dispersed into the turf or removed before moving on to the next site. The Contractor will remove debris left on the roadways or sidewalks with proper equipment. Contractors will avoid hitting cars, services, customers, cemetery staff and other valuable items when removing debris from roadways and sidewalks.

A.4.2 Core Aeration to Turfgrass; Provide and Apply Overseed to Turfgrass:

At least twice a year during the spring (Late April through Mid – May) and in the fall (Mid-August through Mid-September), the Contractor shall perform a broad core aeration of ALL turf areas, The COR may also designate other specified areas that will need additional core aeration.

(a) Aeration shall remove at least nine 3-inch plugs per square foot.

(b) Aeration shall be performed on the entire burial space, up to and including between headstones. Aerification shall be done in columns and rows to achieve this requirement.

(c) Core aeration will not be done during periods of extreme heat or drought, since creating holes in the soil at these times can expose it to more heat, which can further dry the turf.

(d) Contractor must ensure that turf is soft enough or to core aerate. Aeration in dry conditions could result in inability to break through the thatch layer or soil to create desired 3” plugs.

(e) Care will be taken to ensure that no damage is done to turf grass, irrigation heads, control points, headstones, or cemetery property. This includes cemetery waypoint markers that are at the surface of the turf. All damage shall be immediately reported to COR and repair operations shall be initiated before COB.

(f) Any irrigation heads and irrigation lines damaged by aeration operations will be repaired or replaced at the Contractor’s expense. If needed, the Contractor can flag irrigation heads, valve boxes or other areas of concern for aeration operations to reduce the possibility of damage. Flags must then be removed following the completion of aeration operations.

(g) Some areas may not require aeration every year. Those areas not requiring aeration will be designated by the COR.

Contractor shall provide seed and apply overseeding operations to all turfgrass. Overseeding shall commence immediately after dethatching operations (Sept-Oct).

(a) Each section must be mowed to 4 inches before overseeding operation commences. Commercial equipment will be utilized with blades capable to set at ¼ inch deep enough to penetrate the soil, and no greater than ½ inch deep.

(b) Seed must be inserted into turf through a slit or sowing method. Drop seeding or broad cast seeding on top of existing turf is not permissible for overseeding application.

(c) The Contractor shall use a seed variant that consists of the following for the specific location at a rate of 4 pounds per 1,000 sq. feet and 10 pounds per 1,000 sq feet for bare areas. NCA Agronomist must approve any deviations in the event the seed variant is unavailable due to market conditions.

a. Burial Section Seed Mix - 95% A LIST Certified

· 60% Turf-Type Tall Fescue 3 of the following:

· Bladerunner II (rhizomatous) A-LIST Certified

· Nightcrawler (rhizomatous) A-LIST Certified

· Rhizing Moon (rhizomatous) A-LIST Certified

· Fayette - A-LIST Certified

· Mustang IV - A-LIST Certified

· 10% Chantilly Strong Creeping Red Fescue - A-LIST Certified

· 10% SR 3150 Hard Fescue - A-LIST Certified

· 10% SR 5130 Chewing Fescue - A-LIST Certified

· 5% Jackrabbit Kentucky Bluegrass - A-LIST Certified

· 5% 4Turf Tetraploid Perennial Ryegrass

b. Boulevard/curb line, Salt Tolerant Seed Mix – 80% A LIST Certified

· 20% Samanta Slender Creeping Red Fescue -

· 20% SR 3150 Hard Fescue - A-LIST Certified

· 20% A-LIST Tall Fescue (Same as the 60% blend in the burial section seed mix)

· Bladerunner II

· Nightcrawler

· Rhizing Moon

· Fayette

· Mustang IV

· 20% Jackrabbit Kentucky Bluegrass - A-LIST Certified

· 10% Quatro Sheeps Fescue - A-LIST Certified

· 10% SR 5130 Chewings Fescue - A-LIST Certified

(d) All equipment being used for overseeding operations must be calibrated once per year with testing results submitted to the COR. Calibration may be required at any time if the COR deems it necessary.

(e) No variations of annual grass seed will be used in seed compositions or seed mixture.

(f) The Contractor will provide sufficient evidence that this rate has been achieved for all established turfgrass (Delivery and receivables must be verified by the COR).

(g) The seed used will be approved by the COR before purchase and application. Any seed delivered or purchased must come with a certificate or approval of the grower or provider from the State of Minnesota or regulating authority. Contractor will provide a blending certificate of composition of seed mixture from the producer for all deliveries.

(h) Care will be taken to ensure that seed lost to areas such as roadways and any other areas where turf is not intended will be kept to a minimum. Any seed on hard surfaces shall be blown back into the turf before moving on to the next site.

(i) Care will be taken to ensure that no damage is done to turf grass, irrigation heads, control points, headstones, or cemetery property. This includes cemetery waypoint markers that are at the surface of the turf. All damage shall be immediately reported to COR and repair operations shall be initiated before COB.

(j) Any irrigation heads and irrigation lines damaged by overseeding operations will be repaired or replaced at the Contractor’s expense. If needed, the Contractor can flag irrigation heads, valve boxes or other areas of concern for aeration operations to reduce the possibility of damage. Flags must then be removed following the completion of overseeding operations.

A.4.3 Provide and Apply Pre-Emergence Herbicide to Turfgrass; Provide and Apply Post-Emergence Broadleaf Herbicide to Turfgrass; and Provide and Apply Post-Emergence to Broadleaf Glechoma Hederacea

Contractor shall provide and apply pre-emergence herbicide to control weeds to all existing established turfgrass. Pre-emergence herbicide shall be uniformly applied to all turfgrass areas twice per year for annual grassy weed control. Applications shall be in late March or early April when soil temperature approaches that necessary for crabgrass germination, and again approximately seven weeks later. Either Dithiopyr or Prodiamine shall be used at the maximum commercial label rate allowed for the site. Herbicide must be COR approved.

(a) If approved by the COR, and the product is properly formulated, the spring fertilizer application may be combined with the pre-emergent herbicide applications if no more than one half of the spring fertilizer is applied at the early (March/April) time, and then the remainder applied at the later time.

(b) The rotation of pre-emergent herbicides should be changed every 12 months. This is due to the possible resistance of repeated application of the same herbicide year after year. Herbicides must not be in the same chemical family when a new herbicide is used. This may be requested by the COR and/or District Agronomist and must be adhered to if instructed.

(c) Any re-treatment needed because of the Contractor’s failure to follow manufacturer’s instructions will be done at the Contractor’s expense. This includes, but is not limited to, repeat, follow-up, and/or spot spray herbicide application. Re-treatment must begin with 24 hours of being notified by the COR.

(d) The Contractor will provide sufficient evidence that the maximum commercial label rate for all established turf has been achieved (delivery and receivables must be verified by the COR).

(e) Headstones must be kept in clean and presentable condition within NCA Standards. Failure by the Contractor to meet standards shall be corrected by the Contractor before COB.

(f) Signage will be required for 48 hours on corners of sections or high traffic areas in sections before spraying commences.

(g) Any damage to turf, trees and other plants caused by improper application or faulty equipment will be repaired at the Contractors expense.

(h) All equipment being used for herbicide application must be calibrated once per year with testing results submitted to the COR. This will include backpack; boom sprayers and other mechanical equipment being used to apply herbicides. Calibration may be required at any time if the COR deems it necessary.

(i) No blanket application of herbicides will be allowed the week leading up to Memorial Day. Spot spraying may be permitted with COR approval.

(j) COR, Cemetery Supervisor or Cemetery Director reserves the right to halt application operations due to unfavorable weather conditions (excessive wind, rain, frost).

(k) OSHA, USDA, and Minnesota Department of Agriculture standards must be followed when handling, transporting, applying, and storing herbicides. SDS sheets must be provided to the COR prior to application.

(l) Herbicides must be applied by certified licensed pesticide applicators by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Copies of these licenses will be provided to the COR prior to initiation of contract and yearly after that.

(m) Dumping of any chemical, herbicide or fertilizer on cemetery grounds is strictly prohibited. This includes excess product.

The Contractor shall provide and apply post-emergent herbicide to control Broadleaf weeds by spraying all established turfgrass areas with the proper type and rate of herbicides that will control weeds present (typically clover, dandelion, plantain, oxalis, chickweed, henbit, etc.). The spray mixture or herbicide product used shall contain three or more ingredients effective in controlling broadleaf weeds. Herbicide must be COR approved.

(a) Blanket application of all turfgrass areas shall be done twice each year: in early mid-May to eliminate weeds prior to Memorial Day, and in October to have maximum effect on perennial weeds and reduce winter-annual weed establishment. Weather and field conditions at the time of application must be favorable for herbicide efficacy, as well as for minimal risk of damage such as herbicide injury to off-target plants, or of equipment making tire ruts. Preparation of the spray mixture may be done in designated area by the COR and water is available at the cemetery for mixing.

(b) The rotation of post-emergent herbicides should be changed every 12 months. This is due to the possible resistance of repeated application of the same herbicide year after year. Herbicides must not be in the same chemical family when a new herbicide is used. This may be requested by the COR and/or District Agronomist and must be adhered to if instructed.

(c) Any re-treatment needed because of the Contractor’s failure to follow manufacturer’s instructions shall be done at the Contractor’s expense. Repeat, follow-up, and/or spot spray herbicide applications, as needed.

(d) The Contractor will provide sufficient evidence that the maximum commercial label rate for all established turf has been achieved (delivery and receivables must be verified by the COR).

(e) Headstones must be kept in clean and presentable condition within NCA Standards. Failure by the Contractor to meet standards shall be corrected by the contractor before COB.

(f) Signage will be required for 48 hours on corners of sections or high traffic areas in sections before spraying commences.

(g) Any damage to turf, trees and other plants caused by improper application or faulty equipment will be repaired at the Contractors expense.

(h) All equipment being used for herbicide application must be calibrated once per year with testing results submitted to the COR. This will include backpack; boom sprayers and other mechanical equipment being used to apply herbicides. Calibration may be required at any time if the COR deems it necessary.

(i) No blanket application of herbicides will be allowed the week leading up to Memorial Day. Contractor may perform spot spraying with advanced COR approval.

(j) COR, Supervisor or Cemetery Director reserves the right to halt application operations due to unfavorable weather conditions (excessive wind, rain, frost).

(k) OSHA, USDA, and Minnesota Department of Agriculture standards must be followed when handling, transporting, applying, and storing herbicides. SDS sheets must be provided to the COR prior to application.

(l) Herbicides must be applied by certified licensed pesticide applicators by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Copies of these licenses will be provided to the COR prior to initiation of contract and yearly after that.

(m) Dumping of any chemical, herbicide or fertilizer on cemetery grounds is strictly prohibited. This includes excess product.

The Contractor shall provide and apply herbicide to control Glechoma hederacea (also called Ground Ivy, Creeping Charlie) in sections or areas in turfgrass, where present, throughout cemetery. Affected areas will be treated both in late spring and October. Spot spraying or a blanket application could may be done with COR. A blended product with other applications is allowed with approval from the COR.

(a) A maximum commercial label rate of herbicide containing triclopyr as the primary active ingredient will be used as application rate.

(b) The rotation of herbicides should be changed every 12 months. This is due to the possible resistance of repeated application of the same herbicides year after year. Herbicides must not be in the same chemical family when a new herbicide is used. This may be requested by the COR and/or District Agronomist and must be adhered to if instructed.

(c) Any re-treatment needed because of the Contractor’s failure to follow manufacturer’s instructions shall be done at the Contractor’s expense. This includes, but is not limited to, repeat, follow-up, and/or spot spray herbicide application.

(d) Contractor will provide sufficient evidence that Herbicide rate for all established turf has been achieved. (Delivery and receivables must be verified by the COR).

(e) Headstones must be kept in clean and presentable condition within NCA Standards. Failure by the Contractor to meet standards shall be corrected by the Contractor before COB.

(f) Signage will be required for 48 hours on corners of sections or high traffic areas in sections before spraying commences.

(g) Any damage to turf, trees and other plants caused by improper application or faulty equipment will be repaired at the Contractors expense.

(h) All equipment being used for herbicide application must be calibrated once per year with testing results submitted to the COR. This will include backpack; boom sprayers and other mechanical equipment being used to apply herbicides. Calibration may be required at any time if the COR deems it necessary.

(i) No blanket application of herbicides will be allowed the week leading up to Memorial Day. Spot spraying could be permitted with COR approval.

(j) OSHA, USDA, and Minnesota Department of Agriculture standards must be followed when handling, applying, and storing herbicides. SDS sheets must be provided to the COR prior to application.

(k) Herbicides must be applied by licensed pesticide applicators by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Copies of these licenses will be provided to the COR prior to initiation of contract and yearly after that.

(l) Dumping of any chemical, herbicide or fertilizer on cemetery grounds is strictly prohibited. This would include excess product.

A.4.4 Provide and Apply Post-Emergence Yellow Nutsedge Herbicide to Turfgrass: Contractor shall provide and apply herbicide to control Yellow Nutsedge and other susceptible weeds in all established turfgrass. Herbicide must be COR approved.

(a) Yellow Nutsedge and other susceptible weeds shall be controlled by spraying a mix of the following herbicide active ingredients in mid-June:

Sulfentrazone at least 0.187 lbs. per acre Quinclorac at least 0.562 lbs. per acre (For example, a commercial product could be applied at 1.0 lbs. of product per acre to achieve the specified rates).

(b) The Contractor will provide sufficient evidence that the maximum commercial label rate for all established turf has been achieved (Delivery and receivables must be verified by the COR).

(c) The rotation of herbicides should be changed every 12 months. This is due to the possible resistance of repeated application of the same herbicide year after year. Herbicides must not be in the same chemical family when a new herbicide is used. This may be requested by the COR and/or District Agronomist and must be adhered to if instructed.

(d) Any re-treatment needed because of the Contractor’s failure to follow manufacturer’s instructions shall be done at the Contractor’s expense. This includes, but is not limited to, repeat, follow-up, and/or spot spray herbicide application.

(e) Headstones must be kept in clean and presentable condition within NCA Standards. Failure by the Contractor to meet standards shall be corrected by the Contractor before COB.

(f) Signage will be required for 48 hours on corners of sections or high traffic areas in sections before spraying commences.

(g) Any damage to turf, trees and other plants caused by improper application or faulty equipment will be repaired at the Contractors expense.

(h) All equipment being used for herbicide application must be calibrated once per year with testing results submitted to the COR. This will include backpack; boom sprayers and other mechanical equipment being used to apply herbicides. Calibration may be required at any time if the COR deems it necessary.

(i) No blanket application of herbicides will be allowed the week leading up to Memorial Day. Spot spraying could be permitted with COR approval.

(j) COR, Cemetery Supervisor or Cemetery Director reserves the right to halt application operations due to unfavorable weather conditions (excessive wind, rain, frost).

(k) OSHA, USDA, and Minnesota Department of Agriculture standards must be followed when handling, transporting, applying, and storing herbicides. SDS sheets must be provided before application for any chemical contractor will apply.

(l) Herbicides must be applied by certified licensed pesticide applicators by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Copies of these licenses will be provided to the COR prior to initiation of contract and yearly after that.

(m) Dumping of any chemical, herbicide or fertilizer on cemetery grounds is strictly prohibited. This includes excess product.

A.4.5 Provide and Apply Grub Insecticide to Turfgrass: The Contractor shall provide and apply a preventative application of granular Acelepryn (Chlorantraniliprole) grub insecticide shall be uniformly applied to all turfgrass areas between (April, May, or June at COR discretion). In addition, when COR or Contractor identifies a grub infestation, within 2 workdays of identification, Contractor shall provide and apply an additional curative liquid Dylox (Trichlorfon) treatment that will be applied at affected sites in August/September. The maximum commercial label rate for the site will be used from one of the herbicide active ingredients:

- Preventive: Chlorantraniliprole 0.067% (e.g., Acelepryn), if applied April, May, or June. (If a proper formulation is available this could potentially be applied with the first seasonal fertilizer at COR discretion).

- Curative: Trichlorfon 37.3% (e.g., Dylox) (Must be applied before forecasted rain in non-irrigated sections)

(a) If a granular product is used, any deposited on impervious surfaces (walks/pavement) shall be removed or blown onto the turf immediately following application.

(b) Variations of this regime must be approved by the COR, in consultation with the District Agronomist.

(c) SDS sheets must be provided to the COR prior to application of grub control.

(d) All equipment being used for grub control application must be calibrated once per year with testing results submitted to the COR. Calibration may be required at any time if the COR deems it necessary.

(e) The Contractor will provide sufficient evidence that the maximum rate for Preventive and/or Curative application of all established turf has been achieved (Delivery and receivables must be verified by the COR).

(f) Any re-treatment…