ATTACHMENT A - STATEMENT OF WORK 2-20-2026.pdf

Mountain Home National Cemetery Grounds Maintenance Services

GROUNDS MAINTENANCE - STATEMENT OF WORK

DESCRIPTION / SPECIFICATIONS / WORK STATEMENT

GENERAL INFORMATION

This Statement of Work describes the basic objectives of Mountain Home National Cemetery.

INTRODUCTION

The Department of Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration (NCA), honors Veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our nation. Mountain Home National Cemetery receives visitors, host ceremonies, and conduct committal services on an ongoing basis.

BACKGROUND

There are approximately 157 National Cemeteries in 43 states that receive visitors, hold ceremonies, and conduct committal services on an ongoing basis. As the final resting place for our nation’s heroes, the standards for management, maintenance and appearance of these cemeteries have been established by the NCA to reflect this nation’s concern and respect for those interred there, therefore strict adherence to the following specifications is essential.

Every action by contractor personnel at a national cemetery must be performed with special care, reverence, dignity, and respect that acknowledges the cemetery as the final resting place that commemorates the service and sacrifice that Veterans and their families made for our Nation. Critically important is the awareness required when scheduling and performing work, as to not interrupt cemetery operations.

a. The overall responsibility of the Contractor is to plan and perform the activities associated with statements of work as described herein, which are required to maintain an acceptable appearance of the cemetery grounds in accordance with NCA Operational Standards and Measures.

b. National cemeteries are a resting place for our nation’s heroes. As such, the standards for management, maintenance and appearance of these cemeteries have been established by the NCA to reflect this.

c. The nation’s concern and respect for those interred there. The NCA mission: The NCA honors veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our nation.

Mountain Home National Cemetery is a United States National Cemetery located in conjunction with James H. Quillen VA Medical Center in Johnson City, TN. Administered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, it encompasses +/-96 acres. The physical location is 215 Heroes Dr.

Mountain Home, TN 37694. The cemetery’s anticipated burial rate is 650-750 per year. 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 the specifications is required as well as NCA standards.

PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to provide Grounds Maintenance Services to the Mountain Home National Cemetery. Specific location, size and services required for the cemetery are as follows:

Cemetery Address Acreage Required Services

Mountain Home National Cemetery

215 Heroes Dr. Mountain Home, TN 37684

65 Developed Acres and 31 Undeveloped acres 96 Total Acres

Complete Grounds Maintenance Services

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS & SPECIFICATIONS

1. COMPLETE GROUNDS MAINTENANCES SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED

The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to perform the following Grounds Maintenance Services at Mountain Home National Cemetery. The contractor shall provide the workforce and all resources necessary to perform and complete as required; complete the grounds maintenance service requirements simultaneously to maintain an acceptable appearance of the cemetery grounds.

2. DESCRIPTION OF COMPLETE GROUNDS MAINTENANCES SERVICES

The National Cemetery Administration (NCA), Mountain Home National Cemetery has an immediate need for Grounds, Turf, Headstone, Columbarium, Building, Tree, Shrub, and Plant Bed Maintenance, Irrigation System Maintenance and Testing, and Trash, Debris, and Leaf Removal. The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, tools, supervision, and other items and services necessary to ensure total cemetery maintenance is performed at Mountain Home National Cemetery in a manner that shall maintain healthy grass, trees, shrubs, and plants in accordance with NCA Operational Standards and Measures and the Mountain Home National Cemetery Grounds Maintenance Plan, and present a clean, neat, and professional appearance throughout the cemetery.

Services shall include, but are not limited to: maintenance of grounds, to include weed eating, edge trimming of roadways, removal of trash, leaves, overseeding, grave decorations, unsightly floral arrangements and debris (that are not in compliance with the cemetery floral policy), as well as, sweeping/blowing off walkways and roadways;

and irrigation system operation, inspection and maintenance (to include pump house monitoring, irrigation pipe maintenance and repairs (1”-10”), valve and head replacement, Monitoring RainBird ESP irrigation system;

gravesite maintenance, to include sunken graves and grounds repair, cleaning and trimming around headstones and markers; plant material maintenance, to include maintenance of planting and mulch beds (to include tree rings), and tree & shrub trimming and pruning; lawn / turf maintenance, to include sod installation, aerification, application of fertilizers and herbicides / pesticides / fungicides, lime application (as indicated by soil tests), and weed control; pest control; storm debris clean-up; headstone services, to include raise and realign, fine tuning, receiving, transporting and replacement headstones at correct gravesite; cleaning and pressure washing of headstones, markers and niche covers, committal shelters, Columbaria, Administration Building, Maintenance Buildings, main entrance and walkways/sidewalks and curbs.

All work shall be performed during normal workdays from 8am – 4:00pm local time (Monday thru Friday -excluding Federal Holidays where NO burials are scheduled). All times in this SOW and contract are Eastern Standard Time (EST). Work performed outside of normal work hours shall be at the discretion and approval of the VA Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).

The Period of Performance for this project shall consist of a Base Year (12 Months) and 4 Option years (if exercised).

• Base Year: June 1, 2026 – May 31, 2027

• Option Year 1: June 1, 2027 – May 31, 2028

• Option Year 2: June 1, 2028 – May 31, 2029

• Option Year 3: June 1, 2029 – May 31, 2030

• Option Year 4: June 1, 2030 – May 31, 2031

Contractor shall perform all work utilizing best management and safety practices.

Contractor shall understand and meet all current applicable NCA Operational Standards and Measures (Attachment or Appendix). Minor changes to standards and measures shall be at no cost to the government (i.e., timeline to perform tasks).

Contractor shall coordinate work in advance with COR to minimize the impact to cemetery operations. COR shall be notified in writing of all completed work by COB or no later than 10:00am the next business day.

All facilities under contractor control, vehicles, equipment, and materials will be maintained within compliance with OSHA and Annual Workplace Evaluation Standards. All areas on the cemetery grounds are subject to inspection by the Collateral Duty Safety Officer (CDSO) to ensure compliance. Violations will be mitigated or resolved within 30 days of written notice by the COR.

3. GUARANTEE

The contractor is responsible for providing all necessary supervision, labor, training, supplies, OSHA-approved personal protective equipment (PPE), tools, and equipment required to complete the job.

The Contractor shall, at their own expense, replace any turf, trees, or shrubs which have died, been damaged as result of contractor error or negligence during grounds and/or maintenance operations to include trimming, etc., or improperly applied chemical sprays/applications/treatments.

Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds or equipment during ground(s) maintenance contracted operations must be reported to the COR immediately and repair / replacement shall be the responsibility of the Contractor at no cost to the Government.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

4.1 Grounds Maintenance

4.1.1 Edging of Walkways, Curbs and other Horizontal Surfaces

4.1.2 Trimming of Headstones, Monuments, Markers, and other Vertical

Surfaces

4.1.3 Leaf and Debris Collection and Removal

4.2 Underground Sprinkler System Operation, Inspection, and

Maintenance

4.2.1 Irrigation System Pump Station Services

4.3 Gravesite Maintenance

4.3.1 Sunken Grave and Grounds Repair (Casket Sites)

4.3.2 Sunken Cremation and Small Area Grounds Repairs

4.3.3 Sod Repairs and Installation

4.4 Plant Material and Tree Maintenance

4.4.1 Maintenance of Plant Beds, Shrubs, and Bushes

4.4.2 Tree Maintenance

4.4.3 Mulching - Install and Replenish mulch to include all planting beds, all tree rings, shrubs

4.4.4 Supply & Install Sod on All 1st & Subsequent Burial Sites

4.5 Turf Maintenance

4.5.1 Fertilization of Turf Type Tall Fescue, Turf Type Perennial Ryegrass and Zeon Zoysia

4.5.2 Weed Control: Herbicide Treatment/Application

4.5.3 Gypsum or Dolomitic Lime Application

4.5.4 Overseeding of Turf Type Tall Fescue (Spring) and Turf Type Perennial

Ryegrass (Fall)

4.5.5 Core Aerification

4.5.6 Turf Dethatching

4.6 Pest Control

4.6.1 Insecticide Applications

4.6.2 Moles, Voles, Ground Hogs, Skunks and any other pest control 4..7 Operational Flow Chart Cool Season Turfgrass Areas

4.7.1 Extreme Weather Storm Damage and Debris Clean-up

4.8 Headstone Receiving, Preparation, and Transportation

4.8.1 Headstone Receiving (All First, Subsequent and Replacement

Headstones)

4.8.2 Headstone Transport, Installation and Setting, All First Interment, Subsequent and replacement Headstones.

4.8.3 Headstone Raise and Realign

4.8.4 Headstone Fine Tune Alignment (Bump & Run)

4.9 Facilities Maintenance, Cleaning and Pressure Washing

4.9.1 Cleaning of Headstones and Markers

4.9.2 Restrooms/Curbs, Gate, Fencing and Structures

4.9.3 Entrance Ways, Walls, Concrete pads/bases under signs and lights

4.9.4 Committal Shelter

4.9.5 Buildings and Surrounding Concrete Walkways, Sidewalks, and Hardscape

4.9.6 Floral Vase and Trash Receptacle Cleaning

5. Materials Supplied to Cemetery (Receivables)

5.1 Turf Type Tall Fescue Sod (Supply Only)

5.2 Screened Topsoil (Supply Only)

5.3 Chat Soil Amendment (Supply Only)

6. Contract Management

6.1 Contracting Officer

6.2 Contracting Officer Representative (COR)

6.3 Contractor Staffing Requirements

6.4 Site Supervisor Requirements

6.5 Employee Requirements

6.6 Contractor/Employee Code of Conduct

6.7 Work Hours/Schedule

6.8 Contractor Furnished Items

6.9 Quality Assurance Plan

1. GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

NCA Cemetery Operations Operational Standards and Measures, December 2023 Category 5, Grounds Maintenance

Sub-Category 2: Turf / Mineral Base Standard 5.2.1: Visually prominent areas have sand, mineral, or well established, healthy stand of turf.

Measure 5.2.1: Sand, mineral, or turf in visually prominent areas are generally weed free.

Standard 5.2.2: All sand, mineral, or turf is free of debris (i.e., leaves, fallen branches, and trash).

Measure 5.2.2a: Sand, mineral, or turf in visually prominent areas is free of trash.

Measure 5.2.2b: Sand, mineral, or turf areas are cleared of leaves and other natural debris, as needed, or at least weekly.

Standard 5.2.4: Visually prominent areas have a well-established, healthy stand of turf.

Measure 5.2.4a: Visually Prominent Areas with established turf are Generally Free of Bare Areas.

Measure 5.2.4b: Visually Prominent Areas with established turf are maintained within one inch above the range of that which is professionally recommended for that type of turf and geographic region according to the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

Standard 5.2.6: Visually prominent areas are properly trimmed and edged.

Measure 5.2.6: Other features (any additional turf areas requiring edging or trimming such as sidewalks, curbs, monuments) are trimmed or edged according to the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

Standard 5.2.7: Avoid damage and ensure continuation of a well-established, healthy stand of turf during grounds maintenance operations.

Measure 5.2.7: Turf damage due to grounds maintenance tasks is identified and corrective action initiated by close of business the same day.

Standard 5.2.8: The grade of every gravesite blends in with adjacent grade levels.

Measure 5.2.8: Sunken graves have been identified and a plan of action developed to re-establish the ground level and cover within 30 calendar days of the date identified.

Standard 5.2.9: Gravesite openers and re-openers avoid damage and ensure continuation of a well-established, healthy stand of turf, presenting a disciplined evolution, not a construction site.

Measure 5.2.9a: Interments (first and subsequent) during the growing season that show healthy turf re-established within 60 days of the interment.

Measure 5.2.9b: Winter grave re-openers that show healthy turf re-established within 60 days of the start of the growing season.

Sub-Category 3: Trees and Shrubs Standard 5.3.1: Trees and shrubs are healthy and free of pests and disease, and/or are maintained in accordance with the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

Measure 5.3.1: Trees and shrubs are healthy and free of pests and disease, and/or are maintained In accordance with the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

Note: The cemetery will need to implement a plan to remedy or remove any/all dead or dying tree(s).

Sub-Category 4: Planting Beds Standard 5.4.1: Cemetery Planting Beds are well maintained, attractive, and compatible with the geographic region.

Measure 5.4.1a: Planting beds are Generally Weed-Free.

Measure 5.4.1b: Plants in planting beds are healthy, free of pests and disease, and are maintained in

Sub-Category 5: General Maintenance Standard 5.5.1: All areas where cemetery operations have been conducted are neat, clean, and free of debris and equipment at the end of the workday.

Measure 5.5.1a: Debris, equipment, tools, and supplies are removed at the end of the workday.

Measure 5.5.1b: Roads, walkways, shelters, and burial sections are free of grounds maintenance debris by the end of the workday.

Standard 5.5.3: Floral vases and its receptacles are well marked and in good condition.

Measure 5.5.3a: Floral vases are clean, free of water and debris, and in good repair.

Measure 5.5.3b: Receptacles for floral vases are well marked, clean, neat, and in good repair.

4.1.1 EDGING OF WALKWAYS, CURBS AND OTHER HORIZONTAL SURFACES

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

NCA Cemetery Operations Operational Standards and Measures, Dec 2023

Sub-Category 2: Turf / Mineral Bases Standard 2.1: Visually prominent areas have sand, mineral, or well-established healthy stand of turf.

• Measure 2.1: Sand, mineral, or turf in visually prominent areas are generally weed free.

Standard 2.4: Visually prominent areas have a well-established, healthy stand of turf.

• Measure 2.4a: Visually Prominent Areas with established turf are Generally Free of Bare Areas.

• Measure 2.4b: Visually Prominent Areas with established turf are maintained within 2” range of that which is professionally recommended for that type of turf and geographic region according to the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

Standard 2.6: Visually prominent areas are properly trimmed and edged.

• Measure 2.6: Other features (any additional turf areas requiring edging or trimming such as sidewalks, curbs, monuments) are trimmed or edged according to the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

Standard 2.7: Avoid damage and ensure continuation of a well-established, healthy stand of turf during grounds maintenance operations.

• Measure 2.7: Turf damage due to grounds maintenance tasks is identified and corrective action initiated by close of business the same day.

SCOPE OF WORK

All edging will be done a minimum of once per week during the growing season, which is typically, but not limited to, March through November, or as directed by the COR.

All streets, curbs, walkways, irrigation control or valve boxes, control markers, manhole covers, all tree rings and planting beds shall be vertically trimmed with a bladed edger inside and outside cemetery grounds. The desired result will be a no more than 1/3” wide clear gap between the turf/grass and the horizontal surface.

The contractor shall edge and trim all grass within the cemetery and the perimeter fence, entry gates, and walls. All damage due to contractors’ equipment or operations shall be repaired or replaced by the contractor at no cost to the government. Contractor is responsible for reporting any damage immediately to the COR.

Note: All turf shall be maintained at 4” inches or as directed by the COR. Cutting height shall be established as required in the Grounds Maintenance Plan, with approval from the SED Agronomist.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Street edges, with no discernable curbing, shall be edged in such a manner as to eliminate turf/grass from overlapping the roadway.

All edging shall be followed with a string trimmer to dress the top line of the grass. Turf along the edged areas shall be trimmed to ensure the height of the turf matches the entire turf area. Turf shall not be higher near the edged area than the turf in the mow-able area. Optimally, the height should be no more than half an inch (1/2) above specified range of turfgrass.

All equipment used in cemetery on all inclines that are greater than three percent (3%) shall be rated by equipment manufacturer specifications for such and must meet proper OSHA standards to be allowed for usage at any time on cemetery grounds and surroundings.

Care shall be taken that no clippings are blown into mulch beds. Clippings shall be removed from mulch beds by close of business on the day they were created.

The walkways and roads shall be cleaned of grass clippings, dirt, and leaves after all ground maintenance operations (mowing, string trimming, and edging). These areas shall be swept or blown off immediately after completion of ground maintenance operations.

The COR will conduct random inspections of edging weekly.

4.1.2 TRIMMING OF HEADSTONES, MONUMENTS, MARKERS, AND OTHER VERTICLE SURFACES

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

NCA Cemetery Operations Operational Standards and Measures, Dec 2023 Category 5, Grounds Maintenance Sub-Category 2: Turf / Mineral Bases Standard 2.1: Visually prominent areas have sand, mineral, or well-established healthy stand of turf.

• Measure 2.1: Sand, mineral, or turf in visually prominent areas are generally weed free.

Standard 2.4: Visually prominent areas have a well-established, healthy stand of turf.

• Measure 2.4a: Visually Prominent Areas with established turf are Generally Free of Bare Areas.

• Measure 2.4b: Visually Prominent Areas with established turf are maintained within 2” range of that which is professionally recommended for that type of turf and geographic region according to the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

Standard 2.6: Visually prominent areas are properly trimmed and edged.

• Measure 2.6: Other features (any additional turf areas requiring edging or trimming such as sidewalks, curbs, monuments) are trimmed or edged according to the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

Standard 2.7: Avoid damage and ensure continuation of a well-established, healthy stand of turf during grounds maintenance operations.

Measure 2.7: Turf damage due to grounds maintenance tasks is identified and corrective action initiated by close of business the same day.

SCOPE OF WORK

All un-mowed grass around headstones, monuments, markers, and other vertical surfaces shall be trimmed to keep the grass at a uniform height with the surrounding turf using line-type trimmers or plastic edged trimmers.

Headstone and monument trimming shall be done weekly during the growing season, directly following mowing schedule, which is typically, but not limited to March through November, or as directed by the

COR.

At no time should any scalping of the turf happen. Care shall be taken near headstones to prevent damage to the headstone (damage, chips, dings, dents, breaks, movement). Grass clippings and any grass stains shall be removed from headstones, markers, monument bases after trimming on the same day as the trimming is completed.

Trimmers shall be kept level to prevent scalping between and around headstones. All string trimmers shall always have anti-scalping devices attached. Scalping is unacceptable. Where scalping is evident and does not recover the Contractor shall be responsible for repair of the damage at no cost to the Government, discarded trimmer string shall be removed from the grounds after trimming operations are complete.

The COR will conduct random quality control inspections of headstone, marker, monument, and vertical structure trimming.

Extra care shall be exercised when visitors are in the vicinity of trimming operations. At no point shall trimming operations disrupt a visitor or family member while they are visiting a gravesite.

4.1.3 Leaf and Debris Collection and Removal

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements which form a part of these

Category 3, Facilities Maintenance Sub-Category 4: Waste Management o Standard 4.1: Trash is collected, disposed of, and does not detract from cemetery appearance.

• Measure 4.1a: The cemetery's central trash collection points are in areas that minimize public visibility.

Category 5, Grounds Maintenance Sub-Category 5: General Management o Standard 5.1: All areas where cemetery operations have been conducted are neat, clean, and free of debris and equipment at the end of the workday.

• Measure 5.1a: Debris, equipment, tools, and supplies are removed at the conclusion of each task and at the end of the workday.

LEAF AND DEBRIS COLLECTION AND REMOVAL (Weekly-Invoiced Monthly)

SCOPE OF WORK

Work consists of collecting and removing all fallen leaves, nuts, twigs, and other natural debris from the cemetery grounds in its entirety to include the immediate area outside the cemetery walls and/or fences bordering the cemetery grounds. All fallen leaves, nuts, twigs, pinecones, and other natural debris must be removed to keep a debris free appearance throughout the cemetery in accordance with the NCA Standards and Measures. Mulching of leaves may sometimes be permitted. Contractor will coordinate with COR to determine which will be performed.

At no point shall debris, to include, but not limited to, leaves and or grass clippings be blown onto bordering roadways as a means of removal from cemetery grounds.

Leaf and debris collection and removal shall be accomplished throughout the year; with peak times October 1 through January 31 or as required/specified by COR. All fallen leaves and debris must be removed during this period, except when delayed by the onset of severe weather conditions. Random inspections shall be conducted by the COR.

The Contractor shall conduct daily inspections of the entire cemetery throughout the year to ensure there is no accumulation of leaves, nuts, twigs, and/or natural debris in any area.

Leaf collection/clearing must be performed weekly in accordance with NCA Standards and Measures.

Heavy accumulation of leaves, pine needles, nuts, twigs and/or natural debris as seen during severe weather, and/or peak leaf season may require certain areas to be collected more frequently than weekly as directed by the COR or Cemetery Leadership.

Leaves, pine needles, nuts, twigs, and other natural debris shall be hand raked, vacuumed or machine blown from the interment areas into the roadways and then collected and properly disposed. Cemetery grounds, as defined above, include the areas outside of the perimeter fence to adjacent roadways.

Any accumulation of mulched leaves or natural debris shall be removed by the Contractor no later than the next business day and disposed of off cemetery grounds at the contractor’s expense.

2. UNDERGOUND SPRINKLER SYSTEM OPERATION, INSPECTION, AND MAINTENANCE

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements which form a part of these

Standard 5.2.4: Visually prominent areas have a well-established, healthy stand of turf.

SCOPE

Work consists of monitoring, operation, and maintenance of the installed Rainbird 2-wire irrigation system. The Contractor shall assume responsibility for the irrigation system “as is “; as irrigation system is operational and fully functional. According to installation specifications, Mountain Home National Cemetery has approximately +/- 15 acres of irrigated turf.

The work specified herein shall be provided to facilitate the successful and ongoing operation of an automatically controlled underground landscape irrigation system, including system controllers and control devices, control valves, sprinkler heads and accessible field wiring, and startup in the spring and shutdown in the fall if required or designated by COR.

Irrigation parts required for repair(s) shall be supplied by the government.

All labor for repairs shall be charged at the hourly rate indicated in the schedule and broken down into quarterly hours (15 min) increments as appropriate. Labor Rates for Irrigation repairs to be provided on an “As-Needed/ As-Requested” bases.

Contractor and COR will inventory parts needed for frequent repairs. Designated location of parts will be established and maintained by the government. If additional parts are needed for a repair and not on hand, Contractor will notify COR with a list and specifics of what is needed for repair for the government to purchase.

The Contractor shall keep an Irrigation Repair Log, which shall be provided to the COR monthly, or more frequently if requested by the COR.

INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE

This contract shall include all irrigation system startup and operation, as well as shutdown if required. It also includes regular diagnostic and repair service, including emergency callback service, and periodic inspections and preventative maintenance of all above-ground system components, controllers, control devices, and replacing damaged or inoperable sprinkler heads, valves, heads, solenoids, and other irrigation components (per the COR).

System shall be operated efficiently to keep turfgrass and other landscape plants healthy, without being over-watered or drought stressed. The contractor shall be required to perform the following:

Underground Irrigation Systems with Stand-Alone Controllers

• Provide monthly examination of irrigation system by walking site and performing a thorough inspection of grounds and irrigation components. Contractor shall observe the sprinkler for 2 full rotations in all zones. 1x monthly and make report available to COR within 5 working days of the month.

• During each inspection, prepare a list of all trouble spots and problem issues that are visibly identifiable. In addition, review system operation with on-site operators to determine and record additional issues experienced during daily operation that may not be readily observable.

• In accordance with inspection notes, physically inspect all field controllers, including visible wiring in controller cabinet. Adjust controller programs to reflect site specific requirement, seasonal changes, and cemetery staff needs.

• Visibly inspect controller grounding grid for good mechanical connection.

• Verify operation of all irrigation valves and spray devices by manually running each station on each controller 4x annually.

• Adjust spray devices to assure proper spray pattern and radius of water pattern as identified within a 5-day period.

• Repair or replace any broken or malfunctioning spray devices as identified with a 5-day period. Repair shall be performed by contractor. Replacement parts shall be furnished by the government.

• Verify that all flow sensors are operating properly. Recalibrate as required to meet manufacturer’s recommendations. 1x annually

• Verify that all system master valves are operating properly. Perform preventive maintenance service to valves to meet manufacturer’s recommendations. 2x annually.

• Inspect and clean as needed all filtering devices on irrigation system 5 times annually, including but not limited to mainline filters, drip line filter, and spray head filter devices.

• Test all controller grounding for proper resistance according to equipment manufacturers’ recommendations. Provide written report detailing grounding resistance for each controller, highlighting deficient ground locations, and notifying the site manager of required action.

2x annually

Underground Irrigation Systems with Computer-based Central Control.

• Shall be performed monthly when in operation, and specific items also addressed as needed when problems are noted, or more frequently if recommended by the manufacturer.

• Perform all system inspection and maintenance tasks as outlined in the previous section for Underground Irrigation Systems with Stand-Alone Controllers.

• Routinely check laptop’s software event logs (located in the Cemetery Grounds

Supervisor’s office) to verify system has been operating properly. Adjust program settings in the software and make required program modifications to respond to site issues or problems as necessary as weather and season dictates.

• Verify communication is intact between Central Control computer and all field controller devices. Check program schedules for proper operation and adjust, if necessary, weekly.

• Verify system back-up function is programmed and working properly. Perform system back-up, provide back-up storage device to site manager for safe storage in remote locations weekly.

• Verify that system Weather Station (if applicable) is operating properly monthly if equipped, rain gauge if equipped. Perform preventive maintenance service to Weather Station/rain gauge to meet manufacturer’s recommendations.

• When notified by the COR of possible damaged, broken, or inoperable irrigation turf rotors and irrigation box lids, the contractor shall schedule an inspection of the identified damaged, broke, or inoperable irrigation turf rotors and irrigation box lids within 72 hours, however Contractor will ensure the site is covered with safety cones, plywood, or another barrier immediately to prevent injury. The contractor shall supply the COR a written report as to his or her finding no more than five (5) days after being notified. The contractor shall furnish exact replacement items and equipment for any item needing to be replaced. The contractor shall coordinate with the COR for a service repair start date and time range.

Place an orange safety cone over broken irrigation box lids until repaired or replaced to prevent trip hazards.

• Troubleshoot and repair faulty valves, heads, solenoids, and other components if required.

Contractor is to repair all leaks in the system up to and including 6–8-inch pipe when needed. Contractor will dig to expose pipes, heads, clear around boxes, and installation of solenoids / valves as required and refill holes to within 1" of grade to accept sod.

Troubleshoot and repair Rainbird 2-wire Irrigation System to include internet connectivity for irrigation controllers during monthly decks and as needed. This includes monthly inspection, diagnostics, and repair for the irrigation pumps.

• Mountain Home National Cemetery shall furnish all pipe, valves, sprinkler and other materials required to make repair to irrigation system.

WORK NOT INCLUDED

Any work determined to still be under warranty from other contract work and/or not include in this statement of work shall be identified to the COR immediately.

4.2.1 Irrigation System Pump Station Services

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

Standard 5.2.4: Visually prominent areas have a well-established, healthy stand of turf.

SCOPE

Provide irrigation pump station(s) maintenance and service repairs. Service shall include the preventative maintenance and repair services for pressure booster pumps, jockey pumps, submersible pumps, electric motors, electrical switches, valves and filters and all other components required for full operations based on manufacturer's Operations and Maintenance manuals.

This service is designed to provide efficient equipment during full time operation(s); extend the life of the units;

identify potential problems before major breakdowns occur; and reduce system downtime. Where the pump station requires “spring start-up” and “winterization”, the Irrigation Pump Station preventive maintenance service must provide step-by-step procedures for decommissioning and recommissioning of the pump station service that is performed to COR.

DESCRIPTION

Work must be performed by a qualified electrical and/or pump service technician. Pump service technicians must be certified by the pump station operations or have a minimum of 5 years’ experience servicing pumps by the pump station manufacturer. Prior to initiation of contract, provide copies of documents and/or certificates showing technicians meet this requirement to the COR.

Provide a minimum of 2 yearly preventative maintenance services, plus one or more additional emergency visits per year if required. At least 1 (one) of these preventative maintenances’ services shall be scheduled in late winter/early spring in preparation for spring growth season.

Irrigation Pump Station Services (as applicable).

Provide the routine irrigation pump station services listed below in accordance with the pump station manufacturer’s printed Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Manuals. Obtain a copy of the O&M Manuals from the COR:

• Visual inspection of pump station(s).

• Evaluate pump station operation at various flows. Take voltage and current rating and compare it to last report.

• Check all safety shutdown features.

• Confirm pump station is operating properly.

• Check tightness on flange and motor bolts.

• Check and verify PRV and High-Pressure Relief Valve operation. Adjust valves as required.

• Check coupling alignment on pump(s).

• Grease or oil motor bearing(s).

• Change motor bearing oil once a year.

• Check stuffing box/packing glands for leakage. Tighten/replace as needed.

• Open-wye strainer blow-down valve to provide heat exchanger flush.

• Inspect basket strainers, clean debris from interior and screens, check screen for wear, and reassemble.

• Inspect and tighten all electrical connections in electrical panel.

• Conduct Infrared Temperature Check (check electrical panels for hot spots, defective transformers and detect loose connections).

• Inspect contactors for pitting and excessive wear.

• Remove and clean diaphragm and pilots on safety relief valve.

• Inspect Inverter and PLC and/or Starting Equipment.

• Verify all surge devices are visually sound.

• Check pressurized water tanks for leakage and pressure holding capabilities. Note flow from well (gpm), pump cut in (psi), pump cut out (psi), and tank pre-charge pressures (psi) on service record.

• Verify all electrical connectors are at proper torque settings.

• Verify electrical grounding of the motor armatures.

• Clean/change all cooling filters and grills.

• Remove all dirt and dust that has penetrated the unit interior, and that has accumulated on the processor board.

• Clean station pumps, motors, control panel and associated components.

• Clean pump house interior and/or clean pump station yards within the fenced enclosures of trash, dirt and debris.

• Clear water intake structure of debris.

• Repair any irrigation pump system component (quote for repairs shall be provided and approved to COR before repair work can be performed).

Pump Station Filters Services (as applicable).

Provide routine maintenance for pump station filters per the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Manual. Obtain a copy of the O&M Manual from the COR:

• Provide written service report to COR within 5 days of each visit, and alert COR of any recommended repairs above and beyond routine maintenance.

• Visual inspection of pump filter.

• Open and close by-pass valves to exercise valves.

• Clean mini filter.

• Inspect plastic tubing.

• Check flush valve for proper operation.

• Check wire and lug connections.

• Clean exterior of equipment.

• Remove the main filter screen and check for wear and tear. Re-install.

• Inspect dirt collector, flush valve, piston and differential pressure gauge.

• Annually, inspect for wear and tear: cover seal; fine screen; dirt collection nozzles; air/water connections; O-rings; piston; dirt collector.

COR shall be notified of any and all recommended or required service repairs above and beyond routine maintenance.

Contractor shall provide a written service report to COR within 5 days of each visit, and alert COR of any recommended/required service repairs above and beyond routine maintenance.

All quotes shall be submitted quote to COR. A notice to proceed must be given to contractor prior to any repair service is to be performed to irrigation pump station(s).

3. GRAVESITE MAINTENANCE

4.3.1 SUNKEN GRAVE AND GROUNDS REPAIR (Casket Sites)

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

NCA Cemetery Operations Operational Standards and Measures, Dec 2023 Category 5, Grounds Maintenance Sub-Category 2: Turf / Mineral Base o Standard 2.8: The grade of every gravesite blends in with adjacent grade levels.

• Measure 2.8: Sunken graves have been identified and a plan of action developed to re-establish the ground level and cover within 30 calendar days of the date identified.

Category 8, Safety Sub-Category 1: Operations o Standard 1.2: In accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s

(OSHA) Walking Working Surfaces: All areas where cemetery operations have been conducted are neat, clean, and free of debris and equipment at the end of the workday.

• Measure 1.2a: Roads, sidewalks, paths, and parking lots open to the public or for cemetery operations during adverse conditions are safe and accessible (e.g., clear of ice and snow or storm debris).

• Measure 1.2b: Safety hazards (holes, hazardous trees and branches, sprinkler heads, etc.)

identified and corrective action initiated within the same workday.

SCOPE OF WORK

Work consists of refilling, compacting, and leveling sunken casket grave sites with suitable soil to match existing adjacent graves and reestablishing the turfgrass.

The cemetery will be checked for sunken areas and washouts and when found they shall be filled immediately. Sites must be visually appealing with no gaps between turf and level with adjacent sites.

Damage to the grounds occurs due to pests and can be the cause of injury to visitors and personnel. The cemetery will be checked for pest holes regularly and when found they shall be filled within 30 calendar days of discovery unless they pose an immediate safety concern. If it is determined to be a safety concern, they will be filled immediately upon discovery.

Turf Type Tall fescue sod shall be supplied by the contractor for this scope of work. Amount and delivery of sod will coordinate with COR for cemetery operations awareness.

The cemetery receivables -Turf Type Tall fescue, Top soil and Chat Soil Amendment listed in Sections 5 Materials received; 5.1 Turf Type Tall Fescue Sod; 5.2 Topsoil; and 5.3 Chat Soil Amendment of this SOW shall be omitted from this section and scope of work.

The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to provide sunken grave, grounds, and turf repair services.

The re-use of turf-type tall fescue (TURF TYPE TALL FESCUE) sod in place is the preferred remediation approach. However, subject to the availability of sod, and the time of year, seeding with TURF TYPE TALL FESCUE or turf-type Perennial Ryegrass (TURF TYPE PERENNIAL RYEGRASS) with a purity level of over 98% is a suitable alternative and shall require approval in writing by the COR.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

A sunken grave casket site is defined as any gravesite that has receded two (2) inches from the existing adjacent grade. Standard graves excavated and backfilled are approximately three and one-half feet wide and approximately eight feet long in crypt sections and could be 5’ x 10’ in traditional sections.

Damage to casket sites occur due to excessive rainfall, pests, fungus, or poor landscape and horticulture practices and can be the cause of injury to visitors and personnel. The cemetery shall be checked for sunken grave sites, holes, and/or washouts within burial sections and, when found, shall be filled within 30 calendar days of discovery unless they pose an immediate safety concern. If it is determined to be a safety concern, they will be filled immediately upon discovery.

The Contractor will identify and immediately report sunken graves sites requiring repair. The contractor shall report all identified sunken casket grave sites by section and grave number prior to being repaired/ fixed to the COR for verification and inspection. Cemetery staff will be responsible for repairing/fixing graves that have sunk/settled within 60 days from the date of interment.

Partially sunken grave sites may occur after weather events. This can appear as a small to medium hole outlining the grave or headstone setting. When found, partially sunken graves shall be filled within 30 calendar days of discovery unless they pose an immediate safety concern. If it is determined to be a safety concern, they will be filled immediately upon discovery.

Any graves identified as sunken must be secured by the contractor with safety barriers until repairs can be accomplished, by grave boards or cones to prevent injury to visitors and personnel.

Small holes within the casket section caused by pests will be repaired immediately due to the danger they pose to personnel visiting or working on the grounds. Repaired holes will be filled, and hand tamped. The area will then be sodded as required.

The Contractor shall keep a Sunken Grave / Damaged Grounds Log which shall be provided to the COR monthly, or more frequently if requested by the COR.

PROCEDURE

Sunken grave sites shall have sod cut out and be filled with approved select backfill and tamped to within two (2) inches of established grade. Topsoil capable of growing healthy grasses shall be added. Sod will then be replaced to bring the gravesite to established grade. The disturbed area shall then be raked free of stones and any debris larger than one (1) inch measured in any direction.

The Contractor shall be responsible for the removal and disposal of dead turf and shall refill the site with quality topsoil, or topsoil/fertilizer mix, capable of growing healthy grasses shall be added. The disturbed area shall then be raked free of stones and any debris larger than one (1) inch measured in any direction.

Whenever possible, sod should be reutilized from area of removal. Area should be tamped level after filling the hole.

The cemetery shall be responsible for purchase and storage of sod.

Turf type tall fescue Sod shall be square in shape and no less than 12 inches. All sod borders shall be uniform in appearance. All borders of sod squares/sections shall be married, and hand tamped in such a manner as to prevent gaps, trip hazards, and encourage proper regrowth. as specified to bring the gravesite to established grade.

Healthy turf must be reestablished within sixty (30) days of repair.

**NOTE: COR(s) shall inspect sunken grave repair, to ensure it meets the National Cemetery standards and measures.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

No substitution of sod type, weight, or application without the specific requested to do so and is approved in writing by, the Contacting Officer Representative and Southeast District (SED) Agronomist. Sod is to be free of all noxious weeds, insects, and diseases.

Only the turf type tall fescue cultivars of sod specified and currently in area of work performed that have been adapted in the State of Tennessee and certified by the State Agronomy Testing Laboratory (University of TN) will be accepted. Any substitution of sod type, weight, or application shall be specifically approved by the COR in writing.

The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing and watering of all newly sodded areas and maintaining them in a healthy and vigorous condition.

Rather than operating the irrigation system only for individual gravesites where sod is being established, those gravesites shall be spot watered with hoses or other watering methods as needed when routine irrigation or rainfall is insufficient for the new sod.

• Newly installed sod shall be watered within 1/2 hour of installation.

• Newly installed sod shall be watered daily - to the point of saturation - for the first two weeks. The Contractor shall begin less frequent and deeper watering after the first two weeks.

• Weather conditions will dictate the amount and frequency of watering.

All repaired areas shall be sodded within thirty (30) days of repair. Healthy turf shall be re-established within sixty (60) days of repair completion during the growing season.

The Contractor shall, at his/her own expense, replace any sod which has died or been damaged during the establishment period.

GUARANTEE

The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing and watering all sodded areas and maintaining them in a healthy and vigorous condition. Spot watering will be accomplished with hoses or other watering methods; irrigation will not be used for watering individual sites.

The Contractor shall, at their own expense, replace any sod which has died, been damaged during the establishment period, been damaged as result of contractor error or negligence during grounds and/or turf maintenance operations to include trimming, etc., or improperly applied chemical sprays/applications/treatments.

Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds or equipment during Contractor-lead grounds maintenance operations must be reported to the COR immediately. Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds, or equipment due to contractor error and/or negligence shall be the responsibility of the Contractor and shall be repaired/replaced at Contractor’s expense.

4.3.2 SUNKEN CREMATION AND SMALL AREA GROUNDS REPAIRS

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

NCA Cemetery Operations Operational Standards and Measures, Dec 2023 Category 5, Grounds Maintenance Sub-Category 2: Turf / Mineral Base o Standard 2.8: The grade of every gravesite blends in with adjacent grade levels.

• Measure 2.8: Sunken graves have been identified and a plan of action developed to re-establish the ground level and cover within 30 calendar days of the date identified.

Category 8, Safety Sub-Category 1: Operations o Standard 1.2: In accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s

(OSHA) Walking Working Surfaces: All areas where cemetery operations have been conducted are neat, clean, and free of debris and equipment at the end of the workday.

• Measure 1.2a: Roads, sidewalks, paths, and parking lots open to the public or for cemetery operations during adverse conditions are safe and accessible (e.g., clear of ice and snow or storm debris).

• Measure 1.2b: Safety hazards (holes, hazardous trees and branches, sprinkler heads, etc.)

identified and corrective action initiated within the same workday.

Areas needing repair will be identified by the COR. Repairs will be made in 1-square foot increments.

Areas may include sunken In-Ground Cremation sites, excavation sites for irrigation repair, turf damaged by equipment, etc.

Areas addressed in section of this SOW 4.3.1 SUNKEN GRAVE AND GROUNDS REPAIR (Casket Sites) shall not be addressed in this section.

The contractor shall report all sunken cremation and small areas within the cremation section needing ground repair by sections, prior to being repaired to the COR for verification and inspection.

Contractor will be responsible for repair of inground cremation burial site or small areas which will be filled within 30 calendar days of discovery unless they pose an immediate safety concern. If it is determined to be a safety concern, they will be filled immediately upon discovery.

Turf Type Tall fescue sod shall be supplied by the contractor for this scope of work. Amount and delivery of sod will coordinate with COR for cemetery operations awareness.

The cemetery receivables -Turf Type Tall fescue, Top soil and Chat Soil Amendment listed in Sections 5 Materials received; 5.1 Turf Type Tall Fescue Sod; 5.2 Topsoil; and 5.3 Chat Soil Amendment of this SOW shall be omitted from this section and scope of work.

The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to provide sunken grave, grounds, and turf repair services.

remediation approach. However, subject to the availability of sod, and the time of year, seeding with TURF TYPE TALL FESCUE or turf-type Perennial Ryegrass (TURF TYPE PERENNIAL RYEGRASS) with a purity level of over 98% is a suitable alternative and shall require approval in writing by the COR.

Work consists of refilling, compacting, and leveling of inground cremation burial and small areas sites with suitable soil to match existing adjacent grounds and reestablishing the turfgrass.

The cemetery will be checked for holes and washouts and when found they shall be filled within 30…