Annex F Grounds Maintenance.docx

Annex F-Maintenance Grounds PWS Fort Gordon, GA. Base Operations (BASOPS)

Annex F—Maintenance Grounds Performance Work Statement (PWS)

Base Operations and Maintenance Contract

Fort Gordon, Georgia

Annex F-Maintenance Grounds PWS Fort Gordon, GA. Base Operations (BASOPS)

Contents

1.0 General Information.

1.1. Overview.

The Contractor shall inspect, repair and maintain all existing buildings, structures, and their components listed in Technical Exhibit (TE) A-6.2, Fort Gordon Facility Listing, (RPI). The Contractor shall provide sustainment of vertical facilities such as buildings and all utilities plant structures within the five (5) foot demarcation line, excluding Army Family Housing. Alterations and minor construction, as approved by the COR, in accordance with AR 420-1, Army Facilities Management, and current industry standards. The Contractor will coordinate with the Directorate of Public Works (DPW) Environmental Division, if within a historic facility, see Technical Exhibit (TE) A-6-3 Fort Gordon Historical Facility Listing.

1.1.1. General.

1.1.2. The work shall include scheduling and performance of mowing and trimming; turf replacement; leaf and debris removal; tree, hedge, and shrub planting, maintenance, irrigation, and fertilization; policing of areas; tree and stump removal, and other associated work as directed by the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). The Contractor shall provide all work necessary to maintain the grounds to the standards specified herein.

1.1.3. Coordination.

1.1.4. The goal is to support mission accomplishment by providing well maintained grounds for users, residents, and visitors to the installation. To meet this goal, close coordination is required between the Contractor and the COR to efficiently provide grounds maintenance while minimizing disruptions to operations within facility areas and meeting security requirements.

Specific areas receiving grounds maintenance under this contract may be changed as facilities are built, facilities change, and facilities are taken out of service. Most of these tasks will be accomplished in accordance with (IAW) specified standards and frequencies during the eight (8th) month grass growing period (typically, 1 March through 31 October).

Additionally, these activities will be accomplished three (3) times during the four (4) month green waste (i.e., pine straw, leaves, pine cones, etc.) collection period occurring during the months of November through February. However, these services may also be required by the Government to be performed earlier than or extend beyond these dates depending on changes in weather and climatic conditions. If required, the contract will be modified accordingly.

1.2. Contractor Furnished Equipment.

1.2.1 The Contractor shall provide all personnel, management, administrative support, labor, equipment, tools, supplies, transportation, and other items and services necessary to perform Improved Grounds Maintenance as defined in this PWS except as specified in TE A-6.11, Government Furnished Equipment.

2.0 Description of Services.

2.1. Scope.

2.1.1 The Contractor shall provide Grounds Maintenance for all High Visibility (Improved Grounds), Cantonment Area (Semi-Improved Common Areas Grounds), Ranges, and Unimproved Grounds as required. The Contractor shall ensure all work accomplished maintains and presents a healthy, clean, neat, and professional appearance to all grounds included and covered by this contract in support of mission requirements for users, residents, and visitors.

2.1.2 General.

The Contractor shall mow grass only when the minimum height is reached or exceeded as indicated by the Work Capability Levels table in section 3.0 of this Annex. Prior to mowing the Contractor shall pick up and remove all rubbish, debris and trash (which includes, but is not limited to, leaves, rocks, paper, cups, plastic/glass bottles, pine cones, limbs and other portable objects) within the maintenance area and all trash, papers, leaves and limbs lodged in shrubs, hedges, fences and along foundation walls. The Contractor shall set the mower height to three (3) inches for all areas. The Contractor shall replace any new trees or shrubs planted that die within one (1) year, at no cost to the Government. All work shall be performed by personnel qualified IAW applicable laws, regulations, and TE A-6.9, Contractor Personnel Minimum Qualifications, Licensing, and Certifications.

2.1.3 Applicable Laws and Regulations.

All work performed by the Contractor shall be IAW all applicable laws, regulations, including the INRMP; AR 420-1, Army Facilities Management; AR 200-1, Environmental Protection and Enhancement; USASC&FG Regulation 420-7, Facilities Engineering, Endangered Species Regulations; and accepted commercial practices.

2.1.4 Maps.

Grass mowing maps in TE F-012, Fort Gordon Area of Responsibility Map, and TE F-001, Range Mowing Map, show the extent and general location of mowing and trimming to be accomplished. The maps, although basically diagrammatic for clarity and legibility, may be shown to scale where possible. In the event of conflict concerning boundaries, the Contractor shall request a written definition of the boundary in question from the COR. If the Contractor believes that the number of acres listed in the attachments is in error, the Contractor shall have the area surveyed and stamped by a licensed land surveyor at no expense to the Government and shall submit a copy of the survey with a request for review of the area to the COR. Adjustments, if applicable, will be applied to the contract after the change is made to the attachment and a contract modification is issued.

2.1.5 The COR reserves the right to make contract adjustments as a result of area closures, emergencies, etc.

2.1.6 Cease Mowing.

The Government has the right to cease mowing at any time due to weather conditions.

2.1.7 Holiday and Unsafe Weather or Other Delays.

Work delays due to Federal holidays, unsafe weather conditions, and/or other causes beyond the Contractor's control (including access to work areas and vehicles in parking lots overhanging curbs and grassed areas) shall not constitute grounds for continued nonperformance. The Contractor is responsible for mowing and maintaining these areas in a timely manner and shall notify the COR of problems regarding access to work areas. Rainfall is not an adequate reason for additional days in the performance period. For unsafe weather conditions, delays are only acceptable if the area to be mowed was recently flooded or there are safety concerns due to imminent lightning. Flooded areas should be avoided and noted for COR concurrence, and mowed on the next available appropriate day. Any work performed beyond normal duty hours and/or non-scheduled days shall be performed at no additional cost to the Government and must be coordinated with the COR.

2.1.8 Non-operating Hours.

Work may be performed during non-operating hours when approved by the COR. The Contractor shall submit a written request to the KO a minimum of two (2) working days in advance when requesting to perform work on days other than Monday through Friday. Deliverable F0001, Request to Perform Work During Non-Operating Hours. The written request shall state the type of work, areas where the work will be performed, and hours of performance.

2.1.9 Scheduled Improved Grounds Maintenance Services.

TE F-012, Fort Gordon Area of Responsibility Map, and TE F-002, Grounds Sections, identify which areas belong to each Service Support Program (SSP), any special security considerations, and any constraints as to when during the day or week scheduled service can be performed to the area. TE F-003, High Visibility Improved Grounds Maintenance Areas Frequency Schedule, and TE F-004, Common Semi-Improved Grounds Maintenance Areas Frequency Schedule, identify tasks and frequencies as the performance level for that SSP.

2.1.10 Daily Progress Reports.

The Contractor shall provide to the COR, by 0800 hours each morning, Monday thru Friday, a list of the areas cut on the previous day that are ready for inspection. Deliverable F0002, Daily Progress Reports. Areas ready for inspection will be inspected the day after being cut, with the exception of areas cut on Friday and Saturday, which will be inspected on the following workday. Services that do not conform to the contract requirements shall be re-performed within twenty-four (24) hours after the COR provides verbal or written notification of defect.

2.1.11 Special Events.

Project Improved Grounds Maintenance (Special Events, Routine and Emergency) shall be performed when ordered.

2.1.12 Work Management.

GFEBS shall be used by the Contractor to manage grounds maintenance activities.

2.1.12.1 Demand Maintenance Orders (DMO).

The purpose of this requirement is to support specific customer requests (generally from troops) for the delivery of materials. The Government will approve all materials to be delivered to location on the installation. The Contractor shall deliver material to the exact location as specified by the DMO. Any materials required for completion of the DMO shall only be delivered to the requester of the DMO. The COR shall approve DMOs prior to accomplishment for grounds maintenance.

2.1.12.2 Emergency Work.

The Contractor shall provide an emergency work point of contact on a twenty-four (24) hours-per-day, seven (7) days-a-week basis. The Contractor’s response times are defined in Annex A and Annex H of this PWS. All personnel engaged in arboricultural operations shall be instructed in the correct procedures for emergency response, including 911 calls and other applicable emergency phone numbers. See 2.9.9.12.1.1 Emergency Reporting Procedures.

2.1.13 Specific Tasks.

2.1.13.1 Grounds.

The Contractor shall cut grass in areas according to the standards required herein. Mowing shall result in a smooth cut of uniform height. The Contractor shall not disturb flags that mark underground utilities.

2.1.13.2 Mowing debris and clippings shall be removed from surfaced areas immediately after completion of mowing operations. Water shall not be used to remove clippings from roadways or other paved areas. In highly visible areas, Contractor shall collect and dispose of grass clippings, or shall use mulch-type mowers when grass height does not exceed 3-1/2 inches. In other areas, grass cuttings shall be left on the ground. In conjunction with mowing services, the Contractor shall remove trash and debris buildup.

2.1.13.3 Vegetation shall be trimmed around manmade objects.

Trimming height shall match surrounding area grass heights. All areas shall be trimmed, or edged as required, within twenty-four (24) hours of every mowing operation. The Contractor may, with proper approval, from DPW Environmental Division/Installation Pest Management Coordinator use herbicides or mechanical means or a combination of both to accomplish trimming.

2.1.13.4 Vegetation that lies on the perimeter of a hardstand surface (i.e. such as a parking area) shall be cut IAW the corresponding level of service for that area. In such an event that the Contractor is unable to mow or trim in the perimeter areas because of vehicle overhang or any other object which inhibits performance, the Contractor shall return to that area during an alternate time to ensure performance as soon as possible. These areas may need to be maintained after regular business hours or on weekends to ensure completion in a timely manner.

2.1.13.5 Areas adjacent to construction areas shall be maintained IAW the corresponding level of service for that area. When a clear construction area boundary is not evident, such as a silt fence, the boundary for mowing shall be directed by the COR.

2.1.13.6 Vegetation growing within rip rap stone areas may be removed using appropriate approved herbicide at the direction of the COR.

2.1.13.7 Debris within the improved grounds footprint shall be removed and disposed prior to each mowing. Debris removal is included in all levels of service for improved and unimproved ground and is the Contractor’s responsibility prior to mowing each area. Debris may consist of all natural debris (tree limbs, dry brush, dead animals, etc.) and man-made debris (paper, bottles, cans, rags, etc.). Disposal of collected debris shall be IAW existing installation, Federal, and State regulations. Natural debris may be composted or recycled. The Contractor is not responsible for large storm debris items which require more than one man to re-locate. Large storm debris will be considered for accomplishment via PWO. Normal grounds maintenance debris can be disposed at a COR authorized site on Fort Gordon.

2.1.13.8 Areas damaged by Contractor’s vehicles or any action by the Contractor in the performance of this contract shall be (repaired) seeded, sprigged, or re-sod to meet the standards of surrounding areas. Repair or replacement shall occur within ten (10) days of damage and be completed at the Contractor’s expense.

2.1.13.9 Road shoulders adjacent to areas requiring mowing shall be mowed and trimmed.

2.1.13.10 Grass cutting includes removal of litter/debris and small animals weighing less than ten (10) pounds in the way of mowing, preparation of area, trimming, and cleanup. Grass clippings shall be removed or mulched when visible after mowing. Normal visibility areas within the cantonment include security clear zones.

2.1.13.11 Sidewalks, driveways, curbs, and other concrete or asphalt edges located in the improved and semi-improved grounds areas shall be edged, including removal of vegetation from cracks in sidewalks, driveways, and curbs to a depth of one half (1/2) inch and within one half (1/2) inch of the edged surface. The use of string trimmers for edging is prohibited. All edgers shall have safety shields and deflectors.

2.1.13.12 Grass and weeds shall be trimmed around trees, shrubs, buildings, fences, poles, posts, fire hydrants, parking lot wheel stops, boulders, and other fixed obstacles. Trimming height shall match surrounding area grass heights. Damage to trees and shrubs from trimming shall be repaired by the Contractor. If a plant dies or becomes unhealthy due to damage, the Contractor shall be responsible for replacing the damaged plant with a plant of same size and type. Plant replacement shall occur within fifteen (15) days of damage. All trimmers shall have safety shields and deflectors.

2.1.13.13 Mowing debris and clippings shall be removed from heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) air intake screens, coils, and similar items.

2.1.13.14 The removal and disposal of all natural debris (trees, tree limbs, dry brush, rodent habitats, dead animals, etc.), man-made debris, and fallen leaves will be directed by the COR. The Contractor shall remove rodents and the bodies of cats, skunks, or other animals from the installation. Disposal shall be performed by placement and liming of carcasses in the dumpster near the game warden’s office at Fort Gordon.

Note: “Gut Pit” disposal of animal carcasses is no longer allowed by Subtitle D regulations under RCRA, all animals must be placed into a MSWLF as per State Regulation 391-3-4, due to chronic wasting disease control.

The Contractor shall make recovery and disposal within eight (8) hours after notification of the presence of dead or dying rodents or other animals. In the event that noxious odors indicate the presence of dead rodents or other animals in inaccessible areas, the Contractor shall make every effort to locate and remove the carcass and will apply an effective deodorizer at the time of discovery or within four hours after notification of such a condition. Disposal of all debris at an installation approved location shall be in accordance with existing installation, Federal, State, and local regulations.

2.1.13.15 Periodic treatment of lawns includes fertilizing, liming, aeration, mulching, overseeding, and weed control as identified. All weeds shall be controlled by either removing or eradicating manually or mechanically, but not chemically. Chemicals will be used only with approval from the DPW Environmental Division. Specific approval must be obtained each time from the DPW Environmental Division/Installation Pest Management Coordinator for chemical applications. The Contractor shall provide the yearly schedule for lawn treatment services to the COR thirty (30) days after contract award and annually. Deliverable F0003, Yearly Schedule for Lawn Treatment.

2.2.13.16 Soil samples shall be taken from twenty (20) locations on improved grounds as designated by the COR and submitted to a Government approved laboratory for analysis of nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, pH, and micronutrient. The Contractor shall collect, package and submit the samples to the laboratory. The Contractor shall furnish the COR the results within five (5) working days of receipt with Contractor recommendations in addition to the labs. The areas to be sampled will be identified by the COR.

2.1.13.17 Landscaping includes trimming shrubs, removal of dead debris, planting of perennials and annuals, repairing or replacing damaged plants in shrub and plant beds, and mulching beds as directed. Replacement plants must be native and shall match previous plants when possible. The following landscaped areas (i.e., flowerbeds) are considered complete and require recurring maintenance: (1) Darling Hall, (2) Post Office, (3) Gate 6, (4) Heritage Park, (5) Gate #1, (6) POW/MIA site, and (7) Reviewing Stand.

a. Acceptable mulch material includes straw, wood fiber, grass straw cellulose fiber, peat moss, mature compost, straw for hydro seeding, bonded fiber matrix hydro mulch, or recycled pulp fiber. Placement depth of mulch shall be as required to keep planting area moist and facilitate growth, and as applicable, at an application rate according to manufacturer’s specifications.

b. Flowerbed management includes fertilization and maintenance associated with keeping plants blooming and full. Maintenance includes removal of all weeds from the bed with either mechanical or hand equipment. The Contractor may also use products that retard weeds, but allow growth of plants. Contractor shall replace mulch and washed out materials as necessary to maintain bedded plant areas. Contractor shall include application of organic plant food to maintain planting associated with the beds.

2.1.13.18 The Contractor shall perform grounds raking to remove leaves, pine straw, and other debris left over from and at the end of other grounds maintenance tasks. Contractor shall maintain straw or other debris placed under plants as mulch and protect from removal by raking. Grounds raking equipment shall consist of hand held rakes with flexible metal or plastic tines or tractor drawn rotating brush lawn sweepers. Metal rakes with rigid metal tines are strictly prohibited. Obstructions shall be removed in advance of raking in the same manner as for mowing.

2.1.13.19 Ranges shown in TE F-001, Range Mowing Map, shall be mowed, including removal of dead trees and limbs, as required to maintain required line of sight, ensure safety, and facilitate operational capability. Mowing may be limited to only firing points within indirect fire ranges. The Contractor shall contact the Installation Range Control Coordinator to obtain daily clearance for any service of Ranges. The Contractor shall document and provide, if requested, all clearances in writing. If a Range is closed due to live firing (red flag out) when the Contractor arrives, then the Contractor shall immediately contact the COR to verify with Range Control and provide documentation of event.

2.1.13.20 Vegetation growing in training and recreational areas which are composed of sand pits is considered improved grounds to be maintained. Vegetation shall be removed from the perimeter edges being trimmed. All areas shall be maintained concurrent with mowing in that area. The Contractor may with proper certification from DPW Environmental Division/Installation Pest Management Coordinator use herbicides or mechanical means or a combination of both to accomplish vegetation removal.

2.1.13.21 The Contractor shall maintain the seventy (70) installation cemeteries approximately 20.1 acres shown in TE F-005, Fort Gordon Cemeteries. The Contractor shall perform the following tasks every thirty (30) calendar days: grass cutting; cutting and trimming of dead wood, shrubs, and trees; mowing/raking of grass and leaves; and maintaining fences. All debris shall be moved to previously designated disposal sites. The Contractor shall perform the following tasks on a semi-annual basis during the months of October/November and April/May; grade entrance roads, shoulders, and firebreaks around perimeter. The Contractor will receive advance notice of burials/official visitations to be held at the post cemeteries. Approximately five (5) burials/official visitations occur each year. A visual survey of the appointed cemetery shall be made to verify that all maintenance tasks have been performed with any deficiencies corrected prior to time of burial/official visitation.

2.1.13.22 The Contractor shall be responsible for the grounds maintenance of the Land Mobile Radio (LMR) communication towers and structures depicted in TE H-011, Communication Towers, for TA-25 and TA-49. These areas are to be cut and trimmed on a quarterly basis. A five (5) foot clear zone shall be maintained on the perimeter of all fenced areas around towers and related structures/equipment.

2.1.13.23 Tree Inspection.

The Contractor shall inspect for dead, damaged, and diseased trees on a monthly basis and predetermined schedule such that all trees are inspected within an eight (8th) month time frame, with approximately 1/8th of the population of trees inspected per month. No later than the fifth (5th) working day of the month following each monthly inspection period, the Contractor shall provide a Tree Inspection Report documenting the results of each inspection in the format provided in the National Arborists Association, or as specified by the COR. Deliverable F0004, Basic Tree Risk Assessment Form.

The report shall identify by species, size, class and location, all hazardous trees as well as insect and disease problems that require immediate attention. The report shall include a specific plan of action for each target pest. All recommended work shall be identified by priority for placement in the maintenance schedule. The Contractor shall also include an itemized list of all dead and/or removed trees, as well as recommended new plantings as part of the report.

The Contractor shall submit to the COR no later than the fifth (5th) calendar day of each month a Tree Work Schedule showing tree work planned for the upcoming month which must be approved by the DPW Environmental and Natural Resource Division prior to commencement of work beyond the end of the current month Deliverable F004, Basic Tree Risk Assessment Form. The inspections are restricted to the cantonment area which is identified on TE F-006, Tree Inspection Zone Map.

2.1.13.24 Tree Removal Services.

The Contractor shall perform the following services: tree removal, stump removal, grounds restoration, disposal, chipping, and shredding in accordance with the INRMP; AR 420-1, Army Facilities Management; and USASC&FG Regulation 420-7, Facilities Engineering, Endangered Species Regulations, and accepted commercial practices as applicable.

a. The Contractor shall provide at least one (1) on-site supervisor to be physically present during work performance. This individual shall provide overall management and coordination of the grounds and surfaced areas operations.

b. Tree Removal, Disposal, Chipping, and Shredding. The Contractor shall provide all tree removal, disposal, chipping, and shredding services for all tree cutting and trimming requirements. All debris shall be disposed in the designated disposal areas.

c. Stump Removal. The Contractor shall remove all stumps from all downed, diseased, or dead trees. Disposal shall be in a designated disposal site.

d. Engineer Equipment Operators. Personnel shall have the necessary experience as a certified engineer equipment operator and shall possess and demonstrate operational skills and knowledge for the equipment.

2.1.13.25 Tree Trimming and Pruning.

The Contractor shall trim trees overhanging fences, vehicle crossings, building entrances and windows and signage.

a. Pruning and removal will be accomplished via a DMO or PWO. All trees shall be pruned according to their natural growth habit and in proper season by a qualified Arborist. This pruning will evenly form and balance the tree crown or branch reduction, promote proper health and growth, and provide clearance to prevent interference with pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Trees are to be pruned to a uniform height; tree growth around the base of the tree will be removed. The Contractor shall remove stakes and guy wires supporting ornamental and shade trees to promote proper health, growth, and appearance IAW the standards of the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service. Removal of stakes and guy wires will be required one (1) year after planting of the tree. All tree maintenance will be in strict compliance with the National Arborist Association, ANSI A300, ANSI Z133 and TE F-007 Tree Trimming and Pruning Schedule. All debris shall be disposed of IAW paragraph 2.1.6.31 of this Annex. Tree replacement shall be accomplished between November 1 and March 1 each year.

b. The Government requires a Certified Arborist on the job site at all times, and requires a copy of the Arborist’s certification. The Contractor shall provide copies of these licenses or certifications to the KO, not later than (NLT) thirty (30) calendar days prior to start of contract, and again within five (5) calendar days upon a change in personnel. Deliverable A0005, Licenses and Certifications.

c. The use of irons, spurs, or spikes are not to be use on trees to be pruned. Any tree damage caused by contractor is repaired immediately at no additional cost to the Government. The contractor shall replace trees damaged beyond repair with tree of the same size and type at no additional cost to the Government.

2.1.13.26 Clearing of Overhead Utility Lines.

As the electrical services provider under the Utilities Privatization contract, Georgia Power owns, operates, and maintains the electrical distribution system, including the clearing of trees, shrubs, etc. in accordance with utility standards. Typically, clearing of the overhead electrical lines will satisfy clearing requirements for situations of joint use of poles. In the event the Contractor is tasked to clear overhead utility lines via DMO or PWO, the work shall be performed IAW TE F-007, Tree Trimming and Pruning Schedule, and TE F-008 Line Clearing Specifications.

2.1.13.27 Clearing of Overhead Communications Lines.

The Network Enterprise Center (NEC) provides communication services at Fort Gordon. On occasion the NEC and others with Government owned communications systems may request the DPW to perform line clearing. If approved by DPW, this service will be performed on a reimbursable basis. DPW will issue a DMO or PWO to the Contractor who shall perform the work IAW TE F-007, Tree Trimming and Pruning Schedule, and TE F-008, Line Clearing Specifications.

2.1.13.28 Plant and Bush Trimming.

All shrubs, bushes, hedges, and other cultivated plants are to be trimmed according to their natural growth habit for proper health, attractive appearance in the appropriate season, and to prevent interference with pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

2.1.13.29 Shredding and Chipping Services.

The Contractor shall provide chipping and shredding services for all tree, bush, and shrub pruning and trimming requirements. All debris will be disposed in the designated disposal areas.

2.1.13.30 Safety Related Tree Issues.

The Contractor shall remove and dispose of all identified safety related tree issues. The work includes stump removal and grounds repair and restoration services. All debris shall be disposed in the designated disposal areas.

2.1.13.31 Grounds Repair.

Grassed areas damaged by vehicular traffic or maneuver training exercises shall be graded, seeded or sodded and irrigated as specified in TM 5-630, Natural Resources: Land Management, and/or the INRMP, until the desired grass is established to conform to adjacent turf areas. On high pedestrian traffic areas and road intersection shoulders roping off is required until the grass is established.

2.1.13.32 Debris Removal Services.

Foreign materials, bark, limbs, pine cones, dead vegetation and pine straw shall be removed from all areas, including walkways, stairways and curbs within or adjacent to the areas. All cuttings and debris resulting from the Contractor's operations and observations are to be removed from the work site prior to the end of the workday. Debris removal shall be performed to prevent unsightly or inordinate accumulations.

2.1.13.33 Storm Damage.

When the Contractor is notified to implement the Fort Gordon Severe Weather Emergency Action (SWEAP), the Contractor shall commence cleanup of wind and storm damage. The Contractor shall remove as priority work all fallen trees, limbs, and debris deposited by water runoff on improved grounds after periods of heavy wind, rainfall, snow, and/or ice accumulations. The Contractor shall dispose of storm debris in the previously designated areas. Routine maintenance work shall be suspended during periods of storm cleanup actions. Typically storm damage cleanup occurs one to two (2) times per year.

2.1.13.34 Mulching.

The Contractor shall maintain mulch throughout all flower, plant and shrub beds, and around designated ornamental and shade trees. Mulch shall be added to areas once per year between 1 November and 1 March to provide a minimum depth of three (3) inches and a maximum depth of four (4) inches and shall extend beyond the perimeter of beds to established borders such as sidewalks, pavements, curbs, or walls. In the absence of established borders, mulch shall extend to the drip line of perimeter plants and shrubs.

Mulch around designated ornamental and shade trees that are not growing in plant or shrub beds shall extend out from the base of each tree for a distance of eighteen (18) inches. Make sure the mulch is at least five (5) inches away from the trunk of the tree and no more than two (2) to four (4) inches deep do not creates a mulch volcano around the base of the tree. Mulch should be replenished or replaced at first sign of decomposition, soil erosion and discoloration.

2.1.13.35 Watering.

Landscaped areas shall be irrigated by use of installed or portable sprinklers during the growing season to promote healthy growth and color of flower and shrub plantings. Amounts of water to be applied shall be based on a daily water consumption rate by plants and shrubs. The irrigation rate must provide sufficient soil moisture to the root zone of plants for the support of vigorous, healthy growth. All identified landscaped areas shall be irrigated two (2) times per week from 15 March through 1 November, except when one (1) to one and one half (1 ½) inches of rainfall has occurred during a seven (7) day time period.

Irrigation of landscaped areas shall be IAW the application rates based on criteria in the INRMP. Water shall not be applied with such force as to displace mulch or damage ornamental vegetation. In the case of a prolonged drought, the Contractor shall water shrubs at the previously determined frequency. Watering during drought conditions shall be accomplished using water tanker trucks for those areas where a water supply is not readily available. All valves, covers, and valve box covers shall be kept closed at all times. Hoses, portable sprinklers, portable pipe, and similar irrigation equipment shall be removed from lawn areas at the end of each work day or when not actually in use and stored out of sight. Installed irrigation systems diagrams are displayed in TE H-002, Privatized Utilities Providers Lines of Demarcation.

2.1.13.36 Fertilizing of Landscaped Areas.

A fertilization program will need to be used to maintain trees and shrubs in a vigorous condition and to increase their resistance to injury from diseases and insects. However, the addition of any soil nutrient is recommended only if soil or plant foliage tests indicate a deficiency. Trees and shrubs which should not be fertilized include newly planted specimens and those with severe root damage from recent trenching or construction. The root systems of these plants will need to re-establish before fertilizers are applied. Older, established trees do not need to be fertilized every year.

The best time to fertilize is late April or early May, or late fall once plants are dormant. Fertilizing for landscaped areas shall be performed in split applications each year with one half (½) applied in March and the other half in July unless soil analysis results specify otherwise. Lime, when required by soil sample results, is to be applied during the November/ December time period. The Contractor shall provide the yearly schedule for lime and fertilizer treatment to the KO. Deliverable F0003, Yearly Schedule for Lawn Treatment. Only dolomitic agricultural lime shall be used.

2.1.13.37 Policing of Landscaped Areas.

The Contractor shall pick up and remove all rubbish, debris, and trash (which includes, but is not limited to, leaves, rocks, paper, cups, plastic/glass bottles, pine cones, limbs and other portable objects).

2.2 Service High Visibility Areas.

Developed areas of the installation that require an intensive level of maintenance. The work performed in these areas by the Contractor shall include mowing grass, edging and trimming grass, removing grass trimmings from paved areas, irrigating, aerating lawn areas, applying fertilizer and/or lime, applying herbicide to lawn and landscape areas, maintaining athletic fields, plants, shrubs, and flowers, performing seasonal planting of plants and flowers, removing leaves, applying mulch, pruning trees, removing grass from cracks in sidewalks and pavements, and litter control.

2.2.1 Mowing.

High Visibility Areas, approximately 159 acres, are indicated in the Installation Grounds Maps referenced in TE F-012, Fort Gordon Area of Responsibility Map. The DPW will provide historical data for grass cutting in TE F-002, Grounds Sections. The Contractor shall remove trash, litter, tree limbs, debris, etc., prior to mowing. Paved areas and walkways shall be free of lawn clippings/debris the same day the mowing is performed. Road shoulders adjacent to areas requiring mowing shall be mowed and trimmed. Newly-planted grass (seed or sod) shall be cut no lower than four (4) inches unless otherwise directed by COR.

The Contractor shall mulch, mow the grass, and remove visible grass clippings after mowing, before leaving the work area. The lawn shall be uniform in appearance, free of skips, gaps, rutting, or scalping. The Contractor shall be responsible for any damage incurred as a result of grass cutting operations. All grass cutting operations performed on the parade fields are defined in the drawings referenced in TE F-012 Fort Gordon Area of Responsibility Map.

2.2.2 Edging.

The Contractor shall edge to present a neat appearance. Edging responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, flowerbeds, mulched areas, sidewalks, driveways, street edges, curbs, and other concrete (except against asphalt edges) located in the Improved Grounds. Edging includes the removal of all grass or weeds sprouting from cracks in sidewalks, pavement, and curb joints. The use of post-emergent herbicides by the Contractor, for edging purposes, is limited to grass in cracks and shall not be used to edge the entire area. The Contractor shall collect and dispose of all edging debris the same day edging is performed.

2.2.3 Trimming.

The Contractor shall, in conjunction with grass cutting, trim grass and weeds around trees, shrubs, buildings, fences, poles, posts, fire hydrants, parking lot bumper blocks, boulders, and all other fixed objects that project above the ground so grass height is maintained consistent with adjacent grass. The use of herbicides by the Contractor shall be limited to the post perimeter fence line and for use in preventing grass growth on sidewalks. The Contractor may with approval from DPW Environmental Division/Installation Pest Management Coordinator use herbicides or mechanical means or a combination of both to accomplish trimming. After trimming, all cuttings and debris shall be removed and sidewalks and paved areas will be cleaned of all trash and debris resulting from the Contractor’s operations on the same day trimming is performed.

2.2.3.1 The Contractor shall repair any damages to trees and shrubs caused by trimming. If a plant damaged by trimming dies or becomes unhealthy, the Contractor shall replace the damaged plant with a plant of the same size and type at no additional cost to the Government. The Contractor shall provide a one (1) year warranty on all replacement trees and shrubs. Tree and shrub replacements shall be performed within fifteen (15) days of the date the Contractor is notified to replace the plant.

2.2.4 Fertilizing and Liming.

The Contractor shall apply commercial, N-P-K granular fertilizer and pulverized agricultural lime to High Visibility Areas, IAW the Work Capability Levels table and shall be applied IAW the manufacturer’s recommendation. Fertilizing for landscaped areas applied in split applications each year with one half (½) applied in March and the other half in July, unless soil analysis results specify otherwise Lime, when required by soil sample results, is to be applied during the November/ December time period. Only dolomitic agricultural lime shall be used.

2.2.5 Seeding and Sodding.

The Contractor shall repair damaged lawn areas by excavating unsuitable material, backfilling with shredded topsoil, leveling and seeding and maintaining adjacent turf areas IAW with the Work Capability Levels table. The areas to be seeded are approximately 1,293 acres annually. All seeded areas must be covered with two (2) to three (3) inches of loose straw mulch immediately after the seed has been applied as specified in TM 5-630, Natural Resources: Land Management, and/or the Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP).

2.2.5.1 Management Plan.

Until the desired grass is established to conform to adjacent turf areas. On high pedestrian traffic areas and road intersection shoulders, roping off is required until the grass is established.

2.2.5.1.1 Hydro seeding.

The Contractor shall furnish all labor, equipment, and materials to perform hydro seeding IAW the Work Capability Levels table and as specified in TM 5-630 and/or the Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan, until the desired grass is established to conform to adjacent turf areas. All areas shall be hydro seeded, mulched, and tacked with complete coverage at the rates specified.

2.2.5.1.2 Sodding.

The Contractor shall remove turf and excavate, prepare soil, provide, place and water sod and surrounding turf as necessary, and manicure the sodded area IAW the Work Capability Levels table and as specified in TM 5-630, Natural Resources: Land Management and/or the Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan, until the desired grass is established to conform to adjacent turf areas.

2.2.5.1.3 Aerating and Overseeding.

The Contractor shall perform core aeration of all turf within High Visibility areas as identified in the Work Capability Levels table. All areas shall be aerated with complete coverage and the cores shall remain on site. The Contractor shall aerate annually during periods of optimum soil moisture. The Contractor shall seed approximately 159 acres annually using a no till drill. Seed shall be inserted without disturbing the existing vegetative cover. Seeding shall be performed immediately after mowing to facilitate use of equipment.

2.2.6 Maintain Flower Beds.

The Contractor shall maintain approximately 40,139 square feet of indigenous flower/planting beds annually. The Contractor shall maintain only low maintenance and indigenous flowering species. The Contractor shall fertilize, weed, mulch, water, add compost, and till. The Contractor shall remove all annual plants, add compost, and mulch flowerbeds annually by first frost between 11 to 20 October of each year in prior to planting new seasonal flowers in flower beds as described in TE F-009, Flower Beds. Leaf/grass compost and shredded hardwood bulk mulch from the Yard Waste Compost Facility shall be used. Any use of herbicides shall be approved by the KO. Flower/planting bed specifications, locations, and sizes are shown in TE F-009 Flower Beds.

2.2.7 Weed Control.

Herbicide application shall be limited to parade fields and athletic fields. Contractor personnel that apply herbicide shall have a Georgia herbicide application certificate or license. The Contractor shall ensure training and licenses and/or certificates of Contractor personnel are kept current. The Contractor shall provide copies of these licenses or certifications to the KO/COR, NLT thirty (30) calendar days prior to start of contract, and again within five (5) calendar days upon a change in personnel. Deliverable A0005, Licenses and Certifications.

2.2.7.1 The Contractor shall submit a consolidated list of all chemicals used during the month, in a monthly herbicide application record to the KO/COR. All mixing and storage of herbicide shall be performed off the installation. If the Contractor spills or releases any hazardous substances, i.e., substances listed in 40 CFR 302, Designation, Reportable Quantities, and Notification, the Contractor shall immediately notify the KO, followed by written notification within one (1) hour. The Contractor shall submit an herbicide usage report of all herbicide used to the KO/COR. Deliverable M0012, Vegetation Control.

2.2.8 Remove Debris, Leaves, and Litter.

The Contractor’s responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to, the removal and disposal of all natural debris, (e.g., tree limbs, rodent habitats, etc.) litter, and trash. Leaves shall be removed from High Visibility Areas IAW the Work Capability Levels table. Organic debris such as leaves, grass clippings, tree trimmings, stumps, Christmas trees, and pine straw shall be disposed. The Contractor shall collect and dispose woody debris after pruning and removal of trees or stumps. The Contractor shall mechanically chip tree limbs less than four (4) inches in diameter, transport, and dispose. The Contractor shall remove and dispose limbs and trunks greater than four (4) inches in diameter off post. The Contractor shall remove and haul wood chips off the installation as required.

2.2.9 Service/Maintain Trees.

The Contractor shall service all trees in Fort Gordon. Types and Size range of trees are annotated in TE F-010, Tree Types and Sizes. Trees that become diseased or die shall be removed and replaced with like trees.

2.2.9.1 Perform Mechanical Tree Spading and Transplanting.

The Contractor shall perform mechanical tree spading and transplanting of the following tree types listed in TE F-010, Tree Types and Sizes.

2.2.9.2 Tree Mulching.

The Contractor shall annually mulch landscaped trees. A circular, weed and grass free mulch ring of eighteen (18) inches or larger in diameter shall be maintained at depth of two (2) to four (4) inches around each tree. An estimated 100 cubic yards of mulch will be required annually. The Contractor shall use mulch generated on the installation.

2.2.9.3 Tree Fertilization.

The Contractor shall fertilize all trees, including saplings, medium to mature trees, and other trees. The Contractor shall apply sufficient fertilizer to maintain the health of the trees.

2.2.9.4 Tree Pruning.

The Contractor shall trim all tree limbs which are damaged, unsightly, or present unsafe conditions, and remove all associated debris. Pruning shall be accomplished IAW ANSI A300 (Part 1-9)-2017, Tree, Shrub, and Other Woody Plant Management – Standard Practices (Pruning) and ANSI Z133.1-2017, Arboricultural Operations – Pruning, Trimming, Repairing, Maintaining, and Removing Trees and Cutting Brush – Safety Requirements, or the most current approved update ANSI A300, TE F-007 Tree Trimming and Pruning Schedule, and National Arborist Association standards.

2.2.9.5 Tree Removal and Replacement.

The Contractor shall inspect for dead, damaged, and diseased trees within High Visibility Areas and provide a written report to the KO/COR within five (5) working days of the end of each month in the format provided in Deliverable F0004, Basic Tree Risk Assessment Form. The report shall identify by species, size, class, and location of all hazardous trees, insects, and disease problems that require immediate attention and a specific plan of action for corrections.

Dead trees to be removed and new replacement plantings shall be identified on an approved site plan. The Contractor shall paint an “X” on the trunks of trees to be removed. All tree removals and the associated schedules shall be approved by the DPW Environmental and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) prior to implementation. All debris shall be removed within ten (10) calendar days of tree removal and damaged area shall be raked, leveled and seeded.

2.2.9.6 Emergency Tree Removal.

When removal of a tree, or part thereof, is required to eliminate a safety hazard or restore traffic flow, the Contractor shall accomplish the action within two (2) hours of notification by the COR. The work includes stump removal and grounds repair and restoration services. All debris shall be disposed in the designated disposal areas.

2.2.10 Hedge and Shrub Maintenance.

The Contractor shall uniformly mulch hedges and shrubs as required to maintain a depth of three (3) to four (4) inches and annually cultivate mulched areas to maintain adequate aeration and percolation and remove grass and weeds. The Contractor shall ensure mulch is kept out of the crowns of shrubs and off buildings, sidewalks, lawn areas, etc. The Contractor shall use mulch generated on the installation until exhausted, at which time the Contractor shall purchase and use hardwood bulk mulch from an off-post supplier(s). The types of shrubs to be maintained are identified in TE F-011, Shrub Types and Sizes.

2.2.10.1 Hedge and Shrub Fertilization.

The Contractor shall fertilize all hedges and shrubs. Fertilizer shall be incorporated into the surface area around shrubs, which are to receive applications of granular fertilizer. The Contractor shall apply sufficient fertilizer to maintain the health of hedges and shrubs.

2.2.10.2 Hedge and Shrub Pruning.

The Contractor shall maintain and prune hedges and shrubs. Hedges and shrubs shall be free of dead limbs. Hedge trimming shall be performed IAW the Work Capability Levels table. All shrubs, bushes, hedges and other cultivated plants are to be trimmed according to their natural growth habit for proper health, attractive appearance in the appropriate season, and to prevent interference with pedestrian and vehicular traffic. All clippings, branches and debris resulting from hedge and shrub trimming and pruning shall be removed the same day work is accomplished. Linear feet and location of hedges and shrubs to be maintained are identified in TE F-009, Flower Beds and TE F-011, Shrub Types and Sizes.

2.2.11 Irrigation.

The Contractor shall operate, maintain, adjust, and repair permanently installed lawn irrigation systems and portable irrigations equipment to, IAW installation water restriction policies, maintain an adequate water supply for plant health in flower, shrub, hedge, and tree. The privatized irrigation systems are identified in TE H-002, Privatized Utilities Provider Demarcation Points.

2.2.11.1 Operation of Irrigation Systems.

The Contractor shall irrigate High Visibility Areas to maintain the health of the turf ensuring no ponding of water, excessive runoff, etc. This includes lawns, plants, flowers, landscaped areas, and all areas requiring manual watering. When hoses are used for manual watering, all equipment shall be removed between watering for a neat and clean appearance. The Contractor shall not connect to any hydrant within the boundaries of the installation. The Contractor shall practice water conservation measures and position all watering systems to avoid overspray onto pavements, sidewalks, roadways, etc. The Contractor’s irrigation responsibilities include setup, monitoring, adjusting, etc., of irrigation system computer, timers, controllers, pumps, etc. The Contractor shall be responsible for day-to-day operation of the base-wide automated irrigation system.

2.2.11.2 Maintenance of Irrigation Systems.

The Contractor shall maintain irrigation systems including, but not limited to, draining and charging systems, replacing damaged or broken control devices and sprinkler heads, and repairing ruptured pipes.