Attachment_01__SOW_Tree_Planting_and_Maintenance_Specs_(1).pdf

INDEPENDENCE NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK

TREE MANAGEMENT PLAN

SPECIFICATIONS

SOURCING, REMOVAL, REPLACEMENT, PLANTING, AND MAINTENANCE OF

NEW D.A.R. TREES 2023-2024

SUMMARY OF WORK

The Contractor shall furnish and install (plant) 7 new trees at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, PA per the attached drawings and tree schedules. At five (5) locations, the Contractor shall plant a new tree in the location specified and include all items necessary to perform tree planting, which includes but is not limited to: hand digging, backfill, mulch, tree stakes at guys, watering, etc. At two (2) locations, the Contractor shall grind the stump of a previously removed tree in tree wells, excavate existing soil and any existing tree roots, provide structural soil and topsoil, plant a new tree in the location specified, and reset or replace existing bollards. The Contractor will be responsible for preserving or resetting adjacent hardscape conditions, as well as preserving or restoring any adjacent turf during installation. The contractor shall provide all maintenance tasks described herein, including but not limited to watering, pruning, mulching, weeding, inoculations as needed, and replacement of dead or dying trees, for a period of one (1) year commencing upon completion. Locations of each tree, and a summary of required tree species and quantities, can be found in the attached Tree Schedule & Block Plans. All work shall be done in accordance with these specifications.

Base Period: All tree removal, stump grinding, and new tree installation shall be completed within one year from

Contract Award and within thirty (30) days after Notice to Proceed.

Option 1: The Contractor shall furnish and install (plant) 4 new street trees at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, PA in the existing vacant tree pits located at the corner of 5th Street and Chestnut Street. The Contractor shall grind the stump of a previously removed tree in tree wells (if existing), excavate existing soil and any existing tree roots, provide structural soil and topsoil, plant a new tree in the location specified, and reset or replace existing bollards. All items necessary to perform tree plantings shall be included as in Base Option. The Contractor will be responsible for preserving or resetting adjacent hardscape conditions. Maintenance tasks are to be included same as the Base Option for a period of one (year) commencing upon completion. Option to be exercised at the discretion of the Government.

Option 2: The Contractor shall furnish and install (plant) 3 new street trees at Independence National Historical

Park in Philadelphia, PA in the existing vacant tree pits located along 5th Street, south of Library Street.

The Contractor shall grind the stump of a previously removed tree in tree wells (if existing), excavate existing soil and any existing tree roots, provide structural soil and topsoil, plant a new tree in the location specified, and reset or replace existing bollards. All items necessary to perform tree plantings shall be included same as Base Option. The Contractor will be responsible for preserving or resetting adjacent hardscape conditions. Maintenance tasks are to be included same as the Base Option for a period of one (year) commencing upon completion. Option to be exercised at the discretion of the Government.

Option 3: The Contractor shall furnish and install (plant) 2 new street trees at Independence National Historical

Park in Philadelphia, PA in the existing vacant tree pits located along Chestnut Street at the corner of 4th Street. The Contractor shall grind the stump of a previously removed tree in tree wells (if existing), excavate existing soil and any existing tree roots, provide structural soil and topsoil, plant a new tree in the location specified, and reset or replace any existing (or missing) bollards. All items necessary to perform tree plantings shall be included same as Base Option. The Contractor will be responsible for preserving or resetting adjacent hardscape conditions. Maintenance tasks are to be included same as the Base Option for a period of one (year) commencing upon completion. Option to be exercised at the discretion of the Government.

PART 1: SCOPE

A. DESCRIPTION: The Contractor shall furnish all equipment and sufficient personnel for selected tree work, (i.e., tree sourcing, transport, planting, pruning, watering, removals, replacements, stump grinding, and all related maintenance work), in accordance with the specifications, spreadsheet and plans stated herein. Therefore, any items not specifically noted, but necessary for performance in accordance with accepted industry standards, shall be furnished under this contract.

B. TREE WORK BASE LOCATION: Work will be performed at Independence National Historical Park under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service, Northeast Region. All trees are located within complex developed areas with a high volume of pedestrians and vehicles occupying a dense built environment of historic and non- historic structures, utility infrastructures, and public landscapes.

Locations are within the blocks bounded between Second Street to the east, Sixth Street to the west, Chestnut Street to the north and Walnut Street to the south.

Contractor has a responsibility to:

1. Furnish high quality, well-formed trees without defects; including buried root flares, girdling and deformed roots, included bark, disease, top die back, and poor canopy structure. If tree is wrapped, remove the wrap and inspect the trunk for wounds, insects, and incorrect cuts. Select trees with one straight dominant trunk that has well-developed branches well-spaced, with canopy uniformity. Trees propagated from the same region as the planting site are preferred. For B&B trees, when the tree is dug is more important than when to plant. B&B Trees for this project will have been dug when dormant. All trees will meet or exceed the minimum requirements of the American Standard for Nursery Stock (ANSI Z60.1). Trees will be transported to Independence National Historical Park - (INDE), when ready for planting.

a. Trees may be balled-and-burlapped or grown in containers (only if tree is not available as B&B.) All trees shall be healthy, vigorous, and well grown, single-trunked, high-branched specimens showing evidence of proper root and top pruning. All trees to be 2.5 inch caliper, grown at least one year in a currently active nursery. List the nursery and tree name on the tree label.

b. Keep tree roots moist during transport and storage, and protect foliage from winds.

c. Park staff will review all trees before planting, including ball defects. The Contractor will replace defective trees with acceptable trees in a timely manner.

2. Plant. Planting shall only be conducted during seasonally appropriate times of year (e.g. fall and spring). Contractor shall submit a planting schedule to CO for approval prior to starting work. NPS personnel will mark tree planting locations.

a. The Contracting Officer or his/her designee must be on site monitoring during all excavations for tree planting.

b. Inspect the roots of Container and B&B (Balled and Burlapped) trees. If the roots have any rot, the tree will not be accepted. If the roots are circling and/or girdled, use a serrated knife or soil knife (disinfected with detergent for each cut, to make shallow cuts around the sides of the root ball and an X across the bottom. Then use your hands to loosen and/or remove 1-2 inches of the outer roots and soil.

c. Find the root flare. This is the point where the trunk widens and flares out into roots at the base of the trunk. The root flare may be covered with soil – gently remove the soil to expose the flare.

d. Excavate soil to plant trees. Dig holes in the location specified on the project plan. Park Staff will mark the location on the ground. Dig a shallow, broad planting hole that is twice or three times the width of the root ball, and just deep enough to position the root flare above the level of the soil. Keep the soil under the root ball tamped down and solid. To determine if the root flare is at the proper depth, lay the handle of your shovel across the hole. If the root flare is above the shovel handle, dig a bit deeper. If it is below, remove the tree and back fill the hole (remembering to tamp the soil down), until the root flare is flush with the soil surface.

e. Gently place the tree in the center of the hole, making sure the trunk is straight and the root ball is stable on solid soil. backfill slightly to hold it in position.

f. Backfill the planting hole with a mix of one third high quality compost, and two thirds of the existing soil that came out of the hole, packing it down as you go. Make sure the soil fills in any air pockets and is securely holding the tree in place.

g. Stake. Since the specified trees are to be planted in a busy urban area (and which often is windy), the trees shall be staked. Install 3 stakes (for best support), before the planting hole is backfilled. Use three opposing flexible ties. Ties shall be placed on the lower half of the tree and allow trunk movement.

h. Mulch. Furnish and place composted mulch in a ring around the tree – using the 3-3-3 method at all new tree locations. (three inches of mulch in a three foot ring around the tree, leaving a three inch gap between the mulch and the tree trunk.) Apply fresh organic shredded wood mulch to the trees as needed in the spring and fall, making sure to remove mulch that is moldy, contaminated by trash, dog waste etc. At the time of planting, water each tree to reduce transplant shock and eliminate air pockets around the root ball.

3. Water each tree with 15-20 gallons of water a week - from the time the tree buds out in the spring, until it loses its leaves in the fall (or until the ground freezes). As part of the regular watering schedule, do a soil moisture test using soil at the newly planted trees to judge the watering need.

Do not overwater. Water slowly and in the center of the mulch ring so the water can soak deep into the soil and the roots can absorb it gradually. Use a method that will measure the amount of water so each tree will get the full 15- 20 gallons. Keep a record of the when each tree was watered and how much water was used. Take note of how many days since the tree was watered last, and rainfall during the watering period. The contractor shall submit a tree watering schedule to the Contracting Officer for approval. Be prepared to adjust the schedule throughout the watering period. Inspect the trees that are being watered for transplant shock and overall condition. Report any tree problems.

Slow release watering bags may be used. Polymer moisture crystals should be used in the summertime and/or in street tree pits if regular watering is not providing enough moisture.

a. Weed and Keep Clean. Keep the tree’s root zone free of grass, weeds, and other plants so that roots do not have to compete for water and nutrients. No herbicides or weed whacking allowed.

b. Guarantee trees for one year and make appropriate and timely replacement planting.

4. Prune. Prune only dead, diseased and damaged tree branches just after planting. Use hand pruners that have been disinfected with detergent (check if it needs to be diluted and soak for at least one minute.) Change the solution (when it gets visibly clouded with dirt & debris), for each cut, and carefully remove all dead and damaged branches by cutting just above the branch collar. Do not prune to compensate for root loss.

a. A Preventative Tree Pruning Program will be followed to ensure that the young trees in this project will form a sustainable structure in the future. The objective is to correct/prevent structural issues such as:

Codominant Stems, Branches with Included Bark, Trees with Unbalanced Canopies, Large Lower Limbs, Lions-tailed Trees, Large Pruning Cuts, and Stems that are not growing in the correct direction or position.

The Pruning Program will develop good tree structure and minimize the risks of tree defects by:

1. Developing /Maintaining a Dominant Leader.

2. Identifying the lowest Branches in the Permanent Canopy.

3. Preventing the Branches below the Permanent Canopy from growing too large.

4. Keeping all Branches at less than half the Trunk Diameter. (note: after, at least, the three years of Pruning Program is over.)

5. Spacing Main Branches along one Dominant Trunk.

6. Suppressing Growth on Branches with Included Bark.

7. Making Proper Pruning Cuts

8. Branches may need to be removed in order to provide clearance for Pedestrians, cars, trucks etc.

9. Execute and review this pruning program for three years.

ATTACHMENTS:

TREE SCHEDULES & BLOCK PLANS

PART 2: GENERAL PROVISIONS

2.01 PROJECT MEETINGS

A. Contractor Conference: Before start of planting, the Project Manager/COR will arrange an on-site meeting with Contractor which may include visual inspection of the contracted work at the conclusion of the meeting. The meeting agenda will include the following at a minimum:

1. Correspondence procedures

2. Designation of responsible personnel

3. Labor standards provisions

4. Payroll reports

5. Changes

6. Payments to Contractor

7. Subcontractors

8. National Park Service regulations

9. Accident prevention program (including name of responsible

Supervisor)

10. Accident reporting

11. Documents required under the contract

12. Park rules and regulations 13 Park Access

14. Working hours and days

15. Safety program (compliance with the "Accident Prevention" clause of the General Provisions)

16. Tentative work schedule

2.02 QUALITY ASSURANCE:

202.1 Professional Qualifications:

A. All work shall be under the direction and general supervision of an Arborist(s) certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) who possesses verifiable experience as a full time direct supervisor of shade tree maintenance and removal, climbing work crews, and with technical competence in tree physiology, identification, diagnosis of disorders, current and tree care and safety practices in accordance with accepted industry standards. Arborist(s) will submit a resume with education, experience, certifications, and any related affiliations.

B. A Certified Arborist shall be on the job site at all times during performance of work and shall be the primary contact with the Government's technical representative. The technical representative is responsible for inspecting the quality of ongoing work and inspecting all completed work to ensure that contract performance requirements are met.

C. All tree workers shall be familiar with the technical aspects and hazards of tree maintenance work and the equipment used in such operations. This will include all safety procedures and requisite protection devices. All tree workers shall abide by any code of ethics or professional conduct established by the National Arborist Association and the International Society of Arboriculture.

D. Proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), will be used while on site, including hearing, eye, face, respiratory, foot, head, electric, and hand protection as needed. Also, necessary protections for equipment use, (including tools, vehicles, and machinery), tree removal, stump grinding, and planting. PPE and all required equipment used on site will meet all OSHA standards, including OSHA General Industry (29 CFR Part 1910) Standards.

E. A list of all crew supervisors and tree workers anticipated as part of the work - crews as well as their positions - (e.g., certified line clearance tree trimmers, qualified tree trimmers, tree trimmer trainees, and ground personnel responsible for planting trees), affiliation with the company, and related training and on the job experience, shall be submitted and approved by the National Park Service. If so directed by the COR, a separate list of personnel to be used on a given job shall be submitted for each task order.

1. Each crew shall consist of at a minimum:

a. ISA Certified Arborist/Tree Crew Supervisor

b. Experienced Tree Climbers

c. Experienced Tree Planters

d. Experienced Tree Pruners

e. Experienced Grounds Monitors

F. All workers shall be recognizable as employees of the contractor by wearing distinctive clothing bearing the name of the company or by wearing appropriate badges which show the Contractor's company name and employee name.

G. The Contractor must submit copies of all licenses and certificates necessary for complying with Federal, State, and Municipal laws, codes, and regulations.

H. Prior to bid, the Contractor is encouraged to examine work site with Contracting Officer and/or the designated representative, to determine exact extent of work and the conditions under which this work will be performed. This site visit shall be coordinated with the CO and COR to provide any prospective Contractor the opportunity to review the proposed work in addition to any written questions submitted to the CO.

2.02.2 EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS:

A. All equipment must meet all federal OSHA, state and local safety requirements and must be properly licensed. This includes equipment such as bucket trucks, aerial lifts, chipper trucks, wood trucks, and stump grinders among others, which may be needed to correctly perform tree planting, pruning, and removal in accordance with the specifications stated herein.

B. Required Equipment: At a minimum, each crew shall have access to the following equipment or equivalent.

1. Chipper capable of chipping branches up to 18” in diameter.

2. Dumping Box Chip Truck

3. Stump Grinder

C. The name or logo of the contractor must be clearly displayed on all trucks used on the job.

D. The following load restrictions shall not be exceeded:

Single Units Gross Vehicle Weight

2 axles 40,000 lbs. (18,100 kg) 3 axles 48,000 lbs. (21,800 kg) 4 axles 52,000 lbs. (23,600 kg)

Combination Units 3 axles 57,000 lbs. (25,900 kg) 4 axles 62,000 lbs. (28,100 kg) 5 or more axles 66,000 lbs. (29,900 kg)

2.02.3 REPORTS:

A. The contractor shall maintain a daily work log during performance. The work log shall include the scope of work performed in accordance with the contract bid schedule. If requested, a copy shall be filed with the COR on a weekly basis.

B. The Contractor shall recycle all waste material collected during the performance of this contract. The contractor will provide a monthly report of the volume and type of material recycled. The report will also include copies of recycling tickets indicating where the material was recycled.

C. The Contractor shall note and report to the COR in writing the presence of any structural weakness, girdling roots, disease conditions, decayed trunk or branches, and split crotches or branches or any other hazardous condition that has potential for damage to property or personal injury that cannot be corrected within the scope of work. This report must include the tree location and tree number. This reporting can be done in the daily report.

2.02.4 PRE-EXISTING DAMAGE

A. In instances where the contractor finds pre-existing conditions or damage to Park resources which may reflect upon the quality of their work or cause them undue liability, the contractor shall not start work until the contractor and COR have agreed on the responsibility for these pre-existing conditions.

2.03 SCHEDULING AND COORDINATION:

A. All affected trees will be identified with a numbered tag, or as otherwise required by the NPS, prior to the contractor commencing work. No nailing into trees will be permitted.

B. The Contracting Officer's Representative will be responsible for acting on behalf of the Contracting Officer on all matters of work within the scope of the contract. Approval of all work beyond the scope of the contract is reserved for the Contracting Officer. The contractor is responsible for notifying the COR in writing all work that is beyond the scope of the contract. The contractor shall not perform work without a modification of the contract in place.

C. Work shall be arranged and scheduled so as not to interfere with normal activities of the Park. The contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer of the proposed work schedule, i.e. typical work day and project timetable, prior to mobilization on site. The contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR), one week prior to beginning any work on site, to allow for coordination with any public events and normal Park operations. Work shall be performed between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, federal holidays excluded, unless authorized in writing by the COR.

Once work begins, the contractor is expected to be on the job site each day in which weather conditions are favorable as determined be the COR or designated Park representative until completion of the project.

Work will not be conducted when weather conditions preclude safe operations, such as high winds, moderate to heavy precipitation, slick surfaces due to rainy conditions, and low light levels. Extended daylight hours may be approved by the CO upon request in writing and with 48 hours’ notice.

1. Contractor shall clean site of all construction debris and leave site in a neat and orderly appearance for the duration of any stop work period.

D. Work shall be scheduled and arranged so as not to interfere with or normal activities of the Park. The

Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer of the proposed work schedule, i.e., typical workday and project task timetable, prior to mobilization on site. This is to aid NPS Protection staff in monitoring the site. The Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) whenever work will take place on the site so that the work can be monitored and to allow for coordination with Park operations.

Advanced notice will be given to the contractor if a conflict is expected. Any plant debris, personnel, or equipment that would interfere with an activity or event shall be removed prior to the activity. The Contractor will be responsible for coordinating with the City of Philadelphia and for any and all permits and associated expenses.

E. All work within a designated Block specified on the spreadsheet and plans shall be completed, inspected, and accepted in accordance with the procedures stated herein before beginning work in another area.

F. If, at any time, the COR determines that the work is being conducted in an unsafe manner, the contractor will be notified by the Contracting Officer to immediately cease all work activities.

G. FALL TREE PLANTING Some of the trees on the planting list may be considered “Fall Hazards´. Fall is the preferred time for tree planting, and experts still recommend Fall planting for some trees considered a hazard, depending on the species. Many of these trees will thrive when planted in the fall, particularly if they have been dug properly, i.e., when dormant, and transplanted earlier in the Fall. Good aftercare will also improve the chances of a fall planted tree.

2.04 SAFETY:

A. All operations shall be conducted in accordance with ANSI Z133.1-2000 Safety Requirements for Pruning, Trimming, Repairing, Maintaining and Removing Trees and Cutting Brush, and will follow all Federal, OSHA, State and Local safety requirements.

B. Employees shall wear reflective, bright orange vests while conducting operations in or adjacent to roadways.

C. No one except the operator shall be within six (6) feet of a power saw or Stump Grinder.

D. Safety Plan. Before on-site work begins, submit for approval an accident prevention program. The Contracting Officer will review the proposed program for compliance with OSHA and project requirements. The program shall include:

1. Name of responsible supervisor to insure program compliance.

2. Outline of the methods proposed to ensure property protection and safety of the public, National Park Service personnel, and Contractor’s employees.

E. Accident Reporting:

1. Reportable Accidents: A reportable accident is defined as death, occupational disease, traumatic injury to employees or the public, property damage by accident in excess of $100, and fires. Within 7 days of a reportable accident, send a report of the accident to the Contracting Officer.

F. All Other Accidents: The Contractor shall report all other accidents to the Contracting

Officer as soon as possible and assist the Contracting Officer and other officials as required in the investigation of the accident.

2.05 WORK AREA:

A. ACCESS: Vehicular access is possible from the walkways and sidewalks of Independence NHP except for Independence Square, where access is via a driveway ramp. The contractor shall at all times conduct his operations to insure the least inconvenience to the public and Park operations. Blocking of walkways and sidewalks along the street must be kept to a minimum. While walks are to be blocked, signage necessary to direct pedestrians around the obstruction safely will be required. Keep a minimum of two rolls of warning tape on site at all times. There shall be no deviation from the specifications regarding the safety of the Park's staff or visitors. In the event of such an occurrence, the CO will review and determine the timeframe for Contractor compliance. See Section O. below for loading and unloading requirements.

B. PARKING: It is important that the historic scene in the Park be preserved for the enjoyment of the Park’s visitors. For that reason, there is no on-site parking. No parking is allowed on any Park property except to load and unload vehicles. The Contracting Officer’s Representative will provide a Park unloading permit for this purpose. Failure to remove Contractor vehicles after unloading could result in vehicles being ticketed or towed. Vehicles that are actively employed in work are allowed on site. For a possible street parking permit, which allows parking at legal metered spaces, contact the Philadelphia Parking Authority.

C. STORAGE: There will be no on site storage.

D. CONDUCT: Contractor shall at all times conduct operations to ensure the least inconvenience to occupants and visitors.

1. Contractor will clean site of all construction debris and leave site in a neat and orderly appearance with walkways clean and clear at the end of each work day.

2. Loud noise will be kept at a minimum.

E. RESTROOMS: No private restroom facility is available onsite for the contractor’s use. The park provides public restroom in the Independence Visitor Center, which is located at 599 Market Street.

F. TELEPHONE: No telephone service is available on site for the contractor’s use.

G. ELECTRIC: Government will not provide connections to existing electrical facilities. COR shall review and approve all electric connections prior to any electric hookups.

H. WATER: Water may be available in hose bib attachments in some irrigation system valve boxes, and outside hose bibs at select walls and buildings. COR shall review and approve all water connections prior to any water hookups. Contractor is responsible for any permits and associated fees pertaining to the use of city fire hydrants, if required.

I. EXISTING UTILITIES:

1. Contractor is responsible for locating and preventing damage to known utilities, including irrigation.

The existence and location of known utilities shall be investigated and verified in the field by the contractor before starting work. Contractor must call Pennsylvania One Call (811). State law requires a three (3) business days’ notice (does not include state holidays or weekends), for all excavation. A business day begins at 12:00:00 a.m. and ends at 11:59:59 p.m.

2. Interruption of Existing Utility Service: Contractor shall notify CO of intent to disrupt utility services within Park boundaries 48 hours in advance. Interruption shall require prior approval.

J. FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION:

1. Responsible Person: A capable and qualified person shall be placed in charge of fire protection. The responsibilities shall include locating and maintaining fire protective equipment and establishing and maintaining safe procedures.

2. Hazard Control: Take all necessary precautions to prevent fire during construction. Keep flammable substances or materials at a safe distance from use of volatile or noxious substances.

3. Smoking is prohibited in the work areas in sites designated for the contractor’s use. Designate a space away from the work area be used for smoking. Cigarette butts must be disposed of properly.

4. Protection Equipment Required: Furnish a minimum of one extinguisher for each 1,500 square feet of area or major fraction thereof and a sufficient number to meet the requirement that a travel distance from any workstation to the nearest extinguisher shall not exceed 75 feet. Fire extinguisher shall be of type and size appropriate for the work but no less than 10lb.

K. BARRIERS:

1. Furnish, install, and maintain barriers to protect existing facilities and the public from construction operations. Fence, barricade, or otherwise block off the immediate work area to prevent unauthorized entry to the work area and to protect the general public from the construction work.

a. Visitors must be kept a safe distance from construction areas. The Contractor shall provide and maintain barricades between work areas and egress routes. All barricade locations shall be coordinated with Park’s Safety Officer.

b. Fences and barriers shall be structurally adequate and neat in appearance. Fences and barriers shall not injure vegetation, paving, or walls.

c. If traffic lane closures are necessary, Contractor shall erect and maintain barricades, lights, danger signals, and warning signs in accordance with ANSI D6.1-78. Barricades and signs shall conform to ANSI D6.1-78, “Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices” (MUTCD), Part VI. Contractor is responsible for acquiring street closure permits and associated fees, if required.

d. Barrier tape shall be imprinted with “CAUTION: CONSTRUCTION AREA”. Install where directed by the COR to insure safe conditions. Keep a minimum of two rolls on site at all times.

Direct pedestrians away from work areas.

2. Post signage to route pedestrians around construction as recommended by the COR.

3. Protect pedestrian traffic by guardrails or fences.

4. Cover pipes, hoses, and power lines crossing sidewalks and walkways with troughs using beveled edge boards.

5. Removal: Completely remove barriers no longer needed and when approved by CO.

L. TEMPORARY CONTROLS:

1. Housekeeping:

a. Keep project neat, orderly, and in a safe condition at all times. The contractor is required to furnish all labor, materials, and equipment for daily cleanup and restoration of all disturbed areas or features, and be prepared to sweep and wash paved surfaces daily.

b. Wet down dry materials and rubbish to prevent blowing dust.

c. Keep volatile wastes in covered containers.

M. DISPOSAL:

1. Unless otherwise specified, all removed material becomes the property of the contractor and shall be recycled or disposed of outside the park. The contractor shall immediately remove hazardous rubbish from project site. Place other construction debris in refuse containers at least daily.

Dispose of refuse at least weekly, in a legal manner, at public or private dumping areas outside the park.

2. Do not burn or bury refuse inside the park.

N. EXISTING CONDITIONS: Protect all sidewalks, curbs, manholes, landscape features, buildings and other built features from potential damage resulting from the work of this Project.

O. LOADING: If it is necessary to unload and load or otherwise use vehicles on sidewalks or walkways, the following requirements shall be met:

1. All vehicles shall not exceed a gross weight of 10,000 pounds.

2. All vehicles are required to use pneumatic tires.

3. The contractor will be held responsible for the protection of the pavement, including the brick and stone sidewalks and curbing, and will be held accountable for any damage that occurs as a direct result of the work. Any vehicles that exceed a gross weight of 10,000 pounds must use the protection described below. Using this method does not relieve the Contractor of responsibility to protect the pavement surfaces or to repair any damage.

a. One layer of ¾” plywood, with a layer of 2” rigid foam g underneath, laid in such a manner that the surface of the paved area is covered to all extents of its surface.

b. When it becomes apparent that the rigid insulation has become compressed to a height that is less than half its original thickness, or to an extent that the rigid insulation is not protecting the paving, it is to be replaced as described above.

P. PRESERVATION OF NATURAL FEATURES: Confine all operations to work limits of the project.

Prevent damage to all planted vegetation areas, including all beds, containers, shrubs, understory and canopy trees, and turf.

1. Provide temporary barriers to protect existing trees and plants and root zones as directed by contracting officer.

2. Do not tie back, injure remove, or destroy trees or other plants without prior approval. Consult with Contracting Officer on roots and branches that interfere with project. No roots or branches may be removed without permission of the contracting officer.

3. Do not fasten ropes, cables, or guys to existing trees.

4. Do not store equipment, construction materials, excavated material or debris on lawn areas, plant beds, or any unpaved areas except as directed by Contracting Officer. If storage in these areas is approved by the Contracting Officer, 3/4˝plywood must be laid down on all areas before any item is placed.

5. Do not drive vehicles or create pathways on lawn areas, plant beds and tree root protection areas or any unpaved areas except as directed by Contracting Officer. The root protection area is defined as an area equal to a radius of 1.5 feet for each inch of diameter at breast height (dbh) (e.g., a 10 inch dbh tree will have a root protection area equal to 15 feet from the main trunk in all directions). If vehicle traffic or pathway is needed in these areas and approved by the Contracting Officer, 3/4inch plywood must be laid down on all areas before any vehicle is allowed or pathway created.

2.06 AIR AND WATER POLLUTION CONTROL:

A. Take all necessary reasonable measures to reduce air and water pollution by any material or equipment used during construction.

B. Do not dispose of volatile wastes or oils in storm or sanitary drains.

2.07 DEFINITIONS:

A. Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) - The DBH shall be the trunk diameter measured at a point 4.5 feet above the average ground level. Where the trunk divides into several smaller trunks at a point lower than

4.5 feet from the ground, the tree size shall be the diameter measured at the highest point on the single trunk. If a tree falls between sizes as listed in the bid schedule the tree shall be placed in the next larger size (ie: a 17 1/2 inch diameter tree shall be placed in the 18-23 inch size).

B. Diameter of Crown - The diameter of the crown shall be determined by taking the average of two diameter measurements of the drip line at right angles.

C. Diameter of Cut Stump – The stump size shall be the diameter of the cut wood surface as measured across the narrowest portion.

E. Girdling Roots - Roots located above or below ground whose circular growth around the base of a tree trunk or over individual roots applies pressure to the bark area, ultimately restricting the sap flow and trunk/root growth, frequently resulting in reduced vitality or stability of the tree.

F. Branch - A secondary shoot or stem arising from one of the main axes (i.e.: trunk or leader) of a tree.

G. Crotch - The angle formed at the attachment between a branch and another branch, leader, or trunk of a tree.

H. Crown - The upper portion of a tree from the lowest branch on the trunk to the top.

I. Lateral - A branch or twig growing from a parent branch or stem.

J. Leader - A dominant upright stem, usually the main trunk.

K. Parent Branch or Stem - The tree trunk; or a large limb from which lateral branches grow.

L. Scaffold - A limb that is or will be part of the permanent branch structure.

M. Tree Caliper Measurement: The caliper measurement will be determined by taking the average of two trunk caliper measurements at right angles 6 inches above the ground up to and including 4-inch caliper size, and 12 inches above the ground for larger sizes.

N. Tree Height Measurement: The tree height shall be measured from the ground line to where the main part of the plant ends, not to the tip of a thin shoot.

PART 3: EXECUTION

3.01 TREE SOURCING, REMOVAL, PLANTING & PRUNING

3.01.1 Scope

A. The work to be performed under this section shall include removing trees, (Which includes pruning as part of the removal process.), Sourcing new trees, planting new trees, and pruning the newly planted trees in accordance with the American National Standard for Tree Care Operations - Tree, Shrub, and Other Woody Plant Maintenance - Standard Practices, ANSI A300 (Part 1) - 2000 Pruning.

3.01.2 General Requirements

A. On the same day a tree is removed the contractor shall remove all wood, debris and chips from the site.

Removal and disposal shall be the responsibility of the contractor. There shall be no sale of wood on government property.

B. The contractor shall chip all material 18” in diameter or less.

C. If so directed by the COR all material greater than 18 inches shall be cut to 18-24" lengths, and disposed at an off-site recycling facility or other dump site as part of the Contractor’s responsibility.

D. All specified pruning and removals at the site of any one tree shall be completed, including removal of logs and debris, before initiating work on the next tree.

E. Newly planted trees which are developing more than one dominant leader shall be selectively pruned to promote a single dominant leader by sub-dominating the other competitive branches. Selection of the dominant leader shall be made with consideration of the tree's natural form and structure. The COR must be present during this type of pruning.

F. The use of chain saws and circular blade power saws shall be limited to the removal of limbs no less than

2 inches in diameter.

3.02 REMOVALS

3.02.1 Scope

The work to be performed under this section shall include removing trees in accordance with the American National Standard or Arboricultural Operations - Pruning, Repairing, Maintaining and Removing Trees and Cutting Brush - Safety Requirements - ANSI Z133.1-2000.

3.02.2 General Requirements

A. For trees specified to have all wood, chips and debris removed, the contractor shall, on the same day the tree is removed, chip all material less than 18 inches in diameter and remove all remaining wood and debris from the park and legally dispose of off-site, unless approved otherwise by the COR. Removal of wood and chips from the park and disposal is the responsibility of the contractor. There shall be no sale of wood on government property.

B. Climbing hooks shall only be worn for tree removals.

C. The Contractor shall take all reasonable precautions to avoid damaging surrounding vegetation, lawn, hardscape, or masonry areas and prevent gouging and erosion of soils as a result of tree removal operations (e.g., removal of stubs that might dig in, and blanketing the area with brush and/or logs to cushion the fall).

3.02.3 Execution

A. Trees shall be felled only when there is an adequate felling area at least equal in radius to the height of the tree. Whenever possible trees should be felled on as level ground as possible avoiding stumps, rocks etc.

which may cause the tree to roll when it falls.

B. Trees that cannot be felled due to adjacent trees, vegetation, roadways, buildings, structures, utilities, and/or lack of an adequate felling area shall be topped and/or sectioned.

C. When topping and/or sectioning is required, the lower limbs shall be removed first working toward the top until the tree is stripped and sections shall be small enough to be safely handled by the worker on a rope.

Sectioning shall continue until the tree is low enough for felling.

D. Pull ropes shall be used on all trees that have potential for damage to property or existing vegetation should they fall in any direction other than that intended. Pull ropes shall be installed before any cutting is done at the base.

E. Stake holdfasts and men pulling the rope shall be outside the striking distance of the tree. If conditions make this impossible, the tree shall be topped and/or sectioned.

F. Felling Leaning, Split, Twin, or Hollow Trees: The Contractor is responsible for taking all precautions including, but not limited to, chaining, roping, corner cutting and the use of felling wedges and securely anchored tackle blocks to ensure that the tree will fall where desired and prevent twisting and/or premature splitting or separation of the trunk. If a tree cannot be felled safely in one piece, the tree shall be topped and/or sectioned.

G. Felling Lodged Trees: Under no circumstances shall an attempt be made to fell the tree supporting the lodged tree or climbing up the inclined trunk of the lodged tree to shake it loose. If the butt of the tree is free of stump, a 1" rope or winch cable long enough to place all men and equipment outside of the falling or kickback radius should be fastened to the tree butt. The rope or cable should be pulled as nearly directly back from the direction of fall as possible. If the tree is too firmly lodged to be pulled out the adjacent tree may be climbed and limbs from the lodged tree carefully removed. The pulling operation should then be resumed. Cutting off sections of the butt of the lodged tree should be avoided.

H Notch: A Standard Notch should be used in the majority of cases. The notch shall be at right angles to the direction of pull. Make two cuts, one parallel or horizontal to the ground, the other at an angle of 45 degrees. The depth should be from 1/4 to 1/3 the diameter of the tree.

I. Back cut: The back cut should be horizontal and about two inches above the horizontal cut of the notch.

Bring the back cut in evenly until there is approximately two inches of holding wood left.

J. Felling: Before sawing into the two inches of holding wood the power saw operator shall have an adequate and clear escape route to one side of, and away from, the direction of the fall and ensure that all is in readiness for the tree to fall safely. Once this is done the tree can be felled.

K. With the exception of stump removal, all specified removals at any one location shall be completed, including removal of logs and debris, before initiating work in another location unless approved otherwise by the COR.

3.03 STUMP GRINDING AND SEEDING

3.03.1 Stump Grinding shall consist of the grinding and removal of all stump materials, backfilling holes with topsoil, and overseeding to establish turf. All stump grinding will be monitored by the Park archaeologist.

A. Stumps indicated for grinding shall be ground with a stump grinder to a minimum depth of 12 inches below grade, unless greater depth is required in order to plant new tree. Grinding shall include the main stump and all buttress (surface) roots to a minimum distance of 48” from the center of the stump in all directions. All grinds will be removed and disposed offsite.

B. Grubbing stumps shall not be permitted unless approved otherwise by the COR.

C. The resulting depression(s) shall be refilled with topsoil in uniform 8 (-10) inch layers and compacted by hand tamping or ramming to a maximum density of 75%.

D. After placement and hand tamping of topsoil all bare areas shall be overseeded with a certified blend of certified Perennial Ryegrass (Lolium perenne) consisting of three varieties of which no one variety should exceeds 40% or is less than 20% at a rate of ½ lb per 1,000 square feet.

E. After placement of seed the surface shall be scarified using a hand rake to cover the seed and ensure good soil/seed contact. Surface shall be covered with pelleted seed establishment mulch.

3.04 BOLLARD RESETTING AND INSTALLATION

3.04.1 All pre-existing bollards in tree wells are to be reset and/or removed and re-installed after tree(s) have been planted, prior to mulching. Any bollards and/or foundations not salvageable are to be replaced, in-kind.

A. Contractor will be responsible for securing any permits required through city, state, and local utility companies as necessary. Coordination with the Street Department may be required.

B. For conditions under curb and asphalt paving, Contractor to reference PennDOT standards for typical subsurface conditions.

PART 4: ACCEPTANCE AND PAYMENT

4.01 ACCEPTANCE

A. The Contractor shall include with all invoices for payment an Acceptance Report signed by the Contractor's Certified Arborist and the designated park representative that all work partially or completely performed conforms to contract requirements. In the event that the designated park representative and the Contractor disagree on work completed and accepted, his or her comments shall be noted thereon or attached thereto. The Acceptance Report will serve to document in writing completed work and/or deficiencies and to determine whether the provisions for the deduction clause applies.

B. Failure of the contractor to obtain signed inspection and acceptance reports will release the Government from any obligation to pay for services claimed but not documented by a signed inspection and acceptance report.

4.02 PAYMENT

A. The amount to be paid will be based on the actual bid items completed and accepted. Quantities so measured will be paid for at the specified item bid price.

B. The National Park Service reserves the right to conduct any testing or inspection it may deem advisable prior to payment to assure that all work conforms to the specifications herein.

C. Invoices shall be submitted through IPP.