Attachment B - GM SOW_Barrancas_828.pdf

Barrancas National Cemetery Grounds Maintenance Services, & Headstone Services

Section B

B.1 DESCRIPTION / SPECIFICATIONS / WORK STATEMENT

B.2 BACKGROUND

The Department of Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration (NCA), honors Veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our nation.

There are approximately 155 National Cemeteries in 39 states that receive visitors, hold ceremonies, and conduct committal services on an ongoing basis. As the final resting place for our nation’s heroes, the standards for management, maintenance and appearance of these cemeteries have been established by the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) to reflect this nation’s concern and respect for those interred there, therefor strict adherence to the following specifications is essential.

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

B.3 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

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

Cemetery

Address

Acreage

Required

Services

Barrancas National

Cemetery

1 Cemetery Road

NAS Pensacola

Pensacola, FL

32580

95 acres developed 50 acres of pasture.

Grounds

Maintenance

Headstone

Turf Maintenance

Facilities

Maintenance

B.4 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS & SPECIFICATIONS

B.4.a SERVICES PROVIDED: The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to perform the following Grounds Maintenance Services at

Barrancas National Cemetery. The contractor shall provide the workforce and all resources necessary to perform and complete multiple grounds maintenance requirements simultaneously to maintain an acceptable appearance of the cemetery grounds.

B.4.b DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES.

1. The National Cemetery Administration (NCA), Barrancas National Cemetery has an immediate need for Grounds, Turf, Headstone, Columbarium, Lawn, Tree, Shrub, Plant bed, Maintenance, Irrigation System Maintenance and Testing, Debris, and Leaf Removal. The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, tools, supervision, and other items and services necessary to ensure total cemetery maintenance is performed at Barrancas National

Cemetery in a manner that shall maintain healthy grass, trees, shrubs, and plants and present a clean, neat and professional appearance throughout.

2. Services include, but are not limited to: maintenance of grounds, to include regular mowing, weed eating, edge trimming of roadways, removal of trash, leaves, and debris, as well as, irrigation system operation, inspection and maintenance (to include pump house monitoring gravesite maintenance, to include sunken grave and grounds repair and cleaning and trimming around headstones and markers; plant material maintenance, to include maintenance of planting and mulch beds (to include tree rings), and tree & shrub trimming and pruning; lawn / turf maintenance, to include sod installation, aerification, de- thatching, application of fertilizers and herbicides/pesticides, lime application (as indicated by soil tests), and weed control; pest control; storm debris clean-up, support services, to include removal of gravesite flags and holiday wreaths; headstone services, to include transport and setting of all initial, subsequent, and replacement headstones at correct gravesite; cleaning and washing of headstones, committal shelters, Memorial Plaza, walkways/sidewalks, buildings, structures and curbs.

3. Contractor shall keep buffer zone areas clean and free from trash, debris, plant growth, and fallen limbs.

4. All work shall be performed during normal workdays from 8:00am – 4:30pm local time

(Monday thru Friday - excluding Federal Holidays). Work performed outside of normal work hours shall be at the discretion and approval of the VA Contracting Officer's Representative

(COR).

5. The Period of Performance for this project shall consist of a Base Year (12 Months) and 4

Option years (if exercise)

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

7. Contractor shall understand and meet all current applicable NCA Operational Standards and

Measures (Attachment or Appendix). Minor changes in standards shall be at no cost to the government (i.e timeline to perform tasks).

8. Contractor shall coordinate work in advanced with COR to minimize the impact to cemetery operations. COR shall be notified in writing of all completed work by COB or no later than

10:00am the next business day.

B.4.1 GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

B.4.1.1 MOWING TURF AREA (Approx. 25 acres)

B.4.1.2 MOWING NON-TURF/PASTURE AREA (Approx. 23 acres)

B.4.1.3 EDGING OF WALKWAYS AND CURBS

B.4.1.4

TRIMMING OF HEADSTONES, MONUMENTS, FLAT

MARKERS, AND OTHER VERTICLE SURFACES

B.4.1.5

TRASH, DEBRIS, LIMBS, WEEDS AND UNSIGHTLY

GROWTH REMOVAL

B.4.1.6

UNDERGROUND SPRINKLER SYSTEM

OPERATION, INSPECTION, AND MAINTENANCE

B.4.1.6a

INSPECT IRRIGATION SYSTEM, PERIODIC DIAGNOSTIC,

TROUBLESHOOTING AND REPAIR

SERVICE

B.4.1.6b REPAIR / REPLACE POP-UP, ROTATING IRRIGATION

HEADS

B.4.1.6c

REPAIR / REPLACE POP-UP IRRIGATION HEADS

B.4.1.6d REPAIR IRRIGATIONLINE LEAKS 1 ¼” TO 2”

B.4.1.6e REPAIR IRRIGATION LINE LEAK 2 1/4” TO 4”

B.4.1.6f REPAIR IRRIGATION LINE LEAKS 4 ¼” TO 6”

B.4.1.6g REPAIR / REPLACE IRRIGATION VALVE

B.4.1.6h REPAIR / REPLACE SECTION IRRIGATION SOLENOID

B.4.1.6i ADJUST IRRIGATION HEAD

B.4.1.6j ADJUST BASE MANAGER ZONE TIME SETTINGS

B.4.1.6k EMERGENCY, CALL BACK FOR REPAIR OF LEAKS (MON –

FRI, DUTY HOURS 12 HOUR RESPONSE)

B.4.1.6l

EMERGENCY, CALL BACK FOR REPAIR OF LEAKS (NON-

DUTY DAY, AFTER HOURS, 6 HOUR RESPONSE)

B.4.1.6m

IRRIGATION SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

B.4.1.7

CLEAN SIGNAGE, MEMORIAL PLAQUES, AND INSIGNIA

B.4.1.8

FLAG POLES INSPECTION, MAINTENANCE, REPAIR

B.4.2 GRAVESITE MAINTENANCE

B.4.2.1 SUNKEN GRAVE REPAIR & GROUNDS REPAIR

B.4.3 LEAF COLLECTION & REMOVAL: 9 WEEKS

B.4.4 PLANT MATERIAL MAINTENANCE

B.4.4.1 PLANTING BEDS

B.4.4.2 MULCHING

B.4.4.3 TREE TRIMMING / PRUNING /SHRUB

B.4.5

LAWN / TURF MAINTENANCE

B.4.5.1

SUPPLY & INSTALL SOD

B.4.5.2 CORE AERIFICATION

B.4.5.3 DETHATCHING

B.4.5.4 OVERSEEDING

B.4.5.5 FERTILIZATION

B.4.5.6 LIME APPLICATION

B.4.5.7 WEED CONTROL

B.4.6 PEST CONTROL

B.4.6.1 ARMADILLOS/MOLES, AND OTHER PEST

B.4.6.2 FIRE ANT CONTROL

B.4.6.3 PESTICIDES AND INSECTICIDES

B.4.6.4 SOIL TESTING AND RECOMMENDATIONS

B.4.6.5 Operational Flow Chart Warm Season Turfgrass

Areas

B.4.7 STORM DAMAGE AND DEBRIS CLEAN-UP

B.4.8 SUPPORT SERVICES

B.4.8.

SUPPORT SERVICES FOR SPECIAL EVENT FLAG /

PLACEMENT & PICKUP

B.4.9

HEADSTONE TRANSPORT, SETTING, AND

REALIGNMENT

B.4.9.1 HEADSTONE TRANSPORT TO GRAVESITE

B.4.9.2 HEADSTONE SETTING

B.4.9.3 HEADSTONE REALIGNMENT

B.4.9.4

HEADSTONE DISPOSAL

B.4.10

B.4.11

B.4.11.1

B4.12

B.4.13

CLEANING AND PRESSURE WASHING

CLEANING OF HEADSTONES AND MARKERS

WALKWAYS, STRUCTURES AND CURBS

CONTRACT MANAGEMENT

B.4.13.1 CONTRACTING OFFICER

B.4.13.2

CONTRACTING OFFICER’S REPRESENTATIVE

(COR)

B.4.13.3 CONTRACTOR STAFFING REQUIREMENTS

B.4.13.4 SITE SUPERVISOR REQUIREMENTS

B.4.13.5 EMPLOYEE REQUIREMENTS

B.4.14

CONTRACTOR/EMPLOYEE CODE OF

CONDUCT

B.4.15 WORK HOURS/SCHEDULE

B.4.16 CONTRACTOR FURNISHED ITEMS

B.4.17 QUALITY ASSURANCE PLAN

SCOPE OF WORK

B.4.1 GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

1. NCA Cemetery Operations Operational Standards and Measures, Feb. 2021

Category 5, Grounds Maintenance

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

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

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

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

Bare Areas.

• Measure 2.4b: Visually Prominent Areas with established turf are maintained within one inch above the range of that which is professionally recommended for that type of turf and geographic region according to the Cemetery Grounds

Management Plan.

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

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

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

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

2. The contractor shall mow, edge, and trim all grass within the cemetery and the perimeter tree line and walls. All damage due to contractors equipment or operations shall be repaired and/or replaced by the contractor at no cost to the government. Contractor is responsible to report any damages immediately to the COR.

3. Note: Bermuda Grass height shall be maintained at 1 ½ to 2 inches or as directed by the

COR. Cutting height shall be established as per required in the Turf Maintenance Plan, with approval from the District Agronomist.

B.4.1.1 MOWING TURF AREA: 44 WEEKS

1. (Appr. 4,138,200sq. ft of turf) All Mowing will be done a minimum of once a week during growing season, which is YEAR-ROUND (MINUS A BRIEF DORMANT PERIOD), or as directed by the COR. The growing season may require mowing twice weekly due to favorable weather conditions to keep the turf from growing more than one (1) inch above the maximum recommended height of 2 inches. Mowing should be performed often enough so that no more than 1/3 of leafage is removed at any-one mowing. Advanced Written Notice and COR Approval is required prior to mowing more than once a week.

2. Scalping is not acceptable. Where scalping is evident, and does not recover, the Contractor will be responsible for repair of the damage at no cost to the Government.

3. After mowing, no excessive thatch will be permitted to remain on the turf. Visible rows or clumps of turf clippings shall not be allowed to remain on turf areas that have been cut. All clippings must be removed from the site. No clippings or trimmings shall be left in any of the flower beds, mulch, or paved areas.

4. Turf in burial and public areas should be maintained at a height within one-inch range of that which is professionally recommended for the recommended grass type for that geographic region.

5. Optimally, the height should be no more than half an inch (½) above that range. Grass is trimmed on borders.

6. TOP DRESSING AREAS WITH RUTS FROM TURF MOWING TO BE

COMPLETED ONCE A YEAR (DORMANT PERIOD). PROPER TOP-DRESSING

TECHNIQUES SHALL BE UTILIZED (EXAMPLE – SAND) AND SHALL BE

APPROVED BY THE COR PRIOR TO COMPLETION.

B.4.1.2 : MOWING NON-TURF/PASTURE AREA: 44 WEEKS

1. (Appr. 1,200,000 sq. ft of non-turf) All Mowing will be done a minimum of once a week during growing season, which is March through December, or as directed by the COR. The growing season may require mowing twice weekly due to favorable weather conditions to keep the turf from growing above the maximum recommended height of 1.5”-2” inches. Mowing should be performed often enough so that no more than 1/3 of leafage is removed at anyone mowing. Advanced

Written Notice and COR Approval is required prior to mowing more than once a week.

2. If fire prevention bush hogging (non turf areas) COR will instruct when it will be completed

2. Scalping is not acceptable. Where scalping is evident, and does not recover, the Contractor will be responsible for repair of the damage at no cost to the Government.

3. After mowing no excessive thatch/clippings will be permitted to remain. Visible rows or clumps of turf clippings shall not be allowed to remain on turf areas that have been cut. All clippings must be removed from the site. No clippings or trimmings shall be left in any of the flower beds, mulch areas or paved areas.

B.4.1.3 : EDGING OF WALKWAYS,CURBS AND OTHER HORIZONTAL SURFACES:

44 WEEKS

1. (Appr. 14,500 linear ft of roadway) All edging will be done a minimum of once per week during the growing season, which is YEAR-ROUND (MINUS A BRIEF DORMANT

PERIOD), or as directed by the COR.

2. All streets, curbs, walkways, irrigation control boxes, control markers, manhole covers, and crypt field drain clean-out covers shall be vertically edged with a bladed edger inside and outside cemetery grounds.

3. All streets, curbs, walkways, irrigation control boxes, control markers, manhole covers, and crypt field drain clean-out covers will be blown clean after mowing, trimming, and edging before close of business on the day edging occurs.

4. All edging will be followed with a string trimmer to dress the top line of the grass.

5. The COR will conduct random inspections of edging weekly.

B.4.1.4 : TRIMMING OF HEADSTONES, MONUMENTS, FLAT MARKERS, AND

OTHER VERTICLE SURFACES: 44 WEEKS

1. (Appr. 49,427 Headstones) Will be done a minimum of once a week during growing season, which is March through December, or as directed by the COR. The growing season may require trimming twice weekly due to favorable weather conditions to keep the turf from growing more than One (1) inch above the maximum recommended height of 2 inches.

2. All trimmings shall follow the mowing schedule.

3. Trimming will be performed no more than one workday behind the mowers. All un-mowed grass around headstones, monuments, markers, rocks, trees, and other vertical surfaces shall be trimmed to keep the grass at the height standard described in NCA Operational Standards and

Measures (Attachment or Appendix).

6. Care will be taken near headstones to prevent damage to the headstone. Grass clippings/stains will be removed from headstone bases after trimming.

7. Scalping is not acceptable. Trimmers will be kept level to prevent scalping between and around headstones. All string trimmers shall always have anti-scalping devices attached. Where scalping is evident, and does not recover, the Contractor will be responsible for repair of the damage at no cost to the Government.

8. Discarded trimmer string shall be removed from the grounds after trimming operations are complete.

9. Clippings will be blown off Flat Markers after trimming/edging. Care will be taken that no clippings will be blown into mulch beds. Any clippings will be cleaned from mulch beds by close of business on the day trimming occurs.

10. The walkways and non-grass surfaces (inside and outside the cemetery), flagpole bases, interment areas, and roads will be cleared of grass clippings and leaves after mowing, string trimming, and edging.

11. Visibly prominent areas, such as administrative offices, public restrooms, shelters, pavilions, and columbarium, will have clippings blown or swept from roads and walkways as soon as the operation causing debris is completed.

12. Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds, or equipment during grounds maintenance operations must be reported to the COR immediately. Contractor will be responsible for repair or replacement of all damage.

B.4.1.5 : TRASH, DEBRIS, LIMB, WEEDS AND UNSIGHTLY GROWTH REMOVAL:

26 Weeks

Category 3, Facilities Maintenance

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

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

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

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

2. All trash, debris, and all fallen tree limbs and branches not attached to the tree shall be removed from the Cemetery areas a minimum of once each workday or as necessary. Any limbs or branches attached to the tree hanging down shall be reported to the COR as soon as possible for action.

3. The contractor shall provide the necessary labor and suitable conveyance each workday for pickup of trash, debris, from the Cemetery’s grounds.

4. A dumpster placement area shall be in a designated area of the cemetery and screened from public view.

5. Removal and disposal of debris from the Cemetery’s grounds shall be the responsibility of the contractor for all items found in and around the Cemetery.

B.4.1.6. UNDERGOUND SPRINKLER SYSTEM OPERATION, INSPECTION, AND

MAINTENANCE: 12 MONTHS

A. SCOPE: Work consists of operation and minor maintenance of the installed sprinkler system. Barrancas National Cemetery has approximately 120 acres of irrigated turf.

B. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. DESCRIPTION: The work specified herein shall be provided to facilitate the successful and ongoing operation of an automatically controlled underground landscape irrigation system, including system controllers and control devices, control valves, sprinkler heads and accessible field wiring, and startup in the spring and shutdown in the fall. Buried and inaccessible system piping and wiring, while not specifically excluded, are not included under inspection and maintenance requirements of this document.

2. INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE: This contract includes irrigation system startup and operation, as well as shutdown and winterization in the fall if required. It also includes regular diagnostic and repair service, including emergency callback service, and periodic inspections and preventative maintenance of all above-ground system components, controllers, control devices, and replacing damaged or inoperable sprinkler heads (per the COR).

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

(1) Underground Irrigation Systems with Stand-Alone Controllers

a. Provide monthly examination of irrigation system by walking site and performing a thorough inspection of grounds and irrigation components. Contractor shall observe the sprinkler for

2 full rotations in all zones. 1x monthly February through December and make report available to

COR.

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

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

d. Visibly inspect controller grounding grid for good mechanical connection.

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

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

g. Repair or replace any broken or malfunctioning spray devices as identified within a

5day period. Repair and replacement parts shall be furnished by contractor.

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

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

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

k. Test all controller grounding for proper resistance according to equipment manufacturers recommendations. Provide written report detailing grounding resistance for each controller, highlighting deficient ground locations, and notifying the site manager of required action. 2x annually

(2) Underground Irrigation Systems with Computer-based Central Control. Shall be performed monthly when in operation, and specific items also addressed as needed when problems are noted, or more frequently if recommended by the manufacturer.

a. Perform all system inspection and maintenance tasks as outlined in the previous section for

Underground Irrigation Systems with Stand-Alone Controllers.

b. Routinely check software event logs to verify system has been operating properly. Adjust program settings in the software and make required program modifications to respond to site issues or problems as necessary as weather and season dictates.

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

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

f. Verify that system Weather Station is operating properly monthly. Perform preventive maintenance service to Weather Station to meet manufacturer’s recommendations.

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

3. WORK NOT INCLUDED:

a. Maintenance service shall not include the performance of any work required because of improper use, accidents, or negligence for which the contractor is not directly responsible.

b. Any work determined to still be under warranty from another entity shall be identified to the COR immediately. Remedial action may be taken to mediate damage to government property.

B.4.1.7 Site Signage 26X PER YEAR

a. Clean Site Signage and Section Markers as needed (usually weekly after mowing & trimming near signage, (one week prior to Memorial Day and Veterans Day), and at the direction of the

B.4.1.8 FLAG POLES INSPECTION, MAINTENANCE, REPAIR (4x PER YEAR)

a. The Contractor shall keep the flagpole free of all dirt, dust, debris, foreign materials, and graffiti.

The contractor shall inspect the flagpole and all its components to ensure they are working properly every quarter (4x a year).

b. Maintain internal halyard components in accordance with manufacturer’s printed instructions

c. Contractor will repair flag poles.

1. Maintain Exterior and Interior Lighting

a. Maintain all interior and exterior lighting including Committal Shelter, the U.S. Flag at Committal

Shelters, and Memorial Plaza. At no time shall the U.S. flag be allowed to fly unlit except in the event of unplanned power failures. The Contractor shall furnish all replacement lamps.

B.4.2 GRAVESITE MAINTENANCE

B.4.2.7 SUNKEN GRAVE AND GROUNDS REPAIR

A. SCOPE:

Sub-Category 2: Turf / Mineral Base o Standard 2.8: The grade of every gravesite blends in with adjacent grade levels.

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

Category 8, Safety

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

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

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

• Measure 1.2b: Safety hazards (holes, hazardous trees and branches, sprinkler heads, etc.) identified and corrective action initiated within the same workday.

2. Work consists of compacting and leveling sunken grave sites and/or inground cremation burial sites with suitable soil to match existing adjacent graves and reestablishing the turfgrass. The cemetery will be checked for holes and washouts and when found they shall be filled immediately.

Sites must be visually appealing with no gaps between turf and level with adjacent sites.

3. Damage to the grounds occurs due to pests and can be the cause of injury to visitors and personnel. The cemetery will be checked for pest holes regularly and when found they shall be filled immediately.

B. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

1. A sunken grave site or inground cremation burial site is defined as any gravesite that has receded two (2) inches from the existing adjacent grade. Standard graves excavated and backfilled are approximately three and one-half feet wide and approximately eight feet long.

2. The Contractor will identify and immediately report sunken grave or cremains requiring repair. The contractor shall report all identified sunken grave site or inground cremation burial site by section and grave number prior to being repaired/ fixed to the COR for verification and inspection. Cemetery staff will be responsible to repair/fix graves that have sunk/settled within

60 days from the date of internment.

3. Refilling of sunken grave site or inground cremation burial site shall be accomplished as soon as possible but shall be accomplished two (2) business days after receipt of weekly inspection sheet.

4. Partially sunken grave site or inground cremation burial site may occur after weather events.

This can appear as a small to medium hole outlining the grave or headstone setting. This type of grade issue can cause injury to visitors and staff and must be repaired same day observed.

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

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

C. PROCEDURE:

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

(1) inch measured in any direction.

2. All damaged graves shall be secured with safety barriers, by grave boards or cones, until repairs can be affected, to prevent injury to visitors and personnel.

3. Whenever possible, sod should be reutilized.

4. Area should be tamped level after filling the hole.

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

B.4.3 : LEAF COLLECTION & REMOVAL: 9 WEEKS (FALL)

Category 1, Customer Satisfaction

Sub-Category 1: Survey o Standard 1.1: Visually prominent areas, turf, sand, or mineral-based ground cover are maintained in a manner that is appropriate for the medium in place.

• Measure 1.1: The percent of respondents to the annual Customer Satisfaction

Survey (CSS) who agree or strongly agree that the overall appearance of the cemetery is excellent.

o Standard 2.2: All sand, mineral, or turf is free of debris, i.e., leaves, fallen branches, and trash.

• Measure 2.2b: Sand, mineral, or turf areas are cleared of leaves and other natural debris, as needed, or at least weekly.

2. (Appr. 4,138,200 sq. ft of turf) Work consists of collecting and removing from the cemetery grounds and the immediate area outside the cemetery wall, all fallen leaves, pinecones, nuts, and twigs as frequently as necessary to keep a debris free appearance.

3. Leaf collection and removal will be accomplished during the autumn and winter months as required. All fallen leaves must be removed during this period, except when delayed by the onset of severe weather conditions.

4. COR will schedule removal work accordingly. Random inspections will be conducted daily.

A leaf collection will consist of 10 large (50 gal) construction bags.

5. Leaf cleaning shall be coordinated with COR. Leaf cleaning should use the same section schedule as followed with the section mowing schedule.

6. Heavy accumulation may require certain areas to be collected more frequently as directed by the COR. Leaves, nuts, and twigs will be hand raked, vacuumed, or blown by machines from interment areas into the roadways, and then collected and properly disposed of from cemetery grounds which includes right of way outside cemetery walls. Any accumulation of mulched leaves will be removed from the cemetery.

7. The Contractor will inspect all areas of the cemetery during this period and ensure that there is no accumulation of leaves in any area. Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds or equipment during grounds maintenance operations must be reported to the COR immediately.

B.4.4 PLANT MATERIAL MAINTENANCE: 12 (MONTLY)

B.4.1.1 : PLANTING BEDS

Sub-Category 4: Planting Beds o Standard 4.1: Cemetery Planting Beds are well maintained, attractive, and compatible with the geographic region.

• Measure 4.1a: Planting beds are Generally Weed-Free.

• Measure 4.1b: Plants in planting beds are healthy, free of pests and disease, and are maintained in accordance with the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

2. Plants and planting beds are to be maintained in a healthy, vigorous, condition free of pests and disease. Cemetery planting beds are well maintained and attractive and generally weed free.

3. Weed Control: All mulched areas shall be kept free of weeds by hand weeding or careful spot spraying with a non-selective herbicide Finale or Cheata Pro (Glufosinate Ammonium) monthly from April through October. To reduce weed emergence, the pre-emergence herbicide Snapshot (or equivalent) shall be applied at the maximum label-allowed rate to all mulched areas twice per year, in

April and September.

B.4.4.2: MULCHING: SEMI-ANNUAL(2X)

1. All trees, and shrubs located on the Cemetery grounds must be mulched semi-annually(2x yearly). Mulch around trees and in other beds will be maintained continuously (year around) in an attractive 2-4” thick layer.

2. Mulch will be Brown Cypress Mulch. Beds will be kept edges and esthetically pleasing to the eye of the public and maintained free of weeds, sticks, stones, clippings, and other foreign material.

3. Existing mulch will be removed before any new mulch is placed.

4. Mulch shall be pulled back 4” from the trunks of trees and shrubs; level with the surrounding area (to reduce pest damage potential and allow the bark to dry), forming a circle, then sloped up to the 4” depth.

5. Fresh, mulch will be added one week before Memorial Day and/or as required by the COR.

6. Contractor will provide all mulching materials.

7. Mulch must be Brown Cypress Mulch and not contain any grey or discolored mulch content.

8. COR will identify trees to be mulched. A cemetery map identifying locations and number of trees requiring mulching will be provided by the COR.

9. Weed Control: All mulched areas shall be kept free of weeds by hand weeding or careful spot spraying with a non-selective herbicide monthly from April through October. NOTE: Glyphosate products are prohibited from use without the written permission of the District Agronomist.

To reduce weed emergence, a pre-emergence herbicide shall be applied at the maximum label-allowed rate to all mulched areas in conjunction with non-selective herbicide April through October.

B.4.4.3: TREE & SHRUB TRIMMING / PRUNING / MAINTENANCE: 12 (MONTHLY)

Sub-Category 3: Trees and Shrubs o Standard 3.2: Trees and shrubs are healthy, and free of pests and disease, and/or are maintained in accordance with the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

• Measure 3.2: Trees and shrubs are healthy and free of pests and disease, and/or are maintained in accordance with the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

2. Work consists of, but is not limited to, maintaining Cemetery shrubs, trees, and beds in a healthy and attractive condition by proper fertilization, pruning, and trimming, on a monthly basis.

3. The types of pruning generally used in the tree industry are as follows: Crown Cleaning, Crown Thinning, Crown Raising, and Crown Restoration as found in ANSI A300 standards.

• Crown Cleaning: This shall consist of the selective removal of one or more of the following items: dead, dying, diseased, weak branches and water sprouts from a trees crown.

• Crown Thinning: This shall consist of the selective removal of branches to increase light penetration, air movement, and reduce weight.

• Crown Raising: This shall consist of the removal of the lower branches of a tree to provide clearance.

• Crown Shaping: This reduces the height and or spread of a tree. Consideration should be given to the ability of a species to sustain this type of pruning.

• Crown Restoration: This shall improve the structure, form, and appearance of trees that have been severely headed, vandalized or storm damaged

4. Contractor is required to maintain all trees in specified areas of the contract.

5. All other trees and shrubs shall be trimmed and maintained to its form, shape, size, and type according to industry standards.

6. Trees shall be maintained in a condition that is free of broken limbs, low branches and

“suckers” that pose a safety hazard to people or equipment.

7. Cuts for limb or branch removal will be made just outside the branch-bark collar to minimize wound closure time by the plant. All limbs one inch in diameter or over must be pre-cut to prevent spitting. Branches 3.5 inches or larger in diameter should be lowered by ropes to the ground. Any structural weakness, decayed trunk of branches, spit crotches, or branches should be immediately reported to the COR

8. Shrub / Hedges will be trimmed to promote a healthy and attractive appearance and uniform growth over all parts of the plant, with the bottom wider than the top. Shrub and Hedges shall be kept free of dead branches and leaves.

9. The saucers (watering basins, tree rings) around planted trees will be kept free of grass and weeds. Pine Bark, pine straw, mulch (or equivalent) will be added when required. Material is to be supplied by the Contractor.

10. Hedges will be trimmed to promote a healthy and attractive appearance and uniform growth over all parts of the plant, with the bottom wider than the top. Hedges and shrubs shall be kept free of dead branches, leaves and all weed growth. Weeds and their root system will be removed.

11. Beds containing shrubs shall be kept attractive and free of weeds. Brown mulch (or equivalent) will be added when required. Material is to be supplied by the Contractor. Dead or dying plant material shall be reported to the COR. Replacement plants, if needed, shall be furnished by the COR, and planted by the Contractor, as funds are available.

B.4.5. LAWN / TURF MAINTENANCE

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

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

Bare Areas.

• Measure 2.4b: Visually Prominent Areas with established turf are maintained within one inch above the range of that which is professionally recommended for that type of turf and geographic region according to the Cemetery Grounds

Management Plan.

2. Contractor shall be responsible for maintaining the turf area of the cemetery and the immediate surrounding areas of the cemetery in a healthy condition by proper application of fertilizers and chemicals (to control weeds, diseases, and pests).

3. Turf in burial and non-burial areas should be 90% weed free. Pest and disease-free turf should cover at least 95 % of the area. The Cemetery will provide the Contractor a map to show this area.

4. The Contractor shall provide all the supervision, labor, equipment, tools, applicators, hoses, and other supplies necessary to control weeds, disease, and pests for Barrancas National

Cemetery.

5. The Contractor shall provide at least one (1) State Certified Chemical Applicator, licensed for the State of Barrancas onsite when administering herbicides and/or pesticides.

6. The Contractor shall furnish all required chemicals, fertilizers, and any other supplies.

7. The Contractor shall determine the necessary formulation of fertilizers and the required amount of lime as indicated by the soil test.

8. Soil tests are obtained by the Contractor and the results will be shared with the COR and Cemetery to select the correct formulation of fertilizer and gypsum applications

B.4.5.1 : SUPPLY & INSTALL SOD: (500 SQFT)

o Standard 2.9: Gravesite openers and re-openers avoid damage and ensure continuation of a well-established, healthy stand of turf, presenting a disciplined evolution, not a construction site.

• Measure 2.9a: Interments (first and subsequent) during the growing season that show healthy turf re-established within 60 days of the interment.

• Measure 2.9b: Winter grave re-openers that show healthy turf re-established within 60 days of the start of the growing season.

2. Work consists of sod bed preparation and sodding of areas of the cemetery where the turf has been disturbed or has died.

2. Approximately 500 SQ FT may require resodding/seeding annually. Sod for areas will generally be acquired by the Contractor from a local sod producer. SOD must be compatible type and certified.

5. The Contractor may be allowed to store sod in a designated area.

6. The Contractor shall be responsible for the removal and disposition of poor-quality soil and shall refill the site with quality topsoil and perform the sodding/seeding to include the bare areas to ensure a quality turf.

7. Delivery tickets, indicating date, weight, analysis, purity, and vendor’s name, etc. of sod and seed are to be submitted to the COR.

1. Kind of Sod

a) Type: Celebration Bermuda, Common, Tif-Way 419, Tif -Tuff

b) Purity: 98 – 99%

2. Only cultivars of grass sod that have been adapted in the State of Florida and certified by the

State Agronomy Testing Laboratory shall be accepted. Any substitution of sod type, weight, or application shall be specifically approved by the COR in writing. Sod shall be free of all noxious weeds.

3. The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing and watering all sodded areas and maintaining them in a healthy and vigorous condition. Rather than operating the irrigation system only for individual gravesites where sod is being established, those gravesites will be spot watered with hoses or other watering methods as needed when routine irrigation or rainfall is insufficient for the new sod.

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

B.4.5.2 CORE AERIFICATION: SEMI-ANNUAL(2X)

1. When conditions are favorable (i.e., grass not stressed and is actively growing, soil not too wet or dry) in early September, all accessible turf shall be core aerified 1x yearly .

Compacted and high traffic areas 2x yearly.

2. Aerification requirements are as follows:

a. Depth: 3 or more inches

b. Density: 12 or more holes per square foot

c. Core Diameter: 5/8 to 1.0 inch

2. A rotary, pull-behind core aerator may be used, but two or more passes may be required to achieve 12 holes per square foot.

3. Turf immediately within headstone rows (immediately between and along adjacent headstones, and to a distance of about one foot on either side of the rows, or as directed by the COR) shall not be aerified to reduce risk of damage to the headstones and markers.

4. It is imperative that headstones, grave markers, and section markers not be chipped, scratched, or otherwise damaged in any way. Contractor and Cemetery staff will work together to mark all irrigation heads, valve boxes, in-ground permanent vases or other in-ground obstructions.

5. Aerification cores may be left on the turf surface.

6. Contractor shall clean any soil or other debris resulting from this operation off all roads and sidewalks immediately following the work.

7. In addition, to prevent importation of weeds or other pests, the equipment shall be cleaned prior to bringing it to the cemetery

B.4.5.3 : DETHATCHING: (APPR. 45 ACRES) (1JB)

1. No more than 1/2-inch thatch layer shall exist at any time throughout the growing season.

2. The turf is to be dethatched in spring as provided in the Grounds Maintenance Plan. To minimize disruption to the cemetery, approximately 45 acres of turf may be treated per year.

3. Do not detach newly planted turf that has not been established for at least one full growing season.

4. Do not damage surrounding vegetation or structures, including but not limited to valve boxes, control markers, etc.

5. Remove thatch material immediately and transport off site per green waste disposal. Thatch material is not to be blown/swept into storm drains or mulch/planting beds.

6. Schedule additional mowing and trimming operations in response to major growth surge that accompanies thatch removal.

B.4.5.5 : FERTILIZATION: 4 TIMES PER YEAR

1. Shall be applied based on the results and recommendations of a soil test for each section. A minimum of 4 sections in cemetery must be done for soil test to give full comparison average.

Soil tests must be done at a minimum, but not limited to- 1x annually.

2. The soil test shall be done by Contractor with a copy of the results going to the COR and cemetery.

3. A complete fertilizer program will be applied during the growing season which is

YEAR-ROUND (MINUS A BRIEF DORMANT PERIOD) 4x annually.

4. Only a fertilizer that is recommended by the test results and the nitrogen formula used should be slow release. The rate applied shall be 1lbs- 1.15lbs N (Nitrogen), shall contain minor nutrients (S, Mn, Mg, Fe) using a minimum of 30% slow-release nitrogen, following the ratio per the Grounds Maintenance Plan.

• Application #1 February

• Application #2 April:

• Application #3 May

• Application #4: Aug:

*ALL APPLICATION RATES SHOULD BE BASED OFF OF MANUFACTURER’S

RECOMMENDATION AND VERIFIED BY COR PRIOR TO PLACEMENT*

B.4.5.6 : LIME APPLICATION:1X PER YEAR (IF NEEDED BY SOIL TEST

1. Lime shall be applied when required from results of a soil test 1x annually.

2. Time of application shall be in late fall or early winter unless local practice indicates a more favorable time. OR immediately following aerification of the cemetery.

B.4.5.7 : WEED/INSECT/PEST/DISEASE CONTROL:

1. All weed growth, insects, pest, and disease shall be controlled by means of mowing, trimming, spray / granular broadcast application or any other method approved the COR.

2. All personnel using such sprays shall be properly trained, and the person in charge shall be duly licensed by the State of Florida to use pesticides.

3. Treatment for weeds will be accomplished in the Year Round

4. Turf in high maintenance areas shall be 95% weed free.

5. Treatment for weeds will be accomplished to maximize effectiveness.

6. ONLY recommended herbicides (based on active ingredients) shall be used (see approved list below).

7. Rotation of Pre-emerge herbicides must observe. No Pre-Emerge herbicide will be allowed for consecutive use for that a 12-month period as best management practices shall be observed to manage resistance management of weeds.

*ALL MANUFACTURER’S RECOMMENDED APPLICATION RATES MUST BE

FOLLOWED AND VERIFIED BY COR PRIOR TO APPLICATION.

Note: The Contractor shall follow the Chemical Application Plan as set forth in the Cemetery

Grounds Maintenance plan.

B.4.6. PEST CONTROL

B.4.6.1 : ARMADILLOS, MOLES, AND OTHER PEST:

1. Armadillos, moles, and other pests shall be controlled by elimination of their food source using pesticides applied by a State of Florida licensed applicator.

2. The Contractor shall ensure that the soil shall always be tamped into the holes and the turf replaced or reseeded to insure acceptable appearance.

B.4.6.2 : CONTROL OF FIRE ANTS AND MOLE CRICKETS

Contractor shall apply necessary chemical applications to control fire ants and mole crickets.

FIPRONIL is the requirement, however, other options MAY be used with the approval of the COR.

B.4.6.3 : PESTICIDES AND INSECTICIDES:

1. Contractor will keep records of all pesticides / herbicides applied and furnish a copy to the

COR within five working days prior to application

2. Records will show chemical name, active ingredient, EPA registration number, amount, application area, weather conditions, etc. . As per State of Florida Department of

Agriculture

3. Signs will be posted informing the public that a chemical has been applied (Date and Time of

Application).

4. Turf in high maintenance areas shall be always at least 95 percent pest and disease free.

B.4.6.4:SOIL TESTING

1. The Contractor shall have the soil tested during the base year and every other option year before the spring fertilizer application. Soil tests shall be conducted by a qualified, independent, soils and plant laboratory, university laboratory, or an Agricultural Extension in the territory of Puerto Rico recognized by the State Department of Agriculture, with the experience and capability to conduct the testing indicated and that specializes in types of tests to be performed. Soil laboratories affiliated with vendors are not permitted.

2. The Contractor shall provide one (1) soil report and recommendations for each testing year. Soil extractions shall be performed in accordance with standard guidelines for agricultural soil sampling and under the observation of the COR. Soil samples shall be taken from areas within the cemetery that will properly represent the soil conditions. The soil tests shall clearly identify the cemetery section(s) from which the samples were taken to assist the contractor in the application of specific soil amendments. For each soil sample submitted to the laboratory, a minimum of 10 soil extractions shall be taken.

B.4.6.5 Operational Flow Chart Warm Season

Turfgrass Areas

Month(s) Activity Procedure/Product

January, March, October, November

Application of pre-emergent:

Spray Options

Ronstar Flo (Oxadiazon)- 88oz/per acre;

Specticle (Indaziflam)- 5oz-6oz/per acre;

Dimension 2EW (Dithiopr)- 32oz/ per acre *Only after 3rd year of contract*

NOTE: No Pre-emerge may be used over a consistent 12-period.

Chemical chemistry rotation must be used.

February through

December

Turfgrass Mowing Begin seasonal mowing as turfgrass approaches complete green-up.

Continue with rotary equip. possessing sharp blades on a frequency that will ensure removal of no more than 1/3 of leaf length during any single mowing event. Do not remove grass clippings and alternate direction of cut. Final seasonal mowing of turf to 2” as new growth ceases and turf goes dormant.

Feb/Mar/Apr/

Jun/Jul/Oct

Broadleaf Weed

Control Summer annuals &

Winter annuals

Spray selective herbicides when weeds are actively growing.

Treatment must occur before weeds produce seeds.

Quinclorac - 64/acre

Tribute Total- 3.2 oz/acre

MSM Turf - 1oz/acre

Avenue South- 64oz/acre

Dismiss- 10oz/acre

Katana- 3oz/acre

Repeat, if necessary, to achieve desired level of control.

Year round Weed prevention in landscape beds and other mulched areas

Apply pre-emergence herbicide prior to the germination of annual weeds.

Snapshot TG - 200 lb./acre

Surflan AS - 96oz /acre

A sprayable non-selective for in combination use is allowed.

February thru

December

Turfgrass fertilization

Apply complete analysis turfgrass fertilizer as recommended below.

Selected fertilizer shall contain a minimum 30% controlled release

Nitrogen from sulfur coated urea or similar product and minor nutrients (S, Mn, Mg, Fe). Each application must be applied at a rate no less than 1lbs-1.15 of Nitrogen (N) 1lbs/ per 1000sqft. Soil test shall reflect fertilizer analysis.

Example of Typical Program:

February 20-0-10 30%SCU- 200lbs/acre

April: - 20-0-6 30% SCU – 200lb./acre

June: 20-0-6 30% SCU – 200lb./acre

August: 20-0-6 30% SCU – 200lb./acre

Oct: - 20-0-10 30% SCU – 200lb./acre Dec: - 20-0-10 30% SCU – 200lb./acre

March thru

September

Mole, cricket, Army Worm, White

Grub Worm control and Fire Ant Control

Apply soil insecticide in turfgrass areas diagnosed with a mole cricket population above the standard damage threshold of 10 nymphs/sq. ft. For effective performance, this insecticide must receive sufficient water to move the active ingredient into the root feeding zone at the soil turfgrass interface, ¼ to ½ inch water. All other insects are to be controlled within label application rates per insecticide.

Primary Option: TopChoice (Fipronil)

Secondary Options (COR Approval Required):

Talstar (Bifenthrin), Provaunt (Indoxacarb),Tetrino (Tetraniliprole), Dylox, (Trichorfon), Scimitar GC (Lambda-cyhalothrin), Acelepryn

(Chlorantraniliprole), Advion (Indoxacarb)

Insecticides that are sparged/hotmelt onto fertilizer may applied per

COR and district agronomist.

NOTE: No Insecticide may be used over a consistent 12-period.

Chemical chemistry rotation must be used.

B.4.7 : STORM DAMAGE AND DEBRIS CLEAN-UP: (4 JB)

Category 8, Safety

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

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

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