Attachment B - SOW - GMS Ft. McClellan Post Cemetery.pdf

SOW – 955 – Grounds Maintenance Services

Scope of Work

DESCRIPTION / SPECIFICATIONS / WORK STATEMENT

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

This Statement of Work describes the basic objectives of Fort McClellan Post Cemetery.

II. INTRODUCTION

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

III. BACKGROUND

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.

1. This is a performance-based service contract for cemetery Grounds and Facilities maintenance, hereafter referred to as “Services”, at Fort McClellan Post Cemetery, 540

Goode Road Anniston, AL 36201; hereafter referred to as “Cemetery”.

2. The overall responsibility of the Contractor is to plan and perform the activities associated with statements of work as described herein, which are required to maintain an acceptable appearance of the cemetery grounds in accordance with National Cemetery Administration

Operational Standards and Measures.

3. National cemeteries are a resting place for our nation’s heroes and as such, 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. The NCA mission: The NCA honors veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our nation.

4. All contracts with NCA are subject to Privacy and Records Management procedures to establish proper safeguard of Privacy Information. VA Handbook 6500.6 Appendix C must be reviewed by all contractors.

IV. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

Fort McClellan Post Cemetery is in Calhoun County, Anniston, Alabama. This cemetery is closed to new

(first) interments. The estimated burial rate per year is 5.

The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to provide

Grounds and Facility Maintenance Services to the Cemetery. Specific location, size and services required for the cemetery are as follows:

Cemetery Address Acreage Required Services

Fort McClellan Post

Cemetery

540 Goode Road

Anniston, AL 36201

1.7 +/- acres developed

Grounds Maintenance

Services

V. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS & SPECIFICATIONS

a. SERVICES PROVIDED

The National Cemetery Administration (NCA), Fort McClellan Post Cemetery has an immediate need for

Grounds and Facilities Maintenance. The contractor shall provide all supervision, personnel, equipment, tools, and other items and/or services necessary to ensure that grounds maintenance is performed at the

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

b. DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES

Contractor shall understand and meet all current applicable NCA Operational Standards and Measures

(Attachment A). Minor changes to standards and measures shall be at no cost to the government (i.e., timeline to perform tasks).

The Period of Performance for this project shall consist of a Base Period of twelve (12) months and four

(4), one (1) year, Option Periods (if exercised).

Services include, but are not limited to, maintenance of grounds (regular mowing – both turf and non-turf areas, trimming of all vertical surfaces, edge trimming of roadways, planting beds, irrigation control boxes, removal of leaves, pinecones, pine needles, nuts, branches, trash and other debris, core aerification/dethatching, sunken grave repair, grounds and turf repair, ), maintenance of headstones

(cleaning and pressure washing, raise and realign, fine tune alignment), maintenance of turf (soil test, chemical applications/treatments to include fertilizer and lime), maintenance of plants and trees, extreme weather event support (storm debris clean-up), maintenance of mulch/planting beds (upkeep of mulch, removal of weeds, chemical applications/treatments), maintenance of irrigation system, Support

Services (special event support services, sweeping and/or blowing off of cemetery roadways and sidewalks, trash removal, removal of floral arrangements as required from graves), Interment Activity

Support (Gravesite Excavation, transport of casketed remains).

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 Contracting Officer in conjunction with the National Cemetery Administration, Alabama National Cemetery Complex Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).

Contractor shall coordinate work in advance with COR to minimize the impact to cemetery operations.

COR shall be notified in writing of all completed work by COB or no later than 10:00am the next business day.

No later than thirty (30) days after award, Contractor shall provide a projected work schedule that encompasses the entirety of year. Projected work schedules shall also be provided no later than thirty

(30) days prior to the start date of option years, if exercised.

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

5b DESCRIPTION / SPECIFICATIONS / WORK STATEMENT

5b.1

HEADSTONE TRANSPORTATION, SETTING AND

MAINTENANCE

5b.1.1 Headstone Setting

5b.1.2 Headstone Raise and Realign

5b.1.3 Headstone Fine Tune Alignment (Bump and Run)

5b.2 GRAVESITE MAINTENANCE

5b.2.1 Sunken Grave, Grounds, and Turf Repair to include sod installation

5b.2.2 Weekly Gravesite Floral and Decoration, Pick-up and Removal

5b.3 GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

5b.3.1 Irrigation System Operation and Monitoring

5b.3.2 Irrigation System Inspection, Maintenance and Repair

5b.3.3 Mowing (Tifway 419 Bermuda)

5b.3.4 Turf Edging

5b.3.5 Mowing Non-turf area

5b.3.6 Trimming of Headstones, Markers, Monuments and Other Vertical Surfaces

5b.3.7 Leaf, Trash and Debris Removal

5b.3.8 Extreme Weather Event Damage and Debris Clean-up

5b.3.9 Sweeping/Blowing Off Roadways and Walkways

5b.4 PLANT MATERIAL AND TREE MAINTENANCE

5b.4.1 Maintenance of Plant Beds, Shrubs, and Bushes

5b.4.3

Install and Replenish Mulch to include all planting beds, tree rings, bushes, shrubs, and other designated areas as defined in the SOW

5b.5 TURF MAINTENANCE

5b.5.1 Sod Installation on subsequent interment gravesites

5b.5.1 Core Aerification (Aeration)

5b.5.2 Dethatching

5b.5.3 Fertilization

5b.5.4 Weed Control: Herbicide Treatments/Applications

5b.5.4 Weed Control: Pre-Emergent

5b.5.4 Weed Control: Post-Emergent

5b.5.4 Weed Control: Planting Beds / Tree rings / All Mulched areas / All Gravel –

Rocked Areas

5b.5.6 Gypsum Application (as indicated by soil test)

5b.6 PEST CONTROL

5b.6.1 Insecticide, Treatment/Application

5b.6.2 Fungicide Treatment / Application

5b.7

FACILITIES MAINTENANCE: CLEANING, PRESSURE WASHING

and PAINTING

5b.7.1 Cleaning and Pressure Washing of Headstones, Markers, and Monuments

5b.7.2

Cleaning and Pressure Washing of Entrance Ways/Arches, Retaining Walls, Caps, Walkways, Flag Assembly Area, Curbs, Areas under signs and

Trash/Floral Receptacles and Trash/Floral Receptacles

5b.7.4 Painting of Signage, Entry Arches, Retaining Wall, Fence

5b.8 SUPPORT SERVICES / SPECIAL EVENT SUPPORT

5b.8.1 Event Set-up and Tear Down

5b.8.2 Committal Service setup & tear down

5b.9 INTERMENT ACTIVITY SUPPORT

5b.9.1 Gravesite Excavation and Backfilling

5b.9.2 Transport of Casketed Remains and Floral Arrangements to Gravesite

5B HEADSTONE RECEIVING, PREPARATION, TRANSPORTATION, SETTING and

MAINTENANCE

5b.1.1 Headstone Installation and Setting, All Subsequent (R2) Interments and Replacement Headstones

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

SCOPE OF WORK

Work completed under this section is subject to The Davis Bacon Act. Work consists of setting new headstones on gravesites.

The Cemetery is closed to first (new) interments. Upon receipt of headstones, COR shall coordinate with the contractor for the delivery and setting. The COR, or designee, shall transport the headstone from

Alabama National Cemetery to Fort McClellan Post Cemetery and deliver the headstone to the contractor. Headstones shall be set the same day they are delivered.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Upright white marble headstones are to be used at the Fort McClellan Post Cemetery as determined through direction of the National Cemetery Administration, Central Office (in accordance with the general plan of the cemetery).

Headstones shall be installed as soon as possible, but no later than ten (10) calendar days after receipt at the Alabama National Cemetery Complex, as per NCA Operational Standards and Measures.

Standard upright marble headstones are, approximately, 42 inches long, 13 inches wide, 4 inches thick, and 230 pounds in weight. Headstones shall be lifted, transported, and set by at least two (2) people, unless special one-person devices are approved in writing by the COR.

The cost to replace any headstone damaged due to the Contractor's handling or negligence, shall be at

Contractor’s expense.

HEADSTONE INSTALLATION / SETTING

Work completed under this section is subject to The Davis Bacon Act.

Headstones shall be properly set on the centerline of the grave, twelve (12) inches in from the head of the grave, with the inscription facing the grave. Headstones shall be set vertically plumb on all sides and aligned vertically, laterally, transversely, and diagonally with headstones of other graves using a top string, a back of headstone string line, and a side of headstone string line. Maximum vertical, lateral, and transverse tolerance of any headstone off the alignment string lines and/or marks shall be 1/8”, or less.

For all active interment sections, all measurements and string line set-ups/row layouts shall be taken from existing section keystones.

All upright headstones shall be set at a cemetery recommended height of 25.5 inches from the finished grave (soil surface) to the top of the arc. Minor deviations 24-26” in height may be permissible to provide a uniform appearance in the top line (“pleasing topline”) or to compensate for slight ground rises or depression within an interment section. Where a considerable number of adjacent stones are reset in a section, and ground conditions are known to require an allowance for vertical settlement, an extra inch above cemetery recommended height may be permissible in the above ground projection when the stone is initially set.

***Note: Metal tape measures and digital levels are the only approved devices to assess headstone measurements.

In irregular terrain where sloping and uneven ground conditions exist, all headstones and markers shall be set at proper heights and levels to provide a flowing transition or pleasing topline through uneven terrain unless otherwise specified by the COR. Headstones shall be anchored firmly in place, so they are rigid with no give or play.

If there are cases where headstone sockets need to be dug, the headstone sockets (holes) to receive headstones shall be dug by hand and/or mechanical devices to a sufficient depth so that a recommended 25.5 inches of the headstone extends from the soil surface level to the top of the arc of the headstone. As previously stated, minor deviations (24-26 inches in height) may be permissible to provide a uniform appearance in the top line or to compensate for slight ground rises or depression within an interment section.

Contractor shall not dig a headstone socket wider than twelve (12) inches, twenty (20) inches in length, or exceed a depth of 24 inches that may cause the headstone to settle below height requirement unless approved by the Contracting Officer Representative (COR).

The alignment of the headstones should be checked frequently during the installation/setting process because the tamping may move the headstone out of plumb or alignment. Upright headstones in a section shall be firmly set and anchored in place with no movement from forces subjected by the COR as applied when inspecting installed/set headstones for quality.

Headstones are to be set in the following manner:

On pre-placed crypts, sockets for headstones are to be dug down to the crypt lid, then, to achieve the correct headstone height, contractor supplied stone dust or crushed aggregate

(stone) material (graded aggregate sizes ranging from crushed powder fines up to 1/8 inches maximum) is to be added and tamped to full compaction in the bottom of each socket.

The proper depth needed for the headstone to set on and extend a recommended 25.5 inches of the from the surface soil level to the top of the arc of the headstone. As previously stated, minor deviations 24-26 inches in height may be permissible to provide a uniform appearance in the top line or to compensate for slight ground rises or depression within an interment section.

After each headstone is placed into its socket and its correct height confirmed. native soil or clay is to be placed around all sides of the headstone and heavily tamped to full compaction at each three (3) inch vertical interval, leaving the last 4 inches at the top to have tamped topsoil and sod applied. During this process it is critical that proper plumb, alignment, and height be frequently checked, corrected for, and ultimately achieved, with each headstone rigidly set.)

If a headstone is to be installed where there is no pre-placed crypt, the contractor shall utilize the pre-placed headstone containment box otherwise known as the “beam system.” The depth of the socket shall be dug in the soil to a depth appropriate to reach the headstone containment box.

A minimum of 3 inches of stone dust or crushed aggregate material supplied by the contractor (graded aggregate sizes ranging from crushed powder fines up to 1/8 inches maximum) is to be heavily tamped to full compaction in the bottom of the socket to provide a footing for the headstone to set on, and to the proper depth so that recommended 25.5 inches of the headstone extends from the surface soil level to the top of the arc of the headstone.

Again, minor deviations 24-26 inches in height may be permissible to provide a uniform appearance in the top line or to compensate for slight ground rises or depression within an interment section. After the headstone is placed into the socket and its correct height confirmed, native soil or clay is to be placed around all sides of the headstone and heavily tamped to full compaction at each three (3) inch vertical interval, leaving the last 4 inches at the top to have tamped topsoil and sod applied.

During this process it is critical that proper plumb, alignment, and height be frequently checked, corrected for, and ultimately achieved, with each headstone rigidly set.

Any headstones broken or damaged by the Contractor shall be reported to the COR by close of business each working day to ensure proper marking of the gravesite. The Contractor shall be responsible for the cost of the headstone replacement. All headstone replacements must be coordinated with the COR.

Any grid or sectional monuments disturbed, displaced, or broken by the Contractor shall be replaced by the Contractor at their expense. All grid or sectional monuments disturbed, etc., must be properly reset by a licensed land surveyor at Contractor’s expense.

Curbs, roads, concrete surfaces, turf, trees, utilities, etc. existing above and below the ground that are damaged or disturbed by the contractor during performance of contract work shall be repaired at the expense of the contractor. Repairs to the above shall be corrected by the Contractor within fourteen

(14) workdays, unless otherwise agreed to with the COR.

Headstones shall be moved by using wooden, and or metal headstone lifting device. If metal lifting devices are used, the area that contacts the headstone must be protected with a rigid fabric that will prevent damage to, and marking of, the headstone. The Contractor shall use care not to scratch or damage headstones in any manner. Contractor is responsible for all damages to turf and/or headstones caused during performance of this work.

Adjustment (raising, lowering, or otherwise realigning) of newly set headstones due to initial settling, improper compaction or contractor error shall be the responsibility of the Contractor, and shall be at the

Contractor’s expense. If there is a problem with realigning a specific marker, a report shall be sent to the

COR providing a detailed explanation of the reasons the marker was not realigned.

All headstones set by the Contractor shall maintain the proper height and alignment for a period of 365 days from date of installation and verified compliance by the COR; any adjustment, raise, lower or realignment of headstones during this warranty period shall be at the Contractor’s expense.

All headstones set by the Contractor shall be assessed for compliance with standards and measures within two business days of being set. Adjustment, raising, lowering and/or realigning newly set headstones due to initial settling, improper compaction or Contractor error shall not constitute

Headstone Raise, Lower, Realign, Reset, and Backfill as described in the Price/Cost Schedule and shall be at the Contractor’s expense.

Ongoing compliance with standards and measures shall be assessed by the COR through random quality control checks and Cemetery Leadership through the completion of the semi-annual gravesite assessment report (GAR).

EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

Contractor shall be responsible for providing all transportation equipment, headstone removal devices

(devices must be capable of pulling approximately 250lbs), supervision, labor, supplies, materials, and applicable personal protective equipment (PPE) required to complete the scope of work as outlined above.

Turf tires are required for all vehicles traveling on cemetery turf.

5b.1.2 Headstone Raise and Realign

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

SCOPE OF WORK

Work completed under this section is subject to The Davis Bacon Act. The COR or Cemetery Leadership will identify the headstone(s) which are required to be Raised & Re-aligned. Headstones must not be removed from the gravesite. In the event the headstone marker is required to be removed from the socket, the headstone shall be placed on the ground horizontally, and propped up at the top and bottom ensuring no damage to turf around gravesite. Stone Dust, crushed aggregate (stone) or other approved material shall be used in Raise & Realign projects. Any headstone that is Raised & Re-aligned must utilize a top and back string to ensure headstones maintain the appropriate National Cemetery standards and measures.

Upon award, the COR shall provide Gravesite Layout Plan and conduct a walk through with the

Contractor Site Supervisor to address current condition of upright marble headstones prior to initiating headstone work.

The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to provide headstone raise and realignment services.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Upright headstones for individual graves shall be erected on the centerline twelve (12) inches in from the head of the grave with the inscription facing the grave. They shall be set plumb and aligned laterally, transversely, and diagonally with the headstones on other graves with-in the designated section.

All upright headstones shall be set and maintained at a cemetery recommended height of 25.5 inches from the finished grave (soil surface) to the top of the arc. Any headstone that is raised or realigned must utilize a top and back string to ensure headstones maintain the appropriate National Cemetery standards and measures.

Minor deviations in height, 24 to 26 inches, are permissible to provide a uniform appearance in the top line to compensate for slight ground rises or depressions within a burial section. Where a considerable number of adjacent stones are set, or reset, in a section, and ground conditions are known to require an allowance for vertical settlement, an extra inch above the cemetery recommended height may be permissible in the above ground projection when the stone is initially set.

Minor realignment, consisting merely of straightening the headstone, is called fine tuning, or bump and run, and may be accomplished by one person by hand or with a wooden tamping/pry stick, but is usually more efficient with one or two others to sight along headstone rows and columns to guide the adjustment.

If a headstone needs to be removed from its socket to adjust its height, it shall not be removed from the gravesite and shall not be left unattended. In the event the headstone is required to be removed from the socket, the headstone shall be placed on the ground horizontally, and propped up at the top and bottom ensuring no damage to turf around gravesite. It shall be removed only briefly so an adequate amount of stone dust/crushed aggregate can be added to and compacted, or removed from, the bottom of the socket for proper height adjustment, then the headstone shall be replaced. No more than one headstone shall be removed from its socket at one time in a section.

The contractor is responsible to protect headstones from damage or being discolored from contact with dirt, soil or other contaminants during realignment or other maintenance operations. Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds, or equipment due to contractor error and/or negligence shall be the responsibility of the Contractor and shall be repaired/replaced at Contractor’s expense.

**IMPORTANT NOTE: HEADSTONES SHALL NOT BE REMOVED FROM THEIR

RESPECTIVE GRAVESITES.

5b.1.3 Headstone Fine Tune Alignment (Bump and Run)

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

SCOPE OF WORK

Work shall consist of adjusting alignment of headstones already in place that have shifted out of vertical or horizontal alignment. Fine tuning of headstone alignment, or “Bump and run,” shall be ongoing to keep stones plumb and aligned.

Upon award, the COR shall provide Gravesite Layout Plan and conduct a walk through with the

Contractor Site Supervisor to address current condition of upright marble headstones prior to initiating headstone work.

The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to provide headstone fine tune alignment services.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Upright headstones for individual graves shall be erected on the centerline twelve (12) inches in from the head of the grave with the inscription facing the grave. They shall be set plumb and aligned laterally, transversely, and diagonally with the headstones on other graves.

Minor realignment, consisting merely of straightening the headstone, is called fine tuning, or bump and run, and may be accomplished by one person by hand or with a wooden tamping/pry stick, but is usually more efficient with one or two others to sight along headstone rows and columns to guide the adjustment.

The contractor is responsible to protect headstones from damage or being discolored from contact with dirt, soil or other contaminants during realignment or other maintenance operations. Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds or equipment due to contractor error and/or negligence shall be the responsibility of the Contractor and shall be repaired/replaced at Contractor’s expense.

***IMPORTANT NOTE: HEADSTONES SHALL NOT BE REMOVED FROM THEIR

RESPECTIVE GRAVESITES.

No gravel placed up the sides of the socket. Only native soil or clay.

5b.2 GRAVESITE MAINTENANCE

5b.2.1 Sunken Grave, Grounds and Turf Repair to include sod (Tifway 419 Bermuda) installation

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

SCOPE OF WORK

Work consists of filling, compacting, and leveling sunken grave sites, holes, and/or washouts with suitable material (soil) to match existing adjacent grades and reestablishing the turfgrass. The cemetery shall be checked for deviations of grade, which when identified, must be repaired immediately. Sites must be visually appealing with no gaps or exposed soil between turf sections and level with adjacent sites.

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

Turf grass Species 419 Bermuda Sod

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Damage to the grounds occurs due to excessive rainfall, pests, fungus, or poor landscape and horticulture practices and can be the cause of injury to visitors and personnel. The cemetery shall be checked for p sunken grave sites, holes, and/or washouts and, when found, shall be filled as soon as possible but no later than 72 hours after discovery.

Prior to any Sunken grave, Grounds, and Turf repair work commencing, Contractor shall provide square footage of area(s) to be sodded to COR. CLIN shall be invoiced by the square foot.

**Damage to grounds caused by Contractor negligence shall be repaired by the Contractor at no cost to the Government.

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

• A sunken grave is defined as any gravesite that has receded one (1) inch from the existing adjacent grade. Standard graves excavated and backfilled are approximately three and a half feet wide (42”) and approximately eight feet long (96”) in standard pre-placed crypt areas

(does not apply to this cemetery). In an oversize vaulted area, and traditional (private vaults) area, the excavated and backfilled gravesites are approximately four feet (48”) in width by ten feet (120”) in length.

• Partially sunken graves may occur after weather events that include excessive rainfall. They can appear as a small to medium depression or hole, outlining the grave or headstone setting. This type of grade issue can cause injury to visitors and staff and must be repaired as soon as possible, but not later than 30 days after notification by the COR.

• Small holes caused by pests or other means shall be secured with safety barriers, cones, or otherwise covered immediately after discovery due to the danger they pose to personnel visiting or working on the grounds. Repaired holes shall be filled, and hand tamped no later than 24 hours after discovery. The area shall then be sodded, following procedures as indicated below.

• Washouts occur from excessive rain or overuse of irrigation which erodes the topsoil and causes damage to the turf. Washouts shall have damaged turf removed, following procedures as indicated below, be brought to grade, adding suitable fill as necessary, and resodded, following procedures as indicated below.

• Turf repair shall be at the discretion of the COR. Areas identified as needing turf repair shall be discussed with the District Agronomist prior to any work commencing.

All Contractor identified areas requiring repair shall be reported to the COR the day they are identified.

Once identified, all area requiring repair must be secured with safety barriers, cones, or otherwise covered

/ cordoned off (marked with red marker flags) until repairs can be completed to prevent injury to visitors and personnel.

Red marker flags shall be placed in such a way as to effectively “box” the area needing repair. Each flag will indicate date of placement. Marker flags shall remain in place until repaired area has established healthy sod.

All sunken grave, grounds or turf repairs shall be accomplished as soon as possible, but no later than 30 days after identification, unless otherwise noted.

**NOTE: If repairs are not completed once identified due to weather conditions, extensive cemetery operations, and/or cemetery events, gatherings, or meetings, the Contractor shall provide a traffic cone/safety marking device to ensure no injuries or accidents are sustained by cemetery staff, contractors, or customers prior to repair being completed. **

Sod Installation (419 Bermuda)

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

SCOPE OF WORK

Work consists of sod bed preparation and sodding of areas of the cemetery where the turf has been disturbed or has died. The cemetery consists of 1 +/- acres of sodded ground.

Prior to any Sunken grave, Grounds, and Turf repair work commencing, Contractor shall provide square footage of area(s) to be sodded to COR. CLIN shall be invoiced by the square foot.

Healthy turf shall be reestablished with in sixty (60) days during the growing season (which is March through November).

Turf type- Sod only:

Type Required % Purity

419 Bermuda 98%-99%

Sod shall be square in shape and no less than 12 inches. Replaced sod borders shall be uniform in appearance. All borders of sod squares/sections shall be married, and hand tamped in such a manner as to prevent gaps, trip hazards, and encourage proper regrowth.

The Contractor shall be responsible for the removal and disposal of dead turf and shall refill the site with quality topsoil and perform the sodding to include the bare areas to ensure quality turf. The contractor shall be responsible for purchase, transportation, care, and storage of all sod that is required for gravesites and bare areas throughout the cemetery.

Delivery tickets, indicating date, weight, analysis, purity, and vendor’s name to be submitted to the COR prior to installation.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Only the cultivars of 419 Bermuda sod that have been adapted in the State of Alabama 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, and Southeast District Agronomist in writing. Sod shall be free of all noxious weeds.

No substitution of sod type, weight, or application without the specific requested to do so and is approved in writing by, the Contacting Officer Representative and Southeast District Agronomist. Sod is to be free of all noxious weeds, insects, and disease. 419 Bermuda is the turf that shall be used at cemetery.

The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing and watering all sodded areas and maintaining them in a healthy and vigorous condition in accordance with the Cemetery Grounds Maintenance Plan. Newly placed sod shall not be mowed until fully established.

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

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

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

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

All repaired areas shall be sodded within thirty (30) days of repair.

Healthy turf shall be re-established within sixty (60) days during the growing season. The Contractor shall, at his/her own expense, replace any sod which has died or been damaged during the establishment period.

NOTE: Newly placed sod shall not be mowed until fully established or until leaf blades are one (1) inch above the recommended mowing height.

PROCEDURE

All areas requiring repair shall have sod removed, with a sod cutter or spade, and be filled with appropriate backfill and be tamped to within two (2) inches of established grade. Area shall be tamped level after filling.

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

The contractor shall be responsible for purchase, transportation, care, and storage of all sod that is required for gravesites and bare areas throughout the cemetery. Delivery tickets, indicating date, weight, analysis, purity of sod, and vendor’s name shall be submitted to the COR upon request.

Sod shall be square in shape and no less than 12 inches. Replaced sod borders shall be uniform in appearance. All borders of sod squares/sections shall be married, and hand tamped in such a manner as to prevent gaps, trip hazards, and encourage proper regrowth. Sod shall then be replaced as specified to bring the gravesite to established grade. All edges of sod/turf on shall be brought together, edges married together and tamped.

Healthy turf must be reestablished within sixty (60) days of repair.

**NOTE: COR(s) shall inspect sunken grave, grounds, and turf repair, to ensure it meets the

National Cemetery Administration standards and measures.

GUARANTEE

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

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

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

5b.2.2 Weekly Floral, Decoration, Pick-up/Removal and Disposal

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

SCOPE OF WORK

Work consists of weekly collection and removal of dead or unsightly floral arrangements and unauthorized gravesite adornments/decorations from the interment sections, in accordance with the floral regulations of the cemetery.

The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to provide weekly floral and unauthorized decoration pick-up, removal, and disposal.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

All artificial floral arrangement, flags, and/or decorations collected and removed from gravesites, shall be clearly labeled with a section and gravesite number, and retained by the Contractor for a minimum of thirty (30) days after removal. Cemetery provided floral vases will be returned to the floral vase receptacle.

The COR shall be responsible for designating an artificial floral/gravesite decoration retention area on the

Cemetery Grounds that enables the Contractor and/or cemetery staff to assist inquiring families in retrieving recently removed/relocated arrangements/decorations. The retention bin shall be emptied no later than the 10th of each month.

The Contractor shall provide all the necessary labor, equipment, and transportation necessary for the collection, removal, and disposal of all “unsightly floral arrangements”, artificial floral arrangements and unauthorized gravesite adornments/decorations.

For clarity, “unsightly floral arrangements” refers to artificial floral arrangements that are severely faded, ripped, torn, or strewn about the cemetery in such a manner that their designated location cannot be readily identified and/or floral arrangements that have died or withered and detract from the beauty and dignity of the cemetery.

Unauthorized gravesite adornments/decorations include flat-bottomed vases, balloons, solar lights, glass of any kind, pinwheels, unsecured items left on the gravesite, and decorations that are secured to the headstone or stand higher than the top of the headstone. A complete list of unauthorized gravesite adornment/decorations shall be provided by the COR upon Contractor arrival onsite.

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

5b.3 IRRIGATION SYSTEM OPERATION, MONITORING, INSEPCTION

AND MAINTENANCE

5b.3.1 Irrigation System Operation, Inspection and Monitoring

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

SCOPE OF WORK

Work consists of the yearly startup, weekly operation, monthly monitoring & inspection, and yearly shutdown (winterization, if required) of the irrigation system and corresponding system components. This includes, but is not limited to, the backflow preventer (Watts LF909M1-QT 2), control box (Rainbird

ESP-me), valves, lines, wiring, pipes, and sprinkler heads.

The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, equipment, materials, transportation, and supplies necessary to provide irrigation system operation and monitoring.

Cemetery shall provide all irrigation parts.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

The work specified herein shall be provided to facilitate the successful and ongoing operation of a manually set, automatically controlled underground landscape irrigation system.

This contract shall cover yearly start-up/shut-down, weekly operation, monthly monitoring and inspection, troubleshooting, and repair service, which includes emergency callback service, and preventative maintenance of the irrigation system and corresponding system components.

This includes, but is not limited to, the backflow preventer, pump, control box, valves, lines, wiring, pipes, and sprinkler heads and provide reports to COR no later than the 5th of each month.

The contractor shall be required to perform the following:

Perform all system inspection and maintenance tasks for the irrigation system and system components at minimum 1x monthly.

Check program schedules for proper operation and adjust if necessary. Verify all field controllers have back-up programs, adjust programs as necessary to allow for changing site conditions, seasonal changes, and cemetery staff needs. Perform annual preventive maintenance inspection/service to the RPV backflow valve to meet manufacturer's recommendations.

WORK NOT INCLUDED:

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

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

5b.3.2 Irrigation System, Inspection, Maintenance and Repair

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

SCOPE OF WORK

Work consists of operation, inspection, maintenance, and minor repair of the installed irrigation system.

The Cemetery has approximately .5+/_ acres of irrigated turf. The Contractor shall assume responsibility for the irrigation system “as is”; as irrigation system is operational and fully functional as per manufacturer specifications.

The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, equipment, materials, transportation, and supplies necessary to provide irrigation system maintenance.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:

DESCRIPTION

The work specified herein shall be provided to facilitate the successful and ongoing operation of a manually set, automatically controlled underground landscape irrigation system, including system controllers and control devices, control valves, sprinkler heads, solenoids, accessible field wiring, and startup in the spring and shutdown in the fall.

OPERATION, INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE

This contract includes irrigation system startup in spring, weekly operation during growing season, monthly inspections, minor maintenance as needed/required, and shutdown/winterization in the fall, if required. It also includes regular diagnostic and repair service, including, but not limited to, emergency callback service, periodic inspections, to include removing cobwebs, dust, dirt and debris from pump housing cover, and preventative maintenance of all system components, to include, but not limited to, controllers, control devices, valves, pump and sprinkler heads.

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:

• The Contractor shall provide a monthly examination of the irrigation system by walking the site and performing a thorough inspection of grounds and irrigation components.

• The Contractor shall provide detailed monthly report outlining the status of ongoing, completed, and upcoming preventative maintenance tasks and repairs.

o The Government may request copies of receipts, and/or expenditures to verify ongoing maintenance is being completed in a timely and efficient manner.

o Contractor shall observe the sprinkler for 2 full rotations in all zones. Ensure all irrigation heads are watering with a 40-foot overlap. Irrigation patterns shall be indicated on the monthly report.

o When necessary, adjust spray devices to assure proper spray pattern and radius of water pattern. Adjustments shall be indicated on the monthly report.

o Monthly report shall indicate areas of irrigation deficiencies.

i. Areas of irrigation deficiencies shall be marked with green marker flags, identified with date of placement to assist with monitoring and further troubleshooting.

ii. In the event of, or in areas with, known irrigation deficiencies, the

Contractor shall manually operate the system by opening and closing the valves within the irrigation boxes located throughout the cemetery to ensure the cemetery grounds remain well irrigated.

o In accordance with inspection notes, physically inspect all field controllers, including visible wiring in controller cabinet.

o Adjust controller programs to reflect site specific requirement, seasonal changes, and cemetery staff needs. Adjustments shall be indicated on monthly report.

o The Contractor shall provide a detailed weekly report indicating:

i. Program status to include:

1. Days of the week the system will run

2. System Start Times

3. Minutes per Zone

ii. Changes from Previous week (if any)

iii. Recommendations for future weeks (changes to be made)

• During each inspection, the Contractor shall prepare a detailed list of all trouble spots and problem issues (i.e standing water, broken heads, pipes, valves, valve boxes to include lids, etc.) that are visibly identifiable.

o All problem areas shall be marked with a blue marker flag until issues have been resolved.

o Additionally, review system operation with on-site operators to determine and record additional issues experienced during daily operation that may not be readily observable.

• Visually inspect controller grounding grid for good mechanical connection.

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

• When necessary, repair or replace any broken or malfunctioning system components to include, but not limited to, spray heads, valve boxes/lids, valves, solenoids. COR Shall be notified within 5 days of required repairs.

o All Irrigation parts shall be furnished by the government. Contractor shall coordinate replacement parts with COR.

o Repairs shall be provided by the contractor.

o When replacing malfunctioning spray devices ensure the inserted spray nozzle corresponds to the correct spray pattern.

o Coordination, in writing, shall be made with the COR prior to any work commencing. Contractor shall indicate:

i. Part(s) needing replacement.

ii. Location of repair to be made (i.e., Zone, etc.)

• If installed, verify that all flow sensors are operating properly. Recalibrate as required to meet manufacturer’s recommendations.

• If installed, verify that all system master valves are operating properly. Perform preventive maintenance service to valves to meet manufacturer’s recommendations.

• At least once annually, clean all filtering devices on irrigation system, including, but not limited to, mainline filters, drip line filter, and spray head filter devices to ensure proper operation of components.

o Replace filters as necessary.

o Provide report to COR indicating which filtering devices have had filters replaced, to include date of replacement.

• At least once annually, test all controller grounding for proper resistance according to equipment manufacturers recommendations.

o Provide written report detailing grounding resistance for each controller, highlighting deficient ground locations, and notifying the site manager of required action.

• Provide annual Spring Start-Up and Fall shut down for the entire irrigation system.

• Ensure irrigation heads and valve boxes are ground / grade level and do not present a safety concern/trip hazard. The Contractor shall raise or lower irrigation heads as necessary.

Contractor shall coordinate valve box raise/lower with COR prior to work commencing.

• Repair and replace any irrigation leaks/irrigation breaks in all irrigation pipes with a diameter of 6-inches or below.

o Coordination with the COR must be made prior to work commencing. Identified leaks must be marked with a blue marker flag, indicating date of identification, and flag shall remain in place until repair(s) are complete.

• Reporting: Report(s) are due to the COR by the 5th of each month.

• Emergency Call Back: When notified by the COR of a need for Emergency Repair of leaks, Contractor shall:

o Duty Day(s) During Duty Hours – Respond within 8 hours of notification.

o Non-Duty – After hours, Weekends, etc.: Respond within 6 hours of notification.

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

WORK NOT INCLUDED

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.

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.

The COR may request contractor to make irrigation repairs as listed or identified. These repairs shall be separate from system maintenance and inspection.

5b.3.3 Mowing Turf area

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

GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

SCOPE OF WORK

Work consists of mowing all sodded areas within the cemetery and the perimeter tree line and walls.

GENERAL REQUIRMENTS

Height of cut (H.O.C) shall be maintained at 1 to 2 inches or as directed by the COR. Cutting height shall be established as required in the Grounds Maintenance Plan, with approval from the District

Agronomist.

Cutting Height, Inches Turf grass Species

2” 419 Bermuda

All mowing of turfed areas shall be done a minimum of once a week during the growing season, (Typically March through November) or as directed by the COR. The growing season may require mowing twice weekly due to weather conditions to keep the turf from growing more than One half (1/2) inch above the maximum recommended height of 2” (two) inches for Tifway 419 Bermuda. During dormant periods, mowing shall be done as necessary to maintain National Cemetery Standards.

Mowing shall be performed often enough so that no more than 1/3 of leafage is removed at any single mowing. Advanced Written Notice and COR Approval is required prior to mowing more than once a week.

A. Riding mowers may be used if they are not operated within two (2) inches of headstones, markers, monuments, tree trunks or other vertical surfaces.

B. Commercial grade power trimmers and power edgers will be used to trim…