Attachments to PWS Kerrville Grounds Maintenance.docx

SECTION D - CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, OR ATTACHMENTS

Attachments A through O

ATTACHMENT (I) GROUNDS MAINTENANCE MAP

ATTACHMENT (A)

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

SECTION 1

Headstone Maintenance & Cleaning

SECTION 2

Headstone Fine Tune Alignment

SECTION 3

Turf Maintenance: Fertilization, Pest Control, Aeration, and Dethatching

SECTION 4

Lawn Maintenance: Sodding and Seeding

SECTION 5

Lawn Maintenance: Mowing, Trimming, & Edging

SECTION 6

Leaf Collection

SECTION 7

Plant Material Maintenance

SECTION 8

Irrigation Maintenance and Operations

SECTION 9

Trash and Debris Removal

SECTION 10

Floral Removal

SECTION 1

HEADSTONE MAINTENANCE & CLEANING

1.1 GENERAL

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

1.2 SCOPE

NCA Standard: All upright headstones (hereafter referred to as “headstones”) shall be clean, free of debris and objectionable accumulations. The headstones located within the Cemetery are currently MARBLE.

Work consists of cleaning all headstones as specified by the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) to remove objectionable material and discoloration, such as environmental deposits, accumulations of bird droppings or dirt/mud, tire and hose markings, grass stains, residue from trees, mold, mildew, moss, algae, lichen, fungus, and so forth.

1.3 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

1.3.1 All headstones shall be cleaned prior to Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day and any other time as determined by the COR, with a washing of two (2) times per year minimal. The Contractor shall pressure wash entrance gate of the Cemetery. The natural surfaces shall be retained. They shall not be painted, white washed, or calcimined. Any headstones that have any dirt splash up or grass debris from mowing/trimming shall be promptly cleaned when found.

1.3.2 All equipment and supplies maintained and operated by the Contractor shall be consistent and fully compliant with all applicable Federal, State, and County laws, ordinances and regulations and meet State inspection, safety, licensing, registration, and insurance requirements.

1.4 PROCEDURE

1.4.1 Cleaning techniques shall demonstrate a clear understanding of, and the sensitivity to, such environmental issues as ground water contamination, wetlands, etc., and shall be consistent and fully compliant with all applicable Federal, State, and County laws, ordinances and regulations.

1.4.2 Clean water shall be used to clean headstones. Cleaning techniques with water shall include high pressure spraying, scrubbing and/or rinsing.

1.4.3 When water under pressure is used, the pressure shall not exceed 500 psi. Excessive soil, staining and/or discoloration may be removed with plain water and a stiff brush (no wire brushes, bleach, solvents, or abrasive cleaners/blasting shall be permitted), followed by rinsing with clear water.

1.4.4 The toning or patina of the stone will not be removed unless as a result of cleaning accomplished to remove the accumulations previously noted. In this instance the stone should be cleaned in its entirety so as to present a uniform appearance.

1.4.5 If water used in cleaning should soften the soil around the base of the headstone so that the headstone is loosened, care shall be taken not to tip the headstone out of plumb or alignment. Headstones shall be set and anchored firmly in place with no movement from forces subjected by the COR or inspector after cleaning has been completed.

1.4.6 In turfgrass areas, care shall be taken to protect the turf area from any damage. Any turf damaged by the Contractor shall be restored at Contractor's cost in accordance with “LAWN MAINTENANCE: SODDING/SEEDING.”

SECTION 2

HEADSTONE FINE TUNE ALIGNMENT

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1.

2.

2.1 WORK OVERVIEW

The result of the Contractor’s performance must meet or exceed the requirements of this section. This section outlines upright headstone aligning, backfilling, and compacting. The Contractor shall provide all supervision, professional advice/guidance, labor, parts, materials, equipment, and personnel to provide the services defined herein. Work consists of resetting or realigning those already in place that have shifted out of vertical or horizontal alignment. It includes reporting physical defects to the Contracting Officer or his authorized representative.

2.2 RECORD KEEPING AND REPORTING

The Contractor’s Superintendent or his designee shall provide the COR with daily written reports accurately identifying all headstones set and replaced listed by deceased names and headstone numbers for each gravesite location.

2.3 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

2.3.1 Standard upright headstones are approximately 42 inches long, 13 inches wide, and 4 inches thick and weigh approximately 220 pounds. Headstones may vary in size and weight depending on their age with regard to the production date.

2.3.2 All temporary markers, floral, commemorative, or other type of decorations (arrangements) causing interference with the fine tune alignment of headstones shall be carefully, and in an orderly manner, moved during the installation and moved back to all gravesites upon completion by the Contractor. Prior to removal, the Contractor shall verify the numbering sequence and location of the headstone and associated decorations or vases.

2.3.3 Prior to starting work in each new initial burial section, coordinate the correct permanent gravesite control markers and the required gravesite row/gravesite spacing layout dimensions with the COR.

2.3.4 Trees or shrubs obstructing headstones shall be noted and the Contractor shall notify the COR for determination of remedial action or modification for installation.

2.3.5 The Contractor shall restore all damage caused during performance of this work. Repairs shall be completed by the Contractor within fourteen (14) workdays, unless otherwise agreed to with the COR.

2.3.6 Any headstones broken or damaged by the Contractor shall be reported to the COR by close of business each working day in order that the grave can be properly marked. The Contractor shall be responsible for the cost of the headstone replacement. All headstone replacements must be coordinated with the COR.

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

2.3.8 Curbs, roads, walks, 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.

2.4 PROCEDURE

2.4.1 Specific headstones in each burial section shall be chosen and designated to be “Key” stones (keystones) for use throughout the fine tune alignment process. See Exhibit A. All keystones are to be vertically plumbed and aligned by leveling the front, back, and sides while raising or lowering the headstone as necessary to achieve a height of 25 inches above the mean (average) topsoil level. These keystones are headstones that are visibly in line with the majority of the rest of the headstones in both the rows and the columns and are as close as possible to the proper measurements for that particular section of headstones. Keystones shall be at a maximum spacing of every 10th headstone or at a more frequent spacing as required in areas of sloped or rolling terrain in order to achieve a flowing transition between the rows and columns.

2.4.2 Install heavy string lines along the front, sides, tops, and transversely of all applicable Keystones. The string lines shall be laid out to the correct dimensions as determined by Keystones such that the rows and columns are evenly spaced. All headstones shall be vertically plumbed and aligned by leveling the front, back, and sides while raising or lowering the headstone as required to achieve a height of 25 inches above the mean (average) topsoil level. IMPORTANT: To meet the requirement of a smooth, flowing transition, the Contractor may be required to set the headstone at a height other than at the required 25 inches above grade with approval by the COR. These measurements shall be adhered to as closely as possible and may be adjusted to suit unique site conditions with approval by the COR. See Exhibit B.

2.4.3 All remaining headstones in the rows, columns, and transverse directions are then aligned along the string lines front to back, side-to-side, transversely, and match the required row and column spacing for the section. All remaining headstones are to be vertically plumbed and aligned by leveling the front, back, and sides while raising or lowering the upright headstone as required to achieve a height of 25 inches above the mean (average) topsoil level. See Exhibit B. The installation, adjusting, and setting of the remaining headstones shall meet all requirements of this contract.

2.4.4 The Contractor shall use a wooden tamper to bump the headstone into alignment of the string line to the maximum extent possible without having to remove the headstone from the socket, while maintaining plus/minus (+/-) 1/8-inch maximum tolerance shall be maintained in the vertical, lateral, and transverse directions in accordance with the dimensional requirements. The alignment of the headstones should be checked frequently during this process because the tamping of the headstones may move the headstone out of level or off the mark on the line.

2.4.5 Headstones shall be installed to within one degree of fully vertical when measured on front and sides using a digital level.

2.4.6 The completed set headstones shall be anchored firmly in place so that the headstones are rigid with no give or play regardless of the soil and terrain conditions. All headstones shall be firmly set and anchored in place with no movement from forces subjected by the COR.

2.4.7 The measurements between rows or columns of headstones and between the headstones within each row or column may differ from one gravesite section to the next. This condition is to be discussed with COR where this is found to occur. Some variances may be allowed by the COR in order to keep a uniform appearance of headstones being aligned.

2.4.8 Headstones set shall be clean of all dirt, handprints, etc. by the close of the work day in accordance with HEADSTONE CLEANING.

2.4.9 Any headstones broken or damaged by the Contractor shall be reported to the COR by close of business each working day in order that the grave can be properly marked. The Contractor shall be responsible for the cost of the replacement. The cost of the replacement headstone(s) will be deducted from Contractor’s invoice(s). All headstone replacements must be coordinated with the COR. Any existing permanent gravesite control markers, temporary contractor installed control markers, grid or sectional monuments that are disturbed, displaced, or broken shall be replaced and properly reset by a licensed surveyor at the Contractor’s expense. Curbs, roads, walks, 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 Contractor’s expense. The requirements of this paragraph shall be completed by the Contractor within fourteen (14) workdays, unless otherwise agreed to by the COR.

2.4.10 TURFGRASS REESTABLISHMENT: All turf areas that are disturbed where headstone setting or raise and realignment work has occurred, shall have turfgrass re-established in accordance with “LAWN MAINTENANCE: SODDING/SEEDING.”

3.

SECTION 3

TURF MAINTENANCE: FERTILIZATION, PEST CONTROL, AERATION, AND DETHATCHING

3.1 GENERAL

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.

3.2 SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: High maintenance areas have a well-established, healthy, 95% weed-free stand of turf.

The Contractor shall be responsible for maintaining the turf areas of the Cemetery and the immediate area surrounding the Cemetery in a healthy condition utilizing turf management best practices, to include fertilization, soil amendments, weed and pest control, aeration and/or dethatching.

NCA Standard Operating Procedure 41-SOP-021 Turfgrass Maintenance serves as an additional reference for turf best management practices at all VA National Cemeteries.

The turfgrass at the cemetery is hybrid bermudagrass (Tif419).

3.3 EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

3.3.1 The Contractor shall supply all necessary applicators, hoses and other equipment.

3.3.2 Water shall be furnished by the Government at no cost to the Contractor.

3.3.3 The Contractor shall furnish all required pesticides, fertilizers, soil amendments, and any other supplies.

3.3.4 The NCA (COR or representative) will have soil testing of the site performed approximately every three (years), or as needed for projects. A copy of the soil test results will be provided to the contractor and COR, along with recommendation and guidance for the application of any required soil amendments, as indicated by the soil testing.

3.3.5 The Contractor shall complete and submit a detailed Pesticide and Fertilizer Application Plan to the COR and/or Cemetery Leadership no later than 30 days following the award (Attachment J). The Contractor submitted plan shall directly correspond to the specifications in this Performance Work Statement.

3.3.6 No fertilizers and/or chemicals shall be applied to cemetery grounds without prior approval from the COR and the Continental District Agronomist.

3.4 PESTICIDE APPLICATOR LICENSE

3.4.1 When any and all pesticide applications are being performed, a “Licensed Applicator” shall serve as the “site manager” for this contract and will be provided on site by the Contractor; all herbicide applications shall be applied directly by or under the supervision of a current commercially licensed pesticide applicator.

3.4.2 The licensed applicator must be a commercially licensed Texas Certified Pesticide Applicator licensed by the Texas Department of Agriculture; the license must be active and include Category 3a Landscape Maintenance. All applications shall be performed as per the Rules and Regulations of the Texas Department of Agriculture and/or the Texas Structural Pest Control Board, whichever has jurisdiction over the contractor’s applicator. The contractor shall submit the license to the COR prior to commencing work.

3.4.3 The Licensed Applicator must have at least three (3) years’ experience performing herbicide applications in commercial (non-residential) turf and ornamental landscapes. The Licensed Applicator will ensure all specifications are being met, ensure contract work does not conflict with ceremonies and funerals, and ensure employees are adequately supervised and proper conduct is maintained.

3.4.4 Any proposed personnel change for the Licensed Applicator shall be approved a minimum of ten (10) business days prior to a pesticide application.

3.5 NOTIFICATION AND RECORDS

3.5.1 The Contractor shall complete and submit a detailed Pesticide and Fertilizer Application Plan to the COR and/or Cemetery Leadership no later than 30 days following the award (Attachment J). The Contractor submitted plan shall directly correspond to the specifications in this Performance Work Statement.

3.5.2 In accordance with the submitted Pesticide and Fertilizer Application Plan (Attachment J), the contractor shall schedule the pesticide or fertilizer application date with the COR and only apply once given approval by the COR. The contractor shall give the COR a minimum of five (5) business days’ notice prior to application.

3.5.3 A minimum of five (5) business days in advance of each pesticide or fertilizer application, the contractor shall provide the SDS (MSDS only if SDS not available) and Label for all chemical products (pesticides and adjuvants) as well as the completed Pesticide or Fertilizer Application Proposal (Attachment K). Required information on the proposal includes the company name, company contact information; names, titles, and license information of the company’s staff that will perform the application; proposed date of application; application type (broadcast or spot); size of area to be treated; restricted entry, follow-up instructions and/or control symptoms; application area; the chemicals proposed (trade name, EPA registration number, active ingredient, total amount to be applied, proposed application rate); and targeted pest(s).

3.5.4 The contractor shall provide the completed Pesticide Application Record (Attachment L) by 5:00 pm on the day of application. Required information on the log includes the company name, company contact information; names, titles, and license information of the company’s staff that performed the application; date and time of application; application type (broadcast or spot); size of area treated; restricted entry, follow-up instructions and/or control symptoms; application area; the chemicals used (trade name, EPA registration number, active ingredient, total amount applied, application rate); targeted weed(s); and weather conditions (including the temperature and the average wind speed) during the time of application.

3.5.5 The contractor shall provide the completed Fertilizer Application Record (Attachment M) by 5:00 pm on the day of application.

3.5.6 The Contractor shall be responsible for maintaining adequate signage in all areas where pesticides have been applied. As needed, chemical application signs shall be placed on all sides and no less than 25 feet apart for visibility from all entry points. The Contractor shall also be responsible for removal of the chemical application signs no less than 24 hours after application.

3.6 PROCEDURE

3.6.1 The Contractor shall be responsible for taking all precautions to prevent damage to the Cemetery, in any manner, including headstones, monuments, flower bases, trees and other structures during maintenance operations. The Contractor shall be charged current replacement costs for headstones, other Cemetery structures or property damaged as a result of actions by contractor personnel.

3.6.2 Fertilizer: The Contractor shall apply fertilizer to support healthy turf growth in accordance with soil test and regional best management practices .

3.6.2.a Fertilizers shall be applied based on the results and recommendations of a representative soil test for the cemetery or section(s). The cemetery will conduct the soil test at a frequency of one (1) to three (3) years, and the COR will provide the most recent soil test results to the contractor by 31 January every year (Attachment N). Only a fertilizer or fertilizer program recommended by the soil test results shall be applied unless approved otherwise by the COR and District Agronomist. The most recent soil test was conducted in January 2025.

3.6.2.b The fertilizer product shall meet the following requirements:

3.6.2.b.1 Comply to soil test recommendations

3.6.2.b.2 Be a granular formulation

3.6.2.b.3 Contain 50% slow-release N

3.6.2.b.4 Contain micronutrients (ie S, Mn, Mg, Fe) as/if indicated by soil test

3.6.2.c The fertilizer application rates shall meet the following requirements:

3.6.2.c.1 Each individual application supplies approximately 1 to 1.5 lb N per 1000 sq ft; lower rates may be recommended during drought conditions.

3.6.2.c.2 All applications within one growing season total to 4 to 5 lbs N per 1000 sq ft;

3.6.2.c.3 Additional macronutrients at a rate not to exceed 1 lbs phosphate (P2O5) and 2 lbs potash (K2O ) per 1,000 sq ft per year as/if indicated by soil test. (Most recent soil test in Jan 2025 require 0.9 lbs phosphate per 1,000 sq ft per year.)

3.6.2.d Following the Grounds Management Plan, see the fertilizer program for hybrid bermudagrass at the cemetery with example product and rate:

Table 3.6. Example fertilizer program for hybrid bermudagrass at Kerrville National Cemetery – based upon January 2025 soil test results and off-the-shelf fertilizer products. Consult with District Agronomist for guidance.

29-0-5 with 40% SCU

AND

7.5 lbs per 1000 sq ft of 6-4-0 with 67% insoluble N

29-0-5 with 40% SCU

AND

7.5 lbs per 1000 sq ft of 6-4-0 with 67% insoluble N

29-0-5 with 40% SCU

AND

7.5 lbs per 1000 sq ft of 6-4-0 with 67% insoluble N

This specific example meets the fertilizer requirements in the PWS by supplying 4.4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft per year with 48% slow-release N and 0.9 lbs per 1000 sq feet of phosphate per year.

3.6.2.e All application methods of fertilizers shall be in strict accordance with manufacturer instructions, Department of Environmental Protection, and all applicable federal, state, and local laws.

3.6.2.f The fertilizer application equipment shall be correctly calibrated to the specific product used and the application made to achieve a uniform distribution of the fertilizer throughout the application area.

3.6.2.g The contractor shall provide written recommendations to COR to ensure that the fertilizer is properly watered in. The Contractor shall schedule and perform this watering requirement.

3.6.2.h The contractor shall make sure that all headstones, flat markers, monuments, sidewalks, patios, and other like surfaces are free of fertilizer granules immediately after the application and before watering in of fertilizer occurs. This shall aid in avoiding staining of surfaces. The contractor shall be responsible for removal of any staining, marking, of headstones, flat markers, monuments, sidewalks, patios, and other like surfaces that occur as result of a fertilizer application made by the contractor.

3.6.3 Soil Amendments: When soil tests indicate a need for soil amendments, the Contractor shall apply amendments at the rates indicated in those tests. Time of application shall be in late fall or early winter, unless local practice indicates a more favorable time. Soil amendments could include lime, gypsum, elemental sulfur, wetting agents, or compost. The contractor must keep application records of all soil amendments and furnish a copy to the COR within one (1) business day of application. Records must show type, amount, application area, and weather conditions.

3.6.4 Weed Control: The Contractor shall control broadleaf and grassy weeds through execution of a weed control program appropriate for the area, in accordance with NCA Handbook 3410, Integrated Pest Management Procedures for VA National Cemeteries, and current federal, state, and local regulations. Control methods may include mowing, trimming, pulling, harrowing, and spraying, or any other method approved by the COR. All Turf areas shall be 95% weed free.

3.6.4.a All herbicide applications shall be mixed and applied in such a manner as to bring about the optimal control of all broadleaf and grassy weeds in the improved turf areas of the cemetery, according to label direction. The contractor shall be responsible for the proper timing and method of each application so that the highest resulting weed control for that application shall be attained.

3.6.4.b The herbicide product shall meet the following requirements:

3.6.4.b.1 Follow industry best practices and label instructions to rotate chemical chemistry / Mode of Action (MOA) to mitigate herbicide resistance. If a specific active ingredient is failing to provide control, it shall be rotated out.

3.6.4.b.2 No pre-emergent herbicide family may be used over a consistent twelve (12) month period; MOA should be rotated either within or between years. During 2025, the active ingredient indaziflam was used from MOA group 29.

3.6.4.b.3 Be labeled for control of weeds in ornamental turfgrass – specifically for hybrid bermudagrass

3.6.4.b.4 Include the weeds of concern at the cemetery on the label. Weeds within the turf areas at the cemetery include aster, bromegrass, thistle, needlegrass verbena, woodsorrel, and clovers. If the Contractor identifies additional weeds within the ornamental turf areas while on site, the Contractor shall provide this information to the COR in writing.

3.6.4.c The herbicide application rates shall meet the following requirements:

3.6.4.c.1 Not be less than the minimum rate needed for control of the weeds of concern.

3.6.4.c.2 According to turf type, not be more than the maximum rate permitted per application nor total to more than the maximum annual use rate, according to label restrictions.

3.6.4.c.3 Split applications shall be used when identified as a best management practice for specific weeds of concern.

3.6.4.d Following the Grounds Management Plan, see the herbicide program for hybrid bermudagrass at the cemetery with example product and rate.

3.6.4.d.1 Spring Pre-emergent Broadcast: The exact timing of application is based on soil temperatures (55°F) and weather conditions.

3.6.4.d.2 Fall Pre-emergent Broadcast: The exact timing of application is based on soil temperatures (70°F) and weather conditions.

3.6.4.d.3 Spring Post Emergent Broadcast: The exact timing based on weed development.

3.6.4.d.4 Summer Post Emergent Broadcast: The exact timing based on weed development and residual period of Spring Post Emergent.

3.6.4.d.5 Fall Post Emergent Broadcast: The exact timing based on weed development and residual period of Summer Post Emergent.

3.6.4.d.6 Spot applications occur as needed based on weed species, weed development, weather conditions, and order of the COR. The Contractor shall schedule spot applications within five (5) business days of written request from the COR. Spot application size will not exceed label restrictions.

Table 3.6.4. Example herbicide program for hybrid bermudagrass turf at Kerrville National Cemetery. Spot sprays as needed.

January

Dormant Application (if needed)

February

April

May

June

Summer Application (spot only if drought conditions)

July

August

October

November

December

· Barricade (prodiamine, MOA 3)

· Dimension (dithiopyr, MOA 3)

· Princep (simazine; MOA 5)

· 3-Way Product (2,4-D, mecoprop, dicamba; MOA 4)

· On Deck (dicamba, 2,4-D; MOA 4)

· Avenue South (2,4-D, dicamba, penoxsulam, sulfentrazone; MOA 4. 2, 14)

3.6.4.e All application methods of herbicides shall be in strict accordance with manufacturer instructions, Department of Environmental Protection, and all applicable federal, state, and local laws. The Contractor is responsible for specifically the herbicide label at all times. This includes, but is not limited to, all safety, mixing, weather conditions, and application directions, and information.

3.6.4.f All contractor personnel shall be properly clothed and wearing proper safety equipment during any and all applications.

3.6.4.g All mixing of chemicals and filling of tanks shall be performed off site or only in an appropriate area of the cemetery as determined and directed by the COR.

3.6.4.h The herbicide application equipment shall be correctly calibrated (if granular, to the specific product) and the application made to achieve a uniform distribution of the herbicide(s) throughout the application area.

3.6.4.i The Contractor shall provide written instructions to the COR concerning the expected control timeline and symptoms.

3.6.4.j The Contractor shall provide written recommendations to the COR concerning any watering requirements to activate chemicals, as needed. The Contractor shall schedule and perform this watering requirement.

3.6.4.k The contractor shall be responsible for any and all repeat, follow-up, and/or spot spray herbicide applications, due to ineffective (based upon provided control symptom timeline and product label), uncalibrated, or inaccurate applications. These repeat, follow-up, and spot spray treatments shall be provided at no additional charge to the government within five (5) business days of notification.

3.6.4.l Performance of work shall not impede nor disturb any burials or memorial services, or burial operations at any time. Generally, work should not take place within 1000 feet of the committal service area during a service, or during a ceremony in the Cemetery.

3.6.4.m The Contractor shall be responsible for any damages and/or turf replacement due to weed invasion and/or misapplication of chemicals.

3.6.4.n Plants, shrubs, trees, bushes, or other vegetative landscaping that are damaged or killed by the Contractor due to careless herbicide application shall be replaced with similar quality and size plantings at no additional cost to the government. The Contractor shall contact the COR prior to replacing any plantings.

3.6.5 Insect Control: All turf damaging insects or those that present a hazard to cemetery visitors shall be controlled by means of mowing, trimming, pulling, harrowing, and spraying, or any other method approved by the COR and in accordance with NCA Handbook 3410, Integrated Pest Management Procedures for VA National Cemeteries, and current federal, state, and local regulations. Control methods may include changes in cultural practices, mechanical removal, and spraying, or any other method approved by the COR.

3.6.5.a Identified insect pests at Kerrville National Cemetery include fire ants. For staff and visitor safety, fire ants shall be treated with broadcast applications twice a year and other insect pests as identified, and damage threshold exceeded.

3.6.5.b These applications shall be mixed and applied in such a manner as to bring about the optimal control of identified insect pests in the improved turf areas of the cemetery, according to label direction. The contractor shall be responsible for the proper timing and method of each application so that the highest resulting insect control for that application shall be attained.

3.6.5.c The insecticide product shall meet the following requirements:

3.6.5.c.1 Follow industry best practices and label instructions to rotate chemical chemistry / Mode of Action (MOA) to mitigate pesticide resistance. If a specific active ingredient is failing to provide control, it shall be rotated out.

3.6.5.c.2 Be labeled for control of identified insect pest in ornamental turfgrass – specifically for hybrid bermudagrass.

3.6.5.d The insecticide application rates shall meet the following requirements:

3.6.5.d.1 Not be less than the minimum rate needed for control of the identified insect pest.

3.6.5.d.2 According to turf type, not be more than the maximum rate permitted per application nor total to more than the maximum annual use rate, according to label restrictions.

3.6.5.e Following the Grounds Management Plan, see the insecticide program for hybrid bermudagrass at the cemetery with example products.

3.6.5.e.1 Spring Fire Ant Broadcast: This application shall occur between April 15 and May 31. The insecticide shall include both a fast- and slow-acting active ingredient / bait product such as a combination of hydramethylnon and methoprene.

3.6.5.e.2 Fall Fire Ant Broadcast: This application shall occur between September 15 and October 31. The insecticide shall include both a fast- and slow-acting active ingredient / bait product such as a combination of hydramethylnon and methoprene.

3.6.5.e.3 Army Worm / Chinch Bug / Other Pest Broadcast: The COR may request additional insecticide treatments as necessary. The insect pest will be identified and documented to exceed or predicted to exceed damage thresholds.

3.6.5.e.4 Spot or fire ant mound applications occur as needed based on insect populations, visitor safety, damage thresholds, and order of the COR. The Contractor shall schedule spot applications within five (5) business days of written request from the COR. Spot application size will not exceed label restrictions.

3.6.6 Disease Control: The Contractor shall control turf-damaging diseases through execution of an disease control program appropriate for the area, in accordance with NCA Handbook 3410, Integrated Pest Management Procedures for VA National Cemeteries, and current federal, state, and local regulations. Control methods may include changes in cultural practices, mechanical removal, and spraying, or any other method approved by the COR. See Section 3.4 on Pesticide Applicator License and Section 3.5 on Notifications and Records.

3.6.7 Prairie Dogs, Gophers and Moles and any other Pest: Prairie dogs, gophers and moles and any other pest shall be controlled by accepted industry practices and standards appropriate for the pests present or by elimination of their food source through the use of pesticides. All measures to eliminate or control pests shall be performed and supervised by a state licensed applicator/pest control specialist. The Contractor shall ensure that soil shall be tamped into holes and turf replaced or reseeded, or aggregate mulch replaced and tamped to ensure acceptable appearance at all times.

3.6.8 Aeration: The cemetery shall be core aerated at a minimum of one time per year, generally either in spring (April or May) or fall (September).

3.6.8.a When conditions are favorable (i.e., grass not stressed and is actively growing, soil not too wet or dry), typically in early fall, all accessible turf shall be core aerified. Compacted and high traffic areas may need to be core aerified twice per year, once when conditions are favorable in late spring to early summer and once in late summer to early fall, at discretion of the COR. Scheduled time frames for aerification are subject to change and shall be based on annual weather conditions.

3.6.8.b When conditions are favorable (i.e., grass not stressed and is actively growing, soil not too wet or dry), typically in early fall, all accessible turf shall be core aerified. Compacted and high traffic areas may need to be core aerified twice per year, once when conditions are favorable in late spring to early summer and once in late summer to early fall, at discretion of the COR. Scheduled time frames for aerification are subject to change and shall be based on annual weather conditions.

3.6.8.c Prior to core aerification, but no earlier than 48 hours, the Contractor shall mark all irrigation heads with blue marker flags. The contractor shall remove flags once the aerification is complete. Once initiated, core aerification of all cemetery turf shall be completed within three (3) business days.

3.6.8.d Aerification must reach a minimum depth of 3 inches with a diameter of 5/8 to 1 inch. A minimum of 12 cores or holes per square foot should be achieved. Aerification cores are to be left on the soil surface.

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

3.6.8.f Turf immediately within headstone rows and surrounding irrigation heads (within about one foot on either side of the headstone rows and irrigation heads) shall not be aerified to reduce risk of damage to the headstones, markers, and irrigation heads. It is imperative that headstones, grave markers, and section markers not be chipped, scratched, or otherwise damaged in any way.

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

3.6.8.h To prevent importation of weeds or other pests, the equipment shall be cleaned and sanitized with a diluted environmentally approved disinfectant cleaning solution prior to bringing it to the cemetery. All equipment shall be subject to inspection by the COR, or their designated representative, prior to use on cemetery grounds. The contractor shall attest, in writing, that all equipment has been cleaned/sanitized prior to use on cemetery grounds. Any cross contamination or associated turf damage resulting from Contractor negligence shall be repaired, treated, or replaced at the Contractor’s expense.

3.6.8.i The contractor is responsible for all training, supplies, personal protective equipment (PPE), equipment, and/or tractor attachments required to complete semi-annual aeration.

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

3.6.9 Dethatching: De-thatching of turf areas will only occur when necessary. If mowing is performed with the correct equipment and all other proper turfgrass maintenance procedures followed, thatch will not build up to a problematic level. In addition, de-thatching performed incorrectly can damage turf stands, so extreme caution must be used. The turf shall be dethatched at the discretion of the COR and/or the District Agronomist.

SECTION 4

LAWN MAINTENANCE: SODDING AND SEEDING

4.

4.1 GENERAL

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

4.2 SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: Turf used shall be compatible with the geographic region and adheres to the Cemetery Master Plan, where applicable. Guidance from COR, Agronomist in Continental District, or Landscape Architects in NCA Central Office is adhered to regarding turf selection and installation.

Work consists of sod bed preparation and sodding/seeding of areas of the Cemetery where the turf has been disturbed or has died. The Contractor shall be responsible for the removal and disposition of dead ground and shall refill the site with quality topsoil and perform the sodding/seeding to include the bare areas to ensure a quality turf. Delivery tickets, indicating date, weight, analysis, purity, and vendor’s name, etc. are to be submitted to the COR.

4.3 EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

1.

2.

3.

4.

4.3.

4.3.1. Tif419 Hybrid Bermudagrass

4.

4.1 4.2 4.3 4.3.1 4.3.1.a Only cultivars of grass sod that have been adapted in the State of Texas and certified by the State Agronomy Testing Laboratory will be accepted. Sod must be Tif419 Bermudagrass.

4.3.1.b The sod will be freshly cut, weed, disease, and insect free, and of healthy appearance with uniform color, leaf texture, and shoot density. Grass sod shall be relatively free of thatch, less than 0.5 inch (uncompressed). Grass sod shall be machine cut at a uniform soil thickness of 0.60 inch, plus or minus .25 inch, at the time of cutting. Measurement for thickness shall exclude top growth and any thatch. Irregular sized pads, broken pads, and torn or uneven ends will not be acceptable. Standard sized sections of grass sod shall be strong enough that it can be picked up and handled without damage. Grass sod shall not be harvested or transplanted when its moisture content (excessively dry or wet) may adversely affect its survival. The COR shall reject any sod with yellow leaves, signs of mold or mildew, is brown or straw-like indicating sod has remained on pallets or has been stacked too long, or has reduced vigor and will establish poorly.

4.3.1.c If overseeding thin areas, use a regionally adaptive 2- or 3-way blend. Acceptable cultivars include Sahara, Blackjack, Monaco, and Princess 77.

4.3.2. Topsoil

4.3.2 4.3.3 4.3.3.a Screened planting topsoil shall have been screened through a 1” screen or smaller.

4.3.3.b The topsoil shall be a loam, sandy loam, clay loam, silt loam, and/or sandy clay loam. The texture must conform to the following soil particle percentages: Sand: 20-70%; Silt: 10-60%; and Clay: 5-30%

4.3.3.c The topsoil shall have 4 to 8 percent soil organic matter.

4.3.3.d The pH range of shall be 5.5 to 8.0. A pH value up to 8.5 may be approved by the COR and District Agronomist in areas with prevailing geologic conditions.

4.3.3.e The electrical conductivity (soluble salts) should not exceed 2 mmhos/cm.

4.3.3.f The topsoil shall be free of weed seeds, noxious weeds, invasive plants, gravel, stones 1 inch or larger in any dimension, roots, viable plants, sod, clay lumps, foreign matter, refuse, and other extraneous materials harmful to plant growth.

4.3.3.g Topsoil shall not be infested with nematodes, grubs, other pests, pest eggs, or other undesirable organisms and disease-causing plant pathogens.

4.3.3.h The topsoil shall be friable and with sufficient structure to give good tilth and aeration to serve as a suitable medium for plant growth.

4.4 PROCEDURE

4.4.1 A firm seedbed/sod bed should be prepped with four (4) to six (6) inches of topsoil.

4.4.2 Grass sod shall be installed to match the existing grade of turf. All joints shall be butted tightly to eliminate any gaps or visible seams. Lateral joints shall be staggered to promote more uniform growth and strength. Care shall be exercised to ensure that sod pieces are not stretched or overlapped. Installed grass sod shall be properly rolled with sod roller to correct firmness.

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

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

4.4.5 Healthy turf shall be re-established within 30 days on all grave re-openers during the growing season.

4.4.6 Overseeding with bermudagrass seed may be necessary to improve turf density and uniform turf appearance. Follow common and local landscaping practices. Overseeding shall be broadcast by a spreader or hand spread in small patches at a rate of 1 lb PLS per 1000 sq ft. Overseeding shall occur in late winter to late spring – optimum timing is when soil temperatures are 60 to 70°F.

SECTION 5

LAWN MAINTENANCE: MOWING, TRIMMING, & EDGING

5.1 GENERAL

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

5.2 SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: Turf shall be maintained at a height within one-inch range of that which is professionally recommended for the recommended grass type for that geographic region. Optimally, the height is no more than one-half an inch (½”) above that range. Turf surrounding a headstone shall be trimmed to its recommended height. There shall be no signs of “grass burns” caused by mowers. There shall be no scalping of turf by mowers or trimmers.

The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing, edging and trimming all grass within the Cemetery and outside perimeter fence as specified by the COR and grounds map.

5.3 DEFINITIONS:

5.3.1 IMPROVED BURIAL AREAS include all burial sections of established turf with occupied gravesites including all developed land (turf, walks, beds, planter beds, drainage ditches, and tree/shrubs within and directly surrounding the burial areas).

5.3.2 IMPROVED SPECIALTY AREAS include highly visible areas, specifically: (1) Main Entrance, and Parking; (2) Public Information Areas; (3) Flag Pole Ceremony Areas; (4) POW and Service Flag Area and Walkways; (5) Memorial Walkways, and (6) all developed land, including (but not all inclusive) turf, walks, beds, planter beds, drainage ditches, tree/shrub, roads, and plazas within and directly surrounding the specialty areas.

5.3.3 IMPROVED NON-BURIAL AREAS are defined as unoccupied burial sections including areas in front of and between these sections and all developed land to borders and wetlands, including drainage ditches.

5.3.4 UNIMPROVED/NATIVE GRASS AND SHRUB AREAS are defined as all undeveloped land to cemetery borders and wetlands, including drainage ditches, as identified on the Grounds Maintenance Map.

5.4 EQUIPMENT

5.4.1 Commercial grade rear discharge or mulching riding mowers may be used provided that they are not operated within six (6) inches of headstones, monuments, tree trunks or other vertical surfaces.

5.4.2 Commercial grade power trimmers and power edgers shall be used to trim grass from around headstones, monuments, etc. (see TRIMMING below).

5.4.3 Cutting blades on mowing and trimming equipment must be kept sharp so that grass tips are properly cut - not torn or damaged. Cutting heights of all mowing equipment shall be set according to heights specified below, or as instructed by the COR. The height of grass is what is measured to get correct cutting height.

5.5 PROCEDURE

5.5.1 Turf shall be cut to maintain heights as set forth below, or as instructed by the COR. The COR, with input from the Continental District Agronomist, shall direct the contractor on the particular height to mow at any given time:

5.5.2 Mowing will be inspected by the COR on an unscheduled basis during the week. The growing season may require more than a weekly mowing in some areas. Mowing should be performed often enough so that no more than 1/3 of leafage is removed at any one mowing. Turf in burial and specialty 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. Optimally, the height should be no more than half an inch above that range. For example, the height of the grass should be 2.5” and in partial shaded areas that height of 3 inches is the best. 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 3” (three) inches. During dormant periods, mowing shall be done as necessary to maintain National Cemetery Standards. Grass is trimmed on borders.

5.5.3 Mowed areas shall be free of scalping, rutting, bruising, and uneven and rough cutting. Use of cutting equipment that is out of adjustment, thereby causing streaks or irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, or gouging of the soil is not permitted. After cutting, grass will have a uniform height.

5.5.4 New seed/sod will be present at all newly buried gravesites, second interment gravesites, and repaired gravesite locations. New seed/sod areas shall be hand mowed until it is fully established to the point where it will not be damaged by riding mowers.

5.5.5 Contractor shall be familiar with and utilize different mowing patterns and shall change direction, cross-cutting, change patterns, and vary mower wheel width patterns with after each mowing thereby reducing turf wear, prevent wheel rutting, and provide a neater appearance. All mowing around trees will be accomplished in a manner that prevents a “ringing pattern” around the tree and associated damage to turf.

5.5.6 There may be periods of excessive rainfall when the Contractor cannot access areas for mowing due to excessive wetness. The COR has the authority to stop work if weather conditions are such that work that day will do more damage than good to the Cemetery grounds. During these periods, the Contractor will be expected to ensure the grass is cut in less than a week’s time once grass is suitable for mowing.

5.5.7 All streets, curbs, walkways, tree wells and shrub beds shall be edged inside and outside Cemetery grounds. COR will conduct random inspections of edging on an unscheduled basis.

5.5.8 All un-mowed grass around headstones, monuments, and other vertical surfaces shall be trimmed/edged to keep the grass at the height standard described herein without scalping between stones or around stones. The finished height of the trimmed grass will exactly match the height of the mowed grass. Areas will be mowed first, followed by the trimming operation.

5.5.9 The walkways (inside and out), flagpole bases, interment area, and roads shall be cleaned up of grass clippings and leaves after mowing, weed-eating, edging, and trimming.

5.5.10 All streets, curbs, walkways, tree wells, permanent building/structure lines, and planting beds shall be stick-edged. Edging shall provide a clear zone ½” to 1” wide by 2” to 3” deep with all vegetation removed from joints and cracks. Damage to asphalt/concrete shall be avoided. Edging events will be completed as ordered by the COR. The first edging cycle will be completed approximately at the start of the mowing season, the second cycle one week prior to Memorial Day, the third during the month of July, and a fourth edging during the month of September. At least two additional edging events may be scheduled by the COR. The exact dates will be provided by the COR.

5.5.11 Trash and debris removal (as part of recurring mowing, trimming, & edging)

5.5.11.a All trash, debris, and fallen tree limbs shall be removed from within the developed portion of the Cemetery grounds daily or more frequently as necessary. All trash, etc. shall be removed from the ditch line and right-of-way about every two weeks or more frequently as necessary.

5.5.11.b Leaves, nuts, and twigs shall be hand raked, vacuumed, or blown by…