Combined_Synopsis_Solicitation_36C78626Q50190_Final.pdf

GENERAL INFORMATION:

Document Type:

Solicitation Number:

Title:

Post Date:

Original Response Date:

Applicable NAICS:

PSC:

Set Aside Type:

Issuing Contracting Office:

Place of Performance:

Attachments:

Combined Synopsis Solicitation

36C78626Q50190

Tree Pruning, Tree Removal, and Stump Grinding at Raleigh and Wilmington National Cemeteries

5/29/2026

6/22/2026 at 4:00 pm EST

561730 – Landscaping Services

S208 – Housekeeping – Landscaping/Groundskeeping

Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)

Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration, Contract Services 18434 Joplin Road Triangle, VA 22172

Raleigh National Cemetery 501 Rock Quarry Rd Raleigh, NC 27610

Wilmington National Cemetery 2011 Market St Wilmington, NC 28403

A – Statement of work (pg 10 ) A.1 – Raleigh Tree List, Photos, & Map (pg 16 ) A.2 – Wilmington Tree List, Photos, & Map (pg 20 ) B - Price Schedule (pg 24 ) C – SCA Wage Determination 2015-4393 Rev. 33 - Raleigh (pg 25) D – SCA Wage Determination 2015-4397 Rev. 31 - Wilmington (pg 35)

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial services prepared in accordance with FAR Overhaul Part 12. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation. Quotes are being requested and a written solicitation will not be issued. Solicitation number 36C78626Q50190 is issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for tree pruning, tree removal, and stump grinding at Raleigh and Wilmington National Cemeteries.

This solicitation incorporates provisions and clauses in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC) 2026-01 with an effective date of 03/13/2026.

NORTH AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (NAICS) CODE:

The (NAICS) code for this procurement is 561730. The business size standard in millions of dollars is $9,500,000.

PRICE SCHEDULE: See Attachment B.

DESCRIPTION OF REQUIREMENT: See Statement of Work at Attachment A.

CONTRACT DATES: The period of performance will be 90 days after the Post Award Conference.

Work at both locations must be completed within the 90-day period of performance.

DELIVERY/ACCEPTANCE LOCATION: Delivery will be FOB Destination and the delivery and acceptance locations will be at the Place of Performance addresses listed on page 1 of this Combined Synopsis/Solicitation.

CONTRACT TYPE: The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, National Cemetery Administration, anticipates the award of a Firm Fixed Priced (FFP) contract for tree pruning, tree removal, and stump grinding at Raleigh and Wilmington National Cemeteries.

This notice shall not be construed as a commitment by the Government to ultimately award a contract, nor does it restrict the Government to a particular acquisition approach. This solicitation and the subsequent award is subject to the availability of funding.

PRE-QUOTE SITE VISIT: Quoters are urged and expected to inspect all sites where services are to be performed and to satisfy themselves regarding all general and local conditions that may affect the cost of contract performance. In no event shall failure to inspect one or all sites constitute grounds for a claim after contract award. If you plan to conduct a site visit/inspection of Raleigh and Wilmington National Cemeteries, the following site visits have been scheduled:

Raleigh National Cemetery - Tuesday, June 9, 2026 @ 10:30 a.m. EST.

Wilmington National Cemetery – Wednesday, June 10, 2026 @ 10:30 a.m. EST *No additional site-visits or individual tours will be scheduled.

Interested prospective quoters should attend the scheduled site visits. Please meet David Beaver at the entrance of each cemetery. A RSVP is not required for site visits.

All questions resulting from the site visit should be sent to the Contracting Officer by following the instructions in the “RFQ QUESTIONS” section of this Combined Synopsis Solicitation. The Contracting Officer will then issue an amendment(s) answering all questions that were received on time (by the question due date). Potential Quoters are responsible for checking SAM.gov for issued Amendments to this Combined Synopsis Solicitation.

INSTRUCTIONS TO QUOTERS: All prospective Quoters are required to have an active Federal Government contracts registration in System for Award Management (SAM) website when they submit a quote, and at time of award. If a Quoter does not have an active/current registration with SAM.gov prior to the solicitation close date, and at time of award, it will result in the company being considered non-responsive.

Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) socio-economic category concerns MUST also have an active/current registration with SBA VetCert (https://veterans.certify.sba.gov/) or SBA Small Business Search (https://search.certifications.sba.gov/) prior to the solicitation close date, and at time of award. Failure to comply will result in the Quoter being considered ineligible.

RFQ QUESTIONS: All questions regarding this solicitation are to be submitted to the Contracting Officer, via email, no later than 12:00 pm EST, Friday, June 12, 2026. No questions will be accepted after this time. Questions pertaining to this announcement shall be sent by email to:

sarah.poole1@va.gov. Telephone inquiries will not be accepted. Amendments will be issued to answer all questions that are submitted.

RESPONSE TO REQUEST FOR QUOTATION (RFQ): Quotes are due to the Contracting Officer no later than 4:00 pm EST on Monday, June 22, 2026. Email responses to sarah.poole1@va.gov.

Responses to this announcement may result in a Firm Fixed Priced (FFP) contract. The Government intends to make award without discussions. It is the responsibility of the Quoter to submit their best pricing at the time quotes are due. All information submitted in response to this announcement is voluntary and the Government will not pay for information provided nor will it compensate any respondent for any cost incurred in developing information provided for the Government. Quoters are responsible for obtaining any and all amendments or additional information concerning this announcement at SAM.gov. Failure to provide a signed amendment as part of the quotation submission will result in being considered non-responsive and therefore ineligible for award.

QUOTATION FORMAT AND SUBMITTAL INFORMATION: Quotes must be submitted on company letterhead in Adobe pdf platforms and submitted by email to the individual listed in the Response to Request for Quotation (RFQ) section of this Combined Synopsis Solicitation. Quoters are hereby advised that any Quoter-imposed terms and conditions which deviate from the Government’s terms and conditions, shall render the Quoter’s quote non-responsive, and thus ineligible for award.

All quotes shall be submitted in three (3) different documents for each volume listed below. Each title shall include the appropriate Volume. The Volumes are as follows:

Volume A – Administrative

The Quoter shall include the following in Volume A:

o Legal Business/Company Name (as listed in SAM.gov) o Business Mailing Address o SAM Unique Entity ID (UEI) o Point of Contact o Telephone Number o Email Address o Signed and dated copy of each Amendment, if applicable. Failure to comply shall result in the

Quoter being considered non-responsive and thus ineligible for award.

o Completed copy of the following clause is required to be submitted as part of the quote: (Failure to comply shall result in the Quoter being considered non-responsive).

• VAAR 852.219-75 VA Notice of Limitations on Subcontracting – Certificate of Compliance for Services and Construction (NOV 2022) https://veterans.certify.sba.gov/ https://search.certifications.sba.gov/ mailto:sarah.poole1@va.gov mailto:sarah.poole1@va.gov https://sam.gov/content/home

*NOTE – It is the responsibility of the Quoter to ensure the required entity-level representations and certifications are completed on SAM.gov, and that all other (procurement specific & by submission of the Offeror) required representations and certification provisions are submitted with their quotation. (Those listed above must be submitted with the quote, unless disclosure is not required.)

Volume B – Technical Proposal

Quoter shall include the following in Volume B in accordance with the Technical Qualifications criteria listed in the Evaluation Process section of this combined synopsis solicitation:

1. Provide the certificate of an ISA Certified Arborist that will serve as the Site Manager for this contract.

2. List experience of the Site Manager/Certified Arborist, within the last two (2) years, that demonstrates they have experience as a direct supervisor of a commercial tree maintenance operation that has included large shade tree removal, tree pruning, and stump grinding at government, industrial, commercial, or public sites.

3. Present a Work Plan that will detail how you will accomplish all the required work within the ninety

(90) day period of performance.

Volume C – Pricing

Quoter shall include the following in Volume C:

o Proposed pricing shall be submitted on the included Price Schedule (Attachment B).

EVALUATION PROCESS (Addendum 52.212-2): Quotes will be evaluated using FAR RFO Part 12.

The Government intends to award a Firm-Fixed Price Contract resulting from this Combined Synopsis Solicitation to the responsible Quoter with the Lowest Priced Technically Acceptable quote. This means that the Quoter with the lowest evaluated price, meeting or exceeding the acceptability standards for non-price factors will receive the award. The lowest price quote will be sent for technical review and if found technically acceptable, award will be made to that Quoter, as long as the Quoter can be determined responsible. (A responsible prospective contractor means a contractor that meets the standards in FAR RFO 9.104.) If the lowest priced quote is not found technically acceptable, then the next lowest quote will be sent for technical review. This process will continue until a quote is found technically acceptable.

The non-price factors used to evaluate quotations are: Technical Qualifications.

Technical Qualifications

Quotes shall be evaluated in accordance with the criteria contained in the Statement of Work and on whether or not the technical qualifications meet the Government requirements. If any of the required information is missing, a Quoter will not be considered technically qualified. Technical qualifications will be evaluated for the following:

1. Provide the certificate of a ISA Certified Arborist that will serve as the Site Manager for this contract.

2. List experience of the Site Manager/Certified Arborist, within the last two (2) years, that demonstrates they have experience as a direct supervisor of a commercial tree maintenance operation that has included large shade tree removal, tree pruning, and stump grinding at government, industrial, commercial, or public sites.

3. Present a Work Plan that will detail how you will accomplish all the required work within the ninety

(90) day period of performance.

POST AWARD CONFERENCE: A virtual Post-Award conference will be scheduled by the Contracting Officer to discuss the requirements with the Awardee and all other stakeholders.

CONTRACT CLAUSES AND SOLICITATION PROVISIONS:

DIGNITY CLAUSE

Respect for Headstones and Markers in National Cemeteries

Handling of Markers and Headstones

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 of the Contractor employees of the remains buried in the grounds where the work is performed. The utmost care must be given to these remains and the headstones and flat grave markers that mark those gravesites and memorialize the service of individuals.

a. Contractors cannot walk, stand, lean, sit or jump on headstones or markers. Nor can they drive over them.

b. No tools, equipment or other items will be placed or leaned on headstones or markers.

c. Use care not to scratch or damage markers in any manner.

d. Contractor shall be responsible for replacing damaged headstones and markers and for restoring turf damaged during performance of this work.

e. Additionally, should any activity result in the exposure and/or damage to any remains, container for remains (e.g., casket or urn), or outer burial container, the contractor must contact the COR, Director/Assistant Director, or Contracting Officer (CO) for guidance.

Any doubts as to proper procedures shall be brought to the attention of the COR, Director/Assistant Director, or CO for guidance or resolution. The contractor is required to discuss the guidance with employees and/or subcontractors.

(End of Clause)

FAR CLAUSES

52.212-4 Contract Terms and Conditions-Commercial Items (NOV 2023) (DEVIATION OCT 2025) Addendum to FAR 52.212-4 Clauses in corporate by reference in numeric order starting with FAR and followed by VAAR.

The following solicitation clauses apply to this acquisition:

52.252-2 Clauses Incorporated by References (FEB 1998). The full text of FAR/VAAR clauses may be accessed electronically at:

https://www.acquisition.gov/-far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52#FAR_52_252_2 http://www.va.gov/oal/library/vaar/index.asp

FAR 52.203-17 Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights (NOV 2023) FAR 52.203-18 Prohibition on Contracting with Entities that Require Certain Internal Confidentiality

Agreements or Statements – Representation (Jan 2017) FAR 52.203-19 Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements

(JAN 2017)

FAR 52.204-13 System for Award Management Maintenance (Oct 2018)(DEVIATION NOV 2025) FAR 52.209-6 Protecting the Government’s Interest When Subcontracting with Contractors Debarred, Suspended, Proposed for Debarment, or Voluntarily Excluded (JAN 2025)(DEVIATION

NOV 2025)

FAR 52.209-10 Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (Nov 2015)

(DEVIATION NOV 2025)

FAR 52.217-8 Option to Extend Services (Nov 1999) *Fill-in: 7 calendar days of the current contract expiration date

FAR 52.219-6 Notice of Small Business Set-Aside (NOV 2010)(DEVIATION NOV 2025) FAR 52.222-3 Convict Labor (JUN 2003)(DEVIATION NOV 2025) FAR 52.222-36 Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (JUN 2020) (DEVIATION NOV 2025) FAR 52.222-41 Service Contract Labor Standards (AUG 2018)(DEVIATION NOV 2025) FAR 52.222-42 Statement of Equivalent Rates for Federal Hires (MAY 2014)(DEVIATION 2025)

*Fill-in: 11260 - Pruner $16.59 / $5.55 FAR 52.222-50 Combating Trafficking in Persons (NOV 2021)(DEVIATION OCT 2025) FAR 52.222-55 Minimum Wages for Contractor Workers Under Executive Order 14026 (JAN 202)

(DEVIATION NOV 2025)

FAR 52.222-62 Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706)(JAN 2022) FAR 52.222-90 Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors (Apr 2026) FAR 52.223-5 Pollution Prevention and Right-to-Know Information (May 2024) FAR 52.226-8 Encouraging Contractor Policies to Ban Text Messaging While Driving (MAY 2024) FAR 52.232-33 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer-System for Award Management (OCT 2018) FAR 52.232-40 Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (Mar 2023) FAR 52.233-3 Protest After Award (Aug 1996) (DEVIATION NOV 2025) FAR 52.233-4 Applicable Law for Breach of Contract Claim. (OCT 2004) (DEVIATION NOV 2025) FAR 52.237-2 Protection of Government Buildings, Equipment, and Vegetation (APR 1984) FAR 52.240-91 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions (DEVIATION NOV 2025) FAR 52.244-6 Subcontracts for Commercial Products and Commercial Services. (JAN 2025)

(DEVIATION OCT 2025)

FAR 52.252-6 Authorized Deviations in Clauses (NOV 2020)

*Fill-in: VA Acquisition Regulation (VAAR) (48 CFR Chapter 8) https://www.acquisition.gov/-far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52#FAR_52_252_2 http://www.va.gov/oal/library/vaar/index.asp

VAAR CLAUSES

VAAR 852.201-70 Contracting Officer’s Representative (Dec 2022) VAAR 852.203-70 Commercial Advertising (May 2018) VAAR 852.219-73 VA Notice to Total Set-Aside for Certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small

Businesses (Jan 2023)(Deviation) *Fill-in: "By the end of the base term..."

VAAR 852.232-72 Electronic Submission of Payment Requests (Nov 2018) VAAR 852.237-75 Key Personnel (Oct 2019) VAAR 852.242-71 Administrative Contracting Officer (Oct 2020)

End of Addendum to 52.212-4

VAAR 852.219-75 VA Notice of Limitations on Subcontracting – Certificate of Compliance for Services and Construction (Jan 2023)(Deviation)

(a) Pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 8127(k)(2), the offeror certifies that -

(1) If awarded a contract (see FAR 2.101 definition), it will comply with the limitations on subcontracting requirement as provided in the solicitation and the resultant contract, as follows:

(i) Services. In the case of a contract for services (except construction), the contractor will not pay more than 50% of the amount paid by the government to it to firms that are not VIP-listed SDVOSBs as set forth in 852.219-73 or VOSBs as set forth in 852.219-74. Any work that a similarly situated VIP-listed subcontractor further subcontracts will count towards the 50% subcontract amount that cannot be exceeded. Other direct costs may be excluded to the extent they are not the principal purpose of the acquisition and small business concerns do not provide the service as set forth in 13 CFR 125.6.

(ii) □ General construction. In the case of a contract for general construction, the contractor will not pay more than 85% of the amount paid by the government to it to firms that are not VIP-listed SDVOSBs as set forth in 852.219-73or VOSBs as set forth in 852.219-74. Any work that a similarly situated VIP-listed subcontractor further subcontracts will count towards the 85% subcontract amount that cannot be exceeded. Cost of materials are excluded and not considered to be subcontracted.

(iii) □ Special trade construction contractors. In the case of a contract for special trade contractors, the contractor will not pay more than 75% of the amount paid by the government to it to firms that are not VIP-listed SDVOSBs as set forth in 852.219-73 or VOSBs as set forth in 852.219-74. Any work that a similarly situated subcontractor further subcontracts will count towards the 75% subcontract amount that cannot be exceeded. Cost of materials are excluded and not considered to be subcontracted.

(2) The offeror acknowledges that this certification concerns a matter within the jurisdiction of an Agency of the United States. The offeror further acknowledges that this certification is subject to Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001, and, as such, a false, fictitious, or fraudulent certification may render the offeror subject to criminal, civil, or administrative penalties, including prosecution.

(3) If VA determines that an SDVOSB/VOSB awarded a contract pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 8127 did not act in good faith, such SDVOSB/VOSB shall be subject to any or all of the following:

(i) Referral to the VA Suspension and Debarment Committee;

(ii) A fine under section 16(g)(1) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 645(g)(1)); and

(iii) Prosecution for violating section 1001 of title 18.

X

(b) The offeror represents and understands that by submission of its offer and award of a contract it may be required to provide copies of documents or records to VA that VA may review to determine whether the offeror complied with the limitations on subcontracting requirement specified in the contract.

Contracting officers may, at their discretion, require the contractor to demonstrate its compliance with the limitations on subcontracting at any time during performance and upon completion of a contract if the information regarding such compliance is not already available to the contracting officer. Evidence of compliance includes, but is not limited to, invoices, copies of subcontracts, or a list of the value of tasks performed.

(c) The offeror further agrees to cooperate fully and make available any documents or records as may be required to enable VA to determine compliance with the limitations on subcontracting requirement. The offeror understands that failure to provide documents as requested by VA may result in remedial action as the Government deems appropriate.

(d) Offeror completed certification/fill-in required. The formal certification must be completed, signed and returned with the offeror's bid, quotation, or proposal. The Government will not consider offers for award from offerors that do not provide the certification, and all such responses will be deemed ineligible for evaluation and award.

Certification

I hereby certify that if awarded the contract, [insert name of offeror] will comply with the limitations on subcontracting specified in this clause and in the resultant contract. I further certify that I am authorized to execute this certification on behalf of [insert name of offeror].

Printed Name of Signee:

Printed Title of Signee:

Signature:

Date:

Company Name and Address:

(End of clause)

FAR PROVISIONS

FAR 52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors-Commercial Products and Commercial Services

(SEP 2023)(DEVIATION OCT 2025)

Addendum to FAR 52.212-1 List all provisions incorporated by reference in numeric order starting with FAR and followed by VAAR.

The following solicitation provisions apply to this acquisition:

FAR 52.252-1 Solicitation Provisions Incorporated by Reference (Feb 1998). The full text of FAR/VAAR Provisions may be accessed electronically at: https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52#FAR_52_252_1 https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52#FAR_52_252_1browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52#FAR_52_252_1browse/index/far

FAR 52.203-11 Certification and Disclosure Regarding Payments to Influence Certain Federal Transactions

(SEP 2024)

FAR 52.203-18 Prohibition on Contracting with Entities that Require Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements – Representation (JAN 2017)

FAR 52.204-7 System for Award Management (NOV 2024) (DEVIATION NOV 2025) FAR 52.212-2 Evaluation – Commercial Products and Commercial Services (NOV 2021)

(Deviation OCT 2025) *See Evaluation Process (Addendum 52.212-2) on page 4

FAR 52.240-90 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions Representations and Certifications (Deviation Nov 2025)

FAR 52.252-5 Authorized Deviations in Provisions (NOV 2020) *Fill-in: VA Acquisition Regulation (VAAR) (48 CFR Chapter 8)

VAAR PROVISIONS

N/A

End of addendum to 52.212-1

DESCRIPTION / SPECIFICATIONS / WORK STATEMENT

A.1 BACKGROUND

Raleigh and Wilmington National Cemeteries are National Shrines that honor veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our Nation. The cemetery receives visitors, holds ceremonies and conducts committal services. Because of the cemetery’s special significance and attention, it receives from the public, strict adherence to contract specifications is essential.

A.2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

A.2.1 Place of Performance: The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, equipment, tools, materials and supplies necessary to provide tree pruning, removal and stump grinding services at the following VA National Cemetery:

CEMETERY ADDRESS REQUIRED

SERVICES

Wilmington National Cemetery

2011 Market St.

Wilmington, NC. 28403

Tree Removal & Stump Grinding, Pruning around utility lines.

Raleigh National Cemetery 501 Rock Quarry Road, Raleigh, NC. 27610

Tree Removal & Stump Grinding, large limb removal.

A.2.2 Tree Pruning / Removal Raleigh National Cemetery: There is a total of five (5) trees to be removed along with stump grinding, three (3) trees to be pruned, and all trees within 5 feet of the outside of the wall to be removed with stumps being cut flush/level with the ground (see map). Trees to be pruned or removed will be identified by the COR & shall be pruned / removed in accordance with all terms, conditions, specifications and requirements. Tree list provided in attachment A.1 in the document

Tree Pruning / Removal Wilmington National Cemetery: There is a total of five (5) trees to be removed along with stump grinding and three (3) trees to be pruned. Trees to be pruned or removed will be identified by the COR & shall be pruned / removed in accordance with all terms, conditions, specifications and requirements. Tree list provided in attachment A.2 in the document

A.3 SPECIFICATIONS

A.3.1 Tree Removal / Stump Grinding / Deadwood Pruning

(a) Removal and pruning of all trees shall be accomplished under the direction and guidance of an ISA Certified Arborist provided by the Contractor. All trees that are scheduled to be removed shall be topped prior to falling and all limbs over 3 ½” in diameter must be lowered to the ground by ropes. At no time should any branches, tree limbs or sections of the trunk be dropped to the ground or on any headstones.

The Contractor will be responsible for any damage to the turf, roads or headstones caused by dropping parts of the tree.

ATTACHMENT A

(b) Deadwood pruning is the removal of broken, hanging, dead or otherwise potentially dangerous limbs from the entire tree. The contractor will thoroughly prune and remove any deadwood from the entire tree regardless of height. Trees may also be designated for deadwood pruning if they have an abundance of deadwood less than four inches in diameter in their crowns. Raising the tree canopy will be included to remove low hanging branches that interfere with cemetery operations.

(c) For all stumps being ground, they shall be ground to a minimum of 4" below soil level, or to the lateral roots, if reached before the specific depth. The Contractor shall never grind the stumps to the depth that would interfere with the roots of any adjacent tree(s) that the Government intends to retain. All grindings will then be removed from the cavity of the stump. Stump cavities will be filled with clean topsoil, compacted and evenly graded. After grading has been completed the top soiled area will have grass seed (100% Turf Type Tall Fescue) evenly applied and graded. All stumps shall be marked by the Contractor with a red cone or flag after the tree removal if they are not ground out immediately after the removal so to avoid any tripping hazards for cemetery visitors.

For trees being removed that do not require the stump to be ground, the stump shall be cut flush with the ground.,

(d) All wood chip particles and debris from the tree removal / pruning shall be cleaned up thoroughly and removed from the cemetery daily. The Contractor shall take every precaution to prevent any falling branches or trees from damaging any headstones, roadways, adjacent plant material or structures.

To ensure protection of headstones that are near trees being pruned or removed, the Contractor will use covers to place over the headstones while the work is being performed. These covers will be provided by the Contractor. The covers used have usually been orange traffic barrels capable of being placed over the average headstone with an above grade measurement of 26” tall X 13” wide X 4” thick or something similar may be used to make sure that the headstones are covered

The Contractor shall be responsible for repair and or replacement to any damaged turf, headstones or other property. All work will be completed within ninety (90) days of commencement of work. A work plan is required from the contractor at the time of contractors quote submittal and after contract award if changes are made to the work plan.

The work plan must detail how all work will be accomplished within the 90-day period.

A.3.2 Debris & Waste Removal: Removal of debris and waste away from the cemetery grounds shall be the responsibility of the Contractor. At the end of each day, the Contractor will remove all pruning / trimming cuts, tree limbs, dead branches, bush / shrub / hedge clippings and other debris from the cemetery site resulting from the work. The Contractor shall ensure at all times that debris and waste generated by the Contractor is kept clear of vehicular and pedestrian traffic throughout the site. NOTE: The Government shall not provide receptacles for disposal of debris related to this contract.

A.3.3 Communication & Coordination of Work with COR: Contractor shall participate in regular meetings with Government personnel and other Contractors at the cemetery to coordinate contract work schedules and contract related issues. Communication with the COR is strongly encouraged. Burial activities at NCA shall take precedence over contract work activities. Work activity and noise cannot disturb Burial Services. Trucks and workers are prohibited from passing through the service area during this period.

A.3.4 Cemetery Activities: To cause the least possible interference with cemetery activities, contract personnel will stop (cease) all work in areas where burials are taking place. As a general "rule-of-thumb", work should not take place within 1,000 feet of an ongoing committal service or ceremony. The Site Manager will re-direct work throughout the rest of the Cemetery – so that productive use of labor and equipment is assured, and downtime is avoided. If the Contractor fails to re-direct employees away from an event in a timely manner, the COR may then do so.

A.3.5 Notwithstanding the Contractors responsibility for total management during the performance of this contract, the administration of the contract will require maximum coordination between the Government and the Contractor. The Government shall provide, at the time of contract award, a list of Government personnel authorized to act as Contracting Officer's Technical Representatives.

A.4 CONTRACT MANAGEMENT

A.4.1 Site Manager: An ISA Certified Arborist shall serve as the “site manager” for this contract and will be provided by the Contractor whenever work is being performed - other than trash and debris pick-up. The Certified Arborist must have experience within the last two years as a direct supervisor of a commercial tree maintenance operation that has included large shade tree removal, tree pruning and stump grinding/removal in industrial, commercial or public sites and must be certified by International Society of Arboriculture. The Certified Arborist will ensure all specifications are met, ensure contract work does not conflict with ceremonies and funerals, and ensure employees are adequately supervised and proper conduct is maintained.

If the Site Manager is replaced after award, the Contractor shall submit the name of a new Site Manager, along with their ISA Certified Arborist certificate, to the Contracting Officer for approval prior to the them reporting to work under this contract.

A.4.2 Representatives of the Contracting Officer: The VA Contracting Officer will designate one

(or more) representative to serve as the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). Such designation will be in writing and will define the scope and limitations of the designee's authority. A copy of the designation(s) shall be furnished to the Contractor at time of award.

The COR is responsible for providing technical guidance and advice under this contract.

The COR may direct and arrange the Contractor’s work schedule in specific areas of the cemetery to coordinate with daily cemetery activities and operations. Duties and responsibilities of the COR include, but are not limited to, the following:

(i) Provides contract oversight and technical guidance to the Contractor.

(ii) Acts as technical liaison between the Danville National Cemetery and the

Contractor and between the cemetery and the Contracting Officer. (Note: The COR may not modify the intent or the terms and conditions of the contract.)

(iii) Placing orders for services.

(iv) Determining whether contract deliverables meet functional, technical and performance specifications.

(v) Verification / certification of payments to the Contractor for services rendered.

(vi) Assuring that any changes affecting work involved, price, terms and/or conditions under the contract are not implemented before written authorization is issued by the Contracting Officer.

A.4.3 Contracting Officer: Contract Administration and administrative functions are the responsibility of the VA Contracting Officer. Any modifications to the contract, including those involving no-cost changes, increases and decreases in cost or level of services provided, termination or extension of the contract (in part or in whole) and decisions concerning claims or disputes, must be authorized in writing by the Government Contracting Officer.

A.4.4 Federal Holidays: All work required under this contract will be performed during normal business days and daylight hours between 8:00 am and 4:30 pm, local time, Monday through Friday, excluding Federal holidays. Deviations from the work schedule shall require prior written authorization from the COR. The following is a list of the Federal holidays:

New Year's Day Martin Luther King's Birthday President's Day Memorial Day Juneteenth Fourth of July

Labor Day Columbus Day Veterans Day Thanksgiving Day Christmas Day

A.5 RESPONSIBILITIES & STANDARDS OF CONDUCT

A.5.1 Responsibilities

(a) The Contractor shall be aware of the intensive labor and equipment requirements needed to meet contract specifications. Inclement weather - other than prolonged snow cover or unusual amounts of rain - will not be considered an excusable delay in meeting specifications. The government expects the Contractor to work throughout all weather conditions and to apply additional labor and equipment as necessary to meet deadlines.

(b) All portions of the trunk and any tree limbs or branches over 3 ½ inches in diameter must be lowered to the ground by crane or ropes and may not be dropped. At no time may the contractor drop any branches onto cemetery headstones or turf.

If there are any headstones that may have to be removed in order to obtain access to a particular tree the Contractor will be responsible for alerting the COR and cemetery staff before doing any work in this location. The cemetery staff will be responsible for removing and resetting the headstone or stones in question.

(c) The Contractor shall obtain all necessary licenses and permits necessary to perform the work involved and will take all precautions necessary to protect persons and property from injury or damage during the performance of this contract. Contractor is responsible for any injury or damage during the performance of this contract including injury to himself/herself, his/her employees, or others.

(d) The Contractor shall be liable for any damage to personal or public property that occurs during the performance of this contract that is caused by him/her or his/her employees' fault or negligence.

(e) The Contractor shall maintain personal liability and property damage insurance prescribed by the laws of the State of North Carolina.

(f) The Contractor shall contact and/or coordinate with any utility companies or state offices that may be required prior to the start of work.

(g) Cooperation with other Contractors: The government may undertake or award other contracts for additional work at or near the site of work for this contract. The Contractor shall fully cooperate with other Contractors and with Government employees and shall carefully adapt scheduling and performance of work, adhering to any direction provided by the COR.

(h) More than one Contractor may have access to storage areas designated by the COR.

The Government will not be liable to the Contractor for costs associated with claims, damages, loss or replacement of equipment or personal property while on Cemetery property.

(i) The Contractor will try and limit the operation of excessively large / heavy trucks tractors, or other heavy equipment on any turf area except as provided in this contract or as authorized by the COR. The Contractor will be responsible for repairing turf damage caused by the Contractor during all weather conditions that is deemed excessive by the COR at no additional cost to the government.

(j) The Contractor shall provide adequate safety warning devices, barricades and cover boards, etc., at all work sites to eliminate hazards from public visitors and cemetery employees at no cost to the government.

(k) At the end of each day, the Contractor shall remove all debris from the cemetery site.

At all times rubbish and trash generated by the Contractor shall be kept clear of vehicle and pedestrian traffic throughout the site. The government shall not provide receptacles for the disposal of debris related to this contract.

(l) Reporting "on-the-job" Injuries: The Contractor is required to report all "on-the-job" injuries incurred by the Contractor, its agents or employees, resulting from performance of this contract. Contractor will notify the COR (either orally or via telephone) within twenty-four (24) hours of the injury and provide details and exact location of the incident. This will be followed up by a written notice to the COR. Any Contractor (including its agents and employees) that knowingly files a false claim may be criminally prosecuted.

A.5.2 Standards of Employee Conduct: Contractor and contractor personnel are required to adhere to the following standards of dress and conduct while performing work in the National Cemetery. These standards and regulations are enforceable under Title 38, U.S.C. Section 218. Contractor and Contractor Personnel --

(a) Shall be fully clothed at all times, to include long slacks or pants and shirt, buttoned up from neck to waist. Clothing shall be clean each day. Any soiled clothing should be cemetery work-related that day. T-shirts and/or tank tops as outer garments are prohibited. Shoes/boots will have no holes or loose soles. Steel-toed shoes will be required in accordance with OSHA. Contractor employees will maintain personal hygiene.

(b) Shall not engage in loud or boisterous behavior or use profane or abusive language.

Will show proper reverence during committal service.

(c) Shall not eat or drink beverages except water or non-alcoholic drinks while in the work area or in site of committal shelter during a service. Use of intoxicating beverages and/or drugs is strictly prohibited.

(d) Contractor personnel shall not lean, sit or stand on or against headstones or monuments. No tools, equipment or other items will be placed or leaned on headstones or monuments.

(e) SMOKING is not permitted within the Salisbury National Cemetery or satellite sites.

This restriction includes offices, restrooms, stairwells, entrances, exits or any other public area.

(f) It will be the discretion of the COR to implement immediate removal of Contractor and/or Contractor personnel from cemetery grounds if these standards are not adhered to during the performance of the contract. Contractor shall administer disciplinary action immediately as required to Contractor employees.

A.5.3 Supervision & Training

(a) The Contractor is responsible for maintaining satisfactory standards of personnel conduct and work performance and shall administer disciplinary action as required.

(b) The Contractor shall remove employees for cause, to include, but not limited to, misconduct in performance of duty under these specifications and/or conduct contrary to the Government's best interests.

(c) The Contractor shall also be responsible for training and safety precautions for contractor employees performing work under these specifications. OSHA standards shall be observed by the Contractor in all work performed.

(d) Appropriate safety equipment shall be furnished by the Contractor-to-contractor personnel and shall be used as prescribed by OSHA standards, including hard hats, safety shoes, safety glasses, and hearing protection devices.

(End of Statement of Work / Specifications)

Attachment A.1

Raleigh Tree List with Photos & Map

SITE # / PHOTO # REQUIREMENT

1 Remove one (1) tree and grind associated stump

Remove one (1) tree and grind associated stump

6 Remove limbs hanging over wall

7 Remove limb overhanging Ginkgo tree to trunk

8 ,9, 10 Remove all trees within 5’ of outside of wall along Pettis Pl and cut stumps flush with ground.

11 Remove bottom three limbs

Tree 1 Tree 2

Tree 3 Tree 4

Tree 5 Tree 6

Tree 7 Tree 8

Tree 9 Tree 10

Tree 11

Raleigh Map

Attachment A.2 Wilmington Tree List with Photos & Map

TREE NUMBER REQUIREMENT

1 Remove one (1) tree and grind associated stump

Prune 5’ clearance minimum around utility lines

Tree 1 Tree 2

Tree 3

Tree 4 - 6

Tree 7 Tree 8

Wilmington Map

ATTACHMENT B

PRICE SCHEDULE

The schedule price for each CLIN should be all-inclusive, including all supervision, labor (IAW attached wage determination), equipment, materials, and supplies. Pricing shall be FOB Destination and in accordance with the Statement of Work and Terms and Conditions of this Combined Synopsis/Solicitation.

Quoters shall enter the unit price and total amounts for each CLIN as indicated in the schedule below. In the event the Quoter did not add the total estimated price correctly, the Government will utilize the unit price(s) to compute the correct total estimated price.

RALEIGH AND WILMINGTON

NATIONAL CEMETERIES

POP: 90 days

CLIN Description Qty. Unit Unit Cost Total Cost

0001 Pruning of three (3) trees at Raleigh National Cemetery 1 JB $ ________ $ __________

0002 Removal of five (5) trees, including stump grinding, at Raleigh National Cemetery 1 JB $_________ $___________

0003 Removal of all trees within 5 feet of the outside of the wall and cutting stumps level with ground.

Raleigh National Cemetery

1 JB $_________ $___________

0004 Prune 5' clearance around utility lines on three

(3) trees at Wilmington National Cemetery. 1 JB $_________ $___________

0005 Remove five (5) trees, including stump grinding, at Wilmington National Cemetery. 1 JB $_________ $____________

(End of Price Schedule)

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