Attachment_1_PWS_Nakamura_Grounds_FY17__Final.pdf

Exterior Ground Maintenance Performance Work Statement – Nakamura Grounds.

SECTION C – DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

C.1 DEFINITIONS

C.1.0 GENERAL PROGRAM

The requirements in this specification shall be in accordance with all Federal, State, county and city laws, codes, and ordinances and shall follow the more stringent of them. In addition to compliance with these laws, the Contractor shall follow all applicable standard industry practices including, but not limited to, the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) and NIBS.

C.1.0.0 Above Standard Services Above Standard Services are services not covered in the monthly price of the contract. Contractor prices include all applicable labor, materials, supplies, training/certifications, equipment (except as otherwise provided), supervision, and management.

C.1.0.1 Acceptance The term constitutes acknowledgment that the supplies or services required in the contact conform to applicable contract quality and quantity requirements.

C.1.0.2 Approval ‘Approval’ means the Government has reviewed the submittals, deliverables, or administrative documents [e.g., insurance certificates, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), etc.], and has determined that the documents conform to contract requirements. Government approval shall not relieve the Contractor of responsibility for complying with Federal, State, and local laws and regulations.

C.1.0.3 Building A reference to ‘facility’ and ‘site’ is interchangeable with ‘building.’ A man-made structure or edifice which services are performed within or on the exterior of the formation and is intended to support or shelter any use or continuous occupancy.

C.1.0.4 Cleanable Square Feet This is calculated by taking the Gross Square Feet minus walls (approx.1.5% of gross square feet) minus non-cleanable areas such as electrical closets, closets, mechanical rooms, storage rooms, raised floor computer rooms, etc.

C.1.0.5 Contracting Officer (CO) The CO has the responsibility for the administration of this contract. The CO alone, without delegation, is authorized to take action on behalf of the Government to amend, modify or deviate from the contract terms, conditions, requirements, specifications, details and/or delivery schedules. However, the CO may delegate certain other responsibilities to authorized Government representatives.

C.1.0.6 Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) The COR shall be appointed by letter from the CO. The CO use of COR’s as the primary Government representatives for the administration of the contract. COR’s shall have proper training and experience in inspecting contracts, but do not have the authority to modify the contract.

C.1.0.7 Contractor Reference to ‘Contractor’ throughout the SOW even for those references to subcontracted type tasks shall mean the responsibility of the contract service provider.

C.1.0.8 Custodial

A reference to ‘custodial’ is interchangeable with ‘janitorial’. Custodial and related services can include cleaning, window washing, trash removal, recycling, landscaping, and maintaining a building or area.

C.1.0.9 Environmentally Sustainable These are products or services that have a lesser or reduced effect on human health and the environment when compared with competing products or services that serve the same purpose. This comparison may consider raw materials acquisition, production, manufacturing, product, chemicals, packaging, distribution, reuse, operation, maintenance, or disposal of the product or service. Refer to Section C.17 ‘Federal Requirements’ for a list of environmentally sustainable attributes and certifying entities.

C.1.0.10 Federal Holidays

Federal holidays are New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day, President’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans’ Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. When Federal Holidays fall on weekends, a weekday is typically designated as the holiday.

C.1.0.11 Federally Equipped Food Service

This is a facility in Federal Government space where the Government procures and maintains the inventory of food service storage, preparation, cooking and hot and cold holding equipment.

C.1.0.12 Guiding Principles for Sustainable Existing Buildings A practice of using processes that is environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's life-cycle.

The goal is to minimize and offset consumption of energy, water, and other resources and to eliminate all waste and pollution from building operations and activities. The result is to reduce the environmental impact of the Federal Government, which will expand and complement the building design economy, utility, durability, and comfort. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sustainability.

The common objective is to reduce the overall impact of the built environment on human health and the natural environment by:

-Improving energy efficiency and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

-Reducing water consumption intensity.

-Acquiring green products and services.

-Implementing pollution prevention measures, including reduction or elimination of the use of toxic and hazardous chemicals and materials.

-Implementing cost-effective waste prevention and recycling programs.

-Increasing diversion of solid/trash waste.

C.1.0.13 GSA Green Purchasing Program (GPP) The GPP which includes the Green Purchasing Plan specifies requirements to promote the purchase of environmentally sustainable products and services.

C.1.0.14 Green Cleaning Green Cleaning is a planned and organized approach to cleaning specifically designed to protect building occupant s’ and workers’ health, while at the same time reducing environmental impacts.

C.1.0.15 LEED-EB

The rating system encourages owners and operators of existing buildings to implement sustainable practices and reduce the environmental impacts of their buildings, while addressing the major aspects of ongoing building operations.

C.1.0.16 Modification Modification is a bilateral or unilateral change in the terms of a contract.

C.1.0.17 Ordering Official Ordering Officials are appointed by letter from the CO. Ordering Officials shall be the Government’s representative for the ordering of supplies and services.

C.1.0.18 Performance Based Service Contracting This is a procurement strategy that seeks to issue technical requirements that set forth outcomes for performance instead of specific requirements on how to perform the service. This strategy shifts the risk of performance to the Contractor by allowing the Contractor to design the methods of achieving desired results as defined by the performance quality standards established by the Government.

C.1.0.19 Product Preference Products that are identified as environmentally sustainable shall be selected over those which do not carry such designations. The following factors to consider when selecting products include: environmental performance, cost performance, bio-based, recycled content, biodegradability, technical performance, and availability.

C.1.0.20 Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) The QASP is the Government’s surveillance method for monitoring and evaluating the Contractor's performance under a Performance Based Statement of Work (PBSOW).

C.1.0.21 Quality Control Program (QCP) The Quality Control Program is a system for identifying and correcting deficiencies in the quality of services before the level of performance becomes unacceptable. Preparation of this document is the responsibility of the Contractor.

C.1.0.22 Service Calls Service calls are considered standard service requirements during normal business hours, such as nonrecurring requests for pickup of outside liter due to a special function, broken sprinkler causing damage, spills, replenishing restroom supplies,etc.

C.1.0.23 Standard Services A standard service is defined as all services that are included in the monthly price or are defined in the contract document.

Prices are to include all applicable labor, materials, supplies, training/certifications, equipment (except as otherwise provided), supervision, and management.

C.1.0.24 Stewardship This is the responsibility for managing, conducting or supervising the quality, state or condition of a commercial or institutional building.

C.2 OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE

This contract is for Grounds Maintenance and related services with a Performance-Based Statement of Work

(PBSOW) for Nakamura Federal Courthouse 1010 Fifth Avenue, Suite 107, Seattle WA 98104.

As a performance-based contract, the requirements are stated in terms of desired results with associated quality standards.

C.2.0 THE CONTRACTOR SHALL

Furnish all personnel, labor, equipment, materials, tools, supplies, supervision, management, training/certifications, and services, except as may be expressly set forth as Government furnished, and otherwise accomplish all actions necessary to or incident to, perform and provide the work efforts described in the contract.

Ensure that all contract employees are properly trained, licensed and/or certified to operate necessary building systems or equipment for which licensed and/or certified personnel are required by Federal, State, or local laws; codes, or ordinances.

Be responsible to make the management and operational decisions to meet the quality performance standards required under this contract.

Use innovation, technology and other means and methods to develop and perform the most efficient Maintenance services for the building.

Implement an effective Quality Control Plan (QCP).

Implement an effective service call system that results in prompt, professional, and courteous resolution of tenant concerns.

Keep the CO or their designee informed of current status of the work being performed, provide work schedules and provide other pertinent information needed by the CO or their designee.

Reduce the environmental impacts of work performed under this contract by using, to the maximum extent, environmentally sound practices, processes, and products.

Provide training/certifications for their employees that stress stewardship in cleaning practices i.e., the use, disposal and recycling of cleaning chemicals; and dispensing equipment and packaging. Current information on stewardship, training, educational materials and other issues can be found in ASTM E1971-05 or at the ASTM web site. Information on these items is also available on the web site: Stewardship for the Cleaning of Commercial and Institutional Buildings (www.astm.org) and ISSA’s web site (www.issa.com).

C.2.1 GROUNDS MAINTENANCE HOURS

Contract work shall be accomplished during normal business days from 06:00am-4:30pm. Monday through Friday

Additional service tasks which may be accomplished during normal and non-normal business days including holidays will be preapproved by the COR.

C.2.2 BUILDING INFORMATION DATA SHEET ESTIMATES

The figures contained in the Building Information Data Sheet are estimates. It is the Contractor's responsibility to notify the CO or their designee if it is believed that the information provided is incorrect. Building Information Data Sheets Estimates are located on Exhibit 1.

C.3 GREEN CLEANING

The Contractor is required to conduct grounds maintenance and related services in a manner as to utilize industry best practices and guiding principles to minimize the Government’s Environmental Footprint. This requires annual reporting of non-bio-based, bio-based, sustainable, and green products and materials.

The policy of GSA is to bring most, but not all, of its owned buildings into conformity with the most current and Government-accepted version of LEED for Existing Buildings (LEED-EB) current rating system by the U.S. Green Building Council (www.usgbc.org). Only in those instances where GSA is pursuing LEED-EB certification will additional LEED-EB scope requirements be added to this specification as specified in Section H.8 ‘LEED-EB.’

C.4 GREEN PURCHASING PLAN

C.4.0 KEY SUSTAINABLE PRODUCT (KSP) STANDARDS

The Contractor shall use green cleaning products, processes and equipment, and shall demonstrate such capability by submitting a green cleaning plan, in accordance with Section C.18 ‘Contractor Submittals/Deliverables Chart’, to the CO or their designee that describes methods, materials, and equipment used under the contract. Green cleaning is a planned and organized approach to cleaning that is designed to protect the occupants and workers' health and reduce the impact on human health and the environment.

The Contractor shall use safe and environmentally friendly products as referenced throughout this specification. Green cleaning products and processes include, but are not limited to bio-based products, products containing recycled content, environmentally preferable products and services, and otherwise environmentally friendly products and services that minimize the use of energy, water, and other resources. Chemical concentrates that require dilutions are preferable compared to ready-to-use products and should be used whenever possible. Dilution control equipment should be employed to ensure correct dilutions of concentrates and to protect workers from exposure to concentrated chemicals.

Green cleaning products and processes shall be complaint with the Guiding Principles for Sustainable Existing Buildings.

For categories of items that are EPA-designated (e.g. Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines [CPG]) and USDA designated in the BioPreferred Program (visit http://www.biopreferred.gov/), and all other factors (such as price, performance, and availability) being equal, the Contractor shall selected the CPG item. For other purchases, unless the Contractor receives an exemption from the Contracting Officer, the Contractor shall select USDA designated products over products with other sustainable attributes. Products designated under Federal sustainable product programs – USDA BioPreferred, EPA CPG, EPA Design for the Environment, and Department of Energy's EnergyStar and FEMP -can be found on www.sftool.gov. Sustainable products designated under third-party programs include but are not limited to Green Seal™ and Environmental Choice. Examples of green cleaning products that are available with environmental designations are found in Section J, Exhibit 9. This list is not all inclusive. For those categories of product not recognized by one of the aforementioned standard’s, preference shall be given to products meeting the California Code of Regulations maximum allowable Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) levels for the appropriate cleaning product category(California Air Resource Board/California Code of Regulations (CCR), Tile 17 CCR Section 94509 – (Topic cited;

Standards for consumer products at www.calregs.com).

The Contractor shall also follow all applicable standard industry practices including, but not limited to those published by the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS), American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM), Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI), and applicable standards of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

C.4.1 EXEMPTIONS

If Maintenance products that meet the criteria above are (1) not reasonably available within a reasonable period of time;

(2) fail to meet the performance standards set forth in the specification or fail to meet the reasonable performance standards of GSA; or (3) are available only at an unreasonable price, only then can the custodial Contractor use other types of products. In these cases the Contractor shall continue to use, to the extent possible, the safest and most environmentally friendly products. Exemptions can be granted to the Contractor only by the CO or their designee.

Use of KSP standards is mandatory for all contracts and task orders. The KSP’s in this section are also located at https://sftool.gov/green-products/0/building-finishes_cleaning-products The Contractor shall specify the brand name and product that shall be used to meet each applicable KSP standard below. The Contractor shall provide the required data submittals (See Section J, Exhibit 9) to the CO or their designee prior to the start of each contract year. The CO’s designee shall verify that the products submitted are compliant with these KSPs. The Contractor shall use standards listed in the Green Procurement Compilation for other products not listed below.

C.4.2 PROOF OF COMPLIANCE: The Contractor must, at all times during the performance of this contract, maintain a cut sheet or other documentation of compliance with product purchasing activities as stated within this specification to include Section J, Exhibits 6, 7, and 9. The Contractor shall provide copies of such documentation to the CO or their designee upon request.

C.5 STANDARD SERVICES

C.5.1 INTERIOR SERVICES – Reserved

C.5.2 EXTERIOR SERVICES

The Contractor shall provide exterior standard services for the work requested within this contract Performance work statement.

C.5.2.0 PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

The Contractor shall provide all resources, labor, tools, equipment, transportation, hauling away, disposal, training, supplies, materials, and oversight to ensure that quality and performance standards are successfully achieved. The Contractor shall be required to maintain a safe work environment at all times for its employees and the public. A safe operation is expected while performing tree and grounds maintenance services specifically.

C.5.2.1 Lawn/grass:

On a daily basis, the lawn will be maintained as required to keep it pest free, green (fertilized), free of moss (moss control). Lawn shall be re-seeded as required to maintain full greenness year round and using only the same strain/species of grass seed currently being grown. Moss is to be killed, controlled and removed by raking and thatching.

Areas where moss is removed shall be re-seeded as required immediately following moss removal and using industry practices. Fertilizer shall be applied as required to maintain uniform greenness of the lawn. Weeds, crab grass, grass and invasive plants are to be removed immediately to maintain quality of turf.

C.5.2.2 GROUND COVER:

(Ivy, creeping vines and plants) shall be maintained at a natural ground level and uniform height as to prevent the growth into trees, structural crevices, walk-ways, pathways, handrails, structures and generally within the designated growing areas and planters. Suitable fertilizer shall be used to maintain the health of all ground cover.

C.5.2.3 TREE AND SHRUBS

Tree pruning shall reduce the density of live branches towards developing the natural branching structure. Pruning shall result in an even distribution of branches on individual limbs and throughout the crown, to provide free air circulation through the remaining limbs and branches. Not more than 25 percent of the crown should be removed annually.

Tree maintenance shall be performed only by arborists or arborist trainees who, through related training, on-the-job experience, or both, are familiar with the practices and hazards of arboriculture and the equipment used in such operations. This standard shall not take precedence over arboricultural safe work practices. Operations shall comply with applicable Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, ANSI Z133.1, as well as State and local regulations.

Climbing spurs shall not be used when climbing and pruning trees. Tree branches shall be removed in a manner not to cause damage to other parts of the tree, other plants, or property. Branches too large to support with one hand shall be precut to avoid splitting of the wood or tearing of the bark. Where necessary, ropes or other equipment shall be used to lower large branches or portions of branches to the ground.

Maintenance: Tree supports shall be kept in good condition, functioning at all times and be removed when no longer needed. All trees and shrubs shall be fully protected. Tree stakes, tree ties, and guy wire shall be of materials that are comparable to those existing on site, and shall be replaced or repaired by the Contractor as needed. Supports or braces are to be repositioned as often as necessary to prevent damage to the tree or shrub trunk. Sand pans can be used for trees and shrubs to protect the plant trunk from the mower, and help to avoid over watering. Keep shrubs and trees trimmed to present an attractive appearance.

Trimming: To promote optimum efficiency and safety for all foot and vehicular traffic, trees and shrubs shall be kept trimmed to clear all roads, drives, and walking areas. Any limbs and branches touching or brushing buildings, fences, or other structures are also to be trimmed to provide clearance and free air circulation around the plant.

Pruning: Trees and shrubs shall be pruned by the Contractor to remove dead or diseased foliage or branches to help control or direct growth, increase quality, and to add structural strength to the trees and shrubs.

C.5.2.3 HISTORICAL TREES:

Historical Trees will be maintained free of pests and with dead or dying limbs removed per industry standards and as necessary to maintain the health and growth of the trees. Fertilizer suitable for the species and size of the tree shall be added as recommended for the species. The removal of dead and/or dying limbs will be coordinated with the COR and only be accomplished by a certified tree arborist. Trees in distress (dying) shall be brought to the attention of the COR immediately. The COR may require and authorize the Contractor to hire a tree expert to evaluate and provide recommendations for the trees as an additional service under the Contract.

C.5.2.4 Grounds:

All grounds shall be kept raked and free of debris to insure a clean, debris free daily appearance. Once a year in the late spring, new fertile top soil shall be added to plant beds and turned under around all plants to keep the plants healthy and thriving. A layer of new bark chips is to be added on top of the newly added top soil and to all flower bed and shrub areas with plants.

Shrubs and plants shall be kept pruned to a uniform height for the species and cleared of dead limbs and debris. All litter fall, plant litter, leaf litter, tree litter, soil litter or duff will be cleaned immediately and as required after blooms have passed in order to maintain a daily groomed appearance. All plants are to receive regular recommended fertilizing for species plants or shrubs.

The Contractor shall report dead or dying plants and shrubs to the COR immediately. All dead plants are to be removed the same or next business day and a suitable replacement of the same species or COR approved alternative plant in the place within 5 business days. Replacement plants will be approved by the COR in advance and billed as an additional service.

Any plant, shrub, tree or lawn that is damaged or dies as the result of Contractor negligence (lack of water, over watering, over fertilizing, under fertilizing, over pruning) shall be the sole responsibility of the Contractor to replace at no cost to the Government.

The removal of trash and debris shall be accomplished by the Contractor as required to maintain a litter-free appearance of the grounds on a daily basis. All trash removal shall be accomplished prior to the building opening to the public at (7:00 AM). The area of removal shall be all of the grounds within the side-walk boundary and the sidewalk areas around the perimeter of the entire building to the street.

As required to maintain daily appearances, all perimeter sidewalks, pedestrian walkways, hard surfaces, entry landings, driveways shall be maintained and kept free of debris, dirt and foreign matter.

Included in the requirements of the Contract is Pest control. Exterior pest control shall include but, not limited to mice, rats, tunneling rodents, aphids, insects and bugs that may cause damage to the turf, plants, foliage and trees shall be controlled as a necessary to maintain daily appearances of the grounds or that may foster the spread of disease. Ground holes and tunnels will be back filled with dirt and re-seeded where necessary. Pest control shall not be environmentally harmful to non-threatening species such as squirrels, birds and helpful insects.

C.5.2.5 Pressure washing and cleaning of all Courthouse exterior grounds surfaces: ( Bi-annual)/(spring and fall) Pressure washing and cleaning of all Courthouse exterior grounds surfaces, including but, not limited to walk-ways, concrete abutments, building perimeter sidewalks, entry steps and driveways shall be accomplished by the Contractor with additional cleanings provided as additional services when requested by the COR. Surfaces shall be cleaned and maintained for the type of material used in the construction (marble, concrete, precast). Cleaning shall be accomplished when it least impacts pedestrians and persons entering the building during normal business hours

C.5.2.6 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED TREES AND PLANTS (PLANTED IN GROUND OR PLANTERS)

Government furnished trees and plants shall be planted in the ground or in planters as approved by the CO or their designee.

C.5.3 GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

The Contractor shall perform grounds maintenance as standard services within this contract specification. Contractor shall use recovered organic materials for fertilizer whenever possible.

C.5.3.0 LANDSCAPE EROSION MANAGEMENT

The Contractor shall employ environmentally sustainable, low-impact strategies such as temporary and permanent seeding, mulching, earth dikes, silt fencing, sediment traps and sediment basins to correct existing erosion such as typically found as the result of foot traffic killing the vegetation, steep slopes where sheet flow from storm water exceeds existing vegetation holding power, or point storm water outflow that exceeds the holding power of the vegetation covering the soil.

C.5.3.1 GROUND MAINTENANCE SERVICES

General: Maintain all plants, trees, shrubs, ground covers, and lawns in a manner that prolongs life and sustains a healthy appearance. The Contractor shall seek to prevent pollution by, among other things, reducing fertilizer and pesticide use to protect the environment, using integrated pest management techniques, recycling green/landscape waste, and minimizing runoff. Grounds maintenance services in the standard services shall benefit the environment and generate cost savings to the Federal Government by preserving and protecting the native plants and wildlife habitats entrusted to us.

The Contractor shall use approaches that preserve and protect native plants and wildlife that is entrusted to the Government, and that support habitats for pollinators, including honey bees, native bees, birds, bats, and butterflies.

C.5.4.2 COMPOSTING

To reduce the amount of material being disposed of in landfills, the Contractor is required to compost, to the greatest extent possible, yard waste generated by the Contractor's operations. The Contractor shall not compost material on-site unless authorized by the CO or their designee. The Contractor shall utilize an approved recycling or composting facility or compost the material at the Contractor's own facility. Where applicable, the Contractor shall work with on site cafeterias and wet stands to recover and compost all possible materials. The Contractor is responsible to pay for composting services for landscaping debris.

C.5.4.4 MULCHING

Contractor shall maintain existing mulch to promote healthy growth. All areas to be mulched shall be raked, debris removed, edges reestablished, and any excessive mulch buildup worked into existing soil or removed, at the discretion of the CO or their designee, prior to mulch application.

C.5.4.5 MOWING

Mulching mowers shall be used, except where not permitted by city ordinance (see building information sheet for restrictions). Grass clippings shall be cleared from walkways and roadways and blown onto the grass. As appropriate, grass clippings shall be left in place, composted, or mulched as coordinated by the CO or their designee.

C.5.4.6 LEAF AND NEEDLE REMOVAL

The Contractor shall remove leaves and needles to maintain a neat and clean appearance. The required appearance level is identified through pictures attached in the building information sheet. Leaves should be composted as appropriate. Storm drain openings on the premises shall be free of accumulated leaves and debris Care shall be taken to remove leaves in existing mulched areas to maintain a neat and clean appearance without substantial reduction in mulch depth or damage to herbaceous or woody plant material.

C.5.4.7 OVER SEEDING, DETHATCHMENT AND PLUGGING

C.5.4.8 FERTILIZATION

All lawns, trees, and ground cover shall be fertilized consistent with common local landscaping practices. Application by the Contractor shall employ the best practices to minimize chemical runoff. Fertilizer used shall be of a balanced type that supplies all nutrients required for providing sustainable growth and development. The fertilizer application rate for the trees will be determined by tree type, girth, and height. Prior to application, the Contractor shall schedule time of application with the CO or their designee.

C.5.4.9 FLOWERBEDS AND PLANTS

Flowerbeds are to be free from weeds and debris. All areas shall be maintained to promote healthy and sustained growth. Ground cover must present a neat appearance. Preference shall be given to the use of native perennials, with long bloom cycles and diverse flower colors, shapes, and sizes instead of annuals to provide and support habitats for pollinators, including honey bees, native bees, birds, bats, and butterflies.

C.5.4.10 PLANT REPLACEMENT

The Contractor shall be responsible for all costs associated with the replacement of all planted materials that have been damaged as a direct result of the Contractor’s lack of oversight, neglect, or lack of proper care and maintenance. The Contractor shall use replacement plants that are native to the area to help further reduce the use of irrigation water.

C.5.4.11 SOIL

Aeration: Soil shall be aerated (frequency is dependent on the type of soil and grass but no less than one aeration per year) by manual or mechanical methods of piercing the ground to provide an adequate air supply to the soil and promote sustained plant life.

Cultivation: Soil shall be cultivated to ensure the topsoil is loose for the purposes of gas exchange, water penetration, and soil aeration.

C.5.4.12 UNIMPROVED GROUNDS - Reserved (If requested will be ordered as additional services)

C.5.4.13 FENCE LINES - Reserved (If requested will be ordered as additional services)

C.5.4.14 WEEDS

Weeds and invasive plants in all areas of the grounds shall be removed and controlled as required using standard industry practices in order to maintain a weed-free daily appearance of the grounds.

C.5.4.15 IRRIGATION

Initial Deficiency Walk-Through: Within 10 days of the new contract start date, the Contractor and the COR shall conduct a walk-through inspection of the irrigation systems sprinkler heads and drip system (if applicable). All of the grounds irrigation system will be serviced and repaired as necessary to keep it in good operation and free of leaks and spraying in the proper direction insuring all plants, lawn, shrubs and ground cover is kept well-watered. Broken sprinkler lines or any failed lines, connectors, sprinkler heads, drip parts, valves, timers and other miscellaneous parts shall be replaced immediately to maintain the integrity of the system on a daily basis. Watering schedules, seasonal start-up and blow down of the system will be accomplished by the Contractor and discussed/ coordinated with GSA Property Manager/COR.

Winterizing (blowing the system down) and spring charging of the system is required under this contract. Coordination with GSA maintenance person to access valves and timers is a requirement of the contract.

C.5.4.16 WATERING

Watering: Effective watering of the landscape, plants and trees requires a coordinated effort. The Grounds Contractor has specific responsibilities for the irrigation of the plants, trees, shrubs and landscape. The Grounds Contractor is responsible for maintaining the entire irrigation system in good working order and repair coupled with coordinating the watering duration and schedule with the COR. The Grounds Contractor shall ensure that the watering/irrigation systems automatic timers and rain/freeze sensors continuously work in an efficient manner. They shall also use a drip system, soaker hose, or another water-saving irrigation system device where appropriate. The Grounds Contractor is responsible for coordinating the duration and watering schedule with the COR, adjusting the sprinkler heads so that only plants, trees, shrubs or landscape is being watered.

All watering cycles shall be conducted at times that minimize evaporation or cause an inconvenience to the building occupants and visitors. Watering shall also be performed to minimize run-off into hardscape, drains and sewers.

Entrances, exits and sidewalks shall not be a slip hazard during the arrival and departure of occupants and visitors due to improper watering. During periods of water restrictions, watering guidelines by the local water district shall apply and the Grounds Contractor with coordinate compliance with the COR. The Grounds Contractor shall not be responsible for the replacement of landscaping materials that die as a result of a lack of proper access to water during these periods of water restrictions by municipalities.

The Grounds Contractor shall be responsible to notify the COR immediately, in writing, in the event of operational malfunctions, breakages, or failures to the irrigation system which may affect the Contractor's ability to provide proper irrigation to building’s landscaping. Failure to make timely notification to the CO or their designee shall result in the Contractor replacing damaged landscape, plants, trees or shrubs.

Hand Watering: When mechanical irrigation is not available or is malfunctioning, the Grounds Contractor shall use alternative hand watering methods, such as gator bags, or equivalents to ensure, promote, and maintain healthy growth.

Hand watering shall be performed in an efficient manner to minimize waste and minimize run-off into drains and sewers.

Hand watering in a short term of 30 days or less and included in the price of the contract. Periods of longer than 30 days will require additional payment as negotiated by the CO.

C.5.4.17 CLEANING, ADJUSTING SPRINKLER HEADS OR DRIP IRRIGATION SYSTEM.

The Grounds Contractor shall adjust and clean all above ground sprinkler heads to provide effective, efficient watering for all exterior landscape, tree, plant or shrub areas. When watering lawns, the Contractor must make sure that the sprinklers and drip heads are clean and adjusted so that the water ejects evenly and covers all lawn areas and shrubs. The Contractor must ensure irrigated water does not spray on to paved areas, walkways or run-off into drains and sewers.

The Grounds Contractor shall pay for any damage to the irrigation system due to their neglect. The Grounds Contractor shall be responsible for all costs incurred to repair and test the system after the repair has been completed. Repairs shall be performed by qualified personnel selected by the Grounds Contractor and approved by the COR. All repairs shall be performed using current industry practices for the system in place at this facility.

The Grounds Contractor shall be responsible to notify the Government in the event of operational malfunctions, breakages, or failures to the irrigation system, which affects the Grounds Contractor's ability to provide proper irrigation to building’s landscaping. Failure to make timely notification to the CO or their designee shall result in the Grounds

Contractor replacing damaged landscaping materials.

C.5.4.18 INTERGRATED PESTS MANAGEMENT

The Contractor shall utilize the Integrated Pest Management Plan in C.12.5 for controlling pests and disease to ensure that the landscapes, trees, and shrubs are free of disease and pest infestation.

C.6 ABOVE STANDARD ADDITIONAL SERVICES (all the items in C.6.1-C.6.4 are pre-priced additional services in part B (additional services) of the contract) C.6 shall be ordered through RWA.

The Contractor shall provide any exterior above standard services to fulfill the Government’s intermittent need for work.

These services are in addition to the services specified as a standard service and normally ordered through the additional services (Section B) of the contract.

C.6.1 PRESSURE WASHING AND STEAM CLEANING

Grounds Maintenance: The Contractor shall remove all dirt, debris, residue, gum, grease, and tar from the exterior areas of the building(s) with the approval of the CO or their designee. Clean-up shall be done in an environmentally sound manner to minimize the amount of waste washed into the storm sewers or onto the grounds.

C6.2 PLANTS AND SCHRUBS MATERIAL COSTS

Costs associated with individual plants costs for Ivy or Rhodes to be priced in schedule of CLNS per plant type.

C.7 COMMUNICATION PLAN

The Contractor shall prepare and provide to the CO or their designee a communication plan, detailing how the Contractor plans on using technology (two-way digital communication) to communicate with GSA to receive and respond to service calls, emergencies, status of projects, etc. The plan shall be submitted as part of the bid package for the Government’s review and approval.

C.7.2 Service Calls

A method or procedure will be in place to properly respond to service calls as required by operation methods of sprinklers or any grounds maintenance requirement.

C.8 PROTECTION AND DAMAGE

The Contractor shall make reasonable efforts to assist the Government to prevent hazardous conditions and property damage. To the extent that relevant conditions or activities are noted but are not associated with the Contractor’s scope, the Contractor shall promptly report such conditions or activities to the CO or their designee, or to security personnel.

The Contractor shall protect Government’s property, buildings, materials, equipment, supplies, records and data that are within the Contractor’s control against unauthorized access, loss or damage.

The Contractor shall establish a system for on-site work force personnel to report potentially hazardous conditions in the building to the CO or their designee or other designated Government representatives, regardless of whether the condition is within the Contractor’s responsibility.

The Contractor and Contractor’s employees and subcontractors shall comply with the General Services Administration, Rules and Regulations Governing Public Buildings and Grounds (as posted in the building), and shall promptly report violations by employees, or as otherwise observed, to the CO or their designee, or security personnel.

C.9 SOLID WASTE/TRASH/RECYCLING MANAGEMENT

A solid waste/trash reduction and recycling management program, which is part of providing standard services, includes identifying and properly segregating all recyclable materials, composting materials, and Universal Wastes.

The Contractor shall not collect hazardous materials unless specifically contracted to recycle them. Typical prohibited wastes include but are not limited to fluorescent light bulbs, thermostats, thermometers, most chemicals, and batteries (nickel-cadmium and small, sealed lead acid batteries in electronic equipment, mobile phones, portable computers, and emergency lighting). In addition, electronic equipment such as computers and printers shall not be discarded in the trash containers. The Contractor shall notify the CO or their designee of any prohibited or unauthorized items observed in the trash receptacles.

C.9.1 SOLID WASTE/TRASH AUDITS- Reserved - (If requested will be ordered as additional services)

C.9.1.0 AUDIT EXTENT OF WORK- Reserved- (If requested will be ordered as additional services)

C.9.1.1 SOLID WASTE, TRASH REMOVAL AND DISPOSAL

All solid waste/trash collected as a requirement of this contract shall be removed from the premises and transported to a solid waste/trash disposal facility that has been certified by the appropriate state agency responsible for solid waste/trash management or by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The Grounds Contractor shall provide solid waste/trash removal and disposal services as described herein.

The Contractor shall collect and transport all solid waste/trash and debris off site as the daily collection methods preferred method of disposal. Greens or recyclable materials are to be removed in the same method. Holding areas, if required for short durations of solid waste/trash accumulation shall be identified by the CO or their designee prior to the beginning of the contract and throughout the duration of the contract. Communication of requirement is part of the QCP plan, which is agreed method of conduct.

The Contractor shall provide a sufficient number of waste removal containers to accommodate all trash generated between pick-up dates. The CO or their designee shall approve all container styles, types, and storage locations prior to placement. The Contractor shall be responsible for the delivery, maintenance, repair, cleanliness, labeling, and removal of storage containers and equipment throughout the contract period. The containers must be kept free of holes, pests, grease, oils, and odors, etc. The Contractor will report any pest infestation in or around the containers to the CO or their designee. All Contractor-supplied equipment and materials shall remain the property of the Contractor during and subsequent to the contract period.

The overflow of materials from containers and dumpsters shall be picked up from the ground and floor area used to collect and consolidate the materials. The Contractor shall remove all hydraulic fluids and oil spillages caused either by the collection vehicles, or released from containers at the designated centralized collection site (loading dock, etc.). Spill residue and clean-up materials shall be disposed of in accordance with the EPA, and State and local regulatory agency requirements.

C.9.1.2 SOLID WASTE/TRASH RECORDS AND REPORTS

Reporting requirements are defined in Section C.10 ‘Environmental Reporting’.

C.9.1.3 PICK-UPS ON CALL

Additional or special pick-ups of solid waste/trash may be required on an irregular basis. Pick-ups shall be accomplished within 24 hours of notification by the CO or their designee. Payment for these pick-ups shall be based on a price per pick-up.

C.9.2 RECYCLING

It is the intent of the Government to keep the maximum amount of materials from the landfills through aggressive recycling. To the extent practicable, both the Government and Contractors shall pursue Government and Contractor revenue sharing opportunities.

C.9.2.0 EXTENT OF WORK

The Contractor shall remove all hydraulic fluid and/or oil spillage caused either by the collection vehicles, or released from containers at the designated centralized collection site (loading dock, etc.). Sorbent use for cleanup shall contain post-consumer recycle content minimum as required. The minimum depends on the type of sorbent used: see the EPA/CGP website for details. Spill residue and clean-up materials shall be disposed of in accordance with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and State and local regulatory requirements.

Unless specifically contracted to recycle items or material identified by the EPA and State and local regulatory agencies as hazardous waste, hazardous materials, or Universal Waste, the Contractor shall not collect these items. Typical prohibited wastes include but are not limited to fluorescent light bulbs, thermostats, thermometers, most chemicals, and batteries. Electronic equipment, such as computers shall, not be discarded in the recycle bins. The Contractor shall notify the CO or their designee of any prohibited or unauthorized items observed in the trash or recycling receptacles.

C.9.2.1 RECYCLABLE MATERIALS DISPOSITION

The Contractor shall ensure that all recyclable materials are recycled and not placed in landfills and incinerators. The CO or their designee may direct the Contractor to participate in joint efforts with State, city, and local governments regarding recycling.

C.9.2.2 RECYCLABLES

Collection and Pickups: The Contractor shall ensure that recyclables are collected and placed in the designated holding areas on a schedule that will maximize the quantity of materials removed from the premises as scheduled. Additional collections of recyclable materials may be required on an irregular basis and will be coordinated with the CO or their designee.

C.10 ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTING

The Contractor shall provide all necessary information required in this Section to comply with environmental and green purchasing reporting requirements, and agency sustainability goals in this specification.

The Contractor shall submit to the CO or their designee the following reports.

C.10.0 RECYCLING AND WASTE REPORTS

Quarterly Recycling Report: The Contractor shall submit Recycling Report (See Section J, Exhibit 8) listing the types, weights, and costs or revenues. Include in the report are single stream recycling, commingled recycling, and composting.

Reports shall be submitted NO LATER THAN o January 15 o April 15 o July 15 o October 15

Waste Hauling Reports: The Contractor shall submit a Waste Hauling Report (See Section J, Exhibit 8) showing the weight of trash hauled and the associated trash hauling costs.

The report shall be submitted NO LATER THAN o January 15 o April 15 o July 15 o October 15

C.10.1 REPORT CALCULATIONS

The recycling and waste hauling reports above shall contain sufficient data to calculate waste diversion and waste removal costs. When actual weights are not known, the Contractor shall use EPA’s Standard Volume-to-Weight Conversion Factors. Deductions shall be made and reported for volumes that are not filled to capacity (i.e., half full, 3/4 full, etc.) and conversions adjusted accordingly.

C.10.2 GREEN PURCHASE REPORTS

The Contractor shall submit information on green purchasing practices specific to the performance of this contract.

Records showing the monthly cost of green cleaning products and materials purchased shall be provided to the USDA and the CO or their designee by the Contractor so that this report can be submitted by the CO or their designee as required by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), USDA, and EO 13514. Reportable information and formats are provided in Section J, Exhibits 6 and 7 for the following:

Bio-based: The Contractor shall provide a list of USDA-designated bio-based products purchased October 1-September 30, during the previous fiscal year. Information will include the types and dollars spent on these products. The Contractor shall submit the report in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Clause 52.223-2 no later than October 31 of each year during contract performance and at the end of contract performance. The reports shall be submitted to the USDA designated location and a copy to the following e-mail address PBSbiobasedreporting@gsa.gov.

Non bio-based: The Contractor shall submit a report of all non-bio-based products to include: Green Seal, DfE, CPG, and Environmental Choice (low VOC, Non-Ozone Depleting), as well as non-green (Hazardous/Toxic) products to the CO or their designee no later than October 31 of each year during contract performance and at the end of contract performance.

Report shall include the cost of cleaning products and materials purchased under this contract.

C.10.3 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT REPORT

The Contractor shall provide to the CO or their designee with a list of chemicals and their purchase prices that are used to control pests on the exterior of the building.

C.10.4 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

The Contractor shall maintain documentation to support all the above reported activities. Information may include receipts or other records related to pick-up dates, weights, and associated fee schedules. Records and receipts obtained shall be made available to the CO or their designee upon request.

C.10.5 REPORTING FORMATS

Where possible, the Contractor shall submit reports in electronic form. The Contractor’s reports shall be printed double-sided on paper containing a minimum of 30 percent post-consumer recycled content.

C.11 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT

The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Plan is a part of the standard services provided by GSA, which consists of a preventive maintenance process. The plan coordinates many different programs to reduce sources of pests on a long-term basis for both the interior and exterior areas of a building. The Pest Control requirement is specified in 7 U.S.C.

136r-1 7 USC § 136r–1 - Integrated Pest Management | LII / Legal Information Institute . The Contractor shall have a plan that employs practices and techniques, as they relate to cleaning, trash, and materials handling, that reduce the sources of food and water, harborage, and access routes used by pests in and around the building.

C.11.0 PREVENTIVE PEST MAINTENANCE

The Contractor shall implement a preventive maintenance program that identifies and corrects conditions that contribute to pest infestation. Some of the most effective EXAMPLES, include but are not limited to:

-Self-contained compactors rather than dumpsters or stationary dumpsters for storing solid waste/trash awaiting pickup, wherever possible.

-Pressure washing of trash rooms, loading docks, and food preparation facilities. The Contractor shall ensure that run-off into drains and sewers are minimized when using pressure washing devices.

-Food preparation and storage areas remain clean.

-Dedicated, tightly covered receptacles for food waste in indoor areas with chronic pest problems.

-Replacement of dense ground cover in landscapes with chronic rodent problems.

-Employ techniques that may include, but are not limited to, keeping containers closed, removal of debris, etc.

C.11.1 INITIAL PEST ASSESSMENT

A certified pesticide applicator or licensed IPM Contractor shall conduct a thorough, initial assessment of the exterior spaces and…