Attach_1_PWS_Grounds_Maintenance.docx

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

FOR

GROUNDS MAINTENANCE SERVICES

Ramstein AB 02 December 2014

GROUNDS MAINTENANCE PWS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES

The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, tools, supervision, and other items and services necessary to ensure that grounds maintenance is performed in the Kaiserslautern Military Community (KMC) area consisting of Ramstein Air Base, Vogelweh Admin & Housing Area, Rod & Gun Club, Kapaun Annex, Einsiedlerhof Annex, Landstuhl Annex, Kaiserslautern Cold Storage including T-37 & T-41 Storage Facilities, Bann Communications Site, Pirmasens - Husterhöhe Communications Site, in a manner that will promote the growth of healthy grass, trees, shrubs, and plants and present a clean, neat, and professional appearance. The contractor’s performance will mainly be assessed/rated using the performance thresholds established in the Services Summary It is at the contractor’s discretion to determine the levels of frequencies to attain a level of service at the best value. The evaluation of results will be based on Contracting Officer Representative (COR) performance assessment, tenant satisfaction, and customer complaints. Final results of the evaluations will be the determining factor for the success or failure of this contract. The contractor shall comply with applicable federal, regional, state, local laws and commercial standards.

The Government may reduce or increase the frequency of specific services based on the Air Force Common Output Level Standards (AF COLS) set by Headquarters Air Force. The contractor shall perform services and invoice the Government according to the AF COLS as specified by the Contracting Officer (CO). Refer to paragraph 4.15 for more information. The contractor will be notified of the AF COLS level by the CO.

The contractor shall report ALL contractor labor hours (including subcontractor labor hours) required for performance of services provided under this contract via a secure data collection site. The contractor is required to completely fill in all required data fields at http://www.ecmra.mil. Reporting inputs will be for the labor executed during the period of performance for each Government fiscal year (FY), which runs 1 October through 30 September. While inputs may be reported any time during the FY, all data shall be reported no later than 31 October of each calendar year. Contractors may direct questions to the Contracting Manpower Reporting Application (CMRA) help desk.

Uses and Safeguarding of Information: Information from the secure web site is considered to be proprietary in nature when the contract number and contractor identity are associated with the direct labor hours and direct labor dollars. At no time will any data be released to the public with the contractor name and contract number associated with the data.

User Manuals: Data for Air Force service requirements must be input at the Air Force CMRA link. However, user manuals for government personnel and contractors are available at the Army CMRA link at http://www.ecmra.mil.

1.1. MAINTAIN IMPROVED GROUNDS

Improved grounds are identified in Appendices A and B. Improved grounds areas and services change when AF COLS levels change.

1.1.1. Mow. The contractor shall mow all improved grounds to look well-manicured, with a neat and professional appearance at all times. Grass height will be maintained in accordance with the current AF COLS level, ensuring turf is uniform in appearance, free of skips, gaps, rutting, or scalping. The contractor shall maintain swamped areas when site condition permits safe performance. The contractor is required to pick up debris, natural and manmade, prior to mowing any area. The contractor shall remove or mulch grass clippings when visible after mowing, before leaving work area. The contractor shall dispose of all mowing/trimming debris at the base compost facility. The use of off-site locations, other than the base compost facility, to dispose of clippings is not permitted. The contractor shall use warning signs on and off base, when performing services along roads. The contractor shall coordinate mowing and blocking of parking lots with appropriate facility managers, if necessary. A list of facility managers will be provided by 786 CES after contract award.

1.1.1.1. Interior Fence Lines. The contractor shall maintain grounds so that vegetation height matches surrounding grass areas. The contractor shall remove all vegetation that grows in the fence mesh or fabric. This includes small trees, hedges, and brush up to ten (10) centimeters in diameter. The contractor shall identify trees, hedges, and brush over ten (10) centimeters in diameter to the COR. The COR will coordinate with the Forstmeister through Installation Management (86 CES/CEIE) prior to contractor performance. Written approval from the Forstmeister will be provided as an attachment to each applicable Task Order. This service applies to improved, semi-improved and unimproved areas.

1.1.1.2. Edge. The contractor shall edge sidewalks, driveways, street edges, curbs, and other hard surfaced areas located within the improved grounds so that grass height matches surrounding area grasses. Grass, vegetation and weeds shall be cut back no more than 1.25cm from the surface edged, maintaining an even contour with the edged surface, uniform in appearance and free of scalping, rutting, and uneven or rough cutting.

1.1.1.3. Trim. The contractor, after mowing, shall trim grass and weeds around trees, shrubs, buildings, inside of all grassy ditch lines, fences, poles, fire hydrants, parking lots, bumper blocks, boulders and other fixed and temporary obstacles/objects on improved grounds areas. Trimming height shall match surrounding area grass height. All areas shall be trimmed concurrent with mowing. The contractor shall remove or mulch grass clippings when visible before leaving work area.

1.1.2. Remove Debris/Police Grounds. The contractor shall perform general litter patrol in all areas of improved grounds within Military Family Housing Area, to include walkways, ditches, hedgerows, flowerbeds, perimeter fence lines, all trash receptacles, identified in Appendices A and B. This includes removal/disposal of natural debris, (tree limbs, dry brush, rodent habitats, deceased animals, etc.), and man-made debris, to maintain a neat and professional appearance.

1.1.2.1. Disposal Operations. The contractor shall dispose of all collected non-bio debris, except deceased animals (to include trash collected from receptacles) in refuse collection dumpsters located at designated Recycling Centers on Ramstein and Vogelweh. The contractor shall handover deceased animals to Pest Management on Ramstein at Bldg 505. The contractor shall contain all debris during transportation to prevent leaking, spilling, or blowing. The locations of the Recycling Centers are located on Ramstein, at Bldg. 5146 and Vogelweh at Bldg. 2820.

1.1.2.2. Recycling. The contractor shall recycle all collected material for the purposes of waste reduction and cost reduction. The contractor shall sort all non-bio debris, as practical, and place it into the appropriate dumpsters at the Recycle Centers. The contractor shall not place any debris in any dumpster not located at a designated Recycle Center. The contractor shall dispose of all biodegradable material, such as tree limbs, leaves, and grass clippings, at the Ramstein Compost Facility. The location of the Ramstein Compost Facility is identified on the Ramstein Air Base map identified in Appendix B. The use of off-site locations will be at no additional cost to the government.

1.1.2.3. Trash Receptacles. The contractor shall inspect all Military Family Housing trash receptacles daily identified in Appendix A and Appendix B, and empty each receptacle upon reaching 50% capacity while performing debris removal/policing grounds. The contractor shall supply black trash bags for all receptacles. The contractor shall notify the COR of any problem areas requiring additional trash receptacles.

1.1.3. Leaf Removal. The contractor shall remove leaves in improved grounds to maintain a neat and professional appearance. The contractor shall dispose of all debris at the base compost facility. The use of off-site locations, other than the base compost facility, to dispose of clippings and biodegradable debris is not permitted.

1.1.4. Prune Shrubs, Hedges and Other Plants. The contractor shall prune/trim shrubs and other plants to maintain their natural growth characteristics to enhance the beauty and health of the plant. Hedges shall be maintained to their natural mature height and shape. Shrubs, plants, hedges, and ground cover/vines shall be pruned/trimmed 7.5cm away from buildings, fences, curbing, sidewalks, and other fixed obstacles. All ground cover and plants shall be kept within the bed borders. All plants around landscape and ground lights shall be pruned /trimmed to allow light usage for its intended purpose. Shrubs and hedges located on street corners, curb easements, etc. shall be pruned/trimmed to keep from obstructing view of oncoming traffic. Areas beneath shrubs and hedges shall be kept free (clean) of all grass, weeds, vegetation, and debris. Volunteer tree growth seedlings shall be removed at no additional cost to the government. The contractor shall remove and dispose of all clippings upon completion of work. No trimming or cutting is allowed from March to July (bird breeding time). The contractor shall only dispose of trimmings at the base compost facility. Trimmings shall not be discarded in forested or wooded areas.

1.1.5. Pavement Weed Removal. The contractor shall remove weeds from pavements within landscaping, to include all joints and cracks in sidewalks and curbs including edge between street and curbstone, located along all streets within improved areas. The contractor shall control weeds appropriate for the area to maintain a professional appearance.

1.1.6. Maintain Vegetative Beds, Inert Beds and Related Areas. The contractor shall maintain vegetative beds, inert beds, and related areas as identified in Appendices A and B to present a neat and professional appearance. Maintenance activities may include but are not limited to fertilizing, watering, weeding, one time per year mulching, Prune Shrubs, Hedges and Other Plants (description in Paragraph 1.1.4.) and removing damaged plants and shrubs.

1.1.7. Exterior Perimeter Fence Lines. Unless a regular monthly maintenance is performed on the inside fence (Improved and Semi-Improved Areas), the contractor shall maintain inside vegetation extending two (2) meters, and outside perimeter fence extending one (1) meter as identified in Appendices A and B. The contractor shall remove all vegetation that grows in the fence mesh or fabric. This includes small trees, hedges, and brush up to ten (10) centimeters in diameter. Contractor shall identify trees, hedges, and brush over ten (10) centimeters in diameter to the COR. The COR shall coordinate with the Forstmeister through Installation Management (86 CES/CEIE) prior to contractor performance. Written approval from the Forstmeister shall be provided as an attachment to each applicable Task Order. This service will apply except in designated areas outside of fence where 86CES/CEIA has determined the land does not belong to US/German government. This service applies to improved, semi-improved and unimproved areas.

1.2. MAINTAIN SEMI-IMPROVED GROUNDS

Semi-improved grounds are identified in Appendices A and B.

1.2.1. Mow. The contractor shall maintain grass height in accordance with the current AF COLS level in all semi-improved grounds. Maintain a uniform appearance in all areas. Where possible, maintain adjacent areas at or near the same grass heights. The contractor shall maintain swamped areas when site condition permits safe performance.

1.2.1.1. Trim. The contractor, after mowing, shall trim grass and weeds around trees, shrubs, buildings, inside of all grassy ditch lines, fences, poles, fire hydrants, parking lots, bumper blocks, boulders and other fixed and temporary obstacles/objects on semi-improved grounds areas. Trimming height shall match surrounding area grass height. All areas shall be trimmed concurrent with mowing. The contractor shall remove or mulch grass clippings when visible before leaving work area. All clippings removed shall be taken to the base compost facility.

1.3. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Special Requirements are those items provided by the contractor based on an ‘as needed’ criteria. When such items are needed, a Task Order will be issued by the CO.

1.3.1. Trees. The contractor shall prune or trim all trees as necessary. The contractor shall be responsible for identifying all trees that require pruning or trimming. Pruning or trimming shall be accomplished in accordance with applicable federal, regional, state, and local laws and commercial standards. Pruning shall be required to lift, remove, and/or cutback branches that conflict with normal traffic/safety. In addition, the contractor shall prune or trim trees that pose public safety hazards. Minimum safety clearances are: 4.5m over streets, (ensuring that all walkways are free and clear from limb obstruction) 3.5m over driveways, 2.5m over walk areas, 1.2m over buildings, and 30cm from buildings. Trees that pose threats to structures/buildings shall be removed. Topping and de-horning are not permitted. Trimming or pruning of trees that touch or hang over energized utility poles/power lines is the responsibility of the contractor. Minimum clearance from high tension lines and secondary lines (i.e. electric service drops, telephone, and cable TV) shall be in accordance with German regulation. Contractor shall be responsible for removing all debris generated from trimming or pruning operations. This shall be completed within five (5) workdays from notification. No trimming or cutting is allowed from March through July (bird breeding season). The contractor shall only dispose of trimmings at the base compost facility. Trimmings shall not be discarded in forested or wooded areas.

1.3.1.1. Tree Standards. The contractor shall perform all tree work in accordance with contract specifications and applicable federal, regional, state, local laws and commercial standards, unless otherwise directed by the CO. This includes the following list of German and American standards:

· ANSI A300 - Standard Practices for Tree Care Operations including referenced Combined Federal Regulations (Utility Pruning and Emergency Service Restoration)

· ANSI A300 (Part 1) – Tree Pruning

· ANSI A300 (Part 3) – Tree Support Systems (Cabling, Bracing, and Guying)

· ANSI Z60.1 – American Standards for Nursery Stock

· ANSI Z133.1 – Safety Requirements for Tree Care Operations

· DIN 18918, August 2002, Vegetationstechnik im Landschaftsbau

· FLL ( Forschungsgesellschaft Landschaftsentwicklung Landschaftsbau ) Baumkontrollrichtlinie

1.3.1.2. Tree and Stump Removal. The contractor shall perform stump and perimeter roots removal by completely cutting, grinding and removing all growth to a minimum of 20cm below grade. This does not include tree cutting. Stumps shall be ground within one (1) workday of the tree removal date. Stump-grinding debris shall be removed the same day grinding is performed. In areas where a lawn sprinkler system exists, the contractor shall backfill with topsoil, and lay sod to match the existing ground grade. In areas where no lawn sprinkler system exists, the contractor shall backfill with topsoil and compact to match existing grades. Trees identified for removal shall be considered within the following categories, Large, Medium, Small and Sapling, as based on their diameter. The diameter of the tree shall be determined by measuring 1m above the ground. Trees with multiple trunks shall be measured as follows: all trunk diameters shall be measured. The largest trunk diameter shall be recorded. Each remaining trunk diameter shall be halved. All values will then be added together to obtain the final tree diameter. Tree removal will be coordinated with the Forstmeister through 86 CES/CEIE prior to contractor performance. Written approval from the Forstmeister will be provided as an attachment to each applicable Task Order. The Forstmeister will also make the determination if he wants to take the tree log(s) into his possession. In that case, the log(s) shall be cut to 5m pieces and stored at a location that is reachable by a hauling truck.

· Large Trees: diameters 90 cm and above, remove within 10 work days from the order date.

· Medium Trees: diameters between 60 cm-90 cm, remove within 10 work days from the order date.

· Small Trees: diameters between 8 cm-60 cm, remove within 5 work days from the order date.

· Saplings: diameters 8 cm and smaller, remove within 2 work days from the order date.

1.3.2. Emergency and Special Event Services. Perform emergency or special event grounds maintenance service. Upon notification of an emergency, the contract manager shall respond within one (1) hour to meet with the CO and government evaluator and initiate emergency services. Upon receiving direction by the CO, contractor personnel shall begin emergency work within two hours. Oral work orders for emergency services to minimize damages or mitigate hazardous conditions will be confirmed with written work orders. The CO will notify the contractor as soon as a special event requirement is known, but no less than 24 hours prior to the event.

1.3.3. Mowing Specified Areas. The COR will determine specified areas that cannot be mowed with the regular equipment. Specified areas can be fenced-in areas, areas with freshly installed sod, newly re-seeded areas, slopes or areas that need special attention. All areas shall look healthy and well maintained at all times. Contractor shall perform vegetation control to maintain all grass areas, including flowering and non-flowering weeds that grow within the grass areas. Grass height will be maintained in accordance with the current AF COLS level, ensuring turf is uniform in appearance, free of skips, gaps, rutting, or scalping.

1.3.4. Topsoil. The contractor shall coordinate with the COR to determine the amount of topsoil necessary for the given area. After coordination the contractor shall provide sifted topsoil and apply evenly across the given area.

1.3.5. Aerate, Add Sand and Drag. The contractor shall aerate required sports fields to maintain the field in a healthy state. Contractor shall spread the amount of sand necessary over aerated ground. After sand application, the aeration plugs and sand shall be dragged into holes.

1.3.6. Aerate Soil. The contractor shall aerate soil as required to maintain the grounds in a healthy state.

1.3.7. Over-Seeding. The contractor shall perform over-seeding at the manufacturer’s recommended rate using Regelsaatgutmischung (RSM) 2.4 mixture seed.

1.3.8. Re-Seeding. The contractor shall re-seed using the minimum standard of RSM 2.4 mixture seed. After re-seeding, the contractor shall perform maintenance to include a onetime irrigation of seeded areas necessary to promote growth and present a green, healthy surface in accordance with standard commercial practices and manufacturer’s recommendations.

1.3.9. Hydro-Seeding. The contractor shall determine the amount of hydro-seeding necessary to maintain a uniform healthy appearance during the growing season. This will include aerating the hydro-seeded area sufficiently to allow grass to take root.

1.3.10. Installation of Sod. The contractor shall install sod and perform maintenance, to include a onetime irrigation of sod necessary to promote growth and present a green healthy surface, in accordance with standard commercial practices and/or manufacturer’s recommendations. Sod type shall match existing grass within adjacent areas.

1.3.11. Fertilization. The contractor shall have a pH adjustment and fertilizer application program. Fertilizer, lime and other soil amendments will be applied to bring soil condition to the suitable condition for the vegetation being treated. It is recommended to use an organic-mineral fertilizer with immediate and long term effect to have a balanced nutrient ratio for a healthy growth.

1.3.12. Mulch. The contractor shall coordinate with the COR to determine the amount of mulch necessary for the given area. After coordination, the contractor shall apply equal thickness in a layer approx. 5-10cm. Tree bark shall be 20-60mm.

1.3.13. Clearing/Grubbing of Vegetation. The contractor shall perform clearing and grubbing consisting of removing all vegetation in a specified area leaving nothing other than evenly groomed bare earth.

1.3.14. Planting Trees, Shrubs, and Vegetative Beds. The contractor shall perform planting of available trees, available shrubs, and vegetative beds to include but not limited to: removal and disposal of trees, shrubs, or vegetative beds being replaced; and performance of maintenance after planting to include a onetime irrigation, pruning, and insect and disease prevention to promote survivability. Plants are not included.

1.3.15. Sports Field Maintenance. The contractor shall perform sports field maintenance. Maintenance activities may include but are not limited to, add topsoil, aerate, add sand and drag, aerate, over-seeding, re-seeding, installation of sod, fertilizing and irrigation (as described in the paragraphs 1.3.4, 1.3.5., 1.3.6., 1.3.7., 1.3.8., 1.3.10., 1.3.11., 1.3.19.).

1.3.16. Converting Landscaped Areas with Grass Seed. The contractor shall perform converting landscaped areas to grassy areas. Converting activities may include but are not limited to clearing and grubbing, adding topsoil, fertilizing, seed grass and a onetime irrigation. (As described in the paragraphs 1.3.4., 1.3.8., 1.3.11., 1.3.13., 1.3.19.).

1.3.17. Converting Landscaped Areas with Installation of Sod. The contractor shall perform converting landscaped areas to grassy area. Converting activities may include but are not limited to clearing and grubbing, add topsoil, fertilizing; install sod and a onetime irrigation. (as described in the paragraphs 1.3.4., 1.3.10., 1.3.11., 1.3.13., 1.3.19.).

1.3.18. Lawn Renovation. The contractor shall renovate lawns in improved grounds. Renovate deteriorated lawn area to match surrounding areas.

1.3.19. Irrigation. The contractor shall irrigate improved grounds to maintain the health of the turf ensuring no ponding of water, excessive runoff, etc. This includes lawns, plants, flowers, landscaped areas, and all areas requiring manual watering (see Appendices A and B). Contractor shall position hoses, etc., for manual watering and then remove/store hoses, etc., between watering to ensure neat, clean appearance of areas. Water is available to the contractor. The water connection shall be provided by the contractor. The contractor is prohibited from connecting to any hydrant within the boundaries of the installation. Contractor shall practice water conservation measures whenever possible and shall position all watering systems to avoid overspray onto pavements, sidewalks, roadways, etc. Recommended water times are from 0600 hours until 0800 hours, and 1700 hours until 1800 hours or anytime that mitigates traffic congestion.

1.3.20. Maintain Surface Drainage Ditches. The contractor shall maintain surface drainage ditches to be free of shrubs, trees, silt and trash to prevent erosion and ensure continuous flow of water. Drainage ditches to be maintained are identified in Appendix A.

1.3.21. Maintain Unimproved Grounds. Unimproved grounds measurements/locations are identified in Appendices A and B. The contractor shall maintain grass and vegetation in unimproved grounds to prevent woody encroachment and shall mow Unimproved grounds established with ordered AF COLS in Appendices E and F.

1.3.22. Maintain Airfield, BASH Areas. The contractor shall maintain grass height and service as established with ordered AF COLS in Appendices E and F. Cutting of grass on airfield grounds shall be accomplished only after Airfield Management has approved scheduled times. Where possible, maintain adjacent areas at or near the same grass heights.

1.3.22.1. Trim. The contractor, after mowing, shall trim grass and weeds around trees, shrubs, buildings, inside of all grassy ditch lines, fences, poles, fire hydrants, parking lots, bumper blocks, boulders and other fixed and temporary obstacles/objects on improved grounds areas. Trimming height shall match surrounding area grass height. All areas shall be trimmed concurrent with mowing. The contractor shall remove or mulch grass clippings when visible before leaving work area and disposed at the base compost facility.

1.3.22.2. Airfield Coordination. The contractor shall coordinate all activities on the airfield by contacting Airfield Management. Work will be accomplished only after Airfield Management has approved scheduled times.

1.3.22.3. Flight-Line Drivers. Government provided training shall be completed prior to operating vehicles or mowers on the flight line. All employees working on airfield grounds shall be required to have an AF Form 483, Certificate of Competency (flight line driver’s license) with them at all times. Vehicles shall have a valid Privately Owned Vehicle (POV) pass issued by Airfield Management prior to operating on the flight line. No equipment will be left unattended while working in these areas. The contractor shall be responsible for insuring that all foreign objects and debris produced by grounds maintenance is cleared off of all taxiways, runways, and aircraft parking aprons before leaving the work area. The contractor shall comply with all guidance provided in the training when on or around the flightline.

1.3.22.4. Airfield Tower Communications. The contractor shall be radio-equipped to maintain constant two-way radio contact with the control tower and Airfield Management when operating near runways, overruns, and taxiways. The contractor shall maintain contact with the control tower when operating on or within 50 meters of the runway. The contractor shall provide all communication equipment required for this contract. The government will provide the transceiver frequency to the contractor. All equipment shall be Very High Frequency (VHF) type with a minimum five-mile range and shall have private line capability. The contractor shall be responsible for any changes to radio types that the base makes in the course of this contract, i.e. frequency changes. The contractor shall respond immediately to the directions of the Air Traffic Control tower personnel.

1.3.22.5. Airfield Light Fixtures. The contractor shall cut a 3 meter wide path, between 10cm and 15cm in height, around the perimeter of the airfield pavement to include trimming around runway and taxiway lights and other fixed obstacles and temporary obstacles/objects in accordance with improved grounds standards. This service also includes the requirement grass, vegetation and weeds shall not extend over the edge of concrete, pads, taxiways, runways, and paved or asphalt areas.

1.3.23. One Time Prune Shrubs, Hedges and Other Plants. The contractor shall prune/trim shrubs and other plants as needed in areas, where not regular pruning/trimming service is provided. The contractor shall prune/trim shrubs and other plants to maintain their natural growth characteristics to enhance the beauty and health of the plant. Hedges shall be maintained to their natural mature height and shape. All ground cover and plants shall be kept within the bed borders. The contractor shall remove and dispose of all clippings upon completion of work. The contractor shall only dispose of trimmings at the base compost facility.

2. SERVICES SUMMARY (SS). The contract service requirements are summarized in performance objectives that relate directly to mission critical items. The performance threshold briefly describes the minimally acceptable levels of service required for each requirement. The Services Summary (SS) and the contractor’s Quality Control Plan provide information on contract requirements, the expected level of contractor performance and the expected method of government validation and confirmation of services provided. These thresholds are critical to mission success. Procedures as set forth in the FAR 52.212-4 (a), Contract Terms and Conditions - Commercial Items, Inspection/Acceptance, will be used to remedy all deficiencies. During the first initial 30 days of the contract, two additional errors on each work shall be allowed in an effort to identify normal phase-in problems.

Threshold

SS-1

Maintain all Improved Grounds to present a neat and professional appearance IAW paragraph 1.1

a. Mow

b. Debris, Trash and Litter Policing

c. Leaf Removal

d. Prune Shrubs

e. Pavement weed removal

f. Maintain Vegetative Beds

g. Exterior Perimeter Lines

Within 1 day of notification Periodic Validation Customer Complaint

SS-2

Maintain all Semi-Improved Grounds to present a neat and professional appearance IAW paragraph 1.2

a. a. Mow Non-Airfield semi-improved areas

Re-performance Within 1 day of notification Periodic Validation Customer Complaint

SS-3

Special Requirements “as needed items” When such items are needed, a Task Order will be issued by the CO.

Re-performance Within 1 day of notification Periodic Validation Customer Complaint

SS-4

Quality Control Contractor’s Quality Control Plan (becomes a compliance document after award).

2.1. QUALITY CONTROL The contractor shall provide a written description of the quality control system to include identification of the commercial practices and procedures to be used. The contractor shall develop and implement procedures to identify, prevent, and ensure non-performance and continual repeat of defective service does not occur. A written Quality Control Plan shall be submitted to the CO/COR for review and feedback. The plan shall be submitted no later than the pre-performance conference. The plan shall specifically address the contractor’s strategy to provide quality workmanship, continual process improvement and for correcting deficiencies as required.

2.2. QUALITY ASSURANCE

The government will inspect and evaluate the contractor’s performance to ensure services are received in accordance with requirements set forth in this contract. The CO/COR will inspect by validating actual work performance, physically checking an attribute of the completed task, checking a management information report, investigating customer complaints, conferring with facility managers, or otherwise inspecting the task or its results to determine whether or not performance meets the standards contained in this PWS. The CO/COR may use the contractor’s work schedule or modified version thereof, to record validation results. Results of the validation then become the official Air Force record of the contractor’s performance. When a performance threshold has not been met or contractor performance has not been accomplished, the COR will initiate and provide the CO a Contract Action Report (CAR) for issuance to the contractor. The contractor shall respond to the Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) in accordance with (IAW) instructions provided and return it to the CO within 10 calendar days of receipt.

2.3. PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT

2.3.1. Periodic Validations. This method requires the COR to employ a “spot check” style of evaluation; contractor’s schedule may be used. Periodic validations will be conducted on a scheduled basis (daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annually) and may be adjusted, based on quality trends. Any unsatisfactory inspection (defect) result will be recorded, and the contractor shall re-perform the service after notification by the CO/COR. Failing to meet the performance threshold as outlined in the SS for any of these performance objectives in any one month period shall result in a warning or letter of concern from the CO. Failing to meet the performance threshold as outlined in the SS of these performance objectives in any combination for any two, or more consecutive or non-consecutive months during a contract period shall constitute an immediate Progress Meeting with the Multi-functional Team. All remedies shall be in accordance with the FAR 52.212-4 (a), Contract Terms and Conditions - Commercial Items, Inspection/Acceptance.

2.3.2. Customer Complaints. Customer complaints will be transmitted and handled via e-mail, telephone, or other means of communication. The COR personnel will maintain a log for all customer complaints indicating the date, time, name and telephone number of caller, problem, action taken by COR, and the solution/outcome. Validated customer complaints shall be re-performed by the contractor within 1 calendar day of notification or a mutually acceptable timeframe to the COR and customer. COR will re-inspect immediately after re-performance.

2.4. PERIODIC PROGRESS MEETINGS. The CO, COR Supervisor, COR other government personnel as appropriate, and the contractor shall periodically meet to discuss the contractor’s performance. The following issues shall be discussed, opportunities to improve the contract, any modifications required of the contract, unsatisfactory inspections and trends against each performance objective observed, positive performance and steps taken by the contractor to prevent unsatisfactory occurrences in the future. The contractor shall provide a summation of unsatisfactory inspections and customer complaints and provide insight into any identified trends. Should the contractor not concur with the minutes of the progress meetings, the contractor shall provide a written notification to the CO identifying areas of non-concurrence for resolution.

3. GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY AND SERVICES

3.1. FACILITIES

The Government will provide Exterior spaces identified below for contractor use in support of the requirements of this contract. The Exterior spaces are provided “as is.” Obtain CO approval in advance of making any changes to the Exterior spaces. Such changes will be at no cost to the Government unless otherwise approved by the CO. The contractor shall ensure Exterior spaces are maintained in a neat, clean and professional manner. The CO reserves the right to reallocate and relocate assigned Exterior spaces during the term of the Contract. Upon completion or termination of this Contract, or upon such reallocations or relocations, return Exterior spaces to the government in the same condition as received, except for fair wear and tear and approved modifications.

3.1.1. Floor Space. Contractor shall contact the COR concerning optional placement of an office container on the provided exterior space.

3.1.2. Exterior Space. Approximately 1000 square meters of exterior space is provided: 700 square meters on Ramstein AB near the recycling center and 300 square meters on Vogelweh AB near the CE storage yard. These areas will not be secured; however, the contractor may arrange to have temporary fencing erected around the contractor’s equipment. All erected structures and additions shall comply with the base Architectural Compatibility Guide. The contractor shall provide written notification to the CO 30 days before erecting any security or area marking fencing. The contractor shall coordinate an inspection with the COR prior to acceptance of the area and again prior to turning the area back over to the Government.

3.2. UTILITIES

The Government will furnish electricity, water, and sewage as necessary on Ramstein Air Base for accomplishment of work IAW with this contract.

3.2.1. Utility Conservations: The contractor shall adhere to all base level utility conservation practices or requirements. The contractor shall be responsible for operating under conditions that prevent waste of utilities.

3.3. MATERIALS

None Provided.

3.4. SECURITY, FIRE, AND MEDICAL SERVICES

The Government will provide police and fire protection. In the event of a medical emergency, base ambulance service for transporting an injured employee to a local hospital is available on a cost reimbursement basis.

3.5. TELEPHONE

The Government will only provide base and local commercial telephone service. Long distance service, if desired, shall be at the contractor’s expense.

3.6. SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL

The contractor shall use existing bulk containers to dispose of trash or solid waste generated from accomplishment of services detailed in this PWS. The contractor shall adhere to all base level recycling programs to include disposal of yard/tree waste in specified dumpster collection stations or at the recycling collection center on base. The CO/COR shall identify these specific dumpsters for yard/tree waste.

3.7. GREEN WASTE MATERIALS

The contractor shall remove all green wastes daily from the job site, and dispose of all debris at the base compost facility. The use of off-site locations, other than the base compost facility, to dispose of green waste is not permitted.

4.0. GENERAL INFORMATION

4.1. BACKGROUND

Some grass areas in the KMC are fenced in and can only be accessed by appointment through the COR. A list of the areas will be provided by 786 CES/CEOES upon contract award.

4.2. DAMAGES TO GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS, EQUIPMENT, OR VEGETATION

Damages to Government buildings, equipment, or vegetation are addressed in clause 52.237-2 – “Protection of Government Buildings, Equipment, and Vegetation”. Any damages shall be brought to the attention of the COR within 1 hour of occurrence. The contractor shall report such damage to the COR at 06371-47-6919.

4.2.1. Contractor Damage. The contractor shall pay for the repair or re-establishment of any areas or trees damaged by the contractor during performance of grounds maintenance operations, at no cost to the government. Repair/re-establishment of damaged areas shall meet or exceed the visual standards of the area prior to being damaged.

4.3. ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

In addition to all applicable German Federal, State and local environmental codes and regulations, the following specific guidance is provided:

4.3.1. Hazardous Materials. The CO will coordinate approval of all hazardous materials brought on-site by the contractor prior to use. The contractor shall obtain approval through 86 CES/CEIE. The contractor shall obtain approval IAW AFI 32-7086, paragraph 2.5.5. The CO has the right to prohibit the use of hazardous materials when deemed to be especially hazardous to human health and environment. In the event the CO does not approve a hazardous material for use, the CO may provide the contractor a list of suitable substitutes; however, the contractor shall retain responsibility for finding an acceptable substitute. The contractor shall take appropriate actions to comply with waste minimization and pollution prevention practices and policies.

4.3.1.1. Spill Control. The contractor shall maintain spill control material on hand at all times sufficient to contain a worst case scenario spill, both volume and hazard level. If the contractor spills or releases any hazardous substance, the contractor shall immediately report the incident to the COR. The contractor shall be liable for containment and environmental cleanup of the spill or release of such substance. Contractor shall provide information on all waste disposal IAW Consolidated Kaiserslautern Military Community (KMC) Plan 32-4013 Hazardous materials Emergency Response Plan dated 16 May 2008, which is located at building 572 on RAB, 0637147-7712 or DSN 480-7712, Kreislaufwirtschafts-und AbfallG, TA - Abfall und TA - Siedlungsabfall (Current Version), especially on hazardous waste being generated under this contract.

4.3.2. Pesticides. The contractor shall not use any pesticides/herbicides. The contractor is only allowed to use pesticides/herbicides after approval by 86 CES/CEIE (Submit list with intended uses via the CO at the pre-performance conference). Proof of specialist qualifications for the application of plant protection products shall be provided to the Government upon request. A certificate is mandatory (“Sachkundenachweis”). Plant protection products may only be used if they have been authorized by the “Bundesamt für Verbraucherschutz und Lebensmittelsicherheit / Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL). Pesticides may only be used in the fields of application specified in the authorization and in the instructions for use (“Anwendungsgebiet”), and only according to the directions for use specified in the authorization and stated in the instructions for use (“Anwendungsbestimmung”) (see German Plant Protection Act – “Pflanzenschutzgesetz” (PflSchG) Art. 6a(1)).

4.3.2.1. Products. Plant protection products may be applied in outdoor areas only if such land is used for agricultural, forestry or horticultural purposes (see PflSchG Art. 6(2). Responsible German authorities listed below may grant exceptions if the intended purpose is urgent and cannot be reasonably achieved in any other way and if the exception does not conflict with overriding public interests; particularly with regard to the protection of plant and animal species (PflSchG Art. 6(3). In the State of Rheinland-Pfalz responsible German authorities, who approve the application of pesticides at such areas are: Untere Landespflegebehoerde (Kreisverwaltung) and Aufsichts- und Dienstleistungsdirektion (ADD), Koblenz.

4.3.2.2. Permits. A permit is generally needed for the application of pesticides on traffic areas (streets, sidewalks, parking lots); therefore the contractor shall obtain approval from the CO prior to use in these areas. Normally the responsible German authority will not grant exceptions for the application of pesticides on streets, roads and sidewalks which are connected to the storm water drainage system.

4.3.2.3. Pesticides. The application of plant protection products containing Glyphosate / Glyphosate-Trimesium (e.g. “Roundup”) is prohibited in surfaced and unsurfaced areas (e.g. streets and sidewalks) where the pesticides can be discharged into storm water and sewer systems, drainage or surface waters, except if permit is granted by the responsible German authority. Pesticides such as Glyphosate (“Round-up”) shall not be used around sidewalks, streets, parking lots or any other high-visible areas for base beautification purposes.

Unwanted vegetation will only be treated when it is not located in a “water-sensitive area” (to be determined by 86 CES/CEIE) and when approval is given by German authorities. The Government will be responsible for coordinating with responsible German authorities to obtain approval prior using pesticides. Prior to using pesticides, the contractor shall provide an inventory of hazardous materials with the applicable Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) that will be used to perform the required services to the 86th CES/CEAN, Building 572 on RAB, 0637147-5086 or DSN 480-5086. In addition, use reasonable care to avoid releasing hazardous material or hazardous waste, which may cause environmental damage to government structures, public land, water, or other natural resources. If the contractor’s failure to use reasonable care causes damage to any of this property, the contractor shall replace or repair the damage at no expense to the Government as the CO directs. If the contractor fails or refuses to make such repair or replacement, the contractor shall be liable for the cost, which may be deducted from the contract price.

4.3.2.4. Pesticide Storage and Mixing.

Perform pesticide storage and mixing operations off base.

4.3.2.5. Monthly Reports. If using pesticides, the contractor shall submit a report to the CO/COR within 10 working days following each month listing all pesticide applications made. Include pesticide name, use concentration, amount applied, date, and detailed location of use. A DD Form 1532 will be provided on request to facilitate record keeping. The contractor is subject to inspection by Department of Defense (DoD) certified applicators/inspectors as well as State Department of Agriculture Pesticides Division or equivalent agency.

4.3.3. Hazardous Materials Inventory. The contractor shall maintain an up-to-date hazardous material inventory with copies of MSDS(s) for all materials used on the job site.

4.3.4. Hazardous Materials Management. The contractor shall remove all hazardous materials by the end of each workday. Contractor shall not conduct process treatments (e.g. paint thinner solvent recycling) on base.

4.3.5. Final Report. The contractor shall submit a final inventory, not later than ten working days following termination/completion of this contract, of all hazardous materials used since the last hazardous usage report to the CO/COR. The final inventory shall list all hazardous materials used, total amount of each used, and a description of the disposition of any remaining hazardous material.

4.3.6. Conformance with Environmental Management Systems. The contractor shall perform work under this contract consistent with the relevant environmental policy and objectives identified in the installation environmental management system (EMS) applicable for your contract. The contractor shall perform work in a manner that conserves water, energy and other resources to the maximum extent feasible and ensure minimum production of waste as possible, giving preference to recycling and reutilization opportunities. Furthermore, the contractor shall give preference to less toxic materials whenever available and still reliable for their work. In the event an environmental nonconformance or noncompliance of host nation and USAF environmental laws and regulations associated with the contracted services is identified, the contractor shall take corrective and/or preventative actions.