Draft Exhibit A SOW.pdf

Grounds Maintenance and Pest Control Services III Exhibit A Draft Statement of Work

Exhibit A - Page 1 of 27

EXHIBIT A

GROUNDS MAINTENANCE AND PEST-CONTROL SERVICES III (GMAPS III)

STATEMENT OF WORK (SOW)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXHIBIT A - DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATION/WORK STATEMENT 1

1.0 INTRODUCTION 5

1.1 Scope 5

1.2 Reserved 5

1.3 Location of Services 5

1.4 Hours of Operation 5

1.5 Definitions and Acronyms 6

1.6 Records and Reports 6

1.6.1 Reports 6

1.7 Grounds Maintenance Project Management and Administration 6

1.8 Environmental, Safety, and Health 7

1.9 Emergency Preparedness 7

1.10 Performance Evaluation and Surveillance 8

1.10.1 Performance Evaluation and Surveillance 7

1.10.2 Performance Evaluation Meetings 8

1.11 Reserved 8

1.12 Vehicle Management and Regulations 8

1.13 Uniforms 8

1.14 Badges 9

1.15 Contractor Personnel 9

1.15.1 Project Manager 9

1.15.1.1 Authority to Act 9

1.15.1.2 Availability 9

1.15.2 Personnel Training and Certification Requirements 9

2.0 GOVERNMENT SERVICES 10

2.1 Security and Fire Protection 10

2.2 Medical 10

2.3 Facilities 11

2.3.1 Facilities Management 11

2.4 Property/Equipment 11

2.4.1 Reserved 11

2.4.2 Information Technology (IT) 11

2.4.2.1 Government Provided Computer Workstations 11

2.4.2.2 Contractor Provided Computer Workstations 12

2.4.2.2.1 Contractor Computer Security Manager 12

Exhibit A - Page 2 of 27

2.4.2.2.2 Risk Assessment/Security Plans Support 12

2.5 Supplies 12

2.6 Fuel 12

3.0 GROUNDS MAINTENANCE 13

3.0.1 Area A: Improved Grounds (Includes Grounds Around B-47) 13

3.0.2 Area B: Semi-Improved Grounds 13

3.0.3 Area C: Unimproved Grounds & Prairie/Wildflower Restoration Areas 14

3.1 Inspect Grounds/Remove Debris 14

3.1.1 Areas A and B 14

3.1.2 Leaf removal 14

3.2 Irrigation and Watering 14

3.2.1 Trees 14

3.2.2 Area A 14

3.2.1.1 Landscaped Areas 14

3.2.3 Maintain Irrigation System 15

3.3 Mowing 15

3.3.1 Area A 15

3.3.2 Area B 15

3.3.3 Area C 15

3.3.4 Fire Lanes 16

3.3.5 Right-of-Way 16

3.4 Edging 16

3.4.1 Areas A and B 16

3.4.1.1 Landscaped Areas 16

3.5 Trimming 16

3.5.1 Areas A and B 17

3.5.1.1 Landscaped Areas 17

3.6 Pruning 17

3.6.1 Trees 17

3.6.1.1 Clearance 17

3.6.2 Shrubs 17

3.6.3 Ornamental Grasses 17

3.6.4 Vines & Groundcover 18

3.6.5 Iris & Umbrella Plant 18

3.7 Weed Control and Removal 18

3.7.1 Area A 18

3.7.1.1 Landscaped Areas 18

3.7.1.2 Biowall Area 18

3.7.2 Area C 18

3.8 Vegetation Removal and Replacement 18

3.8.1 Area A 19

Exhibit A - Page 3 of 27

3.8.1.1 Building 30 Demonstration Landscape 19

3.8.2 Area B 19

3.8.2.1 Maintain Fence Line 19

3.8.2.2 Ground Operations 19

3.8.3 Vegetation Damage by Contractor 19

3.9 Mulching 20

3.9.1 Trees 20

3.9.1.1 Application Around Tree 20

3.9.1.2 Raking Around Trees 20

3.9.1.3 Memorial Plaques 20

3.9.2 Area A 20

3.9.2.1 Landscaped Areas 20

3.10 Recycle Landscape Trimmings and Debris 20

3.10.1 Mulch 20

3.10.2 Composting 20

3.10.2.1 Method 21

3.10.2.2 Restrictions 21

3.10.2.3 Use 21

3.11 Fertilization 21

3.12 Pest Identification and Control 22

3.12.1 Area A 22

3.12.1.1 Landscaped Areas 22

3.12.2 Trees 22

3.12.3 Pesticide and Herbicide Handling 22

3.12.4 Chemical Usage Reports 23

3.13 Plant Beds and Flower Beds Maintenance 23

3.14 Pond Maintenance 23

3.14.1 Mall Pond Cleaning 24

3.15 Canal Maintenance 24

3.15.1 HL&P Canal 24

3.16 Ditch Maintenance 24

3.17 Greenroof Maintenance 24

3.17.1 Landscape Drip Irrigation System 25

3.17.2 Garden Roof Assembly 25

3.17.3 Fall Protection System 25

3.18 Miscellaneous Unscheduled Support Tasks 25

3.19 Maintain Ground Related Drawings 25

4.0 INDEFINITE DELIVERY/INDEFINITE QUANTITY (IDIQ) 26

4.1 Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) 26

4.2 Mosquito Control 26

4.3 Plant New Trees 26

Exhibit A - Page 4 of 27

4.4 Prairie Area Inspection 26

4.5 Lawn Fertilization and Weed Control 27

4.6 Plant Wildflowers and Native Grasses 27

Exhibit A - Page 5 of 27

1.0 INTRODUCTION

This Statement of Work (SOW) describes requirements for the Grounds Maintenance and Pest-control Services II contract.

The requirements of this contract are products and services in direct support of the entire Johnson Space Center (JSC).

1.1 Scope

The Contractor shall provide all resources to perform grounds maintenance services as identified within this Statement of Work (SOW) for the Johnson Space Center (JSC), Ellington Field (EFD), the Sonny Carter Training Facility (SCTF), and the JSC Barge Dock Facility in Houston, Texas, ensuring completion of all SOW requirements. Grounds Maintenance services consists of maintenance and care of lawn, trees, landscaped areas, ponds and turf irrigation systems, pest control, animal control services, miscellaneous grounds support services and Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) services as stated within this SOW. Contractor on-site management shall support various meetings as scheduled associated with grounds maintenance such annual meetings with the Wildlife Program and monthly tag up meetings.

1.2 Reserved

1.3 Location of Services

Within the context of this SOW, the term “JSC” shall be used interchangeably to refer to ground maintenance services that occur at the JSC main campus, EFD, SCTF, and JSC Barge Dock site locations, or any combination of these locations. Ellington Field is approximately 8 miles and SCTF is approximately 3 miles from the main JSC campus. The Barge Dock Facility is located on the shore of Clear Lake less than one half mile from JSC.

1.4 Hours of Operation

Continuous core hours of operation for JSC, EFD, and SCTF are from 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday excluding Federal holidays and Flex Fridays. The Contractor shall be available during that time to meet with Government personnel and to receive customer requests.

In case of an emergency or JSC center closure, the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) or Alternate COR will be available via phone or email for guidance. The Contractor shall identify its approach for receipt and scheduling of customer requests.

Approval of the Government COR is required, followed by the Contracting Officer’s approval if a project requires a task order to be issued , before customer requested work is performed. The exception is work that mitigates an emergency situation that threatens damage to persons or property.

Work in the Energy System Test Areas (ESTA) and fuel deliveries (Section 2.6) shall be scheduled during the core hours. From time to time, the Contractor shall be required to perform services

Exhibit A - Page 6 of 27 specified in this SOW outside the identified core hours to support unforeseen and special events.

All other work may be scheduled outside the core hours, at the Contractor’s discretion. For example, the Contractor may choose to schedule mowing on Saturdays or after hours to avoid peak business traffic during core hours. If the Contractor chooses to schedule work outside of core hours, Contractor supervision shall be provided commensurate to the work to be performed.

The Contractor shall schedule work to minimize interference with normal conduct of government business. The Contractor shall move tractors, mowers, and other similar equipment over JSC streets to minimize interference with automobile traffic, and the Contractor shall not impede the flow of traffic by routine transportation of equipment during peak traffic periods, which are from 7:30 to 9:00 am and 3:30 to 5:00 pm.

1.5 Definitions and Acronyms

Definitions are used throughout this contract and are identified in Attachments A. Acronyms and Abbreviations are used throughout this contract and are identified in Attachment B.

1.6 Records and Reports

The Contractor shall create and maintain records and reports to substantiate services have been accomplished, as specified in 1.6.1 below, and provide documentation to the COR when requested.

The Contractor shall submit proposed changes to required records and reports for consideration and approval by the COR and CO as per individual Data Requirements List, Attachment C and Data Requirements Description (DRD) requirements, Attachment D.

1.6.1 Reports

Report requirements are contained in individual DRDs in Attachment D. Due dates are specified for each separate report in the DRL, Attachment C. When the due date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday, the report is due by 9 a.m., Monday, or the business day following the holiday. Reports shall be submitted as specified in the Data Requirements List (DRL). The DRLs are referenced throughout this SOW.

1.7 Grounds Maintenance Project Management and Administration The Contractor shall conduct grounds maintenance project management and administration necessary to fulfill the requirements of this contract. The Contractor shall provide for the planning, organization, control, and reporting of all activities required by this contract.

The Contractor shall submit a Phase-in Plan in accordance with DRD 12. The Contractor shall develop, maintain, and implement a Government-approved Annual Grounds Maintenance Work Plan (DRD 01) which fully and optimally describes and integrates all parts identified within this SOW. This plan shall define the grounds maintenance schedule for a given contract year. The plan shall be a synopsis provided by the Contractor addressing all tasks to be performed within

Exhibit A - Page 7 of 27 the contract year in accordance with the requirements specified therein. The plan shall include IDIQ tasks identified and recommended by the Contractor to be implemented during that year.

The Contractor shall submit the Re-Procurement Data Package (DRD 11), one time, per the Contracting Officer’s direction. The Contractor shall submit the Total Compensation Plan per DRD 13, and the Notification of Potential Labor Dispute and Contingency Strike Plan per DRD 14.

1.8 Environmental, Safety, and Health

The contractor shall perform all tasks in support of institutional and spaceflight program objectives, in a manner that ensures the protection of personnel, property, equipment, and the environment.

1.8.1 Safety and Health Plan: To ensure compliance with pertinent NASA policies, requirements, federal, state, and local regulations for safety, health, environmental protection, and fire protection, the contractor will develop and implement a safety and health program per its NASA-approved safety and health plan (DRD-02). The JSC Safety and Health Requirements (JPR 1700.1) provides detailed requirements and instructions regarding safety and health procedures and policies at JSC and is incorporated by reference into all JSC contracts when performance is on site at a JSC facility. The JPR 1700.1 is available at: https://www.nasa.gov/johnson/jsc-safety-health-requirements. The contractor shall compile an inventory report of all hazardous materials used and accumulated onsite per DRD 03.

1.8.2 Environmental Compliance: The contractor shall follow the requirements established in the JSC Environmental Clause (52-223-94) and the JSC Environmental Procedural Requirements (JPR 8550), including waste management procedures and onsite use/storage prohibitions of certain chemicals (including Ammonium Nitrate), personnel training as described in paragraph

1.15.2 of this document and the compilation and submittal of applicable environmental reports outlined in DRD 06. The JPR 8550 is available at: https://cdms.nasa.gov/directive/library/JSC.

Note: Additional information about the JSC environmental programs are available at the JSC environmental website at: https://centerops.jsc.nasa.gov/je/#Outreach. The contractor shall contact the JSC Planning, Integration and Environmental Office by phone at (281) 483-6207 or by email at JSC-Environmental-Office@nasa.gov with any questions.

1.9 Emergency Preparedness

The Contractor shall develop, maintain, and implement an Emergency Preparedness Plan in accordance with the NASA-approved Safety and Health Plan (DRD 02), to ensure adequate emergency countermeasures are in place, in accordance with JSC’s Emergency Preparedness Plan. All chemical releases or spills (including pesticides, lubricants and fuels), explosions or fires shall be notified immediately, by calling extension x-33333 (281-483-2112). The Contractor shall notify the COR of all emergency incidents within 72 hours of discovery.

1.10 Performance Evaluation and Surveillance

https://www.nasa.gov/johnson/jsc-safety-health-requirements https://www.nasa.gov/johnson/jsc-safety-health-requirements https://www.nasa.gov/johnson/jsc-safety-health-requirements https://cdms.nasa.gov/directive/search https://cdms.nasa.gov/directive/library/JSC https://centerops.jsc.nasa.gov/je/#Outreach

Exhibit A - Page 8 of 27

1.10.1 Performance Evaluation and Surveillance

Performance evaluation and surveillance of the Contractor will be accomplished through data collected by observation of the Contractor’s performance through inspections, Weekly Activities Report, validated customer complaints, etc. The Contractor shall provide the Weekly Activity Report as specified in DRD 04 and provide information to the COR on customer requests received.

1.10.2 Performance Evaluation Meetings

The Project Manager shall meet quarterly with the COR or alternate to evaluate the Quarterly Self-Assessment Report (DRD 05). The Contractor may request additional meetings with the Contracting Officer (CO), COR, or alternate when the Contractor Project Manager believes such meetings are necessary.

1.11 Reserved

1.12 Vehicle Management and Regulations

The Contractor shall provide and maintain Contractor-owned or leased vehicles to meet the requirements of this contract. Any Contractor vehicle used in the performance of this contract shall have the company name prominently displayed on both sides of the vehicle. For the purposes of the requirements of this contract, a vehicle is defined as a car, sedan, or light duty truck such as a pickup truck. Bobcats, tractors, mowers, and other similar items are defined as equipment. When operating bobcats, tractors or mowers the contractor shall ensure they are properly maintained to avoid oil and fuel spills. Also, the contractors shall minimize causing damage to sanitary sewer and potable water lines; if damage occurs, the Emergency Operations Center (x-33333) and the facilities contract personnel shall be notified immediately.

The Contractor shall ensure employee’s private vehicles are not used in the performance of the requirements of the SOW. The Contractor shall use properly licensed, vehicles acceptable for use on all public highways to convey Contractor personnel, materials, and equipment used in the performance of this contract. The Contractor shall ensure all Contractor vehicles used in the performance of the SOW comply with JSC-27996, Vehicle Code. The Contractor shall ensure all persons operating a commercial motor vehicle have in their immediate possession a valid Commercial Driver’s License appropriate for the class of vehicle being driven.

1.13 Uniforms

All Contractor personnel shall wear a distinctive uniform. The Contractor shall furnish and maintain all uniforms necessary to perform work required under this contract. Uniform clothing shall be clean, suitable for the prevailing weather conditions, and display the name of the Contractor.

1.14 Badges

Exhibit A - Page 9 of 27

The Contractor shall ensure that all personnel wear their JSC badges while on-site. JSC badges will be provided by the Government after personnel screening and investigation is completed.

The screening requirements for non-U.S. Citizens require more time to process personnel before a badge is issued. See Contract Clause 52.204-92, NASA Security Program and Identification of Employees.

1.15 Contractor Personnel

1.15.1 Project Manager

The Contractor shall provide a Project Manager who shall be responsible for the performance of the work. The name of this person and an alternate or alternates who shall act for the Contractor when the Project Manager is absent shall be designated in writing to the CO and COR prior to the contract start date. For this contract, the Project Manager may also serve as the safety official and the Computer Security Manager if one is needed.

1.15.1.1 Authority to Act

The Project Manager or alternate shall have full authority to act for the Contractor on all contract matters relating to daily operation of this contract.

1.15.1.2 Availability

The project manager shall be available during core hours to meet on-site at JSC with government personnel (designated by the COR) to discuss problem areas. The Contractor shall provide telephone number(s) where contract management personnel can be reached during duty hours and for times other than duty hours.

1.15.2 Personnel Training and Certification Requirements

The Contractor shall establish and maintain training and certification plans designed to meet the requirements of this SOW to ensure the Contractor work force is trained and certified in the required field of specialization. The Contractor shall establish and maintain training records for all personnel including training manuals and documentation of certification and periodic recertification of personnel, and they are available at all times for COR review. All licenses and certifications shall be current and shall be kept current throughout the contract period. Training includes:

Available and required at employee start of work:

(1) Personnel operating motor vehicles shall possess a valid state driver’s license.

(2) Each of the Contractor’s personnel who apply pesticides shall have a current commercial state of Texas Pesticide Applicator’s license.

Government provided and may be taken when available:

(1) The Contractor shall ensure all personnel who perform work in the Energy Systems Test Area (ESTA) are properly trained and an ESTA area backdrop badge will be issued to

Exhibit A - Page 10 of 27 employees who complete the mandatory training, and the backdrop badge must be worn when performing work in an ESTA area.

(2) The Contractor shall ensure all personnel who mix or apply pesticides and herbicides have completed the appropriate JSC Hazardous Material Training. The Contractor shall compile an inventory report of all hazardous materials located on Government property (DRD 03).

(3) The Contractor shall ensure that all Contractor personnel at JSC with access to PC workstations have completed the annual IT Security Training in accordance with NPR 2810.1, Section 4.3.1.1, and Security of Information Technology. New employees who will require access to JSC IT resources shall take the Basic IT security training within 15 days from date of hire.

(4) The Contractor personnel shall meet the following JSC environmental compliance training requirements:

(a) Complete Environmental Responsibilities for JSC Employees Training (Course JSC-SA-ERJSCE) available online via SATERN; and

(b) Complete other applicable JSC environmental training courses (e.g. RCRA01), dictated by the JSC Environmental Training Matrix, available at:

https://www9.jsc.nasa.gov/ja/apps/restricted/env_training/index.cfm?FuseAction =Main.Start

(c) The initial JSC environmental compliance trainings shall be started during contract phase-in and completed no later than 45 days after contract start.

(d) In addition, the contractor shall complete environmental refresher trainings at the specific frequencies (e.g. annually).

Note: When access to SATERN or the JSC Environmental Compliance online courses is not readily available to contract personnel, the contractor shall coordinate a phase-to-phase class by contacting the JSC Environmental Info Line at JSC-Environmental- Office@nasa.gov or by phone at (281) 483-6207, no later than 3 weeks prior to the training due date.

2.0 GOVERNMENT SERVICES

2.1 Security and Fire Protection

The government will provide general site security and fire protection.

2.2 Medical

An on-site clinic is available at building 45 North during JSC core hours for Contractor use in the event of a minor emergency. JSC has a “clinic first” policy regarding injury and first aid cases. In the event of a severe emergency during hours of operation, JSC will respond and transport, if necessary, a contractor employee to one of the local hospitals. The emergency onsite phone number is (281) 483-3333.

https://www9.jsc.nasa.gov/ja/apps/restricted/env_training/index.cfm?FuseAction=Main.Start https://www9.jsc.nasa.gov/ja/apps/restricted/env_training/index.cfm?FuseAction=Main.Start mailto:JSC-Environmental-Office@nasa.gov mailto:JSC-Environmental-Office@nasa.gov

Exhibit A - Page 11 of 27

2.3 Facilities

Government-furnished facilities Buildings 42, 326 and 323 will be made available for Contractor use. The contractor will occupy space in rooms 110 and 111 in Building 323 as contract management offices. Building 42 is approximately 3,000 square feet, with no office space, and Building 326 is approximately 4,666 square feet, with the office space being moved to Building 323.

2.3.1 Facilities Management

The Contractor shall designate an Alternate Facility Manager (FM) for each facility which they occupy to ensure FM duties are performed in accordance with JSC Work Instruction JWI 8831.1B, Facility Manager Program. This individual will be required to attend FM training and refresher courses when needed. The Contractor shall coordinate their applicable Contractor operations with the NASA FM. The Contractor shall conduct quarterly safety inspections of all facilities they occupy.

The Contractor shall maintain physical security of all assigned facilities and shall establish and implement methods of ensuring all keys issued to Contractor personnel are not lost or misplaced and are not used by unauthorized persons.

The Contractor shall keep the work, office, and warehouse areas, including storage areas, free from accumulations of waste materials, and debris shall be packaged up and disposed of properly. The Contractor shall ensure all warehouse supplies are organized, neatly stacked, and secured. If the COR deems that the area is unsafe, the COR may instruct the Contractor to immediately stop work and return the area to a safe working environment.

2.4 Property/Equipment

The Contractor shall provide and maintain Contractor owned or leased property to meet the requirements of this contract.

2.4.1 Reserved

2.4.2 Information Technology (IT)

The Contractor shall comply with all applicable NASA and JSC Information IT Policy Directives or Requirements and the NPR 2810.1, Security of Information Technology and Information Systems.

2.4.2.1 Government Provided Computer Workstations

The Government will provide 2 on-site computer workstations and a printer. The workstations will have site standard software, including Microsoft Office, and will be maintained by NASA End-user Services & Technologies (NEST) contract.

2.4.2.2 Contractor Provided Computer Workstations

Exhibit A - Page 12 of 27

The Contractor may choose to provide additional workstations. Any additional workstations shall be the responsibility of the Contractor. The Contractor shall not bring to the Installation for use under this contract any property owned or leased by the Contractor, or other property that the Contractor is accountable for under any other Government contract, without the prior written approval of the CO and of JB3/installation Property.

The Contractor shall ensure that all Contractor provided IT systems used in the performance of this contract meet the requirements of NPR 2810.1, Security of Information and Information Systems and the NPD 2810.1, NASA Information Security Policy.

If the Contractor chooses to provide its own computer workstations, they shall appoint a Computer Security Manager (CSM) in writing to the COR. If the Contractor does not provide its own systems, a CSM and Information Technology Security Plan will not be necessary. The Contractor shall submit the IT Security Management Plan (Government Furnished Services) for its unclassified technology information resources (DRD 09).

2.4.2.2.1 Contractor Computer Security Manager

The Contractor CSM shall attend and participate in IT security meetings for the purpose of ensuring Contractor compliance with the JSC IT Security Program through the NASA SATERN Training System

2.4.2.2.2 Risk Assessment/Security Plans Support

The Contractor shall prepare, maintain, and implement an Information Technology Security Plan (DRD 09) that documents how the Contractor and Subcontractor personnel utilize, in a secure manner commensurate with sensitivity of the information involved, those Contractor supplied computer systems and software applications managed by others. The security plan shall be based on an assessment of risks and document the safeguards necessary to ensure sufficient electronic information availability, integrity, and confidentiality. The plan must be submitted to the Center Operations Directorate Computer Security Official (CSO).

2.5 Supplies

The Contractor shall provide all gasoline, motor oil, fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides necessary to complete the requirements as listed in the SOW.

2.6 Fuel

The Contractor shall provide all fuel and associated storage tanks as necessary to fulfill the requirements as listed in the SOW. The Contractor shall be responsible for the removal of all fuel and associated storage tanks at the end of the contract. There is storage for Contractor furnished portable gasoline cans, and for pesticides and other hazardous chemicals at B326. The Contractor shall comply with all applicable NASA and JSC Environmental Directives and requirements outlined in JPR 8550.1 – JSC Environmental Compliance Procedural Requirements.

Exterior fuel storage tanks exposed to the sun shall be painted white. Deliveries of fuel shall be

Exhibit A - Page 13 of 27 scheduled during core hours as defined in Section 1.4 Hours of Operation. The Contractor shall coordinate and provide advance notice to JSC Environmental Services Contractor prior to fuel deliveries so required inspections for leaks, visible vapors, or odors may be performed.

3.0 GROUNDS MAINTENANCE SERVICES

The Contractor shall furnish all grounds maintenance services in accordance with the requirements set forth in this SOW. Work methods and schedule shall be defined in the Contractor developed Annual Grounds Maintenance Work Plan (DRD 01). The Contractor shall furnish all equipment and supplies necessary to perform these services, unless otherwise specified.

At no time can the requirements of the Fixed Price Completion Form work be decreased without written approval of the Contracting Officer. See Attachment F, Tree Landscape and Attachment G, Mowing Schedule defining the locations and areas to be maintained for specific services.

Approximate acreage of areas can also be found in these maps. The Contractor shall prepare a report describing the breakdown of the Firm Fixed Price of the contract year (DRD 10)

Vegetation at JSC is typical to that found in the middle Gulf Coast. Grasses on lawns consist of St.

Augustine mixed with Bermuda. JSC is utilizing environmentally beneficial landscaping. As conditions permit, the site shall be landscaped for low-maintenance and water conservation with plants that are either native or well adapted to local growing conditions. Plants species known as invasive or highly aggressive shall not be planted. The Contractor may consult the JSC Landscape Design Standards for an approved plant list. Landscape practices shall be employed to minimize pollution, minimize the use of fertilizers and pesticides, and minimize non-native species.

The Contractor shall employ, or retain, a Certified Arborist to supervise the Grounds maintenance crews when performing tree management and pruning services. The Contractor’s Arborist shall provide the Contractor with a Tree Risk Inspection Assessment of all trees in Area “A” for up to 2-inch limb decay, dead wood, low limbs overhanging pedestrian walkways, roadways, or obscuring signage and limbs brushing against buildings or structures in the period between August 15th and October 15th. The Arborist’s report shall provide the Contractor with data justifying additional soil analysis, fertilization, watering or pest control requirements. These issues shall be reported to the COR for assignment as IDIQ tasks. In general, areas to be maintained are defined in the 4 main categories:

3.0.1 Area A: Improved Grounds (Includes Grounds around B-47) See Attachment G.

3.0.2 Area B: Semi-Improved Grounds –

See Attachment G.

3.0.3 Area C: Unimproved Grounds & Prairie/Wildflower Restoration Areas

Exhibit A - Page 14 of 27

See Attachment G.

3.1 Inspect Grounds and Remove Debris

In all Areas (A, B, C, and D), prior to each mowing, the Contractor shall inspect the grounds to be mowed and remove and dispose of all trash, tree limbs, rodent habitats, and dead animals. The Contractor shall remove all litter and debris trapped in the fence. The Contractor shall contact Facility Support Services Contractor (x32038) to trap and relocate animals/reptiles.

3.1.1 Areas A and B: The Contractor shall remove all trash and debris from the perimeters of the mall ponds after each mowing, trimming and edging. The Contactor shall clear all sidewalks, stairs, ramps, parking lots, and storm drain inlets of debris after each mowing, edging, and trimming. The Contractor shall complete removal of debris on the same day as mowing, trimming and edging.

3.1.2 Leaf removals: The contractor shall remove leaves in Area A and B to maintain a neat and professional appearance.

3.2 Irrigation and Watering

The Contractor shall water lawns in areas where the Turf Irrigation System is provided to maintain healthy growth. The Contractor shall follow water conservation guidelines set forth in NPR 8570.1, NASA Energy and Water Management Program. The Government reserves the right to suspend watering activities. The Contractor shall utilize the water from the on-site water well flushing to water lawns without irrigation system and landscaped areas. The Contractor shall adjust watering to site environmental conditions as needed. Due to very tight soils, the Contractor shall be alert to over watering and discontinue applications if required.

3.2.1 Trees: The Contractor shall perform deep-root watering of all newly planted trees, and established trees in need of water, once every week during the summer and once a month in the winter. Deep root watering on the trees with a saucer is accomplished by filling each tree saucer three times and letting it percolate dry. The Contract shall use a root injection feeder to water trees that do not have a saucer.

3.2.2 Area A

3.2.1.1 Landscaped Areas: The Contractor shall water hedges and shrubs, flowers, and plants in landscaped areas to sustain healthy plant growth. The Contractor shall water plants with the established Turf Irrigation System or other available fire hydrants and hose bib sources.

If the Contractor uses a fire hydrant as a water source, the Contractor shall restore the hydrant to its original operational configuration. The Contractor shall adjust watering to site environmental conditions and water as needed. The Contractor shall perform deep watering of all lawn areas (applies to natural lawn and GrassPaveTM areas) and landscaped areas as needed to maintain healthy growth.

Exhibit A - Page 15 of 27

3.2.3 Maintain Irrigation System: The Turf Irrigation System provides irrigation of turf areas in the mall and provides water to the Mall Ponds at JSC. The system spans approximately 50 acres and consists of pipe, backflow preventers and valve boxes, solenoid valves, gate valves, quick couplers, pop-up heads, automatic timers, and controllers. The Contractor shall maintain the Turf Irrigation System downstream of the backflow preventers. The backflow preventers will be maintained by the Facilities Contractor. A map of the Turf Irrigation System is listed in Attachment G.

3.3 Mowing

Prior to mowing, the Contractor shall clear the area as needed to remove any limbs and other debris that would damage mowing equipment. The Contractor shall inspect all mowing equipment such as hoses and connections to ensure there are no leaks. The Contractor shall monitor equipment for leaks during use to prevent spills to the ground. If the equipment leaks, the collection containment shall be provided and the equipment relocated from the area as soon as possible.

3.3.1 Area A: The contractor shall mow and trim all Area A to maintain a uniform lawn height to look well-manicured, with a neat and professional appearance. The Contractor shall cut the lawns every two weeks from April 1 through October 31, and once a month from November 1 through March 31 to a uniform height of 4-6 inches. The Contractor shall evenly distribute grass clippings with no windrows, matting, or clumps. The Contractor may elect to remove clippings and shall recycle removed clippings at the compost area per the approved Annual Grounds Maintenance Work Plan (DRD 01).

3.3.2 Area B: The contractor shall mow and trim all Area B to maintain a uniform lawn height to look well-manicured, with a neat and professional appearance. The Contractor shall cut the lawns at 20 to 22 calendar day intervals from April 1 through October 31, and once a month from November 1 through March 31 to a uniform height of 4-6 inches. The Contractor shall use mowers that will not compact or rut the soil in the area, such as “zero turn riding mowers”. The Contractor shall evenly distribute grass clippings with no windrows, matting, or clumps. The Contractor may elect to remove clippings. The Contractor shall recycle removed clippings at the compost area per the approved Annual Grounds Maintenance Work Plan (DRD 01).

3.3.3 Area C: The Contractor shall cut the unimproved grounds and the Prairie/Wildflower Restoration Areas to a height of 2 to 4 inches using a disc mower when cutting hay two times a year, once prior to March 31st, and once between August 1st and mid-September. Hay baling is acceptable and permitted as an economic method to mow the fields and remove cuttings/trimmings. If the Contractor chooses to bale hay and sell it or use it as an offset against the cost of mowing the area, the Contractor shall include a credit value as a line item in the proposal. For the berms, the contractor shall clean up to four time a year whenever special tree ceremony events occur.

Exhibit A - Page 16 of 27

3.3.4 Fire Lanes: The contractor shall mow and trim all fire lanes along the perimeter fence to maintain a uniform height and ensure area is free of obstructions to allow access for emergency vehicles. The Contractor shall mow fire lanes along the perimeter fence monthly and ensure they are free of obstructions to allow access for emergency vehicles. Lanes shall be maintained a minimum width of 16 feet and a minimum clearance height of 16 feet.

3.3.5 Rights-of-Way: The Contractor shall mow and/or trim all overhead utility rights of way to a height of less than 2 feet above ground level. The Contractor shall maintain the right of way area within 10 feet of towers and within 20 feet on each side of overhead conductors.

3.4 Edging

The contractor shall edge sidewalks, driveways, street edges, curbs, and other hard surfaced areas located within the Area A. The contractor shall cut back grass vegetation no more than 1/2 -1 inch from the surface edged, maintaining an even contour with the edged surface, uniform in appearance and free of scalping, and uneven or rough cutting. The contractor shall remove all grass clippings from, beds, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, streets, (hard surfaces), etc., before leaving the work area. The Contractor shall remove all vegetation in sidewalks, expansion joints, curbs, and cracks during edging to maintain a clean appearance in the Area A.

The Contractor shall remove all vegetation in sidewalks, street expansion joints, curbs, and cracks during edging. The Contractor may use herbicide per manufacturer’s instructions to control growth in these areas. The Contractor shall complete edging on the same day as mowing. The Contractor shall submit the Landscape Edging Inspection Report (DRD 07).

3.4.1 Areas A and B: The Contractor shall edge lawns adjacent to all sidewalks, parking lots, streets, curbs, and driveways to achieve a straight vertical edge where the grass meets the edge of the obstacle. The Contractor shall edge to maintain a straight and even line on the sides of streets, parking lots, and driveways where the pavement edge is not discernable.

3.4.1.1 Landscaped Areas: The Contractor shall inspect landscape edging each year and prepare a report that identifies edging the Contractor recommends to be replaced (DRD 07). The Contractor shall recommend replacement of edging based on its deterioration. The replacement of edging will be performed as IDIQ work.

3.5 Trimming

Grass and weeds shall be trimmed around trees, shrubs, hedges, buildings, fences, poles, posts, fire hydrants, parking lot bumper blocks, boulders, and other fixed obstacles. Trimming height shall match surrounding area grass heights. This task involves all improved grounds as shown on site map. If a plant should die or become unhealthy due to damage, the contractor will be responsible for replacing the damaged plant with a plant of same type.

Exhibit A - Page 17 of 27

The Contractor shall confine trimming accomplished with herbicide treatment to an area extending no further than 6 inches from the object being trimmed. The Contractor shall not apply herbicide within 5 feet of any groundwater well. The Contractor shall complete trimming on the same day as mowing. The Contractor shall apply growth regulator as needed to control growth.

3.5.1 Areas A and B: The Contractor shall trim grass and weeds around buildings and structures, landscape bordering and other bed delineation, trees, shrubs, fences, poles, posts, pedestals, fire hydrants, utilities, bollards, and other fixed obstacles. The Contractor shall remove vegetation in the surrounding swales that is not cut during the mowing process. The Contractor shall trim to a height to match the newly mown grass in the surrounding area, and grass surrounding fixed objects should be maintained up to the base of the object.

3.5.1.1 Landscaped Areas: The Contractor shall trim hedges once every 3 weeks to maintain a straight line. Height shall not impede pedestrian or vehicle visibility.

3.6 Pruning

3.6.1 Trees: The Contractor shall have a readily available certified Arborist to direct pruning.

The Contractor shall prune and shape trees using standard commercial practices to maintain a uniform appearance (symmetry), enhance the trees natural growth pattern, and remove any dead wood, closely paralleled branches, crossing and broken limbs, and superfluous growth and safety. The Contractor shall prune trees annually in early March. The Contractor shall not shear trees. The Contractor shall not prune Crepe Myrtle trees.

3.6.1.1 Clearance: The Contractor shall prune trees to provide the proper clearance over streets and roads. Minimum clearance is 14 feet over streets, 12 feet over driveways and parking lots, 10 feet vertical clearance and two feet horizontal clearance on either side of walkways and jogging trails, and 4 feet from the buildings. The Contractor shall survey all areas requiring clearance every month, and trim trees and shrubs to maintain designated clearances.

3.6.2 Shrubs: The Contractor shall prune and trim shrubs twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall to maintain natural growth, proper size, shape and appearance. Height shall not impede pedestrian or vehicle visibility.

3.6.3 Ornamental Grasses: The Contractor shall shear back grasses to 6” –8” height in early February.

3.6.4 Vines & Groundcover: The Contractor shall prune back vines and groundcover at least once in winter, and as needed to keep boardwalk clear of vegetation. The Contractor shall selectively prune dead stems or blooms as needed during growing season.

Exhibit A - Page 18 of 27

3.6.5 Iris & Umbrella Plant: The Contractor shall not prune except selectively to remove dead foliage.

3.7 Weed Control and Removal

In all Areas (A, B, and C), the Contractor shall monthly control and remove vegetation from paved surfaces which include, but are not limited to: lift station yards, transformer yards, parking lot islands, gravel walkways, the Astronaut Grove memorial pathway, jogging trails, roads and road shoulders, equipment pads, and gravel areas adjacent to buildings such as 32, 48, 221, 223, 322, Longhorn Field, T586, and T588. The Contractor shall apply pre and post-emergent herbicide to control weeds at quarterly intervals. The Contractor shall exercise caution in areas on or near Electrical Distribution Equipment, and coordinate trimming around switchgear with the Facilities Contractor.

3.7.1 Area A:

3.7.1.1 Landscaped Areas: The Contractor shall remove weeds 26 times per year at 2-week intervals. The Contractor shall control weeds through mulching, removal by hand, and use of pre-emergent herbicide when absolutely necessary.

3.7.1.2 Biowall Area: The Contractor shall not spray herbicides or pesticides in the Biowall area. The Contractor shall use weed-eaters around the Biowall survey stakes and ensure that the stakes remain in the exact current locations. The Contractor shall use a weed-eater for any area that cannot be mowed.

3.7.2 Area C: The Contractor shall inspect the prairie areas for weeds quarterly. The Contractor shall apply glysophate as needed to control weeds and fluazifop or outrider® as needed to control invasive grass species. The Contractor shall apply herbicides before weed seeds mature to prevent further infestation. The Contractor shall time applications to avoid application directly before or after mowing. The Contractor shall check treated areas for survival and reemergence of the invasive species, and make additional applications as needed to control. Documentation regarding identification of invasive weed and grass species will be provided by the Government after award of the contract.

3.8 Vegetation Removal and Replacement

The Contractor shall replace plants, shrubs, and hedges within two weeks of plant loss. The Contractor shall remove trees within 4 weeks after they die. The Contractor shall grind stumps to a level below the ground and restore the area to similar surrounding conditions. The Contractor shall suggest a native or adaptive replacement, including genus and species, to be approved by COR. The Contractor may consult the JSC Landscape Design Standards for an approved plant list.

3.8.1 Area A: The Contractor shall seed, sprig, or replace sod areas damaged by erosion, drought, insects, or diseases as directed by the COR. If damage occurs due to neglect of the

Exhibit A - Page 19 of 27 requirements of the contract, the grass shall be replaced at the Contractor’s expense. Grass damaged by other causes shall be replaced as IDIQ work.

The Contractor shall replace dead plants with native Texas or adapted plants of similar types within two weeks of plant loss. The Contractor shall suggest a native or adaptive replacement including genus and species to be approved by COR. The Contractor may consult the JSC Landscape Design Standards for an approved plant list.

3.8.2 Area B: The Contractor shall water the area as needed. The Contractor shall maintain a grass cover in the area.

3.8.2.1 Maintain Fence Line: The Contractor shall mow the fence line and remove vegetation growing on the fence line monthly. The Contractor shall apply herbicide to control vegetation growth. The Contractor shall maintain grade elevation under fence lines monthly by restoring eroded soil. The fence line includes a minimum width of 2 feet on each side of the fence, for a total of 4 feet.

3.8.2.2 Ground Operations: The Contractor may use for ground operations, such as compost, mulch and landscaping trimmings accumulation and processing, the PIE office concrete pad area located adjacent to Building 384B, behind the B358 waste yard area. The maintenance of equipment involving lubricants, petroleum products, solvents or degreasers and the use of any chemicals, including pesticides and herbicides in that area is prohibited. The contractor shall ensure that, the area is maintained in good housekeeping conditions and arranged with enough space allowance for waste pickup trucks servicing B358/383 to turn around in that concrete pad.

The contractor shall respond within 24 hours to space allowance requests from the PIE office or its designee.

3.8.3 Vegetation Damage by Contractor: The Contractor shall replace trees, shrubbery, or ground cover damaged by the Contractor's mowing/trimming/edging operation with comparable vegetation at the Contractor's expense within two weeks of damage. The Contractor shall provide genus and species of the replacement plants upon request. The Contractor shall consult the JSC Landscape Design Standards for an approved plant list. The Contractor shall provide written notification to the COR regarding all damage incidences within 72 hours of the incidence.

3.9 Mulching

3.9.1 Trees: The Contractor shall maintain mulch at a uniform depth of 3 inches in a circle with a 3-foot radius around the tree. The Contractor shall apply mulch 6 inches from the base of the trunk such that the tree trunk is kept dry and the root crown is clear of mulch. If the root

Exhibit A - Page 20 of 27 structure of the tree extends above the ground further than 3 feet, the ring shall be enlarged to accommodate the tree roots. The Contractor shall apply Esplanade EZ, or equivalent to treat mulch area to control vegetation growth.

3.9.1.1 Application Around Trees: The Contractor shall apply fresh bark mulch to new and established tree rings in Areas A and B two times each year, once in the spring, and once in the fall.

3.9.1.2 Raking around Trees: The Contractor shall turn and rake existing mulch monthly in the months when new mulch is not applied.

3.9.1.3 Memorial Plaques: During normal performance of mulch maintenance, the Contractor shall inspect the memorial plaques at the Astronaut grove and along 5th Street and level and clean plaques to maintain a uniform appearance.

3.9.2 Area A:

3.9.2.1 Landscaped Areas: The Contractor shall maintain bark mulch between 2 and 4 inches thick. When new mulch is not required to maintain the proper depth, the Contractor shall turn and rake existing bark to present a uniform appearance. New mulch shall be applied two times per year, once in the spring, and once in the fall.

3.10 Recycle Landscape Trimming and Debris

The Contractor shall reuse vegetative waste to generate compost and mulch. The Contractor will utilize the compost and mulch work areas in the area north of Building 358, and document work methods for generation of compost and mulch, as well as plans to reuse the generated mulch and compost on-site in the Grounds Maintenance Annual Work Plan (DRD 01). Compost shall be used in place of commercial fertilizer whenever possible.

3.10.1 Mulch: The Contractor shall recycle large limbs, branches, tree trunks and other wood debris generated from normal grounds maintenance operations to generate uniformly sized hardwood mulch by using a mechanical chipper/shredder. The Contractor shall maintain the mulch pile to prevent wind dispersion of mulch materials. The Contractor shall apply the mulch to trees and landscaped beds on-site

3.10.2 Composting: The Contractor shall participate in the site-wide composting program consisting of collecting coffee grounds, certain food scraps, shredded paper from collection points at the cafeterias and building 326. The Contractor shall use the concrete compost bins and shall maintain compost generation-site free of odors and rodents.

3.10.2.1 Method: The Contractor shall layer or mix lawn clippings and other organic materials such as coffee grounds, shredded paper, leaves, twigs, sawdust, and hay in the bins, Exhibit A - Page 21 of 27 chopping or shredding the larger pieces to less than 6 inches. The Contractor shall maintain a compost pile that contains equal parts of green or wet material (high nitrogen sources) and brown or dry material (high in carbon). The Contractor shall turn the materials in the bin weekly, and maintain the compost at a temperature of less than 150 degrees Fahrenheit. The Contractor shall add water to maintain moisture content of 40 to 60 percent in the compost bin.

3.10.2.2 Restrictions: The Contractor shall not add human, or animal waste (e.g. carcasses), meat scraps, bones, grease or dairy products to the composting bins, unless approved in writing by the COR and CO, upon consultation and concurrence from the JSC Planning, Integration and Environmental Office.

3.10.2.3 Use: The Contractor shall use mature compost on landscaped areas per the Annual Grounds Maintenance Work Plan in place of commercial fertilizer.

3.11 Fertilization

The Contractor shall utilize compost to fertilize landscaped areas to maintain and enhance growth. The Contractor shall fertilize shrubs and plant/flower beds in landscaped areas with solid compost once in the spring and liquid or solid compost once in the fall and perform pH soil adjustment as needed to sustain healthy plant growth.

The Contractor shall fertilize and weed control landscaped areas A and B with environmentally approved materials to maintain and enhance lawn growth by ensuring lawns are free of weeds, crab grass, and grubs as determined by lawn care service professionals.

The Contractor shall fertilize all other landscape plants in April & July at a rate of application 1-pound actual nitrogen per 1000 square feet. The Contractor shall fertilize the trees annually at the rate of 1-pound actual nitrogen per inch of tree caliper. The Contractor shall fertilize in spring at leaf emergence. The Contractor shall fertilize the lawns (applies to natural lawn and GrassPaveTM areas) 2 times annually as follows:

May 1 pound Actual N/1000 SF October 1.5 pounds Actual N/1000 SF

The Contractor shall fertilize all other landscape plants in April & July at a rate of application 1-pound actual nitrogen per 1000 square feet.

Fertilizers, pesticides or other chemical products shall not be used within 48 hours of a rain event, especially near storm water inlets or WOTUS (ditches, dry creeks, conservation channels, etc), nor spread over wet ground, to prevent runoff…