Grounds MX PWS Draft.pdf

GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

1 August 2024

Prepared by

UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 Description of Services

1.1 Maintain Improved Grounds

1.1.1 Mow

1.1.2 Edge

1.1.3 Trim

1.1.4 Weed Control

1.1.5 Munition Storage Area

1.1.6 Irrigation

1.1.7 Remove Debris/Police Grounds

1.1.8 Leaf Removal

1.1.9 Lawn Conditioning

1.1.10 Pest Control

1.1.11 Lawn Renovation

1.1.12 Prune Shrub, Hedges and other Plants

1.1.13 Artificial Turf

1.1.14 Maintain Athletic Fields

1.2 Maintain Semi-Improved Grounds

1.2.1 Mow

1.2.1.1 Additional Semi-Improved Mowing

1.2.1.2 Falcon Stadium Parking Lots

1.2.2 Trim

1.2.3 Base Perimeter Fence Line

1.3 Maintain Bird Area Strike Hazard (BASH)

1.3.1 Mow

1.3.2 Airfield Light Fixtures

1.3.3 Herbicides and Insecticides

1.3.4 Airfield Coordination

1.3.5 Flight-Line Drivers

1.3.6 Airfield Tower Communications

1.4 Maintain Un-Improved Grounds

1.4.1 Trash and Debris Removal

1.5 Maintain Vegetative Beds, Inert Beds, Rock Beds And Related Areas

1.6 Maintain Surface Drainage Ditches

1.7 Perform Snow/Ice Removal

1.7.1 Basic Services

1.7.2 Ice Control

1.7.3 Sand Barrels

1.8 Special Requirements

1.8.1 Trees

1.8.2 Emergency and Special Events Services

1.8.3 Xeriscaping and Urban Forest Services

1.8.4 Special Cuts

1.8.5 Planting Trees, Shrubs, And Vegetative Beds

1.8.6 Compost Yard

2 Service summary

2.1 Quality Control

2.2 Quality Assurance

3 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY AND SERVICES

3.1 Facilities

3.2 Utilities

3.3 Materials

3.4 Security, Fire, And Medical Services

3.5 Telephone

3.6 Solid Waste Collection And Disposal

4 GENERAL INFORMATION

4.1 Mission

4.2 Background

4.3 Damages to Government Buildings, Equipment, or Vegetation

4.4 Environmental Requirements

4.4.1 Hazardous Materials

4.4.2 Spill controls

4.4.3 Pesticides

4.4.4 Hazardous Materials Inventory

4.4.5 Hazardous Materials Management

4.4.6 Final Report

4.5 Permits, Licenses And Certifications

4.6 Hours of Operation

4.7 Recognized Holidays

4.7.1 Base Closures

4.8 Security Requirements

4.9 Performance of Service During Crisis or Heightened Security

4.9.1 Articipation in Exercises

4.10 Special Qualifications

4.10.1 Contract Manager

4.10.2 Contract Manager or Alternate

4.10.3 Contractor Personnel

4.10.4 Contractors Working on Airfield

4.10.5 Employee Rosters

4.10.6 Herbicide Applicators

4.10.7 Equipment Custodian

4.11 Interfaces

4.12 Contracting Officer And Contracting Officer Representative (Quality Assurance Personnel) .. 31

4.13 Work Clearance Requests

4.14 Safety Requirements And Reports

4.15 Schedules

4.15.1 Schedule Changes

5 APPENDIXES

1 DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES

The contractor shall provide non-personal services, to include all personnel, equipment, tools, supervision, and other items and services necessary to ensure that grounds maintenance is performed at the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) in a manner that will promote the growth of healthy grass, trees, shrubs, and plants and present a clean, neat, and professional appearance. Area maps and workloads depicting the service described in this PWS are identified in the Appendices. The contractor’s performance will be based on the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) and Contracting Officer’s (CO) evaluation of the results required by the Service Summary (SS) and not the method of performance. The evaluation of results will be based on COR surveillance, tenant satisfaction, and customer complaints. 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, and local laws and commercial standards.

USAFA Grounds Maintenance includes a unique blend of landscaping, turf maintenance, synthetic turf maintenance, airfield maintenance, football stadium maintenance and NCAA athletic field maintenance/preparation. The contractor shall accomplish all tasks to meet the requirements of this Performance Work Statement (PWS) and contractor shall respond to validated customer complaints and provide corrective course of action within (24) hours via email or USAFA Form

104. This Performance Work Statement will NOT be revised to incorporate changes in laws, regulations, instructions, or requirements. Once the contract date starts, contractors have a transition period that shall not exceed (31) calendar days to ensure a smooth transition of work effort. During the transition period the contractor shall obtain security clearance, determine training requirements, develop work plans and procedures, and finalize quality control plans, key control plans, inventory all government furnished equipment.

The growing season at the United States Air Force Academy is 01 April through 31 October. All damage caused by the contractor or its employees to government property and personal property (to include facilities, fences, equipment, trees, and shrubs, etc.) due to contractor operations shall be repaired or replaced by the contractor within (15) days after identification/notification at no additional cost to the Government. 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 size and type.

Plant replacement shall occur within (15) days after identification or notification or as otherwise agreed to by the parties.

Fence lines identified shall be maintained to be free of trash and debris from fence lines and roads.

1.1 MAINTAIN IMPROVED GROUNDS

Improved grounds are identified in Appendix A.

1.1.1 MOW

The contractor shall mow all improved grounds to look well-manicured, with a neat and professional appearance. Maintain grass height between (2) and (4) inches uniform in appearance, free of skips, gaps, rutting, or scalping (Appendix D). The contractor shall be 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. Removed debris shall be disposed of in accordance with the base’s solid waste management plan. The contractor shall ensure that the white sidewalks in and around the Air Gardens are free of green stains following maintenance.

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 a (½) inch 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.

1.1.3 TRIM

The contractor shall trim grass and weeds around trees, shrubs, buildings, fences, poles, fire hydrants, parking lots bumper blocks, boulders, and other fixed obstacles and temporary obstacles/objects on improved grounds. Trimming height shall match surrounding area grass height between (2) and (4) inches. All areas shall be trimmed concurrent with mowing. The contractor shall remove or mulch grass clippings when visible after trimming, before leaving work area.

1.1.4 WEED CONTROL

Control weeds in improved grounds through execution of a weed control program appropriate for the area to maintain a professional appearance. A weed control schedule shall be provided to the COR no later than the 5th business day of each calendar month. Restore grounds made barren where weeds are removed to the level of care of the surrounding area (i.e. semi-improved, improved, etc.). The Contractor shall use only approved pesticides as stated in DoD Instruction 4150.07, DoD Pest Management Program, Encl 4 para 4.2.2 and AFI 32-1053, Pest Management Program, para

4.7.4 and 4.7.6. All pesticides, herbicides, and rodenticides are defined in DoD and Air Force documents. The contractor shall comply with current federal, state, local, DoD, and Air Force regulations, plans, and policies. The contractor shall comply with all applicable parts of 29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1910, Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Standards, 29 CFR 1925, Labor, Safety and Health Standards for Federal Service Contracts, 40 CFR 150-189, Protection of Environment, Pesticide Program, and 49 CFR 171, Transportation, General Information, Regulations, and Definitions. The contractor shall ensure that all workers have current state certification for the pest control services being performed. Civil Engineer Asset Management Flight must approve all herbicides prior to use. All herbicides and pesticides used must be on the installation-approved inventory list and applied by certified personnel. The following types of pests are common on this installation: all regional weeds such as dandelions, Russian thistle, etc. The contractor shall perform weed control on improved grounds, synthetic turf fields, and the “earth centered worship area.” The contractor shall mix and store all chemicals off base as mixing and storing of chemicals on base is strictly prohibited. The contractor shall not spray chemicals on medians during peak traffic hours, i.e. between the hours of 7:00 A.M. to 9:00 A.M., 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M., and 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. The contractor shall notify the appropriate Facility Manager prior to spraying chemicals in the immediate area, (within 50 feet) of occupied buildings. The contractor shall apply chemicals in areas that are within 50 feet of occupied buildings only during the early morning or late afternoon hours (before 7:00 A.M or after 4:00 P.M.). This practice ensures the building’s occupancy is at an absolute minimum.

1.1.5 MUNITION STORAGE AREA

Reserved

1.1.6 IRRIGATION

The contractor shall maintain, adjust, and repair identified irrigation systems during the growing season. There is (1) centralized irrigation control system that encompasses WeatherTrex.

However, the government does not guarantee the operability of the control systems nor does the government guarantee that all improved areas are covered by the control systems. The contractor shall be responsible for all hardware and software required to operate and maintain the government irrigation control systems, and annual maintenance of the government weather stations irrigation system data is found in Appendix F.

1.1.6.1 OPERATION OF IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

Contractor shall be responsible for day-to-day operation of the base-wide automated irrigation system. Irrigation responsibilities include setup, monitoring, adjusting, etc., of irrigation system computer, clocks/timers, controllers, pumps, etc. 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 Appendix 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. The Contractor is prohibited from connecting to any hydrant within the boundaries of the installation without prior approval from CO/COR. Contractor shall practice water conservation measures whenever possible and shall position all watering systems to avoid overspray onto pavements, sidewalks, roadways, etc. Watering shall be performed during nighttime hours. If daytime watering is necessary, Contractor shall notify the CO or COR of the reason for daytime watering, and the duration daytime watering will be in progress. Improved Grounds shall not be irrigated more than (3) times per week, EXCEPT for the athletic fields, parade fields, the cemetery, and newly installed sod, which may be irrigated as needed. This (3) day per week restriction is subject to change by the government at any time. Only combination locks (all locks to be provided by the contractor) may be used to secure timers, main valves, and electrical voltage boxes. The combinations shall be furnished to the CORs. During the dormant (non-growing) season (01 November through 31 March) the contractor shall ensure sufficient watering of the athletic fields, parade fields, medians, and trees as necessary to preserve healthy grounds. The contractor shall begin charging the irrigation systems (weather permitting) no earlier than 01 March and shall have all irrigation systems charged by 01 May. The contractor shall adjust watering times such that all systems have adequate pressure to function properly and do not reduce pressure in water mains as to cause fire, safety, or operational problems. The contractor shall not irrigate the medians on Northgate, Southgate, and Stadium Boulevards during peak traffic hours. These peak traffic hours are 6:00 A.M. – 8:00 A.M. 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M., and 3:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. All irrigation or main water line issues shall be reported to CE Production Control immediately at 719-333-2790. Problems occurring on the main water valve mains and lateral lines leading to the shut-off valves shall be the CE Service Provider’s responsibility.

1.1.6.2 MAINTENANCE OF IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

The contractor shall maintain irrigation systems. Maintenance includes but is not limited to draining and charging systems, replacing damaged or broken control devices and sprinkler heads, and repair of ruptured pipes. Maintain equipment and systems to be efficient and in good operational working order. Replacement of pumps, controllers, clocks/timers, or backflow prevention devices is not included in routine maintenance of irrigation systems.

Replacement will be on a case-by-case, reimbursable basis. The contractor will be required to provide a quote and the Government will fund by issuance of task order. All associated labor costs shall be included as part of monthly irrigation maintenance. The contractor shall make all sprinkler repairs within 24 hours of task order issuance. The irrigation system to be maintained and related workload data is identified in Appendix A, B and F.

1.1.6.3 WINTERIZATION OF IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

At the end of the growing season of each year, all the irrigation systems shall be winterized by closing off the primary irrigation control valve and utilizing compressed air to remove all water from the irrigation system. Winterization shall be coordinated with COR to ensure backflow preventers are also winterized or removed. The Contractor shall tag the irrigation system shut off valve with the following information: “system winterized”, the date, and performed by. Repairs to irrigation equipment must be accomplished prior to winterization.

1.1.7 REMOVE DEBRIS/POLICE GROUNDS

The contractor shall perform general litter patrol in areas of improved grounds identified in Appendix A Table 4 and B. Remove and dispose of natural debris, (tree limbs, dry brush, etc.), and man-made debris. Police areas to maintain a neat and professional appearance. The contractor shall police the cadet and athletic areas 100% daily. The contractor shall police all other areas 100% weekly unless otherwise stated in Appendix A. Included in this requirement are 112 permanent trash receptacles (23 bear proof & 89 non-bear proof). Trash receptacles in the cadet area and at the visitor center shall be emptied daily. Trash receptacles at the Cadet Field House shall be emptied daily from November-March and weekly from April-October. Trash receptacles at the Community Center Ball Field shall be emptied daily from May-August and weekly from September-March. All other permanents trash receptacles shall be emptied weekly.

1.1.7.1 DEAD ANIMALS

All dead animals are to be reported to and handled by Natural Resources at 333-3308.

1.1.8 LEAF REMOVAL

The contractor shall remove leaves and pine needles on improved grounds to maintain a neat and professional appearance. Removal of leaves and pine needles is part of the litter patrol to maintain a neat and professional appearance. Leaf removal must be completed in accordance with 1.1.7.

Leaves must be disposed in accordance with the base solid waste management plan.

1.1.9 LAWN CONDITIONING

1.1.9.1 FERTILIZATION

The contractor shall have a pH adjustment and fertilizer application program. The contractor shall perform a laboratory test of the soil in improved grounds and apply fertilizer and other soil amendments to bring soil condition to that suitable for the vegetation being treated. This work will be issued as a work order by the CO or COR. Apply fertilizer and other soil amendments to bring soil condition to that suitable for the vegetation being treated. The contractor shall provide and apply fertilizer to approved areas at a minimum three times annually: spring, summer, and fall. Refer to workload data in Appendix A for specific months. Fertilizer or soil amendment type and rate of application shall be determined by the results of laboratory testing. The contractor shall apply commercial fertilizers and soil amendments evenly to produce a dark green color and to prevent burning and streaking. The contractor shall clean all fertilizer/soil amendments from all concrete surfaces immediately after application and prior to watering to prevent staining of concrete surfaces. The contractor shall identify to the COR(s) areas that have been fertilized or have had soil amendments applied twenty-four (24) hours after application.

1.1.9.2 AERATION

The contractor shall aerate lawns on improved once per year during the month that best suited for the grounds and type of grass. Aeration shall be performed with a core aerator to remove soil plugs at a minimum of (2) – (4) inches deep and (2) - (3) inches apart. Plugs will be left on the lawn to disintegrate. The contractor shall remove thatch plugs from sidewalks, parking lots, and roadways within twenty-four (24) hours after aerating. The contractor shall be responsible for any damages to irrigation systems resulting from aeration operations.

1.1.10 PEST CONTROL

Reserved

1.1.11 LAWN RENOVATION

The contractor shall renovate lawns in improved grounds as identified by the CO or COR. This work will be issued via a separate work order. Renovate deteriorated lawn area to match surrounding areas.

Graduation Sod Replacement: The contractor can expect to provide and install approximately (120,000) square feet of sod per year, to be installed prior to graduation throughout USAFA. The contractor shall be capable of providing and installing approximately (20,000) square feet of sod per week prior to graduation. Final inspection shall be performed at the completion of each requirement or on the first workday after the end of the calendar week suspense. Lawn repair may be necessary for reasons beyond the contractor’s control.

1.1.12 PRUNE SHRUB, 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 (3) inches 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.

1.1.13 ARTIFICIAL TURF

1.1.13.1 GROOMING ARTIFICIAL TURF SURFACE

In-filled surfaces require grooming every (3) months per manufactures specifications.

Routine grooming is accomplished with a sweeper or drag broom. Additional grooming may be necessary if the in-fill has become displaced. Maintaining the brushing schedule simultaneously achieves (3) objectives:

1. Keeps infill layer uniform in distribution.

2. Ensures the exposed part of the fiber is uniform in direction and stays erect.

3. Helps remove litter, leaves, dirt, etc.

A. SURFACE GROOMING

The contractor shall surface groom the turf grounds every (4) to (6) weeks by dragging the turf. Equipment to be used shall have prior approval from the Contracting Officer.

Schedule for grooming shall be given to the COR(s) and shall be submitted no later than the 25th of each month.

B. INFILL GROOMING: The contractor shall infill groom the turf, using the proper infill as prescribed by the manufacturer, every (6) to (8) weeks by pulling the spiked wheel portion and the tines over the field surface. The contractor shall groom at right angles to each other. The contractor shall repair damages to the turf within (24) hours at no cost to the government. The contractor shall provide the schedule for grooming to the COR(s) no later than the 25th of each month.

C. BRUSHING TURF

The contractor shall brush and/or sweep the turf. Use of wire or metal brushes on all synthetic turfs is prohibited. The contractor shall drag the turf brushes (cross brushing).

D. TURF LOADING LIMITATIONS

The contractor shall ensure sweepers that weigh more than (300) pounds. have pneumatic tires with a maximum tire pressure of (35) pounds per square inch (psi).

E. TOP DRESSING: REFURBISHING CRUMB RUBBER

The contractor shall ensure the “crumb rubber” used to top dress the synthetic turf/playgrounds does not have any metal fibers, or other materials within its chemical makeup that may cause personal injury. The contractor shall apply the topdressing to cover the “thatch layer”. The contractor shall ensure topdressing is performed so as not to completely cover the fibrillation or blade of the turf.

F. TURF SWEEPER/LITTER REMOVAL

When using sweeping machines to remove litter, several points should be observed:

Brush Setting Monitor the brush setting. The actual setting depends on the model and type of machine.

However, the optimum operation consists of setting the brush so that it barely touches the tips of the fibers of the turf. DO NOT SET THE BRUSH SO LOW THAT IT DIGS INTO THE TURF PILE OR BACKING. Too low of a setting can damage the turf. Do not use vacuums to remove surface debris on in-filled surfaces.

Bristle Type The sweeper should have synthetic fiber bristles such as nylon or polypropylene. The minimum brush length should be (2.5) inches. The maximum bristle diameter should be (0.03) inches. The brush must contain no metal or wire.

Temperature Limitation Never use a sweeper if the ambient temperature exceeds 90º F (32ºC).

Turf Loading Limitation Brushing and brush cleaning may require several trips over the turf to finish the operation.

Depending on the sub-base, any sweeper that weighs more than (300) pounds should have turf-type low ground pressure tires (pneumatic tires) with a maximum tire pressure of (35) pounds per square inch (psi). Do not park vehicles on the turf or operate vehicles on wet turf.

Exhaust Fumes If the sweeper has an internal combustion engine or is attached to a tow vehicle, make certain that the engine exhaust is not discharged down toward the surface. Hot objects can damage the turf and engine exhaust may soil it. Check to make sure the sweeper is designed in such a way that a hot muffler or exhaust pipe cannot drop onto the surface.

Petroleum, Oil, or Other Liquid Spillage Take precautions to prevent lubricating oil, gasoline, grease, transmission fluids, battery acid, brake fluid, etc. from dripping, leaking, or spilling on the AvTurf surface during sweepings. Such spills can discolor the turf and damage the fibers and turf backing. Proper maintenance procedures should be observed in this regard. Do not allow battery acid and other fluids on the surface. Never change or add fluids to maintenance equipment while on the surface. Procedures on contractor spill responsibility are identified in Appendix I.

Frequency Perform the removal of loose rubbish and surface dust on an as-needed basis.

G. MINOR REPAIRS TO ARTIFICAL TURF SURFACES:

When to Repair:

Any minor damage must be repaired immediately because a small problem may eventually grow into a major repair. All seams should be inspected, and any loose areas noted and repaired.

When to Inspect Inspection should occur in the early spring. If repairs are required, they are easier to make in warm, dry weather. Adhesives will hold better and cure faster when there is more opportunity to leave the repaired area undisturbed. Gluing repairs should not be attempted if the turf is wet.

What Are Minor Repairs?

A minor repair consists of an open spot in a sewn or glued seam, where the loose area in the seam extends from a few inches to (2) feet (along a glued seam line where at least (1) of the turf edges is still attached to the seam tape). Cuts, rips, or tears in the surface fabric that are less than (6) inches in length can be repaired.

To Repair Minor Seam Openings or Loose Seam Areas:

1. For in-filled systems, vacuum sand from the turf to be repaired.

2. Ensure the fabrics to be adhered are dry, free from loose sand, dirt, old adhesive, and other foreign matter.

3. Clean the area and wipe the opening with methyl-ethyl-ketone (MEK), toluene, or, if neither is available, mineral spirits.

4. Position the fabric to check for satisfactory final placement.

5. Be sure the seaming tape to which the fabric will be adhered is itself adhered to the pavement or sub-base.

6. Trowel a small amount of adhesive from an adhesive bottle onto the seaming tape.

Avoid excessive adhesive to reduce the possibility of bleed through or bleed out.

Spread the adhesive with a trowel so the entire fabric is coated lightly and evenly.

7. Press the fabric into the adhesive bed uniformly.

8. Weigh down the area and allow area to cure at least (24) hours.

9. For in-filled systems, spread appropriate sand on the repaired area and brush into the turf thoroughly until even with surrounding areas.

10. Follow Manufactures Specifications

1.1.14 MAINTAIN ATHLETIC FIELDS

USAFA is home to NCAA Division 1 Athletic teams. The cadet area athletic fields require increased maintenance to support the high demands and standards of NCAA athletics. The fields are considered improved grounds. The fields shall be maintained to provide a safe, aesthetically pleasing healthy turf stand enabling high wear tolerance and quick repair (re-growth) due to the high demands of athletic play. The Softball and Junior Varsity Baseball Fields shall be maintained to NCAA standards throughout the softball/baseball seasons. The following requirements are over and above the standard improved grounds requirements.

1.1.14.1 FIELDS 1, 2, 3, 4, SOFTBALL, & JV BASEBALL

A. MOWING, TRIMMING & EDGING

The contractor shall mow as necessary to maintain grass at a height of (2) – (2 ½) inches, except for Varsity/NCAA fields which shall be cut to a height of (1) – (1 ½) inches. It is always critical that the prescribed heights be maintained, especially in support of practices, games, and special events. Therefore, the contractor shall mow however often and on whatever days of the week necessary to ensure the prescribed heights are maintained. The contractor shall perform a complete trimming in all areas after each mowing. After mowing is completed, the contractor shall trim grass and weeds around trees, shrubs, buildings, fences, poles, posts, nets, goals, fence posts, stakes, fire hydrants, parking lots bumper blocks, boulders, and other fixed obstacles and temporary obstacles/objects on improved grounds. The contractor shall remove and dispose of clippings immediately after trimming is performed. When completed, the fields must present a well-kept and uniformly groomed appearance. Edge the athletic fields once a year during the month of May, to include the drainage swells at the base of the banks and the drain inlets on all fields. The contractor shall maintain the baseball and softball infields to be level with the outfield. Infields and warning track will be weed free and dragged to create suitable playing surfaces.

B. SOIL TESTING & FERTILIZATION

Draw soil samples and obtain soil analysis twice per year, once prior to fall fertilization and once prior to spring fertilization, and apply fertilizers and soil amendments based on the soil analysis results. Fertilize three times on or about 15 April, 15 July, and 15 September.

C. AERATION

The contractor shall deep tine aerate twice yearly, on or about March and September.

Cores aerate twice yearly, on or about April and August. Process the cores after they have dried and sweep the roads adjacent to the fields upon completion of the aeration.

D. SEEDING

The contractor shall drill-seed twice yearly, on or about June and October, in two directions, immediately following the core aeration process, at a rate of (80) pounds of seed per acre, per direction, for a total of (160) pounds per acre. Use Seed with a blend of (3) different species of bluegrass in equal proportions.

E. POWER-RAKING

The contractor shall power-rake in March, prior to the start of the growing season. As each area is power raked, haul the power raked materials to the government provided roll-offs for disposal.

F. WEED CONTROL

The contractor shall spray the warning tracks on the baseball and softball fields as needed throughout the growing season. The contractor will be responsible for restoring any grounds made barren by weed removal, to acceptable standards.

G. TOP-DRESSING AND WETTING AGENT

The contractor shall apply topdressing twice a year or as needed over the complete field to keep the playing surfaces safe and level. A wetting agent should also be applied twice yearly during June and August.

1.1.14.2 VARSITY SOCCER FIELDS, SOCCER STADIUM, FOOTBALL PPRACTICE FIELDS

A. MOWING, TRIMMING & EDGING

Mow as necessary to maintain grass at a height of (1) – (1½) inches and trim after each mowing. When completed, the fields must present a well-kept and uniformly groomed appearance. Remove any clumps or balls of grass.

B. SOIL TESTING & FERTILIZATION

Draw soil samples and obtain soil analysis twice per year, once prior to fall fertilization and once prior to spring fertilization, and apply fertilizers and soil amendments based on the soil analysis results. Fertilize (3) times yearly on or about 15 April, 15 July, and 15 September.

C. AERATION

The contractor shall deep tine aerate, at a depth of (8) inches, twice yearly, in March and in September. Cores aerate (4) times yearly during the months of March, June, July, and October. Process the cores after they have dried and sweep the roads adjacent to the fields upon completion of the aeration.

D. SEEDING

The contractor shall drill seed (3) times yearly following the core aeration on or about June, July, and October, and prior to the topdressing of these areas, using a blend of (3) different species of bluegrass in equal proportions. Drill seed in (2) directions at a rate of (5) pounds of seed per (1,000) square feet. Broadcast seed once a month during the months of April, May, August, September, and October, at a rate of (5) pounds per (1,000) square feet using a blend of (3) different species of bluegrass in equal proportions.

E. POWER-RAKING

The contractor shall power-rake in March, prior to the start of the growing season. As each area is power raked, haul the power raked materials to the government provided roll-offs for disposal.

F. WEED CONTROL

The contractor shall spray the warning tracks on the fields as needed throughout the growing season. The contractor will be responsible for restoring any grounds made barren by weed removal, to acceptable standards.

G. TOP-DRESSING AND WETTING AGENT

The contractor shall top-dress (3) times yearly or as needed over the complete field to keep the playing surfaces safe and level following the core aeration process in June, July, and October with 90% sand and a 10% peat mix. The sand shall be (1.25) to (0.25) millimeters with less than 3% silt and clay, and less than 5% smaller than (0.25) millimeters and no larger than (1.25) millimeters. Apply a wetting agent to all fields once per month during the months of June through September.

1.1.14.3 ATHLETIC FIELD MARKINGS

The contractor shall paint fields in accordance with NCAA Standards provided by the COR on an as needed basis, using only paints prescribed by the synthetic turf manufacturer. The contractor shall wash chalk dust. The contractor shall apply paint only on dry, well swept, grease free surfaces. The contractor shall remove old, degraded paint and dirt from the turf to be painted. Field Marking workload is found in Appendix A.

The contractor shall mark boundaries, hash marks, end zones, yard marks and all other markings associated with the playing fields on the practice field in the Community Center and the athletic fields in the cadet area using the appropriate field marking paint. Color of field marking paint will be determined by the COR(s) and may be white, red, or any other color. All marking of the athletic fields in the cadet area shall be completed as estimated in the Workload Data, Appendix A and H (fields will be utilized year-round). Field markings must meet current NCAA marking standards. Current NCAA field marking standards can be found at http://www.ncaa.org.

A. TEMPORARY PAINTS

The contractor shall remove temporary paint. Temporary paint is an acrylic latex water-based exterior paint such as Sherwin Williams white (all code A-17), and yellow paint (all code P-3). (1) day curing time is required. The contractor shall dilute in the ratio of

(1) gallon of paint with (1) gallon of water prior to use.

B. PERMANENT PAINTS

When applying a permanent paint, the contractor shall properly apply a latex type of highly flexible paint to resist flaking. Suggested paint is Sherwin Williams “Watch Guard System Metalatex”, semi-gloss enamel, (or SuperPaint 8AOW507, SuperWhite).

These paints can be expected to last through (1) season.

C. APPLICATION

The contractor shall apply the paint on a dry field. Suggested turf temperature should be 65 degrees Fahrenheit to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The contractor shall clean the field as clean as possible. Thickness of the paint on the turf is important. Very thick layers should be avoided. The contractor shall dilute the paint by adding (1) quart of water to http://www.ncaa.org/

(1) gallon of paint and mix well. Curing time shall be a minimum of (2) days, (preferably

(3) days.) The contractor shall use no more paint than is necessary and clean-up spills before they solidify. The contractor shall apply paint lightly to the tips of the grass blades— not the entire length of every blade. Applying the paint too heavily makes for a very rough, abrasive surface and will make the removal job very difficult.

1.1.14.4 SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL

It may be necessary to remove snow and/or ice from the playing fields for a scheduled event. The contractor shall clear the baseball and lacrosse fields no later than (3) hours prior to the beginning of scheduled games. This requirement is in addition to other snow removal requirements and will not interfere with other snow removal requirements.

Equipment/vehicles used to remove snow shall have pneumatic tires wide enough (10" minimum) to preclude any damage to the playing field. Lugs, chains, and studs are strictly prohibited from use on any synthetic turf field. Snow blades used to remove, or plow snow shall have a rubber blade installed at the bottom to preclude damage to the playing field.

Ideally, a PVC pipe with a single saw cut can be slipped over the bottom of the blade. Use of tarps on the field during freezing weather is strictly prohibited. Tarps can freeze to the turf by means of condensation and thus be very difficult to remove and can cause damage to the turf.

1.1.14.5 SWEEPERS AND SNOWBLOWERS

The contractor shall use a rotary brush and/or snow blower and set the height of the plow blade (1) inch above the turf. Suggested method for removing snow is as follows: a) The first pass of the blower should be made down the center of the field, from goal to goal, or edge to edge. b) The second pass should be made at the edge of either side of the first pass and the blower must be adjusted so that the snow can be deposited into a truck. c) The blower then continues down 1 side and up the other accompanied by the truck. d) Finally, clean off the remaining snow with a mechanical broom.

1.1.14.6 BLADED SNOWPLOWS

Wet, sticky snow may be more easily removed if pushed off the fields using a snowplow with a rubber tipped blade. The blade may be mounted on a light tractor/vehicle. The contractor shall use extreme caution to prevent digging the blade into the surface. Damages to the turf shall be immediately repaired at no cost to the government. Wood, metal, or other rigid surface blades are not used on synthetic turfs. Skid loaders are prohibited for use on turf fields. Follow suggested maintenance and cleaning procedures. Prohibit smoking, food, drink; also avoiding open flames, welding, and other sources of ignition.

DONT‘S : Do not abuse the synthetic turf system with constant vehicle traffic, heavy static loads, storage of materials such as drums, lumber, equipment, etc., use of wire brushes in any form, direct blast from high-pressure water sprayers, introduction of in-fills or impregnated layers other than those recommended by AvTurf. Weed control will be performed on the AV turf to maintain safe airfield operations and ensure that weeds will not damage the Sail Plains or pose a tripping hazard to personnel.

1.1.14.7 SYNTHETIC TURF SNOW REMOVAL

The contractor shall, at the COR’s request, remove snow from the Lacrosse area (located north of the cadet gym) and the varsity baseball field (located north of the cadet gym), approximately 20 – 30 times, the multi-Purpose field and Husky Field (located in the Community Center) require snow removal approximately (6) times between 15 September and 15 May for practice and is a priority 3 and will be done after priority 1 and 2 areas are finished. The exemption is for scheduled games. The contractor shall clear the baseball and lacrosse fields no later than (3) hours prior to the beginning of scheduled games if posable without damage to the field. This requirement is in addition to other snow removal requirements and will not interfere with other snow removal requirements.

1.1.14.8 FALCON STADIUM SNOW REMOVAL

The contractor shall provide snow removal (sidewalks, steps, concourses, and seating areas, etc.) services at Falcon Stadium. Requirements are seasonal and sporadic, i.e., in support of, but not limited to, graduation, varsity and intramural games, luncheons in the press box, and special events. Snow removal for lacrosse games will not require snow removal from the entire stadium. Snow removal for lacrosse games (February-May) will consist of 3-4 seating sections, the main concourse, and gates as identified by the stadium manager. Snow removal services include actual and stand-by services. During the football season (August – December), the contractor shall perform snow/ice removal as required so that areas are clear of snow and ice no later than (4) hours before a scheduled home game, with continual support throughout the football game as needed. The contractor shall provide standby personnel as required in the event snow is anticipated. The contractor is responsible for providing all snow removal equipment except snow chutes, which will be provided by the facility manager. The contractor shall remove snow/ice from stairs, walkways, seats, seating areas, entrances to restrooms and concession stands and open areas under the press box. Approximately (240) man-hours per game are estimated for snow removal. Reference Appendix B for stadium map. The contractor shall be given notification of snow/ice removal requirements, actual or standby, by the COR, stadium manager or authorized representative as far in advance as possible and at any day of the week or time of day. The contractor shall provide personnel no later than two (2) hours after notification. The Contract Manager shall notify the stadium manager upon arrival of personnel reporting for snow/ice removal services. Snow Plan. The contractor shall submit, for Contracting Officer approval, a Snow Removal Plan for Falcon Stadium. The plan shall be submitted annually no later than sixty (60) days prior to the first scheduled home varsity football game. The plan shall include, but not be limited to:

a) How personnel will be notified of snow removal requirements.

b) Reporting procedures.

c) Backup plan if number of personnel reporting for snow removal is insufficient.

1.1.14.9 ADDITIONAL SNOW REMOVAL SNOW REMOVAL SERVICES

Approximately (500) man-hours per year are required for maintenance of facility walking surface during special events, walking surfaces must be free of ice and snow build up from edge to edge during special events. Examples but not limited to National Conference

Leadership Seminar, CORONA and Sporting Events, this does not include football games as they are covered separately in the Performance Work Statement (PWS). Approximately 50% of these man-hours involve small equipment operator and 50% involve labor. The following areas are required to be cleared of snow/ice on an “as needed” basis, approximately 20 - 30 times per year: Baseball Press Box (Building 10075), Track Press Box/steps (Building 10085), Lacrosse Press Box (Building 10077), Soccer Press Box (Building 10078), Facility 10081; Athletic Fields, areas 1 – 7. Athletic Fields, areas 1-7, have natural grass so snow/ice removal shall be done ONLY at the COR(s) discretion to ensure the natural grass is not damaged. If there is any potential for damaging the natural grass, snow/ice removal shall not be done.

1.2 MAINTAIN SEMI-IMPROVED GROUNDS

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

1.2.1 MOW

The contractor shall maintain grass height between (4) and (10) inches in all semi-improved grounds areas. Maintain a uniform appearance in all areas. Where possible, maintain adjacent areas at or near the same grass heights.

1.2.1.1 ADDITIONAL SEMI-IMPROVED MOWING

The contractor shall perform semi-improved mowing in un-improved areas as indicated at Appendix A. Examples of this requirement are west of Doolittle Hall (Building 3116) for In- Processing, Reservoir #3, the overflow parking area on Academy Drive (west of athletic fields), and the area east of fire station 1.

1.2.1.2 FALCON STADIUM PARKING LOTS

The contractor shall mow the stadium parking lots prior to graduation and prior to the first home football game and as needed through the duration of the football season. After mowing the stadium parking lots for graduation, the contractor shall not mow the stadium parking lots again until prior to the first home football game. The contractor shall mow the stadium parking lots prior to the first home football game such that the mowing is complete no earlier than (3) weeks prior to the game or no later than (2) weeks prior to the game.

1.2.2 TRIM

The contractor shall trim grass and weeds around trees, shrubs, buildings, fences, poles, fire hydrants, parking lots bumper blocks, boulders, and other fixed obstacles and temporary obstacles/objects on semi - improved grounds. Trimming height shall match surrounding area grass height. All areas shall be trimmed concurrent with mowing.

1.2.3 BASE PERIMETER FENCE LINE

Reserved

1.3 MAINTAIN BIRD AREA STRIKE HAZARD (BASH)

BASH are identified in Appendix A and B.

1.3.1 MOW

Grass, weeds, and vegetation shall be maintained between (7) and (14) inches. The grass shall not be shorter than (7) inches in height to prevent dust and debris on the airfield and never be more than (14) inches in height to prevent bird habitation. The contractor shall begin mowing operations at the active Airfield surfaces and move to the outermost area. This causes insects and animals to move toward the inside of the field and away from the runway. The contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that all foreign objects and debris produced by grounds maintenance is cleared off all taxiways, and aircraft parking aprons before leaving the work area.

1.3.2 AIRFIELD LIGHT FIXTURES

The contractor shall maintain a 10-foot-wide path between (4) and (6) inches 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. 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.

1.3.3 HERBICIDES AND INSECTICIDES

The contractor shall follow the BASH plan to minimize seeds and flowers that attract insects/birds.

The CO/COR to review and approval the timing and frequency of herbicide/insecticide products.

The contractor shall use only approved products as stated in DoD Instruction 4150.07, DoD Pest Management Program, Encl 4 para 4.2.2 and AFI 32-1053, Pest Management Program, para 4.7.4 and 4.7.6. All pesticides, herbicides, and rodenticides are defined in DoD and Air Force documents. The contractor shall comply with current federal, state, local, DoD, and Air Force regulations, plans, and policies. The contractor shall comply with all applicable parts of 29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1910, Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Standards, 29 CFR 1925, Labor, Safety and Health Standards for Federal Service Contracts, 40 CFR 150-189, Protection of Environment, Pesticide Program, and 49 CFR 171, Transportation, General Information, Regulations, and Definitions. The contractor shall ensure that all workers have current state certification for the pest control services being performed. Civil Engineer Asset Management Flight must approve all herbicides/insecticides prior to use.

1.3.4 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.

1.3.5 FLIGHT-LINE DRIVERS

Training must 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 always. Vehicles must have a valid 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 ensuring that all foreign objects and debris produced by grounds maintenance is cleared off all taxiways, runways, and aircraft parking aprons before leaving the work area.

1.3.6 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 (150) feet of the runway. The contractor shall provide all communication equipment required for this contract.

The government shall provide the transceiver frequency to the contractor. All equipment shall be VHF type with a minimum (5) mile range and shall have private line capability. The contractor shall be responsible for any changes to radio types that the base makes during this contract, i.e.

frequency changes. The contractor shall respond immediately to the directions of the Air Traffic Control tower personnel.

1.4 MAINTAIN UN-IMPROVED GROUNDS

Un-improved grounds are identified in Appendix A and B. The contractor to mow grass and vegetation in un-improved grounds to prevent woody encroachment. The contractor shall mow un-improved grounds once per year to a height between (10) and (14) inches.

1.4.1 TRASH AND DEBRIS REMOVAL

The contractor shall remove trash and debris on a quarterly basis from the USAFA boundary fence line at South Gate, located between the Hotel and Cracker Barrel. The contractor is responsible to remove trash that is visible from the road and WILL NOT go in to homeless camps. The contractor shall use Government furnished dumpsters to remove collected trash bags. The contractor also assumes that if this is funded that some of the Basic Services will be halted for no longer than (3) business days until this operation is completed.

1.5 MAINTAIN VEGETATIVE BEDS, INERT BEDS, ROCK BEDS AND RELATED AREAS

The contractor shall maintain vegetative beds, inert beds, rock beds, and related areas as identified in Appendix A and B to present a neat and professional appearance. Maintenance activities may include but are not limited to fertilizing, watering, weeding, mulching, and repairing or replacing of damaged plants and shrubs. When replacing plants, shrubs, and performing repairs, conform to good xeriscaping practices for the area.

1.6 MAINTAIN SURFACE DRAINAGE DITCHES

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

1.7 PERFORM SNOW/ICE REMOVAL

The contractor shall clear snow and ice from all sidewalks, steps, stairs, landings, and entrance ramps as identified in Appendix A and J. The contractor shall ensure a pathway of (3) feet wide is free of snow accumulation, piles, or drifts by removing all snow and ice from sidewalks, steps, stairs, landings, and entrance ramps, IAW installation Snow and Ice Control Plan (S&ICP). The snow in Priority 1 areas (Appendix A and J), shall be removed when accumulation exceeds (1) inch or within (1) hour after snowfall stops. For areas identified as Priority 2 (Appendix A and J), the contractor shall remove snow when accumulation reaches (3) inches or within (2) hours after the snowfall stops. This may require multiple snow/ice removals each day. When snowfall is heavy or accumulations become excessive, the contractor shall place excess snow in approved snow dump locations to be coordinated with the CO or COR.

1.7.1 BASIC SERVICES

The contractor shall self-monitor weather through national and local weather sources to include 306 OSS and remain aware of weather trends and factors that create the potential for hazardous snow or ice accumulation and self-respond.