Mountain Home National Shrine Sow Project FY2023.docx

-SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

Contractor shall provide all labor, supervision, equipment; materials and supplies to remove, clean, raise, realign, and reset designated upright headstones and flat stones; as well as renovate the designated memorial section (Brownlow Circle) of turf (Approx. +/- 16,000sqft) in the historical side of the Mountain Home National Cemetery, Mountain Home, Tennessee.

Price Schedule of Services

CLIN 0001 Base: Period of Performance- 365 Days

Description:

Grounds Maintenance Services

EST.

Quantity

Renovate designated section of turf within the Memorial Section; turf area consisting of approximately +/-16000 sqft. with Zeon zoysia turf.

Removing, cleaning, raising, realigning, and resetting the upright headstones and floral vases that are already in place in sections I, J, K, L, RR, QQ (Approximately 2217 upright headstones)

Removing, cleaning, raising, realigning, and resetting the flat headstones markers and floral vases that are already in place in section L.

GENERAL INFORMATION

C.1. Purpose:

C.1.1 The Department of Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration honors veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our Nation. National cemeteries are national shrines. The standards of maintenance, appearance and operational procedures performed by the contractor at this cemetery shall reflect this nation’s concern for those interred there. For this reason, the contractor’s strict adherence to the specifications shall be required and shall be essential.

C.1.2 Summary of Work:

A. Contractor will renovate designated section of turf within the Memorial Section (Brownlow Circle) in the historical side of cemetery; turf area consisting of approximately +/-16000 sqft. with Zeon zoysia turf.

B. The work consists of removing, cleaning, raising, realigning, and resetting the upright headstones and floral vases that are already in place in sections I, J, K, L, RR, QQ (Approximately 2,217 upright headstones).

C. The work consists of removing, cleaning, raising, realigning, and resetting the flat headstones and floral vases that are already in place in section L (approx. 394).

C.1.3 The contractor shall provide all supervision, professional advice/guidance, labor, parts, materials, equipment, and personnel, to provide these services.

C.2 Cemetery Location: These services will be performed at:

Mountain Home National Cemetery 53 Memorial Ave Mountain Home, TN 37684

SEE ATTACHMENTS AND BURIAL SECTION DRAWINGS.

C.3 General Requirements:

C.3.1 Site Manager: A “Site Manager” provided by the Contractor shall be at the work site whenever work is being performed. The “Site Manager” must have a minimum of five (5) years’ experience as a direct supervisor of a commercial landscaping operation that included surveying, soil excavation, and site construction in industrial, commercial, or public sites. The “Site Manager” will ensure all specifications are being met, ensure contract work does not conflict with ceremonies and funerals, and ensure employees are adequately supervised and proper conduct is maintained. At all times when any performance of the work at the site is being conducted by any employee of the Contractor or his subcontractors, the Contractor shall have a representative (this person may or may not be the “Site Manager”) present who has the capability of receiving instructions in the English language, fluently speaking the English language and explaining the work operations to persons performing the work in the language that those performing the work are capable of understanding. The Contracting officer shall have the right to determine whether the proposed representative has sufficient technical and bilingual capabilities, and the Contractor shall immediately replace any individual not acceptable to the Contracting Officer.

C.3.2 Work Hours: Normal working hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST Monday through Friday. All work will be scheduled within normal work hours of the work week, Monday through Friday only. Additional work hours of the work week, Monday through Friday may be authorized for the convenience of the Contractor upon approval of the COR in writing. Any request for weekend work (Saturday or Sunday) must be approved at the SED management level. However, the Government will not be responsible for any increases in Contractor costs due to overtime, shift differential, or holiday pay.

C.3.4 Contractor Response Times:

C.3.4.1 During Normal Working Hours. The Contractor shall be prepared to shift workers and work areas as necessary to safeguard the cemetery and its visitors and restore the work area(s) to a safe condition. The Contractor shall respond to all normal working hours’ requests made by the COR within 30 minutes of the initial notification.

C.3.4.3 Calls by other Government employees other than the COR shall not be acted upon but shall be referred to the COR for review. Repairs shall begin as expeditiously as circumstances allow and should normally be completed within (24) hours of the initial emergency call. The Contractor shall keep the COR fully informed of the situation and what action will be taken to secure and correct the situation.

C.3.5 Scheduled Ceremonies and Events. A list of scheduled ceremonies will be provided the week prior to the event, and a list of scheduled funerals and other events will be provided the day prior to the service. The Contractor has responsible for staying abreast of all such upcoming events and when in doubt, shall contact the COR for clarification.

C.3.6 Disruption of ceremonies, funerals, and other special events. The Contractor is responsible for ensuring that no contract work causes any funeral, ceremony, procession, or visitation to be delayed, altered, or otherwise impacted in such a way that the dignity or security of the event is compromised.

C.3.7 Meetings. The Contractor shall coordinate with the COR on a regular basis to ensure that work in proceeding satisfactorily and that the work will not interfere with any scheduled ceremonies, funerals, or processions. Meetings will be scheduled at least as frequently as shown below and may be requested by either party at any time. Participants in these meetings are not limited to the Site Manager and COR but may include additional Contractor or Government Personnel as required.

Daily: To report on work completed, establish a work schedule and to ensure that no work is being performed at the immediate site of a scheduled interment or ceremony. These daily meetings are also an opportunity for the Contractor to ask questions and ensure he/she understands the off-limit areas, which may vary, depending on the event.

Weekly: To propose work to be done during the coming week, receive the schedule of upcoming ceremonies, discuss work progress and other items as appropriate.

C.3.8 Record Keeping and Reporting. The Site Manager or his designee shall provide the COR with weekly written accurate reports identifying work completed during the past seven days including the following: All upright headstone/markers that will be raise/realigned as well as all floral vases that were removed/replaced and the sq. yards. of turf renovation (gravesite renovation) shall be recorded per gravesite location and a proposed plan of work for the upcoming week.

C.3.9 Licenses: Permits; Vehicle, Liability and Workman’s Compensation Insurance. The Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining all necessary and current licenses, permits, vehicular insurance and registration, Workman’s Compensatory Liability Insurance, property liability insurance etc., prior to the start date of this service. The contractor shall provide the Contracting Officer copies of these policies before commencing work.

C.3.10 Utility Location. Prior to commencing any excavation or turf removal operations, the Contractor shall confirm the location of any utilities in the work area. Utilities include potable water systems, electrical power, gas, and water and sewer lines. A utility locator company may be brought in to assist in this process at the sole expense of the Contractor.

C.3.11 New Installed Irrigation System. Contractor will test system and provide to COR certification that newly installed irrigation system is functioning according to company specs. No turfgrass is to be laid until the new irrigation system has been installed and fully functioning and approved by the COR. (*Note: If the water system of the cemetery is not functioning properly or insufficient water is not available on-site, contractor must secure other water sources and supply needed water by Water truck or other means at contractors’ choice.

C.3.12 Contractor Equipment. The Contractor shall not operate trucks, tractors, and other heavy equipment more than five tons on any turf area except when authorized in writing by the COR.

C.3.13 Erosion Control. Contractor shall Install and maintain erosion control material/methods to meet local requirements. Copies of these requirements may be reviewed by contacting the COR.

C.3.14 The Contractor shall provide adequate warning devices, signage, barricades, guards, flagmen or other necessary precautions, as determined by the COR for the protection, safety, and warning to all pedestrians and vehicular traffic within the area. At least four signs will be provided and erected by the Contractor on the perimeter of the burial section being worked on to indicate to the public of work in progress. Signs will have the following wording: “CAUTION: RAISE & RE-ALIGHN/TURF RENOVATION PROJECT!” Signs are to be aluminum, 12” height, 18” width, 2-inch reflective black letters on white background, mounted on a post with the top of the sign 48” from the ground surface.

C.3.15 The Contractor is responsible to ensure that all work shall be done in a manner that safeguards all VA visitors, employees, and public. The Contractor shall be solely responsible for any and all actions initiated and/or completed by his/her employees. Furthermore, the contractor and his/her employees shall have a clear understanding of, and be sensitive to, such environmental issues as ground water contamination, wetlands, etc., and be consistent and fully compliant with all applicable Federal, State laws, ordinances, Right-to-Know laws, EPA guidelines, and regulations.

C3.16 The Cemetery Director/Representative will have the right to stop work pending weather conditions at any time. This is required to maintain the dignity of the cemetery and the appearance of the grounds.

C3.17 The Contractor shall schedule an on-site session(s) with the COR to review site conditions; handling, numbering, placement of floral vases; and any other Contractual requirements as determined by either the Contractor or COR prior to beginning work.

C.4 Work Scheduling:

C.4.1 Upon receiving Notice To Proceed (NTP) under this contract, the Contractor and Site Manager shall contact the COR to visit the site and plan the work schedule. The contractor will have all work/services completed, not to exceed 365 calendar days.

C.4.2 In planning the work schedule, the following standards will apply:

C.4.2.1 Provide schedule of sod installation.

C.4.2.2 All contract work MUST be completed as required under this contract in the Burial Section/Border Areas (designated on the contract drawings and provided to the Contractor by the Contracting Officer and/or COTR.

C.4.3 Work Activity Sequence: In burial sections where work consists of irrigation installation and Surface/Turf Renovation -- The Contractor shall submit proposed sequence of work activities to COR for approval prior to starting work. New irrigation system must be installed and fully functioning before any turf work beings.

C.4.3.1 The contractor shall provide a schedule of re-surveying of any permanent gravesite control monumentation that has been disrupted in each section from the turf renovation or irrigation installation process. All re-surveying will be at the contractor’s expense.

C.4.3.2 The contractor shall provide a schedule of any headstone miss-alignment problem cause by the turf renovation process. The COR will supply contractor headstone spec (height and tolerances per request). Any adjustment to headstones caused by the turf renovation process as well as any cleaning of headstones will be at the contractor’s expense. (*Note: No headstone shall be removed or leave the individual gravesite).

C.4.4 “Work Hours: Work shall be performed between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except for Holidays, unless otherwise directed by the COR. At Contractor request and with the written permission of the COR, work shall also be permitted to be scheduled for weekends and/or Holidays. When emergency situations, that are caused by the Contractor or severe adverse weather prohibits work during the week, then he/she must obtain approval from the COR to work on weekends in order to meet the period of performance. The Government will not compensate the Contractor for any alternate work schedules needed for the Contractor to complete all contract work within the specified project duration time frame. No work is permitted on Veterans Day and Memorial Day and the two days immediately prior to Memorial Day for preparation. Notwithstanding, if any work under this contract shall be performed outside of the VA’s normal working hours (8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday), then Contractor must notify the COR at least 48 hours in advance. Federal Holidays: Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King, Jr., Presidents Day” or something to this affect.

C.4.6.3 Prior to departing the work site(s) for the Memorial Day shut down period, the Contractor shall ensure the work area(s) are safe and presentable to the public.

C.5 All sod renovation/work shall be performed during the active growing season (time periods) of the turf/grass. (For Zoysia grass that is April-September) All sod installed after September 15th and before May 15th will not be inspected or accepted by the COR until the following spring green-up/growing season has begun, and the sod has rooted and sustained no damage from the winter. At this time, the COR will inspect the sod sections and accept or not accept said sections.

C.6 Phasing and Work Sequencing: Contract work shall be accomplished in a sequenced manner, with work limited to occurring in no more than one burial section (Turf renovation work) at any given time to minimize overall disruption to the cemetery. Requests to work on more than one burial section at a time may be submitted to the COR for approval. Approval/disapproval will be based on the impact to the cemetery operations and the progress and workmanship of the contractor, as determined by the COR. Work cannot begin in subsequent sections until such time that work has been completed in prior sections. Submit proposed project work schedule sequence for COR review and approval prior to start of project.

C.6.1 Record Keeping and Reporting. The Contractor's Project Manager designee shall provide the COR with weekly written accurate reports detailing the section and range of graves in that specific week. These lists will be provided on not less than a weekly basis and shall identify all the above work that took place within the previous seven calendar days. Upon request, the Project Manager will also provide a plan of action for the upcoming week.

a. All temporary markers, floral, commemorative, buried permanent floral vases, or other types of decorations and arrangements causing interference with the turf renovation operation shall be carefully, and in an orderly manner moved from, and per completion of work, moved back to all gravesites by the Contractor. Contractor may be required to probe each grave site before turf removal to locate floral vases. This is to ensure that floral vases are placed back on the correct burial site. Prior to removal, the Contractor shall verify the location of the items and associated decorations by using tags and a permanent ink marker indicating from which grave the item was removed as well as a graph, notating from which grave each floral vase came from. This is to be coordinated with the COR. *Note (No headstone/marker shall be removed from the individual gravesite.

b. Any upright headstones broken or damaged by the Contractor shall be reported to the COR or CO by close of business each working day in order that the grave can be properly marked. The Contractor shall be responsible for the cost of the headstone replacement. All headstone replacements must be coordinated with the COR. Any grid or sectional monuments disturbed, displaced or broken shall be replaced by the Contractor at his cost. All grid or sectional monuments disturbed, etc., shall be properly reset by a licensed land surveyor at Contractor's expense. Curbs, roads, walks, turf, trees, utilities, etc. existing above and below the ground that are damaged or disturbed by the Contractor during performance of contract work shall be repaired at the expense of the Contractor. Repairs to the above shall be corrected by the Contractor within fourteen (14) workdays, unless otherwise agreed to with the COR.

C.7 UPRIGHT HEADSTONE/ FLAT MARKER REALIGNMENT, RESETTING, BACKFILL

C.7.1 Overview: This section outlines Upright Headstone/Marker realignment requirements. Raise, Lower, Realignment, Reset, Clean and Backfill services consist of extracting, resetting, aligning, backfilling and tamping/compacting upright headstones that are already in place which have shifted out of vertical and/or horizontal alignment and plumb, as well as inventorying and assuring accurate placement of gravesites at the National Cemetery. The Contractor shall provide all supervision, professional advice/guidance labor, parts, materials, equipment, and personnel necessary to provide the services defined herein. . (*Note: No headstone shall be removed from the gravesite, headstone must be supported and not allow to rest on the ground/turf) .

C.8. Phasing and Work Sequencing: All work is to be accomplished in a sequential manner, with work limited to no more than six (6) burial rows of a section at any given time to minimize overall disruption to the cemetery. Requests to work on more than six (6) rows in a section at one time or move to another section before finishing previous section may be submitted to the COR for approval. Approval/disapproval will be based on the impact to the cemetery operations and the progress and workmanship of the contractor, as determined by the COR. Work cannot begin in subsequent rows until such time that work has been completed in prior areas. Submit proposed project work schedule sequence for COR review and approval prior to start of project.

C.8.1 Record Keeping and Reporting: The Contractor's Project Manager Designee shall provide the COR(s) with weekly written accurate reports detailing the section and range of graves in that specific week. These lists will be provided on not less than a weekly basis and shall identify all the above work that took place within the previous seven calendar days. Upon request, the Project Manager will also provide a plan of action for the upcoming week, regarding headstone/marker locations and specific areas where work is being scheduled to occur.

C.9. Upright Headstone Specifications: Raise, lower, realign, reset, and backfill of upright headstones shall be accomplished as follows:

(a) Standard upright marble headstones are approximately 42 inches long, 13 inches wide, 4 inches thick, and weigh approximately 230 pounds. Contractor will immediately report any pre-existing damage to the COR.

(b) All temporary markers, floral, commemorative, buried permanent floral vases, or other types of decorations and arrangements causing interference with the raise and realignment of upright headstone operation shall be carefully, and in an orderly manner moved from, and per completion of work, moved back to all gravesites by the Contractor. Prior to removal, the Contractor shall verify the numbering sequence and location of the headstone and associated decorations by using tags and a permanent ink marker indicating from which grave the item was removed.

(c) Headstones will be removed from their sockets by using wooden, and or metal clamps. If metal clamps are used the area that contacts the headstone must be protected with a rigid fabric that will prevent damage to, and marking of, the headstone. Clamps may be attached to a Bob Cat or similar Machine to extract headstone from socket. Extreme care will be used not to scratch or damage headstones in any manner. Contractor is responsible for restoring all damages caused to turf and headstones during performance of this work. Headstones are to be raised, realigned, and lowered in the following manner:

(1) All headstones are to be extracted from the socket. ALL sockets are to be re-dug by hand to allow for a 3” perimeter around all sides of the headstone and to a sufficient depth so that a 3" compacted base can be established, allowing the stone to extend out of the ground at a height of 24-26 inches to the top of the arch on the standard headstone (Note: In areas where smaller than standard size headstones may occur, Contractor shall coordinate specified measurements and dimensions of required work with COR.)

(2) Moistened Crushed Limestone Base Material (graded aggregate sizes ranging from crushed fines up to ¼" maximum) will be placed around all sides of the headstones and in the bottom of the socket before being thoroughly tamped to full compaction at each three (3) inch vertical interval, leaving the last 3 inches at the top to have tamped topsoil. The government will not provide any material. The Contractor is required to provide these materials. (Note: Moist Class II Road Base may be considered as an alternate.

Contractor shall obtain approval from the COR for any substitute base material).

(3) Straight Rows: Headstones shall be set vertically plumb in all directions, in all cases in a line vertically and laterally, and where possible transversely (coordinate with COR), with headstones of other graves using a top string, a back of headstone string line, and a side of headstone string line. Maximum vertical, lateral, and transverse tolerance of any headstone off the alignment string lines and/or marks shall be 1/8" or less. All measurements and string line set ups shall be taken from established section layout control points, not from previously set headstones, unless otherwise directed by the COR. In situations whereas there is no monumentation, a top string shall be centered over the arc of the headstone for vertical alignment. The consistency of the row will be used as the medium. At no time, will any headstone be reset in a totally new socket unless otherwise directed by the COR. Raised and realigned headstones in all soil and terrain shall be firmly in place so that headstones are rigid with no give or play.

(4) Irregular Terrain: When sloping and uneven ground conditions exist in burial sections, all headstones and markers will be set at field approved heights and levels using multiple keystones, back strings, top strings, and side strings to provide a flowing transition through uneven terrain. Field guidance will be provided by the COR upon the written request from the Contractor. The established field guidance will overrule the height requirements that will be found in other parts of this specification.

(5) Handling of Headstones: Prior to ANY removal of the existing headstones or makers from any row, the Contractor MUST verify to the COR’s satisfaction that permanent gravesite control monumentation has been established AND approval of the Contractor provided as-built drawings has been obtained IN WRITING from the Contracting Officer and/or the COR’s.

(6) In cases where headstone sockets need to be realigned/shifted, and/or re-dug, the headstone sockets (holes) to receive headstones shall be dug by hand and/or mechanical devices to a sufficient depth so that 24-26 inches of the headstone is extending from the topsoil level of the sod to the top of the arc on the headstone. Contractor shall not dig a headstone socket wider than twelve (12) inches, twenty (20) inches in length, or exceed a depth of 20 inches that may cause the headstone to settle below height requirement.

(7) The measurements between rows of headstones and headstones within each row may differ from one section to the next, discuss with COR where this is found to occur. These measurements must be adhered to as closely as possible. Some variances may be allowed to keep a uniform appearance of headstones being aligned. Headstones will be accurately and precisely reinstalled on the correct gravesites with the utilization of temporary grave plotting maps, existing permanent control markers where available and temporary Contractor installed control markers accurately and precisely installed at the ends of each gravesite row.

(8) The realign crew is to start on a row of headstones close to the center of the section to be realigned. Headstones are chosen to be "key" stones. These keystones are ones that are visibly in line with most the rest of the headstones in the row and are as close as possible to the proper measurements for that section of headstones. "Key" stones are to be chosen and utilized at a maximum of every 10th headstone (or more frequently in areas of rolling terrain). These keystones are then aligned by leveling front and back and side-to-side, and raised or lowered to a height of 24-26(or other measurement designated by COR) inches above topsoil level (this includes topsoil on sod).

(9) At the start of work in each burial section, the first row of reset/realigned headstones in each burial section is to be inspected by COR for appearance, spacing, depth, alignment, plumbness, height, accuracy, and smoothness in grade transition. No further setting of headstones shall be done until this first row has been inspected and accepted by the COR. It is the Contractors responsibility to notify the COR 24 hours in advance of when each of these inspections will be needed.

(10) Tape measures and Heavy strings or lines must run along the backs, sides, and tops of these keystones. The Contractor shall mark the lines with the proper measurements for the section being aligned. All remaining headstones in the row are then aligned along the strings front to back and side-to-side even with the measured marks on the line. Each headstone is leveled and plumbed front to back and side-to-side keeping the back of the headstone along the string and the side of the headstone along the measured mark. Maximum vertical, lateral, and transverse tolerance of any headstone off the alignment string lines and/or marks shall be 1/8", or less. Each headstone is also raised or lowered as necessary to ensure a uniform measurement of 24-26 inches above topsoil level to include topsoil of sod. The headstone is then aligned along the string front to back and side-to-side even with the measured mark on the line. The headstone is leveled and plumbed front to back and side-to-side keeping the back of headstone along the string and the side of the headstone along the measured mark.

(11) The alignment of the headstones shall be checked frequently during this process because the tamping may move the headstone out of level or off the mark on the line. This process of raising and realigning is repeated for each row of headstones. Upright headstones in all completed work areas shall be firmly set and anchored in place with no movement from forces subjected by the COR.

(12) Any upright headstones broken or damaged by the Contractor shall be reported to the Cemetery Administrator or COR by close of business each working day in order that the grave can be properly marked. The Contractor shall be responsible for the cost of the headstone replacement. All headstone replacements must be coordinated with the COR. Any grid or sectional monuments disturbed, displaced or broken shall be replaced by the Contractor at his cost. All grid or sectional monuments disturbed, etc., shall be properly reset by a licensed land surveyor at Contractor's expense. Curbs, roads, walks, turf, trees, utilities, etc. existing above and below the ground that are damaged or disturbed by the Contractor during performance of contract work shall be repaired at the expense of the Contractor. Repairs to the above shall be corrected by the Contractor within fourteen (14) workdays, unless otherwise agreed to with the COR.

C.10 Headstone/Marker Cleaning:

The VA is the authority on determining what is clean and what is not clean. The definition of a “clean stone” is that the stone has no dirt lines or watermarks and no visible signs of fungi. Cleaning will be accomplished with the use of a high-pressure washer (pressure not to exceed 800 PSI) and an acceptable cleaning agent that that does not harm the stone and that is environmentally acceptable. The cleaning will consist of the removal of stains, dirt, grass, or fungi leaving the marker undamaged and in a clean, acceptable condition. Will be completed with the use of a high-pressured washer (not to exceed 800 PSI) and an acceptable cleaning agent that doesn’t harm the grave marker and/or turf. The cleaning will consist of the removal of stains, dirt, grass, or fungi leaving the marker undamaged and in an acceptable appearance. Cleaning may be completed either before storage of the markers or after re-installation. If cleaning is accomplished after re-installation, the Contractor shall be responsible for any turf or sod damaged during the cleaning process. The Contractor shall be responsible for any turf or sod damaged during the cleaning process.

C.11 Guaranty: The Contractor shall guaranty all work for a period of one year (365 calendar days) after final inspection and acceptance of the entire project by the Government. Any headstone adjust, realign, reset, and/or backfill workmanship that does not meet the specified requirements (including specified tolerance requirements) at the end of this guaranty period is to be reworked, adjusted, and corrected by the Contractor at no additional cost to the government. Remainder of all other work related to this project is to be warranted for a period of one (1) year after final acceptance by the government. Work performed under the Guaranty shall be corrected within ten (10) workdays from receipt of notification or as directed by the COR.

C.12 Flat Marker Specifications

PROCEDURES – RAISE AND RE-ALIGHN FLAT MARKERS

(a) The responsibility for ordering markers, checking for proper wording and initial inspections for damages shall be that of the COR or his authorized representative. Inventory and inspection for proper inscription and damage shall be the responsibility of the Contractor and should be accomplished not more than two days after receipt.

(b) Contractor shall be responsible for removal of any glue or crating material from the stones that may adhere to the surface.

(c) Each marker shall be placed to rest on the long edge in a horizontal freestanding position for easy accessibility. If there is any breakage or damage in any form due to the Contractor’s handling or negligence, the cost for replacement will be borne by the Contractor. The COR will be notified of any defective markers. Defective markers will not be set without the COR authorization.

(d) Flat Markers for individual graves shall be set on the centerline at the head of the grave with the inscription facing the grave. In addition, markers shall be set plum and aligned laterally, transversely and diagonally with the markers on surrounding graves. Measurements shall be taken from existing markers as directed by the COR. Flat markers in old sections of National Cemeteries where such markers have not been and cannot be set at the standard height shall be set at the same distance above the ground as the adjacent markers, provided they can be set with the inscription above the ground level.

(e) In Accordance with National Cemetery Administration’s Standards and Measures for Flat Marker installation, flat markers will be set zero to one inch above final grade.

(g) Trees or shrubs obstructing markers shall be noted and the COR notified for determination of remedial action, and any modification needed for installation of a marker. All marker sockets will be excavated by hand or mechanical means to allow for one-eight perimeters along all sides of the marker and a sufficient depth to accommodate a zero to one inch placement at finish grade.

NOTE: All large embedded objects such as boulders, rocks greater than 1 inch and tree roots found in the subgrade shall be removed to a minimum depth of six (3) inches below the finished subgrade elevation and the space shall be backfilled with suitable material which shall be thoroughly compacted.

(h) A crushed aggregate base of maximum ¼ inch will be placed beneath and around all sides of the marker after being thoroughly tamped to full compaction. (Note: Class II road base may be considered as an alternate. Contractor shall obtain approval from COR for any substitute base material). All measurements and string line shall be taken from layout control points, unless directed by the COR.

(i) All temporary markers, floral arrangements, flags or other types of gravesite decorations shall be carefully, and in an orderly manner moved from, and per completion of work, moved back & REINSTALLED to all gravesites by the Contractor. Prior to removal, the Contractor shall verify the numbering sequence and location of the markers and associated decorations.

(j) Flat markers are to be reset to a depth so that no more than one inch (1”) of the top of granite marker is extending above the finished topsoil level. All measurements and string line set-ups shall be taken from section layout control markers, unless directed by the COR.

(k) All measurements shall be made in ascending grave number order. In irregular terrain where sloping and uneven ground conditions exist, all flat markers will be set up to surface at proper heights and levels to provide a uniform flowing transition through uneven terrain. Two (2) to three (3) inches of clean topsoil will be placed around the perimeter of each flat marker base and firmly tamped, leaving the top inch for sod and then lightly to moderately tamped, then lightly raked and flat marker swept clean.

(l) Flat Marker Placement: Flat marker sockets shall be completed to proper grade and alignment as described in paragraph (d) prior to the reinstallation of the flat marker to the required depth. Markers shall be accurately and precisely reinstalled on the correct gravesites with the utilization of temporary grave plotting maps. Flat markers shall be set horizontally flat, in a line laterally, transversely, and diagonally with flat markers of other graves. All measurements and string line set-ups shall be taken from section layout control markers, unless directed by the COR. All measurements shall be made in ascending grave number order. In irregular terrain where sloping and uneven ground conditions exist, all flat markers will be set at proper heights and levels to provide a uniform flowing transition through uneven terrain. After all work has been completed, the flat markers in all soil and terrain conditions shall be held firmly in place by the compacted soil (crushed limestone base material) (or approved substitute) so that the flat markers are rigid with no give, play or movement when subjected to forces by the COR.

(m) New or replacement flat markers shall be properly aligned with four flat markers -- one marker immediately to the left, one marker immediately to the right and shall be in perfect alignment with the flat marker directly above and below. The flat marker will set parallel with the contour of the ground, and be raised or lowered as necessary to ensure uniformity of no more than one inch above topsoil level. The flat marker is squared front to back, side to side, keeping the (TOP) HEAD & SIDE of the marker along the heavy string line.

(n) Alignment of the flat marker should be checked frequently during this process to ensure that the marker is not out of alignment. Flat markers shall be firmly set and anchored in place with no movement from force subjected by the COR.

C.15 Turf Renovation- Memorial Section (Brownlow Circle):

C.15.1 Vegetation Removal: Existing turf is to be sprayed with a short acting non-selected herbicide designed to eliminate turf and weeds (The product “Round-up cannot be used in the cemetery). All existing turf and weeds must be eradicated before stripping of topsoil and dead vegetation. Application to be applied by a licensed applicator to ensure appropriate rates of application and other State regulated requirements.

C.15.2 Stripping Topsoil: Strip two to four (2-4) inches of topsoil from within limits of work area and remove from work site each day. New topsoil shall be a fertile, friable, natural topsoil of loamy character and characteristic of locality. Topsoil shall be capable of growing healthy horticultural crops of grasses. Stockpile topsoil and protect as directed by COR or designee. Eliminate foreign materials, such as dead grass, weeds, roots, stones, subsoil, frozen clods, and similar foreign materials larger than 25 mm (1 inch) in any dimension from topsoil that will be used in final grading. Topsoil work, such as stripping, stockpiling, and similar topsoil work shall not, under any circumstances, be carried out when soil is wet so that tilth of soil will be destroyed. Topsoil removed from the work area may be stored in a temporary on-site location designated by the COR(s) until removal from cemetery site at the end of work day.

C.15.3 Lines and Grades: Area must be tilled, graded and compacted to a level to provide a flowing transition through existing terrain (no depression or low line areas). A Registered Professional Land Surveyor or Registered Civil Engineer shall establish lines and grades for approval by COR and designee. Grading shall provide a smooth transition at curbs, trees, planters and uninterrupted drainage flow into existing drains. Contractor shall notify COR or designee of any differences before requesting approval of lines and grades. Subsequent to establishment of lines and grades and COR or designee approval, Contractor will be responsible for any additional cut and/or fill required to ensure that site is graded to ensure that surface water drainage will drain to existing storm drains and that they are no standing water areas throughout the sections (such as depression and sunken graves).

C.15.4 Filling and Back filling: Do not fill or backfill until all foreign materials have been removed from excavation. For fill and backfill use excavated materials and top soil as applicable. Do not use unsuitable excavated materials such as topsoil, construction materials and material subject to decomposition, clods of clay and stones larger than 1-inch, organic materials including silts which are unstable, and inorganic materials including silts, too wet to be stable.

C.15.5 Compaction: Compact with approved tamping rollers, sheep-foot rollers, pneumatic tired rollers, steel wheeled rollers, or other approved equipment (hand or mechanized) well suited to soil being compacted. Do not operate mechanized vibratory compaction equipment, which may damage existing liners or caskets. Sub-grade must be thoroughly tamped to compaction.

C.15.6 Topsoil: Topsoil shall be a well-graded soil of good uniform quality. It shall be a natural, friable soil representative of productive soils in the vicinity. Topsoil shall be free of admixture of subsoil, foreign matter, objects larger than 25 mm (one inch) in any dimension, toxic substances, weeds and any material or substances that may be harmful to plant growth and shall have a pH value of not less than 6.0 nor more than 7.0. Testing for pH will be required by an approved laboratory. Copies of the pH tests shall be furnished to the COR(s) PRIOR to topsoil being placed. Amend topsoil not meeting the pH range specified by the addition of pH Adjusters. Top-dress is to be organic matter, weed free consistent with irrigation requirements to promote healthy grass. If sufficient topsoil is not available on the site to meet the depth as specified herein, the Contractor shall furnish additional topsoil. At least 10 days prior to topsoil delivery, notify the COR or designee of the source(s) from which topsoil is to be furnished. Obtain topsoil from well-drained areas.

C.15.7 Installation of Topsoil: After tilling the soil for bonding of topsoil with the subsoil, spread four (4) inches of topsoil evenly over prepared site. Incorporate topsoil into the subsoil to avoid soil layering. Do not spread topsoil when it is excessively wet or dry. Correct irregularities in finished surfaces to eliminate depressions. Protect finished topsoil areas from damage by vehicular or pedestrian traffic. Complete lawn work only after areas are brought to finished grade. The areas within the drip lines of existing trees are not to be tilled at a depth greater than three inches or backfilled not to exceed four inches from existing grades. Contractor must protect all trees, shrubs and plants. Exceptions must be approved by COR. Incorporate fertilizers and lime into the soil to a depth of at least 100 mm (4 inches) as part of the finish grading operation. Immediately restore the soil to an even condition before any turf work.

C.15.8 Finish Grading, Sod and Sodding: Complete lawn works only after areas are brought to finished grade (approved by COR) and all vegetation has been eradicated. Sod shall be certified sod as classified in the TPI Guideline Specifications to Turf Grass Sodding. The composition of the grass species in the sod shall be the composition of the grass species in the sod shall be Zoysia grass (Zeon Cultivar). Two applications of fertilizers are required, one prior to sod placement (use a starter fertilizer 5-5-15 at the rate of 1 pound of nitrogen per 1000 square feet) and another application of fertilizer after the first mowing at 1 pound of nitrogen per 1000 square feet.

Prior to delivery of sod, the contractor shall have an interim inspection of the work area by the COR(s) and any discrepancies (grading, backfilling, headstone placement, etc.) shall be corrected prior to laying sod in the work area. Sod shall be delivered to the work site no more than one day prior to installation. Contractor shall make all necessary arrangements to protect delivered sod from excessive drying and wind damage. Sod shall we insect, disease and weed free. Sod shall be laid expeditiously without interruption, until the work area is completely sodded. Sod shall be cut and fitted around all flat markers and other obstructions. Sod should only be laid/rolled over bare moist soil with pieces laid in a staggered brick-like pattern and edges fitted tightly together to avoid any open cracks. Rolling and watering thoroughly is required by the contractor to insure good contact with the soil for fast rooting.

C.15.9 Sod around Trees: Care shall be taken not to damage tree roots. New sod will be laid no closer than 36 inches from tree trunk in a circular pattern. In instances where a greater diameter is required due to tree roots, prior approval will be obtained from the COR. Sod is to be installed in a circular pattern away from base of tree and surface root unless otherwise specified by the COR.

C.15.10 Floral vases: After installation of sod, Contractor shall ensure that all floral vases are at their proper and marked locations and are at finished grade. The contractor may have to probe each grave for location of buried vases.

C.15.11 Guaranty: The Contractor shall guarantee all turf work for a period of 90 calendar days after final inspection and acceptance of the entire project by the Government. Any turf work that does not meet the specified requirements at the end of this guaranty period is to be reworked, adjusted, and corrected by the Contractor at no additional cost to the government. Work performed under the Guaranty shall be corrected within ten (10) workdays from receipt of notification or as directed by the COR.

C.16 Turf Establishment Period:

The turf establishment period for each section completed shall begin no less than 30 days after the last piece of sod is laid in that section (the last sod laid in section must be verified and documented by the COR before start of establishment period can begin). The contractor may request a final of that section from the COR after the 30-day establishment period has ended. During the Turf Establishment Period the Contractor shall:

C.16.1 Water turf to maintain an adequate supply of moisture within the root zone. Apply water at a moderate rate so as not to displace the mulch or flood the plants and turf. The contractor is responsible for applying one quarter of an inch of water (1/4”) twice a day for a three-week period. The contractor shall supply all necessary watering equipment (to include hoses, sprinkler heads etc.) and labor to apply water.

C.16.2 Eradicate all weeds. Water, fertilize, overseed, and perform any other operation necessary to promote the growth of grass.

C.16.3 Replant areas void of turf 0.1 m2 (one square foot) and larger in area.

C.16.4 Mowing will be required by the contractor when grass reaches (3 inches) high. Mow to a (2 inch) height and take no more than 1/3 of the grass at any mowing. Contractor will be responsible for one mowing minimum or until an acceptable stand of grass is provided and accepted by the government.

C.16.5 The contractor shall not be held accountable or responsible for damage to the renovated areas caused by cemetery personnel.

C.17 Turf Maintenance Period:

C.17.1 The Contractor shall maintain the area 30 days after the 30-day establishment period ends for each section accepted by the COR. Maintenance shall include mowing the area when the grass reached a height of (3 inches). Mow to a (2 inch) height. The contractor shall take no more than 1/3 of the grass height at any mowing. The contractor shall also water the installed turf as required until the final acceptance.

C.17.2 The contractor shall be responsible for the health of the turf until final inspection and acceptance by the COR and make all necessary corrective actions at no expense to the government.

C.17.3 The contractor shall not be held accountable or responsible for damage to the renovated areas caused by cemetery personnel or actions.

C.17.4 Continue mowing and irrigation until sod is 100% established and is accepted by the COR. Germinated weeds must be eliminated by spraying with a typical three-way broadleaf herbicide combination product or with a post emergence herbicide for control of crabgrass or both if necessary, to achieve 100% turfgrass cover.

C.18 Clean Up and Repair Of Damaged Areas:

C.18.1 Upon completion of the work, the Contractor shall remove all debris, rubbish, and excess material from Cemetery Property.

C.18.2 A temporary storage site may be provided by the COR(s) for short-term storage (not to exceed two weeks).

C.18.3 At the end of each day the Contractor shall remove all debris from the work site and the cemetery. The Contractor shall always ensure that rubbish and trash generated by the Contractor is kept clear of vehicular and pedestrian traffic throughout the site. This may include sweeping or washing down the roadways of dirt and debris. The Government shall not provide receptacle(s) for disposal of debris related to this contract. All unsuitable/unusable materials are to be disposed of off station.

C.18.4 Contractors shall be responsible for cleaning any cemetery structures that are soiled or stained as a result of contractor’s performance. The Contractor shall wash-down with water all soiled or stained structures and grounds at the end of each workday. No chemicals are to be during the wash down. The Contractor shall bear all costs associated with washing and cleaning. Any such soiled or stained areas shall be brought to the immediate attention of the COR(s) prior to washing/cleaning.

C.18.5 In areas where planting and turf work have been completed, clear the area of all debris, Spoil piles, and containers. Clear all other paved areas when work in adjacent areas is completed.

Remove all debris, rubbish and excess material from the Cemetery.

C.18.6 Contractors shall be responsible for replacement of any cemetery structure, to include: turf, curb, road pavement, headstone or marker, valve boxes, control markers, sprinkler heads, which is chipped, marred, damaged and/or ruined at the fault of the Contractor shall bear all costs associated with replacement and reinstallation. Any such damage shall be brought to the immediate attention of the appointed COR(s) prior to repair/replacement/installation.

C.18.7 At the Government's discretion, the Contractor shall either repair or replace the property, or reimburse the Government the full amount for all property damage(s). The Contractor shall be aware that Government property - beyond standard structures and equipment - also includes markers, monuments, trees, beds, and turf, i.e. - wounded trees or scalped turf, roads, curbs, potable water system as well as headstones/markers shall be repaired or replaced.

C.18.8 The contractor and COR(s) shall inspect the trees and shrubbery of a schedule renovation area prior to the start of the renovation and note all abnormalities or existing conditions. Another inspection will be conducted after the completion of the renovation and the contractor will make all corrective actions to any noted damage.