Performance Work Statement Groundskeeping.docx

?.## PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

1. GENERAL SCOPE OF WORK

1.1. The Contractor shall supply all required labor, materials, tools, equipment, supplies and permits necessary to provide Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance Services at the Veterans Affairs (VA) Northern California Health Care System (VANCHCS).

1.2. Location of Work: Grounds maintenance services will be provided at the Veterans Affairs Northern California Health Care System (VANCHCS) facilities.

Veterans Affairs Northern California Health Care System (VANCHCS)

VANCHCS – Martinez 150 Muir Road Martinez, CA 94553 1,296,196 sq ft *This site has multiple buildings within multiple parking areas

VANCHCS- Stockton 7777 South Freedom Road French Camp, CA 95231 1,009,298 sq ft *This site has multiple buildings within multiple parking areas

VANCHCS – Mare Island 201 Walnut Ave., Mare Island, Vallejo, Ca. 94592 269,808 sq ft *This is a two story with two courtyards inside the building

VANCHCS - Mather 10535 Hospital Way Sacramento, CA 95655 2,767,355 sq ft

* This site has multiple buildings within multiple parking areas, and multiple plots

VANCHCS – McClellan Park 5342 Dudley Blvd., McClellan Park (AFB) 95652 1,513,332 sq ft *This site has 6 buildings, 98, 88, 209, 911, 28, & 949

1.3. Site specific work will be required as identified in Section 20. Contractor will be required to perform the ground maintenance on the entire site. Contractor shall be responsible for measuring the service areas of each location for the purpose of his quote.

1.4. Changes to the landscape maintenance areas may result from new landscape improvements, new facilities and other site changes which can result in an increase or decrease to services performed by an estimated 10% and will be considered within scope of this contract.

1.5. Changes that result in projected service increases of over 5% must be brought to the attention of the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) and Contracting Officer (CO) to determine if a contract modification is required.

1.6. Additional services not specified in this contract may be required to address other landscaping / grounds keeping needs, all landscaping / grounds keeping related services will be considered in-scope for purposes of adding by modification at a later date.

1.7. Disaster or Emergency- Contractor is responsible clearing, removing, and disposing of items like trees, plants, shrubs, debris, personal property, dirt, and mud.

2. DEFINITIONS

2.1. Federal Holidays - For the purposes of this contract are: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day, President’s Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth’s Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans’ Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. When Federal holidays fall on weekends, a weekday is typically designated as the holiday. Holidays that fall on Saturday are observed on the previous Friday and holidays that fall on a Sunday are observed on the following Monday.

2.2. Normal Business Hours are 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Monday through Friday.

2.3. Indefinite Quantity – “Indefinite quantity” provisions permit the Government to order additional work, in addition to the basic services, and upon acceptance permit additional payment to the Contractor.

2.4. Modification – Modification is a bilateral or unilateral change in the terms of a contract.

2.5. Predictive Maintenance – “Predictive maintenance” is a program of maintenance activities in which scheduling of maintenance derives from monitoring the operating condition, or changes in the operating condition, of equipment being maintained.

2.6. Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) – The QASP is the Government’s surveillance method of monitoring and evaluating the Contractor's performance under a Performance Work Statement (PWS).

2.7. Quality Control Program – The Contractor’s complete system for identifying and correcting deficiencies in the quality of services before the level of performance becomes unacceptable. Preparation of the written plan is the responsibility of the Contractor.

2.8. Standard Service – A standard service is defined as grounds maintenance and related services that are included in the monthly price or as defined in the Contract document. Prices are to include all applicable labor, materials, supplies, equipment (except as otherwise provided), supervision, and management.

2.9. Additional Services – “Additional services” are services that the Contractor will provide at an additional cost to the Government, to include all labor, supervision, supplies and materials specifically identified as being outside the provisions of the basic services and included in the offeror’s overall pricing. These services may be provided during or after normal working hours. The Contracting Officer (CO) will issue a separate task order before work may proceed.

3. POINTS OF CONTACT

3.1. Contract Specialist (CS): Durell Salaz, durell.salaz@va.gov

3.2. Contracting Officer (CO): Anna Norcross, anna.norcross@va.gov

3.3. Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR): Jaime Hernandez, jaime.hernandez1@va.gov

3.4. Alternate Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR): Carlton Emmons, Carlton.Emmons@va.gov

4. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

4.1. The contractor shall perform landscaping and grounds maintenance services in accordance with the requirements of this Performance Work Statement.

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

4.3. The contractor shall provide a list of tools and equipment to be used during the contract for each site to the COR after five (5) days of contract award. The contractor shall ensure equipment is of commercial grade and regular maintenance is preformed to keep in safe working/operating condition. The COR reserve the right to inspect any/any/all the contractor’s equipment and have it removed for maintenance/repairs at any time by the contractor at no additional cost to the government. The contractor will provide appropriate staffing levels to meet the specifications for all sites listed, however a minimum of two (2) staff is required per site Monday through Friday during normal business hours. The daily schedule can be changed by the contractor if agreed upon by the COR.

4.4. MAINTENANCE

4.4.1. Mowing. Mow all lawns, at all sites weekly. Lawns shall be kept at a height between 3”-4” summer and winter. Lawns shall be mowed during the months of December, January and February as growing conditions allow.

4.4.2. Edging.

4.4.2.1. Edge all lawns on the same day that lawns are mowed.

4.4.2.2. All edging around the perimeters of the area, around paved surfaces within the areas and around trees, bushes, shrubs, planters, standpipes, barriers, water valve boxes, recreation equipment, sprinkler heads, planter pods and other permanent structures within the areas immediately after every other mowing.

4.5. DEBRIS REMOVAL

4.5.1. Collect and dispose of all grass and lawn clippings after mowing and edging into the VA provided open dumpster.

4.5.1.1. Martinez – disposal dumpster is located behind the Out-Patient Clinic, Bldg. 19.

4.5.1.2. Mare Island – disposal dumpster is located behind the Out-Patient Clinic

4.5.1.3. Mather – disposal dumpster in compactor dumpster located behind building 702, green waste dumpster out in front of building 807, or open dumpster located at building 752.

4.5.1.4. McClellan – disposal dumpster is in the rear of building 98.

4.5.1.5. Stockton – disposal dumpster – TBD

4.6. GROUND REPAIR

4.6.1. Groundcover: All areas shall be maintained to promote healthy and sustained growth. Ground cover must present a neat appearance. Brown, or dry spots on lawns shall be treated promptly to obtain green consistency of a whole lawn. Areas that are under repair shall be treated with All-Green, or similar solution to provide interim appearance improvement.

4.6.2. Aeration: Soil shall be aerated (frequency is dependent on the type of soil and grass but no less than one aeration-per year) by manual or mechanical methods of piercing the ground to provide an adequate air supply to the soil and promote sustained plant life. Aerate all lawns regularly and as needed to maintain good appearance, and healthy lawn.

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

4.7. FERTILIZATION

4.7.1. All lawn, trees, and ground cover shall be fertilized consistent with common local landscaping practices. Fertilizer used shall be of a balanced type that supplies all nutrients required for providing sustainable growth and development. The fertilizer application rate for the trees will be determined by tree type, girth, and height. Prior to application, the Contractor shall schedule time of application with the COR.

4.7.2. Fertilize all lawns during each growing season using good time-release fertilizer such as Nitro Best or equivalent. The actual dates chosen for fertilization will be determined by agreement of the Landscape Contractor and the COR. Fertilization shall not be performed between November 15 and January 31.

4.7.3. Apply fertilizer to all other vegetation in both developed and undeveloped area according to the specific needs of each tree or shrub. Deep root feeding is not required. Trees in undeveloped areas that are not fully established may be fertilized.

4.7.4. The contractor shall utilize the type and quantity of fertilizer that is specifically formulated for the trees/shrubs for the time of the year applied. The amount of fertilizer used shall never be less than that which is recommended by the fertilizer manufacturer.

4.7.5. Contractor shall notify COR prior to fertilizing. COR will be allowed to verify type and quantity of fertilizer used as necessary.

4.8. WEED CONTROL

4.8.1. Maintenance: All areas (excluding unimproved grounds) are to be free of weeds and unwanted growth.

4.8.2. Pre-emergence crabgrass control chemicals shall be applied to the grass prior to the growing season. The quantity of pre-emergence control utilized shall never be less than that which is recommended by the pre-emergence control manufacturer.

4.8.3. Chemical controls for broad-leaf weeds shall be applied as needed. Over-seeding/ reseeding of blue grass or fescue varieties shall be done to maintain grass coverage and to fill voids created by elimination of weeds.

4.8.4. Remove weeds from all lots, curbs, roadways, planter boxes, property lines, fence lines, and around all permanent structures on the entire grounds once a month. Free growing trees small trees (under 3” dia.) will be removed with agreement of COR.

4.8.5. When chemical methods are used to remove weeds or unwanted vegetation, the contractor shall assure the compatibility of the chemicals with existing vegetation and ensure that only the weeds shall be affected by the chemicals. All weeds and unwanted vegetation killed by mechanical means, or chemical treatment shall be picked up and deposited into the government provided dumpster and shall not be left on the ground.

4.8.5.1. Cut all weeds on undeveloped areas. Keep to a maximum height of 4”.

4.8.5.2. Dispose of all weeds and weed cutting into VA provided dumpster.

4.9. PEST AND DISEASE CONTROL

4.9.1. Uncertified individuals working under the supervision of a Certified Applicator shall not be permitted to provide service under the terms of this contract. Chemicals shall be applied according to manufacturers’ recommendation and shall be applied evenly. Chemicals shall be applied with extreme care to avoid hazard to any person or animal in the immediate or adjacent areas, or property damage. All chemicals shall be in the original manufacturer’s containers and properly labeled.

4.9.2. The Contractor shall utilize the Integrated Pest Management Plan for controlling pests and disease to ensure that landscape, trees, and shrubs are free of disease and infestation.

4.9.3. The Contractor shall not apply any pesticide product that has not been approved in writing by the COR. Only qualified, trained, and licensed/certified personnel shall apply chemicals.

4.9.4. Pesticide application shall be according to need and not by schedule. As a general rule, application of pesticides in any area shall not occur unless visual inspections or monitoring devices indicate the presence of pests in that specific area. In no case shall extremely toxic materials be permitted. The Contractor shall not store any pesticide product on Government property.

4.9.5. Routine pest control services that do not adversely affect tenant health or productivity shall be performed during the tenants’ normal working hours. When it is necessary to perform work outside of the tenants normal working hours, the Contractor shall notify the COR at least one day in advance.

4.9.6. All pesticides used by the Contractor must be registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Transport, handing and use of all pesticides shall be in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s labels and all applicable Federal, state, and local law and regulations.

4.9.7. Contractor shall furnish the Contracting Officer’s Representative with copies of labels, and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for every pesticide potentially used for the maintenance of the landscape areas.

4.9.8. Contractor shall not store any pesticide product on the premises listed herein.

4.9.9. Contractor shall not formulate pesticides from concentrate on the premises listed herein without written approval by the Contracting Officer’s Representative.

4.9.10. Pesticide application shall be according to need and not by schedule. As a general rule, application of pesticide shall not occur unless visual inspections or monitoring devices indicate the presences of pests in the specific area. Preventive pesticide treatments of areas where surveillance indicates a potential insect infestation are acceptable on a case-by-case basis. Written approval must be granted by the Contracting Officer’s Representative prior to any preventive pesticide application.

4.9.11. When pesticide use is necessary, the Contractor shall employ the least hazardous material, most precise application technique and minimum quality of pesticide necessary to achieve control.

4.9.12. When pesticides are applied to an area of ten (10) square feet or greater, the Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer’s Representative at a minimum of one week in advance of the application.

4.9.13. Contractor must obtain written approval by the VA to apply a California Restricted Material on the premises listed herein. The use of California Restricted Materials must adhere to the permit program, rules, and regulations of the California Department of Pesticide Regulation. 5.08.2. The VA has banned the use of the herbicide 2, 4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid (2, 4-D) on all Veterans Health Administration facility grounds, which include all premises listed herein.

4.9.14. Rodent and snail control shall be provided by contractor on an as needed basis.

4.9.15. Contractor is not responsible for the cleanup of bodily fluids, consisting of vomit, blood or any material deemed to be a biohazard, from the grounds. VA Environmental Management Service (EMS) will be responsible for the cleanup of biohazardous materials.

4.9.16. Hose down all walkways to leave in clean and sanitary condition Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at all sites before 8:00 AM.

4.9.17. Contractor shall use effective and appropriate means to clean and remove stains, such as soda, coffee, food, and bird droppings, from these areas.

5. HARD SURFACE AREAS

5.1. Cleaning: All areas (sidewalks, brick areas, hard surfaces, parking areas, garages, docks, moats, platforms, driveways, ramps, lanes, etc.) shall be clean and free of dirt, debris, gum, litter, gravel, weeds, oil, and grease. No residual dirt shall remain after the removal of the debris. Spill residue and clean-up materials shall be disposed in accordance with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and State and local regulatory agency requirements.

5.2. Contractor shall use effective and appropriate means to clean and remove trash and food stains, such as soda, coffee, food pet droppings and bird droppings, and miscellaneous debris from these areas.

6. ASH RECEPTACLES AND TRASH CONTAINERS

6.1. Cleaning: All trash shall be collected and removed to a location designated by the COR. Trash containers and ash receptacles shall be emptied and kept clean, odor-free, and free of dirt, dust, ash, cigarette butts, debris, residue, and spilled material. Sand in ash receptacles shall be replenished as necessary. Plastic liners for all trash containers shall not be torn, worn, or contain residue.

6.2. The Contractor shall collect and transport all solid waste, trash, and debris to designated locations on the campus or other areas (holding areas) for removal from the premises. Holding areas for solid waste accumulation shall be identified by the COR.

7. SURFACES (SIGNS, TABLES, ETC.)

7.1. Cleaning: Surfaces shall be clean, with no dirt, no cobwebs, dust, residue, streaks, spots, soil substances, discoloration, or cloth streaks. Spill residue and clean-up materials used shall be disposed of properly.

8. PARKING STRUCTURES, PARKING LOT(S), AND DOCK AREAS

8.1. Cleaning: Areas shall be cleaned and free of dirt, water, streaks, mop marks, and oil spill(s). Spill residue and clean-up materials shall be disposed in accordance with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and State and local regulatory agency requirements.

8.2. All pedestrian areas, including sidewalks, walkways, building entrances, shall be kept clean and free from litter per the Contractor’s schedule established for the work and approved by the Contracting Officer’s Representative.

8.3. Contractor shall use effective and appropriate means to clean and remove stains, such as soda, coffee, food pet droppings and bird droppings, from these areas.

8.4. Sweep and vacuum with mechanical sweeper all paved roads, driveways, gutters, and parking lots, and parking structures twice weekly on before 8:00 AM. This work is to be done at all locations covered by this contract.

9. EXCREMENT REMOVAL (ANIMAL, AVIAN, AND RODENT)

9.1. Cleaning: All steps and stairs, entrances, sidewalks, arcades, benches, landings, balconies, and ledges shall be cleaned of all excrement while following established safety precautions as outlined in the Center of Disease Control protocols. Knowledge of cautionary requirements in cleaning areas contaminated by bat, pigeon, or other avian pest excrement is required. The Contractor shall fully train all employees designated to perform these services in accordance with OSHA standards and OSHA approved State plans.

9.2. Contractor shall remove and properly dispose of pet waste from landscaped areas and paved pedestrian areas.

10. POLICING OUTSIDE AREAS

10.1. All areas including lawn, grounds, planted areas, sidewalks, hard surfaces, parking areas, garages, docks, platforms, driveways, ramps, lanes, etc.) shall be clean of gum, litter, debris, paper, trash, and other discarded material.

10.2. Site Maps shall be provided upon request.

11. WATERING

11.1. Watering: All watering cycles shall be conducted at times that minimize inconvenience to the building occupants and visitors and maximize percolation. Entrances and exits shall not be wet during the arrival and departure of occupants and visitors. Watering shall be accomplished using a drip, soaker hose, or other water-saving irrigation system devices. The Contractor shall operate watering systems that use automatic timers coupled with rain/freeze sensors, in an efficient manner that considers local weather and local mandates. During periods of water restrictions, watering guidelines by the local water district shall apply. The Contractor shall not be responsible for the replacement of landscaping materials that die as a result of a lack of proper access to water during these periods of water restrictions by municipalities.

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

11.3. Adjust, Clean and Set Automatic Controllers

11.3.1. Maintenance: Irrigation systems on automatic controllers shall be adjusted, cleaned, and set for the most energy efficient watering periods. When watering lawns, the Contractor must make sure that the sprinklers and drip heads are clean and adjusted so that the water ejects evenly and covers all lawn areas and shrubs.

11.3.2. Irrigation systems that are damaged by the Contractor due to neglect shall be repaired by the Contractor. The Contractor shall be responsible for all costs incurred to repair and test the system. Repairs shall be performed by the Contractor or the Contractor’s sub-contractor. All repairs shall be performed by qualified individuals using industry practices. Irrigation repairs will be identified by the Contractor or the Contracting Officer’s Representative. Repairs shall be completed within forty-eight (48) hours after notification of the Contractor.

11.3.3. All repairs or replacements not resulting from maintenance operations are not covered under this contract. The Contractor shall submit a proposal for such work for Contracting Officer’s approval. Work shall not commence prior to the Contracting Officer’s acceptance of the proposal via a written and signed task order.

11.3.4. Installation of any replacement parts must be as per original design intent.

11.3.5. The same exact OEM parts (i.e., same drip bubbler with same Gallon per Hour rating) must be used for replacements unless otherwise specified by the Contracting Officer’s Representative.

11.3.6. Irrigation shall be scheduled with appropriate frequency and duration to meet the water requirements of the plants served by the valve. Excessive water use shall not be allowed.

11.3.6.1. Notifications: The Contractor shall be responsible to notify the Government in the event of operational malfunctions, breakages, or failures to the irrigation system.

11.3.7. Inspect entire sprinkler system and report any deficiencies to the COR once a week on Friday. Provide recommendations regarding deficiencies.

11.3.8. Adjust sprinkler heads, and irrigation/water control equipment (including drip systems) weekly on Friday to assure even distribution of water to all sprinkled areas. Program all automatic watering controllers to water during non-business hours daily between 5:00 PM and 7:30 AM. All manually controlled sprinklers shall be operated by the contractor to assure even watering with no ‘brown’ areas.

11.3.9. Open clogged sprinkler heads (including drip systems), remove impediments which inhibit proper distribution and replace all missing, defective, damaged, broken, malfunctioning and inoperative sprinkler heads, backflow preventers, valves, timers, and broken sprinkler pipe up to and including (2”) two inches, with parts provided by the contractor as often as necessary to properly maintain sprinkled areas to normal.

11.3.10. In the event of an outage of any portion of the water sprinkler system, the contractor shall provide a temporary means of watering the affected area until the system is restored to normal.

12. TREE MAINTENANCE

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

12.2. Inspect all trees and shrubs for insect infestation or disease two (2) times a year in the months of March and September. Report any insect of disease problems to the COR. If the Government decides to treat the noted problems, a separate purchase order will be issued to cover the contractor costs involved in treating or removing the insect or disease. Do not treat until separate Purchase Order is issued. Problems noted to the COR will be identified again on the Monthly Activity/Event Report submitted at the end of each month to the COR and the Contracting Officer.

12.3. Tree thinning shall reduce the density of live branches towards developing the natural branching structure. Thinning shall result in an even distribution of branches on individual limbs and throughout the crown to provide free air circulation through the remaining limbs and branches. Not more than twenty-five (25) percent of the crown should be removed within an annual growing season.

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

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

12.6. Prune all trees in both the developed and undeveloped areas once a year in winter months after leaves drop, and before bud emergence in springtime. Prune trees in developed area to 15 ft. height, and all trees/shrubs encroaching upon fences/buildings, or other real property (branches should be trimmed at two (2) feet from buildings). Notify COR of trees that need pruning beyond height of 15 ft. Trees in undeveloped areas that are not encroaching may be pruned to a lower height of 8 ft.

12.7. Prune/trim all decorative hedges, and ivy beds a minimum of three times per year in October, April, and July. Keep all vegetation a minimum of twelve (12) inches from any building structures.

12.8. Pruning shall be accomplished consistent with good horticultural practices and in a manner, which ensures that the size and proportions of the trees, shrubs, hedges, beds, and plants are maintained.

12.9. Remove all fallen branches, fruit, and leaves from developed grounds, and from the undeveloped areas monthly.

13. TREE CARE SERVICES – Tree care services are considered an Additional Service (AS-NEEDED).

13.1. Tree Care Services will be provided on an as-needed basis as requested by the COR. These services are not included in Section 12.

13.2. The following is a general description of the types of services to be provided on an as needed basis. A. Tree and stump removal.

13.3. Emergency tree care, including spot pruning and tree removal 8.03. All tree care services shall be performed under the supervision of a certified arborist.

13.4. Tree and Stump Removal 8.04.1. Trees that pose threats to structures or buildings shall be removed.

13.5. Tree or limbs being removed that are large enough to cause hardscape or infrastructure damage on impact with the ground or infrastructure shall be lowered with roping or rigging techniques.

13.6. Tree stump and perimeter roots shall be completely removed, by cutting and grinding all growth to a minimum of eight (8) inches below grade.

13.7. Stumps shall be ground within one (1) day of the tree removal date.

13.8. Stump-grinding debris shall be removed the same day grinding is performed.

13.9. In turf areas, Contractor shall backfill with topsoil, and lay sod to match the existing ground grade. In non-turf areas, Contractor shall backfill with topsoil and compact to match existing grades.

13.10. Contractor shall be responsible for removing all debris generated from tree and stump removal operations.

13.11. The schedule for tree removal in association with energized utility or power lines shall be based on the size of the trees to be removed.

13.12. Trees identified for removal shall be considered within the following categories: Large, Medium, and Small, as based on their diameter. The diameter of the tree shall be determined by measuring the Diameter Breast Height (DBH). Trees with multiple trunks shall be measured as follows: All trunk diameters shall be measured. The largest trunk diameter shall be recorded. Each remaining trunk diameter shall be halved. All values will then be added together to obtain the final tree diameter.

13.12.1. Large Trees: 36” and greater

Medium Trees: 24” to less than 36” Small Trees: less than 24”

8.09. The schedule for tree removal shall be as follows:

13.12.2. Large Trees: Remove within two (2) workdays from the Work Order date.

Medium Trees: Remove within two (2) workdays from the Work Order date.

14. MULCHING

14.1. Contractor shall maintain and replace existing mulch as necessary. Replacement mulch shall be commercial grade shredded hardwood bark, synthetic composite (such as Rubberific), or equivalent. It shall be free of sticks, stones, clods, or other foreign material. A sample of proposed mulch and chips shall be submitted to and approved by the COR prior to use. All areas to be mulched shall be raked, debris removed, edge reestablished, and any excessive mulch buildup worked into existing soil or removed, at the discretion of the COR, prior to mulch application.

15. LEAF REMOVAL

15.1. The Contractor shall remove leaves, as necessary, to maintain a neat and clean appearance. Throughout the year, the Contractor shall remove minor accumulations due to isolated leaf drop and shall check all storm drain openings on the premises and remove any leaves or debris that have accumulated. Care shall be taken to remove leaves in existing mulched areas to maintain a neat and clean appearance without substantial reduction in mulch depth or damage to herbaceous or woody plant material.

16. PLANT REPLACEMENTS

16.1. The Contractor shall be responsible for all costs associated with the replacement of all planted materials that have been damaged as a direct result of the Contractor’s lack of oversight, neglect, or lack of proper care and maintenance.

17. FENCE LINES

17.1. Maintenance: Grass, native grass, weeds, and other growth at the fence lines at border stations, shall be controlled and not exceed six (6) inches in height. Any chemical treatment used must be approved by the COR prior to use. Application of any chemicals must be accomplished by a Licensed Pest Control Operator.

18. PRESSURE WASHING

18.1. The Contractor shall remove all dirt, debris, residue, gum, grease, and tar within the exterior areas of the building(s) with the approval of the COR. Clean-up shall be done in an environmentally sound manner to minimize the amount of waste washed into the storm sewers or onto the ground.

19. WATER POLLUTION CONTROL REQUIREMENTS

19.1. Water pollution control is intended to provide prevention, control, and abatement of water pollution to storm drain systems, streams, waterways, ground water and other water bodies of water.

19.2. The Contractor shall at all times observe and comply with, and shall cause all the Contractor’s agents, employees, and subcontractors to observe and comply with all existing and future Federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, regulations, orders and decrees of bodies or tribunals having any jurisdiction or authority over the work.

19.3. The Contractor shall exercise every reasonable precaution to protect storm drain systems, streams, lakes, reservoirs, bays, and coastal waters from pollution with sediments, fuels, oils, bitumen, pesticides, and other harmful materials, and shall conduct and schedule their operations so as to avoid or minimize muddying and sifting of said storm drain systems, streams, lakes, reservoirs, bays, and coastal waters.

19.4. The Contractor shall maintain a neat appearance to the work site. The Contractor shall not sweep construction and /or other materials into the storm drain system and shall prevent such materials from entering the storm drains. The Contractor is advised that disposal of dirt and / or other debris into the public storm drain system is prohibited under local municipal codes and the California Department of Fish & Game Code.

19.5. In order to provide effective and continuous control of water pollution, the Contractor shall provide temporary water pollution control measures which may become necessary as a result of their operations. Temporary measures include, but not limited to, dikes, basins, ditches, tarps, and apply straw and seed. The Contractor shall provide proper storage and disposal of all materials used in their operations. If measures being taken by the Contractor are inadequate to control water pollution effectively, the Contracting Officer’s Representative may direct the Contractor to revise their operations and water pollution control measures. No further work shall be performed until the water pollution control measures are adequate. The VA will not be liable to the Contractor for any delays to their work due to the Contractor’s failure to provide adequate water pollution control measures.

19.6. Any fines or penalties levied against the Contractor for violation of the above and related regulations are the sole responsibility of the Contractor.

20. SPECIAL SITE-SPECIFIC WORK REQUIREMENTS

20.1. MATHER

20.1.1. Provide flowers at the main entrance to the hospital (approximately 270 square feet), and the main hospital sign (approximately 100 square feet) as needed to maintain color during all seasons. Total area of plantings is estimated to be 370 square feet. Submit names and types of flowers to be planted to the COR for approval before planting. YEAR-ROUND COLOR IN THESE AREAS IS REQUIRED. Flowerbeds are to be free from weeds and debris. Replacement plants shall be supplied by the Contractor and approved by the COR and shall be arranged in an attractive and professional manner.

20.1.2. Empty all outside trash receptacles and cigarette receptacles, Monday through Friday at all sites. This must be done at the beginning of each day (first item of work). There are approximately forty (40) trash receptacles and ten (10) cigarette receptacles (smoking shelters) located throughout the grounds and parking areas.

20.1.3. Replace all trash receptacle plastic bag liners with new liners after emptying trash. Plastic bag liners are to be provided by contractor as a part of this contract.

20.1.4. Wash all trash and cigarette receptacles as needed. Hose off with water inside and outside of container and spray with deodorizer. Monthly or as needed.

20.1.5. Hose down the Memorial Plaza in front of building 650 weekly, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to remove stains from spilled drinks, etc.

20.1.6. Remove cobwebs from the memorial statue. This needs to be done between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM before the clinics open.

20.1.7. Pickup and dispose of all litter and debris on all lawn and shrub areas around all buildings, and paved surfaces including parking lots, curbs, islands, walkways, and roadways Monday thru Friday. This also needs to be done at the beginning of each workday (first item of work).

20.1.8. The clinic atrium in Bldg. 650 is to be cleaned before 7:30 AM. Additionally, prune shrubs and maintain irrigation system.

20.1.9. Sweep or hose down outdoor patio (located near front entrance of building 650), to leave in clean condition Monday, Wednesday, and Friday before 8:00 AM.

20.1.10. Sweep under VA provided dumpsters weekly while the dumpsters are moved for disposal. Pick up and dispose of trash and litter around these dumpsters, Monday through Friday.

20.1.11. Wash down picnic tables at the campus weekly before 8:00 AM, approximately 20 tables. (Including tables in the building 650 front patio area) In addition the canteen tables and chairs shall be pressure washed once per month on Saturday.

20.1.12. Wash down outdoor benches and waiting areas at the campus Mondays and Fridays before 8:00 AM. Areas must be free of spills, stains, and animal droppings.

20.1.13. Parking Garage (all levels) and all parking areas shall be free of litter and debris.

20.2. MCCLELLAN

20.2.1. Provide flowers at the Clinic (building 98) North, and South Doors two (2) planters at South Door and four (4) planters at North door), Dental Clinic (building 88) east entrance, parking lot (island) planters and building 209 main entrances, as needed to maintain color during all seasons. Total area for all planters is approximately 250 square feet. Submit names/types of flowers to be planted to the McClellan COR for approval before planting. YEAR-ROUND COLOR IN THESE PLANTERS IS REQUIRED. Flowerbeds are to be free from weeds and debris. Replacement plants shall be supplied by the Contractor and approved by the COR and shall be arranged in an attractive and professional manner.

20.2.2. Sweep and clean all walkways. There are three areas that cannot be swept; they must be washed down.

20.2.3. Sweep under VA provided dumpsters at site weekly while the dumpsters are moved for disposal. Pick up and dispose of trash and litter around these dumpsters, Monday through Friday.

20.2.4. Pickup and dispose of all litter and debris on all lawn and shrub areas around all buildings, and paved surfaces including parking lots, curbs, islands, walkways, and roadways throughout the week. This also needs to be done at the beginning of each workday (first item of work).

20.2.5. Wash all trash and cigarette receptacles as needed. Hose off with water inside and outside of container and spray with deodorizer. Monthly or as needed.

20.2.6. Empty all trash and cigarette receptacles, Monday through Friday. This must be done at the beginning of each day (first item of work). There are approximately five (5) trash receptacles and three (3) cigarette receptacles (smoking shelters) located throughout the grounds.

20.2.7. Sweep and clean all walkways. There are three areas that cannot be swept; they must be washed down. These are in front of the clinics the front covered walkway outside of all the buildings. These areas must be washed down before 8:00 AM.

20.2.8. Dispose all trash and litter into VA provided open dumpster.

20.2.9. Wash down outdoor benches and waiting areas at the campus Mondays and Fridays before 8:00 AM. Areas must be free of spills, stains, and animal droppings.

20.2.10. All parking areas shall be free of litter and debris.

20.3. MARTINEZ

20.3.1. Replace flowers (approved by the COR, color & type) in the Martinez OPC atrium (approximately 130 square feet), outside the CREC by the flagpole area (approximately 320 Square feet), and next to the Research Building entry door (approximately 20 square feet), as needed to maintain color during all seasons. Total area of all plantings is estimated to be 470 square feet. Submit names/types of flowers to be replanted to COR for approval before planting. YEAR-ROUND COLOR IN THESE AREAS IS THE MAIN CONCERN AND SHALL BE PROVIDED Flowerbeds are to be free from weeds and debris. Replacement plants shall be supplied by the Contractor and approved by the COR and shall be arranged in an attractive and professional manner.

20.3.2. Combustion engine driven blowers shall not be used near the front entrance or the air intakes of the Clinic, Nursing Home, and E-Wing. The walkways in these areas shall be hosed off between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM.

20.3.3. Martinez’s clinic atrium shall be cleaned before 7:30 AM.

20.3.4. Wash all trash and cigarette receptacles as needed. Hose off with water inside and outside of container and spray with deodorizer. Monthly or as needed.

20.3.5. Empty all trash and cigarette receptacles throughout the week at all sites. This must be done at the beginning of each day (first item of workday). There are approximately forty (40) trash receptacles and ten (10) cigarette receptacles (smoking shelters) located throughout the grounds.

20.3.6. Pickup and dispose of all litter and debris on all lawn and shrub areas around all buildings, and paved surfaces including parking lots, curbs, islands, walkways, and roadways. This also needs to be done at the beginning of each workday (first item of work).

20.3.7. Replace all trash receptacle plastic bag liners with new liners after emptying trash. Plastic bag liners are to be provided by contractor as a part of this contract.

20.3.8. Dispose all trash and litter into VA provided open dumpster.

20.3.9. Sweep under three (3) VA provided dumpsters located in the back-dock areas at Martinez weekly while the dumpsters are moved for disposal. Pick up and dispose of trash and litter around these dumpsters, throughout the week. Contact the COR to determine time that dumpsters are scheduled for removal.

20.3.10. Sweep and clean all walkways. There are three areas that cannot be swept; they must be washed down. These are in front of the Clinic (building 19), the front covered walkway outside the CREC (Building 20) and the front of the E-Wing (Building #21). These areas must be washed down between 6:00 and 7:00 AM.

20.3.11. Wash down the patios with a water hose in the Center for Rehabilitation and Extended Care Building #20. There are four (4) patios, Shasta, Napa, Tahoe, and including the canteen patio on a weekly basis before 8:00 AM. Pressure-wash/ patios and entrance/walkway between Building #20 and #22 once a month on Saturday. Remove all leaves from patios and entrance/walkway between Building #20 and #22 during the Spring/Winter months.

20.3.12. The putting green needs to be hand mowed (twice a week), weeded, and fertilized as needed to provide a flat manicured type surface for putting.

20.3.13. Wash down picnic tables at the Martinez campus weekly before 10:00 AM, approximately twenty (20) tables. (Including tables in the canteen picnic area) In addition the canteen picnic tables shall be pressure washed once per month on Saturday.

20.3.14. Routine cleaning and maintenance of landscape catch basins on an as needed basis. Notify COR if drain is plugged.

20.3.15. Wash down outdoor benches and waiting areas at the campus Mondays and Fridays before 8:00 AM. Areas must be free of spills, stains, and animal droppings.

20.4. MARE ISLAND

20.4.1. Provide flowers at the Clinic in the planter areas in the front & rear of building and in the courtyards. The contractor shall maintain color during all seasons. Total area for all planters is approximately 450 square feet. There is approximately 8000 square feet of ground cover that needs to be maintained as well. Submit names/types of flowers to be planted to the Mare Island COR for approval before planting. YEAR-ROUND COLOR IN THESE PLANTERS IS REQUIRED. Flowerbeds are to be free from weeds and debris. Replacement plants shall be supplied by the Contractor and approved by the COR and shall be arranged in an attractive and professional manner.

20.4.2. Sweep and clean all walkways. There are three areas that cannot be swept; they must be washed down.

20.4.3. Sweep VA provided dumpsters weekly while the dumpsters are moved for disposal. Pick up and dispose of trash and litter around these dumpsters, Monday through Friday.

20.4.4. Pickup and dispose of all litter and debris on all lawn and shrub areas around all buildings, and paved surfaces including parking lots, curbs, islands, walkways, and roadway Monday thru Friday. This also needs to be done at the beginning of each workday (first item of work).

20.4.5. Wash all trash and cigarette receptacles as needed. Hose off with water inside and outside of container and spray with deodorizer. Monthly or as needed.

20.4.6. Empty all trash and cigarette receptacles, Monday through Friday at all sites. This must be done at the beginning of each day (first item of work).

20.4.7. Sweep and clean all walkways. There are three areas that cannot be swept; they must be washed down. These are in front of the clinic, the front walkway outside the main entrance. All areas must be cleaned between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM.

20.4.8. Dispose all trash and litter into VA provided open dumpster.

20.4.9. Wash down outdoor benches and waiting areas at the campus Mondays and Fridays before 8:00 AM. Areas must be free of spills, stains, and animal droppings.

21. VA POLICE OFFICE

21.1. Extreme caution shall be exercised when working in area. Notify VA Police when working in this area. Be sure gates/doors are closed tightly to prevent staff/public entering this area without notifying the VA Police prior to entry.

21.2. No work shall be performed in the Martinez Child Care area during the week. All work shall be done on Saturdays. Note: all weekend work is to be started no earlier than 9:00 AM.

22. SERVICE SUMMARY. The contractor service requirements are summarized into performance objectives that relate directly to mission essential items. The performance threshold briefly describes the minimum acceptable levels of service required for each requirement. These thresholds are critical to mission success.

22.1. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENT STANDARDS

# 1 - Maintain Grounds, General and Special Site Requirements

Grass is maintained within proper height for its area. Grass is healthy, growing vigorously, and presents a neat, professional appearance. Fertilizer and soil amendments are applied on time and in the correct amount. Soil is aerated.

# 2 - Maintain Trees, Shrubs, and Hedges,

# 3 - Police Grounds of Trash and Litter

23. QUALITY CONTROL/QUALITY ASSURANCE

23.1. The contractor is required to have and provide a Quality Control Plan that will ensure services are provided in accordance with the Performance Work Statement (PWS). The contractor’s Quality Control Plan may need to be modified or updated to adequately address Government requirements. The Contractor’s Quality Control Plan should be reviewed by the contractor regularly and as required through the duration of the contract performance period to ensure compliance with the Government requirements. The COR shall be on document distribution for all formalized changes to the Contractor’s Quality Control Plan.

23.2. The contractor quality control program shall assure that contractor inspection documentation and documentation of management actions taken are maintained, complete and reliable. Records and documentation include any Government inspection records, complaints, and audit results. Physical hard copies of all records are required to kept, preferably maintained in binders or in loose-leaf manual format. The records shall be kept and made available to the government throughout the contract performance period and for the period after contract completion until final settlement of any claims under this contract.

24. NOT USED

25. QUALITY ASSURANCE MONITORING

25.1. The Government will monitor the contractor’s performance to assure that the performance thresholds and standards of performance are met in accordance with the statement of work. In accordance with FAR 52.212-4 (a) “Inspection/Acceptance” the Government reserves the right to inspect or test any supplies or services that have been tendered for acceptance. The Government may require repair or replacement of nonconforming supplies or re-performance of nonconforming services at no increase in contract price.

25.2. The contractor service requirements are summarized into performance objectives that relate directly to mission essential items. The performance standards describe the minimum acceptable levels of the service required for each task. These thresholds are critical to mission success.

25.3. The COR will evaluate the services required by each task to ensure compliance.

25.4. The contractor shall perform all work required in accordance with performance objectives. The COR will not consider the task complete until all deficiencies have been corrected.

25.5. The COR will receive complaints from facility personnel and pass them on to the contractor’s quality inspector for correction.

25.6. The inspection period is monthly with twelve (12) one-month periods during the year. Inspection period will be from the first of the month through the last day of the month. The COR should receive no more than five (5) complaints. The COR will record results of the inspection, noting the date and time of the inspection. If inspection indicates unacceptable performance, the COR will notify the supervisor or quality inspector. The contractor shall be given two hours after notification during shift hours to correct the unacceptable performance. Report period is monthly. However, complaints are by task.

26. ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

26.1.…