Attachment B- Grounds Maintenance Performance Work Statement (PWS) .docx

Performance Work Statement

1.1 BACKGROUND

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), National Cemetery Administration (NCA), honors Veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our nation. There are approximately 155 National Veterans Cemeteries in 39 states that receive visitors, hold ceremonies, and conduct committal services on an ongoing basis. Because of the special significance and attention our National Cemetery receives from the public, strict adherence to the following specifications is essential.

1.2 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The Contractor shall provide all supervision, labor, equipment, materials, and supplies necessary to provide Grounds Maintenance, Headstone and Interment Services and additional maintenance or services as listed above at Alton National Cemetery and North Alton Confederate Cemetery. The specific location, sizes and services required for the cemetery are as follows:

Alton National Cemetery

600 Pearl St Alton, IL 62002

Total 1.5 (Developed 1.5)

Full Grounds Maintenance, Headstone & Interment Services

Alton National Cemetery is located at 600 Pearl St, Alton, IL 62002. The cemetery is comprised of 1.5 developed and non-irrigated acres, adjacent to a private cemetery. The cemetery contains the remains of veterans, spouses, and dependent children whose gravesites are identified by approximately 565 upright headstones with a grand rostrum at the front of the cemetery. North Alton Confederate Cemetery is comprised of 3.95 acres with a large obelisk overlooking the property that serves as the monument marker for all the interred confederate soldiers. There is also one standard government headstone on the property. In addition, there is an entrance with pillars and an iron fence that opens to a sidewalk leading to the Obelisk. There is also a combination of chain-link and iron fence surrounding the entire cemetery with an additional fence within the perimeter that subdivides part of the property. National Cemeteries are National Shrines and must be maintained with the utmost dignity and respect. The standards of maintenance and appearance at these cemeteries must reflect this nation's concern for those interred there. For this reason, strict adherence to the specifications is required as well as adherence to National Cemetery Administration National Standards.

1.3 MAINTENANCE AREAS

The physical area of the contract includes the cemetery proper, structures, landscaped grounds, perimeter landscaped areas, and all of its landscape elements. The exact same work shall be completed at both Alton National Cemetery and North Alton Confederate Cemetery except where highlighted on the CLIN line.

1.4 CONTRACT OBJECTIVES

1. To use an innovative and creative technical approach to manage the full cemetery operations at Alton National Cemetery and North Alton Confederate Cemetery in order to maintain the high standards of appearance as a National Shrine, in accordance with the National Cemetery Administration National Shrine Commitment Operational Standards and Measures (December 2023) and standard commercial practices.

2. To have our business partner propose a business solution using performance based contracting techniques with incentives and disincentives designed to reward superior performance.

Specifically, we require a business partner to establish a performance plan focusing on criteria such as healthy grass, trees, shrubs, and plants and a clean, neat and professional appearance. The plan shall include a performance work schedule, list of materials the contractor plans to use, a detailed list of equipment the contractor plans to provide and use, labor and a quality control plan to monitor the contractor’s performance in meeting the cemetery goals. Award Year Term points shall be used as incentives to extend the term of the contract to reward exceptional performance. (The use of surveys to measure customer satisfaction and quality may be used to award incentives or apply deductions.)

3. To determine a contract period of performance in accordance with standard commercial practices. The minimum life of the contract should be one base period with options to extend the term of the contract up to four (4) additional years. The maximum life of the contract, including any options shall not exceed five (5) years.

4. In the event of a Government Shutdown, the contractor shall only perform essential work. The government has the right to determine critical processes at the national cemetery. The contractor shall be notified by telephone or in writing either by the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) or the Contracting Officer (CO) as appropriate, in the event of a shutdown. The communication shall specify what Contract Line-Item Number (CLIN) the national cemetery deems essential during the government shutdown. The contractor shall only perform that contract line-item number the national cemetery specified are crucial to daily operations. If the contractor completes any contract line-item numbers other than what is defined by the National Cemetery, the contractor shall incur the cost.

1.5 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS & SPECIFICATIONS

SERVICES PROVIDED: The Contractor shall provide all supervision, labor, equipment, materials, and supplies necessary to perform the above listed Grounds Maintenance, headstone and Interment Services etc. (reference management plan below) at Alton National Cemetery (ANC) and North Alton Confederate Cemetery (NACC).

THE CONTRACTOR SHALL PROVIDE THE MANPOWER & RESOURCES NECESSARY TO PERFORM AND COMPLETE MULTIPLE JOBS SIMULTANEOUSLY.

1.6 CEMETERY GROUNDS MANAGEMENT PLAN

1.6.1 TURF MAINTENANCE: FERTILIZING, WEEDING

1. GENERAL

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements there under.

2. SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: High maintenance areas have a well-established, healthy stand of turf. Contractors shall be responsible for maintaining the turf area of the cemetery and the immediate area surroundings of the cemetery in a healthy condition by proper application of fertilizers, chemicals (to control weeds, diseases and insect pests) and lime (if soil tests indicate it is needed). Turf in burial areas should be “generally weed-free,” meaning that the population of weeds is very widely scattered and visually insignificant. Likewise, turfgrass should also be generally free of other pests, including diseases, rodents and moles, and insect pests. The turf shall be aerated in September, or as soon thereafter as conditions are appropriate. The turf shall be dethatched as needed in September if thatch layer exceeds one-half (1/2”) inch in depth. Approximately 1.5 (ANC) and 3.95 (NACC) acres of turf shall be treated.

3. EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

A. The Contractor is to supply all necessary applicators, hoses and other equipment.

B. ANC has water available on the property that the contractor may use but NACC does not have available water on the property.

C. The Contractor shall furnish all required chemicals, fertilizers, soil amendments, and any other supplies. The cemetery (COR and/or CO as appropriate) shall have soil testing of the site performed approximately every three (years), or as needed for projects. A copy of the soil test results shall be provided to the contractor and COR and/or CO as appropriate, along with recommendation and guidance for the application of any required soil amendments, as indicated by the soil testing.

D. All vehicles need to stay off turf (excluding mowers) unless boarded in with ¾” plywood or fiberglass mats.

4. PROCEDURE

The Contractor shall be responsible for taking all precautions to prevent damage to the cemetery, in any manner, including headstones, markers, monuments, flower bases, trees, fences and other structures during maintenance operations. The Contractor shall be charged current replacement costs for headstones/markers, other cemetery structures or property damaged as a result of actions by contractor personnel.

A. Fertilizer:

Fertilizer shall be applied in late spring (mid-May to early June) and September or about the time of final mowing in fall unless otherwise coordinated with the COR and/or CO as appropriate. Turf fertilizer shall be a ratio of 4:1:2 or 3:1:2 (NP-K) and the nitrogen formulation used for turf shall contain 50% slow release, unless otherwise coordinated with the COR and/or CO as appropriate. Fertilizer should not be applied to heat or drought stressed turfgrass. Fertilization of trees and shrubs (whether in turf areas or in their own beds) shall be done at the same time and with the same fertilizer (and at the same rate) used for turf fertilization. However, if the turf fertilizer contains broadleaf herbicide, then a fertilizer without broadleaf herbicide shall be used in the shrub and landscape beds. Surface application of the fertilizer to the soil is adequate for application. Any fertilizer granules remaining on foliage of ornamentals shall be thoroughly brushed or washed off immediately after application. Any fertilizer left on roadways or walks is to be swept or blown onto turf or a landscape bed to prevent washing of fertilizer into storm drains.

B. Soil Amendments:

When soil tests indicate a need for soil amendments, they shall be applied at the rates indicated in those tests. Time of application shall be in late fall or early winter unless local practice indicates a more favorable time.

C. Weed Control

All weed growth and disease shall be controlled by means of mowing, trimming and spray or any other method approved by the COR and/or CO as appropriate. All personnel using such sprays shall be properly trained, and the person in charge shall be duly licensed by the State of Illinois to use pesticides. Treatment of weeds shall be accomplished by one (1) pre-emergent herbicide application to prevent annual grass (crabgrass) emergence in Spring (March or April), along with two (2) post emergent herbicide treatments in early May, and late October, or as approved and coordinated with the COR and/or CO as appropriate. The post-emergence herbicides shall be chosen to target the specific weed problems at the Cemetery, which may include sedges. Turf shall be maintained generally weed-free throughout each year. Any repeat or follow up applications necessary to maintain that standard shall be applied at no additional cost to the government. (Always follow herbicide label instructions).

D. Gophers and Moles and any other Pest:

Gophers and moles and any other pest shall be controlled by accepted industry practices and standards appropriate for the pests present or by elimination of their food source through the use of pesticides. All measures to eliminate or control pests shall be performed and supervised by a state licensed applicator/pest control specialist. The Contractor shall ensure that soil shall be tamped into holes and turf replaced or reseeded to insure acceptable appearance at all times.

E. Pesticides and Herbicides

Contractor shall keep record of all pesticides/herbicides applied and furnish copy to COR and/or CO as appropriate within five working days of application. Records shall show type, amount, application area, and weather conditions. Signs shall be posted informing the public that a chemical has been applied (Date and Time of Application). Turf in high maintenance areas shall be at least 95 percent pest and disease free. Application rate should meet the manufacturers specifications.

1.6.2 TURF MAINTENANCE: SODDING/SEEDING

1. GENERAL

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and Contract Documents to Bidders, which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements there under.

2. SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: Turf used shall be compatible with the geographic region and adheres to the Cemetery Master Plan, where applicable. Guidance from COR and/or CO as appropriate is adhered to regarding turf selection and installation.

Work consists of sod bed preparation and sodding/seeding of areas of the cemetery where the turf has been disturbed or has died. In particular, all newly dug or refilled graves shall need re-sodding/seeding. Approximately 3 gravesites shall require re-sodding/seeding annually. The Contractor shall be responsible for the removal and disposition of dead ground and shall refill the site with quality topsoil and perform the sodding/seeding to include the bare areas to ensure a quality turf. Delivery tickets, indicating date, weight, analysis, purity, and vendor’s name, etc. are to be submitted to the COR and/or CO as appropriate.

3. Seed/Sod/Turf:

Grass seed shall be a fresh new crop seed complying with purity and germination requirements stipulated herein. Grass Seed Mix to approximate the following:

A. Only cultivars of grass sod/seed that have been adapted in the State of Illinois and certified by the State Agronomy Testing Laboratory shall be accepted. Any substitution of sod/seed type, weight or application must be specifically approved by the COR and/or CO as appropriate in writing. Sod/seed is to be free of all noxious weeds. Turf-type Tall Fescue is to be the primary grass to be developed.

B. Only strains of grass seed that have been adapted in the State of Illinois and certified by the State Agronomy Testing Laboratory shall be accepted. Any substitution of seed type, weight or application must be specifically approved by the COR and/or CO as appropriate in writing. Seed must be free of any noxious weeds.

C. Fertilizer for seedbed preparation is to be standard turf starter fertilizer with a relatively high P content (1.0 lb. of nitrogen per 1000 square feet (for a 12-25-10 fertilizer that would be 8 lbs. of fertilizer per 1000 square feet) applied at 8-10 lbs of fertilizer per 1000 square feet. Fertilizer shall be spread with approved equipment and at an even rate over the area to be seeded.

D. Seed shall be uniformly distributed by a hand broadcast drill, cyclone spreader, or other approved methods. Seed shall be rolled into the soil immediately after spreading.

E. If topsoil pH is below 6.0 then ground limestone is to be added sufficient to bring the pH up to 6.5, based on soil tests. The COR and/or CO as appropriate, is responsible for testing soil already at the cemetery, the contractor is responsible for testing any soil brought into the cemetery (and providing the test results to the COR and/or CO as appropriate). Lime is to be spread uniformly over the area(s) to be seeded.

F. Sod shall be removed and reinstalled/replaced after burial. Once frost is too deep to allow sod cutting, a list of gravesites needing sod and seeding shall need to be kept for spring repairs and re-establishment.

G. Lime shall be ground, or pellet limestone composed predominately of calcium carbonate with not less than 1% magnesium, in compliance with the State of Illinois Agricultural Standards.

H. An area to be seeded shall have a minimum of two (2) inches of topsoil placed on it and be prepared for seeding by bringing ground surface to adjacent grades, (with allowances for sod thickness, where applicable) free of sticks, stones, or other foreign material over one (1) inch in any dimension. Surface to conform to finish grade, free of water retaining depressions, soil friable, free of clumps and of uniform fine texture.

I. No seeding is to be done during windy weather or when ground is wet or otherwise non-tillable.

J. All seeded areas shall be mulched immediately following seeding. Erosion control blankets designed for grass germination and growth are preferred, but if they contain netting they shall be carefully removed when the grass begins to grow through them. Timing of matting removal shall be after a good grass stand has been established but before the matting becomes so entangled by the new grass as to make removal difficult. If proper care is taken, the matting can be reused. Chopped straw is alternative mulch. If used, straw is to be applied at a uniform rate so as to provide a loose depth of covering thin enough to expose 25% of the soil, yet reduce washing of seed and soil, 1 bale of straw per 1,000 sq. feet of seeded area.

K. Areas of the cemetery where turf is weak, spotty, or thin (such as 5% or more soil visible) shall be slit seeded in September soon after core aeration. The COR and/or CO as appropriate may designate areas to be slit seeded.

4. GUARANTEE

A. The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing and watering all sodded/seeded areas and maintaining them in a healthy and vigorous condition.

B. The Contractor shall, at his own expense, replace any sod which has died or been damaged during the establishment period.

C. Healthy turf shall be re-established within thirty (30) days on all grave re-openers during the growing season and shall be re-established thirty (30) days of beginning of growing season.

D. Visually Prominent Areas is generally weed free.

E. Visually Prominent Areas is generally free of bare areas.

1.6.3 TURF MAINTENANCE: MOWING, TRIMMING & EDGING

1. GENERAL

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and contract documents which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements there under.

2. SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: Turf shall be maintained at a height within 3” and 4 1/2”. Optimally, the height is no more than ½” above that range and not less than ½” below the range. Turf surrounding a headstone or marker shall be trimmed to match surrounding turf after mowing. There shall be no signs of “grass burns” caused by mowers. There shall be no scalping of turf by mowers or trimmers. No burn spots from fueling mowers or trimmer in sections or on any turf in cemetery.

A. The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing, edging and trimming all grass within the cemetery and outside perimeter fences as specified by the COR and/or CO as appropriate. This encompasses approximately 1.5 (ANC) and 3.95 (NACC) acres. Turf shall not be mowed or trimmed once it has gone into dormancy. Summer and fall telltale signs are browning during hot weather eighty-five (85) degrees in the summer, and below thirty-five (35) degrees in the winter.

3. EQUIPMENT

A. Commercial grade rear discharge or mulching riding mowers may be used provided that they are not operated within two (2) inches of headstones, markers, monuments, tree trunks or other vertical surfaces.

B. Commercial grade power trimmers and power edger shall be used to trim grass from around headstones, monuments, markers, fences etc. (see TRIMMING below).

C. All streets, curbs, walkways, tree wells and shrub beds shall be edged monthly during the nine (9) month growing season ensuring the edging is aligned within two (2) weeks prior to Easter, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Veterans Day.

D. Cutting blades on mowing and trimming equipment must be kept sharp so that grass tips are properly cut - not torn or damaged. Cutting heights of all mowing equipment shall be set according to heights specified below, or as instructed by the COR and/or CO as appropriate. The height of grass is what is measured to get correct cutting height. Which shall be measured in each section and to be mowed and trimmed.

4. PROCEDURE

A. Turf shall be cut to maintain heights as set forth below, or as instructed by the COR and/or CO as appropriate:

B. Mowing shall be inspected by the COR and/or CO as appropriate on an unscheduled basis during growing season, which is typically March through November. The growing season may require mowing twice weekly. Mowing should be performed often enough so that no more than 1/3 of the grass height is removed at any single mowing. Turf in burial and public areas should be maintained at a height within one-inch range of that which is professionally recommended. Optimally, the height should be no more than half an inch above that range. For example, the height of Rhizomatous Tall Fescue grass should be between 3” and 4 1/2”. Grass is trimmed/edged on all sidewalks, curb edges, fences and flower beds. Trimming/mowing should only be done when required, if turf does not need trimmed/mowed, all that is being done is stress on plant and root system along with compaction of soil. (Which allows weeds to compete with turf.)

C. EDGING: All streets, curbs, walkways, tree wells and shrub beds shall be edged inside and outside cemetery grounds. COR and/or CO as appropriate shall conduct random inspections of edging on an unscheduled basis.

D. All non-mowed grass around headstones, monuments, markers, fences and other vertical surfaces shall be trimmed/edged to keep the grass at the height standard described in section 4.A and 4.B of the lawn maintenance section of this contract without scalping between stones or around headstones.

E. The Contractor shall remove and replace all floral or commemorative items, etc. to their proper place while performing mowing services. The Contractor shall repair or replace all damaged items caused by the Contractor at no additional cost to the cemetery as deemed by the COR and/or CO as appropriate.

F. Care and maintenance of shrubs. All non-flowering shrubs shall be evaluated monthly and trimmed as needed during the growing season to maintain healthy, uniform growth and appearance. All flowering shrubs shall be maintained as needed during the growing season to promote flowering, and maintain uniform growth, and appearance. All flowering shrubs shall be trimmed/pruned as needed following flowering to maintain healthy, uniform growth, and appearance. Shrub areas shall be kept free of shrub trimmings or any other debris. Shrubs shall be properly fertilized two (2) times per year with proper slow-release type shrub fertilizer; one (1) application in Spring, and one (1) application in Fall.

G. The walkways (inside and out), flagpole bases, interment area, and roads shall be cleaned up of grass clippings and leaves after mowing, weed-eating, edging, and trimming.

H. Turf in Visually Prominent Area is maintained within one inch of the recommended height.

I. Headstones and markers are generally weed free.

J. Turf damage due to grounds maintenance task is identified and corrective action initiated by close of the same business day.

K. Safety hazards (holes, sunken graves, pest, etc.) identified and corrective action initiated to ensure safety within the same workday.

L. Visually Prominent area have no standing water.

M. Turf surrounding headstones is trimmed to the recommended mowing height.

N. Turf is edged vertically even with marker and marker is free of trimming debris.

O. Other features on cemetery grounds are trimmed or edged within appropriate limits.

P. The COR and/or CO as appropriate shall conduct random inspections.

1.6.4 PLANT MATERIAL MAINTENANCE

1. GENERAL

All work performed in this section is subject to the General Requirements and instructions to bidders which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements there under.

2. SCOPE

NCA STANDARD:

A. Trees and shrubs are to be maintained in a healthy, vigorous condition free of pests and disease. Trees shall be kept free of suckers. Low-hanging dead and broken branches (ones that can be SAFELY removed with a pole pruner or from a step ladder) shall be removed. All cuts shall be made cleanly. Cuts for limb or branch removal shall be made just outside the branch-bark collar (without cutting into the collar or leaving stubs) to minimize wound closure time by the tree. All limbs one inch in diameter or over must be precut to prevent splitting. Branches 3.5 inches or larger in diameter should be lowered by ropes to the ground. Any structural weakness, decayed trunk of branches, split crotches, or branches shall be reported. Wound dressings are not to be used except on oak wounds that are made in the spring and summer (to reduce spread of oak wilt disease).

B. The saucers (watering basins) around young trees shall be kept free of grass and weeds. Dark brown mulch shall be added when required and/or ordered by the COR and/or CO as appropriate. No bark chips or rubber mulch.

C. Mulch around trees and in other beds shall be maintained continuously in an attractive 3-4" thick layer. Mulch shall be dark brown and beds constructed so as to be aesthetically pleasing to the eye of the public and maintained free of weeds, sticks, stones, clippings and other foreign material. Mulch shall be pulled back 2-3" from the trunks of trees (to reduce pest damage potential and to prevent constant bark wetness) then sloped up to the 3-4" depth.

D. Fresh, dark mulch shall be added two weeks before Memorial Day and/or as required by the COR and/or CO as appropriate. Contractor shall provide all materials. No bark chips or nuggets or rubber mulch shall be allowed. Mulch rings around trees should extend 2-3 feet from the trunks, with the size of the ring somewhat relative to the size of the tree.

E. Ornamental trees and shrubs shall be maintained so that they enhance and do not detract from the appearance of public areas.

F. Ornamental trees and shrubs shall be pruned in a manner that ensures they do not pose a hazard to staff and visitors.

G. Woodland areas are maintained so that they enhance and do not detract from public areas.

H. Beds containing shrubs, ground cover and annual or perennial flowers shall be kept attractive and free of weeds. Any cultivation shall be generally shallow to avoid any damage to roots. Pre-emergence herbicides may be used if compatible with the plants in the beds and if given concurrence by the COR and/or CO as appropriate. Dead or dying plant material shall be reported to the COR and/or CO as appropriate. Replacement plants, if needed, shall be furnished by the COR and/or CO as appropriate and planted by the Contractor as funds are available.

I. High maintenance areas, in which turf is not a part of the cemetery design, shall be maintained in a manner that is appropriate for the medium in place and or COR and/or CO as appropriate recommendation.

Work consists of, but is not limited to, maintaining shrubs and trees in a healthy and attractive condition by proper watering, pruning, removal of dead branches, cultivation and mulching. Notify COR and/or CO as appropriate of any pest infestation in trees and obtain further guidance from the COR and/or CO as appropriate. The COR and/or CO as appropriate shall conduct random inspections.

3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Personnel shall be properly trained in the operations they are to perform. If pesticide sprays are used, the person in direct charge shall be licensed by the State. They shall have proper licensing for the pesticide being applied.

4. EQUIPMENT

A. All necessary equipment for this maintenance performance shall be furnished by the Contractor unless specifically stated otherwise.

B. All cutting tools shall be kept sharp and properly functioning.

C. Materials for pesticide applications and fertilizing shall be supplied by the Contractor and proper records kept in accordance with state regulations.

5. PROCEDURE

A. Trees shall be kept free of suckers and broken branches.

B. All cuts shall be made according to ANSI A300 Standards.

C. The saucers (watering basins) recess around newly planted trees shall be kept free of grass and weeds. Hardwood mulch shall be added when required and/or ordered by the COR and/or CO as appropriate. No bark chips or nuggets shall be allowed. All mulch shall be dark brown in color.

D. All new trees shall be staked (as indicated in Department of Memorial Affairs Standard Specifications – obtained from the COR and/or CO as appropriate). Any tree showing an adverse effect from high winds shall also be staked. Trees, which have been damaged in any way, shall be reported to the COR and/or CO as appropriate, or his designated representative. All plant material destroyed by the Contractor shall be replaced at Contractor's cost.

E. Hedges shall be trimmed to promote a healthy and attractive appearance and uniform growth over all parts of the plant, with the bottom wider than the top. Hedges and shrubs shall be kept free of dead branches, leaves and all weed growth. Weeds and their root system shall be removed.

F. Beds containing shrubs shall be kept attractive and free of weeds. Any cultivation shall be generally shallow to avoid any damage to roots. Dead or dying plant material shall be reported to the COR and/or CO as appropriate. Replacement plants, if needed, shall be furnished by the COR and/or CO as appropriate and planted by the Contractor as funds are available.

G. All shrubs shall be watered during the growing season to the degree needed to maintain an attractive appearance should natural rainfall fail to provide the moisture needed.

H. Contractors shall supply all mulch throughout the cemetery.

1.6.5 PRUNING STANDARDS FOR SHADE TREES

1. GENERAL

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and Instructions to Bidders which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements there under.

2. SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: Trees and shrubs are to be maintained in a healthy, vigorous condition free of pests and disease. Trees and Shrubs shall be trimmed and maintained at a proper size, form and shape for its particular size and type according to industry standards. Trees shall be maintained in a condition that is free of broken limbs, hanging limbs, and dead limbs. It is preferred to prune deciduous trees during of months of December 1st through March 1st. All conifers should be pruned in the month of March.

Pruning should focus on maintaining tree structure, form, health and appearance by: Removal of dead, dying, diseased branches by the Contractor.

3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

(A) The types of pruning generally used in the tree industry are as follows: Crown Cleaning, Crown Thinning, Crown Raising, Crown Shaping and Crown Restoration as found in ANSI A300 standards.

(B) Contractor is required to maintain trees up to a maximum height of 15 feet. Any tree maintenance required above 15 feet shall be reported to the COR and/or CO as appropriate.

4. PROCEDURE

A. CROWN CLEANING

Crown Cleaning shall consist of the selective removal of one or more of the following items: dead, dying, diseased, weak branches and water sprouts from a tree’s crown.

B. CROWN THINNING

Crown Thinning shall consist of the selective removal of branches to increase light penetration, air movement, and reduce weight.

C. CROWN RAISING

Crown Raising shall consist of the removal of the lower branches of a tree in order to provide clearance.

D. CROWN SHAPING

(1) Crown Shaping reduces the height and/or spread of a tree. Consideration should be given to the ability of a species to sustain this type of pruning.

(2) The contractor shall not be required to reduce the height of a tree. The contractor shall only reduce the spread of a tree, as needed to perform proper crown raising (removal of bottom branches for clearance), if any.

E. CROWN RESTORATION

Crown Restoration should improve the structure, form and appearance of trees that have been severely headed, vandalized or storm damaged.

5. METHODS

A. When pruning/trimming trees, drop crotch as much as possible and avoid cutting back to small suckers. Remove smaller limbs and twigs in such a manner as to leave the foliage pattern evenly distributed.

B. In pruning/trimming the bottom branches of trees for under clearance, care should be given to symmetrical appearance, and cuts should not be made so large they shall prevent normal sap flow. The under clearance of trees shall be maintained at a minimum of fifteen (15) feet, depending on the species and maturity of the trees, and as instructed by the COR and/or CO as appropriate. The bottom canopy shall be trimmed/pruned to maintain consistent height from ground level throughout the canopy.

C. When trimming/pruning any diseased and/or insect infested/damaged branches, care shall be taken to properly clean and sanitize all cutting tools before and during the operation to prevent spread or transfer of any disease and/or insects to other healthy plant tissue or plant material.

D. Newly planted and younger developing (non-mature) trees shall be trimmed/pruned to promote healthy, vigorous, and aesthetically pleasing growth and shape, keeping in mind the species of the tree. Remove any inward growing or crossing branches. Crown-raising on newly planted or younger developing trees shall only be done to promote proper growth, and not to specifically meet above stated ground clearance.

1.6.6 LEAF COLLECTION

1. GENERAL

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and Contract Documents to Bidders which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be held responsible for and governed by all the requirements there under.

2. SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: All turf, roadways, sidewalks, steps and fences shall be free of debris (i.e. leaves, nuts, fallen branches and trash).

Work consists of collecting and removing from the cemetery grounds, all fallen leaves, nuts, and twigs as frequently as necessary to keep a debris free appearance. Work consists of shredding with a mulching mower or collecting and removing from the cemetery grounds.

Random and unscheduled inspections shall be conducted by the COR and/or CO as appropriate.

3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Leaf collection and removal shall be accomplished beginning around September 15, except when delayed by severe weather conditions for a period of 16 weeks or until all leaves are removed. All fallen leaves must be removed/mulched during this period, except when delayed by the onset of severe weather conditions or unusual fall seasons where leaf fall is delayed due to abnormal warm weather. The Contractor shall schedule removal work accordingly.

4. PROCEDURE

A. Leaves, nuts, and twigs shall be hand raked, vacuumed or blown by walk-behind push type machines from interment areas into the roadways/isles, and then collected and properly disposed of from cemetery grounds. Any accumulation of mulched leaves shall be removed from the cemetery.

B. If shredded, the remaining leaf remnants must be smaller than dime-sized and sift down into the turf, allowing about one half inch of grass to still be seen and be exposed to the sunlight.

C. If the layer of leaves is too heavy to allow grass exposure after shredding, then the leaves may be more widely dispersed prior to shredding or may be completely removed.

D. Large tractor drawn or self-propelled leaf collection units shall be restricted to paved areas or to open underdeveloped and/or un-interred areas.

E. The Contractor shall inspect all areas of the cemetery during this period and ensure that there is no accumulation of leaves in any area.

1.6.7 PAVEMENT SWEEPING and CLEANING

A. NCA STANDARDS

Roads, curbs, sidewalks, paths, parking lots, entry features and perimeter walls/fences are clean and well-maintained.

B. SCOPE

1. Clean roads, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, stairs, paths, and parking lots.

2. Parking lots are accessible and well maintained.

C. REQUIREMENTS

1. On a weekly basis sweep road, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, stairs, paths, parking lots, and other paved surfaces. Collect and dispose of debris.

a. During the rainy season use power sweepers and power brooms to remove difficult-to-remove debris, and debris stuck to paving on a weekly basis. During other times of the year, reduce use of power sweepers and power brooms to once a month.

2. Unless noted otherwise, pressure wash pavement including cemetery walkways, sidewalks, stairways, courtyards, plazas, roadways, parking lots, driveways and curb lines to remove dirt and stains, including tire marks two (2) times per year (once per semester as coordinated with the COR and/or CO as appropriate). Following pressure washing use a high-powered sweeper to sweep all cemetery roadways of any remaining dirt or debris.

1.6.8 TRASH & DEBRIS REMOVAL (Waste Management)

A. NCA STANDARDS

1. All turf is free of debris, (i.e., leaves, fallen branches, trash).

2. Green (organic) waste is disposed of and does not detract from the cemetery appearance.

3. Trash is collected, disposed of and does not detract from the cemetery appearance.

B. SCOPE

1. Maintain all the cemetery grounds and turf free of trash and debris. Visually Prominent Areas are free of trash.

2. Work consists of collecting and removing all trash, debris, fallen leaves, seed pods and branches, dead and unsightly flowers from the cemetery grounds, driveways, parking areas on a daily basis. Work also includes emptying cemetery trash receptacles on a daily basis, and regular, daily floral pickup at gravesites. Floral arrangement shall be treated in accordance with National Cemetery Administration Floral Regulations. The COR and/or CO as appropriate shall conduct random inspections.

3. Debris piles, equipment, tools and supplies shall be removed at the conclusion of each task or at the end of each workday.

4. All roads, driveways, walkways and burial sections are free of grounds maintenance debris by the end of the workday.

5. All trash collection points are screened from the public view.

6. Provide a commercial waste collection and removal contract with licensed waste management company for weekly emptying of contractor-provided dumpsters (as required).

7. Removal of debris and disposal away from the cemetery grounds shall be the responsibility of the Contractor.

C. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Cemetery area includes all of land within the property lines, areas outside the walls and fences, including the areas within the public rights-of way to the edge of public roads.

2. Definition: Trash & Debris are defined as any item, material or foreign object not permanently attached to or planted within cemetery grounds and boundaries. Items include, but are not limited to leaves, needles, flowers, seed-pods, twigs, branches of all sizes, paper products, cigarette butts, gum, glass and metal products, plastic and any other synthetic items, loose rock and stones over two inches (2”) in diameter, and soils that are a result of interment operations.

5. Green Waste Removal: The Contractor shall be responsible for the proper collection, removal and disposal of all debris resulting from tree and shrub pruning operations. All tree limbs, branches, wood chips, bush/shrub/hedge clippings and other debris shall be removed from cemetery grounds the same day the work is performed and be disposed of in a legal manner.

D. PROCEDURES

1. On a daily basis inspect all areas of the cemetery and ensure that there is no accumulation of debris in any area.

2. Provide the necessary labor and suitable conveyance each workday for pickup of debris from cemetery grounds.

3. On a daily basis, leaves/needles and twigs shall be hand raked, vacuumed or blown by walk-behind push type machines from interment areas into the roadways, and then collected and properly deposited into dumpsters. Do not move debris into planting beds and rock mulch beds.

4. In addition to daily trash and debris removal, all trash, debris, contents of trash cans, dead or unsightly flowers and fallen tree limbs shall be removed from cemetery areas in conjunction with each mowing cycle.

5. Walkways, driveways, roads, and parking areas shall be swept following mowing activities.

6. Remove unsightly cut flowers weekly. Remove, clean and replace flower cones into designated receptacles. Remove potted plants and artificial flowers placed on gravesites in accordance with the cemetery floral policy. Remove non-conforming gravesite decorations and Christmas trees and deliver to location as = coordinated with the COR and/or CO as appropriate.

7. On a monthly basis, collect and dispose of all grave decorations, clean and re-stock all flower cones. Schedule general floral pickup from gravesites as coordinated with the COR and/or CO as appropriate.

8. Storm Clean-Up (wind, rain, hail, snow, ice): Check and clean up the cemetery on the next working day following a storm event unless the extent of the storm prompts civil defense authorities to declare emergency movement only. Shall this occur, clean-up shall be done as soon as emergency restrictions are lifted.

9. In conjunction with each mowing cycle, all trash, debris, contents of trash cans, grave decorations, dead or unsightly flowers and fallen tree limbs shall be removed from cemetery areas.

10. Removal, segregation, containment, and disposal of waste off of the cemetery grounds shall be the responsibility of the Contractor. This includes soil removal left over from interment operations.

11. Provide dumpster delivery and pickup service contract for waste segregation and removal. Dumpster sizes shall be suitable for the available storage space and frequency of pick-up (as required).

12. Separate all recyclable and non-recyclable waste as follows:

A. Non-recyclable waste shall be deposited in a trash receptacle/dumpster provided by the Contractor.

B. Recyclable waste shall be deposited in a trash receptacle/dumpster provided by the Contractor.

C. Green waste (i.e., dead flowers, grass clippings, plant trimmings, etc.) shall be deposited in a trash receptacle/dumpster provided by the Contractor.

E. Holiday Trash Removal

1. Contractor shall provide the necessary labor and suitable conveyance for pickup of holiday trash removal from cemetery grounds.

2. Contractor shall be responsible for Memorial Day decoration and trash pick-up.

3. Contractor shall be responsible for Christmas Decoration pick-up. Schedule pick-up after Jan 20.

4. Adhere to Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery floral policy for all floral pick-ups.

1.6.9 SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL

1. GENERAL

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and Contract Documents to Bidders which form a part of these specifications. The Contractor shall be held responsible for and governed by all the requirements there under.

2. SCOPE

Work consists of removal of snow and ice from the cemetery driveway, all walkways on the cemetery grounds, all steps to buildings and structures, sidewalks surrounding the cemetery site, and areas outside the cemetery fence as designated by the COR and/or CO as appropriate. In the event of an interment during the snow season, the Contractor shall be responsible for clearing passages from the roadway to the gravesite.

3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

A. Snow removal shall be accomplished after an accumulative depth of two (2) inches and within four (4) hours of the snowfall Monday through Friday and within an eight (8) hour period on weekends and holidays.

B. Snow removal shall be accomplished by using a self-propelled unit, snow blower or shovel.

C. Ice removal shall be accomplished by applying a deicer. This chemical must be of the type that shall not stain or damage turf, shrubbery, trees, walkways and driveways.

D. Contractor shall take precautions to prevent damage to buildings, roadways, sidewalks, curbing, trees, headstones and markers by equipment used to remove snow and ice. Contractor shall be responsible for repairing any damage caused by equipment in the performance of snow and ice removal.

E. Roads, sidewalks, paths and parking lots open to the public or for cemetery operations during adverse conditions are safe and accessible (e.g. clear of ice, snow, or storm debris.)

1.6.10 HEADSTONE CLEANING

A. NCA STANDARDS

1. Upright and flat markers are clean, free of debris and objectionable accumulations.

2. Upright and flat markers are not damaged, marred, or discolored by Contractor operations.

B. SCOPE

1. Work consists of cleaning all headstones as specified by the COR and/or CO as appropriate to remove objectionable material and discoloration, such as accumulations of bird droppings or mud, tire and hose markings, grass stains, residue from trees, fungus, mold and so forth. There are approximately 565 marked gravesites in the Alton National Cemetery.

2. Headstones and Monuments shall be cleaned prior to Memorial Day or as determined by the COR and/or CO as appropriate with a minimal washing of one (1) time per year. The natural surfaces shall be retained. They shall not be painted, whitewashed or calcimined.

3. Any headstones that have any dirt splash-up or grass debris from mowing/trimming from the grounds maintenance contractor operations shall be promptly cleaned when found at no additional cost to the Government. Work to clean headstones of grass clippings and/or soil residue resulting from turf mowing, edging, and trimming operations does not constitute “headstone cleaning” under this section and shall not be billed for as such.

4. Any headstone that has objectionable accumulations of bird droppings shall be cleaned by dry brushing. Dropping that cannot be removed by the dry brush method shall be removed with a wet brush and rinsed with water. The headstones most affected are those directly beneath trees where birds roost.

5. Headstone, marker inscriptions are visible and legible as appropriate for the age and historic significance of the marker.

6. Damaged and defaced headstones markers have been identified and action taken to replace or repair them.

7. Headstones that are no longer useable are disposed of in a manner that is respectful and prevents unacceptable use.

C. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Headstones that become misaligned during contractor cleaning operations shall be realigned per “Headstone Raise, Lower, Re-align & Reset” at no additional cost to the Government.

2. Protect the turf area from any damage with protection boards or rubber mats. Any turf that is damaged shall be restored at no additional cost to the Government per “Turf Maintenance”.

3. Turf damage due to grounds maintenance task is identified and corrective action initiated by close of the same business day.

4. Abrasive blasting and abrasive cleaning solutions shall not be used.

5. The COR and/or CO as appropriate shall conduct random inspections.

D. SPECIFIC HEADSTONE CLEANING REQUIREMENTS

1. Government-approved cleaning agent (D2, Weatherzyme) and clean water shall be used to clean headstones. Cleaning techniques with water shall include high pressure spraying, scrubbing, and rinsing.

2. When pressure washing is utilized, the pressure shall not exceed 500 psi. Excessive soil shall be removed with plain water and a stiff brush (no wire brushes), followed by rinsing with clear water.

3. Use a cleaning product specifically designed to clean headstones each year. Acceptable Products: ‘D/2 Biological Solution by D/2 Biological Solutions, Inc.; or COR and/or CO as appropriate approved equal. Follow manufacturer’s printed instructions for product mixing and application. Protect turf from injury. Avoid contact between cleaning agent and turf exposed to direct sunlight. Initially clean two headstones using the approved cleaning agent as a test area to determine efficacy of cleaning and to observe for damage done to turf. COR and/or CO as appropriate shall inspect and track results. Discontinue use of cleaning agents that are not producing satisfactory results and/or are damaging turf. Continue with cleaning of headstones as coordinated with the COR and/or CO as appropriate.

4. Every attempt should be made by the contractor to protect turf around headstone from contacting cleaning agent in the form of plywood or similar.

1.6.11 RAISING/LOWERING US FLAGS & PLACEMENT OF GRAVESITE FLAGS

1. A small flag shall be placed on each gravesite (565) at Alton National Cemetery not more than three (3) days prior to Memorial Day (Boy Scouts and other volunteer organizations may assist the Contractor) and shall be removed on the first workday following Memorial Day, weather permitting. Flags shall be counted, bundled into bundles of 20 and placed back in storage. The Government shall furnish flags and storage space for the flags.

2. On Memorial Day, the Contractor shall furnish the following services:

The United States Flag shall be flown at half-staff from 8:00 AM until 12 noon, when it shall be raised to full staff.

3. The United States Flag shall be required to be raised and lowered (flown at half-staff) at various times throughout the year as announced by the President of the United States. When coordinated with the COR and/or CO as appropriate, the US flag at ANC and NACC shall be raised and lowered up to six (6) times per year, per cemetery.

1.6.12 PRESSURE WASH ALTON NATIONAL CEMETERY ROSTRUM AND SIDEWALKS

A. NCA STANDARDS

1. Entry features, rostrum and sidewalks are clean and well-maintained.

2. Structures have a clean and well-maintained appearance.

B. SCOPE

Annually, no earlier than two (2) weeks prior to Memorial Day, pressure wash the rostrum (pilasters, railings, steps, all sidewalks, all stairs, pillars, walls, gate, memorial plaques/signs and fence), all sidewalks and any other fixture that is part of the rostrum. Remove efflorescence, stains, mold and debris from faces. Apply non-toxic efflorescence remover to concrete following manufacturer’s printed instructions when pressure washing alone does not remove deposits.