Attachment A - Statement of Work.pdf

Chattanooga National Cemetery Grounds Maintenance Services

GROUNDS MAINTENANCE - STATEMENT OF WORK

B.1 DESCRIPTION / SPECIFICATIONS / WORK STATEMENT

GENERAL INFORMATION

This Statement of Work describes the basic objectives of Chattanooga National Cemetery.

B.2 INTRODUCTION

The Department of Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration (NCA), honors Veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our nation. Chattanooga National Cemetery is one (1) of 5 cemeteries in the State of Tennessee that receive visitors, hold ceremonies, and conduct committal services on an ongoing basis.

B.3 BACKGROUND

The Department of Veterans Affairs, 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 Cemeteries in 39 states that receive visitors, hold ceremonies, and conduct committal services on an ongoing basis. As the final resting place for our nation’s heroes, the standards for management, maintenance and appearance of these cemeteries have been established by the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) to reflect this nation’s concern and respect for those interred there, therefor strict adherence to the following specifications is essential.

Every action by contractor personnel at a national cemetery must be performed with the special care, reverence, dignity, and respect that acknowledges the cemetery as the final resting place that commemorates the service and sacrifice that service members, Veterans and their families made for our Nation. Critically important is the awareness required when scheduling and performing work to not interrupt cemetery operations.

1. The overall responsibility of the Contractor is to plan and perform the activities associated with statements of work as described herein, which are required to maintain an acceptable appearance of the cemetery grounds in accordance with National Cemetery Administration Operational Standards and Measures.

2. National cemeteries are a resting place for our nation’s heroes and as such, the standards for management, maintenance and appearance of these cemeteries have. been established by the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) to reflect this.

3. Nation’s concern and respect for those interred there. The NCA mission: The NCA honors veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our nation.

Chattanooga National Cemetery is a United States National Cemetery located near the center of the city of Chattanooga in Hamilton County, Tennessee. Administered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, it encompasses 120.9 acres. The physical address is 1200 Bailey Ave, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37404. National Cemeteries are National Shrines. 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 National Cemetery Administration standards.

a. Site features include a main entrance with floral beds, administration building, maintenance building with truck entrance, maintenance compound and contractors’ compound, committal shelters, Armed Forces Pavilion, columbarium with floral beds, Memorial Circle, extensive landscaping with trees, shrubs, and ground cover. Turf is 419 Bermuda.

b. National Cemeteries are National Shrines, as codified in 38 U.S. Code § 2403 (c), “All national and other veterans’ cemeteries under the control of the National Cemetery Administration shall be considered National Shrines as a tribute to our gallant dead. Therefore, 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 described in the attachments, which are based on the National Cemetery Administration, National Shrine Commitment, Operational Standards and Measures, is mandatory.

c. A National Shrine is a place of honor and memory that declares to the visitor or family member who views it that, within its majestic setting, every Veteran may find a sense of serenity, historic sacrifice, and nobility of purpose. Each visitor should depart feeling that the grounds, the gravesites, and the environing of the national cemetery are a beautiful and awe-inspiring tribute to those who gave much to preserve our Nation’s freedom and way of life.

d. The NCA National Shrine Commitment, Operational Standards and Measures should be considered as goals and requirements for the performance of key operational processes and should be applied at both open and closed national cemeteries where work is done by either a federal or contract workforce.

B.3 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The Contractor shall furnish all supervision, labor, equipment, materials and supplies necessary to provide Grounds Maintenance Services to the Chattanooga National Cemetery. Specific location, size and services required for the cemetery are as follows:

Cemetery Address Acreage Required Services Chattanooga National Cemetery

1200 Bailey Ave Chattanooga, TN 37404

Currently:

110 Turf Acres

Grounds Maintenance Services

B.4 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS & SPECIFICATIONS

B.4.a DESCRIPTION OF COMPLETE GROUNDS MAINTENANCE SERVICES The National Cemetery Administration (NCA), Chattanooga National Cemetery has an immediate need for Grounds maintenance services. Contractor shall provide all labor, equipment, supervision, and supplies to complete Grounds Maintenance necessary and ensure the services are performed at Chattanooga National Cemetery in a manner that will promote and maintain healthy grass, trees, shrubs, and plants while presenting a clean, neat, and professional appearance throughout.

The contractor shall provide all supervision, personnel, equipment, tools, and other items and/or services necessary to ensure that grounds maintenance is performed at Chattanooga National Cemetery in a manner that will maintain healthy grass, trees, shrubs, and plants and present a clean, neat, and professional appearance throughout.

Services include, but are not limited to, maintenance of grounds, regular mowing, weed eating, edge trimming of roadways, removal of leaves and debris, as well as, cleaning and pressure washing of headstones, storm debris clean-up, turf maintenance, chemical turf applications/treatments, core aerification, the maintenance and upkeep of mulching beds, columbarium and committal shelter cleaning, holiday support services, sweeping or blowing off cemetery roadways and sidewalks, maintenance of gravesites by cleaning and trimming around headstones.

Turf maintenance, plant and tree maintenance, sunken grave repair, trash removal, removal of floral arrangements as required from graves, maintenance of gravesites and headstones, and the alignment and washing of headstones, headstone maintenance.

All work shall be performed during normal workdays from 730am – 4:00pm local time (Monday thru Friday -excluding Federal Holidays). Work performed outside of normal work hours shall be at the discretion and approval of the Cemetery Leadership in conjunction with the VA Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).

The Period of Performance for this project shall consist of a Base Year (12 Months) and (4) -1-Year Option periods (if exercised):

• Base Year: August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026

• Option Year 1: August 1, 2026, to July 31, 2027

• Option Year 2: August 1, 2027, to July 31, 2028

• Option Year 3: August 1, 2028, to July 31, 2029

• Option Year 4: August 1, 2029, to July 31, 2030

Contractor shall perform all work utilizing best management and safety practices.

Contractor shall understand and meet all current applicable NCA Operational Standards and Measures (Attachment or Appendix). Minor changes to standards and measures shall be at no cost to the government (i.e., timeline to perform tasks).

Contractor shall coordinate work in advance with COR to minimize the impact to cemetery operations. COR shall be notified in writing of all completed work by COB or no later than 10:00am the next business day.

Table of Contents

B.4.1 GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

B.4.1.1 Mowing Turf Area B.4.1.2 Edging Flat Markers B.4.1.3 Edging Of Walkways, Curbs and Other Horizontal Surfaces B.4.1.4 Trimming Of Headstones, Monuments, Markers, And Other Vertical Surfaces B.4.1.5 Trash, Leaf, Pine Needle, Debris Collection, And Removal B.4.1.6 Gravesite Trash, Debris, And Decoration/Floral Removal

B.4.2 GRAVESITE MAINTENANCE

B.4.2.1 Repair Sunken Graves B.4.2.2 Bermuda Sod Installation B.4.2.3 Zeon Zoysia Sod Installation

B.4.3 TOPSOIL, PLANT MATERIAL AND TREE MAINTENANCE

B.4.3.1 Provide Topsoil and Spoils Removal

B.4.3.2 Mulch Removal, Treatment, Install and Replenish to Include All Trees, Shrubs, and Planting Beds

B.4.3.3 Mulch Removal, Treatment, Install and Replenish to Include all Unique Rock Cropping Areas.

B.4.3.4 Tree Maintenance

B.4.4 TURF MAINTENANCE

B.4.4.1 Fertilization B.4.4.2 Weed Control: Herbicide Treatment and Application B.4.4.2a Insect and Pest control of Fire Ants B.4.4.2b Other Insect/Pest Control B.4.4.3 Core Aerification B.4.4.4 Gypsum or Dolomitic Lime Application B.4.4.6 Extreme Weather Storm Damage and Debris Clean-up

B.4.5 HEADSTONE TRANSPORT, SETTING, RAISE AND REALIGNMENT

B.4.5.1 Headstone Receiving all First, Subsequent and Replacement Headstones B.4.5.2 Raise, Lower, Realign, Reset, Backfill & Clean Existing Upright Headstones B.4.5.3 Raise, Lower, Realign, Reset, Backfill & Clean Existing Flat Markers B.4.5.4 Disposal Of Headstones & Markers B.4.5.5 Headstone Cleaning

B.4.6 FACILITIES MAINTENANCE, CLEANING AND PRESSURE WASHING

B.4.6.1 Power Washing Structures to Include Two Shelters, Armed Forces Pavilion, Columbaria, Associated Concrete Walkways, and Cleaning Gutters.

B.4.6.2 Power Washing Structures, Administrative Building, Public Restrooms Building, Cleaning all Gutters, And all Associated Concrete Surfaces and Walkways.

B.4.6.3 Power Washing All Cemetery Roadway Curbs and Paver Stones.

B.4.6.4 Power Washing All Memorial Circle Monuments

B.4.7 GOVERNMENT CONTRACT MANAGEMENT

B.4.7.1 Contracting Officer B.4.7.2 Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) B.4.7.3 Contractor Staffing Requirements B.4.7.4 Site Supervisor Requirements B.4.7.5 Employee Requirements

B.4.8 CONTRACTOR/EMPLOYEE CODE OF CONDUCT

B.4.9 CONTRACTOR FURNISHED ITEMS

B.4.10 QUALITY ASSURANCE PLAN

ATTACHMENTS

B.4.1 GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

NCA Cemetery Operations Operational Standards and Measures, v11.0 Sep. 2024

Category 4, Gravesite Assessment Review Sub-Category 1: GAR

• Standard 4.1.1: Gravesites and the appropriate Headstone, Marker, or Niche Cover are maintained within the guidelines and limits required to allow for a visually pleasing experience.

o Measure 4.1.1a: The percent of headstones, markers, and niche covers that do not show evidence of debris or Objectionable Accumulations.

o Measure 4.1.1b: The percent of gravesites that have grades which are level and blend with adjacent grade levels.

o Measure 4.1.1d: Turf around headstones is trimmed to the recommended height according to the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

o Measure 4.1.1e: The percent of gravesites where turf around flat markers is edged (not trimmed) according to the Grounds Management Plan and are free of trimming debris.

Category 5, Grounds Maintenance Sub-Category 2: Turf / Mineral Base

• Standard 5.2.1: Visually prominent areas have sand, mineral, or well-established, healthy stand of turf.

o Measure 5.2.1: Sand, mineral, or turf in visually prominent areas are generally weed free.

• Standard 5.2.2: All sand, mineral, or turf is free of debris, i.e., leaves, fallen branches, and trash.

o Measure 5.2.2a: Sand, mineral, or turf in visually prominent areas is free of trash.

o Measure 5.2.2b: Sand, mineral, or turf areas are cleared of leaves and other natural debris, as needed, or at least weekly.

• Standard 5.2.4: Visually Prominent Areas have a well-established, healthy stand of turf.

o Measure 5.2.4a: Visually Prominent Areas with established turf are Generally Free of Bare Areas.

o Measure 5.2.4b: Visually Prominent Areas with established turf are maintained within one inch above the range of that which is professionally recommended for that type of turf and geographic region according to the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

• Standard 5.2.5: The turf used is compatible with the geographic region.

o Measure 5.2.5: The cemetery is using turf that is compatible with the geographic region.

• Standard 5.2.6: Visually Prominent Areas are properly trimmed and edged.

o Measure 5.2.6: Other Features (any additional turf areas requiring edging or trimming such as sidewalks, curbs, monuments) are trimmed or edged according to the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

• Standard 5.2.7: Avoid damage and ensure continuation of a well-established, healthy stand of turf during grounds maintenance operations.

o Measure 5.2.7: Turf damage due to grounds maintenance tasks is identified and corrective action initiated by close of business the same day.

• Standard 5.2.8: The grade of every gravesite blends in with adjacent grade levels.

o Measure 5.2.8: Sunken graves have been identified and a plan of action developed to re-establish the ground level and cover within 30 calendar days of the date identified.

Category 3, Facility Maintenance Sub-Category 3 and 4: Environmental Management / Waste Management

• Standard 3.3.2: Spoils areas do not detract from cemetery appearance.

o Measure 3.3.2: The cemetery's spoils are located in areas that minimize public visibility.

• Standard 3.4.1: Trash is collected, disposed of, and does not detract from cemetery appearance.

o Measure 3.4.1a: The cemetery's central trash collection points are located in areas that minimize public visibility.

o Measure 3.4.1b: Public-use trash receptacles are clearly marked, clean, neat, and in good repair.

Sub-Category 5: General Maintenance

• Standard 5.5.1: All areas where cemetery operations have been conducted are neat, clean, and free of debris and equipment at the end of the workday.

o Measure 5.5.1a: Debris, equipment, tools, and supplies are removed at the end of the workday.

o Measure 5.5.1b: Roads, walkways, shelters, and burial sections are free of grounds maintenance debris by the end of the workday.

• Standard 5.5.3: Floral vases and its receptacles are well marked and in good condition.

o Measure 5.5.3a: Floral vases are clean, free of water and debris, and in good repair.

o Measure 5.5.3b: Receptacles for floral vases are well marked, clean, neat, and in good repair.

Category 8, Safety Sub-Category 1 and 2: Operations / Personnel

• Standard 8.1.2: In accordance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA)

Walking Working Surfaces: All areas where cemetery operations have been conducted are neat, clean, and free of debris and equipment at the end of the workday.

o Measure 8.1.2a: 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 and snow or storm debris).

o Measure 8.1.2b: Safety hazards (holes, hazardous trees and branches, sprinkler heads, etc.)

identified and corrective action initiated within the same workday.

• Standard 8.2.1: Necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and safety measures will be adhered to at all times. (Within NCA, PPE is addressed in specific OSHA standards for General Industry and Construction. OSHA requires that many categories of PPE meet or be equivalent to standards developed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)).

o Measure 8.2.1a: Personnel wear appropriate uniform in accordance with NCA’s Directive 3012 (NCA Uniforms and Personal Protective Equipment) and PPE for assigned tasks per OSHA Standards and NCA PPE Matrix.

B.4.1.1 MOWING TURF AREA

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 thereunder.

The contractor shall perform the mowing of all turfgrasses within the cemetery in its entirety; to include the immediate area(s) outside perimeter, entry gates, walls and roadside of cemetery.

All damage due to contractors’ equipment or operations shall be repaired and/or replaced by the contractor at no cost to the government. Contractor is responsible to report any damages immediately to the COR.

SCOPE

Mowing of all turfgrass areas shall commence annually at the beginning of the growing season and continue through the end of the growing season as determined by the COR. Weekly cycles of mowing, edging, and trimming shall be accomplished as needed outside of the growing season determined by the COR.

During unusual periods of turf dormancy, or period of excessive turf growth, the Government reserves the right to postpone the beginning of a new cycle or increase the quantity of mow/trim /edge cycles. In either instance, the COR shall provide the Contractor with one (1) week written notice of the change.

Bermuda Grass height of cut (H.O.C) shall be maintained at height of cut of 2” inches. Cutting height shall be established as required in the Turf Maintenance Plan, with written approval from the District Agronomist.

Turf shall be cut to maintain heights as set forth below (this may change if ground conditions require height change):

Cutting Height, Inches Turf grass Species 2” 419/TifTuf Bermuda 2” Zeon Zoysia

Note: Bermuda Grass height shall be maintained at 2 inches HOC or as directed by the COR (1” to 2.5”). Cutting height shall be established as per required in the Turf Maintenance Plan, with approval from the District Agronomist.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

All Mowing shall be done a minimum of once a week during the growing season, (Typically Mid-February through November) or as weather determines through growing season. The growing season may require mowing twice weekly due to weather conditions to keep the turf from growing more than One half (1/2) inch above the maximum height of 2” (Two) inches for Bermuda. Mowing shall be performed often enough so that no more than 1/3 of leafage is removed at any single mowing. Mower blades shall be maintained as sharp as possible to provide the best cut to ensure turf health. During dormant periods, mowing shall be done as necessary to maintain National Cemetery Standards. Advanced Written Notice and COR Approval is required prior to mowing, edging, or trimming during dormancy.

During unusual periods of turf dormancy, or period of excessive turf growth, the Government reserves the right to postpone the beginning of a new cycle or increase the quantity of mow/trim /edge cycles. In either instance, the COR shall provide the Contractor with one (1) week written notice of the change.

Regular mowing shall be performed before trimming. If ground is wet, to the point of causing rutting, mowers shall not be used until ground conditions permit. COR shall be notified immediately.

Speed of mowers: the speed of mowers shall be appropriate to avoid damage to turf during overpowered turns, incomplete cuts (rooster tails) and headstone damage.

Use of cutting equipment that is out of adjustment or damaged, thereby causing streaks or irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, or gouging of the soil is not permitted.

Leaves shall be collected and removed. Minor mulching of leaves (Not Magnolia Pods) is acceptable based on COR approval.

Weekly mow/trim/edge cycle shall be completed by burial sections, daily. No section shall be left partially completed at the end of day. Mowing/trimming/edging shall all be accomplished the day attempted.

Heavy thatching of grass clippings/leaves is not permitted, and all debris must be removed by the end of the day.

Scalping is not acceptable. Where scalping is evident, and does not recover, the Contractor will be responsible for repair of the damage at no cost to the Government. When scalping is a result of ruts, contractor shall ensure top dressing is completed in the ruts to not scalp the center of the gravesite.

After mowing, no excessive thatch will be permitted to remain on the turf. Visible rows or clumps of turf clippings shall not be allowed to remain on turf areas that have been cut. All clippings must be removed from the site. No clippings or trimmings shall be left in any of the flower beds, mulch, or paved areas.

Mowing equipment shall be kept no closer than 4” (four inches) inches from upright headstones and other vertical structures and/or fixtures.

Top dressing areas with ruts from turf mowing to be completed once a year or on an as needed bases, identified and requested by the COR. Proper top-dressing techniques shall be utilized (example – sand) and shall be approved by the COR prior to completion.

Contractor shall be responsible for mowing, edging, and trimming all grass within the cemetery as specified by

COR.

EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

Contractor shall utilize commercial grade mowers with mulching decks and mulching blades. Cutting blades on mowing 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 in the Grounds Maintenance Plan. The height of grass is what is measured to get correct cutting height. Contractor shall indicate cutting deck height on weekly report.

Riding mowers may be used if they are not operated within four (4) inches of headstones, markers, monuments, tree trunks or other vertical surfaces.

Commercial grade power trimmers will be used to trim grass from around headstones, monuments, markers, etc.

Cutting blades on mowing and trimming equipment must be kept sharp so that grass tips are properly cut and not torn or damaged. Cutting heights of all mowing equipment shall be set according to heights specified below. The height of grass is measured to get the correct cutting height.

All mowers must have mulching decks with mulching blades.

All equipment used in cemetery on any/all inclines that are > 3% (greater 3 percent) shall be rated by equipment manufacturer specifications for such and must meet proper OSHA specifications to be allowed for usage at any time on inclined surfaces of cemetery grounds and surroundings.

Mowers and other ground equipment must be kept off irrigation boxes. Stress on boxes causes burst pipes as far as 10" from the box due to flex and pressure placed on pipes. Any damage will be the responsibility of Ground Contractor for repair(s).

Any contractor equipment brought in from third-party vendors, or other job sites, to include other national cemeteries, must be cleaned with a diluted environmentally approved disinfectant cleaning solution to prevent any cross contamination of unwanted grasses/weeds, diseases, fungi, and/or insects. Contractor shall attest weekly, in writing (email), that all equipment being used on cemetery grounds has been cleaned.

Mowers used for non-turf services shall not be used on turf grass unless cleaned prior to entering the turf area.

Contractor will attest, in writing, that all equipment being used on turfed areas has been cleaned prior to use.

Any cross contamination or associated turf damage resulting from Contractor negligence shall be repaired, treated, or replaced at the Contractor’s expense.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Scalping, mud striping, race tracking, and/or rutting of Cemetery grounds are strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. If such turf damage is identified, the Contractor shall repair and/or replace the damaged turf at the Contractor’s expense no more than 72 hours after identification.

No thatch layer shall exist at any time on cemetery grounds. By following the prescribed mowing schedule, the presence of thatch should be eliminated. If thatch is present following a mowing, it must be mulched, raked, or otherwise collected, and removed from cemetery grounds by close of business on the day it was created.

Rotation of directional mowing shall be performed each mowing cycle in best practice to prevent ground rutting from mowing equipment and promote turf health.

There shall never be visible rows or clumps of grass clippings allowed to remain on grounds. All clippings must be removed from the site. No excess clippings or trimmings shall be left in any of the flower beds, mulch areas, paved areas, and/or concrete surfaces.

All clippings and thatch shall be removed by the end of the workday which they were created.

The walkways (inside and out), interment area, and roads shall be cleaned of grass clippings, dirt, pine needles, and leaves after all ground maintenance operations (mowing, edging, and trimming, etc.). These areas shall be swept or blown off immediately after completion of grounds maintenance operations.

If additional time, weekend or after hour work is needed due to scheduling conflicts, negative impacts to cemetery operations, weather conditions etc., the contractor shall submit a written/email request to the COR for approval.

Overtime / weekend work will be at no cost of the Government. A written request/email must be submitted to the COR for consideration, a minimum of 24 hour(s) in advance of requested overtime/weekend work. Approval from COR is required prior to initiating any after-hours/weekend work or repairs. When after-hours/weekend work is authorized, a minimum of two (2) contractor personnel shall be on-site throughout the duration of work/repairs.

Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds or equipment during grounds maintenance operations must be reported to the COR immediately.

GUARANTEE

All turf areas completed on a weekly cycle shall be evenly presented at the prescribed HOC of 2” (Unless written guidance from the COR specifies 1” to 2”).

Mowing and trimming shall match HOC requirements prescribed in SOW. Any inconsistencies due to deficient equipment (ex. Bent mowing decks or dull blades) or operator error (operating mowing equipment too fast or trimming below prescribed HOC) shall be repaired immediately or other corrective measures to ensure quality results.

Mowing/Edging/Trimming/debris cleanup shall be completed per section and no burial section left incomplete overnight.

The Government reserves the right to exercise any of the mowing, edging, and trimming CLINs based on needs of the cemetery turf. Scalping around headstones may require skipping at least two trimming cycles to enable turf to establish from scalping damage.

B.4.1.2 EDGING FLAT MARKERS

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 thereunder.

SCOPE OF WORK

The cemetery consists of three flat marker sections and flat markers throughout cemetery placed due to obstructions (trees).

Flat stones shall be edged with a plastic or polycarbonate blade only. Flat stones shall be edged with a commercial stick edger after all vertical grass mowing and trimming is complete.

Corners must be 90 degrees without any edging line extensions beyond the corners.

Edging shall provide a clear zone 1/2 inch wide by 1 inch deep.

All debris and grass clippings shall be removed from flat markers upon completion. This includes any debris left in the inscription lettering.

GENERAL REQUIRMENTS

Contractor shall utilize an industrial edger and plastic blades for all edging of flat grave markers.

Edging curbs and sidewalks for entirety of cemetery shall be completed weekly. Trimming around trees, headstones, walls, and other objects shall match the height of cut at 2” (COR may authorize height adjustments from 1.0 to 2.5” and trimming shall match height of prescribed cut) and not entail scalping.

Flat stones shall be edged with a plastic blade only. Flat stones shall be edged with a commercial stick edger after all vertical grass mowing and trimming is complete.

Corners must be 90 degrees without any edging line extensions beyond the corners.

Edging shall provide a clear zone 1/2 inch wide by 1 inch deep.

All debris and grass clippings shall be removed from flat markers upon completion. This includes any debris left in the inscription lettering.

No burial section shall be partially completed by the end of the day to include mowing, trimming, edging flat markers, and edging of surrounding horizontal surfaces (sidewalks/roadways).

EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

Flat stones shall be edged with a commercial grade stick edger equipped with a plastic blade only.

Flat stones shall be edged with a commercial grade stick edger after all vertical grass mowing and trimming is complete.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

All debris and grass clippings shall be removed from flat markers upon completion. This includes any debris left in the inscription lettering.

GUARANTEE

All flat markers are consistently edged with a plastic blade as specified with 90-degree angles and no line extensions. All damage will be immediately corrected.

Any damage to gravesite or markers shall be immediately reported to COR.

All flat markers upon completion of edging are cleaned and presentable to visitors.

B.4.1.3 EDGING OF WALKWAYS, CURBS AND OTHER HORIZONTAL SURFACES

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 thereunder.

SCOPE

All edging of walkways, curbs, and other horizontal surfaces will be done a minimum of once per week during the growing season (Typically Mid-February through November) or as directed by the COR.

All streets, curbs, walkways, drainage grating, manhole covers, and crypt field drain clean-out covers shall be vertically edged with a bladed edger inside and outside cemetery grounds.

All streets, curbs, walkways, entry gates including walls, drainage grating, and crypt field drain clean-out covers will be blown clean after mowing, trimming, and edging before close of business on the day edging occurs.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

All streets, curbs, walkways, horizontal surfaces, manhole covers, tree circles (3’ radius circles), and planting beds shall be vertically edged with a bladed edger inside and outside cemetery grounds. The desired result will be a ½” wide and 1” deep clear gap between the turf/grass and the horizontal surface.

Street edges, with no discernable curbing, shall be edged in such a manner as to eliminate turf/grass from overlapping the roadway.

All edging shall be followed with a string trimmer to dress the top line of the grass. Turf along the edged areas shall be trimmed to ensure the height of the turf matches the entire turfed area. Turf shall not be higher near the edged area than the turf in the mow-able area. Optimally, the height should be no more than half an inch (1/2) above specified range of turfgrass.

All edging will be followed with a string trimmer to dress the top line of the grass.

All equipment used in cemetery on any/all inclines that are > 3% (greater 3 percent) shall be rated by equipment manufacturer specifications for such and must meet proper OSHA standards to be allowed for usage at any time on cemetery grounds and surroundings.

Care shall be taken that no clippings are blown into mulch beds. Clippings shall be removed from mulch beds by close of business on the day they were created.

The walkways and roads shall be cleaned of grass clippings, dirt, and leaves after all ground maintenance operations (mowing, string trimming, and edging). These areas shall be swept or blown off immediately after completion of ground maintenance operations.

Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds or equipment during grounds maintenance operations must be reported to the COR immediately. Contractor will be responsible for repair or replacement of all damage.

The COR will conduct random inspections of edging weekly.

GUARANTEE

Quality standard requires all edging to be ½” wide and 1” deep.

All roads, curbs, concrete horizontal surfaces will exhibit a clean and consistent appearance.

Tree circles will be edged in a perfect circle with a 3’ radius.

All surrounding horizontal surfaces, roadways, walkways, planting beds, tree circles, and concrete surfaces will be free of clippings and other debris by the end of the workday.

Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds or equipment during grounds maintenance operations must be reported to the COR immediately and repair / replacement shall be the responsibility of the Contractor at no cost to the Government.

B.4.1.4 TRIMMING OF HEADSTONES, MONUMENTS, MARKERS, AND OTHER VERTICAL

SURFACES

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 thereunder.

SCOPE

Weekly mow/trim/edge cycle shall be completed by in sections, daily. No section shall be left partially completed at the end of day. Mowing/trimming/edging must all be accomplished by burial section the day attempted.

Work consists of trimming all un-mowed grass around headstones, monuments, markers, valve cover boxes, drains, and other vertical surfaces to the recommended mowing height (2” unless specified 1” to 2.5” by COR) using string line-type trimmers.

Mowing shall be performed prior to trimming or edging. All trimming shall be done a minimum of once per week during the growing season (Typically Mid-February through November), following the approved mowing schedule.

All trimming shall be performed no more than one workday behind the mowers.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Trimming cycles will be done a minimum of once a week during growing (Typically Mid-February through November) or as directed by the COR. The growing season may require trimming twice weekly due to favorable weather conditions to keep the turf from growing more than ½” inch above the maximum recommended height of 2 inches.

Advanced Written Notice and COR Contracting Officer Approval is required prior to trimming more than once a week.

All trimmings shall follow the mowing schedule.

Trimming will be performed the same day behind the mowing cycle. All un-mowed grass around headstones, monuments, markers, rocks, trees, and other vertical surfaces shall be trimmed to keep the grass at the height standard (2” unless specified 1” to 2.5” by COR) using string line-type trimmers.

Turf in burial and public areas should be maintained at a height within ½” range of that which is professionally recommended for the recommended grass type for that geographic region.

Optimally, the height should be no more than half an inch (½) above that range. Grass is trimmed on borders.

Care will be taken near headstones to prevent damage or staining to the headstone, vases, and floral arrangements.

Grass clippings/stains will be removed from headstone bases after trimming.

Scalping is not acceptable. Trimmers will be kept level to prevent scalping between and around headstones. All string trimmers shall always have anti-scalping devices attached. Where scalping is evident, and does not recover, the Contractor will be responsible for repair of the damage at no cost to the Government.

All equipment used in cemetery on any/all inclines that are < 3% (greater 3 percent) shall be rated by equipment manufacturer specifications for such and must meet proper OSHA standards to be allowed for usage at any time on cemetery grounds and surroundings.

Discarded trimmer string shall be removed from the grounds the same day after trimming operations is complete.

Care will be taken that no clippings will be blown into mulch beds. Any clippings will be cleaned from mulch beds by close of business on the day trimming occurs.

The walkways and non-grass surfaces (inside and outside the cemetery), flagpole bases, interment areas, and roads will be cleared of grass clippings and leaves after mowing, string trimming, and edging.

Visibly prominent areas, such as administrative offices, public restrooms, shelters, pavilions, and columbarium, will have clippings blown or swept from roads and walkways as soon as the operation causing debris is completed.

Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds, or equipment during grounds maintenance operations must be reported to the COR immediately. Contractor will be responsible for repair or replacement of all damage.

The COR will conduct inspections of trimming weekly.

GUARANTEE

All edging will be followed with a string trimmer to dress the top line of the grass.

The overall appearance of turf shall be evenly presented and defined and trimming at level specifications of prescribed HOC.

Trimming will be performed the same day behind the mowing cycle. All un-mowed grass around headstones, monuments, markers, rocks, trees, and other vertical surfaces shall be trimmed to keep the grass at the height standard (2” unless specified 1” to 2” by COR) using string line-type trimmers.

Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds or equipment during grounds maintenance operations must be reported to the COR immediately and repair / replacement shall be the responsibility of the Contractor at no cost to the Government.

B.4.1.5 TRASH, LEAF, PINE NEEDLE, DEBRIS COLLECTION, AND REMOVAL

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 thereunder.

SCOPE OF WORK

Contractor shall provide a 40-yard facility trash dumpster for daily grounds maintenance services, and it shall be emptied at a minimum, every two weeks.

First thing in the morning, contractor personnel shall remove, sweep, blow all trash, debris, leaves in visually prominent areas i.e., two shelters, columbarium, Armed Forces Pavilion (AFP), administrative building, public restrooms, main gates, walkways, roads, and parking areas.

The Contractor supplied dumpster must be onsite no later than fourteen (14) days after contract award and arrival on site.

No trash shall be left in the interment section trash receptacles over the weekend.

Weekly or more frequently as needed installed trash receptacles shall be emptied and new liner placed in receptacles.

Contractor shall provide a 40-yard facility trash dumpster for daily grounds maintenance services, and it shall be emptied at a minimum, every two weeks.

The removal of trash, debris, leaves, etc. away from the cemetery grounds shall be the responsibility of the Contractor. Cemetery will not provide main collection rubbish/trash waste bins for Contractor usage.

Contractor shall provide necessary labor and suitable conveyance for pickup of trash and objectionable material and debris from cemetery grounds, including trash dispensers throughout the cemetery.

Leaves shall be removed as soon as they start falling. Leaves shall be hand raked, vacuumed, or blown by a walk-behind push type machines or backpack blowers from interment areas into the roadways, and then collected and properly disposed of from cemetery grounds.

Leaves shall not be cut up with any kind of mower or mulcher, unless the equipment used to cut leaves contains a vacuumed clippings collection system. Magnolia pods, leaves, and pine needles shall be removed daily and disposed of in the trash dumpster.

All trash, debris, contents of trash cans replaced with new liners daily, dead, or unsightly flowers, and all fallen tree limbs and branches not attached to the tree shall be removed from the cemetery grounds.

Any limbs or branches attached to the tree hanging down shall be reported to the COR as soon as possible for action.

Trash & Debris Removal: Work consists of collecting and removing all trash, debris, dead or unsightly flowers, tree limbs, as well as any other debris within the cemetery and area outside the cemetery walls/fence.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Flowers shall be removed when deemed unsightly and/or by the COR’s request.

Contractor may obtain guidance from the COR in unusual situations. Any items of value shall be retained in a palletized bin located in the Contractor’s lay-down area. Flower vases shall be collected and stored in a large bin for cemetery cleaning and reuse.

Storm Clean-Up (wind, rain, hail, snow, ice, etc.): Cemetery should be checked and cleaned up next working day following the storm unless the extent of the storm prompts municipal, state, or federal authorities to declare state of emergency. Should this occur, clean-up should be done as soon as emergency restrictions are lifted.

All unsightly grave decorations and/or flowers will be removed daily as needed in accordance with cemetery floral regulations. Serviceable floral cone vases will be cleaned and placed in the floral vase containers near the burial sections.

Unsightly (withered/dead flowers) and/or unauthorized decorations (balloons/spin wheels) are to be removed daily from the cemetery grounds.

The contractor shall provide the necessary labor and suitable conveyance each workday for pickup of trash, debris, grave decoration, and unsightly floral arrangements from the Cemetery’s grounds.

A dumpster placement area shall be in a designated area of the cemetery and screened from public view.

Removal and disposal of debris from the Cemetery’s grounds shall be the responsibility of the contractor for all items found in and around the Cemetery.

GUARANTEE

Contractor shall provide a 40-yard facility trash dumpster for daily grounds maintenance services, and it shall be emptied at a minimum, every two weeks.

First thing in the morning, contractor personnel shall remove, sweep, blow all trash, debris, leaves in visually prominent areas i.e., shelters, Armed Forces Pavilion, administrative building, public restrooms, main gates, walkways, roads and, parking areas.

Entire cemetery grounds and areas outside cemetery perimeter shall be free of all debris, trash, and leaves/pine needles/Magnolia pods.

Leaves shall not be cut up with any kind of mower or mulcher, unless the equipment used to cut leaves contains a vacuumed clippings collection system. Magnolia pods, leaves, pine needles, branches, and other debris/trash shall be removed daily and disposed of in the trash dumpster.

The contractor is responsible for all training, supplies, personal protective equipment (PPE), equipment, and/or tractor attachments required to complete job.

Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds or equipment during grounds maintenance operations must be reported to the COR immediately and repair / replacement shall be the responsibility of the Contractor at no cost to the Government.

No build-up of debris may be placed outside contractor lay-down area detracting from cemetery appearance. All collected debris and trash shall be placed immediately in 40-yard dumpster.

B.4.1.6 GRAVESITE TRASH, DEBRIS, AND DECORATION/FLORAL REMOVAL

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 thereunder.

SCOPE OF WORK

Bi-Monthly scheduled complete grounds pick-up and debris removal on scheduled floral policy pickup dates.

Typically scheduled 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month and posted at cemetery entrance for visitors.

Floral Policy dates and specifications shall be coordinated with the COR. Under no circumstances shall freshly placed floral arrangements in cemetery vases be removed from gravesites.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

All unsightly grave decorations and/or flowers will be removed daily or as needed in accordance with cemetery floral regulations. Serviceable floral cone vases will be cleaned and placed in the floral vase containers near the burial sections. American flags will be disposed of appropriately.

• All grave decorations once picked up, will be placed in the 30-day bin.

• The designation will consist of (1) bin for only artificial flowers and three separate bins which represent

30 days.

Unsightly (withered/dead flowers) and/or unauthorized decorations are to be removed daily from the cemetery grounds.

The contractor shall provide the necessary labor and suitable conveyance each workday for pickup of trash, debris, grave decoration, and unsightly floral arrangements from the Cemetery’s grounds.

A dumpster placement area shall be in a designated area of the cemetery and screened from public view.

Removal and disposal of debris from the Cemetery’s grounds shall be the responsibility of the contractor for all items found in and around the Cemetery.

GUARANTEE

Contractor shall provide a 40-yard facility trash dumpster for daily grounds maintenance services, and it shall be emptied at a minimum, every two weeks.

Full cemetery cleanup will be scheduled twice monthly (First and third Wednesday of each month) and posted on entry signage.

Strict adherence to the pick-up schedule, floral policy, and no removal of fresh flowers placed by visitors.

The contractor is responsible for all training, supplies, personal protective equipment (PPE), equipment, and/or tractor attachments required to complete job.

Any damage to headstones, cemetery fixtures, grounds or equipment during grounds maintenance operations must be reported to the COR immediately and repair / replacement shall be the responsibility of the Contractor at no cost to the Government.

B.4.2 GRAVESITE MAINTENANCE

NCA Cemetery Operations Operational Standards and Measures, v11.0 Sep. 2024

Category 4, Gravesite Assessment Review Sub-Category 1: GAR

• Standard 4.1.1: Gravesites and the appropriate Headstone, Marker, or Niche Cover are maintained within the guidelines and limits required to allow for a visually pleasing experience.

o Measure 4.1.1a: The percent of headstones, markers, and niche covers that do not show evidence of debris or Objectionable Accumulations.

o Measure 4.1.1b: The percent of gravesites that have grades which are level and blend with adjacent grade levels.

o Measure 4.1.1d: Turf around headstones is trimmed to the recommended height according to the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

o Measure 4.1.1e: The percent of gravesites where turf around flat markers is edged (not trimmed) according to the Grounds Management Plan and are free of trimming debris.

Category 5, Grounds Maintenance Sub-Category 2: Turf / Mineral Base

• Standard 5.2.1: Visually prominent areas have sand, mineral, or well-established, healthy stand of turf.

o Measure 5.2.1: Sand, mineral, or turf in visually prominent areas are generally weed free.

• Standard 5.2.4: Visually Prominent Areas have a well-established, healthy stand of turf.

o Measure 5.2.4a: Visually Prominent Areas with established turf are Generally Free of Bare Areas.

• Standard 5.2.5: The turf used is compatible with the geographic region.

o Measure 5.2.5: The cemetery is using turf that is compatible with the geographic region.

• Standard 5.2.7: Avoid damage and ensure continuation of a well-established, healthy stand of turf during grounds maintenance operations.

o Measure 5.2.7: Turf damage due to grounds maintenance tasks is identified and corrective action initiated by close of business the same day.

• Standard 5.2.8: The grade of every gravesite blends in with adjacent grade levels.

o Measure 5.2.8: Sunken graves have been identified and a plan of action developed to re-establish the ground level and cover within 30 calendar days of the date identified.

• Standard 5.2.9: Gravesite openers and re-openers avoid damage and ensure continuation of a well-established, healthy stand of turf, presenting a disciplined evolution, not a construction site.

o Measure 5.2.9a: Interments (first and subsequent) during the growing season that show healthy turf re-established within 60 days of the interment.

o Measure 5.2.9b: Winter grave re-openers that show healthy turf re-established within 60 days of the start of the growing season.

Sub-Category 3: Tree and Shrubs

• Standard 5.3.1: Trees and shrubs are healthy, and free of pests and disease, and/or are maintained in accordance with the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

o Measure 5.3.1: Trees and shrubs are healthy and free of pests and disease, and/or are maintained in accordance with the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

Sub-Category 4: Planting Beds

• Standard 5.4.1: Cemetery Planting Beds are well maintained, attractive, and compatible with the geographic region.

o Measure 5.4.1a: Planting beds are Generally Weed-Free.

o Measure 5.4.1b: Plants in planting beds are healthy, free of pests and disease, and are maintained in accordance with the Cemetery Grounds Management Plan.

Category 3, Facility Maintenance Sub-Category 3 and 4: Environmental Management / Waste Management

• Standard 3.3.2: Spoils areas do not detract from cemetery appearance.

o Measure 3.3.2: The cemetery's spoils are located in areas that minimize public visibility.

Category 8, Safety Sub-Category 1 and 2: Operations / Personnel

• Standard 8.1.2: In accordance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA)

Walking Working Surfaces: All areas where cemetery operations have been conducted are neat, clean, and free of debris and equipment at the end of the workday.

o Measure 8.1.2a: 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 and snow or storm debris).

o Measure 8.1.2b: Safety hazards (holes, hazardous trees and branches, sprinkler heads, etc.)

identified and corrective action initiated within the same workday.

• Standard 8.2.1: Necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and safety measures will be adhered to at all times. (Within NCA, PPE is addressed in specific OSHA standards for General Industry and Construction. OSHA requires that many categories of PPE meet or be equivalent to standards developed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)).

o Measure 8.2.1a: Personnel wear appropriate uniform in accordance with NCA’s Directive

B.4.2.1 REPAIR SUNKEN GRAVES

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements which form a part of these specifications, and…