Questions and Answers.pdf

Solicitation #:36C78625Q50262 – Complete Grounds Maintenance at Chattanooga National Cemetery

Questions and Answers

1. Hello, I am contacting you over the Chattanooga cemetery grounds maintenance in the scope of work do you all want a monthly or weekly pay schedule and on the bid also do you all need each price per line item or overall price per month for job. I went over the scope and didnt see a bid schedule

Answer: Please review the excel price schedule that was uploaded on SAM.gov on May 8, 2025. If monthly is list, then we want the price per month. If weekly is list, then we want the price per week. If Job is list, then we want the price per job.

2. Is there an incumbent performing services?

Answer: Worrell Contracting CO Inc

3. What was the previous award amount including option years?

Answer: You can request the dollar amount through a Freedom of Information Act

(FOIA)

4. What was the total value of base plus 4-year incumbent?

Answer: A six-month bridge contract was awarded in August 2024 with an option to extend for another six-month to the incumbent. You can request the dollar amount through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

5. The contractor lay down area appears to be beside the spoils area, is that correct?

Answer: Yes, SOW page 32 depicts the contractor laydown area in a labeled picture.

6. Will the contractor have to provide porta potties in contractor employee use?

Answer: It is recommended the contractor provides portable facilities to their employees. The contractor laydown area does not have installed facilities. The government does not provide portable restrooms.

7. Who is the current incumbent and what is the current value of base and all options?

Answer: Refer to above questions 2, 3 and 4.

8. Is the current contract a bridge contract if so, what was the previous contract #?

Answer: Yes, Contract No.: 36C78624C50411

9. PWS B.4.1.2 How many flat markers are there?

Answer: Chattanooga National Cemetery has 3 sections that are designated flat granite with 2343 gravesites of which 1947 are occupied. There are various flat markers in the cemetery set as foot stones due to tree obstructions.

10. How many upright Headstone are there?

Answer: There are approximately 46,537 upright markers at Chattanooga National Cemetery.

11. PWS B.4.3.2 / B.4.3.3 What is the approximate yards of hardwood mulch used for each application of mulch?

Answer: There are 11 areas of unique rock cropping is provided on page 35(clin 0012). These areas including the surrounding banking areas to the maintenance facility and Spoils yard require mulching. In addition, 190 tree circles throughout the cemetery require mulching (clin 0011).

All tree rings and planting beds shall be kept uniform in appearance.

• Approximately 190 tree rings with a 3’ radius.

• Tree rings shall exhibit a flat (following contour of the grade of turf) and even appearance with a 3’ radius.

• 4” gap from the base of the tree or roots shall be free of mulch to prevent moisture at the base of the trees.

• Mulching shall be aesthetically pleasing to the eye, and maintained free of weeds, sticks, stones, clippings, and other foreign material to include bugs, ants, and other pests.

• The saucers (watering basins/ tree rings) around planted trees, shrubs, bushes, and/or planted material shall be kept free of grass and weed growth.

This requirement has not been contracted out previously in totality and mulch yardage estimation is not available.

12. PWS B.4.3.1 - What vendor is currently being used for the topsoil?

Answer: There are various local venders that the prime contractor may utilize.

13. How many AC of the Zeon Zoysia is there to treated?

Answer: Chattanooga currently has an estimated 5 acres of Zeon Zoysia.

14. Topic: CLIN 0006 Unit of Measurement Reference: Pricing Schedule Question: Can you clarify what ZB stands for? Since the service will occur bi-monthly, should the unit of measurement be week or JB?

Answer: ZB stands for Bi-Monthly. Bi-Monthly (defined as invoicing twice a month) scheduled complete grounds pick-up and debris removal on scheduled floral policy pickup dates. ZB is defined as twice monthly, also illustrated as bi-monthly with an invoicing of no more than two times a month. In a calendar year, there will be 24 quantities for twice a month.

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

ZB supports a scheduled floral pickup that occurs twice a month.

15. Topic: Mowing Acreage Reference: CLIN 0001 Question: The fertilization section of the SOW shows 110 acres of Bermuda grass and 5 acres of Zeon zysia. Would that mean that mowing acreage is 115 acres?

Answer:

Cemetery Address Acreage Required Services Chattanooga National Cemetery

1200 Bailey Ave Chattanooga, TN 37404

Currently:

110 Turf Acres

Grounds Maintenance Services

Page 2 of the SOW specifies Chattanooga National Cemetery has 110 turf acres.

Application N2 rates are specified on page 43 for Zeon Zoysia.

5 acres of the total 110 acres are designated Zeon Zoysia.

The two types of turf are specified as Bermuda 419 and Zeon Zoysia.

16. Topic: CLIN 0002 Edging Flat Markers Reference: B.4.1.2 Question: How many flat markers are at Chattanooga NC?

Answer: Chattanooga National Cemetery has 3 sections that are designated flat granite with 2343 gravesites of which 1947 are occupied. There are various flat markers in the cemetery set as foot stones due to tree obstructions.

17. Topic: Headstones Reference: PWS B.4.1.4 – Trimming of Headstones, Monuments, Markers, and Other Vertical Services Question: How many headstones are presently installed at Chattanooga National Cemetery?

Answer: There are approximately 46,537 upright markers at Chattanooga National Cemetery.

18. Topic: Mowing Patterns

REF: PWS B.4.1.1

Question: The PWS states: “Rotation of directional mowing shall be performed each mowing cycle in best practice to prevent ground rutting from mowing equipment and promote turf health.” Does this mean the contractor is responsible for changing mowing patterns by mowing down the headstone columns and between the rows (perpendicular to the traditional mowing pattern), or only for shifting tire patterns down the rows with each service?

Answer: SOW is as stated. Direction of each row shall be changed weekly to ensure an even and consistent cut. Rutting is caused by mowers following the same pattern and the grade of turf developing rutting in the rows. The contractor shall ensure the pattern is adjusted weekly to ensure the same pattern does not cause indentions on veteran gravesites by shifting pattern left or right between the established rows.

Cross mowing is a practice of mowing vertically between the headstones and this contract SOW does not specify or require this practice.

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.

19. Topic: Edging of Walkways, Curbs, and Other Horizontal Surfaces

REF: PWS B.4.1.3

Question: What is the estimated linear footage of walkways, curbs, manhole covers, tree circles, planting beds, and other horizontal surfaces requiring edging?

Answer: linear estimated footage of roadways is 10,560 feet. Additional edging of roadways, manhole covers, and sidewalks: Manhole covers are located throughout the cemetery along the main roadways for storm drainage and linear footage is not available, sidewalks are located at the main administrating building & public restrooms, columbarium and armed forces pavilion area, two shelters, and the paver stones are at the main entrance & old Baily ave. entrance & a circle at the Raider’s monument. The cemetery does not have actual linear footage estimates available.

20. Topic: Mowing / Double Cuts

REF: PWS B.4.1.1

Question: If the contractor is required to cut more than once a week, will the contractor be permitted to bill for two cuts?

Answer: Mowing turf area is invoiced by JB.

21. Topic: Setting Initial and Replacement Headstones

REF: CLIN 0029

Questions: Approximately how many of the 1,000 headstones under CLIN 0029 will be initial headstone settings, and how many will be replacements? Can a percentage or split be estimated if a number cannot be provided? For example, 40% are replacements, and 60% are initials.

Answer: Chattanooga National Cemetery conducted 1110 burials in 2024. 681 caskets, 246 IGC’s and 124 columbarium. New markers for IGC and Crypt fields are roughly estimated at 60% compared to subsequent interments. There are a small percent of replacement markers due to damage or becoming unreadable.

22. Topic: Topsoil Delivery

REF: CLIN 0009

Question: Can the contractor utilize the delivered topsoil for other services such as sodding and sunken grave repair or is this topsoil delivered solely for the government use?

Answer: Topsoil delivery is provided for burial operations of the cemetery staff.

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.

23. Topic: Mulch Bed Weeding

Reference: PWS A.1.16 and CLIN 0015 Question: B.4.3.2 of the SOW states All mulch beds and tree circles shall be kept weed(s), fire ants and disease free and All mulched areas shall be kept 95% free of weeds by hand weeding or careful spot spraying with a non-selective herbicide monthly from April through October. Further the Quality Assurance Plan chart on page 95 states the performance objective is 100% of the Mulch beds are properly mulched and maintained as generally weed free. To keep planting beds and tree rings weed-free would require monthly, if not weekly, maintenance. However, the CLIN for this service is a quantity of 4. Can the government confirm if this CLIN is intended for quarterly-annual mulching or if it should be increased to monthly planting bed and tree ring maintenance from April to October to ensure the beds remain weed-free and insect-free year-round?

Answer: National Shrines are required to be generally weed free. The incumbent shall follow the procedure for replacing mulch as specified. The contractor has the responsibility to ensure the quality standards are met by maintaining the mulched areas by the ongoing requirement on page 33.

Weed Control: All mulched areas shall be kept 95% free of weeds by hand weeding or careful spot spraying with a non-selective herbicide monthly from April through October. NOTE: Glyphosate products are prohibited from use without the written permission of the District Agronomist.

To reduce weed emergence, a pre-emergence herbicide shall be applied at the maximum label-allowed rate to all mulched areas in conjunction with non-selective herbicide annually. Tree mulch areas shall be always 95% free of suckers and weeds.

24. Topic: Mulching Trees, Shrubs, and Planting Beds

Reference: CLIN 0011 Question: How many total square feet of area is to be mulched under CLIN 0011?

Answer: There are 11 areas of unique rock cropping is provided on page 35(clin 0012). These areas including the surrounding banking areas to the maintenance facility and Spoils yard require mulching. In addition, 190 tree circles throughout the cemetery require mulching (clin 0011).

All tree rings and planting beds shall be kept uniform in appearance.

• Approximately 190 tree rings with a 3’ radius.

• Tree rings shall exhibit a flat (following contour of the grade of turf) and even appearance with a 3’ radius.

• 4” gap from the base of the tree or roots shall be free of mulch to prevent moisture at the base of the trees.

• Mulching shall be aesthetically pleasing to the eye, and maintained free of weeds, sticks, stones, clippings, and other foreign material to include bugs, ants, and other pests.

• The saucers (watering basins/ tree rings) around planted trees, shrubs, bushes, and/or planted material shall be kept free of grass and weed growth.

25. Topic: Mulching Rock Cropping Areas

Reference: CLIN 0012 Question: How many total square feet of area is to be mulched under CLIN 0012?

Answer: There are 11 areas of unique rock cropping is provided on page 35(clin 0012). These areas including the surrounding banking areas to the maintenance facility and Spoils yard require mulching. In addition, 190 tree circles throughout the cemetery require mulching (clin 0011).

All tree rings and planting beds shall be kept uniform in appearance.

• Approximately 190 tree rings with a 3’ radius.

• Tree rings shall exhibit a flat (following contour of the grade of turf) and even appearance with a 3’ radius.

• 4” gap from the base of the tree or roots shall be free of mulch to prevent moisture at the base of the trees.

• Mulching shall be aesthetically pleasing to the eye, and maintained free of weeds, sticks, stones, clippings, and other foreign material to include bugs, ants, and other pests.

• The saucers (watering basins/ tree rings) around planted trees, shrubs, bushes, and/or planted material shall be kept free of grass and weed growth.

26. Topic: Rock Cropping Areas Reference: CLINs 0012

Question: Can the government provide the estimated square footage of this area?

facility and Spoils yard require mulching. In addition, 190 tree circles throughout the cemetery require mulching (clin 0011).

All tree rings and planting beds shall be kept uniform in appearance.

• Approximately 190 tree rings with a 3’ radius.

• Tree rings shall exhibit a flat (following contour of the grade of turf) and even appearance with a 3’ radius.

• 4” gap from the base of the tree or roots shall be free of mulch to prevent moisture at the base of the trees.

• Mulching shall be aesthetically pleasing to the eye, and maintained free of weeds, sticks, stones, clippings, and other foreign material to include bugs, ants, and other pests.

• The saucers (watering basins/ tree rings) around planted trees, shrubs, bushes, and/or planted material shall be kept free of grass and weed growth.

27. Topic: Rock Cropping Areas Reference: SOW B.4.3.3

Question: The SOW section B.4.3.3 states there are 15 unique rock cropping areas however there are only 11-13 showing on the map in this same SOW section. Can the map or SOW language be updated to show the correct number?

facility and Spoils yard require mulching. In the areas marked, there are multiple areas of rock croppings that are expected to have mulch accents provided.

28. Topic: Shrub Pruning

Question: Will the contractor be responsible for shrub pruning? If yes, which CLIN should this be priced under, and how many shrubs are onsite?

Answer: This contract does not state pruning of shrubs. A monthly requirement of all trees is stated and covered in clin 13.

29. Topic: Tree Maintenance

Reference: CLIN 0013, SOW B.4.3.4 Question: Approximately how many trees with the contractor be responsible for pruning? Answer: Chattanooga National Cemetery is a 120 acre facility with numerous trees depicted on page 35. A monthly requirement is specified in B.4.3.4.

An exact count of trees is not available. The requirement for this contract is a continual monthly service to all trees to maintain 15-foot canopy clearance and shaping of smaller trees.

The SOW seems to contradict itself. B.4.3.4 says that the contractor shall be required to maintain all trees on the cemetery grounds and its entirety regardless of height and later in the same section it says trees eighteen (18”) inches in diameter or larger and/or limbs 3” in diameter that require a professional tree service shall be the responsibility of the Chattanooga National Cemetery. Is the contractor responsible for trees up to 18” in diameter, or all trees regardless of height?

Answer: The Chattanooga National Cemetery is responsible for any tree work beyond the scope of the GM contractor in the SOW. The grounds maintenance contractor is to maintain shaping of all trees smaller than 18” diameter and pruning of all trees to ensure 15’ canopies allow sunlight to the turf.

If the contractor is not responsible for trees over 18”, can the government also confirm that we are only responsible for tree maintenance up to 15’ off the ground?

Answer:. Tree work due to Extreme weather damage will be assessed by the COR under the same specifications as the scope of clin 0013. Trees over 18” in diameter shall be the responsibility of cemetery for removal.

30. Topic: Topdressing

Reference: SOW B.4.1.1 Questions: The SOW section B.4.1.1 states “Top dressing areas with ruts from turf mowing to be completed once a year or on an as needed bases, requested by the COR.

Proper topdressing techniques shall be utilized (example – sand) and shall be approved by the COR prior to completion.” Which CLIN should this service be billed under? Answer: Rutting is caused by improper mowing patterns and/or negligence in proper adherence to the procedures provided in B.4.1.1. It is incumbent upon the contractor to ensure quality standards by the following on page 7:

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.

Can the government provide measurable data on the square footage or acreage requiring this service? Answer: 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.

31. Topic: Hazardous Waste

Reference: SOW B.4.3.1 Questions: B.4.3.1 of the SOW states the contractor shall dispose of all hazardous waste in accordance with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), and all other applicable Federal, State, and Local laws and regulations. Will the contractor be responsible for disposing of the government’s hazardous waste? Answer:

The Contractor shall dispose of all hazardous waste in accordance with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and all other applicable Federal, State, and Local law and regulations. No on-installation storage or disposal of hazardous waste is allowed.

There are no provisions stated in the SOW to dispose of hazardous waste that is originated by the government.

Will there be hazardous waste in the spoils removed, or is this intended for any hazardous materials the contractor will use, such as pesticides? Answer:

Cemetery spoils do not have hazardous waste.

The Contractor shall dispose of all hazardous waste in accordance with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and all other applicable Federal, State, and Local law and regulations. No on-installation storage or disposal of hazardous waste is allowed.

32. Topic: Headstone Cleaning Reference: CLIN 0023 Questions: B.4.5.5 of the SOW states cleaning will occur before Memorial Day and Veterans Day, or twice a year. However, it is noted that the price schedule has an annual quantity of 49,000. Will the contractor clean 49,000 headstones twice a year for 98,000 annual headstones, or will the 49,000 headstones be split, with 24,500 completed before Memorial Day and 24,500 completed before Veterans Day?

Answer: Price cost schedule has 49,000 headstone cleanings.

33. Topic: Parking Question: How many vehicles can fit in the area designated for contractor parking?

Answer: The gravel parking lot illustrated on page 32 of the SOW as ‘Event Parking’ ca accommodate up to 40 vehicles.

34. Topic: Snow Removal and Storm Damage Reference: CLIN 0005 and 0022 Questions: SOW B.4.1.5 mentions storm cleanup (including wind, rain, hail, snow, and ice damage) in conjunction with CLIN 0005, while CLIN 0022 and section B.4.4.6 specifically address extreme storm damage. Could you please clarify:

1. What is the distinction between regular storm cleanup under CLIN 0005 and extreme storm damage under CLIN 0022?

Answer: B.4.1.5 provides a scope, general requirements and quality standards in the guaranteed section. The requirements are very detailed and specific to the NCA standards and measures V11 listed on page 6 of the SOW. National Shrine standards are expected daily in clin 005 to ensure veterans, families and other stakeholders have a presentable National Cemetery upon visiting.

B.4.4.6 is stated as: COR Approval in writing is required prior to beginning this service.

In the instance of a storm/severe weather event, the cemetery shall be checked and cleaned up the next business/workday following the storm/severe weather event. If the magnitude of the storm/severe weather event prompts civil defense authorities to declare a state of emergency and/or restrict travel to emergency services/emergency movement only; cemetery clean-up shall be completed as soon as emergency restrictions are lifted.

2. Are we responsible for automatically performing all storm cleanup under CLIN 0005, or should some storm damage cleanup only be performed upon activation of

CLIN 0022?

Answer: B.4.1.5 provides a scope, general requirements and quality standards in the guaranteed section. The requirements are very detailed and specific to the NCA standards and measures V11 listed on page 6 of the SOW. National Shrine standards are expected daily in clin 005 to ensure veterans, families and other stakeholders have a presentable National Cemetery upon visiting.

B.4.4.6 is stated as: COR Approval in writing is required prior to beginning this service.

3. Is there a specific threshold or criteria that determines when storm cleanup falls under CLIN 0022 instead of the regular maintenance in CLIN 0005?"

Answer: A severe weather event and associated damage will be determined by the government and determination will be communicated in writing to authorize clin 0022 based on an FTE hourly rate.

35. Topic: Fertilization of Bermuda

REF: CLIN 0014 SOW B.4.4.1

Question: CLIN 0014 has a quantity of three; however, the schedule proposed on pages 41 and 53 lists five different applications. Should CLIN 0014 be updated to a quantity of five?

Answer: The price schedule provided specifies a quantity of 3 jobs.

36. Topic: Fertilization of Bermuda

REF: CLIN 0015 SOW B.4.4.1

Question: CLIN 0015 has a quantity of three; however, the schedule proposed on pages 43 and 53 lists five different applications. Should CLIN 0015 be updated to a quantity of five?

Answer: The price schedule provided specifies a quantity of 3 jobs.

37. Topic: Manual Watering

REF: SOW B.4.4.1

Question: The SOW states that manual watering may be required to maintain the cemetery grounds. Which CLIN would this service fall under and can the government provide more detail on this requirement. 105 acres of manual watering would be most efficient with powered water reels and the government's 3”+ water supply lines.

Answer: The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing and watering of all newly sodded areas and maintaining them in a healthy and vigorous condition.

Repaired gravesites shall be spot watered with hoses or other watering methods as needed when rainfall is insufficient for the new sod.

• Newly installed sod shall be watered within 1/2 hour of installation.

• Newly installed sod shall be watered daily - to the point of saturation - for the first two weeks. The Contractor shall begin less frequent and deeper watering after the first two weeks.

• Weather conditions will dictate the amount and frequency of watering.

All repaired areas shall be sodded within thirty (30) days of repair. Healthy turf shall be re-established within sixty (60) days of repair completion during the growing season.

38. Topic: Pre-Emergent Application

REF: CLIN 0016 and B.4.4.2

Question: CLIN 0016 has a quantity of three; however, the schedule proposed on pages 43 and 52 lists two different applications. Should CLIN 0016 be three or two services?

Answer: The price schedule provided specifies a quantity of 3.

39. Topic: Weed Control

REF: SOW B.4.4.2

Question: The SOW section B.4.4.2 states that the contractor is responsible for spot applications of post emergent herbicide should be performed however there is not CLIN for spot applications. Can the government provide a CLIN specific to this type of application?

Answer: The pricing schedule does not have spot treatment. The mulching beds associated with clins 0011 & 0012 have a spot or hand weeding requirement to maintain shrine standards in mulched areas.

Exact square footage is not available.

40. Topic: Pressure Washing

REF: CLINs 0024-0027 Question: Can the government provide the estimated square footage of each of the following:

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

Answer: AN estimate of square footage for the structures, two shelters, Armed

Forces Pavilion, gutters, walkways & columbarium are not available.

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

Answer: AN estimate of square footage is not available.

3. Power Washing All Cemetery Roadway Curbs and Paver Stones.

Answer: Estimated curb linear footage is 10,560. Paver stones at entrance and

Raider’s monument linear footage is not available.

4. Power Washing All Memorial Circle Monuments.

Answer: There are an estimated 32 Memorial monuments at the main flagpole area and 3 Monuments at the administrative building, and 2 Blue/Gold star monuments at the Main entrance.

41. Topic: Minimum Staffing Requirements

Reference: SOW B.4.7.3 Questions: The SOW section B.4.7.3 states that the contractor will supply a minimum of fourteen (14) employees and one (1) Site Supervisor dedicated to performing all services outlined year-round. There are clear ebbs and flows of work based on the CLINs. For example, mowing is more frequent in the summer and less frequent in the winter. Additionally, pest control and fertilization CLINs are more abundant and frequent during the growing season from March through October. Finally, the combined solicitation document indicates that this is an IDIQ contract, which does not procure or specify a firm quantity of services (other than a minimum or maximum quantity). Could the government please revise or remove the minimum staffing requirement? Numerous factors dictate the necessary staffing level, such as funding, services ordered, weather, and the time of year. If the government does not eliminate this requirement, how will the contractor be compensated for maintaining 15 employees on staff when there is a continuing resolution or when varying CLINs are ordered?

Answer: This contract has 32 clins and is classified as a complex IDIQ contract requiring a year-round project management approach to deliver services while meeting quality standards. The incumbent will work with the COR in weekly meetings to ensure appropriate planning occurs to realistically complete the work requirement with the prescribed staffing as per the SOW.

42. Topic: Past Performance

Question: Please confirm that the past performance of a subcontractor who will perform a substantial portion of the work will be considered equal to that of prime contract experience. Since the FAR and SBA rules permit a subcontractor to perform up to 49% of the work, meaningful consideration of the subcontractor is fair and reasonable. See OMB Memorandum, July 10, 2014, “Making Better Use of Contractor Performance Information” (recommending agencies request “information about subcontractors and contractor team arrangements Request that prime contractors provide past performance information on subcontractors and contractor team arrangements.” “This will give the source selection official a complete view and better understanding of the prime contractor, subcontractors and contractor team arrangements’ performance capabilities.”) OFPP BEST PRACTICES for COLLECTING AND USING CURRENT AND PAST PERFORMANCE INFORMATION (Recommending CPARS list major subcontractors: “Listing these firms allows them to cite the contract for past performance purposes in proposals for future work either as prime contractors or as subcontractors or other partners. Source selection teams may review the assessment to determine the ratings given for the work for which these firms were responsible.”)

Answer: While consideration is given to the subcontractor’s past performance, in conducting a comparative evaluation, the Contracting Officer must also consider the following: A teaming agreement is an arrangement between two or more companies either as a partnership or joint venture. Typically, with the SDVOSB acting as the Prime Contractor and the other associated contractor(s) acting as the subcontractor to the prime. The biggest risk encountered in such agreements is whether the prime contract intends to award a subcontract to the potential subcontractor or that potential subcontractor backing out. In comparing past performance, the CO will consider both the Prime and subcontractor past performance in conducting a comparative evaluation. The evaluation will consider past performance information regarding predecessor companies, key personnel who have relevant experience, or subcontractors that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement when such information is relevant to the instant acquisition. For joint ventures, the evaluation shall consider past performance of the joint venture. If the joint venture does not demonstrate past performance for award, the Co shall consider the past performance of each party to the joint venture. In any event, if the Prime does not have past performance and is relying on the subcontractor’s past performance, the prime contractor will be required to submit information about subcontractor(s) and contract team arrangements. If there is only a team agreement and not a joint venture consideration is given to the subcontractor’s past performance however, I don’t see how that Prime merits equal consideration as far as contract experience when the experience solely belongs to the subcontractor.

43. Topic: Past Performance

Question: Please confirm that relevant past performance examples may include work performed by a proposed major subcontractor as a prime contractor or major subcontractor. The experience and past performance gained by a subcontractor who is proposed for up to 49% of the work here and who previously served as a prime or major subcontractor on an NCA project provides added value to the VA.

Answer: Refer to the above question number 42.

44. Is it too late to ask who the incumbent was and total ward, for how many years?

Answer: Refer to above questions 2, 3 and 4.

45. This question is in regard to the mowing of turf area. I see the quantity is 36 can you please give me the acreage per area?

Answer: Chattanooga National Cemetery has 110 turf acres.

46. B.4.3.4 Tree Maintenance: Please confirm contractors are to exclude all tree exceeding 18 inches in diameter from monthly maintenance? Please also clarify if the contractor is to price the application of pesticides to trees and root systems (fungicide, herbicides, insecticides) and fertilizer?

Answer: The Chattanooga National Cemetery is responsible for any tree work beyond the scope of the GM contractor in the SOW. The grounds maintenance contractor is to maintain shaping of all trees smaller than 18” diameter and pruning of all trees to ensure 15’ canopies allow sunlight to the turf.

47. B.4.4 Turf Maintenance: Can the government provide the most recent soil testing data to assist in pricing and to confirm the need for services?

Answer: Soil tests are obtained by the contractor or their representative. Copy of results emailed to COR and Contractor.

Soil samples must be tested by University of Tennessee extension agency. Test results will show any deficiencies and the needed corrections. A minimum of four

(4) sections in the cemetery must be done for soil test to give full comparison average. Soil tests must be done at a minimum, but not limited to, once annually.

Soil sampling has not been part of the previous scope of work at Chattanooga National Cemetery.

48. B.4.4.2 Weed Control: Is the government satisfied with the current weed control program, or do adjustments need to be made?

Answer: Expectations of weed control are provided in B.4.4.2.

49. B.4.5.2 Disposal of Headstones and Markers: Would the government allow the recycling of headstones at a concrete plant for use in their crusher if documentation of the destruction of the headstone is achieved?

Answer: No. Headstone/markers shall be destructed on cemetery property to ensure Veteran monuments are not legible, logged and not repurposed for other usage. The COR must surveille the destruction of these monuments are completed out of public view.

� Standard 6.4.1: Headstones, markers, and niche covers that are no longer useable are disposed of in a manner that prevents reuse. o Measure 6.4.1a: Headstones, markers, and niche covers that are no longer useable are destroyed in a manner that obliterates the inscription and is dispositioned to prevent reuse; or placed within the existing gravesite for disposal to prevent reuse.

50. Can the government provide site maps/section maps/GLM's?

Answer: Government will provide GLM’s to the incumbent contractor.

51. Is Hedge Pruning Included in scope (Specifically hedge by Maintenance shop)?

Answer: Hedging and pruning of shrubs are not included in the scope.

52. Are Glyphosate products permitted indefinitely if/after single approval?

Answer: Weed Control: All mulched areas shall be kept 95% free of weeds by hand weeding or careful spot spraying with a non-selective herbicide monthly from April through October. NOTE: Glyphosate products are prohibited from use without the written permission of the District Agronomist.

53. Page 41 b.4.4.1 Scope document shows 5 rounds fertilizer. Total cost estimate sheet shows

3 rounds of fertilizer. Can this be Clarified?

Answer: The price schedule provided specifies a quantity of 3.

54. B.4.3.2 During the Site Visit: Mentioned intent to shrink the tree rings, take off all mulch, seed remaining newly bare/non mulched perimeter. Will this be handled by the contractor, and/or will this be included/priced out in the SOW/Pricing Section?

Answer: No mention of tree ring changes was stated during the site visit.

Tree rings will remain the same quantity in the SOW at 190 and no discussion was provided by the government to reduce mulch requirement. An illustration of the unique rock cropping is provided on page 35. In addition, the SOW provides the following general requirements for tree circle mulching.

All tree rings and planting beds shall be kept uniform in appearance.

• Approximately 190 tree rings with a 3’ radius.

• Tree rings shall exhibit a flat (following contour of the grade of turf) and even appearance with a 3’ radius.

• 4” gap from the base of the tree or roots shall be free of mulch to prevent moisture at the base of the trees.

• Mulching shall be aesthetically pleasing to the eye, and maintained free of weeds, sticks, stones, clippings, and other foreign material to include bugs, ants, and other pests.

• The saucers (watering basins/ tree rings) around planted trees, shrubs, bushes, and/or planted material shall be kept free of grass and weed growth.

The mapped unique rock croppings (clin 0012) have not been covered in the previous contractual requirement. The areas specified in the SOW and picture require mulch accents for aesthetic appeal. Requirements are specified in the SOW.

55. Will the Cemetery be in compliance upon start of new PoP?

Answer: Cemetery will follow all authorizations provided by the Contracting Officer.

56. Will irrigation be fully operations upon start of the new PoP?

Answer: 5 of 110 acres are irrigated and operational.

57. Laydown: Can the Government provide measurements or frame of reference of the Contractor's Laydown Area? Anything specifically prohibited at this site to store in the laydown area?

Answer: Laydown area is depicted on page 32. The government has an empty conex box in the back corner and the storage of concrete and poly vaults along the fence line. There is an estimated 2500 square feet available for contractor storage and work vehicle parking. Laydown area is intended for relevant equipment, supplies and any temporary storage associated with the services of the contract. This is a federal facility, and weapons or illegal substances are not allowed on the premises.

58. Laydown: Is electric/meter available for the contractor lay down area?

Answer: The government does not provide electric, and a meter is not located in this area.

59. Laydown: May Contractor have onsite fuel tanks if all state/federal guidelines are followed?

Answer: No, this area is provided for temporary storage of supplies, equipment, and items necessary for services. Any fuel tanks will need to be on a vehicle or in cans that are kept in a flammable storage locker. The government will not accommodate permanent installed tanks.

60. Laydown: Is there room in the laydown or at the maintenance area for dumpsters for refuse/debris, and/or Headstone Disposal?

Answer: B.4.1.5 specifies that the contractor shall provide a dumpster. 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.

Page 32 of the SOW depicts a labeled area the dumpster shall be placed.

61. Can the government indicate if working water spigots are available throughout the cemetery for power washing activities of shelters and sidewalks.

Answer: Yes, operational spickets are available and serviced/repaired by the government.

62. P41: "Water will be furnished by the Government; this facility has an automatic irrigation system for 5 of the 110 turf acres. Water spickets are available throughout cemetery grounds. Manual watering may be required to maintain the cemetery ground(s) in prime grow seasons and drought conditions." Is this accurate, only five acres? Can the government please further specify when/how often manual watering would be required, and/or what factors or incidents that would constitute contractor's responsibility to manually water?

Answer: 5 of 10 acres are irrigated. It is incumbent upon the contractor to water new sod placed via clins 0007 and 0008 until growth is established. The government is responsible for watering turf during drought conditions.

63. Through discussions with our preferred subcontractor for our State Certified

Commercial Pesticide Applicator, we were made aware that a WEC certification would not be applicable to this contract, and historically has not been a requirement for the cemetery. Will the government consider removing the WEC category from the required license?

Answer: The GMC for Chattanooga shall include the treatment of all turf areas that encompass the cemetery. The TN pesticide category C06 - Right-of-Way is required for any and all applications made to the outside wall and front entrance of the Chattanooga NC along South Holtzclaw Ave; as this areas is a considered a “Right of way” in the Chattanooga, TN.

The WEC certification can be waived, however the applicator must have a current State of Tennessee commercial applicators license with category’s C03- Turf and Ornamental and C06 – Right of Way issued by the State of Tennessee Department of Agriculture.

These are the requirements, per the State of Tennessee for the commercial applications services outlined in the GMC for Chattanooga NC.

https://www.tn.gov/agriculture/businesses/pesticides/certification.html

We do not have the authority to grant a waiver for State license requirements, this will need to come from State of Tennessee Department of Agriculture. Until a waiver or letter granting the exclusion for the Right of way by the State of Tennessee Dept of Agriculture is provided, the state requirement is for a valid state of Tennessee commercial applicator license with the categories in CO3-Turf and Ornamental and C06-Right of Way are the requirement for the GMC at Chattanooga NC.

Here is a direct contact for State of TN dept of Ag for more information:

JIM ENDSLEY / Compliance & Grant Supervisor Department of Agriculture

Pesticide Section Ellington Agricultural Center, Porter Building P.O. Box 40627, Nashville, Tennessee 37204 (phone) 615-837-5138 (fax) 615-837-5012 https://www.tn.gov/agriculture/businesses/pesticides/certification.html jim.endsley@tn.gov www.tn.gov/agriculture mailto:kathy.booker@tn.gov https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Furldefense.proofpoint.com%2Fv2%2Furl%3Fu%3Dhttp-3A__www.tn.gov_agriculture%26d%3DDwMFAg%26c%3D8K0mnSt5E4j4U_dMGxZxbA%26r%3DVArHU6ZRVK8s7qeCnORqgH_1BBTtdJovXK1RtOKsUGE%26m%3DK3OSYs_ckN9dNm5U9P4Kabj8FcGwpyFqevSyGetKuZ0%26s%3Drr6EKuhbAwPB54oE69e9lRZSk4r1PxUiIvXh6SvLapw%26e%3D&data=05%7C02%7C%7Cf55071c4f1ce420bee1008dd99761aca%7Ce95f1b23abaf45ee821db7ab251ab3bf%7C0%7C0%7C638835454709632512%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uJH6Cpdv0hAKDhd5jg8AXY6Ngyy3iDTAoIH7DxfHxWM%3D&reserved=0