Attachment B- Grounds Maintenance Performance Work.pdf

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

GROUND MAINTENANCE SERVICES

NORTHWOODS NATIONAL CEMETERY, 4520 Lakewood Road, Harshaw, WI 54529

April 2, 2025

NCA MISSION

NCA honors Veterans and their eligible family members with final resting places in national shrines and with lasting tributes that commemorate their service and sacrifice to our Nation.

NATIONAL CEMETERY BACKGROUND AND SOW STANDARDS:

National Cemeteries are National Shrines that honors our Veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our Nation. The standards of maintenance, appearance and operational procedures performed by the Contractor at this cemetery shall reflect this nation’s concern for those interred there. For this reason, in addition to the Dignity Clause, the Contractor’s strict adherence to the specifications of the Operational Standards and Measures (please review this additional attached document file) shall be required and shall be 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 of the Contractor employees of the remains buried in the grounds where the work is performed. The utmost care must be given to these remains and the headstones and flat grave markers that mark those gravesites and memorialize the service of individuals.

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

Performance Period: This is an Indefinite-Delivery, Indefinite Quantity requirement. The term of this contract shall be for a period from Date of contract award through 365 calendar days plus four (4) 1-year Options through 2030, if exercised. Contractor shall submit an invoice electronically, in arrears, at the end of each month.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

(a) All work shall be performed during normal cemetery hours of operation 7:30AM, through 4:00PM local time Monday through Friday. Work performed outside of normal work hours may be required for interments or ceremonies on Federal Holidays or weekends. All coordination shall be made through the CO not the COR.

Contractor may make a written request to the Contracting Officer (CO), in advance, to work outside of the normal work hours when needed to carry out the specifications of this contract.

(b) Federal Holidays: All work required under this contract shall be performed during normal cemetery hours of operation. Except for Memorial Day and Veterans Day, work is normally not conducted on Federal holidays.

The following is a list of all Federal holidays:

FEDERAL HOLIDAYS (Holidays observed by the Federal Government, per the US Office of Personnel Management website, Federal Holidays (opm.gov) https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/federal-holidays/#url=2024

*This holiday is designated as "Washington’s Birthday" in section 6103(a) of title 5 of the United States Code, which is the law that specifies holidays for Federal employees. Though other institutions such as state and local governments and private businesses may use other names, it is our policy to always refer to holidays by the names designated in the law.

SECTION A: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

The following list, with subsequent corresponding descriptions of services, describe the contractor requirements. The Contractor through innovation, technology, or other means, shall perform the required grounds maintenance services at frequencies agreed upon by the Contractor, and coordination as appropriate. Performance shall be based on the Government’s evaluation of results, and the frequency or methods of the Contractor's performance of the required/agreed upon descriptions of services.

A.1.1 Mow and trim ALL turfgrass areas including headstones; blow/sweep/remove grass clipping/debris and fenceline treatment: Mow and Trim ALL turfgrass areas including headstones; edge all sidewalks and curbs; blow/sweep/remove grass clipping/debris and fence line. The Contractor shall mow, which includes string trimming in conjunction with each mowing

- all turfgrass areas to present a well-manicured, neat, professional appearance always and in accordance with NCA Operational Standards and Measures Guidebook. A complete mow/trim cycle is required during the growing season and to be considered a complete mow/trim event, all turfgrass areas must be completely mowed/trimmed and removed of debris within a one-week (Monday-Friday) time period. Each burial section shall be mowed/trimmed and cleared of debris prior to moving to the next section. Mowed areas shall be uniform in appearance, free of skips, gaps, scalping, rutting, bruising, and uneven and rough cutting.

Mowing:

A) Mowing height shall generally be 3.0 Unless otherwise coordinated with the COR and/or CO as appropriate.

B) Mowing frequency shall be often enough that:

1) Excessive clippings are not generated, and

2) No more than one third of the grass height is removed per mowing.

If mowing is delayed by weather or some other reason and grass height becomes excessive, then mowing height shall be increased so no more than one third of the grass height is removed, shall then be mowed twice per week at a height not to exceed 1/3 grass height each time until the target height is achieved.

C) Clippings shall normally be left on the turf if they are well dispersed and don’t inhibit grass growth or detract from the appearance of the cemetery, but excessive quantities or accumulations of clippings shall be dispersed or removed. Windrows or clumps shall not remain after mowing but shall be promptly dispersed or removed.

Any grass clippings on headstones, flat markers, monuments, mulch beds, or impervious surfaces such as walks and roads shall be blown or swept onto adjacent turf, or collected and disposed of, before workers leave the section being mowed.

Any clippings or edgings deposited on sidewalks or at public visitor areas including the Committal Shelter areas shall be removed (by sweeping or mechanical blower) at same time mowing work is occurring.

D) Contractor is responsible for collection and disposal of all unsightly flowers, debris, and trash before and after each mowing and trimming event within the Cemetery.

Debris and Trash is any item, material, or foreign object not permanently attached to or planted within the Cemetery grounds and boundaries. Items include, but are not limited to, fallen twigs and branches that are under ten (10) inches (25.40 cm) in diameter, paper products, cigarette butts, gum, glass and metal products, plastic and any other synthetic items, loose rock and stone over three (3) inches (7.62 cm) in diameter that are not the apparent result of an interment.

E) Mowers shall be commercial grade and designed to produce a professional, high-quality cut, and they shall be properly maintained and adjusted. Rear or Mulching decks are required on all mowers to assist in keeping headstones free from debris.

F) Mulching blades shall be used and shall be kept sharp, so grass is cut cleanly, not torn or shredded. Push mowers shall be used in selected where there are numerous monuments or other obstacles.

G) Mowing direction shall be changed or reversed from one mowing cycle to the next, wherever doing so is practical. Mowers shall not be operated within four inches of monuments, tree trunks, or other vertical surfaces.

H) Mowing patterns in open areas shall be deliberate, precise (straight lines), and attractive to enhance the cemetery’s appearance. Mowing direction shall be alternated between mowing events to prevent rutting/grooving.

I) Mower ground speed (and turning) shall be slow enough to provide a complete, clean cut, without turf damage. At turning areas, such as at ends of grave rows and around trees and other objects, mower operators shall reduce ground speed and exercise care to prevent tearing or otherwise damaging turfgrass or creating turn or ring patterns in turf from the mower tires. This is especially critical when soils are wet. Any damage to turf from mower tires at these turn points shall be repaired within 1/2 day of identification by COR.

J) Floral and commemorative items on grave sites shall be removed prior to mowing and trimming, and then replaced afterward in their same locations by the Contractor.

K) Cleaning of mowing equipment shall NOT be done on Cemetery property, and only clean equipment shall be brought to the Cemetery to reduce the risk of introducing contaminant weed seeds in the cemetery turf.

L) Newly repaired turf areas (newly sodded or seeded) shall be mowed with a push mower until the turfgrass is well enough established that it shall not be damaged by riding mowers per the COR’s guidance.

M) Unsuitable mowing conditions are likely at times due to heavy rain, lightning, or other extreme conditions. The CO authority to stop work if conditions are such that work that day shall do more damage than good to the Cemetery grounds or is dangerous to workers.

N) The Contractor shall take the utmost care not to damage headstones, markers, floral or commemorative items, structures, survey monuments, and irrigation equipment while performing mowing and trimming services.

O) Contractor is responsible for removal and replacement of all lawn, shrubs, and trees due to damage by the Contractor. Contractor shall provide replacement plants and shall be of the same type and size. The Cemetery is responsible for plants damaged by the Cemetery or third parties, storms, flood or frost damage and trees beyond their normal life span.

P) The Government shall not be held responsible for any damage to the Contractor’s equipment, materials, supplies or the like which may result from vandalism, theft, etc.

while on site.

The Contractor shall trim grass and all vegetation that mowers miss, such as around headstones, by structures, posts, trees, buildings, columbarium’s, service shelters, floral stations, and other vertical surfaces. Objects and areas to be trimmed around include but are not only subject to are section markers, monuments, trees, mulch beds, planting beds, shrubs, buildings, curbs/curbing, fences, walls, poles, signs, fire hydrants, parking lot bumper blocks, boulders, utility/valve boxes and covers. Streaks or irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, scalping, or gouging of the soil is unacceptable.

a) Trimming height shall be the same as mowing height, and no shorter or higher. There shall be no scalping.

b) Trimming frequency shall run concurrently with mowing, but mowing shall be done first so trimming height can be matched to the mowed height. cemetery properties shall be mowed and trimmed consecutively before progressing through the cycle.

c) Clippings shall be mulched, dispersed, or removed if visually objectionable after trimming, and before proceeding with work in other sections or areas. Mechanical means of removal maybe required when excess clippings are abundant.

d) All fuel cans must be kept, stored, carried, or used outside of turf sections and on hardtop or concrete surfaces. All fuel storage containers and storage must meet OSHA requirements.

e) Caution shall be exercised to avoid any damage to markers, monuments, building walls, trees, other desirable plant materials, or any other assets. Any damage shall be immediately reported to COR and/or CO as appropriate.

f) Equipment - commercial grade string trimmers shall be used.

g) String Litter - Trimmer string pieces (longer than short pieces of perhaps an inch or two in length that break off with regular wear) shall not remain on the grounds. COR and/or CO as appropriate, reserves the right to have Contractor pick up and dispose of trimmer strings left on the site or sites where 3 or more strings are found.

A.1.2 Management of fence-line and unimproved areas: Perimeter fence-line and unimproved areas shall be made free of vines, tall grass, and other vegetation using mowers, flails, trimmers, pruners, tools, or herbicides approved by COR. Clippings and other vegetative debris shall be removed or mulched up and dispersed to prevent an unsightly appearance. Non-vedgitative debris and large items such as large branches shall be removed and properly disposed of.

A.1.3 Edging walks and curbs: The Contractor shall blade edge grass and all vegetation by structures, posts, trees, buildings, columbarium’s, service shelters, floral stations, and other vertical surfaces. Objects and areas to be blade edged around include but are not only subject to are section markers, monuments, trees, mulch beds, planting beds, shrubs, buildings, curbs/curbing, fences, walls, poles, signs, fire hydrants, parking lot bumper blocks, boulders, utility/valve boxes and covers. Streaks or irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, scalping, or gouging of the soil is unacceptable.

a) Blade edging height shall be the same as mowing height, and no shorter or higher.

There shall be no scalping, (defined as cutting the grass so short that the green leaf cover has been eliminated and the stems are left exposed).

b) Blade edging frequency shall run complete 16 cycles of all flat markers, some of which shall run concurrently with the government mowing, which shall be done first so edging height can be matched to the mowed height. Cemetery flat markers of each section shall be edged before progressing through the cycle to the next section. At no time can the flat marker of a section not be edged by COB if cemetery staff have mowed that section on concurrent mowing and flat marker edging instances.

c) Clippings shall be dispersed or removed if visually objectionable after edging, and before proceeding with work in other sections or areas. Mechanical means of removal maybe required when excess clippings are abundant.

d) All fuel cans must be kept, stored, carried, or used outside of turf sections and on hardtop or concrete surfaces. All fuel storage containers and storage must meet OSHA requirements.

e) Caution shall be exercised to avoid any damage to headstones, markers, monuments, building walls, trees, other desirable plant materials, or any other assets. Any damage shall be immediately reported to COR.

f) Equipment - commercial grade blade edgers shall be used.

g) Litter – Edger pieces 2” or longer shall not remain on the grounds. Edging shall provide a clear zone ½” wide by 2” to 3” deep with all vegetation removed from joints and cracks.

Damage to asphalt/concrete shall be avoided. The first edging cycle is to be completed at the start of the mowing season, and subsequently monthly thereafter. All debris shall be blown into the turf before moving on to next site.

A.1.4 Fertilizer: Provide and Apply ALL turfgrass areas (JUNE & SEP.) Contractor shall provide and apply fertilizer to all turfgrass areas at a rate determined by soil testing three times each year:

1. Late May/early June,

2. Early September,

3. Late October (or immediately following the final mowing for the season).

4. Variations of this regime can and must be approved by the COR, in consultation with the

District Agronomist, if needed, based on soil test results or extreme weather conditions.

(a) Soil tests must be conducted by the Contractor for at least 10 sections over 2 acres in size each year. Test samples shall be reviewed by an accredited organization such as the University of Minnesota. Soil tests must test for at least P, K, Organic Matter, pH, Texture, Calcium and Magnesium. The sections tested in previous years must not be tested again for at least 3 years. 7-10 samples must be taken per section in a spaced-out manner throughout the section. All results must be provided to the COR. Fertilizer variations could be made based on the results of those soil tests.

(b) Fertilizer shall be applied with a properly adjusted and calibrated spreader. Overlap of spread pattern from adjacent passes shall be adequate to ensure uniform application.

Streaks appearing in turf any time during the year because of non-uniform application are not acceptable. Fertilizer deposited on impervious surfaces (walks/pavement) shall be removed or blown onto the turf immediately following application. If weather conditions warrant, such as severe drought or extended wet conditions, applications can be delayed until conditions are suitable, with concurrence of the COR, but may not be made to frozen soil. The first seasonal application is in May. Care shall need to be taken to not interfere with Memorial Day preparations or events. Application could possibly be made prior to the week before Memorial Day, or soon after Memorial Day. Options for applying the May/early June fertilizer with pre-emergence herbicide or grub insecticide are mentioned below in those respective sections.

(c) The fertilizer shall have the following properties:

• The nitrogen (N) content shall be at least 18%.

• 50% or more of the nitrogen in the fertilizer shall be in a slow or controlled-release form (e.g., sulfur coated, polymer coated, urea-form, Isobutylidenediurea, etc.).

• Phosphate (P) percentage shall be at least one fourth of the nitrogen percentage (examples below). Phosphate (P) percentage shall be zero on established turfgrass in accordance with Minnesota law.

• Potash (K) content percentage shall be one third or more of the N percentage (e.g., 16-4-8, 21-6-7, 20-5-10, 30-8-12 would all be acceptable).

• It shall contain no iron (to prevent headstone staining).

(d) Fertilizers usually display a commercial label rate, which is a label with three numbers, separated by dashes, indicating the relative percentage content of the primary macronutrients, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), respectively. The first number ("N value") is the percentage of elemental nitrogen by weight in the fertilizer; that is, the mass fraction of nitrogen times 100. The second number ("P value") is the percentage by weight of phosphorus pentoxide P2O5. The third number ("K value") is the equivalent content of potassium oxide K2O. For example, a 11-19-11 fertilizer would contain 11% by weight of nitrogen, 19% by weight of P2O5, 11% by weight of K2O, and 59% of some inert ingredient. The Contractor shall provide sufficient evidence that the maximum commercial label rate for all established turf has been achieved (Delivery and receivables must be verified by the COR).

(e) All equipment being used for fertilizer application must be calibrated once per year with testing results submitted to the COR. Calibration may be required at any time if the COR deems it necessary.

(f) Any fertilizer that is left on roadways and sidewalks from application shall be removed and cleaned up by Contractor before moving on to the next section.

(g) Damage caused by fertilizer spills/burns shall be corrected at Contractors’ expense. This shall be strictly enforced. If it is determined that fertilizer burn had occurred, the Contractor that applied the fertilizer, is responsible even if the contract has expired.

(h) Any damage to turf, trees and other plants caused by improper application or faulty equipment shall be repaired at the Contractors expense.

(i) No application of fertilizer shall be allowed the week leading up to Memorial Day.

(j) The COR and/or CO as appropriate reserves the right to halt application operations due to unfavorable weather conditions (excessive wind, rain, frost).

(k) OSHA, USDA, and Wisconsin Department of Agriculture standards must be followed when handling, transporting, applying, and storing herbicides. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) must be provided to the COR and/or CO as appropriate prior to application.

(l) Transporting fertilizers in improper or unsafe vehicles on cemetery grounds is strictly prohibited.

(m) Dumping of any chemical, herbicide or fertilizer on cemetery grounds is strictly prohibited. This includes but is not limited to excess product.

A.1.5 Pre-emergence Herbicide: Provide and Apply on All turfgrass areas -Appropriate to the USDA Hardiness Zone: Contractor shall provide and apply Pre-emergence herbicide to control weeds to all existing established turfgrass. Pre-emergence herbicide shall be uniformly applied to all turfgrass areas twice per year for annual grassy weed control. Applications shall be in late March or early April when soil temperature approaches that necessary for crabgrass germination, and again approximately seven weeks later. Either dithiopyr (e.g., Dimension) or Prodiamine (e.g., Barricade) shall be used at the maximum commercial label rate allowed for the site.

a) The spring fertilizer application may be combined with the pre-emergence herbicide applications if no more than one half of the spring fertilizer is applied at the early (March/April) time, and then the remainder applied at the later time.

b) Any re-treatment needed as a result of the Contractor’s failure to follow manufacturer’s instructions shall be done at the Contractor’s expense. Repeat, follow-up, and/or spot spray herbicide applications, as needed.

c) Contractor shall provide sufficient evidence that the maximum commercial label rate for all established turf has been achieved (Delivery and receivable must be verified by the

COR).

d) Headstones must be kept in clean and presentable condition within NCA Standards.

Failure by the Contractor to meet standards, shall be corrected by the Contractor before

COB.

Contractor shall provide and apply herbicide to control Broadleaf weeds by spraying all established turfgrass areas with the proper type and rate of herbicides that shall control weeds present (typically clover, dandelion, plantain, oxalis, chickweed, henbit, etc.). The spray mixture or herbicide product used shall contain three or more ingredients effective in controlling broadleaf weeds.

a) Broad spraying of all turfgrass areas shall be done twice each year: in early-mid May to clean up weeds prior to Memorial Day, and in October to have maximum effect on perennial weeds and reduce winter-annual weed establishment. Weather and field conditions at the time of application must be favorable for herbicide efficacy, as well as for minimal risk of damage such as herbicide injury to off-target plants, or of equipment making tire ruts. Preparation of the spray mixture may be done on designated area by the COR and water is available at the cemetery for mixing.

b) Any re-treatment needed as a result of the Contractor’s failure to follow manufacturer’s instructions shall be done at the Contractor’s expense. Repeat, follow-up, and/or spot spray herbicide applications, as needed.

c) Contractor shall provide sufficient evidence that the maximum commercial label rate for all established turf has been achieved (Delivery and receivable must be verified by the

COR).

d) Headstones must be kept in clean and presentable condition within NCA Standards.

Failure by the Contractor to meet standards, shall be corrected by the contractor before

COB.

A.1.6 Post-emergence Herbicide: Provide and Apply on All turfgrass areas -Appropriate to the USDA Hardiness Zone Variations of an approved regime must be approved by the COR and/or CO as appropriate, in consultation with the District Agronomist (as applicable), and must be in compliance with all State of WI pesticide treatment regulations.

a) Contractor shall provide sufficient evidence that maximum rate for Preventive and/or Curative application of all established turf has been achieved (Delivery and receivable must be verified by the COR and/or CO as appropriate).

b) Any re-treatment needed as a result of the Contractor’s failure to follow manufacturer’s instructions shall be done at the Contractor’s expense. Spot treat per section Curative insecticide, as needed.

-Note: When proper Preventive manufacturer recommendations are followed, and “good industry practice” applications are performed, there should never be a need for Curative applications

A.1.7 Provide and Apply Yellow Nutsedge Herbicide to Turfgrass: Contractor shall provide and apply herbicide to control Yellow Nutsedge and other susceptible weeds in all established turfgrass. Herbicide must be COR and/or CO as appropriate, approved.

a) Yellow Nutsedge and other susceptible weeds shall be controlled by spraying a mix of the following herbicide active ingredients in mid-June:

Sulfentrazone at least 0.187 lbs. per acre Quinclorac at least 0.562 lbs. per acre (For example, the commercial product “Solitaire WG” could be applied at 1.0 lbs. of product per acre to achieve the specified rates)

b) Contractor shall provide sufficient evidence that the maximum commercial label rate for all established turf has been achieved (Delivery and receivable must be verified by the

COR).

c) Any re-treatment needed as a result of the Contractor’s failure to follow manufacturer’s instructions shall be done at the Contractor’s expense. Repeat, follow-up, and/or spot spray herbicide applications, as needed.

d) Headstones must be kept in clean and presentable condition within NCA Standards.

Failure by the Contractor to meet standards, shall be corrected by the Contractor before

COB.

A.1.8 Trash and Debris Removal from any/all cemetery grounds: The Contractor shall perform a daily inspection. During this inspection the appearance of the Cemetery shall be observed, and any deficiencies noted within the scope of the contract shall be corrected as soon as practicable. Items that need correcting outside the scope of the contract shall be reported to the Contracting Officer or his representative.

a The contractor shall:

a. Check trash containers and empty as necessary.

b. Check cone bins and replenish as necessary.

c. Keep the gravesite locator directory container, and committal service area, roads, and sidwalks free of debris.

d. Submit daily inspection reports/checklists and work accomplished to the COR weekly. The inspection forms/checklists shall be provided to the Contractor (see “Work Summary and Progress Report”, Attachment F)

A.1.9 Pressure Wash Committal Shelter, Columbaria, hardscapes, and bathroom and pump house Building: Pressure Wash Committal Shelter, Hardscapes, Bathroom, and Pump House Building: Prior to Memorial Day and at other times as coordinated with the COR and/or CO as appropriate, the Contractor shall pressure wash the columbarium, committal shelter, sidewalks, curbs, bathroom, pump house, and fencing as necessary, bathroom, and pump house building at cemetery property. The natural surfaces shall be retained. Contractor is to remove objectionable material and discoloration, such as environmental deposits, accumulations of bird droppings or dirt/mud, tire and hose markings, grass stains, residue from trees, mold, mildew, moss, algae, lichen, fungus, and so forth. Spray pressure shall not exceed 500 psi while cleaning niche covers. Excessive soil, staining and/or discoloration may be removed with plain water and a stiff brush (no wire brushes, bleach, solvents, or abrasive cleaners/blasting shall be permitted), followed by rinsing with clear water.

Protect plant materials from damage.

A.1.10 Dethatch/Core Aeration of all turfgrass areas: Before Overseeding operations commence, once a year, in late summer to early fall (Sept-Oct) the Contractor shall preform complete dethatching operation of all turf areas.

(a) The Contractor must leave no less than ½” of thatch on the ground while dethatching turfgrass.

(b) Under COR discretion, dethatching turfgrass must not be performed while turf conditions are stressed or weak. This includes excessive heat, drought or when operations shall do more harm than good to Cemetery grounds.

(c) Newly sodded or seeded areas must not be detached.

Once a year during the fall (Mid-August through Mid-September) the Contractor shall perform a broad core aeration of all turf areas. The COR may also designate, in late April through May, core aeration in heavily compacted areas prior to pre-emergence application.

a) Aeration shall remove at least nine 3-inch plugs per square foot.

b) Care shall be taken to ensure that no damage is done to turf grass, irrigation heads, control points, headstones, or cemetery property. This includes cemetery waypoint markers that are at the surface of the turf. All damage shall be immediately reported to COR and repair operations shall be initiated before COB.

c) Any irrigation heads and irrigation lines damaged by aeration operations shall be repaired or replaced at the Contractor’s expense. If needed, the Contractor can flag irrigation heads, valve boxes or other areas of concern for aeration operations to reduce the possibility of damage. Flags must then be removed following the completion of aeration operations.

d) Some areas may not require aeration every year. Those areas not requiring aeration shall be designated by the COR.

A.1.11 Overseed all turfgrass areas: Contractor shall provide seed and apply overseeding operations to all turfgrass. Overseeding shall commence immediately after dethatching operations (Sept-Oct).

a) Each section must be mowed to 3 inches before overseeding operation commences.

Commercial equipment shall be utilized with blades capable to set at ¼ inch deep enough to penetrate the soil, and no greater than ½ inch deep.

b) Contractor shall coordinate with the COR and/or CO as appropriate and apply 60% Tall Fescue (at least 3 different variants), 30% Fine fescue (at least 3 different variants), 5% Kentucky Blue Grass, 5%Rye. (Or other seed variants and compositions at COR and/or CO as appropriate, discretion), at a rate of 4 pounds per 1,000 sq. feet and 8 pounds per 1,000 sq feet for bare areas.

c) Contractor shall provide sufficient evidence that this rate has been achieved for all established turfgrass (Delivery and receivables must be verified by the COR and/or CO as appropriate).

Care shall be taken to ensure that seed lost to areas such as roadways and any other areas where turf is not intended shall be kept to a minimum. Any seed on hard surfaces shall be blown back into the turf before moving on to the next site.

A.1.12 Sunken Grave Repair: An unsightly grave is defined as any gravesite that has subsided two (2) inches or more from the existing adjacent grade or turfgrass has an unsightly appearance. Standard graves excavated and backfilled are approximately three and one-half feet wide and approximately eight feet long. Cremains graves excavated and backfilled are approximately three by three feet. The Contractor or COR and/or CO as appropriate shall identify unsightly graves requiring repair and Contractor shall commence gravesite repairs upon COR and/or CO as appropriate discretion.

(a) Repair of unsightly graves shall be accomplished within 15 days of identification. Work consists of removal of existing turf, refilling sunken graves with the appropriate backfill plus black dirt materials to match grade, and establishment of new turf cover to existing adjacent graves. Backfill portion of gravesites needing repair shall be tamped to standards.

(b) Sod shall ONLY be comprised of commercial Tall Fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass cultivars. Sod shall be healthy, high quality, and free of any contaminant plants.

Variations of sod compositions must be coordinated the COR in conjunction with the Contracting Officer. The COR and/or CO as appropriate, reserves the right to change sod composition percentages as he/she sees fit. Failure to comply with the requested sod composition from the COR and/or CO as appropriate, shall be the basis for rejection on delivery. The Contractor shall be required to provide proof of sod composition to the COR and/or CO as appropriate, at the time of delivery.

Gravesites shall be inspected no less than monthly by Contractor for holes, washouts, sunken graves, and unsightliness

A.1.13 Turfgrass Renovation, Seed, Sod, establishment for spotty/bare areas: For areas where turfgrass has been damaged or died, the Contractor shall restore that area to match the surrounding grade and type and quality of turfgrass, which shall be free of weeds or non-matching grass. Quality topsoil shall be used for any fill that is needed, and the soil shall be appropriately compacted to prevent additional settling. Starter fertilizer shall be used to help re-establish the grass. New sod shall be used in reestablishing the turfgrass, but the COR shall provide guidance if seed should be used instead, or if existing sod may be cut and reused.

Contractor shall ensure adequate irrigation is provided to the area to maintain the new turfgrass in good health to match the surrounding turfgrass through the growing season. The establishment period for turf shall begin immediately after installation, with the approval of the COR. Maintenance shall be done by the Contractor with proper mowing, fertilization, pest control, and irrigation as needed until final acceptance is made by the Government. In addition, sod installed during the spring and summer shall be maintained after the 60-day period to at least the same quality (greenness) of established, nearby turf with proper fertilization, pest control, and irrigation. If the sod, all, or part, dies during the growing season (unless surrounding turf also dies due to weather extremes) the contractor is responsible to replace the dead sod and maintain all replacement sod. Any sod laid after September 1 that is not accepted by the COR as established turf by the following May 1 shall be repaired or replaced by the Contractor

A.1.14 Planting Beds and Tree Rings - Maintain edging, mulch and weed-free all planting beds and tree rings: Shredded hardwood, natural color mulch shall be applied as needed but not less than all planting beds and rings one time each year (preferably within a two week period prior to Memorial Day) to freshen the appearance of beds and maintain mulch depth at approximately 3 inches, with depth in tree rings diminishing up to the tree so as to not be piled against the base (trunks) of trees (i.e., mulch should lightly cover the soil near the trunk, but not be in contact with it). Mulch must match color and texture of existing mulch. Break up any hardened existing mulch to allow air and water movement through mulch layer. If mulch builds up to greater than 4-inch depth remove enough old mulch to bring the depth to about 3 inches after adding new. Edge beds in conjunction with mowing to maintain clean/crisp bed edges and remove encroachment of turfgrass and weeds. The contractor is responsible for maintaining all mulch and planting beds and tree rings supplied with mulch and weed free as long is there is no snow cover throughout the year. Contractor shall maintain border between prairie grass and turfgrass to prevent prairie grass from encroaching into turfgrass and vice versa. Weeds shall be controlled by spraying planting beds and tree rings with the proper type and rate of herbicides that shall control the weeds present (typically clover, dandelion, plantain, oxalis, chickweed, henbit, etc.). The spray mixture or herbicide product used shall contain three or more ingredients effective in controlling broadleaf weeds. Spraying of planting beds and tree rings shall be done once per month for the duration of each year to have maximum effect on perennial weeds and reduce winter-annual weed establishment. Weather and field conditions at the time of application must be favorable for herbicide efficacy, as well as for minimal risk of damage such as herbicide injury to off-target plants. Preparation of the spray mixture may be done on site but water availability at the cemetery is unknown at the time of the writing of this contract. Any re-treatment needed because of the Contractor’s failure to follow manufacturer’s instructions shall be done at the Contractor’s expense.

A.1.15 Shrub/Tree Maintenance/Pruning/Shaping within 15 feet of the ground: The contractor shall: Shrub Tree Maintenance/Pruning/Shaping: Work consists of tree/shrub limb removal and/or pruning and perimeter vegetation management. Application and maintenance/repair schedules shall be coordinated with the COR and/or CO as appropriate.

The contractor shall:

(a) Limb, hedge and/or prune:

(b) Remove dead or dying branches injured by disease, insect infestation, animals, storms or mechanical damage. Remove any branches that have weak crotches, are crossing or rubbing one another, or are growing back towards the center of the tree.

(c) Remove tree limbs that interfere with sunlight and mowing/trimming equipment.

Gradually remove lower branches on younger deciduous trees to raise their crown.

Evergreen trees, however, generally look best with their lowest branches allowed to drape to ground level. If it is necessary to remove lower evergreen branches for safety or other practical reasons, remove no more than the lowest 25% of branches.

(d) Estimated three (3) times each year, based on industry standards for each species of vegetation and at the discretion of the COR and/or CO as appropriate. Work shall be completed in April, July and October or as coordinated with the COR and/or CO as appropriate. All work shall be scheduled with COR and/or CO as appropriate, prior to commencing.

Maintain shrubs and trees in a healthy, attractive condition with hand pruning, shearing, and branch removal as necessary. Dead, diseased, crossing, and other problem branches shall be removed. Natural shape and appropriate size of the species shall be maintained. Trees shall be trimmed in such a way as to keep the roadways free of overhanging branches which may impede traffic/cause damage to vehicles that may pass under the overhanging branches;

however, the trees shall not be cut back in such a way as to make them look unsightly or unnatural in their shape and appearanceis . Any issues/concerns on branch removal should be addressed through the COR for coordination and approval of trimming plan. Non-flowering shrubs shall be evaluated in early spring prior to growth and trimmed as needed maintain healthy, uniform growth and appearance. Flowering shrubs shall be maintained as needed during the growing season to promote flowering, and maintain uniform growth, and appearance.

Flowering shrubs shall be trimmed/pruned as needed following flowering to maintain healthy, uniform growth, and appearance. Shrub areas shall be kept free of shrub trimmings or any other debris. Shrubs shall be properly fertilized two (2) times per year with proper slow-release type shrub fertilizer; one (1) application in Spring, and one (1) application in Fall.

A.1.16 Provide Grub Insecticide to Turfgrass in April and June: The Contractor shall provide and apply a preventative application of granular Acelepryn (Chlorantraniliprole) grub insecticide shall be uniformly applied to all turfgrass areas between (April, May, or June at COR and/or CO as appropriate, discretion). In addition, when COR and/or CO as appropriate or Contractor identifies a grub infestation, within 2 workdays of identification, Contractor shall provide and apply an additional curative liquid Dylox (Trichlorfon) treatment that shall be applied at affected sites in August/September. The maximum commercial label rate for the site shall be used from one of the herbicide active ingredients:

- Preventive: Chlorantraniliprole 0.067% (e.g., Acelepryn), if applied April, May, or June. (If a proper formulation is available this could potentially be applied with the first seasonal fertilizer at COR and/or CO as appropriate discretion).

- Curative: Trichlorfon 37.3% (e.g., Dylox) (Must be applied before forecasted rain in non-irrigated sections)

a) If a granular product is used, any deposited on impervious surfaces (walks/pavement) shall be removed or blown onto the turf immediately following application.

b) Variations of this regime must be approved by the COR and/or CO as appropriate, in consultation with the District Agronomist (as applicable).

c) Contractor shall provide sufficient evidence that maximum rate for Preventive and/or Curative application of all established turf has been achieved (Delivery and receivable must be verified by the COR and/or CO as appropriate).

d) Any re-treatment needed as a result of the Contractor’s failure to follow manufacturer’s instructions shall be done at the Contractor’s expense. Spot treat per section Curative insecticide, as needed.

-Note: When proper Preventive manufacturer recommendations are followed, and “good industry practice” applications are performed, there should never be a need for Curative applications.

A.1.17 Mole, Gopher, and Rodent Control: Moles and rodents shall be controlled as needed using accepted industry practices (poison baits and/or traps) and standards and in conformance with state pest control licensing requirements. Baits used for moles shall be the product Talpirid or equal. The Contractor shall ensure that soil shall be tamped into holes and turf replaced or reseeded to always insure acceptable appearance.

A.1.18 Irrigation System – Full operation and maintenance, including repairs tto maintain operation and adjustments as necessary: The Contractor shall coordinate with the COR prior to the Contractor charging up the irrigation system. The Contractor shall commence charging of systems (weather permitting) no earlier than April 1, with all irrigation lines charged by April 30.

The Contractor shall coordinate with the COR prior to the Contractor winterizing the irrigation system. The Contractor shall commence winterizing systems (weather permitting) no later than October 31, with all irrigation lines and pump station winterized according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

This work includes any State or local testing such as backflow prevention devices. The contractor shall be responsible for ensuring the backflow testing results are properly reported to requesting agencies within the requested time. This is generally an annual inspection.

The Contractor shall exercise all manual control and shut-off valves at least twice per year (Spring and Fall) according to American Water Works Association (AWWA) guidelines.

Exercising the valve is operating the valve at least on full cycle until the valve operates freely with little resistance; this may take several full cycles and should be done slowly to avoid damage to the water hammer.

The Cemetery is an improved area requiring irrigation and shall receive enough water as necessary to present turf with a uniform green color without browning, no barren areas (where there is supposed to be turf) resulting from lack of water, and healthy foliage for trees, bushes, and plants. The Contractor is responsible for maintaining the irrigation system in full working order and providing adequate coverage to maintain turf with a uniform green color without browning or barren areas, and adequate flow for trees, bushes, and plants.

The Contractor shall inspect irrigation system for proper operation each operational day throughout the irrigation season (typically April 1 through October 31 annually).

The Government does not guarantee 100 percent coverage by irrigation systems. The Contractor shall ensure all improved areas receive water and shall further prevent excessive accumulation of water, except where unpreventable due to unforeseen excessive natural precipitation. In the event an area requires irrigation outside of the contracted watering times and scheduled days, the Government retains the right to operate all irrigation systems, to include the timers or main valves. The Contractor shall adjust watering times such that all systems have adequate pressure to function properly and do not reduce pressure in water mains such to cause operational problems. The irrigation schedule set at the main controller shall be adjusted by the contractor as necessary and reported to the COR.

The Contractor shall seek to improve the efficiency of the irrigation system. Irrigation heads shall be adjusted whenever their coverage or volume is inadequate, too plentiful, or misdirected.

The Contractor shall abide by any local, state, or other water agency regulations or controls in force at the time of this contract.

Due to certain functions, events and practices, special request for timers and sprinkler systems adjustments may be required to meet these activities.

The Contractor shall provide all labor supervision, equipment, parts, replacement parts, materials, etc. to maintain sprinkler heads, bubblers, sprayers, and riser connections as necessary to eliminate obstructions, leaks, and other defects which would prevent proper operation of the irrigation system, including unexpected breaks, leaks, and failures at no additional cost to the Government. Sprinkler heads, bubblers and sprayers shall be maintained clear of dirt and other debris for approximately 1 inch around their outside circumference.

Contractor shall notify the COR when a head cannot be repaired or maintained to functional condition and a replacement head is necessary. Replacement sprinkler heads, bubblers, and sprayers shall be of the same make, manufacturer, model, flow rate, and spray pattern as existing, unless deemed unpracticable by the CO. The Contractor shall plan for replacing approximately 10% of the sprinkler heads annually.

The Contractor shall provide all labor supervision, equipment, parts, replacement parts, materials, etc. to maintain the irrigation pump station, including unexpected breaks, leaks, and failures, at no additional cost to the Government. The Contractor shall inspect the pump station for proper operation at least once per week during irrigation operation, checking all gaskets under pressure and checking the flow meter to ensure proper flow rate. The Contractor shall perform all weekly, monthly, quarterly, and seasonal maintenance according to the manufacturer’s preventative maintenance schedule.

The Contractor shall provide all required labor, supervision, equipment, parts, replacement parts, materials, etc. to maintain the installed sprinkler system, to include, but not limited to, valve systems, underground piping, sprinkler heads, bubblers, sprayers, and riser connections including unexpected breaks, leaks, and failures. The Contractor shall promptly report damage to or malfunction of any sprinkler system to the COR. The Contractor shall always operate and maintain the irrigation systems in good working order and repairable condition.

Hoses, portable sprinklers, portable pipe, and similar irrigation equipment shall be removed from areas at the end of each workday or when not actually in use and removed from the premises, unless a designated storage area is identified. All valves, covers, and valve box covers shall be kept always closed except when in actual use. Any open excavations must be covered and marked with warning signs and roped/chained off to prevent anyone from falling into the opening when contractor or staff is not present.

The Contractor shall repair the sprinkler system by locating and repairing defective and broken electric and manual valves, valve control boxes, irrigation valve pit covers, controller, controller boxes, electrical wiring (between timer and valves), controller pedestals, sprinkler heads, bubblers, sprayers, risers, water lines, automatic and manual drains, backflow preventers, air vacuum breakers, all types of fittings (tees, unions, ells, nipples, clamps, etc.), and pipes.

Sprinkler heads and valve control boxes shall be flush with the ground and level. The Contractor shall clean out sprinkler heads, bubblers, sprayers, and nozzles when plugged with debris. The Contractor shall regularly clean out or replace sprinkler head/sprayer filters. The Contractor shall regularly clean accumulated sediment from the valve boxes. When repair is not possible the Contractor shall notify the COR and additional costs for replacement parts shall be addressed on a case-by-case basis through the change’s clause of this contract.

The Contractor shall respond (via phone/email) within thirty (30) minutes during business hours and within two (2) hours during non-duty hours, to coordinate physical staff response after notification, for repairing leaks, breaks, faulty controllers, valves not completely shut off or controllers identified as being stuck in the "on" position. When it is determined that there is a leak, break or stuck "on" situation, the Contractor shall immediately isolate the irrigation line using the nearest isolation gate valve at no additional cost to the Government. The Contractor may be required to flush out the systems with either water pressure, air pressure, or both to remove accumulation of debris from the water lines because of water line breaks.

The government reserves the right to contract out or repair using government resources emergency repairs where contractor is deemed to be not responsive.

A.1.19 Repairs to the main line: The Contractor shall notify the COR of any repairs needed to the main line. Prior to beginning the repair, the contractor shall provide, in wrighting, an estimate of the cost of repairs including labor and parts. The CO/COR shall notify the contractor when to procede with the repair.

A.1.20 Irrigation Startup in Spring: The Contractor shall coordinate with the COR prior to the Contractor blowout of the irrigation system. The Contractor shall commence clearing system line from debris, and settlements that hinder proper and safe functionality (weather permitting), with all irrigation lines and pump station cleared according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

a) This work includes any State or local testing such as backflow prevention devices. The contractor shall be responsible for ensuring the backflow testing results are properly reported to requesting agencies within the requested time. This is generally an annual inspection.

b) The Contractor shall exercise all manual control and shut-off valves at least twice per year according to American Water Works Association (AWWA) guidelines. Exercising the valve is operating the valve at least on full cycle until the valve operates freely with little resistance; this may take several full cycles and should be done slowly to avoid damage due to water hammer.

A.1.21 Irrigation Winterization…