Performance Work Statement Marion National Cemetery.docx

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

GROUND MAINTENANCE SERVICES

MARION NATIONAL CEMETERY, Bldg, 73, 1700 EAST 38TH STREET, MARION, IN 46953

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.

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 and 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) New Year's Day 1st day of January Martin Luther King's Birthday President's Day Third Monday in January Presidents’ Day Third Monday in February Memorial Day Last Monday in May Juneteenth Day 19th day of June Independence Day 4th day in July Labor Day First Monday in September Columbus Day Second Monday in October Veterans Day 11th day in November Thanksgiving Day Fourth Thursday in November Christmas Day 25th day of December

(a) Place(s) of Performance:

MARION NATIONAL CEMETERY, Bldg, 73, 1700 EAST 38TH STREET, MARION, IN 46953

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.1.01 Mow All Turfgrass Areas (53 Acres):

The Contractor shall mow all turfgrass areas to present a well-manicured, neat, professional appearance always, in the same manner as a high-quality residential lawn under contract from a professional lawn maintenance service and in accordance with NCA Operational Standards and Measures Guidebook. A complete mow cycle is usually required each week during the growing season and to be considered a complete mow event, all turfgrass areas must be completely mowed and removed of debris within a one-week (Monday-Friday) time-period. Each burial section shall be mowed 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.

a) Mowing height shall be at 3 1/2 inches, or as specified by the COR.

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.

i. 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, and it shall then be mowed twice per week at a slightly lower height each time until the target height is again 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 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 locations designated by the COR 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.

j) Floral and commemorative items on grave sites shall be removed prior to mowing 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.

m) Unsuitable mowing conditions are likely at times due to heavy rain, lightning, or other extreme conditions. The COR, Cemetery Foreman, or Cemetery Director has 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. Any damage shall be reported to the COR and/or CO as appropriate immediately.

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.

A.1.02 Headstone Trimming:

The Contractor shall string trim turf and vegetation around all upright headstones. Streaks or irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, 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 (defined as cutting the grass so short that the green leaf cover has been eliminated and the stems are left exposed often leaving a brown and yellowish appearance).

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 Headstone Markers of each section shall be trimmed before progressing through the cycle to the next section. At no time can the headstones of a section not be trimmed by COB if the section has been mowed.

c) Clippings shall be dispersed or removed if visually objectionable after trimming, and before proceeding with work in other sections or areas. Mechanical means of removal may be 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 areas 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) The Contractor shall be responsible for removal of flower cones, flowers, flags, and other items off the ground damaged by trimming operations. No loose or damaged items shall be left in the section before the Contractor moves on to another section. This includes flowers, plastic flower cones, trash, and temporary headstone markers. All temporary headstone markers that are displaced from trimming operations shall be replaced at the proper gravesite. Damaged flags are never to be thrown in the trash, instead shall be removed from the sections to the designated area specified by the COR.

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

h) 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 reserves the right to have Contractor pick up and dispose of trimmer strings left on the site or sites where strings are found.

A.1.03 String Trim Other Areas (Approx 4000 Linear Feet):

The Contractor shall trim grass and all vegetation that mowers miss, such as around 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 limited to 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 (defined as cutting the grass so short that the green leaf cover has been eliminated and the stems are left exposed).

(b) Trimming frequency shall run concurrently with mowing, but mowing shall be done first so trimming height can be matched to the mowed height.

(c) Clippings shall be dispersed or removed if visually objectionable after trimming, and before proceeding with work in other sections or areas. Mechanical means of removal may be 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 areas 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 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 reserves the right to have Contractor pick up and dispose of trimmer strings left on the site or sites where strings are found.

A.1.04 Blade Edge All Flat Markers:

The Contractor shall blade edge turf and vegetation around flat markers. Streaks or irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, or gouging of the soil is unacceptable.

a) Blade edging frequency shall run complete up to 18 cycles of all flat markers, some of which shall run concurrently with the government mowing. Cemetery flat markers of each section will be edged before progressing through the cycle to the next section. At no time can the flat markers of a section not be edged by COB if the section was mowed.

b) 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 may be required when excess clippings are abundant.

c) 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.

d) 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.

e) Equipment – commercial grade blade edgers and shall be used.

f) Metal blades shall NOT be used to edge around flat markers. The Contractor shall exercise caution not to chip flat markers with blades. Most flat markers are grouped together in the same burial sections, but a few (which also require edging) are by trees in sections with upright headstones.

A.1.05 Blade Edge All Curbing and Sidewalks (6,349 Linear Feet):

The Contractor shall blade edge grass and all vegetation around all roads, curbs, and walkways. Streaks or irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, scalping, or gouging of the soil is unacceptable.

a) Blade edging frequency shall run complete up to 9 cycles, some of which shall run concurrently with the government mowing. Cemetery hard surfaces of each section will be edged before progressing through the cycle to the next section. At no time can hard surfaces of a section not be edged by COB if the section was mowed during its cycle.

b) 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 may be required when excess clippings are abundant.

c) 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.

d) 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.

e) Equipment – commercial grade blade edgers and shall be used.

f) The Contractor shall blade edge all streets, curbs, walkways, tree wells, permanent building/structure lines, flagpoles, monuments, columbaria, and planting beds. 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.1.06 Core Aerate (53 Acres):

Once a year during the fall (Mid-September through Mid-October) and Spring (Early-April through Mid-May) the Contractor shall perform a broad core aeration of all turf areas at CORs discretion.

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. All damage shall be immediately reported to COR and/or CO as appropriate, and repair operations shall be initiated before COB.

A.1.07 Provide and Apply Overseed to Turfgrass (53 Acres):

Contractor shall provide seed and apply overseeding operations to all turfgrass. Overseeding shall commence immediately after core aeration operations at COR discretions typically (Sept-Oct).

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

b) Contractor shall use 30% Perennial Ryegrass, 40% Kentucky Blue Grass / 30% Red Fescue / (Or other seed variants and compositions approved by the COR), at a rate of 4 pounds per 1,000 sq. feet and 8 pounds per 1,000 sq feet for bare areas. All seed must be approved by COR or Cemetery director as the cemetery has both blue grass and fescue dominate sections.

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).

d) 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.1.08 Provide and Apply Pre-emergence Herbicide to Turfgrass:

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 early April when soil temperature approaches that necessary for crabgrass germination, and again approximately seven weeks later. Dates may vary based on weather condition and variations will be communicated with COR. Either dithiopyr (e.g., Dimension) or Prodiamine (e.g., Barricade) shall be used at the maximum commercial label rate allowed for the site.

a) If the product is properly formulated, 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.

A.1.09 Provide and Apply Post-Emergence Broadleaf Herbicide to Turfgrass:

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 mid-Fall 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.

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.1.10 Fertilize (53 Acres): Fertilizer shall be applied to all turfgrass areas at a rate of one pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet three times each year. The COR will request fertilizer usually:

- Late May/early June,

- Early September, and

- Late October/early November (about the time of the season’s final mowing).

a) 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 but may not be made to frozen soil. The first seasonal application is near Memorial Day. 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.

b) 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, isobutylidene diurea, etc.).

· Phosphate (P) percentage shall be at least one fourth of the nitrogen percentage (examples below).

· 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).

c) Variations of this regime may be approved by the CO, in consultation with the COR, if needed, based on soil test results or extreme weather conditions.

A.1.11 Yellow Nutsedge Herbicide (53 Acres):

Contractor shall provide and apply herbicide to control Yellow Nutsedge and other susceptible weeds in all established turfgrass.

a) Yellow Nutsedge and other susceptible weeds shall be controlled by spraying a mix of the following herbicide active ingredients usually in June (for example, the commercial product “Solitaire WG” could be applied at 1.0 lbs of product per acre to achieve the specified rates below):

· Sulfentrazone at least 0.187 lbs. per acre.

· Quinclorac at least 0.562 lbs. per acre

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.1.12 Grub Insecticide (53 Acres):

Contractor shall provide and apply a preventative application of granular Acelepryn (Chlorantraniliprole) grub insecticide and shall be uniformly applied to all turfgrass areas between (June at COR and/or CO as appropriate, discretion). 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 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.

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) 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).

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.1.13 Leaf Removal and Pick-up:

In fall the cemetery becomes covered in leaves to the point where they will inhibit turf from growing.

a) All leaves will be removed from cemetery grounds, planting beds, monuments etc. and disposed of by the contractor.

b) Leaf pickup events will occur at COR discretion to be conducted as a cycle throughout the entire cemetery would be considered 1 cycle.

c) When mowing during this time special care will be taken to ensure that leaf clippings do not build up between headstones.

A.1.14 Irrigation Start-Up / Backflow testing in the Spring:

The Contractor shall coordinate with the COR prior to the Contractor blowout of the irrigation system. The Contractor shall commence clearing system lines 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.1.15 Irrigation system – Operation and Maintenance a.) The Cemetery is an improved area requiring irrigation and shall receive sufficient amounts of 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 will be responsible for the proper usage and maintenance of the Cemetery irrigation system.

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

c.) The Government does not guarantee 100 percent coverage by irrigation systems. The Contractor shall ensure all improved areas receive water and shall prevent runoff into the streets or drainage ditches, or accumulation of water in low areas. 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 as causing operational problems.

d.) 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.

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

f.) 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, 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.

g.) The Contractor shall plan for replacing approximately 10% of the sprinkler heads annually.

h.) The Contractor shall provide all labor supervision, equipment, parts, replacement parts, materials, etc. to maintain the irrigation pump station, 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.

i.) 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. Any damage to such systems caused by the Contractor shall be repaired or replaced by the Contractor at no expense to the Government. The Contractor shall promptly report damage to or malfunction of any sprinkler system to the COR.

j.) The Contractor shall always operate and maintain the irrigation systems in good working order and repairable condition. Hoses, portable sprinklers, portable pipes, and similar irrigation equipment shall be removed from areas at the end of each workday or when not actually in use. All valves, covers, and valve box covers shall be kept always closed except when in actual use.

k.) 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.

l.) The Contractor shall regularly clean out or replace sprinkler head/sprayer filters.

m.) 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.

n.) The Contractor shall respond within thirty (30) minutes during business hours and within two (2) hours during non-duty hours, 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 valves at no additional cost to the Government. Additional costs for line or valve replacements shall be addressed on a case-by-case basis through the changes clause of this contract.

o.) 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. Faulty water main supply valves are the Government’s responsibility.

A.1.16 Irrigation Winterization in Late Fall:

The Contractor shall coordinate with the COR prior to the Contractor winterizing the irrigation system. The Contractor shall commence winterizing systems (weather permitting) normally completed by the end of October, with all irrigation lines and pump station winterized 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.1.17 Floral Pickup:

Work consists of collecting and removing all dead or unsightly flowers within the cemetery sections and columbarium walls. This includes any items that do not comply with the Marion National Cemetery Floral Policy, such as artificial flowers (specific times of the year), balloons, pinwheels, glass items, and potted plants. Work may also include wreath and wreath blanket pickup after the holiday season, or artificial pick up prior to the start of mowing operations. This work is to be coordinated via the COR and Cemetery Director/or CO as appropriate.

a) Contractor shall also pickup and return any of the cemetery’s unused floral cones to the labeled floral vase containers outside the sections all floral vase containers should be cleaned and free of dirt and debris.

b) Contractor shall pickup and dispose of any trash found during the floral pickup.

c) Any dead flowers or trash removed from the gravesites may be disposed of in the cemetery’s main dumpster.

d) Artificial flowers and other commemorative or religious items that are placed on gravesites in violation of the Floral Policy will be collected and placed in a cemetery identified holding area for 30 days to allow visitors time to retrieve their items.

A.1.18 Planting beds and tree rings (Mulch Rings) – Mulch and edge Maintenance:

In the Spring prior to Memorial Day shredded hardwood mulch contractor shall apply mulch 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 as needed to maintain clean/crisp bed edges and remove encroachment of turfgrass and weeds. There are approximately 25 planting beds estimated to be about 5800 square feet of mulch in the Cemetery, plus approximately 85 trees in turfgrass areas in the Cemetery with mulch rings, which add about 1400 additional square feet of mulched area.

A.1.19 Planting beds and tree rings (Mulch Rings) – Pre-Emergence Herbicide Contractor shall apply Snapshot herbicide, or effective equivalent pre-emergence herbicide, in early Spring and late Summer at the full label rate to all mulched and rocked areas for weed control.

A.1.20 Planting beds and tree rings (Mulch Rings) – Emerged Weed Removal/Control Contractor shall maintain all mulched areas, including tree rings, free of weeds (April through October) removed when they emerge throughout the month, either by hand or with carefully directed spot applications of a glufosinate herbicide (such as Finale), or other product approved by the COR. Ensure crusted/hardened mulch surfaces are broken up to allow air and water movement through the mulch layers.

A.1.21 Japanese Beetle Spray (35 Trees):

Contractor shall provide and apply a preventative application of Japanese Beetle pesticide to be uniformly applied to 35 trees on cemetery grounds upon identification of said trees following coordination with the COR and/or CO as appropriate, within 2 workdays of identification. The contractor shall provide and apply the maximum commercial label rate for the site.

a) Variations of this regime must be approved by the COR and /or CO as appropriate and must be in compliance with all State of Indiana pesticide treatment regulations and law.

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.

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

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.1.22 Tree/Shrub Pruning:

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. 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. Work normally occurs in Spring, Summer, and Fall, or as coordinated with the COR.

A.1.23 Tree Removal (25 Inches to 60 Inches in diameter):

Work consists of tree removal at the CORs request. Application and maintenance/repair schedules shall be coordinated with the COR. The contractor shall:

a) Remove all trees 25 inches to 60 inches in diameter identified by COR and/or CO as appropriate.

1) Contractor will use extreme caution when removing trees inside a burial section. Any damage to surrounding headstones, caused by contractor operations, will be replaced at the contractor’s expense.

b) Remove dead or dying trees injured by disease, insect infestation, animals, storms or mechanical damage.

"Certified Arborist" shall serve as the "site manager" for this contract and will be provided by the Contractor for not less than eight (8) hours a day whenever work is being performed - other than trash and debris pick-up. The Certified Arborist must have not less than three (3) years’ experience as a direct supervisor of a commercial tree maintenance operation that included removal, trimming, and stump removal in commercial, industrial, or public sites. The Certified Arborist will ensure all specifications are being met, ensure contract work does not conflict with ceremonies and cemetery operations, and ensure employees are adequately supervised and safety procedures are followed. The certified arborist must be certified by International Society of Arboriculture, or other acceptable national or state certifying agency, society, or association.

A.1.24 Tree Removal (12 Inches to 24 inches in diameter):

Work consists of tree removal at the CORs request. Application and maintenance/repair schedules shall be coordinated with the COR. The contractor shall:

c) Remove all trees 12 Inches to 24 inches in diameter identified by COR and/or CO as appropriate.

1) Contractor will use extreme caution when removing trees inside a burial section. Any damage to surrounding headstones, caused by contractor operations, will be replaced at the contractor’s expense.

d) Remove dead or dying trees injured by disease, insect infestation, animals, storms or mechanical damage.

e) "Certified Arborist" shall serve as the "site manager" for this contract and will be provided by the Contractor for not less than eight (8) hours a day whenever work is being performed - other than trash and debris pick-up. The Certified Arborist must have not less than three (3) years’ experience as a direct supervisor of a commercial tree maintenance operation that included removal, trimming, and stump removal in commercial, industrial, or public sites. The Certified Arborist will ensure all specifications are being met, ensure contract work does not conflict with ceremonies and cemetery operations, and ensure employees are adequately supervised and safety procedures are followed. The certified arborist must be certified by International Society of Arboriculture, or other acceptable national or state certifying agency, society, or association.

A.1.25 Tree Removal (Less Than 12 Inches in diameter):

Work consists of tree removal at the CORs request. Application and maintenance/repair schedules shall be coordinated with the COR. The contractor shall:

a) Remove all trees less than 12 inches identified by COR and/or CO as appropriate.

1) Contractor will use extreme caution when removing trees inside a burial section. Any damage to surrounding headstones, caused by contractor operations, will be replaced at the contractor’s expense.

b) Remove dead or dying trees injured by disease, insect infestation, animals, storms or mechanical damage.

c) "Certified Arborist" shall serve as the "site manager" for this contract and will be provided by the Contractor for not less than eight (8) hours a day whenever work is being performed - other than trash and debris pick-up. The Certified Arborist must have not less than three (3) years’ experience as a direct supervisor of a commercial tree maintenance operation that included removal, trimming, and stump removal in commercial, industrial, or public sites. The Certified Arborist will ensure all specifications are being met, ensure contract work does not conflict with ceremonies and cemetery operations, and ensure employees are adequately supervised and safety procedures are followed. The certified arborist must be certified by International Society of Arboriculture, or other acceptable national or state certifying agency, society, or association.

A.1.26 Tree Stump Removal (25 Inches to 60 inches in diameter):

Work consists of tree/shrub stump removal at the COR’s request. Application and maintenance/repair schedules shall be coordinated with the COR. The contractor shall:

a) Remove all tree stumps 25 inches to 60 inches in diameter identified by COR and/or CO as appropriate.

b) Remove existing stumps or stumps from trees removed due to dead or dying trees injured by disease, insect infestation, animals, storms or mechanical damage.

"Certified Arborist" shall serve as the "site manager" for this contract and will be provided by the Contractor for not less than eight (8) hours a day whenever work is being performed - other than trash and debris pick-up. The Certified Arborist must have not less than three (3) years’ experience as a direct supervisor of a commercial tree maintenance operation that included removal, trimming, and stump removal in commercial, industrial, or public sites. The Certified Arborist will ensure all specifications are being met, ensure contract work does not conflict with ceremonies and cemetery operations, and ensure employees are adequately supervised and safety procedures are followed. The certified arborist must be certified by International Society of Arboriculture, or other acceptable national or state certifying agency, society, or association

A.1.27 Tree Stump Removal (12 Inches to 24 inches in diameter ):

Work consists of tree/shrub stump removal at the COR’s request. Application and maintenance/repair schedules shall be coordinated with the COR. The contractor shall:

c) Remove all tree stumps 12 inches to 24 inches in diameter identified by COR and/or CO as appropriate.

d) Remove existing stumps or stumps from trees removed due to dead or dying trees injured by disease, insect infestation, animals, storms or mechanical damage.

e) "Certified Arborist" shall serve as the "site manager" for this contract and will be provided by the Contractor for not less than eight (8) hours a day whenever work is being performed - other than trash and debris pick-up. The Certified Arborist must have not less than three (3) years’ experience as a direct supervisor of a commercial tree maintenance operation that included removal, trimming, and stump removal in commercial, industrial, or public sites. The Certified Arborist will ensure all specifications are being met, ensure contract work does not conflict with ceremonies and cemetery operations, and ensure employees are adequately supervised and safety procedures are followed. The certified arborist must be certified by International Society of Arboriculture, or other acceptable national or state certifying agency, society, or association.

A.1.28 Tree Stump Removal (Less Than 12 Inches in diameter):

Work consists of tree stump removal at the CORs request. Application and maintenance/repair schedules shall be coordinated with the COR. The contractor shall:

a) Remove all tree stumps less than 12 inches in diameter identified by COR and/or CO as appropriate.

b) Remove existing stumps or stumps from trees removed due to dead or dying trees injured by disease, insect infestation, animals, storms or mechanical damage.

c) "Certified Arborist" shall serve as the "site manager" for this contract and will be provided by the Contractor for not less than eight (8) hours a day whenever work is being performed - other than trash and debris pick-up.