WO24PW036_SOW_Tree Timming_REV1.pdf

STATEMENT OF WORK (SOW)

FOR

Tree Trimming and Tree Removal Services

AT

Watervliet Arsenal

POST

Project #: WO24PW036 Installation Management, Public Works Division

Facilities Engineering (TAWV-IMP-F)

Revised: 6/19/2025

PART 1 GENERAL

1.1 SUMMARY OF WORK

1.1.1 Project Description

a. The Contractor shall furnish all labor, tools, safety equipment, supervision, transportation, insurance, and all other ancillary items/services necessary to complete the following project in strict accordance with the provisions of the contract and in a manner that will maintain a healthy, thriving, attractive and professional appearance of tree landscapes here on post.

b. Work under this Contract has four broad objectives:

i. To provide for the safety of people and property.

ii. To preserve trees and to maintain them in a healthy and vigorous condition.

iii. To maintain the efficient operation of security.

iv. To maintain the aesthetics of both the trees and the environment.

1.1.2 Location of Work

a. The work is located across the installation, approximately as indicated. The exact locations will be shown by the Contracting Officer Representative (COR).

1.1.3 Standard of Performance.

a. The Contractor shall furnish all labor, tools, safety equipment, supervision, transportation, insurance, and all other ancillary items/services necessary to complete the following project in strict accordance with the provisions of this Contract.

b. The Contractor’s performance shall be in accordance with the most current standards as stated in this solicitation, as well as any other current standard prevailing in the tree removal industry. The Contractor shall be required to perform and complete the tree removal work described in this Contract in a thorough, professional, and safe manner. Any item primary, secondary, or incidental to the performance of this Contract shall be included in this service. The Contractor shall employ individuals skilled in their respective trades. Any person the Government may deem incompetent or disorderly must be promptly removed by the Contractor and not allowed to work on the project.

1.1.4 Period of Performance

a. The Contractor shall be required to (i) commence work under this contract within 7 calendar days after the date the contractor receives notice to proceed, (ii) prosecute the work diligently, and (iii) complete the entire work ready for use not later than 120 calendar days after notice to proceed was given. The time stated for completion shall include final cleanup of the premises.

1.1.5 Hours of Operation

a. Normal duty hours are 7:00 AM through 4:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 7:00 AM through 3:00 PM on Fridays. Federal holidays are non-workdays. If a federal holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the preceding Friday or following Monday is a work holiday.

b. The following holidays are observed by the Watervliet Arsenal:

Holiday Date Observed

New Years Day January 1

Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday Third Monday in January

President’s Day Third Monday in February

Memorial Day Last Monday in May

Juneteenth June 19

Independence Day July 4

Labor Day First Monday in September

Veteran’s Day November 11

Thanksgiving Day Fourth Thursday in November

Friday after Thanksgiving Friday after Thanksgiving

Christmas Eve December 24

Christmas December 25

1.2 SUBMITTALS

1.2.1 General Submittal Requirements

a. The Contractor shall provide submittal documents via e-mail to the Contracting Officer for review and approval. Provide all physical (non-document) submittals (including but not limited to material swatches, samples, etc.) directly to the Contracting Officer for review and approval. All submittals require government approval unless otherwise explicitly stated.

b. The Contractor shall reference APPENDIX A “Consolidated List of Submittals” for the complete list of required submittals.

1.2.2 Contractor Safety Plan

a. The Contractor shall submit a safety plan which is specific to the work activity being performed under the scope of this project for Government review and approval.

1.2.3 Project Schedule

a. The Contractor shall create a project schedule and submit for Government review and approval.

b. The project schedule shall detail the phases of work and the overall timeline for the execution of the work. The contractor shall include delivery dates, appropriate milestones, and shall clearly detail any requirements for work performed outside of regular hours of operation.

1.3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

1.3.1 Watervliet Arsenal Information for Contractors (WAIC)

a. The Contractor shall perform all work in strict conformance with Watervliet Arsenal Instructions for Contractors (WAIC). The contractor shall read and understand this document prior to submitting a proposal. The WAIC is publicly available at:

<http://www.wva.army.mil/Documents/Contracting/WAIC.pdf>

1.3.2 Use of Premises.

a. Work hereunder shall be performed on Government property, which will include working on streets and roads, in alleyways and driveways, along fence lines and occasionally hard to reach areas.

b. The Contractor shall have full use of the work zone defined by an area that is a radius of two (2) times the height of the subject tree being pruned or removed.

c. The Contractor and their employees shall obey all local rules and regulations governing safety, parking, traffic speed and circulation while onsite. The Contractor shall coordinate parking, storage and staging areas with the Project COR prior to the start of work.

d. The Contractor shall keep all roads, streets, alleyways, and other paved surfaces (to include sidewalks) within the project site free from dirt and debris. Contractor shall clean the project site of all dirt and debris resulting from the Contractor’s operations at no additional cost to the Government.

e. The Contractor shall operate machinery and equipment with discretion and with minimum interference to pedestrian and vehicle traffic. The Contractor shall maintain full responsibility for equipment, machinery, supplies, and materials left on the site. The Government shall not be liable for injury, losses or damages incurred by the Contractor.

f. The Contractor shall not perform work of any kind if there is a reasonable possibility of limbs or debris damaging vehicles, private property, pedestrians, or if the worker’s safety is put at risk. The Contractor shall be held liable for all damage to vehicles, private property, and pedestrians caused by falling debris during execution of the work.

g. All damages to vehicles and property of any kind, and injuries to pedestrians, shall be reported to the Project COR immediately after occurrence.

h. The Contractor agrees that while entering upon the Arsenal to perform the work, it shall be the duty and responsibility of the Contractor and all its subcontractors to be familiar with, and comply with, all applicable OSHA sections that pertain to the job function and be familiar with its requirements while performing services resulting from this Contract.

1.3.3 Contractor Attire and Conduct.

http://www.wva.army.mil/Documents/Contracting/WAIC.pdf

a. Proper attire (in good taste) and personal protective equipment as applicable and in conformance with the most current version of the ANSI Z133 shall always be worn.

b. The Contractor and its employees shall wear shirts or uniforms identifying the Contractor’s company name and logo and shall always maintain photo identification on their person (this includes visitor badges or paper copies provided at the gate).

c. The Contractor and its employees are cautioned to conduct themselves in a professional manner, and shall refrain from any behavior, language or activity that is unbecoming and disrespectful to Arsenal personnel, tenants, or visitors. Contractor shall remove employees exhibiting unbecoming or disrespectful behavior from the project site at the request of the Project COR.

d. In addition, all vehicles and equipment belonging to the Contractor, its employees, and its subcontractors, shall have identification with the company’s name and phone number, along with the company’s insignia, so that the operator’s identity may be verified. The sign must be no smaller than 12 inches tall by 12 inches wide, placed on the driver and passenger side doors.

1.3.4 Safety, Barricades, Signs, and Lighting.

a. The Contractor shall provide, erect and maintain safety devices, lights, signs, and barricades constructed of appropriate material, around the work area, roads, driveways, and walkways to protect Arsenal personnel, tenants, and visitors. In addition, the Contractor shall provide flagmen in areas of congestion or reduction in traffic lane width. Acceptable devices include, but are not limited to the following:

i. 4-foot-high plastic orange safety mesh fencing.

ii. 4-foot-high plastic orange bollards with caution tape and warning signs.

b. To ensure the protection and safety of Arsenal personnel, tenants, and visitors, the Contractor shall adjust or extend the barricades, signs, etc. as directed by the Project COR at no additional cost to the Government.

c. The Contractor shall perform all work in strict accordance with OSHA requirements. Contractor shall ensure that workers have completed all applicable OSHA specification or other training needed to perform their job assignment. Training topics applicable to the scope of the current project may include, but not limited to, scaffold, fall protection, cranes, lifts, excavation, electrical safety, tools, operation of motor vehicles, and mechanized equipment.

d. The Contractor shall remove all barriers, signs, and other Contractor material and equipment from the project site at the completion of the work.

1.3.5 Noise and Dust Control.

a. Noise, dust and other disrupting activities resulting from the tree pruning and removal operations could be considered detrimental to the conduct of activities here at the Arsenal and adjacent commercial and residential properties. Therefore, the Contractor shall monitor its activities and exercise precautions whenever practical when using equipment and machinery to keep noise and dust levels to a minimum.

b. To reduce loud disruptive noise levels, the Contractor shall ensure mufflers and other devices are provided in good working condition and in conformance with the manufacturer’s operation manual on equipment, internal combustion engines, and compressors.

1.3.6 Sanitation.

a. The Contractor will be allowed use of the restroom facilities on post if this privilege is not abused.

An example of abuse is the lavatories are found soiled with dirt and debris, etc. Frequently soiled fixtures and/or facilities will be probable cause to terminate the allowed use of the facilities, and the Contractor will be responsible to find or provide sanitary facilities at no additional cost to the Government.

1.4 ON-SITE PERMITS

1.4.1 Excavation (Dig Permit)

a. The clearance of buried utilities will be performed by the Government in advance of the Contractor performing subsurface work, unless otherwise explicitly stated.

b. The Contractor shall obtain a copy of the completed Utility Clearance Permit (WVA Form 420-2-E) from the COR prior to performing subsurface work. Verify existing utility locations indicated on contract drawings, within area of work.

1.4.2 Hot Work and Confined Space

a. Obtain permit for welding, burning, use of flame, or entry into confined space from WVA Fire Department by calling (518)266-5990 each day the permit is to be used.

1.5 APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

1.5.1 Applicable Standards and Regulations

a. All work shall be done in a thorough and professional manner in accordance with the Contract documents, specifications, and acknowledged industry standards. Deviations from the Contract documents, specifications, or industry standards shall not be permitted without the prior written consent of the Contracting Officer.

b. These standards include, but are not limited to:

i. ANSI A300 or most current revision of “Trees, Shrubs and Other Woody Plant Management—Standard Practices (Pruning).”

ii. ANSI Z133.1 or most current revision of, “Pruning, Trimming, Repairing, Maintaining and Removing Trees, and Cutting Brush - Safety Requirements.”

c. Any material, method, or procedure specified by reference to a specific standard or specification, such as a commercial standard, federal or state specification, industry or government code, trade association code or standard, or other similar standard, shall comply with the requirements in the latest revision thereof and any amendments or supplements thereto.

d. The code, specification, or standard referred to, except as modified in the specifications, shall have full force and effect as though printed in the specifications. Such specifications and standards will not be furnished to the Contractor, since manufacturers and trades involved are required to be familiar with these requirements.

1.6 CONTRACTOR’S QUALIFICATIONS

1.6.1 Contractor - General Requirements and Responsibilities

a. The Contractor shall be able to demonstrate that they currently provide or has provided Trimming & Removal Services that is similar in size and scope to this Contract.

b. The Contractor must have five references documenting previously performed Tree Trimming & Removal Services. References shall be provided with the bid. References provided shall be current and not from an immediate family member of any Contractor employee, or of the Arsenal. The

Government will be the sole judge as to whether the services performed for the references are like the scope of services contained herein, and whether the Contractor can perform such services.

c. The Contractor shall be regularly engaged in providing the services stated in this Scope of Work for a minimum of three (3) consecutive years within the last five (5) years.

d. The Contractor shall demonstrate a sound knowledge and understanding of local tree species and their growth rates, including all the tree species to be pruned within this Contract.

e. The Contractor shall hold knowledge and experience in the pruning practices and maintenance of the tree species included in this Contract.

f. The Contractor shall provide the Project COR with their General Foreman’s, or other appropriate Single Point of Contact (SPOC), name and cell-phone number. The General Foreman or SPOC shall be on-call during the hours of operation as defined by this Scope of Work. The General Foreman or SPOC shall be able to speak, read and write in English.

1.6.2 Certified Arborist – General Requirements and Responsibilities

a. The Contractor shall employ an Urban Forester who holds a degree, and/or an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborist with who has at least five (5) years’ experience to oversee tree work.

b. The Contractor shall provide with their bid submittal copies of all certifications, degrees, or any other requested documentation that provides evidence of their Urban Forester and/or arborist’s experience and certifications.

c. Failure to provide the requested documentation may result in disqualification of Contractor’s bid.

All certifications and degrees shall be current at the time of Contract award and shall remain current and up to date throughout the life of the Contract.

d. The Certified Arborist shall demonstrate the ability and experience to supervise the Contractor and its employees to ensure the satisfactory completion of operations, including but not limited to, ensuring proper clearances, proper pruning practices, productivity, clean-up, and safety.

e. The Certified Arborist shall have the technical ability and experience in the recognition, diagnosis, and examination of trees for indications of hazardous conditions such as the presence of disease, decayed trunk or cracks, presence of termites, dead or dying trees, poor structure, and other structural stability and safety conditions, necessary prior to allowing personnel to climb and/or enter trees.

f. The Certified Arborist shall report all hazardous conditions that cannot be addressed by corrective pruning, along with a recommendation to mitigate the hazardous condition, to the Project COR for a determination on proceeding with the recommended work.

g. The Certified Arborist shall represent the Contractor and shall have the authority to act on behalf of the Contractor.

h. The Certified Arborist shall always be on-site when tree pruning is being performed and shall always remain within visual and voice communication range, and attentive of the cutting practices and progress of the employees.

i. The Certified Arborist shall determine the order of trees to be pruned (including the extent to which pruning is performed), and/or removed.

j. The Certified Arborist shall practice best management practices in conformance with applicable arboricultural industry standards and practices.

k. In the event the Certified Arborist is not present at the work site or adequately attentive during tree pruning operations, the Project COR or his/her authorized representative, shall have the right to suspend the work. In addition, the Government shall have the right to terminate the Contract during any phase of the work, for the Contractor’s non-compliance with the requirements of this Contract.

The work may resume upon approval of the Project COR following the satisfactory resolution of the Contractor’s non-compliant performance issues. Any losses resulting from work delays due to the Contractor’s noncompliant performance shall be the sole responsibility of the Contractor.

1.7 CONTRACTOR EQUIPMENT

1.7.1 General Contractor Equipment Requirements.

a. All safety equipment required by OSHA, Federal, state, or local guidelines shall be in place and in proper operating condition. OSHA must approve all safety equipment for the purpose for which it is being used. OSHA-approved hard hats and any other OSHA required equipment or clothing must be worn at the worksite.

b. No ladders will be allowed at the work site.

c. All equipment used by the Contractor to perform services under this Contract shall be maintained and in good operating condition. All gasoline cans or any other equipment/container used to hold fuel shall be OSHA approved.

d. Safety ropes, tools, severed limbs, equipment, and aerial lifts shall be handled in such a way as to ensure they do not encounter any utility lines.

e. The Contractor shall inspect any climbing ropes in use at the site, from end to end, before the start of each day’s work, to ensure that there is no weakening, fraying, stressing, or other damage that constitutes a danger to the climber or workers. Similarly, all other safety equipment will be checked daily to ensure that it is in safe working condition. Any equipment defect shall be rectified immediately.

f. All aerial lifts will be insulated, maintained, and tested to ensure the safety of an employee in the bucket or at any other controls should the lift meet any energized utility line on the work site.

g. The Government prefers Contractors who demonstrate innovative approaches to reducing their impact on the natural environment through use of alternative energy, low-emission equipment, biodegradable chemicals, or items with recycled content.

h. By signing this Contract, the Contractor agrees to conscientiously review their own business processes and purchases to reduce their overall carbon footprint and the use of chemicals and equipment that are potentially harmful to the community.

1.7.2 Equipment Identification

a. The Contractor shall create and affix a label to all large equipment, dumpsters, and other mobilized property, which is weather-resistant (laminated, or within a see-thru label hanger), securely affixed to the equipment or visible through a window, and which clearly displays the General Contractor’s:

i. Company Name, POC Name (first, last), POC phone number, Project Number.

1.7.3 Waste Dumpster

a. The Contractor shall place any waste dumpsters in a manner that does not interfere with thru traffic.

b. Place waste dumpsters with a minimum of 33’ clearance from any building. The final location shall be coordinated with and approved by the COR before any dumpsters are mobilized.

c. Cover all waste dumpsters when not in use, and before the end of each work shift. The cover shall be weather-tight.

d. The Contractor shall submit all Bills of Lading and Weight Slips associated with the disposal of all construction and demolition (C&D) debris to the Contracting Officer monthly. The contractor shall provide this information within ten (10) days of disposal of the waste.

PART 2 PRODUCTS

2.1 GENERAL

a. All work shall be in strict accordance with product manufacturer’s instructions and specifications, including but not limited to manufacturer guidance for storage, staging, application, installation, and disposal of the product. The Contractor shall submit Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all hazardous materials to be used.

PART 3 EXECUTION

3.1 PERFORMANCE OF WORK

3.1.1 Tree Risk Assessment.

a. The purpose of this report is to provide a condition assessment of all trees here on-site (roughly 284) and note those that are a potential risk to people or property. The primary objective is to mitigate potential hazards resulting from falling trees or tree parts that may be created by subject trees.

However, while evaluating the trees, the inspector shall note any tree maintenance needs.

b. The trees shall be assessed through inspections by a qualified arborist, preferably an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist. Every inspection shall be recorded and provided in an electronic file for future reference

c. This tree inspection shall identify hazardous trees in poor physiological or structural condition and the required work management recommendations to reduce the risk of the hazardous trees to an acceptable level.

d. The areas around main roads, occupied facilities, well used formal foot paths, public used features, parking lots, etc. shall be identified as a priority area.

e. The findings of this report shall provide management work recommendations with the order of work priority given to primarily address any hazardous trees or required maintenance. Management work tasks shall be identified as “Low”, “Medium”, or “High” priority.

f. All tree inspections shall be performed from the ground level with the use of an acoustic sounding hammer and probe. No invasive decay detection instruments should be used.

g. All tree inspections shall be carried out in accordance with current best practices and give a systematic, consistent, and transparent evaluation method to tree inspecting. The Contractor shall review the canopy (crown), branches, and root zone to check for signs of failure. These include but are not limited to the following:

i. Dead, diseased, dying or broken branches.

ii. Thinning or poor canopy health.

iii. An unstable branching pattern overextended or weakly attached branches, or cracks in the stems.

iv. Cracks or decayed areas in the main trunk.

v. Exposed or decayed roots, heaving of the soil, fungus growth, or cracks in the soil around the root plate.

h. Where required, trees may be grouped as a whole, and tree works recommended for that group.

i. The level of detail of the inspection may vary depending on the target occupation and the size of the tree or tree groups e.g., large trees in high target occupation areas may be inspected in much greater detail than small trees in low target occupation are.

j. Individual tree characteristics shall be considered when conducting such inspections for defects or failure potential. Evaluations should include understanding the impact of such failures and outlining a plan of action to prevent and mitigate these failures.

k. There are several factors that influence tree failure potential such as soil type and saturation, wind exposure, pest damage, poor growing conditions, and poor pruning practices such as topping.

Among the characteristics to consider when conducting these inspections are:

i. Defects - severity and location. Decay, cankers, cracks and other positive indicators of weakness in the roots, stems and branches may need immediate attention if a target is present.

ii. Species Characteristics - Some tree species possess weaker wood, a susceptibility to decay, poor growth habits and potential for pests. They could be more likely to fail after wounding because of poor ability to wall off internal decay or health issues.

iii. Canopy size, shape and weight distribution - This is especially true in situations where a tree is exposed to windy conditions, is leaning or has a poor stem-to-canopy ratio.

iv. Crown architecture - Poor branching and similar characteristics can create high-risk situations in strong winds and other weather conditions.

v. Plant health and vigor - This determines how a tree can overcome wounding or pest infestations.

vi. The overall size of the defective part - A predetermined rating system, which outlines critical thresholds, should be considered and incorporated into the tree’s risk management plan.

3.1.2 Tree Trimming.

a. This shall consist of pruning and trimming select trees. The Contractor shall perform all tree service to ensure a healthy natural or manicured appearance. Pruning shall be required to lift, remove, and/or cutback branches that conflict with normal traffic or safety. In addition, the Contractor shall prune or trim trees that pose public safety hazards. Trees that pose threats to structures or buildings shall be removed. Topping and de-horning are not permitted. Trimming or pruning of trees that touch or hang over energized utility poles or power lines is the responsibility of the Contractor.

b. The Contractor shall be responsible for removing all debris generated from trimming or pruning operations. Contractor shall perform all tree work in accordance with Contract specifications and the following tree care standards, latest addition, unless otherwise directed by the Project COR.

c. The Contractor is cautioned to take special care when entering any type of equipment or vehicle on regularly maintained grounds areas. The Contractor will be responsible for restoring any damage they make to the grounds while performing tree maintenance.

d. The trees to be trimmed will be plainly marked by the Government with ribbon or paint at the base of the tree. If all the trees within a street need trimming, or trees can be clearly identified using the tags, paint will not indicate which trees may need to be trimmed.

e. The Contractor shall use a three-step cutting method illustrated in Figure A (below). Remove a branch without leaving a stub or cutting too flush to the tree. Make the first cut part way through the branch at A. Then prune the branch off at B. Finally, remove the stub at C without harming the trunk of the tree.

f. The Contractor shall trim all trees, so the natural form and shape of the tree is maintained. Under no circumstance(s) shall the total pruning exceed 20% of the tree’s crown.

g. The Contractor shall trim all dead, dying, diseased, decayed, or decaying, and obviously weak branches and stubs which are two (2) inches in diameter or greater.

h. The Contractor shall trim to reduce or eliminate crossing, and/or rubbing branches greater than two

(2) inches in diameter.

i. All lower branches and hanging branches shall be pruned to provide a minimum of fourteen (14) foot of clearance above streets and parking lots.

j. The Contractor shall trim all lower branches to obtain a minimum six (6) foot clearance from a structure.

k. The Contractor shall trim all branches that may interfere with illumination of a streetlight so that the light may specifically shine onto the street/road.

l. The Contractor shall trim all branches and remove all overgrowth that poses an issue to our perimeter security (i.e. protruding over the fence line). Clearance shall be ground-to-sky; however, trimming shall be to the maximum reach of the bucket but in no way less than fifteen (15) feet from the top of the fence fabric.

m. No person working in the trees shall use shoes with spikes, spurs, or climbing irons, or any other footwear which will injure the tree.

n. The Contractor shall tie off all branches where damage could be caused by gouging of a sodded area and/or damage to public walks and other private property.

o. Final tree pruning cuts shall be made outside of the Branch Bark Ridge and outside of the Branch Collar. Flush cuts shall not be made.

p. Tree limbs shall be removed and controlled in such a manner as to cause no damage or injury to people, animals, property, other parts of the tree, or other plants.

q. The Contractor shall reference ANSI A300 standards, or the most current revision, for any pruning practices not specifically mentioned.

3.1.3 Tree Removal.

a. This shall consist of removal of select trees and site restoration. The Contractor shall remove tree down to a stump, chipping or hauling away the small branches and cutting the trunk into small sections.

b. The Contractor shall perform stump and perimeter roots removal by completely removing, by cutting and grinding all growth to a minimum of six (6) inches below grade. Stumps shall be ground within one (1) workday of the tree removal date. Stump-grinding debris shall be removed the same day grinding is performed.

c. In areas where a lawn sprinkler system exists, the Contractor shall backfill with topsoil, and lay sod to match the existing ground grade. In areas where no lawn sprinkler system exists, the Contractor shall backfill with topsoil and compact to match existing grades.

d. In locations where ordinary felling operations might cause damage to property, the trees shall be suitably dismembered and felled using recognized forestry rigging practices as stated in the most current revision of ANSI (encompassing OSHA work-site safety regulation), ensuring that any severed portion of the tree is always under control.

e. If there is danger in removal of the direction or damage property, guide ropes shall be used. All limbs shall be removed from trees to a height and width sufficient to allow the tree to fall clear of any wires and other objects in the vicinity. The Contractor shall use recognized forestry rigging practices as stated in the most current revision of ANSI (encompassing OSHA work-site safety regulation).

f. Due to the danger of trees falling in an unexpected direction, even though the cut is made on the proper side, the Contractor shall take precaution in roping trees, most especially those which are diseased, rotten or rotting, split, or in appearance to be visibly weak. The Contractor shall use recognized forestry rigging practices as stated in the most current revision of ANSI (encompassing OSHA work-site safety regulation).

g. Under no circumstances shall pike poles be used in the performance of work under this Contract.

h. Ropes shall be used to lower all limbs of sufficient size to cause damage to other trees or surrounding public or private property.

i. Before any trees are felled, workmen, other than those operating the felling equipment or giving directions to the workmen involved, shall move and remain clear of the danger zone. All workers who are within the danger zone shall adhere to the safety guidelines as required by the most current revision of ANSI standards, OSHA, and any other governing policy, ordinance, standard, or law.

The danger zone is that sector of the felling-area in which the tree(s) could fall. The size of the danger zone shall be determined by the Contractor upon consideration of all pertinent factors relative to the tree removal operation. Ample warning shall always be given prior to the tree falling and all workmen must stand clear in case the tree springs from the stump while falling. Prior to felling any trees, the Contractor shall clear away all brush, debris, or equipment that is not required/needed for felling of the tree.

j. Under no circumstances shall a partially cut tree or debris be left standing during rest breaks, lunch breaks, or overnight. All debris created must be removed from the jobsite daily. If the Contractor must leave debris overnight, the Contractor shall contact the Project COR for authorization. Under no circumstances shall the Contractor leave debris overnight without prior approval from the Project

COR.

k. When removing a tree that is split, or a tree with twin trunks, chains or cables with adequate strength shall be placed tightly around the tree before commencing the back cut. At least one chain or cable shall be placed above, and as close as practical, to the back cut to prevent separation of the trunk.

l. The Contractor shall take special precautions with tree(s) that have item(s) in and around them prior to performing services.

3.1.4 Stump Grinding.

a. The Contractor shall not grind any stump without prior approval from the Project COR.

b. The Contractor shall use stump-grinding machinery which has a cutter-head designed to grind stumps approximately six (6) inches below ground level.

c. The cutter-head shall have solid fixed-teeth, equipped with carbide insert cutters. Swinging teeth will not be acceptable. The machine must have a guard to protect flying debris and cannot be used within five (5) feet of pedestrians, vehicles, road traffic, and/or property.

d. All loose material, including chips and/or soil, or any mixture created by the grinding process, shall be removed by the Contractor before leaving the worksite at the end of each workday.

e. Upon completion of stump-grinding activities, the terrain is to be left in a condition which allows lawn mowers to pass over and safely cut over the area(s).

f. Once the stump has been ground, topsoil shall be placed within the area of excavation. The topsoil shall be fertile, friable, natural and a sandy loam. Topsoil shall be free of subsoil, clay lumps, rocks, weeds, non-soil materials, and other litter or contamination. Topsoil shall not contain roots, stumps, or stone.

g. Once topsoil has been placed, the Contractor shall restore existing lawn areas disturbed by stump grinding by the installation of new sod. Sod is defined as blocks, squares, and strips of turf grass, and adhering soil used for vegetative planting. Sod shall be placed edge to edge for complete coverage. Lawn is defined as ground cover with fine textured grass kept neatly mowed.

h. The Contractor shall sod only when weather and soil conditions are deemed suitable by the City for proper placement.

i. The Contractor shall be responsible for all preparation, application, and cleanup of topsoil and sod while meeting the minimum requirements listed in this Scope of Work.

j. The Contractor shall verify that soil placement and compaction have been satisfactorily completed.

k. The Contractor shall verify that topsoil shall be free of weeds and foreign material immediately before sodding.

l. The Contractor shall rake the areas to be sodded, so that they are smooth, free from unsightly variations, bumps, ridges, or depressions.

m. The Contractor shall install the sod on the prepared surface with the edges in close contact and alternate courses staggered. The exposed edges of sod shall be buried flush with the adjacent soil.

Fill the seams within the sod by applying a thin layer of compost over the installed sod and raking the material across the turf to fill gaps.

n. Immediately upon planting, Contractor shall water the sod to hydrate the turf.

o. During planting, the Contractor shall remove excess and waste materials, keep areas clean, and take precautions to avoid damage to existing structures, plants, grass, and streets.

p. The Contractor shall protect topsoil from wind and water erosion until planting is completed.

q. The Contractor shall be responsible for preserving all underground utility markings, which can include, but are not limited to, electrical, water, gas, cable, irrigation, etc. In the event a utility is interrupted, the Project COR shall be notified immediately of the incident and the Contractor shall follow up in writing documenting the incident within twenty-four (24) hours.

r. The Contractor shall be responsible for the repair of any damage(s), which occurs during the stump-grinding operation, to structure(s) of the sidewalk, curb, underground utilities, and turf or surrounding vegetation at their own cost.

s. The Contractor shall be responsible for the prompt repair of any damage(s) caused to structure(s) sidewalk, curb, underground utilities, and turf or surrounding vegetation that occurs during the stump-grinding operation, and at Contractor’s cost.

3.1.5 Tree Planting.

a. This shall consist of planting select trees on base. The Contractor must submit a cost proposal for installation of same species trees in place of those removed. The Project COR will coordinate the locations of where the new trees are to be planted with Roads and Grounds.

b. Horticulturally skilled workers, trained and experienced in accepted nursery and arboriculture practices shall perform the planting. The work shall be performed in a workmanlike manner under the supervision of a qualified planting supervisor demonstrating a background in landscape operations.

c. The Contractor shall ensure that the trees planted are free of defects and disease and planted in a way to ensure proper growth and establishment. Planted trees will be replaced at the Contractor’s expense should the tree fail to be established or dies within one (1) year of installation.

d. The Contractor shall be responsible for assuring coordination for excavation for all trees installed under this service.

e. The equipment used for tree planting shall be of sufficient type, capacity and quantity to safely and efficiently perform the tree planting work as specified.

f. The Contractor shall provide all topsoil required to complete the planting operation. Planting soil shall be a natural, fertile, friable loam typical of cultivated topsoil of the locality, containing at least 10% and not more than 20% decayed organic matter (humus). Topsoil shall be free of sub-soil, stones greater than one and one-quarter inches, earth clods, sticks, stumps, clay lumps, roots, or other objectionable, extraneous matter or debris. Topsoil shall not be by test either excessively acid or alkaline nor contain toxic substances. Topsoil shall not be delivered or used for planting while in a frozen or muddy condition.

g. Fertilizer used shall be a complete, slow-release, root contact packet, 16-8-16, or equal, that is engineered to stimulate root growth and is a standard product complying with State and Federal Fertilizer Laws.

h. Water shall be furnished by the Contractor and be free from ingredients harmful to humans and plant life. Contractor shall supply hoses and other watering equipment required for the work.

Contractor shall be responsible to furnish its own supply of water to the site unless otherwise directed by the Project COR.

i. Watering for trees shall be provided through use of a drip irrigation type bag.

j. Mulch used shall be high quality, shredded or double-ground, premium bark mulch consisting of clean, organic plant material. Mulch shall be uniform in color, a good brown color. The composition of the shredded pine bark material shall not exhibit a noticeable degree of any color change characteristics when wet.

k. Stake, guy and anchor immediately after planting of each tree. Equally space stakes and set parallel to structures, contours, paving or curbs. Set plants plumb and hold in position until the soil has been tamped solidly around the ball and/or roots. Place stakes to depth indicated and fasten to tree with approved strapping, with appropriate knot. Stakes shall be wood, 8” x 2” x 3” in size, pointed at one end. Tree ties shall be black polyester straps. Samples of stakes and tree ties shall be submitted to the Government for approval.

l. Trees shall be plumb, faced to give best appearance, and planted at the center of the planting areas.

If the Contractor is unable to install tree at proper grade and/or in center of tree well or designated planting location, the Contractor shall not install tree and contact the Project COR.

m. All plants shall be nursery grown whether balled and bur-lapped or container grown, under climatic conditions like those in Albany, New York. The tree plantings shall be typical of their species and variety. Trees shall be straight, symmetrical with a crown having a persistent main leader, be growing from a single, healthy root system with no girdling roots. All tree plantings shall be sound and healthy free from defects, disfiguring knots, sun scald, and injuries or abrasions of the bark.

They shall be free of plant diseases, pests, scale and all forms of infestations, and possess a normal balance between height and spread. Plants shall be matched as closely as possible where uniformity is required.

n. All root balls shall conform to the size requirements specified for the proposed tree species and size at planting identified in the Plant List, and to the code of standards set forth in the current edition of American Standard for Nursery Stock.

o. All tree plantings either balled and bur-lapped or container grown shall retain root systems as solid units. The diameter and depth of the balls of soil must be sufficient to encompass the fibrous and feeding root system necessary for the healthy development of each tree planting.

p. The tree plantings and root balls shall remain intact as a unit during all operations. No tree planting shall be accepted when the ball of earth surrounding its roots has been badly cracked or broken, either before or during the process of planting.

q. Tree planting can occur under normal, favorable weather conditions. Tree planting will not be permitted as determined by the Project COR under adverse weather conditions such as when the ground is frozen or during extreme heat.

r. Plants shall be handled and transported to prevent damage of any sort including but not limited to breakage of branches, scraped or bruised trunk, or broken root ball and roots. Plants shall be protected during storage, and transportation by watering, covering, as necessary to ensure their continued health and viability.

s. The Contractor will inspect and approve all trees at the nursery prior to pick up. However, this does not alter the right of the Project COR or designee to inspect and reject unsuitable trees delivered to the planting site.

t. The Contractor shall remove all soil, where present, from above the root flare to expose the top-most root where it emerges from the trunk and measure the distance between the top-most root and the bottom of the root ball or root mass. Hole shall be dug about 10% shallower than this depth and at least three times the width of the ball or in the case of bare root at least one foot further than the longest roots. Planting pits shall be excavated to the full width and length of the surface opening. In lawn areas, the planting area must be dug to the depth of the root-ball and 3 times the width.

u. The Contractor shall carefully backfill by hand the approved topsoil in layers and water each layer thoroughly to fill all voids and allow to settle. Finish back-filling to a depth that finished grade level at settlement will be at established sidewalk level.

v. After bringing soil in the tree well to grade and forming the planting saucer, thoroughly soak the tree well by repeatedly filling the tree well with water to the full depth of the saucer, allowing the water to completely percolate into the soil between fillings.

w. At the time of planting judiciously flood plants with water. The Contractor will also include in his base bid costs for watering trees twice a week exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays and holidays for a period of 30 days from the date of planting.

x. All installed trees that are injured or damaged due to the lack of water, or the use of too much water, shall be the Contractor's responsibility to correct.

y. The Contractor shall prune only badly bruised, broken, or crossing limbs.

z. The Contractor shall be responsible for the immediate removal of all debris resulting from the work at each job site. Each job site is to be left in a condition equal or better than that which existed prior to the execution of work order. Contractor shall be solely responsible for disposal of all tree debris.

3.1.6 Disposal.

a. The Contractor shall be solely responsible for the disposal of all debris generated under the ensuing contract. Upon completion of cutting and removal of tree stumps, the Contractor shall broom clean and remove all debris from the affected area to the satisfaction of the Project

COR.

b. Tree cuttings shall be chipped and disposed of offsite. No chips shall remain in piles on-site unless otherwise directed by the Project COR. When chips are blown into the container no chips or debris shall be left hanging in the branches of low growing trees and shrubs or on maintained landscape features, fences or walls.

c. Large logs shall be removed from the site daily for recycling disposal. Stockpiling of large tree trunks and large branches on-site for short durations of time shall be coordinated with the Project COR. The stockpiling of tree cuttings, underbrush, and other green waste (including excess chipping waste), and debris on site, that is designated for removal from the site, shall not be permitted.

d. Tree cuttings, underbrush, green waste and debris shall be transported off-site in a manner that will prevent spillage.

e. The Contractor shall provide documentation (e.g. waste manifest and receipts) of disposal at the recycling/ processing facility licensed to accept the tree cuttings and debris, or letter from the landowner where tree cuttings, underbrush, green waste and debris will be disposed, attesting that there is an agreement with the Contractor to dispose of tree cuttings and debris on their property.

f. Use of Arsenal waste receptacles for cutting debris disposal is strictly prohibited.

3.1.7 Protection and Restoration of Existing Work/Conditions.

a. Tree branches shall be cut and lowered in a manner that will prevent the branches from falling and damaging existing lawns, plantings, pavement, buildings, vehicles, and other existing items.

b. The Contractor shall take precautions as necessary (e.g. laying of plywood sheathing to distribute weight) to prevent rutting of turf by vehicles.

c. Damage caused by the Contractor’s operations, including damages to ground and lawn areas disturbed and damaged by pruning and removal work, shall be restored to the original pre-existing condition to the satisfaction of Roads and Grounds and the Project COR at no additional cost to the Government.

d. Damaged turf areas shall be leveled and re-sodded, and all horticultural plantings damaged beyond repair shall be replaced in-kind. Damage to structures, utilities, signs, light fixtures, landscape furniture, or other Government property, will be fully and completely repaired or replaced at the Contractor’s expense. It is understood that all damage caused by workmen engaged in work under this Contract will be repaired by the Contractor without delay, and at its sole cost and expense.

Repair work will be carried out by skilled workmen acceptable to the Project COR or designee, and all repair and replacements must be approved in writing prior to final payment.

e. The Contractor shall immediately contain and clean-up the release or spill of hazardous materials (e.g. vehicle and equipment oil and fluids) in conformance with Hazardous Waste containment and clean-up requirements and immediately report the incident to the Project COR.

f. The Contractor shall implement storm water pollution control and prevention measures (e.g. best management practices) to prevent run-off of construction debris, sediment-laden water, and other pollutants from leaving the construction area and/or entering streams and storm drainage systems.

g. At the end of each workday, the Contractor shall be responsible for cleaning the site and all grounds that it has occupied, of all rubbish, debris, downed tree limbs, and branches. All parts of the work shall be left in a neat, orderly, and presentable condition. The removal of all rubbish and debris generated because of the Contractor’s work under this contract will be the responsibility of the Contractor. No debris will be allowed to remain in or on any roadways or greenspace at any time.

h. The worksite shall be left in a condition at least as clean and orderly as when the crew arrived. All grass, gravel, and garden areas shall be left “fan-rake-clean.” All driveways, walkways, roads, curbs, patios, and other asphalt, concrete, stone, and similar surfaces, shall be “broom-clean” when the site is vacated at the end of each shift and at the end of each day.

3.1.8 Unsatisfactory Work,

a. The Contractor is solely responsible to ensure that all work is satisfactorily complete and performed in conformance with this Contract including, but not limited to, work quality and scheduled work completion dates. Work will be determined unsatisfactory if any parts of the Contractor’s work or operations are not in conformance with the contract, including this document, at any time within the Contract period.

b. The Project COR shall have the right to perform, or have Roads and Grounds perform, inspections of all places where work is undertaken in connection with this Contract.

c. Work that is determined to be unsatisfactory according to the requirements of this Contract or inspections, shall be corrected by the Contractor within three (3) working days of notification by the Project COR unless such conditions are determined to be imminent hazards to persons or property that cannot be deferred. In the case of imminent hazards, corrective work must be performed within twenty-four (24) hours.

d. Correction of unsatisfactory work shall be at the Contractor's sole expense. If the Contractor is unable to complete identified corrective work within three (3) working days or, in the case of imminent hazards, shorter designated period, the Government reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to assign the work to an alternate Contractor and bill all costs…