W911SA-20-Q-3020_Amendment_1.docx

W911SA20Q3020

SECTION SF 30 BLOCK 14 CONTINUATION PAGE

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

SECTION SF 1449 - CONTINUATION SHEET

The following have been added by full text:

RESPONSE TO VENDOR QUESTIONS

1. Question: At Ft. Sheridan and Lake Forest locations, there are fences that have bushes growing by and into the fence. These areas look like they have not been maintained. Will that work be a part of the Type 1 scope or bid as a separate project or initial clean up?

Answer: Yes, this work will be part of the Type 1 pricing.

2. Question: At the Fort Sheridan and Lake Forest locations, there are low hanging trees throughout the properties and hanging over and in the fences below, at and above 7’. In the PWS, section 5.3.1 Spring and Fall Clean Up, it states branches up to 8 inches in diameter shall be pruned to a height of not less than 7 feet above grade , and shall be removed by the Contractor when fallen, dead, or broken. Are we responsible to bring these areas back up to standard and if so, where do we price these items?

Answer: Those areas were not maintained on the previous contract. The Contractor awarded this contract is responsible to bring these areas back up to standard IAW with the current PWS. Pricing for this should be included for each year within CLINS X002 Sprin/ Fall Cleanup.

3. Question: According to the PWS, 5.2.1.5 Unwanted Vegetation: Unwanted vegetation such as bushes growing adjacent to building, between cracks and joints in sidewalks, driveways or other hard surfaces shall be mechanically removed so that the grounds maintain a neat and clean appearance. Throughout some the locations, there are gravel areas that have vegetation growing throughout it. There is also a long abandoned sidewalk at the Fort Sheridan location that has areas missing concrete and has not been maintained to this standard. Are these areas exempt from the above standard and if so are there any other areas like this? Again, if these areas are included will the contractor be responsible for bringing them up to standard and where will that pricing go? Please clarify the PWS as it refers to “bushes growing adjacent to building”. In the a bushes growing adjacent to a building and are not trimmed or maintained like the others, would these qualify for removal or is the PWS referring to little sucker trees and that sort of thing? (The images are seen in Attachment 7: Images for Vendor Questions)

Answer: These areas are not exempt. They need to be brought up to the standard per the PWS. Pricing will be included as stated in the PWS in Type 1 pricing. Bushes at the IL035 location next to the building should be removed.

4. Question: There is a turf area outside the fence along Sheridan Rd. at the Lake Forest location that is currently being mowed by the incumbent but is not shown on the map as Type 1 mowing area. Should it be? At this same location there are additional unmaintained areas that do not appear on the map.

Answer: The area outside the fence at the IL035 location shall be mowed up to the street.

5. Question: There are areas that appear to have had mulch in them but no longer do for some reason. Will the landscaped areas included in the spring and fall clean-up be maintained by the government with mulch or rock?

Answer: The Government is eliminating mulch from these locations to alleviate it from being a reoccuring purchase. The Government will not maintain these areas nor will they require the Contractor to replace the mulch. The weeds need to be maintained in this area by the Contractor awarded this requirement.

6. Question: 5.2.1.4 PWS Trimming Fence Lines: Grass brush, weeds and other vegetation growing within 5’ (feet)of both sides of fence lines, as identified on the drawing(s) , shall be maintained to the height of the specified mowing type or to grade if over a paved or otherwise non-grassy area. Areas that cannot be mowed shall be mechanically removed to appropriate height. The maps do not designate the 5’ area on the outside of the perimeter fence lines to be maintained primarily on the exterior boundary fence lines. The inner fence lines are designated on the maps. Please clarify whether the outside of the perimeter fence lines are to be maintained at the 5’ or should this be on the maps.

Answer: The 5’ area on the outside of the fence does not need to be maintained by the Contractor. The trees overhanging the fence shall be trimmed as stated in the PWS.

7. Question: At Fort Sheridan there are large areas (spoils piles) that appear to be rough cut and some include rocks and debris. These areas are designated as Type 1 areas on the map. Please clarify if they are Type 1 mowing areas.

Answer: This area will be seeded in the spring on another contract. The Contractor shall maintain the area as stated in the PWS and drawings.

The following have been modified:

PWS

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

Version 1.5; 18 JAN 2019

IL177 GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

PART 1

GENERAL INFORMATION

1. General: This is a non-personnel services contract to provide grounds maintenance services as defined in this Performance Work Statement (PWS) at Army Reserve facility IL177 located at IL035, 401 Anderson Rd Lake Forest, IL 60037-1292, IL068, 9899 Gregory Rd., Machesney Park, IL 61115-8001. IL131, 3155 Blackhawk Dr. Fort Sheridan, IL 60037-1289. The Government will not exercise any supervision or control over the contract service providers performing the services herein. Such contract service providers shall be accountable solely to the Contractor who, in turn is responsible to the Government.

1.1 Description of Services/Introduction: The Contractor shall provide all personnel, labor, equipment, supplies, transportation, tools, materials, supervision, and other items and non-personal services necessary to perform grounds maintenance services as defined in the Performance Work Statement except for those items specified as government furnished property and services. The contractor shall perform to the standards in this contract.

1.2 Background: The 88th Army Reserve Readiness Division (RD) was established and sited in 2006 at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin. The command supports approximately 50,000 Soldiers in 19 states to provide the best in class base operations support for Soldiers in the Northwest region.

1.3 Objectives: The objective of this contract is for the contractor to perform necessary grounds maintenance services in a manner that will maintain satisfactory lawn, tree, shrub, and other exterior flora in a condition that presents a clean, neat, and professional appearance as defined in the Performance Work Statement.

1.4 Scope: The Contractor shall be responsible for performing lawn maintenance, aeration, fertilization, weed control, and general spring and fall cleanup. The contractor shall perform to the standards and specifications outlined in the PWS. Note that any drawings or maps provided to the Contractor, either before or after the contract is awarded, are for reference purposes only and may not be to scale. Any square footage, or other measurement provided, may be an approximation. It is the sole responsibility of the Contractor to determine or verify the actual site conditions and measurements.

0. Period of Performance: The period of performance shall be for one (1) Base Period and four (4) 12-month option periods. Active performance periods of eight (8) months are from April through November of each year. Non-active performance period will be from December through March of each year. Exception: Spring clean-up may be performed 2 weeks prior to the start of the active performance period and Fall clean-up may be completed 2 weeks after the end of the active performance period.

1.6 General Information:

1.6.1 Quality Control: Quality Control is the responsibility of the contractor. The contractor is responsible for the delivery of quality services/supplies to the Government (see FAR 52.212-4, Contractor Inspection Requirements). A formal Quality Control Plan (QCP) is not required for this commercial service. However, the contractor shall maintain an inspection system commensurate with commercial practices to ensure the Contractor only tenders for acceptance those items or services that conform to the requirements of this contract.

1.6.2 Quality Assurance: The Contracting Officer Representative (COR) will evaluate the contractor’s performance under this contract in accordance with the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). This plan is a Government only document focused on what the COR must do to assure that the contractor has performed in accordance with the performance requirements within this PWS.

1.6.2.1 Non-conforming Services: When a contractor’s performance is identified as unsatisfactory (e.g. does not meet contract PWS requirements and/or work schedules and/or timeframes) it is considered a non-conformance. The contractor shall reply within the specified timeframe upon receipt of a non-conformance report (NCR) from the COR or Contracting Officer (KO). Non-conformance shall be classified in one of three categories:

1.6.2.1.1 Level I (Minor) non-conformance: is defined as a non-conformance that is a departure from established standards having little bearing on the effective use or operation of the services. Minor non-conformance usually can be corrected by the contractor within a short timeframe, where no further corrective action (CA) response is necessary, and can be issued by the COR to the contractor either through a verbal or written NCR. Minor non-conforming services shall be re-performed within a specified time frame at no increase in contract price. If minor non-conformances are recurring or re-performance is not completed in full and within the specified time a Level II non-conformance may be issued to the contractor by the KO.

1.6.2.1.2 Level II (Major) non-conformance: is defined as a non-conformance, other than critical, that is likely to result in failure of services, or to materially reduce the usability of the services for their intended purpose, or it is a recurring Minor non-conformances, or a non-responsive contractor indicating a trend or failure of the contractor’s quality control. Major non-conformance’s shall result in the issuance of a written NCR from the KO to the contractor requiring a response by the contractor by a specified timeframe identifying the reasons for the unsatisfactory performance, corrective action(s) taken and date resolution has/will occur, and procedures to preclude recurrence of unsatisfactory performance. The KO may also reduce the payment to the contractor in accordance with (IAW) the performance requirements summary (PRS), or reduce payment to reflect the value of the services performed if re-performance is not possible, or may have the identified non-conforming service performed and charge the contractor for any related cost incurred.

1.6.2.1.3 Level III (Critical) non-conformance: is defined as a non-conformance that is likely to result in hazardous or unsafe conditions for individuals using, maintaining, or depending upon the services; is likely to prevent performance of a vital agency mission; is for a repeated or uncorrected level II NCR’s; or is for a non-responsive contractor to a level II NCR. Critical non-conformance’s shall result in the issuance of a written NCR from the KO to the contractor requiring a response by the contractor by a specified timeframe identifying the reasons for the unsatisfactory performance, corrective action(s) taken and date resolution has/will occur, and procedures to preclude recurrence of unsatisfactory performance. The KO may also reduce the payment to the contractor IAW the PRS, or reduce payment to reflect the value of the services performed if re-performance is not possible, or may have the identified non-conforming service performed and charge the contractor for any related cost incurred.

1.6.2.2 The contractor will be notified of Government inspection results within 5 business days. The contractor shall acknowledge receipt of the inspection results via email or letter within 2 business days. The contractor may be notified of inspection results verbally or via email. Verbal notifications of defective work will be confirmed in writing. When Government inspectors are unable to contact the contractor to notify the contractor of inspection results, acceptance or rejection of work will be made on the basis of the initial inspection.

1.6.3 Performance Evaluation Meetings: The Contractor Point of Contact (POC) shall meet with the COR prior to start of the contract. However, meetings may be held whenever deficiencies are noted by the COR. A mutual effort shall be made to resolve all problems identified.

1.6.4 Federal Government Holidays: Except as noted in the Schedule of Work, work shall not be performed on the following holidays or on holidays observed in lieu thereof. When required services occur on holidays, work will be performed on either the previous or following work day, unless specified otherwise.

1.6.5 Unforeseen Installation Closures: When the Government facility is closed due to local or national emergencies, administrative closings, or similar Government directed facility closing; the Contractor will be notified by the COR of an installation closure. The Contractor will not be reimbursed when the government facility is closed for the above reasons. The Contractor must at all times maintain an adequate workforce for the uninterrupted performance of all tasks defined within this PWS when the Government facility is not closed for the above reasons. When hiring personnel, the Contractor shall keep in mind that the stability and continuity of the workforce are essential. When an unforeseen installation closure occurs on a regularly scheduled day of work, the Government shall have the following options:

1.6.5.1 To require the Contractor to perform the work on the following day unless the following day is a Saturday or Sunday and routine work is not scheduled for Saturday or Sunday.

1.6.5.2 To reschedule the work on any day satisfactory to both parties.

1.6.5.3 Hours of Operation: The Contractor shall normally perform work during normal duty hours, 7:30a.m. to 4:00p.m. Periodic work, such as tree pruning and Spring/Fall cleanup may be performed other than normal duty hours. Arrangements for work performed during other than normal duty hours shall be made with the COR or DR.

1.6.6 Key Control: The Contractor shall establish and implement methods of ensuring that all keys issued to the Contractor by the Government are not lost, or misplaced, and are not used by unauthorized persons. No keys issued to the Contractor by the Government shall be duplicated. NOTE: All references to keys include key cards.

1.6.6.1 In the event keys, other than master keys, are lost or duplicated, the Contractor shall, upon direction of the KO, re-key or replace the affected lock or locks; however, the Government, at its option, may replace the affected lock or locks or perform re-keying. When the replacement of locks or re-keying is performed by the Government, the total cost of re-keying or the replacement of the lock or locks shall be deducted from the monthly payment due the Contractor. In the event a master key is lost or duplicated, all locks and keys for that system shall be replaced by the Government and the total cost deducted from the monthly payment due the Contractor.

1.6.6.2 The Contractor may be required to replace, re-key or reimburse the Government for replacement of locks or re-keying as a result of Contractor losing keys. In the event a master key is lost or duplicated, all locks and keys for that system shall be replaced by the Government and the total cost deducted from the monthly payment due.

1.6.6.3 The Contractor shall report the occurrences of a lost key immediately to the COR no later than the next business day.

1.6.6.4 It is the responsibility of the Contractor to prohibit the use of keys issued by the Government by any persons other than the Contractor’s employees. It is also the responsibility of the Contractor to prohibit the opening of locked areas by the Contractor’s employees to permit entrance of persons other than Contractor’s employees engaged in the performance of assigned work in those areas.

1.6.6.5 Lock Combinations; the Contractor shall establish and implement methods of ensuring that all lock combinations are not revealed to unauthorized persons. The Contractor shall ensure that lock combinations are changed when personnel having access to the combinations no longer have a need to know such combinations.

1.6.7 Conservation of Utilities: The Contractor shall be directly responsible for instructing employees in utilities conservation practices. The Contractor shall be responsible for operating under conditions, which preclude the waste of utilities, which shall include but shall not necessarily be limited to:

1.6.7.1 Lights shall be used only in areas where and at the time when work is actually being performed.

1.6.7.2 Mechanical equipment controls for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems shall not be adjusted by contracted workers.

1.6.7.3 Water faucets or valves shall be turned off after the required usage has been accomplished.

1.6.7.4 Government telephones shall be used by Contractor employees only for emergencies.

1.6.8 Damages Caused by the Contractor: The Contractor shall be held accountable and liable to the Government for any damages to Government facilities, furnishings, equipment or grounds caused by the Contractor or his employees. The Contractor shall instruct his employees to immediately inform the building manager or DR of any damages to property resulting from the performance of their duties.

1.6.9 Parking for Contractor’s Employees & Contractor Vehicles: Contractor employees shall park their personal and Contractor’s vehicles during the times and in the area designated by the COR or DR.

1.6.10 Circumstances to Be Reported: The Contractor or the Contractor’s employees shall report any circumstances of needed repair of the facility or unusual soiling of an area which may affect the performance of the work, present unhealthy or hazardous conditions, or create any delays or interference with the work caused by the employees of the Government. Such report shall be made immediately upon discovery by the Contractor to the COR or DR.

1.6.11 Hazardous Materials: The Contractor shall maintain onsite and have readily available an inventory listing of all hazardous materials used onsite. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) will be maintained and readily available for any chemicals or hazardous materials used onsite. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to properly train his personnel on the existence and safe use and storage of chemicals and hazardous materials.

1.6.12 Loss of Contractor Property: If applicable, the Contractor shall be responsible to retain supplies and equipment within each building, in a safe and secure manner. Storage rooms shall be kept clean. The Government will not be held liable for any loss of supplies or equipment owned by the Contractor; nor the loss of any personal property belonging to employees of the Contractor.

1.6.13 Post Award Conference/Periodic Progress Meetings: The Contractor agrees to attend any post award conference convened by the contracting activity or contract administration office in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation Subpart 42.5, Post Award Orientation. The Contracting Officer, COR, and other Government personnel, as appropriate, may meet periodically with the contractor to review the contractor's performance. At these meetings the Contracting Officer, COR, or DR will apprise the contractor of how the government views the Contractor's performance and the contractor will apprise the Government of problems, if any, being experienced. Appropriate action shall be taken to resolve outstanding issues. These meetings shall be at no additional cost to the Government.

1.6.14 Contracting Officer Representative (COR): The COR will be identified by a separate letter and in the Supplemental Information of the contract. The COR monitors all technical aspects of the contract and assists in contract administration. The COR is authorized to perform the following functions: assure that the Contractor performs the technical requirements of the contract; perform inspections necessary in connection with contract performance; maintain written and oral communications with the Contractor concerning technical aspects of the contract; issue written interpretations of technical requirements, including Government drawings, designs, and specifications; monitor Contractor's performance and notify both the Contracting Officer and Contractor of any deficiencies; coordinate availability of Government furnished property. A letter of designation issued to the COR, a copy of which is sent to the Contractor, states the responsibilities and limitations of the COR, especially with regard to changes in cost or price, estimates or changes in delivery dates. The COR is not authorized to change any of the terms and conditions of the resulting order.

1.6.15 Key Personnel: The following personnel are considered key personnel by the government: designated Point Of Contact (POC) and an alternate Point of Contact: The Contractor shall provide a designated POC who shall be responsible for the competent performance of the work required under the specifications of this contract NLT 5 business days after contract award and as changes occur. The name and contact information of the POC and an alternate, who shall act for the contractor when the POC is absent, shall be designated in writing to the COR. The POC or alternate shall have full authority to act for the contractor on all contract matters relating to daily operation of this contract. The POC or alternate shall be available between 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday except Federal holidays or when the government facility is closed for administrative reasons. The POC(s) and alternates shall be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.

1.6.15.1 The POC shall meet with COR to discuss immediate problems areas. The POC shall respond by phone or email to the COR within two (2) hours after notification of deficiencies and correct the deficiency(s) the next business day. The Contractor shall provide the telephone number and email of the POC to the COR.

1.6.16 Identification of Contractor Employees: The Contractor (to include subcontractors) shall provide each employee an Identification (ID) Badge, which includes at a minimum, the Company Name, Employee Name and a recent color photo of the employee, prior to them entering Government facilities. ID Badges for Key Personnel shall also indicate their job title. ID Badges shall be worn at all times during which the employee is performing work under this contract. Each Contractor (to include subcontractors) employee shall wear the ID Badge in a conspicuous place on the front of exterior clothing and above the waist except when safety or health reasons prohibit. The Contractor (to include subcontractors) shall be responsible for collection of ID Badges upon completion of the contract or termination of employee. A listing of issued identification cards shall be furnished to the COR prior to the listed employees entering Government facilities and updated as needed to reflect Contractor and Subcontractor personnel changes. All contract personnel attending meetings, answering Government telephones, and working in other situations where their Contractor status is not obvious to third parties are required to identify themselves as such to avoid creating an impression in the minds of members of the public that they are Government officials. They must also ensure that all documents or reports produced by contractors are suitably marked as contractor products or that contractor participation is appropriately disclosed.

1.6.17 Supervision of Contractor Employees: The Government will not exercise any supervision or control over Contractor or subcontractor employees while performing work under the contract. Such employees shall be accountable solely to the Contractor, not the Government. The Contractor, in turn, shall be accountable to the Government for Contractor or Subcontractor employees.

1.7 Antiterrorism (AT) and Operations Security (OPSEC).

1.7.1 AT Level I Training. All contractor employees, to include subcontractor employees, requiring access to Army installations, facilities and controlled access areas shall complete AT Level I awareness training within 30 calendar days after contract start date, new employee hire, or effective date of incorporation of this requirement into the contract, whichever is applicable. The contractor shall submit certificates of completion for each affected contractor employee and subcontractor employee, to the COR or to the contracting officer, if a COR is not assigned, within 60 calendar days after completion of training by all employees and subcontractor personnel. AT level I awareness training is available at the following website: http://jko.jten.mil

1.7.2. Access and general protection/policy and procedures. Contract personnel will be escorted at all times when working inside a Motor Equipment Park (MEP) and when accessing Army Reserve buildings.

1.7.3 iWATCH Training. All Contractor employees, including subcontractor employees, to be briefed on the local iWATCH program (training standards provided by the requiring activity Anti-terrorism Officer (ATO). This local developed training will be used to inform employees of the types of behavior to watch for and instruct employees to report suspicious activity to the COR. This training to be completed within 30 calendar days of Award and within 30 calendar days of new employees commencing performance with the results reported to the COR no later than 60 calendar days after Award.

1.7.4 Activity Regulations for Contractor Access and Use of Premises

1. Follow all current Army Security Regulations concerning strict visitor control and preservation of all Government assets. Immediately report all security concerns to the COR, who will notify the Security Office.

2. The Contractor shall adhere to requirements as directed in Federal Acquisition Regulation – 52.222-54; Employment Eligibility Verification. Contractors shall be enrolled in the Department of Homeland Security E-Verify Program. Information on registration for and use of the E-Verify program can be obtained via the Internet at the Department of Homeland Security Web site: http://www.dhs.gov/E-Verify.

3. The Contractor shall ensure that its employees entering Army-controlled installations or facilities have obtained access badges and passes in accordance with facility regulations and that these badges and passes are obtained in advance so as not to delay the accomplishment of contracted services.

4. The Contractor shall comply with all personnel identity verification procedures. Employees must be accompanied by an authorized Government employee at all times while providing services in secure areas.

5. During Force Protection Conditions (FPCON) Charlie and Delta, services are discontinued and services shall resume when the FPCON level is reduced to level Bravo or lower.

1.7.5 Lost and Found Property: It is the responsibility of the Contractor to ensure that all items of possible personal or monetary value found by the Contractor’s employees are turned in to the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) or DR.

PART 2

DEFINITIONS & ACRONYMS

2. Definitions and Acronyms:

2.1 Definitions: As used throughout this performance work statement, the following terms shall have the meaning set forth below:

2.1.1 Business Day: Shall mean any day banking transactions can be conducted in New York City, NY, USA and does not include any day which is a federal or state holiday in such location.

2.1.2 Contract Administrator. The official Government representative delegated authority by the Contracting Officer to administer a contract. This individual is normally a member of the appropriate Contracting/Procurement career field and advises on all technical contractual matters.

2.1.3 Contractor. A supplier or vendor awarded a contract to provide specific supplies or services to the government. The term used in this contract refers to the prime.

2.1.4 Contracting Officer (KO). A person with the authority to enter into, administer, and/or terminate contracts, and make related determinations and findings on behalf of the government. Note: The KO is the only individual who can legally bind the Government.

2.1.5 Contracting Officer's Representative (COR). An employee of the U.S. Government appointed by the KO to administer the contract. Such appointment shall be in writing and shall state the scope of authority and limitations. This individual has authority to provide technical direction to the Contractor as long as that direction is within the scope of the contract, does not constitute a change, and has no funding implications. Note: This individual does NOT have authority to change the terms and conditions of the contract.

2.1.6 Cultivated Areas. Any area of earth within the boundaries of the facility that has been improved or intentionally planted such as: mulched areas, flower beds, hedge rows, or parking lot green spaces.

2.1.7 Defective Service. A service output that does not meet the standard of performance associated with the PWS.

2.1.8 Deliverable. Anything that can be physically delivered, but may include non-manufactured things such as meeting minutes or reports.

2.1.9 Designated Representative. A Government employee or Contractor employee performing duties in the position of Area Facility Operations Specialist (aFOS), Facility Coordinator (FC) or Acting Facility Coordinator or otherwise approved by the COR to assist the COR with duties such as coordinating schedules with Contractors to perform work at a facility, provide facility access to Contractors, and perform inspection of Contractor’s work and provide results of their inspections back to the COR, both orally and in writing. A Designated Representative does not have the authority to assign work to Contractors or discuss Contractor performance issues; but may discuss these issues with the COR for potential further action. The only individuals with the authority to discuss Contractor performance issues are warranted Contracting Officers and Contracting Officer Representatives specifically delegated this authority by a warranted KO via an appointment letter.

2.1.10 Government-Furnished Property (GFP), Government-Furnished Equipment (GFE), or Government-Furnished Facility (GFF). Property or area in the possession of, or directly acquired by, the Government and subsequently made available to the Contractor.

2.1.11 His/Her. Wherever used in the Performance Work Statement, the term “his” is meant to be synonymous with “her” unless otherwise stated. The same shall be true for him and her.

2.1.12 Key Personnel. Contractor personnel that are evaluated in a source selection process and that may be required to be used in the performance of a contract by the Key Personnel listed in the PWS. When key personnel are used as an evaluation factor in best value procurement, an offer can be rejected if it does not have a firm commitment from the persons that are listed in the proposal.

2.1.13 Mechanically remove (vegetation). Means utilizing physical activity to remove or inhibit the growth of unwanted vegetation. Mechanical, or manual, vegetation control techniques manage vegetation populations through physical methods that remove, injure, kill, or make the growing conditions unfavorable. Some of these methods cause direct damage to unwanted vegetation through complete removal or causing a lethal injury. Other techniques, such as trimming to the height of desirable vegetation (generally grass or turf), may alter the growing environment by increasing the temperature of the soil and depriving the plants of carbon dioxide or oxygen. Mechanical control techniques shall be selective so as to have a minimal impact on non-targeted (desirable) vegetation.

2.1.14 Physical Security. Actions that prevent the loss or damage of Government property.

2.1.15 Policing (of Facility). Means to remove loose or wind-blown litter, debris, dead tree branches, brush, and leaves from all readily accessible grounds and parking areas.

2.1.16 Quality Assurance. The government procedures to verify that services being performed by the Contractor are acceptable in accordance with established standards and requirements of this contract.

2.1.17 Quality Assurance Specialist. An official Government representative concerned with matters pertaining to the contract administration process and quality assurance/quality control. Acts as technical advisor to the Contracting Officer in these areas.

2.1.18 Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). An organized written document specifying the surveillance methodology to be used for surveillance of contractor performance.

2.1.19 Quality Control. All necessary measures taken by the Contractor to assure that the quality of an end product or service shall meet contract requirements.

2.1.20 Subcontractor. One that enters into a contract with a prime contractor. The Government does not have privity of contract with the subcontractor.

2.1.21 Work Day. The number of hours per day the Contractor provides services in accordance with the contract.

2.1.22 Work Week. Monday through Friday, except for Federal holidays unless specified otherwise.

2.2. Acronyms:

PART 3

GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT, AND FACILITIES

3. Government Furnished Items: There will be no Government Furnished Property (GFP), Government Furnished Equipment (GFE), or Government Furnished Facilities (GFF) provided under this contract.

PART 4

CONTRACTOR FURNISHED ITEMS AND SERVICES

4. Contractor Furnished Items: The Contractor shall furnish all personnel, labor, materials, supplies, tools, labor, equipment, transportation, supervision, and services needed to perform this contract and meet the requirements of the PWS.

4.1 Materials: The Contractor shall furnish all materials necessary to perform the tasks specified in Section 5.

4.2 Equipment & Tools: The Contractor shall furnish all equipment and tools necessary to properly perform the work defined in this contract.

4.2.1 All equipment shall have bumpers and guards to prevent marking or scratching of trees, shrubbery, fixtures, utilities, or building surfaces.

4.2.2 All electrical equipment used by the Contractor shall meet all OSHA safety requirements and shall be UL approved. This equipment must operate using existing building circuits. It shall be the responsibility of the Contractor to prevent the operation or attempted operation of electrical equipment, or combinations of equipment, which require power exceeding the capacity of existing building circuits.

PART 5

SPECIFIC TASKS

5. Specific Tasks:

5.1 Scope: The Contractor shall be responsible for performing lawn maintenance, aeration, fertilization, weed control, and general spring and fall cleanup. It is anticipated that during the course of this contract there will be workload increases and decreases. Payment will only be made by the Government for services ordered, received, and accepted at the prices specified in the contract. The contractor shall perform to the standards and specifications outlined in the PWS.

5.1.1 Use of herbicides: the contractor shall not use any chemicals in the performance of this contract with the exception Paragraph 5.3.5 and 5.6, with the prior approval of the COR through the 88th RD Pest Manager.

5.1.2 Trimming Fence Lines: Grass, brush, weeds and other vegetation growing within 5' (feet) of both sides of fence lines, as identified on the drawing(s), shall be maintained to a height of two 2" to five 5" (inches) above the surface or to grade if over a paved or otherwise non-grassy area. Areas that cannot be mowed shall be mechanically removed to appropriate height.

5.1.3 Unwanted Vegetation: Unwanted vegetation such as bushes growing adjacent to building, between cracks and joints in sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, other hard surfaces, or otherwise non-grassy area shall be mechanically removed so that the facility maintains a neat and clean appearance.

5.2 Lawn Maintenance

5.2.1 Type One (I) Lawn Maintenance

5.2.1.1 Mowing: Grass areas, including weeds and small trees or brush ½” inch in diameter or less, shall be maintained to a height of two 2” to five 5” (inches) above the surface of the soil free of skips, gaps, rutting, or scalping.

5.2.1.2 Edging: Vegetation around the edges of curbs, sidewalks, driveways, streets and other hard surfaces within or adjacent to the specified area shall not extend more than 2” (inches) onto the hard surface.

5.2.1.3 Trimming Around Fixed Objects: Grass, brush, weeds and other vegetation growing around or beside walls, fences, guy wires, poles, shrubs, tree trunks, foundations, fire hydrants, cultivated areas or any fixed object within the designated areas shall be maintained to the height of the specified mowing type. Areas that cannot be mowed shall be mechanically removed to appropriate height.

5.2.1.4 Trimming Fence Lines: Grass, brush, weeds and other vegetation growing within 5’ (feet) of both sides of fence lines, as identified on the drawing(s), shall be maintained to the height of the specified Mowing type or to grade if over a paved or otherwise non-grassy area. Areas that cannot be mowed shall be mechanically removed to appropriate height.

5.2.1.5 Unwanted Vegetation: Unwanted vegetation such as bushes growing adjacent to building, between cracks and joints in sidewalks, driveways or other hard surfaces shall be mechanically removed so that the grounds maintain a neat and clean appearance.

5.2.1.6 Grass Clippings: Visible grass clippings, windrows, clumps or any amount of cut grass dense enough to damage or destroy the underlying turf shall be removed after each mowing.

5.2.1.7 Trash Removal: Contractor shall ensure the area of lawn maintained is free of all visible trash and debris upon completion of lawn maintenance.

5.2.1.8 Pruning: Shrubs and vines shall be pruned as necessary to maintain growth within space limitations, to maintain or enhance the natural growth habit, or to eliminate diseased or damaged growth. Some species shall be trimmed appropriately to influence flowering and fruiting, or to improve vigor. Shrubs and vines must be trimmed as needed to permit unobstructed passage to residents or vehicles. Trimming near vehicular entry or exits shall be carried out to prevent sight restrictions. Shrubs shall be pruned to conform with the design concept of the landscape. Individual shrubs shall not be clipped into balled or boxed forms, except where specifically instructed. Vines shall be pruned to control growth and direction, and shall not be allowed to grow over windows, doors or other structural features, unless directed by the COR. Vines shall not be allowed to grow over the crowns of shrubs or trees.

5.2.2 Type Two (II) Lawn Maintenance

5.2.2.1 Mowing: Grass area, including weeds, and small trees or brush ½” inch in diameter or less shall be maintained to a height of 3” to 8” (inches) in height above the surface soil free of skips, gaps, rutting, or scalping.

5.2.2.2 Edging: Edges of curbs, sidewalks, driveways, streets and other hard surfaces within or adjacent to the specified area shall be trimmed if vegetation extends more than two inches onto the hard surface

5.2.2.3 Trimming Around Fixed Objects: Grass, brush, weeds and other vegetation growing around or beside walls, fences, guy wires, poles, shrubs, tree trunks, foundations, fire hydrants, cultivated areas or any fixed object within the designated areas shall be maintained to the height of the specified mowing type. Areas that cannot be mowed shall be mechanically removed to appropriate height.

5.2.2.4 Trimming Fence Lines: Grass, brush, weeds and other vegetation growing within five 5’ (feet) of both sides of fence lines, as identified on the drawing(s), shall be maintained to the height of the specified mowing type or to grade if over a paved or otherwise non-grassy area. Areas that cannot be mowed shall be mechanically removed to appropriate height.

5.2.2.5 Unwanted Vegetation: Unwanted vegetation such as bushes growing adjacent to building, between cracks and joints in sidewalks, driveways or other hard surfaces shall be mechanically removed so that the grounds maintain a neat and clean appearance.

5.2.2.6 Grass Clippings: Visible grass clippings, windrows, clumps or any amount of cut grass dense enough to damage or destroy the underlying turf shall be removed after each mowing.

5.2.2.7 Trash Removal: Contractor shall ensure the area of lawn maintained is free of all visible trash and debris upon completion of lawn maintenance.

5.2.3 Mowing Type Three (III)

5.2.3.1 Mowing: All vegetation (i.e. trees smaller than 3.5 inches in diameter, bushes, cattails, grasses, weeds, vines or other growths) shall be maintained to a height of six (6) to twelve (12) inches in height from the surface soil free of skips, gaps, rutting, or scalping.

5.2.3.2 Edging: Edges of curbs, sidewalks, driveways, streets and other hard surfaces within or adjacent to the specified area shall be trimmed if vegetation extends more than two inches onto the hard surface

5.2.3.3 Trimming Around Fixed Objects: Grass, brush, weeds and other vegetation growing around or beside walls, fences, guy wires, poles, shrubs, tree trunks, foundations, fire hydrants, cultivated areas or any fixed object within the designated areas shall be maintained to a height consistent with the specified mowing type. Areas that cannot be mowed shall be mechanically removed to appropriate height.

5.2.3.4 Trimming Fence Lines: Grass, brush, weeds and other vegetation growing within five (5) feet of both sides of fence lines, as identified on the drawing(s), shall be maintained to a height of the specified Mowing type or to grade if over a paved or otherwise non-grassy area. Areas that cannot be mowed shall be mechanically removed to appropriate height.

5.2.3.5 Unwanted Vegetation: Unwanted vegetation such as bushes growing adjacent to building, between cracks and joints in sidewalks, driveways or other hard surfaces shall be mechanically removed so that the grounds maintain a neat and clean appearance.

5.2.3.6 Grass Clippings: Visible grass clippings, windrows, clumps or any amount of cut grass dense enough to damage or destroy the underlying turf shall be removed after each mowing.

5.2.3.7 Trash Removal: Contractor shall ensure the area of lawn maintained is free of all visible trash and debris upon completion lawn of maintenance.

5.2.4 Mowing Type Four (IV)

5.2.4.1 The mowing of native grassland shall be done once per year and can ONLY occur during the period when the native plants are dormant. Depending on climate zone region, the dormant mowing period can be as long as 1 November through 15 April in the north such as Minnesota or as short as 20 November to 31 March such as in southern Kansas. Mowing occurs either in the late fall or early spring and would be determined in part by the effect the planting has on snow retention. If blowing snow is retained in the native plants minimizing accumulation in parking and sidewalk areas, then mowing should occur only in the spring. If there is no difference or snow is found to accumulate more in parking and sidewalk areas, then mowing should occur only in the fall. Mowing: All vegetation (i.e. trees smaller than 3.5 inches in diameter at the widest point, bushes, cattails, grasses, weeds, vines or other growths) should be mowed short, to a height no greater than 2". Plant litter from the mowed area needs to be widely dispersed, to less than 1" in depth. This is done in an effort to avoid creating a mulch layer capable of smothering the emerging plants in spring. A flail mower is most effective, but not necessary, in accomplishing the even distribution of mowed plant litter.

5.3 Spring and Fall Clean Up: Spring and Fall Clean Up, Aeration, Fertilizer Application and Broad Leaf Control: Spring clean-up shall be started no earlier than (NET) 2 weeks prior to the start of the active performance period; and shall be completed NLT May 1. Fall cleanup shall be started NET the third week in the last month of the active performance period; and be completed NLT 2 weeks after the end of the active performance period. Scheduling exceptions shall be coordinated with COR.

5.3.1 Spring and Fall Clean Up: Prune shrubs, bushes and trees according to species requirements in all Lawn Type areas. Unless directed otherwise, branches up to 8 inches in diameter shall be pruned to a height of not less than 7 feet above grade, and shall be removed by the Contractor when fallen, dead, or broken.

5.3.2 Spring and Fall Clean Up: Remove weeds and debris from existing mulch beds, cultivated areas, and flowerbeds.

5.3.3 Spring and Fall Clean Up: Remove all litter, debris, dead tree branches, brush, and leaves from the property.

5.3.4 Aeration - Type 1 Lawn Maintenance areas only: aerate once a year in the spring prior to applying fertilizer and broad leaf control.

5.3.5 Fertilizer Application and Broad Leaf Control - Type 1 Lawn Maintenance areas only: Applied one time annually, in the spring after aeration, provide fertilizer application and broad leaf control. Contractor shall complete and submit the 88th RD Universal Pest Management Application Reporting Form (see Section 7.1) and a copy of the container label for the completion of fertilizer /broadleaf control application and submitted with the invoice.

5.4 Spring, and Fall Clean Up: Initial, Spring and Fall Clean Up, Aeration, Fertilizer Application and Broad Leaf Control: Initial and Spring cleanup shall be performed no later than (NLT) May 1. Spring clean-up shall be started no earlier than (NET) 2 weeks prior to the start of the active performance period; and shall be completed NLT May 1. Fall cleanup shall be started NET than the third week in the last month of the active performance period; and be completed NLT 2 weeks after the end of the active performance period.

5.5 If listed on the Price Schedule, for the base year only, an Initial cleanup will be performed within the active period at the start of the contract within 60 days.

5.5.1 Initial Clean Up: The intent of the Initial cleanup is to provide additional funding one time at the start of the contract for additional cleanup work that may be required to restore grounds to the condition of the mowing type as shown in the drawing(s).

5.6 Policing of Facility: Prior to mowing, remove loose or wind-blown litter, debris, dead tree branches (up to 7 inches in diameter at the widest point, and up to 60 pounds), brush, and leaves from readily accessible grounds and parking areas.

5.7 Weed Control and maintenance of Rocked Areas: In all areas EXCEPT the solar array area, only mechanical removal shall be used for the weeds from rocked areas (aka: “xeriscape”). Remove all litter, debris, dead tree branches, brush, and leaves from rocked areas (xeriscape). In the solar array rocked area, in the spring and mid-summer, the Contractor shall use a general weed control herbicide (glysophate).