SSSI Area E_Amendment 7_Rev. Specs 32 93 00_EXTERIOR PLANTS.pdf

COASTAL STORM RISK MANAGEMENT - INTERIOR DRAINAGE AREA E POND SBE

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 1

PART 1 GENERAL

1.1 REFERENCES

SECTION 32 93 00

EXTERIOR PLANTS

01/22, CHG 3: 03/24

The publications listed below form a part of this specification to the extent referenced. The publications are referred to within the text by the basic designation only.

AMERICANHORT (AH)

ANSI/ANLA Z60.1 (2004) American Standard for Nursery Stock

ASTM INTERNATIONAL (ASTM)

ASTM C602 (2020) Agricultural Liming Materials

ASTM D4972 (2018) Standard Test Methods for pH of Soils

ASTM D5268 (2019) Topsoil Used for Landscaping Purposes

L.H. BAILEY HORTORIUM (LHBH)

LHBH (1976) Hortus Third

TREE CARE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (TCIA)

TCIA A300P1 (2017) ANSI A300 Part1: Tree Care Operations - Trees, Shrubs and Other Woody Plant Maintenance Standard Practices - Pruning

TCIA Z133 (2017) American National Standard for Arboricultural Operations - Pruning, Repairing, Maintaining, and Removing Trees, and Cutting Brush - Safety Requirements

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

DOA SSIR 42 (1996) Soil Survey Investigation Report No. 42, Soil Survey Laboratory Methods Manual, Version 3.0

1.2 RELATED REQUIREMENTS

Section 31 00 00 EARTHWORK, Section 32 92 19 SEEDING, and Section 32 05 33 LANDSCAPE ESTABLISHMENT applies to this section for pesticide use and plant establishment requirements, with additions and modifications herein.

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 2

1.3 SUBMITTALS

Government approval is required for submittals with a "G" or "S" classification. Submittals not having a "G" or "S" classification are for information only. When used, a code following the "G" classification identifies the office that will review the submittal for the Government.

Submit the following in accordance with Section 01 33 00 SUBMITTAL

PROCEDURES:

The General Contractor must submit the following Preconstruction Submittals for approval within ten (10) working days following the date in the Notice to Commence Work to the Contracting Officer:

SD-01 Preconstruction Submittals

List of Landscaping Subcontractors

Contractor shall provide List of Landscaping Subcontractors proposed for landscaping and associated restoration and Site Work must be approved by the Contracting Officer prior to start of Work. The Contractor shall submit at least three (3) alternative Subcontractors to the Contracting Officer for review and approval.

The Subcontractors proposed shall be evaluated on the following criteria, prioritized in descending order:

a. The landscape subcontractor shall have performed at least three (3) contracts that involved the restoration and/or creation of freshwater and tidal wetland systems. Additionally, the landscape contractor shall have performed at least three (3) contracts that involved the installation and maintenance of soil erosion and sediment control devices during construction of the project. The projects shall be at least three (3) years old and successful. A digital submission of photographs via CD will be acceptable. The contractor shall demonstrate the capacity to accomplish the Work in the required time including qualification of key personnel, experience in digging and transplanting field stock, experience with State or Federal Agencies, particularly with experience in conducting mitigation pursuant to USACE or NYSDEC requirements (experience with agencies such as DOT, State or National Parks, etc. would be also acceptable), and other references or experience deemed appropriate to obtaining approval.

Experience with agencies, such as the Department of Parks and Recreation, Central Park Conservancy, and the Botanic Gardens.

b. Demonstrated capacity to accomplish the Work in the required time including qualification of experienced foreman and key personnel.

c. Experience in digging and transplanting field stock.

List of Growers/Nurseries Removal

Contractor shall submit List of Growers/Nurseries Removal. List shall include ISA Certified Arborist or nurseryman experienced in tree pruning, tree protection during construction, and tree removal.

State Landscape Contractor's License

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 3

Time Restrictions and Planting Conditions

List of equipment, methods of operation, and methods for protection of existing vegetation

Planting Schedule; G, RO

Planting Schedule: Submit proposed planting schedule within one month of official Notice to Commence Work, indicating dates for each type of Landscape Work as specified in the Contract Drawings.

Included must be a schedule of nursery visits for Contracting Officer to tag plant material. Correlate from date of substantial completion. Once accepted, revise dates only as approved in writing by the Contracting Officer, after documentation of reasons for delays.

SD-03 Product Data

Composted Derivatives

Organic Mulch Materials

Gypsum

Mulch; G, RO

Fertilizer

Staking Material

Deer Protection Fence; G, RO

Erosion Control Materials; G, RO

Photographs; G, RO

SD-04 Samples

Manufacturer's Literature. Manufacturer's literature for all materials furnished shall be submitted with samples of same.

Goose Exclusion Fence Samples; G, RO

Mulch; G, RO

Submit one pint of mulch.

Topsoil

Submit one pint of Topsoil.

SD-06 Test Reports

Topsoil Composition Tests

SD-07 Certificates

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 4

Nursery Certifications

i. All necessary State, Federal and other inspection certificates as may be required by law.

ii. Two (2) copies to the Contracting Officer of manufacturers' or vendors' certified analysis for soil treatments and fertilizer materials shall be submitted with samples.

iii. Certification and guarantee that all plant material is true to name and in conformance with these specifications.

iv. The invoice or a written statement showing the size and grade of materials received or shipped, together with the source and health of the plant material. No plants shall be accepted that have been collected from property other than that owned or leased by a nursery.

v. Certification that all herbaceous plant material was grown from seed or stock collected from locally adapted ecotypes within a 250-mile radius of the Project Site.

SD-10 Operation and Maintenance Data

Watering, Weeding, and Maintenance Plan

Watering, weeding, and Maintenance Plan shall be in accordance with Section 32 92 19 SEEDING during the Guarantee Period.

1.4 General Requirements

1. All plants must be as specified as in the Contract Drawings. No substitutions will be permitted, except as authorized in writing by Contracting Officer. If specified landscape material is not obtainable, submit proof of non-availability to Contracting Officer, together with proposal for use of equivalent material appropriate for the project site.

2. The Contractor must comply with governing regulations applicable to wetland and landscape materials.

3. The Contractor must provide trees and plants of quantity, size, genus, species and cultivar/variety shown and scheduled in the Contract Drawings for landscape work and complying with recommendations and requirements of ANSI Z60.1 "American Standard for Nursery Stock" and the Manual of Vascular Plants of the Northeastern United States and Adjacent Canada.

4. The Contractor must provide healthy, vigorous stock, grown in a recognized nursery in accordance with good horticultural practice and free of disease, insects, eggs, larvae and defects such as knots, sun-scald, injuries abrasions, or disfigurement. Contractor must submit certification that wetland plants are procured at least six months prior to scheduled planting.

5. All plants furnished under this Item must be true to name. Plant names must agree with the nomenclature of Standardized Plant Names as adopted by the American Joint Committee on Horticultural Nomenclature, 1942 Edition. Size and grading must conform to those of the American Association of Nurserymen. All wetland plants must come from within a 250-mile radius of the project site.

6. Utilities. The Contractor must determine location of underground utilities and perform work in a manner which will avoid possible damage.

Hand excavate, as required. Maintain grade stakes set by others until

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 5 removal is approved by the Contracting Officer.

7. Excavation. When conditions detrimental to plant growth are encountered, such as rubble fill, adverse draining conditions, phragmites rhyzomes, or obstructions, notify the Contracting Officer.

8. All existing landscape features including trees, shrubs, perennial, meadows, lawns, wetlands, paving, walls, stairs, etc. must be protected by the Contractor, using methods approved by the Contracting Officer prior to start of work.

9. Preservation and Restoration of Existing Trees and Shrubs.

a. In order to avoid surface and subsurface root damage and soil compaction, the Contractor must not be permitted to stockpile materials of any nature under the drip line of existing trees and shrubs. This directive must apply to all areas within or outside the Contract limit line.

b. The Contractor must assume the responsibility for any remedial work such as root and top pruning required and/or necessary to prevent loss of plant material when this article is violated or when trees or shrubs are injured by construction equipment at Contractor's own expense.

c. Compensatory pruning and fertilizing of existing trees and shrubs must be performed to compensate for damage of roots incurred at Contractor's own expense. Fertilize in areas around undamaged roots only and not adjacent to the trunk or main stem.

Fertilizer must be applied in the fall unless otherwise approved by Contracting Officer.

d. No existing plants may be removed, except as specifically required by this Contract or as specified on Contract Documents, or as specifically approved in writing by the Contracting Officer. Any areas or items of existing landscape which are removed or damaged must be replaced by the Contractor at the Contractor's own expense. The Contractor must match the existing condition prior to damage or as directed by the Contracting Officer.

1.5 QUALITY ASSURANCE

1.5.1 Source Quality Control

If private nursery sources are used, they must be within a 250-mile radius of the planting site. All specified plants must have also been grown in the same USDA climatic zone as that of the planting site.

All seed and original stock material for herbaceous plants must have been collected from locally adapted ecotypes within a 250-mile radius of the project site. Plant material may have to be contract grown in order to meet this requirement. Nurseries which collect plants from the wild will be rejected. Seed and stock material sources must be submitted to the Contracting Officer to approval prior to approval.

No substitutions of specified plants will be accepted without prior approval of the Contracting Officer.

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 6

1.5.2 Topsoil Composition Tests

Commercial test from an independent testing laboratory including basic soil groups (moisture and saturation percentages, Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium (N-P-K) ratio, pH (ASTM D4972), soil salinity), secondary nutrient groups (calcium, magnesium, sodium, Sodium Absorption Ratio (SAR)), micronutrients (zinc, manganese, iron, copper), toxic soil elements (boron, chloride, sulfate), cation exchange and base saturation percentages, and soil amendment and fertilizer recommendations with quantities for plant material being transplanted. Soil required for each test must include a maximum depth of 18 inches of approximately one quart volume for each test. Areas sampled should not be larger than one acre and should contain at least 6-8 cores for each sample area and be thoroughly mixed. Problem areas should be sampled separately and compared with samples taken from adjacent non-problem areas. The location of the sample areas should be noted and marked on a parcel or planting map for future reference.

1.5.3 Nursery Certifications

Landscape material must be shipped with certificates of inspection when required by governmental authorities. Comply with governing regulations applicable to landscape material. On landscape material arrival, the certificates must be filed with the Contracting Officer. The Contracting Officer must receive a copy of each shipping invoice immediately after the delivery has arrived at the job site.

a. Indicate on nursery letterhead the name of plants in accordance with the LHBH, including botanical common names, quality, and size.

b. Inspection certificate.

c. Mycorrhizal fungi inoculum for plant material treated

1.5.4 State Landscape Contractor's License

Construction company must hold a landscape contractors license in the state where the work is performed and have a minimum of five years landscape construction experience. Submit copy of license and three references for similar work completed in the last five years.

1.5.5 Plant Material Photographs

Contractor must submit nursery photographs, for government approval prior to ordering, for each tree larger than 24-inch box/ 2-inch caliper size.

1.6 DELIVERY, STORAGE, AND HANDLING

1.6.1 Delivery

1.6.1.1 Branched Plant Delivery

a. Plants must be packed, transported, and handled with utmost care to insure adequate protection against injury. When transported in closed vehicles, plants must receive adequate ventilation to prevent sweating.

When transported in open vehicles, plants must be protected by tarpaulins or other suitable cover material. All plants plants must be adequately protected from drying out and immediately after inspection must be heeled

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 7 in moist soil. Balled and burlapped plants must be set on the ground and the ball covered with moist burlap, sawdust, wood chips, shredded bark, peat moss, or other approved material soil . Until planted, all material must be properly maintained and kept adequately moist, to the satisfaction of the Contracting Officer.

b. The Contractor must provide trees and plants of the stock type and quantities shown on the Contract Drawings. Do not prune prior to delivery unless otherwise approved by the Contracting Officer. Do not bend or bind-tie trees or plants in such a manner as to damage bark, break branches or destroy natural shape. Provide protective covering during delivery, and einsure that all balled and burlapped stock, container stock, tube stock, and/or bare root material is handled properly and is not dropped.

1.6.1.2 Packaged Material Delivery

Deliver packaged materials in unopened bags or containers, each bearing the name, warranty, and trademark of the producer and the composition, analysis and the weight of the material. Contractor must notify the Contracting Officer forty-eight (48) hours in advance of delivery of all plant material.

1.6.1.3 Plant Labels

Deliver plants with durable waterproof labels in weather-resistant ink.

Provide labels stating the correct botanical and common plant name and variety as applicable and size as specified in the list of required plants. Attach to plants, bundles, and containers of plants. Groups of plants may be labeled by tagging one plant. Labels must be legible for a minimum of 60 days after delivery to the planting site.

1.6.2 Storage

1.6.2.1 Plant Storage and Protection

Store and protect plants not planted on the day of arrival at the site as follows:

a. Shade and protect plants in outside storage areas from the wind and direct sunlight until planted.

b. Heel-in bare root plants.

c. Protect balled and burlapped plants from freezing or drying out by covering the balls or roots with moist burlap, sawdust, wood chips, shredded bark, peat moss, or other approved material. Provide covering which allows air circulation.

d. Keep plants in a moist condition until planted by watering with a fine mist spray.

e. Do not store plant material directly on concrete or bituminous surfaces.

1.6.2.2 Fertilizer, Gypsum, pH Adjusters and Mulch Storage

Store in dry locations away from contaminants. Fertilizer delivered to the job site must be in original, unopened containers bearing the

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 8 manufacturer's chemical analysis and essential information. Fertilizer containers must be protected from exposure to precipitation and direct sunlight.

1.6.2.3 Topsoil

Prior to stockpiling topsoil, eradicate on site undesirable growing vegetation. Excavated material containing Phragmites australis shall not be permitted to be reused. Clear and grub existing vegetation three to four weeks prior to stockpiling existing topsoil.

1.6.3 Handling

Do not drop or dump plants from vehicles. Avoid damaging plants being moved from nursery or storage area to planting site. Handle plants carefully to avoid damaging or breaking the earth ball or root structure.

Do not handle plants by the trunk or stem. Remove damaged plants from the site.

1.6.4 TIME LIMITATION

Except for container-grown plant material, the time limitation from digging to installing plant material must be a maximum of 90 days. The time limitation between installing the plant material and placing the mulch must be a maximum of 24 hours.

1.7 TIME RESTRICTIONS AND PLANTING CONDITIONS

1.7.1 Planting Dates

1.7.1.1 Deciduous Material

Deciduous material from March 15 to May 15th for spring planting and from October 15 to December 1st for fall planting.

1.7.1.2 Evergreen Material

Evergreen material from March 15th to May 15th for spring planting and from October 15th to December 1st for fall planting.

1.7.1.3 Wetland Herbaceous Material

Wetland herbaceous material from April 15 to June 30th for spring planting and from August 15th to September 15th for fall planting.

1.7.1.4 Upland Herbaceous Material

Upland herbaceous material from April 15 to June 30th for spring planting and from September 1st to October 15th for fall planting.

1.7.2 Restrictions

Do not plant when ground is frozen, snow covered, muddy, or when air temperature exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit

1.8 TWO GROWING SEASON PLANT GUARANTEE

All plants must be guaranteed for two consecutive growing seasons with a minimum 85% survival rate beginning on the date of inspection by the

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 9

Contracting Officer to commence the plant establishment period, against defects including death and unsatisfactory growth, except for defects resulting from lack of adequate maintenance, neglect, or abuse by the Government or by weather conditions unusual for the warranty period.

A growing season shall include 12 months from the time of each planting activity conducted in a specific location. The two consecutive growing seasons plant guarantee period must commence on the date of the completion of construction, and must end no earlier than October 15 on the second growing season.

The Contractor must, for a period of two (2) consecutive growing seasons beginning at the date of acceptance of the Landscaping work, cultivate, weed, mulch, prune, and water all trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants, vines, and permanent seeded areas under this Contract, to the satisfaction of the Contracting Officer. The Contractor must replace, according to the original specifications, any plant material which is dead or in a dying condition at the request of the Contracting Officer. A minimum 85% survival rate of all planted material must be met at the end of the guarantee period. The Contracting Officer must be the sole judge as to the condition of the plants. The guarantee and maintenance applies to all planted and grassed areas, meadows, paved and other landscaped areas.

Any plant material that is dead or not showing satisfactory growth, as determined by the Contracting Officer, must be promptly removed and replaced by the Contractor during the proper planting season as indicated in the Contract Documents. The replacement must be of the same variety, size and character as specified for the original planting. Unless a written waiver of this clause is issued, under the terms of the guarantee, replacement plants must be chosen only by the Contracting Officer. At end of warranty period, replace planting materials that die or have 25 percent or more of their branches that die during the construction operations or the guarantee period.

The approval of submitted plan(s) and schedule(s) do not relieve the Contractor in any way from any aspect of the replacement of dead plant material. The Contractor may alter the maintenance schedule based on weather and field conditions but must notify the Contracting Officer a minimum of 24-hours in advance.

PART 2 PRODUCTS

2.1 PLANTS

2.1.1 Regulations and Varieties

Furnish nursery stock in accordance with ANSI/ANLA Z60.1, except as otherwise specified or indicated. Each plant or group of planting must have a "key" number indicated on the nursery certifications of the plant schedule. Furnish plants, including turf grass, grown under climatic conditions similar to those in the locality of the project. . Plants of the same specified size must be of uniform size and character of growth.

All trees must be tagged on north side of tree for proper orientation when planting.

All plants must comply with all Federal and State Laws requiring inspection for plant diseases and infestation.

All containerized and balled and burlapped trees and shrubs must be freshly dug; neither heeled-in nor plants from cold storage will be accepted. All plants must have been transplanted or root pruned at least

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 10 once in the past three years.

All plants must conform to the measurements specified in the plant list on the Contract Drawings. All plants must be typical of their species and

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 11 must have a normal, healthy habit of growth and be of first quality, sound, vigorous, well-branched and densely foliated. Plants that meet the requirements specified in the plant list, but that do not possess a normal balance between height and spread will not be accepted. No damaged or diseased plants will be accepted.

2.1.2 Shape and Condition

Well-branched, well-formed, sound, vigorous, healthy planting stock free from disease, sunscald, windburn, abrasion, and harmful insects or insect eggs and having a healthy, normal, and undamaged root system. There must be no abrasion of the bark, no fresh cuts of limbs over 1-1/4" which have not completely calloused over and have a heavy fibrous root system.

2.1.2.1 Deciduous Trees and Shrubs

Symmetrically developed and of uniform habit of growth, with straight boles or stems, and free from objectionable disfigurements.

2.1.2.2 Evergreen Trees and Shrubs

Well developed symmetrical tops with typical spread of branches for each particular species or variety. All evergreen trees must be heavy, symmetrical plants well-furnished to the ground. They may be multiple-stemmed. All evergreen trees must be free from winter injury and have a heavy fibrous root system.

2.1.2.3 Ground Covers and Vines

Number and length of runners and clump sizes indicated, and of the proper age for the grade of plants indicated, furnished in removable containers, integral containers, or formed homogeneous soil section.

2.1.3 Plant Size

Minimum sizes measured after pruning and with branches in normal position, must conform to measurements indicated, based on the average width or height of the plant for the species as specified in ANSI/ANLA Z60.1.

Plants larger in size than specified may be provided with approval of the Contracting Officer . When larger plants are provided, increase the ball of earth or spread of roots in accordance with ANSI/ANLA Z60.1.

2.1.4 Root Ball Size

All box-grown, field potted, field boxed, collected, plantation grown, bare root, balled and burlapped, container grown, processed-balled, and in-ground fabric bag-grown root balls must conform to ANSI/ANLA Z60.1.

All wrappings and ties must be biodegradable. Root growth in container grown plants must be sufficient to hold earth intact when removed from containers. Root bound plants will not be accepted.

2.1.4.1 Mycorrhizal fungi inoculum

Before shipment, root systems must contain mycorrhizal fungi inoculum.

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 12

2.1.5 Growth of Trunk and Crown

2.1.5.1 Deciduous Trees

A height to caliper relationship must be provided in accordance with ANSI/ANLA Z60.1. Height of branching must bear a relationship to the size and species of tree specified and with the crown in good balance with the trunk. The trees must not be "poled" or the leader removed.

a. Single stem: The trunk must be reasonably straight and symmetrical with crown and have a persistent main leader. Trees 4" caliper or less must be calipered six inches above ground. Trees greater than 4" caliper must be calipered one foot above ground.

b. Multi-stem: All countable stems, in aggregate, must average the size specified. To be considered a stem, there must be no division of the trunk which branches more than 6 inches from ground level.

2.1.5.2 Deciduous Shrubs

Deciduous shrubs must have the height and number of primary stems recommended by ANSI/ANLA Z60.1. Acceptable plant material must be well shaped, with sufficient well-spaced side branches, and recognized by the trade as typical for the species grown in the region of the project.

2.1.5.3 Coniferous Evergreen Plant Material

Coniferous Evergreen plant material must have the height-to-spread ratio recommended by ANSI/ANLA Z60.1. The coniferous evergreen trees must not be "poled" or the leader removed. Acceptable plant material must be exceptionally heavy, well shaped and trimmed to form a symmetrical and tightly knit plant. The form of growth desired must be as indicated.

2.1.5.4 Broadleaf Evergreen Plant Material

Broadleaf evergreen plant material must have the height-to-spread ratio recommended by ANSI/ANLA Z60.1. Acceptable plant material must be well shaped and recognized by the trade as typical for the variety grown in the region of the project.

2.1.5.5 Ground Cover and Vine Plant Material

Ground cover and vine plant material must have the minimum number of runners and length of runner recommended by ANSI/ANLA Z60.1. Plant material must have heavy, well developed and balanced crown with vigorous, well developed root system and must be furnished in containers.

2.2 TOPSOIL

2.2.1 Existing Soil

Modify to conform to requirements specified in paragraph COMPOSITION.

2.2.2 On-Site Topsoil

Surface soil stripped and stockpiled on site and modified as necessary to meet the requirements specified for topsoil in paragraph COMPOSITION.

When available topsoil must be existing surface soil stripped and stockpiled on-site in accordance with Section 31 00 00 EARTHWORK and 31 23

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 13

00.00 20 EXCAVATION AND FILL.

2.2.3 Off-Site Topsoil

Conform to requirements specified in paragraph COMPOSITION. Additional topsoil must be furnished by the Contractor.

2.2.4 Composition

Evaluate soil for use as topsoil in accordance with ASTM D5268. From 5 to 10 percent organic matter as determined by the topsoil composition tests of the Organic Carbon, 6A, Chemical Analysis Method described in DOA SSIR 42. Maximum particle size, 3/4 inch, with maximum 3 percent retained on 1/4 inch screen. The pH must be tested in accordance with ASTM D4972. Topsoil must be free of sticks, stones, roots, plants, and other debris and objectionable materials. Other components must conform to the following limits:

Nutrient Content: Magnesium, nitrogen, postassium, phosphorus levels, and soluable salts.

Range (PPM) Nutrient

4 - 8 Phosphorous (P)

66 - 100 Magneseium (Mg)

115 - 164 Protassium (K)

0.36 - 0.75 Boron (B)

0 - 49 Iron (Fe)

0.5 - 1.0 Zing (Zn)

85 - 120 Nitrogen (N)

Soluble salts shall be less than 2.5 millisemens.

Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon Content: Topsoil shall be tested for total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) by the Gravimetric-Hexane Method, as approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency. Topsoil shall contain less than 150 ppm total petroleum hydrocarbons. All soil testing positive shall be rejected and removed from the site.

Sieve Analysis: (By Wash Test, ASTM Designation C117)

The mechanical analysis of the soil shall be as follows:

Passing 2" sieve 100% Passing 1" sieve 95% to 100% Passing #4 sieve 90% to 100% Passing #100 sieve 30 % to 60%

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 14 pH 5.5 to 6.5

Soluble Salts 2.5 ppt maximum

Invasive, Nonnative Plant Species: Topsoil shall be free of invasive nonnative plant propagules or if present, topsoil shall be sterilized with documentation.

When topsoil otherwise complies with the requirements of the specifications but shows an organic matter deficiency of not more than one (1) percent, organic matter may be incorporated when and as permitted by the Contracting Officer.

The Contractor shall at the direction and discretion of the Contracting Officer, or when quantities exceed two hundred (200) cubic yards, furnish a certified report of an approved analytical chemist showing the analysis of representative samples of the topsoil which he/she proposes to use. All samples are to be taken by the Contracting Officer and delivered to the laboratory. The price bid shall include inspection and laboratory charges.

No topsoil shall be delivered until the approval of samples by the Contracting Officer, but such approval shall not constitute final acceptance. The Contracting Officer reserves the right to reject on or after delivery any material which does not, in his/her opinion, meet these specifications.

The Contracting Officer reserves the right to reject topsoil in which more than sixty (60) percent of the material passing the No. 100 U.S.S. mesh sieve consists of clay as determined by the Buoyoucous Hydrometer or by the decantation method. All percentages are to be based on dry weight of sample. If the Contracting Officer directs, topsoil which varies only slightly from the specifications may be made acceptable by such corrections as the Contracting Officer deems necessary.

2.3 SOIL CONDITIONERS

Provide singly or in combination as required to meet specified requirements for topsoil. Soil conditioners must be nontoxic to plants.

2.3.1 Lime

Commercial grade hydrated or burnt limestone containing a calcium carbonate equivalent (C.C.E.) as specified in ASTM C602 of not less than 80 percent.

2.3.2 Aluminum Sulfate

Commercial grade.

2.3.3 Sulfur

100 percent elemental

2.3.4 Iron

100 percent elemental

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 15

2.3.5 Sand

Clean and free of materials harmful to plants.

2.3.6 Perlite

Horticultural grade.

2.3.7 Composted Derivatives

Ground bark, nitrolized sawdust, humus or other green wood waste material free of stones, sticks, invasive species, including seeds, and soil stabilized with nitrogen and having the following properties:

2.3.7.1 Particle Size

Minimum percent by weight passing:

No. 4 mesh screen 95 No. 8 mesh screen 80

2.3.8 Gypsum

Coarsely ground gypsum comprised of calcium sulfate dihydrate 80 percent, calcium 18 percent, sulfur 14 percent; minimum 96 percent passing through 20 mesh screen, 100 percent passing thru 16 mesh screen.

2.4 PLANTING SOIL MIXTURES

Topsoil as specified above.2.5 FERTILIZER

2.5.1 Granular Fertilizer

Organic, granular controlled release fertilizer containing the following minimum percentages, by weight, of plant food nutrients:

Type A. 2-1-1 or 3-1-1 (approximate analysis). Minimum of 50% water insoluble nitrogen and with a salt index of less than 50.

Type B. 1-2-1 (approximate analysis) 50 % Organic/IBDU (Isobutydine diurea)/ or coated for slow release with a water in-soluble nitrogen

(WIN).

Type C. Nitrate of soda containing a minimum of 16% nitrogen or Ammonium sulfate containing a minimum of 20.5% nitrogen as appropriate to soil conditions.

Type D. Bonemeal shall be commercial steamed bonemeal, finely ground with a minimum of 1.0% nitrogen and a minimum of 20% phosphoric acid.

Type E. 13-0-0 (approximate analysis) shall be a commercial slow release organic nitrogen fertilizer such as blood meal

2.5.2 Fertilizer Tablets

Organic, plant tablets composed of tightly compressed fertilizer chips forming a tablet that is insoluble in water, is designed to provide a continuous release of nutrients for at least 24 months and contains the following minimum percentages, by weight, of plant food nutrients:

20 percent available nitrogen

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 16

20 percent available phosphorus 5 percent available potassium

2.6 MULCH

Free from noxious weeds, mold, pesticides, or other deleterious materials.

2.6.1 Organic Mulch Materials

Provide wood chips from site when available. Wood chips shall be derived from 100 % first generation hardwood or softwood. The chips shall be seasoned (aged a minimum of 1 year), free from leaves, young growth, unchipped branches, twigs 1 inch or greater in diameter, wood shavings, sawdust or foreign materials such as stones, nails, plastic, etc. Wood chips shall not exceed 3 inches in the greatest dimension.

2.7 STAKING MATERIAL

2.7.1 Staking Material

2.7.1.1 Tree Support Stakes

Rough sawn hard wood free of knots, rot, cross grain, bark, long slivers, or other defects that impair strength. Stakes must be minimum 2 inches square or 2-1/2 inch diameter by 8 feet long, pointed at one end..

2.8 EROSION CONTROL MATERIALS

Erosion control material must conform to the following:

2.8.1 Erosion Control Blanket

The Erosion Control Mat must meet the following requirements:

Netting One Side Only, Organic Leno Weave Jute, 100% Biodegradable 0.5" x 1.0" opening

Matrix 100% Agriculture Straw

0.55 lbs/yd2

298.4 g/m2

Thread 1.5" stitch space, 100% Biodegradable

Index Value Properties

Property Test Method Typical

Mass/Unit Area ASTM D6475 10.00 oz/sq.yd.

Thickness ASTM D6525 0.40 in

Tensile Strength-MD ASTM D6818 106 lb/ft

SECTION 32 93 00 Page 17

Property Test Method Typical

Elongation-MD ASTM D6818 16.7%

Tensile Strength-TD ASTM D6818 118 lb/ft

Elongation-TD ASTM D6818 26.8%

Light Penetration ASTM D6567 6%

Water Absorption ASTM D1117 322%

Unvegetated Shear Stress ASTM D6460 1.55 lbs/sq.ft.

Slope 3:1 or flatter

The Erosion Control Mat must be ECS-1B, by East Coast Erosion Blankets, Bernville, PA; BioNet S75BN by North American Green, Evansville, IN;

US-1SNN by L and M Supply Co., Pearson, GA; or approved equal.

Wire Staples must consist of 12-inch lengths of No. 11 gauge wire bent to form a "U" or other wire staples as approved.

2.8.2 Erosion Control Net

Net must be heavy, twisted jute mesh, weighing approximately 1.22 pounds per linear yard and 4 feet wide with mesh openings of approximately one inch square.

2.9 GOOSE EXCLUSION FENCE

Contractor must furnish, install, maintain and remove the Goose Exclusion Fence according to the Contract Drawings and the direction of the Contracting Officer. Contractor shall submit Goose Exclusion Fence Samples showing conformance with the requirements specified herein.

The fence must be a minimum of five (5) feet high above existing grade and the posts must be a non-tropical hardwood. The fence must completely enclose all planted areas so as to prevent geese from entering any newly planted site.

The Contractor must repair the fence as often as is necessary throughout the guarantee period. The Contractor must remove the entire fence at the end of the maintenance period, or as directed by the Contracting Officer.

2.9.1 Goose Exclusion Fence Materials

The Contractor must submit the following samples or the manufacturer's catalog cuts for approval ten (10) days before beginning work:

1. Non-tropical hardwood stakes (untreated). In salt or brackish water environments, posts must be oak.

2. The fencing must meet the following specifications:

a. Material: High density UV stabilized polyethylene plastic resin

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b. Height/length: 60"

c. Weight per roll: 20 lbs

d. Nominal mesh opening: 1"

e. Tensile strength (range): 900 - 1,000 lbs/ft

f. Elongation at Break (%): 20%

g. 1/4" sisal or jute twine or string

h. 1" metallic mylar

i. 1-1/2" galvanized roofing nails.

j. 2" galvanized staples.

k. 14" Nylon cable ties.

2.9.2 Installation of Goose Exclusion Fence

The goose fence must be installed by skilled laborers with proper tools and equipment for an aquatic environment within 1 day of completing each fifty (50) foot section of planting. Layout location of stakes according to the Contract Drawings. The Contractor must drive stakes so that they are level and 1' (min.) from the edge of proposed coir logs or wetland plugs. All broken or splintered stakes must be removed and replaced with new ones.

Install black bi-oriented utility fencing making sure that there is no space between the existing grade and the bottom of the fence. Fasten safety fence to stake by using 1-1/2" roofing nails. Close all gaps so that adjacent pieces of fence abut tightly together.

Attach twine or string to stakes as shown on the Contract Drawings. String must be pulled taught to reduce sagging. The string must alternate in and out of fence netting for increased stability of fence. Tie ten (10) inch strips of metallic (mylar) flagging along string every four feet. Work in one direction only. The Contractor must be responsible for removing the fence at the end of the guarantee period for the wetland plants, or at the direction of the Contracting Officer.

2.9.3 Measurement and Payment for Goose Exclusion Fence

The quantity to be measured for payment under this Section shall be the total number of linear feet of fence furnished, installed, maintained and accepted in accordance with the Plans and Specifications and the directions of the Contracting Officer.

The contract price per linear foot for Goose Exclusion Fence shall be as indicated on the BID SCHEDULE. The unit price per linear foot shall include all labor, materials, equipment and work incidental expenses necessary or required to complete the work in accordance with the plans and specifications and to the satisfaction of the Contracting Officer.

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2.10 WATER

Source of water to be approved by Contracting Officer and suitable quality for irrigation and must not contain elements toxic to plant life.

2.11 MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI INOCULUM

Mycorrhizal fungi inoculum must be composed of multiple-fungus inoculum as recommended by the manufacturer for the plant material specified.

2.12 SOURCE QUALITY CONTROL

The Contracting Officer will inspect plant materials at the project site and approve them. Tag plant materials for size and quality.

PART 3 EXECUTION

3.1 EXTENT OF WORK

Provide soil preparation, including soil conditioners and soil amendments prior to planting. Provide tree, shrub, vine, groundcover, seed, and sod planting, post-planting fertilizer, edging, staking, guying, erosion control material, installation, and mulch topdressing of all newly graded finished earth surfaces, unless indicated otherwise, and at all areas inside or outside the limits of construction that are disturbed by the Contractor's operations.

3.2 PREPARATION

3.2.1 Layout

Stake out approved plant material locations and planter bed outlines on the project site before digging plant pits or beds. The Contracting Officer reserves the right to adjust plant material locations to meet field conditions. Do not plant closer than 36 inches to a building wall, pavement edge, fence or wall edge and other similar structures.

3.2.2 Soil Preparation

1. Obstructions Below Ground: Remove any rock, rubble, masonry, concrete, metal, stones over one inch or other underground obstructions to the depth necessary to permit proper planting.

2. Loosen subsoil/subgrade to a depth of six (6) inches prior to topsoil placement or as indicated on the Contract Drawings. Loosen subsoil with rototiller, backhoe or discer. After soil is loosened, there must be no more use of heavy machinery in planting plans.

3. For trees and shrubs: Rototill/cultivate soils to a depth equal to the depth of the root ball and two times the diameter of the root ball. Set the tree/shrub on the undisturbed solid ground in the center of the area.

4. Remove and dispose of all excess excavations and unsuitable materials except where soil is suitable for reuse on site. Reuse of on-site soil must be approved by the Contracting Officer.

Dispose in accordance with all local laws and regulations at the Contractor's own expense.

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5. Apply topsoil mix as indicated by the Contract Drawings, equipment used for topsoil distribution must not compact the soil.

3.2.2.1 Fertilizer Application Rates

Apply fertilizer in accordance with the Contract Drawings.

3.3 PLANT BED PREPARATION

Verify location of underground utilities prior to excavation. Protect existing adjacent turf before excavations are made. Where planting beds occur in existing turf areas, remove turf to a depth that will ensure removal of entire root system. Measure depth of plant pits from finished grade. Depth of plant pit excavation must be as indicated and provide proper relation between top of root ball and finished grade. Install plant material as specified in paragraph PLANT INSTALLATION. Do not install trees within 10 feet of any utility lines or building walls.

3.4 PLANT INSTALLATION

3.4.1 Individual Plant Pit Excavation

Excavate pits at least twice as large in diameter as the size of ball or container to depth shown.

3.4.2 Plant Beds with Multiple Plants

Excavate plant beds continuously throughout entire bed as outlined to depth shown.

3.4.3 Handling and Setting

Move plant materials only by supporting the root ball or container. Set plants and hold plumb in the center of the pit until soil has been tamped firmly around root ball. Set plant materials to depth at which they were grown in the nursery, collecting field or container. Replace plant material whose root balls are cracked or damaged either before or during the planting process.

Plant material must be set in plant beds according to the drawings.

Backfill soil mixture must be placed on previously scarified subsoil to completely surround the root balls, and must be brought to a smooth and even surface, blending to existing areas.

3.4.3.1 Balled and Burlapped Stock

Backfill with prepared soil mixture to approximately half the depth of ball and then tamp and water. Carefully remove or fold back excess burlap and tying materials from the top a minimum 1/3 depth from the top of the rootball. Tamp and complete backfill, place mulch topdressing, and water. Remove wires and non-biodegradable materials from plant pit prior to backfill operations.

3.4.3.2 Bare-Root Stock

Plant so roots are arranged in a natural position. Place roots in water a minimum of 30 minutes prior to planting. Carefully work prepared soil mixture among roots. Tamp remainder of backfill, place mulch topdressing and water.

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3.4.3.3 Container Grown Stock

Remove from container and prevent damage to plant or root system. Cut containers on two (2) sides with an approved can cutter and remove plant from container. Set container grown stock as specified. If container grown plant is root-bound or can be easily pulled from container, plant must be rejected. Place plant on a cushion of planting soil mixture and carefully work soil mix around roots by hand and puddle with water until the soil mix layers are completely saturated.

3.4.3.4 Ground Covers and Vines

Plant after placing mulch topdressing. Do not remove plant materials from flats or containers until immediately before planting. Space at intervals indicated. Plant at a depth to sufficiently cover all roots. Start watering areas planted as required by temperature and wind conditions.

Apply water at a rate sufficient to ensure thorough wetting of soil to a depth of 6 inches without run off or puddling. Smooth planting areas after planting to provide even, smooth finish. Mulch as indicated.

3.4.4 Earth Mounded Watering Basin for Individual Plant Pits

Form with topsoil around each plant by replacing a mound of topsoil around the edge of each plant pit. Watering basins must be 6 inches deep for trees and 4 inches deep for shrubs. Eliminate basins around plants in plant beds containing multiple plants.

3.4.5 Erosion Control Material

Install in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.

3.4.6 Placement of Mulch Topdressing

Place specified mulch topdressing on top of weed control fabric covering total area enclosed by edging. Place mulch topdressing to a depth of 3 inches.

3.4.7 Mulch Topdressing

Provide mulch topdressing over entire planter bed surfaces and individual plant surfaces including earth mound watering basin around plants to a depth of 3 inches after completion of plant installation and before watering. Keep mulch out of the crowns of shrubs. Place mulch a minimum 2 to 3 inches away from trunk of shrub or tree. Place on top of any weed control fabric.

3.4.8 Fertilization

3.4.8.1 Fertilizer Tablets

Place fertilizer planting tablets evenly spaced around the plant pits to the manufacturer's recommended depth.

3.4.8.2 Granular Fertilizer

Apply granular fertilizer as a top coat prior to placing mulch layer and water thoroughly.

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3.4.9 Watering

Start watering areas planted as required by temperature and wind conditions. Apply water at a rate sufficient to ensure thorough wetting of soil to a depth of 12 inches without run off.

3.4.10 Staking and Guying

3.4.10.1 Deer Protection Fence

The Contractor shall furnish all materials, labor, and equipment necessary to install the deer fence specified herein as required by the Contracting Officer. Contractor shall submit Deer Protection Fence product data which conforms to the requirements herein.

The deer fence shall be 8.0' high, 14 gauge Welded Wire, 2 x 4" mesh, black powder coated galvanized steel, with heavy duty fence posts and 5' wide gate. The posts shall be 10 ft tall and placed 8 ft on center and are driven into the subgrade a minimum of 2 ft. The fence shall be 8 ft high and conform to the detail on the Contract drawings.

The deer fence shall be maintained in good condition and repaired as necessary by the Contractor during the landscaping and plant guarantee period as directed by the Contracting Officer and restoration specialist.

The deer fence shall be inspected periodically (at least once per week), or as directed by the Contracting Officer through the two consecutive growing season plant guarantee. Any required repairs shall be made immediately. At the end of the two consecutive growing season plant guarantee the fence shall be removed by the Contractor.

3.4.10.2 Temporary Goose Exclusion Fence

Install Temporary Goose Exclusion Fence as per contract drawings in Emergent and Extended Detention Zones immediately after these areas are planted. The Contractor must repair the fence as often as is necessary throughout the two consecutive growing season plant guarantee. The Contractor must remove the entire fence at the end of the two consecutive growing season plant guarantee, or as directed by the Contracting Officer.

3.4.11 Pruning

Prune in accordance with safety requirement of TCIA Z133.

3.4.11.1 Trees and Shrubs

Remove dead and broken branches. Prune to correct structural defects only. Retain typical growth shape of individual plants with as much height and spread as practical. Do not cut central leader on trees. Make cuts with sharp instruments. Do not flush cut with trunk or adjacent branches. Collars must remain in place. Pruning must be accomplished by trained and experienced personnel and must be accordance with TCIA A300P1.

3.4.11.2 Wound Dressing

Do not apply tree wound dressing to cuts.

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3.5 RESTORATION AND CLEAN UP

3.5.1 Restoration

Turf areas, pavements and facilities that have been damaged from the planting operation must be restored to original condition at the Contractor's expense.

3.5.2 Clean Up

Excess and waste material must be removed from the installed area and must be disposed offsite at an approved landfill, recycling center, or composting center. Separate and recycle or reuse the following landscape waste materials: nylon straps, wire, ball wrap, burlap, wood stakes, and others. Adjacent paved areas must be cleared.

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