Specifications include, but are not limited to: MOWING OF GRASS: A) Mower blades shall be kept sharp and in good condition in order to cut the grass cleanly. Turf shall be cut evenly and the direction of mowing shall be alternated as needed to minimize ruts and compaction. Appropriate mowing equipment and patterns will be employed to permit recycling of clippings where possible.; B) Mowing height in the summer shall be set at heights so as to encourage a deeper root system. A deep-rooted grass area is more efficient in obtaining water and nutrients and is more drought tolerant and weed resistant.; C) Mowing height for the last cutting shall be lowered. This is done in preparation of winter and will discourage turf diseases that can form if tall grass is matted down by snow.; D) Mowing height of Athletic Fields shall be according to the specific requirements of the individual sport.; • Soccer, lacrosse, baseball outfields 1.5” to 2.5”; • Baseball infields 1.0” to 2.5; • Multi-use Fields 2.0” to 3.0”; TURF FERTILIZATION AND WEED CONTROL: A) A healthy turf will be promoted through the most effective use of all available turf cultural practices including mowing, irrigation, over seeding, aeration and fertilization. Turf fertility program shall be based on soil test results, and designed to promote a dense turf with a uniform growth pattern throughout the season.; Annual fluctuations in weather and environmental conditions will require contractor to adjust fertilization and weed control agents in conjunction with manufacturer recommendations to produce the best possible results. Application coverage shall conform to manufacturer’s recommendations. All weed control will meet Connecticut regulations for application on K-12 school grounds.; B) A healthy turf is the best weed control. As the health of the turf is maintained, contractor shall attempt to limit the use of chemical controls for both broadleaf and pre-emergent crabgrass control. Blanket treatments of broadleaf weed control will be limited to one time per year, with additional spot treatments being used as needed to contain broadleaf weeds in turf areas. Chemicals shall be used in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations and meet all Connecticut regulations for application on K-12 school grounds.; C) All Pesticide and Chemicals used shall be approved by the Environmental Protection Agency, as well as, meet all state and federal regulations for K-12 school systems and be the safest and most effective materials for the specific task. Contractor shall maintain current file of MSDS and provide copies of MSDS to Owner as material is received on Owner’s premises.; D) All pesticides shall be applied by a licensed applicator under the supervision of a licensed supervisor in accordance with local, state and federal regulations for K-12 school grounds.; PRUNING: A) The pruning and trimming described in the Detailed Scope of Services shall be done at the proper time as required by the plant species. Dead or damaged branches and trees will also be removed. Pruning, rather than shearing will be used wherever possible to develop the natural form of the plant and to create the effect intended by the landscape architect.; WATERING: A) Watering of turf areas, bushes, trees and other plant material is included (where possible) in this proposal and shall be the sole responsibility of the Contractor. Contractor may make recommendations for watering so as to promote a healthy landscape.; B) Water and associated hook up points shall be provided by the Owner. Quick couplers and building mounted shut off valves are available for use. Water use by the Contractor is restricted to North Stonington grounds related functions.; INSECT AND DISEASE CONTROL: A) Contractor shall be responsible to monitor for problems with insects and diseases throughout the growing season. If pesticide applications are necessary in order to control insects and/or disease, Contractor shall notify Owner of the recommended treatment and treat these areas at no additional cost. All pesticide applications must comply with Connecticut statutes and regulations for use on K-12 school grounds.
