a) Soil Testing & Turf Evaluation: Soil testing and turf evaluation are to be provided by the Contractor in the following manner: 1. The Contractor shall perform a soil test at the start of the contract. Soil testing and turf evaluation of the area shall be performed prior to both the spring and fall applications to inform and support Contractor-recommended plan for turf care. 2. The Contractor shall provide a map identifying the location where soil samples were taken in each of the sections. A minimum of five (5) soil samples shall be taken from (at minimum) three (3) different areas of the cemetery. (Especially our most challenging areas C & E and section L.) 3. Contractor shall have all soil samples tested to determine levels of pH, acidity and other nutrient levels pertinent to the proper determination of lime, fertilizer, weed control, soil amendment, and insect control products to be applied on the site by the Contractor during the contract period. 4. Contractor shall perform an Integrated Pest Management Survey (IPM Survey). 5. Contractor shall develop written recommendations (by mid-April ) for ongoing turf management, based upon the results of the soil test, (the IPM Survey,) and in accordance with the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) Handbook 3410: Integrated Pest Management Procedures for VA National Cemeteries (Attachment Number Four). Contractor shall provide these recommendations in writing along with copies of the tests performed and their results to the Cemetery Superintendent. 6. The Contractor shall provide his/her written analysis and recommendations to the Cemetery Superintendent outlining the findings with justifications for the proposed applications and plan. The Cemetery Superintendent shall review Contractor’s recommendations and application schedule, and if required, shall adjust the treatment plan to the requirements of the Cemetery. 7. Cemetery Superintendent acceptance and approval of Contractor Analysis and recommendations for turf treatment shall be obtained by the Contractor prior to commencement of any treatments. Prior to commencing treatments, Contractor shall meet with Cemetery Superintendent to confirm the type of treatment application planned for that day, and that treatments are required. 8. If needed, following completion of soil testing, IPM survey, and provision of the Contractor’s written recommendations, the below listed fertilization, weed control, soil amendment, and grub control fertilization, weed control, soil amendment, grub control, and crabgrass control specifications and schedule shall be adjusted to reflect changes that have been approved by the Cemetery Superintendent. b) Fertilization and weed control Schedule: Fertilization and weed control provided by the Contractor will consist of the following: 1. In early spring (April 1st -April 15th), the Contractor shall apply slow-release fertilizer, broadleaf weed, and pre-emergent weed control with a crabgrass reducer which will feed the grassroots, promote turf density, and create a barrier against crabgrass. 2. In late spring (May 15th – June 15th), the Contractor shall apply slow-release fertilizer, broadleaf weed and pre-emergent weed control with a crabgrass reducer which will feed the grassroots, promote turf density, and create a barrier against crabgrass. 3. In early fall (September 1- October 1) the Contractor shall apply slow-release fertilizer which will promote strong root growth, promote turf density, and utilize an effective program to treat broadleaf weeds. 4. In late fall (October 1- November 1) the Contractor will apply a root enhancement fertilizer that will increase nutrient uptake, build a strong root structure and prepare the lawn for Early Spring. c) Soil Amendments (AS NEEDED): For the purposes of this specification, a soil amendment shall be referred to as a soil conditioner defined in COMAR (15.18.03.01). Shall consist of an application(s) of pelletized lime and/or other suitable products that will provide beneficial micro-nutrients to the soil for proper root development and nutrient uptake. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR SOIL CONDITIONER PRODUCTS – Sourcing: A. MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE (MSW) 1) Soil conditioners derived from MSW must: a. comply with the EPA concentration limits found in the EPA Biosolids Rule 503 (EPA 503). b. be separated from other materials in the MSW stream and free of litter. This includes glass, metals, plastics and household hazardous waste. c. (in the case of leachate) adhere to the MDE permit requirements for organic waste recycling. d. be sourced locally in Maryland. 2) The State requires bidders to submit documentation that the soil conditioner does not exceed the minimum concentration for metals and pathogens listed in COMAR.15.18.04.05. These limits must be met in order to be awarded the contract.
