A. Mowing - During the fast-growing season (March 15 through December 15), all turf areas shall be mowed no less than once every seven (7) calendar days to maintain optimal turf height for the species at this location. During the slower growing season (December 16 through March 14) all turf areas shall be mowed no less than once every fourteen (14)-calendar days. The Department's Project Manager must approve exceptions to this schedule in advance and in writing. *Mowing may only be performed on Friday’s or Weekends* Prior to mowing operations, all debris and litter shall be picked up and properly removed by the Vendor. Mowing will be done using Stand-on or Walk-Behind mowers with sharp blades and tight belts so that no noticeable clippings remain on the turf. Mower deck height may be lifted four to four and a-half inches (4' - 4.5") during times of drought to relieve stress on the turf as deemed necessary by the Vendor and the Department's Project Manager. Clippings will be blown from adjacent hard surfaces immediately after completion of mowing operations, so that grass clippings, and other debris are not tracked into the buildings. Mower grass exhausts will be turned away from nearby entrances, air conditioner units, and other ground level equipment/machinery, while mowing nearby so they are not cluttered or clogged by grass cuttings or other debris from the mower(s). Safe mowing practices shall be maintained at all times. B. Leaf and Debris Removal (Blowing) - All hard surfaces, including but not limited to parking lots, sidewalks, and other paved areas, shall be cleared of leaves and debris in accordance with the mowing schedule. If mowing is performed more frequently, leaf blowing will be adjusted to match that schedule. During the months when a high content of leaves have fallen the vendor is responsible for picking up the leaves and may not blow them onto the adjacent grass or islands. The vendor shall take all reasonable precautions to avoid causing damage to any buildings, vehicles, or other property during leaf and debris removal. Any damage caused by the vendor’s equipment or actions must be promptly reported to the project manager and may result in rectification at the vendor’s expense. Edging - Edging of all turf areas, adjoining sidewalks, curbs, parking areas, roadways, drives, shrubs, flower beds, trees, planters, sign posts, fences, etc., shall be performed consistent with the mowing schedule. The edging of turf to mulch areas, such as trees and flowerbeds, shall be maintained chemically or by hand throughout the fast and slow growing seasons.
