7.1. Topsoil A. Topsoil shall consist of a natural friable surface soil, without admixtures of undesirable subsoil, refuse or foreign materials. B. Topsoil shall be reasonably free from roots, hard clay, coarse gravel and stones larger than one (1) inch in any dimension, noxious weeds, tall grass, brush, sticks, stubble or other material which would be detrimental to the proper development of vegetative growth. C. Topsoil shall be obtained from naturally well drained sites where topsoil occurs at least four (4) inches deep. Topsoil shall not be obtained from bogs or marshes. D. Topsoil shall conform to the following grading o Sieve Sizes Percentage Passing o 1 Inch: 100% o ½ Inch: 95%- 100% o No. 4: 75%- 100% o No. 10: 60%- 100% o No. 200: 10%- 60% E. Topsoil shall contain not less than 3%, or more than 20% organic matter by weight, as determined by loss-on-ignition of oven-dried samples, in accordance with ATMT. F. Organic material shall be decomposed and free of wood. G. Topsoil sources lacking organic matter may be accepted, if prior to delivery, the sufficient organic matter in the form of pulverized peat moss or rich organic soil from other sources is thoroughly mixed with the topsoil, to provide a product meeting the specified requirements. H. Organic material for incorporation into topsoil, if required, shall be partially decomposed fibrous or cellular stems and leaves of any of several species of Sphagnum mosses, or rotted manure. Organic material may require chopping or shredding, to insure thorough mixing with the topsoil. I. Upon request of the purchaser, soil shall be subject to certified test analysis for physical and organic contents at any time. J. Bidders may be required to submit a twenty (20) pound sample of the material bid, prior to receiving an award. K. Upon request of delivery, topsoil price per ton should include the delivery cost anywhere in Baltimore County.
