NSU Horticulture and Bed Maintenance Contract

Background
Northwestern State University (NSU) is seeking bids for a Horticulture and Bed Maintenance Contract to maintain the landscaping on its main campus in Natchitoches, Louisiana. The goal of this contract is to ensure the aesthetic upkeep and health of the university's grounds through regular maintenance services.

Work Details
The contractor will provide labor, materials, supplies, and equipment necessary for horticulture and bed maintenance services. Specific tasks include:

1. Weed & Clean twice monthly.
2. Prune shrubs monthly during the growing season.
3. Prune trees on walkways monthly as needed.
4. Fertilize monthly, coordinating with the Physical Plant Director for alternatives.
5. Repair and maintain irrigation systems at NSU's cost for parts.
6. Replace dead plants at NSU's cost for plants.
7. Conduct color changes twice annually at NSU's cost for plants.
8. Clean beds with mulch and pine straw before major events like graduation or homecoming, with supplies provided by the contractor.
9. Trim low-hanging branches once in spring and once in mid-summer.
10. Maintain landscaping free of pests like fire ants and sugar ants, using EPA-approved chemicals only.

Period of Performance
The contract will commence upon award and is expected to continue for a period of one year, with options to renew for two additional one-year periods.

Place of Performance
Services will be performed at Northwestern State University's main campus located in Natchitoches, Louisiana.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must possess a landscape license, Louisiana contractor’s license, pesticide applicators license, or a horticultural license (Specialty: Landscaping, Grading & Beautification). Bidders must also provide proof of successful completion of similar contracts and submit a certificate of insurance with their bid submission.