As-Needed Landscaping Services

005-RFB-2995-2027 - As-Needed Landscaping Services in the Des Moines Metro Area
REQUEST FOR BIDS
RFB COVER SHEET
Administrative Information
As-Needed Landscaping Services in the Des
RFB Number 005-RFB-2995-2027 Title of RFB
Moines Metro Area
Agency Iowa Department of Administrative Services (DAS)
State Issuing Officer:
Katelyn Howells
Phone: 515-721-7856
E-mail: Katelyn.Howells@das.iowa.gov
PROCUREMENT TIMETABLE-Event or Action Date/Time (Central Time)
State Posts Notice of RFB on the TSB website August 24, 2026
State Issues RFB August 26, 2026
Follow-up RFB written questions, requests for clarification, and
September 2, 2026 at
suggested changes from Bidders due (no questions accepted or
3:00PM
responded to after this date)
September 10, 2026 at
Bids Due
2:00PM
Relevant Websites
Internet website where the Addenda to this RFB will be posted http://bidopportunities.iowa.gov and
IMPACS Electronic Procurement System.
Internet website where contract terms and conditions are posted
https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/procurement/pdf/050116%20terms%20services.pdf
https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/procurement/pdf/050116%20terms%20goods.pdf
Firm Bid Terms
The minimum number of days following the deadline for submitting bids that the Bidder guarantees all
terms, including price, will remain firm is 120 Days.
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005-RFB-2995-2027 - As-Needed Landscaping Services in the Des Moines Metro Area
SECTION 1 SPECIFICATIONS
All items listed in this Section are Bid Specifications. A successful Bidder must be able to satisfy all these
specifications to be deemed a Responsible Bidder.
1.1. Bidder Requirements
1.1.1. All work performed by the Bidder must comply with the current Iowa Occupational
Safety and Health Standards. Bidders are required to inform the Lead Agency of any and
all OSHA violations during the term of the contract
1.1.2. Bidder must be a licensed contractor with the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals,
and Licensing (DIAL) at the time of bid.
1.1.3. Bidder must maintain appropriate Commercial Pesticide Applicator License(s) from the
Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship for pesticide/fertilizers used to
complete services included in this contract at the time of bid.
1.1.4. Bidder will have to report to work site with all tools and equipment required for the work
to be performed.
1.1.5. Bidder will be required to obtain and maintain all required permits.
1.1.6. When applicable, Bidder must follow the Capitol Complex Ground Penetration Process
as specified on this form.
1.1.7. Bidder must respond timely to service requests. Bidder is expected to respond and
schedule work within 24 hours of Agency request.
1.1.8. Bidder shall have sufficient inventory of materials to meet usual and customary
commercial contract needs. State Agencies reserve the right to furnish materials
required in the completion of work under this contract.
1.1.9. Bidder must possess sufficient resources and be capable of handling more than one State
job at a time.
1.1.10. Bidder must have all the necessary personnel and equipment to safely work on systems
and have the required certifications and licenses.
1.1.11. Bidder shall maintain Safety Data Sheets for all chemicals stored on State property.
1.2. Scope of Work
Bidder is to provide as-needed landscaping services at the Iowa Capitol Complex and other State-
owned facilities in the Des Moines Metro Area.
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005-RFB-2995-2027 - As-Needed Landscaping Services in the Des Moines Metro Area
1.2.1. Service Requirements
Bidder must complete services including, but not limited to, the following:
1.2.1.1. Weeding, hand-pruning, mulch replenishment, and edging of landscape beds.
1.2.1.2. Pruning of shrubs and ornamental plants.
1.2.1.3. Tree work, including routine inspection, minor pruning, and (if authorized)
removal.
1.2.1.4. Soil testing and providing fertilizer, compost, and lime as needed.
1.2.1.5. Insect and pest management.
1.2.1.6. Seasonal cleanups in spring and fall.
1.2.1.7. Planting of annuals and shrub/small tree replacements.
1.2.2. Installation
Installation of any landscape materials shall be the Respondent's responsibility and
expense, as shall be the removal of such equipment and/or software upon completion
of the contract or cancellation of the contract. The Bidder shall be responsible for all
Bidder-owned equipment. The risk of loss and/or damage to Bidder-owned equipment
shall be fully assumed by the Bidder at all times pertinent to the contract.
1.2.3. Subcontractors
Subcontractors must be approved in advance by the Agency.
1.3. Planting Requirements
Bidder shall plant according the following minimum standards:
1.3.1. Zone
Plants suitable for USDA Zones 4-6 (Iowa). All material shall be nursery-grown, healthy,
free of pests/disease, true-to-name, meeting ANSI Z60.1 standards.
1.3.2. Submittals
Species list, plant tags photos, nursery origin, root type (balled and burlapped, container,
bare-root), and certifications for native/declared invasive status.
1.3.3. Inspection
Agency may reject material not meeting specs at delivery.
1.3.4. Soil, Backfill, and Amendments
1.3.4.1. Topsoil
Clean loam, pH 6.0-7.5, organic matter 3%, and free of roots/debris. Particle
size <1".
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005-RFB-2995-2027 - As-Needed Landscaping Services in the Des Moines Metro Area
1.3.4.2. Backfill Mix
70% topsoil + 30% compost (or approved equal). No rock >1".
1.3.4.3. Fertilizer
Starter slow-release fertilizer applied per manufacturer rates at planting.
1.3.4.4. Soil compaction
Do not place heavy loads on loosened planting beds after placement.
1.3.4.5. Removal
When necessary, clay/poor soil from holes dug is to be removed from site not
spread around.
1.3.5. Planting Procedure (minimum)
1.3.5.1. Excavate hole 2-3 times rootball diameter. Keep depth so root flare is at or 1"
above finished grade.
1.3.5.2. Set plant, remove burlap/wire from top 13 of balled and burlapped rootball and
loosen circling roots on container stock.
1.3.5.3. Backfill with specified mix in lifts and tamp lightly while avoiding over-
compaction.
1.3.5.4. Create a surface saucer to retain water.
1.3.5.5. Mulch shall be 2-3" shredded hardwood or approved alternative. Keep
mulch 3-4" clear of trunks/crowns.
1.3.5.6. Watering to include deep irrigations at installation follow up irrigation until
established.
1.3.6. Staking and Guying
1.3.6.1. Stake trees over 2.5" caliper with two straps or a single stake system and use
flexible ties that protect the bark.
1.3.6.2. Remove stakes after 12 months or when tree is stable. Record staking details
on submittal.
1.3.7. Irrigation and Establishment
1.3.7.1. Temporary Irrigation
Provide drip or soaker system for 12 months minimum or until 90% survival.
1.3.7.2. Typical Schedule
Deep soak 1-2x/week during establishment (adjust for rainfall/season).
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005-RFB-2995-2027 - As-Needed Landscaping Services in the Des Moines Metro Area
3.1.1.1 Contractor responsible for initial 30-90 day monitoring and watering. Provide
winter protection for young stock as necessary.
1.3.8. Maintenance and Warranty
1.3.8.1. Warranty
Bidder responsible for a minimum of one year from final acceptance for
perennials/shrubs/annuals and two years for shade trees. Replace failures at
Contractor expense.
1.3.8.2. Performance
Replacements must be like-kind and meet original specs.
1.3.8.3. Maintenance
Pruning, weeding, fertilization, irrigation adjustments, and pest control
included during warranty period.
1.3.9. Substitutions
Substitutions require written approval with nursery source, photos, and sample. The
proposed substitute must match size, habit, growth rate, and be non-invasive/native-
preferred.
1.3.10. Plant Selection
Plants must be climate appropriate (cold-hardy) for Iowa.
1.3.11. Measurement and Acceptance Criteria
1.3.11.1. Measurement Standard
ANSI A300/ANSI Z60.1 for caliper, height, and rootball.
1.3.11.2. Acceptance
Plant must be alive, healthy, and show active growth at end of warranty. Dead,
missing, or diseased plants replaced at Bidder's cost within 14 days of
notification.
1.4. Work Rules
1.4.1. Facility Rules
State facilities have specific security and safety policies and procedures established
which must be adhered to at all times, per their instructions. Bidder's personnel shall
provide to the facilities designated contact(s) the following information in advance of
being admitted in site: name, date of birth, social security number, driver's license
number (background checks may be required), location, and description of work to be
performed.
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005-RFB-2995-2027 - As-Needed Landscaping Services in the Des Moines Metro Area
1.4.2. Site Conditions
All work must be performed in a safe manner. The Bidder shall at its sole expense
immediately correct any dangerous condition caused by or as a result of the Bidder's
work. The Bidder shall be held solely responsible for any damage to existing structures,
grounds, systems, equipment, or parts, caused by Bidder's employees and shall repair or
replace same to its original condition at no additional cost to the using State Agency. If
any shutdown of services is required, the Bidder must contact the using Agency prior to
shutdown. The bidder shall keep the site clean, and swept on a daily basis, or more often
if required to keep premises clean and safe. The bidder must remove all materials, and
debris from the work site on a daily basis. The Bidder shall at its sole expense, replace,
repair, or otherwise remedy any damage made to the existing grounds or buildings by
the Bidder in the performance of their work. Existing walks, driveways and parking areas
are to be kept free and clean at all times. Parking spaces should be arranged with the
Agency. All parking costs are the responsibility of the Bidder.
1.4.3. Proper Conduct
The Bidder shall adhere to proper conduct at all times. Proper conduct is meant to
include, but shall not be limited to the following: There shall be no weapons, drugs or
alcohol on the premises. No smoking on the premises unless there is a designated
smoking area and the smoking is conducted in such area. No secured doors left open or
unlocked. The Bidder shall conduct business in a professional manner at all times.
1.4.4. Temporary Utilities
The Bidder shall have temporary use of electrical power from existing outlets as directed
by the Agency. The Bidder shall furnish all connections and extensions from these outlets
at its own expense.
1.4.5. Storage
The Bidder shall store all materials, tools and equipment only in areas designated by the
Agency. The Bidder shall keep those areas clean and clear of combustible
materials/waste. The Bidder shall provide adequate facilities for the storage of waste
materials and rubbish prior to removal from the site. Debris, surplus materials,
equipment, etc., may need to be removed periodically, depending on the Agency's
needs. No ladders, tools or equipment shall be left unattended. The Bidder shall be solely
responsible for damage, loss or liability due to theft or vandalism of his materials, tools
and equipment.
1.4.6. Hazardous Materials
Where the Bidder encounters suspected areas of hazardous materials such as asbestos,
Bidder shall immediately cease operations and notify the Agency. No work shall proceed
until the Agency has the areas tested and has initiated an approved method of
neutralizing or removing the hazard, as per E.P.A. requirements. The Bidder agrees to
accept responsibility for notifying his or her employees of any hazard which exists and
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005-RFB-2995-2027 - As-Needed Landscaping Services in the Des Moines Metro Area
to protect all personnel from same, holding harmless the Agency, his or her employees,
and the Designer from any claims against them by the Bidder, his or her employees or
third parties. The Agency shall advise the Bidder of any verified hazards. The Agency will
also advise the areas suspected as possible hazards. If the Bidder is required to work in
the suspected hazardous area (but not in direct contact with the hazard), they will be
required to accept responsibility and cost for notifying and protecting his or her
personnel as though the area is contaminated. The Bidder will not be reimbursed for a
reasonable delay in work caused by a hazard during the job.
1.5. Standard of Quality
1.5.1. Quality and Conformance
All goods, services, and work (collectively "Deliverables") shall conform to the Contract,
approved samples, and applicable laws, codes, and recognized industry standards, and
to Manufacturer's latest published specifications unless otherwise provided.
1.5.2. Materials and Workmanship
Materials shall be new and of first quality unless expressly permitted otherwise.
Workmanship shall be in accordance with best practices for the trade and equal to or
better than similar completed projects.
1.5.3. Personnel and Subcontractors
Bidder shall employ qualified, licensed personnel and ensure subcontractors meet the
same standards. Bidder remains fully responsible for subcontractor performance.
1.5.4. Inspection, Testing, and Acceptance
Agency has the right to inspect and reject Deliverables that do not meet requirements.
Inspection does not relieve Bidder of obligations. Final acceptance occurs only after
successful completion of required inspection and resolution of punch list items.
1.5.5. Nonconforming Deliverables & Remedies
On notice of nonconformance, Bidder shall, within 10 days, at its expense, repair,
replace, or re-perform the Deliverable to conform. If Bidder fails to timely cure, Buyer
may correct or procure replacement and charge Bidder for costs, without prejudice to
other remedies.
1.5.6. Warranties and Duration
Bidder warrants Deliverables for a minimum of 12 months from acceptance (or longer as
specified). Warranties include latent defects, compliance with statutory requirements,
and transferability of manufacturer warranties.
1.5.7. Certification, Records, and Traceability
Upon request, Bidder shall furnish material certificates, test reports, MSDS, test logs, and
other required documentation prior to or upon delivery. Records must be retained for 3
years (or as required).
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005-RFB-2995-2027 - As-Needed Landscaping Services in the Des Moines Metro Area
1.5.8. Change in Standards
If applicable standards or codes change between award and completion, Bidder shall
notify the Agency and, where required, bring the Deliverables into compliance at no
additional cost unless change order is approved.
1.5.9. Remedies Cumulative
Remedies for breach of quality are cumulative and include rejection, repair,
replacement, price reduction, contract termination, and recovery of damages.
1.6. Performance Monitoring
1.6.1. Performance Metrics
The Bidder shall maintain the following minimum performance standards:
* Weed tolerance:<5% visible weeds in planting beds.
* Pruning standard: maintain natural form; no topping.
* Response times: within 3 business days.
* Monthly site inspection reports with photos. Corrective action plan within 5 business
days for deficiencies.
1.6.2. Service Level Failures
Failure to meet performance standards for two (2) consecutive months or three (3)
months within any twelve (12) month period may result in contract termination or other
remedies as specified in the contract terms and conditions.
1.7. Invoicing and Supporting Documentation
1.7.1. The Bidder shall provide detailed invoices itemizing all goods and services provided.
When necessary, invoices shall be accompanied by supporting documentation.
1.7.2. Each invoice must reference the contract number, PO number, invoice number, invoice
date, vendor remittance information, description of goods/services, quantity, unit price,
list and discount price (when applicable) and line-item totals.
1.7.3. Documentation to support invoicing is compliant with the contract must be provided
when requires.
1.7.4. Invoices missing required fields or supporting documents may be returned and will not
be considered received until corrected.
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