ALCA Influence March April

The

ALCA

A R I Z O N A L A N D S C A P E C O N T R AC TO R S ’ A S S O C I AT I O N

INFLUENCE

March/April 2010

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT NO. 2840 SACRAMENTO, CA

Plant a New Beautiful Spring Safely Pruning/ Removing Trees Spring Flowers Bring Back Aromatic Memories Cover Photo: Enchanted Garden Landscape, Inc. 2009 Xeriscape Award Winner

TABLE OF CONTENTS

March/April 2010

The

ALCA

ARIZONA LANDSCAPE C O N T R A C T O R S ’ A S S O C I AT I O N

INFLUENCE

ALCA President’s Message......................................................4 CEO Message.....................................................................6 New Members.....................................................................7 Calendar.............................................................................7 ALCA Sponsors.....................................................................7 ALCA 2009 Awards..............................................................8 Plant a New, Beautiful Spring................................................11 Excellence in Landscaping Application Available.......................11 ACLP Workshops................................................................12 Kathy’s Korner.....................................................................13 Safely Pruning/Removing Trees..............................................14 Spring Flowers Bring Back Aromatic Memories.........................16 IRS Updates.......................................................................17 ALCA Member Profile: Ewing................................................18 ALCA Member Mixer...........................................................20 Resource Guide..................................................................22

2009 BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Ed Macias

PUBLICATION Advertising

Will Pereira

Association Outsource Services, Inc., (916) 990-9999 www.aosinc.biz

Vice President

Design

President Elect BlueStar Resort & Golf

Matthew Johnson

Lori Mattas

Secretary

Printing

Asset Landscaping

Tony Acosta

Copeland Printing

Treasurer

Arizona Landscape Contractors Association

Hill & Usher Insurance & Surety

5425 E Bell Road, Suite 105 Scottsdale, Arizona 85254 Phone: 602-626-7091 Fax: 602-626-7590 www.azlca.com

Xeriscapes Unlimited, Inc.

Steve Shields

Chief Executive Officer Judy Gausman judy@azlca.com

water used wisely Excel™ and Microline™ Dripline

The ALCA Influence is the official publication of the Arizona Landscape Contractors Association. ALCA and The ALCA Influence assume no responsibility for the statements or opinions appearing in articles under an author’s name. The services of an attorney or accountant should be sought in legal and tax matters. For editorial information, contact the Arizona Landscape Contractors Association, 5425 E. Bell Road, Suite 105.

Scottsdale, Arizona 85254; telephone, (602) 626-7091; facsimile, (602) 626-7590; e-mail, judy@azlca.com.

In line drippers with 6”, 12”, 18”, 24”, 30” and 36” spacing. Available in .6 and 1 GPH suitable for any application. Excel™ Dripline is pressure compensating for consistant flow and available with check valve.

Intelligent Irrigation Solutions™ www.digcorp.com

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

President’s Message

H

ello to everyone in 2K10! I hope the New Year finds everyone doing well. It’s hard to believe that we are already looking towards the end of the first quarter of the year. How time flies when we are all trying to improve upon 2009.

I personally don’t know if the government’s stimulus package is working, but I do know that the economy has put me in the middle of being a government statistic. I have been blessed and fortunate to have worked for a wonderful company the last 17 years. This past January we parted ways and I find myself hoping that our economy jump starts itself and opportunity is just waiting down the road.

Ed Macias

Opportunity! Opportunity is what we all strive for. The opportunity to land the right project, the opportunity to find the right employee, the opportunity to make our customer happy, the opportunity to find the perfect job, the opportunity to have balance in our lives. Opportunity! I believe that is still out there, the “opportunity to have opportunities”. That is what has always made our country great. As difficult as things have been the last couple of years we know that opportunities are just around the corner.

That’s why we continue to bid our projects, grow our plant material, and introduce our new irrigation and lighting products. I recently drove through Palm Springs and saw a couple of interesting signs. One said “Recession 101” followed by “The good thing about a recession is that it ends.” Opportunity is a calling!

Your board is hard at work. The New Year is barely a couple of months old and committees and trustees are engaged to continue to improve our ALCA organization. Our first Member Mixer was held at Maggiano’s in Scottsdale and we got 2010 started with the same enthusiasm that we finished in 2009.

I look forward to seeing and talking with all of you this year. I wish that 2010 is filled with opportunities for all of you.

Ed Macias 2010 ALCA President

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CEO’S MESSAGE

CEO’s Message

M Judy Gausman

y Great-grandparents arrived in the United States transported on a ship, fleeing crop failure, land and job shortages, rising taxes, and famine. The U.S. was perceived as the land of economic opportunity and hope for a brighter future.

My Grandma Freda was the oldest child of 8 kids. She would tell stories of how she packed molasses and bread sandwiches in her lunch box every day. She did not finish grade school but instead helped her mother care for her younger siblings.

My Dad is from a generation where he actual did walk to school barefoot and boasts how he graduated the smartest kid in his class. In fact, he was the only kid in his class.

And I had to ride the school bus until I was a sophomore in high school. That’s when my oldest sister, Pauletta, got her

driver’s license and drove us to school in the “three on the tree”, powder blue, wing tipped, Ford.

My son drove a beat up Toyota pickup truck to school that I purchased and then of course a second car for my daughter when it came her turn to drive. With all of their before and after school activities, it was the logical thing to do.

It seems we all want better for our children than what we had. Maybe we should be asking ourselves, “What kind of planet do we want to live on and what kind of environment do we want for our children and grandchildren to inherit?”

With all the knowledge and advanced technology available for the landscape professionals, you are in the best position to have a great and direct impact on our environment.

PLANET (Professional Landcare Network) recently published its “Crystal Ball Report #29 – Green Industry ECOnomics: Innovating Toward a Sustainable and Profitable Future”.

It is a report on perspectives and opinions on what the landscape industry can and should be doing to go from green to greener. The committee suggests that first you share your vision with your team; look at the energy needs of your office and shops and conserve. You should implement employee health awareness and safety programs. Let ALCA help you; we hold safety and tools workshops twice a year.

Start a recycling program and minimize the use of disposable items. Manage the routing of your service vehicles and purchase and use fuel-efficient vehicles. When purchasing products, consider their life cycles. AND, buy local whenever possible!!!

We are and have been the green industry.

As I have mentioned before, “we were green before green was cool”. We are very visible and in the position to set the example and work toward the solution of sustainability. What better gift to give to our children, their children and their children?

Respectfully Submitted Judy Gausman CEO

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MEMBER UPDATES

2010

New

Calendar of Events

Members

March 17

Phoenix Member Mixer

23

ALCA Board of Directors’ Meeting

25

Tucson Member Mixer

April 21

Phoenix Member Mixer

29

Tucson Member Mixer

May 19

Phoenix Member Mixer

21

Desert Horticulture Conference

National Auto Mart

Datura Landscape Solutions, LLC

Jason Carrillo 4735 East Virginia Street, Suite 101 Mesa, AZ 85215 Phone: 480-830-0264 Fax: 602-357-7458 Email: jcarrillo@ daturalandscapesolutions.com

Mark Manney 2947 West McDowell Road Phoenix, AZ 85009 Phone: 602-484-7055 Fax: 602-484-0194 Email: mark@nationalautomart.com

S R L Construction

Chris Stanley & Brandon Figg PO Box 8109 Glendale, AZ 85312 Phone: 623-594-2489 Fax: 623-594-2162 Email: CPStanley32@netscape.net

Hermosa lawn

San Tan Ford

Marco Louis P O Box 10762 Phoenix, AZ 85064 Phone: 602-750-8919 Email: Marcorlouis@yahoo.com

Bonnie Barnett 1429 East Motorplex Loop Gilbert, AZ 85297 Phone: 480-621-3743 Fax: 480-621-3796 Email: bonniebarnett@santanford.com

Kona Land & Water Escapes

Lenny & Julia Clark 7650 S McClintock, 103 – 436 Tempe, AZ 85284 Phone: 480-345-0314 Fax: 480-730-2661 Email: Lenny@konalandscape.com

Stillwater Landscape Management, LLC Rick Robinson 4234 East Elwood Phoenix, AZ 85040 Phone: 602-721-3796 Email: rickr@stillwaterlm.com

Mitschele Landscape Maintenance

Weinberger Waste Disposal

Aaron Mitschele P O Box 31130 Phoenix, AZ 85046 Phone: 602-616-0634 Email: brent@mitscheleslandscape.com

Carl Tichenor 3425 South 43rd Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85009 Phone: 602-278-9155 Fax: 602-272-3732 Email: carl@gwwd.com

Wrangler Trailers LLC

Bob Hathcock 1128 South Lewis Street Mesa, AZ 85210 Phone: 480-964-1576 Fax: 480-964-7812 Email: atthehamptons@cox.net

Auto Safety House Becomes a Certified Roush Propane System Installer for Roush Performance

Auto Safety House LLC announced today that it has become the certified ROUSH® Performance Liquid Propane Injection (LPI) system installer for ROUSH® Performance Vehicles. EPA certified Roush Performance LPI kit installations will be available at each of the four Auto Safety House locations in Tucson, Holbrook and Phoenix, Arizona and in Las Vegas, Nevada.

ROUSH® Performance is based out of Livonia, Michigan and is the first specialty-vehicle company to combine race-proven technologies with advanced automotive engineering.

“We spent a number of months evaluated the LPI systems produced

by ROUSH® Performance and found it to be superior in quality and performance to all others currently available. Aside from the environmental benefit of reduction in green house gas emissions and reducing our dependence on foreign oil, gallon for gallon, prices for propane have consistently been lower than those of gasoline, primarily due to the way propane is refined. According to published government data, the price of propane per gallon, excluding taxes, averages about 78 percent of the price of gasoline. The lower cost of LP, tax benefits, and other credits available make this system a very cost effective option for all fleet operators to consider.” commented Rudy Garcia, Vice President of Sales and Marketing of Auto Safety House. “The fact that this system is backed by ROUSH® Performance is an added plus given their tremendous reputation in racing and other high performance design and technology development.”

“ROUSH® Performance has been working for 4 years in conjunction with the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) and Ford Motor Company to develop liquid propane injection (LPI) systems for a variety of Ford vehicles. These vehicles include: 2007/2008 F-150, 2009/2010 F-250/F-350, 2009 and newer E-150/E-250/E-350, and 2009 and newer E-450 cutaway vans used in shuttle bus and delivery applications. We’re pleased to have Auto Safety House join our team of authorized installers.” commented Todd Mouw, Director of Sales and Marketing for ROUSH® Performance.

Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association visit us on the web

AZLCA.com

Platinum Sponsors DLC Resources, Inc. Desierto Verde Evergreen Turf, Inc. Ewing Irrigation Products Horizon Distribution Inc. Hunter Industries Rain Bird The Toro Co./Irritol

Gold Sponsors Hill & Usher Insurance & Surety

Silver Sponsors HD Supply – Waterworks John Deere Landscapes West Coast Turf

2010 A Very Special Thank You to our

ALCA Sponsors March/April 2010

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ALCA LANDSCAPING AWARDS

Commercial Maintenance $250,001 - $350,000 Sponsored by Helena Chemical Co. Inc. Award of Excellence

Trailside Point Community Association – CareScape, Inc. Trailside Point is a wonderful community framed by a clear pond and waterfall surrounded by large turf and planting areas. There is 59.7 acres of decomposed granite landscaped with 1428 desert adapted trees and assorted shrubs. We inspect and maintain 9 playgrounds. There are several armadas surrounded with rolling grass and blooming shrubs.

Three large soccer fields are part of the 17.4 acres of turf. A bridle path circles the property. A beautiful park in the heart of the community has a 3 acre lake with walking bridges, armadas and sports facilities. We have had several challenges, the largest being water quality. We maintain a Flowtronics silent storm pump house. Soil and water test reveal very high levels of sodium at 660 ppm and chloride at 760 ppm among others. We are incorporating organic products to restore microbial activity in the soil. We enjoy providing dedicated, quality service to this Trailside Point.

Judges Award

Gothic Grounds Management, Inc. - West Phoenix Corte Bella Country Club Association

Award of Distinction

Red Mountain Ranch Owners Association – DLC Resources, Inc. The Red Mountain Ranch community is located in northeast Mesa, Arizona.

The Red Mountain Ranch provides residents with endless views of Red Mountain and numerous recreational activities in the common areas and via the community’s fitness center and club house. The common areas include approximately 50 acres of decomposed granite and 3 acres of turf. The community boasts 389 Saguaro cactus and over 1,500 trees, valued at over $8,100,000 in the common areas.

Operating sustainable is an important component of the common area landscape management at Red Mountain Ranch. By partnering with a green waste facility in early 2009, we anticipate recycling over 229,500 lbs of plant waste from Red Mountain Ranch this past year rather than taking it to a landfill.

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ALCA LANDSCAPING AWARDS

SFR Installation $350,000-$500,000 Sponsored by Cutting Edge Curbing Award of Distinction

Cook-O’Callaghan Residence – Enchanted Garden Landscape, Inc. The Cook-O’Callaghan residence is an extraordinarily unique home for Phoenix. An equally unique landscape was designed to compliment the residence. The English Tudor home required a specific style of landscaping to make the home look natural.

Upon entry into the two acre property, visitors are greeted by a circular cobble driveway surrounded by a formal hedge and mature trees. Large expanses of turf that are irrigated with flood and spray irrigation surround the home. Two large existing Eucalyptus trees frame the entry of the home and were used to mount several down lights.

The pool was designed with simplicity in mind making the landscaping the focal point. The lighting for the home was designed so guests can easily navigate the property. The landscape surrounding this beautiful estate home truly transports those lucky enough to see it to the English countryside.

SFR Installation Over $500,000 Sponsored by ForeverLawn Arizona, LLC

Award of Distinction

Morgan Estates – Sonoran Landesign, LLC The Morgan Estates has everything you can ask for in a home. The front entry is surrounded by large date palms and softened with a large front lawn area. Within the front gates of the estate is the auto court with circle drive around a majestic water feature. The water feature is softened with a grouping of annuals and the paver driveway is surrounded by lawn that defines the front entry. The front is nicely decorated with planted pots to help bring greenery up closer to the house.

The back yard has a large fire pit with cushioned bench seats on one side and elegant patio furniture on the other. It also has a multi functional BBQ area that has a dishwasher, grill, refrigerator, ice maker and is beautifully decorated with granite counters and tile backsplash. The full size cabana was built to house this wonderful BBQ area along with a pool table and large sitting area. There is a vast amount of lawn in the back and side yards which is a great place for children to play. In addition there is a large sport court to entertain children or adults of all ages as well.

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ALCA LANDSCAPING AWARDS

SFR Installation $50,001 - $75,000 Sponsored by ICPI AZ

SFR Installation Under $25,000 Sponsored by Desert Trees Nursery

Award of Distinction

Unger Residence – CYC Landscaping Mr. Unger asked for an outdoor living area complete with a Ramada, BBQ and fireplace. Our design had to accommodate very strict HOA restrictions requiring us to lower much of his backyard by two feet. We created a sunken area with a seat wall and an extensive patio area. We then tied the rest of the yard together with circle planters and circle patterns in the patio. The desire was for desert plants with a fair amount of color and again we worked around height restrictions on plants. Finally, we created a fenced area for the dogs using synthetic turf.

Award of Distinction

Cuyugan Residence – CYC Landscaping The Cuyugan property has extremely limited space but the customer wanted to maximize his usable area so we kept it simple with a paver area covering most of the back yard. We incorporated a circle pattern to keep it visually interesting. Mr. Cuyugan requested a simple barbeque that tied together with the house. The plantings were designed to create an oasis feeling but with low maintenance in mind as one of his top priorities.

Judges Award

Sonoran Landesign, LLC Peters Residence

Judges Award

Casa Serena Landscape Designs, LLC and Sonoran Gardens, Inc. Couch Residence

Judges Award

Sonoran Landesign, LLC Stein Residence

Judges Award

Horticulture Unlimited, Inc. Schrader-Adams Residence

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Plant A New, Beautiful Spring!

By Samantha Robinson, Dream With Colors

S

pring is upon us, bringing with it a time of renewal and change, especially in our industry. A key thing to remember when considering where to get your plants, in any season, is how well the plants will perform once they’re in the ground. Plants that are already acclimated to our unique climate don’t go through shock like plants from out of state, so you don’t have to worry about them dying right after you plant them. Buying from local growers who grow their product in Arizona will guarantee a plant that is already used to the highs and lows and low humidity here. Purchasing locally has the added benefit of keeping more money in Arizona, rather than sending it off to another state where we won’t be able to see the good it can do.

In these rough times, people are wanting something that will not only look good, but something that can provide for them as well. Edible gardens are the newest trend, and can be very beautiful in their own right, a feast for the eyes, as well as the table. Vegetables come in a plethora of very interesting textures, and some even have a bit of color for even more variety. Herbs look great and add wonderful scents to any space. Fruit trees don’t only provide fruit; they also bring a shady spot to sit on warm, sunny days, and can bring a sense of permanency and growth to your customers and their families. All of these items can be combined to create a lush, green garden that will help families save a little bit of money and eat healthier at the same time!

An item that is generally overlooked for spring because of its heavy fall use can be quite an eye-catcher! Geraniums boast bright, cheerful color and lush foliage that can amp up any bed, and they can last quite awhile with the right care. A series that just hit the market in the Fall of 2009, Dreams Geraniums (available exclusively from Dream With Colors), are grown right here in Arizona, so they will stand up to the wintery lows and the warm sunny days that spring brings us. Not only that, but they perform better in

Arizona than any other series on the market! Geraniums could be just the thing that will bring some excitement to your customers’ beds and gardens.

Geraniums and edibles are a couple ideas for this season, but ultimately it’s up to you what to plant. Almost any plant can survive in the Arizona spring, but some require a lot more maintenance than others. Locally grown product helps alleviate some of this burden, and choosing plants that will perform well without constant attention will drastically improve how beautiful your beds and gardens will look. Wise choices will not only benefit you, but also you’re customers, the community, and even the state.

Applications are now available on-line at www.azlca.com 34th Annual Arizona Excellence in Landscaping Awards Program

Market To Your Clients

Recognize Your Employees

Industry Recognition

Start taking your pictures

Deadline to enter is June 28

The Awards Program offers entrants a chance to compete in categories of residential and commercial areas of installation, redesign, maintenance and interiorscape.

Deadline to enter is June 28, 2010, so download your application from www.azlca.com

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ACLP WORKSHOPS

Arizona Certified Landscape Professional Program Please call the ALCA office to register at 602-626-7091 or download the registration form at www.azlca.com.

Bedding Plants and Color Workshop April 14, 2010

Instructors: Ursula Schuch, Ph.D. and David Jernigan Learning Objectives: • • • • • •

Soil preparation and transplanting of annuals and perennials Design principles of color for functional and pleasing bedding plant displays Blooming seasons for common annuals and herbaceous perennials Maintenance of color beds Basic pruning for shrubs Basics of wildflowers and rose care

The Bedding Plants and Color workshop will be held on April 14, 2010 at Central Arizona College. David Jernigan, owner and operator of The Gardener’s Touch, and Dr. Ursula Schuch, Extension Specialist at the University of Arizona, will team teach this workshop that covers topics related to the design, installation, and maintenance of flowering annuals and perennials. Plants that provide color in the landscape include annuals, herbaceous perennials, roses, grasses, wildflowers, and flowering shrubs. Flowering times, duration of flowering, and maintenance requirements vary widely for the different species. For newcomers to Arizona the notion of summer and winter annuals and annuals for the short time in between those seasons is often a novel concept. Shrub pruning schedules and maintenance schedules often differ from other parts of the country. Seasonal dormancy for wildflower beds and summer dormancy for some plants in our landscapes are also important to know about when scheduling maintenance.

We have Powerpoint presentations and handouts for most of the topics. Live bedding plants are brought to the class and we discuss their flowering features, how to identify them, how to distinguish them from similar plants, and when to plant them. We discuss soil preparation and planning a large bedding plant installation, including how to calculate the number of plants needed from each species. In the afternoon we take a walk across campus and discuss pruning practices. To finish off we have a brief practice exam. Our goal is to teach workshop participants how to be successful and excel in the field, not just to pass the exam.

Instructor: Ursula Schuch Ursula Schuch has been a Cooperative Extension Specialist in the Department of Plant Sciences with the University of Arizona since 2000. She has statewide responsibilities and provides education through various venues to the green industry in Arizona and the region. Her research is focused on water conservation and water quality in landscapes as well as nursery cultural practices. Ursula Schuch earned a MS degree in forestry and a Ph.D. in horticulture from Oregon State University. She has worked as Extension Specialist for nursery production at the University of California in Riverside and as professor for horticulture at Iowa State University before joining the University of Arizona.

Instructor: David Jernigan I am told that I have to write a brief biography and tell everyone how ACLP has made my career and life better. How I’m a big time contractor now…Well I’m not exactly a big time contractor, but I do have to credit ACLP and other similar programs for shifting my career into high gear. I did my first landscape install in Marion, Indiana in 1977. It was for a friend of the family who was getting married outside and they wanted it to look nice. After fleeing Indiana, I bumped around the construction and landscape industry for years both in California and Arizona, until the early 90’s when I realized I wasn’t getting any younger and the physical part of the job was taking its toll on my body. So, I took a class to prep me for the ISA Arborist exam. I learned a lot and passed the test. Suddenly, I knew more than about 90% of the people I came into contact with about trees. This one certification really gave me a boost both in confidence and in my wages, as well as my standing in the green industry. That got me hooked; I quickly signed up for the pesticide applicators certification, and passed. Then I decided to take the ACLP curriculum, I studied seriously and passed the test on the first try. I also received the high score for that year, so I won an award.

Within about 18 months, I had gone from being a schmo in the field, to the guy in the office that everyone came to for plant advice. I was invited to join the Board of ALCA and help with the ACLP certification exam. This led to networking with other organizations like The Garden Conservancy, which put me in touch with another group of people who helped jump start my business when I went out on my own. I can say without a doubt that the ACLP program has made a real positive change in my life. I encourage you to take the first step to make that change in your career, too.

David Jernigan has been happily married for 13 years, and has 5 children. Their company “The Gardener’s Touch” specializes in upscale residential landscape maintenance in the central Phoenix area.

Workshops are held at Central Arizona College 8470 N. Overfield Road, Coolidge, AZ, 8am - 4pm 12

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Turf & Sod Workshop March 10

Instructor: David M. Kopec, Ph.D. Turfgrass Management Kopec is the Extension Specialist for Turfgrass Management at the University of Arizona since 1985. He has a M.S. in Turfgrass Breeding and Pathology from Rutgers University, and a Ph.D. in Turfgrass Science and Management from the University of Nebraska.

He conducts applied research in germplasm adaptation, weed control, new grass development, PGR use, overseeding, spring transition and desert turfgrass management. He is an instructor for GCSAA and has taught the seminars Water Quality, Irrigation Scheduling, and Bermudagrass Greens Maintenance, with other cool dudes. He is one of the original instructors in ACLP, and has taught the turf classes and practical exams for 21 years.

Learning Objectives: • Principles of mowing • Grass Identification • Bermudagrass varieties • Principles of sod installation • Fertilization • Dethatching • Fall overseeding • Irrigation amounts for turf • PROBLEM SOLVING TECHNIQUES • Weed control, insects and diseases.

• The best one day in class you will ever have.

What You Will Learn: • Turfgrass I.D. (bring magnifying glass) • How to install sod • Turfgrass maintenance (establishment, mowing, fertilizing, de-thatching, overseeding) • Problem solving skills • Irrigation water amounts for turf • Weed ID, insects and diseases

Kathy’s Korner Q.

I’m about to hire a new employee bringing my total number of employees to 50. Will I become covered under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA)?

Besides medical reasons, for what other reasons must I give a leave of absence?

What should I do to be prepared?

A.

You are correct. The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) applies to employers with 50 employees for each working day during each of 20 or more calendar workweeks in the current or preceding calendar year within a 75-mile radius. If you meet those criteria, then you would be a covered employer. A covered employer must provide for up to 12 weeks of leave per year for employees with at least one year of service working at least 1250 hours for time off for medical leave of the employee who is unable to work because of a serious illness, taking care of an immediate family member with a serious condition, or birth or care of a newborn or child placed in the home. During this time, benefits are to continue as with active employees and a job is to be preserved for the returning employee. In January of this past year, the President amended the FMLA to now include the following: • To provide up to 26 weeks to eligible employees to care for recovering injured or ill spouse, son, daughter, parent, or next of kin who are members of the Armed Forces including National Guard or Reserves; and • To provide up to 12 weeks of leave because of any qualifying exigency arising out of the fact that a spouse, son, daughter, or parent of the eligible employee is or has been called to active duty in support of a contingency operation.

This means that your policies and procedures, form requests, and handbooks will need to be updated to reflect this latest change. Establish a process for supervisors or employees to inform you of these qualifying situations so that you can send notices and leave request forms as these come up. Have someone responsible to monitor leaves including intermittent leaves so that you can address those situations where employees will not be returning from leaves. It might be wise to have your attorney review your new policies and engage a human resource consultant experienced with FMLA issues to assist you in this process.

Q.

I have a group of employees that are always passing along information about the company—sometimes it is true, sometimes the information is false. This is not confidential or private information but just rumors. Is there anything I can do to stop this?

A.

This grapevine exists in almost every company. It would be hard to stop it but there may be some things you can do to reduce some of the possible negative impact on your staff: 1. Provide more information. If they hear the information from you first or you provide more truthful information, employees will more likely rely on you more and more.

2. Address misinformation quickly. When false information is propagated, take whatever steps necessary to immediately correct it whether it is memos, postings, or announcements at meetings. The issue here is to respond quickly.

3. Focus on facts. You may not need to disclose all information all the time but when you do, don’t lie. It is important to focus on true facts. If you don’t know all the information, say so.

4. Face the issues. The more important the topic, the more important it will be for you to face your employees in person. In those situations, don’t rely on memos.

If you have a question regarding your employees or human resources in general that you would like Kathy to answer, email us at judy@azlca.com. If selected, your question and response may be printed in an upcoming newsletter.

About the Author: Kathy Gromoll is the Human Resource Consultant for the law offices of Jaburg & Wilk, P.C., has her own consulting practice, and teaches at the University of Phoenix. She has her master’s degree and holds certifications in compensation, benefits, human resources, and management consulting.

Contact information: 512-626-2124 or gromoll@msn.com.

ACLP WORKSHOPS

Safely

Pruning/

Removing

Trees Prepared by Olivia Grider Professional Landcare Network (800) 395-2522 www.LandcareNetwork.org

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KEY POINTS: • Operating tools or machinery to trim or remove trees was the most common activity that resulted in landscape services worker fatalities from 2003 to 2006. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), of those who died on the job, 37 percent (288 people) were engaged in this type of work.

• Fatalities that occur when trimming/ removing trees typically are caused by workers falling from heights, being struck by falling objects, and being electrocuted.

• As with most occupational fatalities and injuries, accidents resulting from tree trimming/removal work can be prevented through hazard recognition and control, effective training, and proper selection and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Checklist for Employers and Supervisors:  Develop and implement safety programs that include written rules and safe work procedures for dealing with electrical hazards; climbing, felling, topping, and pruning trees; mobile equipment; hand and portable power tools; and fall protection equipment and other protective gear.  Have a supervisor at each job site conduct an initial and daily site survey before work begins to identify hazards and implement controls that address them.  Ensure employees maintain OSHAestablished minimum working distances from energized electric lines and conductors (see chart at the end of this newsletter) and follow established safe work procedures.

Contact the utility company to learn the voltage of overhead electric lines.  If a tree overhangs or is close to a street, provide employees with an aerial bucket truck to use when trimming the tree. Using a bucket truck is generally safer than climbing the tree. With climbing, the risk of falling is greater. Make sure workers wear appropriate fall protection when using aerial buckets.  Teach aerial bucket truck operators to safely use these vehicles. At a minimum, training should address all applicable OSHA and ANSI standards; hazards associated with hoisting personnel, equipment, and materials, especially near overhead electric lines; positioning of the boom to maintain minimum working distances from energized electric lines; and procedures for emergency situations, such as contact between the boom and energized power lines.

 Per OSHA regulation, plainly mark the functions of all controls for aerial boom platforms used primarily as personnel carriers.  When work must be performed within the electric-line minimum distances set by OSHA, or when an aerial bucket truck or other type of boom vehicle will operate near electric lines; notify the utility company. The company will work with you to determine the best options for protecting workers. Options include de-energizing and grounding the lines, and covering them with insulating hoses or blankets.  Prohibit use of conductive tools and materials such as metal pole pruners near electric lines and conductors. Supply workers with nonconductive alternatives (fiberglass or wood pole pruners, for example).  Provide employees with nonconductive PPE (headgear, gloves, etc.) when they work near overhead electric lines, and enforce its use.  Supply appropriate fall protection equipment, such as climbing rope and safety saddles, and ensure workers use it.  Appoint an appropriately trained person in every crew to inspect all equipment, including fall protection and ladders, before each use. Instruct him/her to remove damaged or defective devices from service and replace or repair them according to the manufacture’s specifications. (Broken ladders should be replaced, not repaired.) Replace climbing ropes and safety belts and straps every season. Also, train each employee to inspect his/her equipment prior to use.  Consider hiring an arborist to do tree jobs that require employees to work more than 20 feet above the ground. Only 20 to 30 percent of landscape companies perform work over that height.  Ask your insurance agent whether you are covered for “treepruning” or “arborist” work and get “yes” answer in writing.

Employees Dos and Don’ts DO: • Follow all rules and safe work procedures established by your employer. If you are unsure of the guidelines regarding pruning/removing trees, ask your employer or supervisor for a copy of the written safety policy.

• Wear all PPE and fall-protection equipment required by your employer.

• Inspect trees and tree limbs for structural weakness prior to climbing or cutting.

• Use safe climbing procedures. These include breaking or cutting off dead limbs while climbing, placing hands and feet on separate limbs, limiting shinning distance to 15 feet, and taking special care not to inadvertently cut climbing ropes, lanyards, and safety belts and straps.

• Realize most overhead electric lines are uninsulated.

• Examine all equipment, including fall protection, before each use. Pay special attention to spark plug caps on trimmers and other tools you’ll use to prune trees and bushes.

The rubber caps often become worn, which can result in you being shocked while using the tool. If this happens, your instinct will be to drop the equipment, which will likely cut your legs or feet.

Don’t • •

•

• • • •

Violate electric line minimum working distance established by OSHA (See chart below for distances.)

Assume overhead electric lines are de-energized.

Avoid all contact, both direct and indirect, until the utility company verifies the lines are no longer energized.

Use conductive tools or materials, (metal pole pruners, for instance) near electric lines or conductors. Substitute nonconductive devices made of wood or fiberglass.

Use damaged, defective, or worn equipment or fallprotection devices. Bring such equipment to the attention of your supervisor.

Climb on a branch if you’re not confident it will support your weight.

Jump off ladders or climb up or down them while holding things. Have a coworker hand you tools, materials, etc, or use a hoisting rope.

Operate an aerial bucket unless you have been trained to do so.

Minimum working distances from energized conductors for tree trimmers as established by 29 CFR 1910.268(q)(2)iv) Voltage range (volts) (phase to phase)

Minimum working distance

2,100-15,000

2 ft, 0 in.

15,100-35,000

2 ft, 4 in.

35,100-46,000

2 ft, 6 in.

46,100-72,500

3 ft, 0 in.

72,600-121,000

3 ft, 4 in.

138,000-145,000

3 ft, 6 in.

161,000-169,000

3 ft, 8 in.

230,000-242,000

5 ft, 0 in.

345,000-362,000

7 ft, 0 in.

500,000-552,000

11 ft, 0 in.

700,000-765,000

15 ft, 0 in.

MEMBER UPDATES

Spring Flowers Bring Back Aromatic Memories

By Beth Gosnell, All Seasons Wholesale Growers

O

ne of my earliest memories is the drive my family would take sometime in the spring to visit the Japanese flower gardens on Baseline Road. We lived on the west side of Phoenix and driving east on Baseline Road, the excitement would build as everyone waited for that sweet smell to hit our nostrils. Then, as we drove closer, we would see what looked like an ocean but in neat rows of different colors. Long waves of pink, white, and purple stock standing tall in full bloom. And behind them, the sweat peas in mounds of multi-colored little gems.

It stretched for miles and to a young child seemed even bigger than it actually was. If you also grew up in the Phoenix area, shut your eyes and just remember this scene and the wonderful fragrance that came with it.

Now, open your eyes and return to 2010 where the majority of us do not have the time or place for old-school annuals in our landscape designs. The good news is there are some great plants available that will provide spring/summer color plus an intoxicating or unique fragrance.

There are so many but below are some my favorites.

Acacia farnesiana/smallii Sweet acacia – this moderate size tree with a delicate leaf structure is my indicator that winter is coming to an end and spring is on its way. When I walk through the nursery – I am almost knocked over by the sweet smell of the bright yellow puffballs. Although, the little balls can create some temporary litter in the landscape, I think the fragrance is well worth it.

Chrysactinia mexicana Damianita daisy – it is used regularly in our landscapes and is known for its pungently fragrant foliage. Not only will this little small shrub give you spring and fall color but the dark green leaves are a nice contrast to the gray/green plants used in desert landscape design.

Artemesia species Wormwood - this is one of my all-time favorites and I think very under utilized. There are many varieties but my favorite is ‘Powis Castle.’ This ground cover, small shrub has light gray foliage and sets off its fragrance if brushed by your pant leg walking past. It looks very similar to dusty miller with a broader spread but will take full sun exposure thriving in summer heat. The gray foliage is very striking when coupled with other flowering shrubs.

PHOTO BY: SCOTT ZONA

Trachelospermum jasminoides Star jasmine – as with most jasmine, this vine is extremely fragrant. Spring brings on a mass of tiny, white, star-shaped flowers with a very sweet aroma. It grows best in shade or protected from direct sun with plenty of water. My favorite use for it is on a trellis beside a high traffic area, preferably a door or window so you are confronted by the scent every time you walk by.

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PHOTO BY: KRETYEN

Berlandiera lyrata Chocolate flower – this is a delicate ground cover with daisy-like flowers that blooms in spring and into summer. It is drought tolerant and cold hardy. Suprisingly, it’s blossoms smell just like chocolate and, come on, who doesn’t like chocolate.

Sophora secundiflora Texas Mountain Laurel –when this large, background shrub sends out it’s clusters of purple, sweat-peak like flowers at the end of Spring, this plant really stands out in the landscape as a favorite.

It is a low water user and with some patience (it is a slow grower) will create a wonderful hedge or small tree. I have heard many descriptions for the blossoms but my favorite is a childhood drink we can all remember – Grape Kool-Aid. Senna didymobotrya Popcorn cassia – this is more of an oddity than one that we can all use in a landscape but if you want something interesting for your own back yard, this is a great plant.

I first learned of this plant when my mother brought it home as an impulse buy. She saw it, smelled it and had to have one, even though we lived in a small townhouse and had no room for it. This shrub can grow 10-12 feet tall and 6-8 foot wide. The flowers are typical of a Senna but the foliage smells just like hot, buttered popcorn.

MEMBER UPDATES

IRS Updates & News Releases Looking for the Latest Info? Visit Tax Season 2010

http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=217826,00.html Visit the IRS Tax Season 2010 web page for news releases, fact sheets, tax tips, YouTube video and podcasts with the latest information for tax filing season 2010.

New IRS Small Business Workshop Available Online

http://www.tax.gov/virtualworkshop/ The new Virtual Small Business Tax Workshop is now available online -- it is composed of nine interactive lessons designed to help new small business owners learn their tax rights and responsibilities. Lessons include what you need to know about federal taxes and your new business, how to set up and run your business so paying taxes isn’t a hassle, how to file and pay your taxes using a computer, and what you need to know when you run your business out of your home. The workshop will also be available on CD in January 2010 – you can preorder a copy of Publication 1066C here.

2010 Tax Calendar for Small Businesses Available Online in English or Spanish

http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=176080,00.html The 2010 IRS Tax Calendar for Small Businesses and the Self-Employed is now available on IRS.gov. You may view it online, or print a copy out.

Unfortunately, the pre-printed calendars (Publication 1518) are already out of stock and can no longer be ordered.

IRS Announces Streamlined and Simplified Notices to Taxpayers

http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=218133,00.html IRS has unveiled its first redesigned notices that are part of an on-going effort to improve the way it corresponds with taxpayers. Nine notices will feature the new design format beginning in January. These notices account for approximately 2 million pieces of correspondence with individuals, businesses and exempt organizations. A revised web page is available at www.irs. gov/notices. These notices are among the first to be reviewed and revised for clarity, effectiveness and efficiency. The agency also will create an office that ensures the effort to improve communications is on-going and permanent.

The new format includes a plain language explanation of the nature of the correspondence, clearly states what action the taxpayer must take and presents a consistent, clean design. The new format also guides taxpayers to appropriate pages on IRS.gov where they can find accurate and relevant information quickly and easily. By reducing the potential for confusion, these notices will improve the taxpayers’ ability to get problems resolved quickly, and improve overall compliance.

New Homebuyer Credit Form Released; Taxpayers Reminded to Attach Settlement Statement and Other Key Documents

http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=218336,00.html Form 5405, First-Time Homebuyer Credit and Repayment of the Credit, and the related instructions are now available – this is the new form that eligible homebuyers need to claim the first-time homebuyer credit this tax season. The IRS also announced new documentation requirements to deter fraud related to the first-time homebuyer credit. The new form and instructions follow major changes in November to the homebuyer credit by the Worker, Homeownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009. The new law

extended the credit to a broader range of home purchasers and added new documentation requirements to deter fraud and ensure taxpayers properly claim the credit. Taxpayers claiming the homebuyer credit must file a paper tax return because of the added documentation requirements – see the full article for a list of documentation.

Also see the new Publication 4819, Important Information about FTHBC, on IRS.gov at: http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p4819.pdf

Free File Now Available to Almost All Taxpayers; Software Can Help Find New Economic Recovery Tax Breaks that Could Be Overlooked

http://www.irs.gov/irs/article/0,,id=218318,00.html The Internal Revenue Service and its private-sector partners are making Free File available. Most taxpayers can have free use of helpful tax preparation software and free electronic filing of the federal tax returns. There are many new tax breaks this filing season and Free File software can make it easier for people to find all the credits and deductions they are due. Taxpayers must go through www.IRS.gov homepage or www.IRS.gov/freefile to access the free options. The Free File program provides free federal income tax preparation and electronic filing for eligible taxpayers through a partnership between the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Free File Alliance LLC, a group of approximately 20 private sector tax software companies. Free File comes in two formats: Traditional Free File, which is available to taxpayers who meet specific criteria and Free File Fillable Forms, which is available to almost all taxpayers. Approximately 70 percent of the nation’s taxpayers, some 98 million people who meet the $57,000 income limit, are eligible for the user-friendly Traditional Free File. Traditional Free File provides step-by-step software help that asks simple questions and puts the answers on the correct tax forms.

IRS e-file: It’s Safe; It’s Easy; It’s Time

http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=218319,00.html IRS e-file, the popular electronic tax return delivery service used by twothirds of the nation’s taxpayers, opens for business January 15 and marks 20 years of safely and securely transmitting nearly 800 million individual federal tax returns. The Internal Revenue Service debuted e-file nationally in 1990, delivering 4.2 million tax returns. Last year, IRS e-file delivered 95 million tax returns, 66 percent of all returns filed.

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ALCA MEMBER PROFILE

Ewing and You in 2010: Surge to the Finish Line!

On January 17, 2010, more than 240 Ewing employees, family and friends finished the P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon and ½ Marathon. Running those 13.1 and 26.2 miles took strength we weren’t sure we had, but when we reached the last mile we each surged and pushed ourselves through because we knew the finish line was within reach.

With economists predicting economic recovery in 2011, we believe this is your year to surge through the economic downturn, and Ewing is here to ensure you cross the finish line stronger and better than ever. Let us help you add landscape lighting, paver installation and maintenance, water features and rainwater harvesting, and smart irrigation retrofits to your list of services. Head over or call your local branch to take advantage of these Ewing extras in 2010.

Nick Simms, Jeff Victorian and J.J. Markell got the party started for the 8th Annual Cardinals Victory BBQ Series at Ewing Mesa. The branch hosted a BBQ for Cards fans every Friday after each Arizona Cardinals win in the 2009-2010 NFL season.

Job Discovery Program

We know the competition for projects is tougher than ever, so Ewing is utilizing our resources to help loyal customers locate upcoming jobs. Once our estimating department identifies the materials needed for the project, we send the information to contractors in the program. It’s our way of helping contractors find projects and get estimates with ease.

Expand Your Services with Techniseal

Can you offer your clients maintenance for their paved patios, driveways and paths, or a one-time cleaning? Learn the correct methods for applying cleaners and sealers to interlocking pavers this year with Ewing’s Techniseal Applicators Certification Class.

Paver installation contractors can also add to their business with paver sealing and maintenance visits throughout the year.

Soil Testing

If you have turf or plants that aren’t growing like they should be, the problem may be right under your feet. Just bring in a small sample of the soil and we will send it to the lab for testing. Within seven to 10 days, you will receive a soil condition report.

Our experts can create a custom fertilizer program based on the results, helping you make your client’s landscape the best it can be.

More than 240 people in Team Ewing, including Ewing employees, vendors, family and friends, finished the P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon and ½ Marathon in January and donated $25,000 to Autism Speaks.

Chris Sinacori from Ewing demonstrates a clay brick installation for a batter’s box at Camelback Ranch in Glendale. Ewing and Turface brought sports field managers from across the country for a day of sports field workshops in November.

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Maximize Your Education in March

Register for these upcoming workshops at www.EwingEducationServices.com. For more information on the education services we offer, please email us at education@ ewing1.com or call your local branch for upcoming classes.

Ewing was able to help make the holidays more special for a Phoenix family in need. Santa and employees from Ewing headquarters in Phoenix delivered a van full of gifts to the Tapia family in December.

Ewing’s new blog, Waterblogged, is our take on all-things-water and other Green Industryrelated topics, issues and trends.

Intro to Irrigation Maintenance & Water Management – FREE

March 9, Central Phoenix | March 10, Surprise | March 11, Mesa Discover the fundamentals behind conducting a site evaluation, how to quickly lay out irrigation projects from complex plans, troubleshoot valve issues and more.

Irrigation Maintenance & Water Management - $59

Our Way of Saying Thanks

Ewing and Hunter want to say thanks for your business with a day of fun for you and the family. Join us for the Hunter/Ewing Day at the Park on April 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kiwanis Community Park in Tempe, Ariz. Enjoy food, drinks, a bounce house for the kids, fishing, basketball, horseshoes and more.

Contractors, landscape architects and others learn how to build an Aquascape RainXchange subsurface rainwater harvesting system at the Ewing Tucson branch in October.

March 16, Phoenix Learn advanced drip irrigation strategies and discover how to navigate the waters of as-built designs, interpret blueprints and quickly and accurately lay out projects.

Irrigation Design Class - $79

March 23, Phoenix Learn how to size irrigation components, group heads into zones and calculate an irrigation schedule without having to memorize difficult formulas.

Online Specials and Waterblogged

November 27, 2009 marked Ewing’s first ever Black Friday sale; but it wasn’t at any of our branches—it was only available online! We offered deep discounts on tools, lights and irrigation products on online orders at www.ewing1. com and had the purchases ready for pick-up at the branches on the following Monday. If you missed out on these specials, be sure to give your branch your email address for next time!

In January, Ewing also launched a new website for our news and media, pressroom.ewing1.com, featuring Waterblogged, our blog for all-thingswater, and other Green Industry-related topics and trends. Check it out for tips and insight from our industry experts.

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ALCA BULLETIN BOARD MEMBER MIXER ASSET LANDSCAPING, INMAN AND SONS & NATIONAL AUTO MART sponsor the first ALCA member mixer of the year.

Nearly 100 ALCA members and guests started the year off by enjoying great food and great company at Maggiano’s Little Italy Restaurant.

Asset Landscaping was formed in 1995 with a focus primarily in multifamily housing landscape maintenance. Since that time Asset Landscaping has excelled in the challenging HOA industry. With leading edge technology in telecommunications and mobile computing, customer service representatives focus on quick turn around on all customer requests. Empowering field supervisors to be creative with resources, both manpower and equipment, efficiency is increased every day.

This type of customer service has really spoiled our commercial customers. While Asset Landscaping is proud of the service they provide their customers, they are also proud of the charities they support such as Green Care for Troops which relatively speaking is just a small contribution to our troops in harm’s way. Also the Susan G. Komen 3-Day, Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center, Autism Speaks, Hope Kids, and Cardinals Charities. Asset also commits resources to events sponsored by other trade organizations throughout the valley. Keeping with the family business theme, spring, fall, and holiday parties are usually a huge back yard BBQ. Each month annual service anniversaries are recognized and during the weekly service and safety meetings crews with customers that take the time to call or write with complimentary feedback are recognized with a certificate and lunch.

As costs rise and customers want more for less, Asset Landscaping has learned to do more with less and has taught willing clients how to do the same. Landscaping is a buildings’ or communities “first impression” and the need to keep it in good shape is paramount to getting through this economy. Once clients learn that our business is not so unlike theirs, we can work with them to meet their budgetary needs and minimize the overall effect of the landscape. In 2010 Asset Landscaping is looking forward to supporting the Arizona Landscape Contractors Association in its effort to bring more clout to the landscape industry.

National Auto Mart is Arizona’s largest used commercial fleet dealer. They are a family owned business located in Phoenix supporting the local business community. National Auto Mart opened their dealership in 1980 with a goal to provide the best quality used vehicles at the lowest price possible. Their specialty is buying and selling off-lease commercial fleet vehicles such as Cargo Vans, Service Trucks, Box Trucks & Flat Beds. In addition they carry a full line of off lease passenger vehicles such as Sedans, Mini-vans & SUV’s. Visit them at www. nationalautomart.com or call 602-484-7055.

Inman and Sons Auto and Truck Center provides a full range of service to help you with your vehicles, whether you have one vehicle or an entire fleet.

They have been in business since 1994, offering their customers honest and reliable service. They go above and beyond for all of their customers, offering FREE pickup and delivery as well as airport drop off. This is just some of the reasons why their customers always come back to them. The Inman family is committed to customer service. They have been conducting business in the Phoenix area for over 65 years and have some 3rd and 4th generation customers in the local area.

And they pride themselves in employing ASE certified technicians that use the latest of diagnostic and repair equipment. Visit them at www.inmanandsons.com or call (602) 277-5396.

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All Season Wholesale Growers

Wholesale grower of quality annual color, shrubs and trees

Beth Gosnell 602-276-0230 phone 602-276-0660 fax 6623 South 32nd Street, #4 Phoenix, AZ 85042 beth@allseasongrowers.com

Our Reputation Starts With You

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MEMBER MIXERS CHEMICAL PRODUCTS / RELATED SERVICES

Univar USA, Inc.

LIGHTING

TRUCK BODIES, TRAILER PARTS & EQUIPMENT

Focus Industries

(480) 894-5323 www.univarpps.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................22 EROSION CONTROL/HYDROSEEDING

Western Sere

(888) 448-SERE www.westernsere.com

Auto Safety House LLC

(888) 882-1350 www.focusindustries.com

(602) 269-9721 www.autosafetyhouse.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................21

Please see our ad on page.........................................6

FX Luminaire

(858) 535-8000 www.fxl.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................23

Please see our ad on page.........................................3 IRRIGATION PRODUCTS/SYSTEMS

DIG Corp.

(800) 322-9146 www.digcorp.com

AD INDEX All Season Wholesale Growers.......................................21 Arid Zone Trees..............................................................22 Auto Safety House LLC..................................................... 6 Bingham Equipment Company.......................................... 4 DIG Corp.......................................................................... 3 Evergreen Turf, Inc........................................... Back Cover Ewing Irrigation................................................................. 2 Focus Industries...............................................................21 FX Luminaire...................................................................23 Horizon...........................................................................21 International Wholesale Pottery...................................... 19 Target Specialty Products.................................................. 5 Univar USA, Inc...............................................................22 Western Sere..................................................................... 3 Western Sod....................................................................23

NURSERIES

All Season Wholesale Growers (602) 276-0230 www.allseasongrowers.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................21

Please see our ad on page.........................................3

Ewing Irrigation (800) 343-9464 www.ewing1.com

Arid Zone Trees

(480) 987-9094 www.aridzonetrees.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................22

Please see our ad on page.........................................2

Horizon

POTTERY

International Wholesale Pottery

(800) PVCTURF www.horizononline.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................21 LANDSCAPE EQUIPMENT

(602) 454-0528 www.iwpottery.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................19 SOD/TURF

Bingham Equipment Company (480) 610-4082 www.binghamequipment.com

Please see our ad on page.........................................4

Evergreen Turf, Inc.

(480) 456-1199 www.evergreenturf.com

Please see our ad on page........................ Back Cover

Western Sod

LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES

(800) 832-TURF www.westernsod.com

Target Specialty Products (800) 352-3870 www.target-specialty.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................23

Please see our ad on page.........................................5

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Variety ‘AZT’

Quality, Uniform, Desert Adapted Trees

SIMPLY THE BEST Prosopis Hybrid ‘AZT’ Thornless Mesquite Cercidium praecox ‘AZT’ Sonoran Palo Verde Olneya tesota ‘AZT’ Desert Ironwood Cercidium Hybrid ‘AZT’ Thornless Hybrid Palo Verde Chilopsis linearis ‘AZT Bi-Color’ Desert Willow Chilopsis linearis ‘AZT Desert Amethyst’ Desert Willow Cercidium Hybrid ‘DM’ Desert Museum Hybrid Palo Verde* *AZT propagates the ‘Desert Museum’ with the guidance and permission of the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Specimen Trees for Desert Landscapes

ARID ZONE TREES

phone (480) 987-9094 fax (480) 987-9092 e-mail: e-mail:information@aridzonetrees.com aridzonetrees@msn.com

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