ALCA Influence March April 2012 by Association Outsource Services, Inc.

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 2012

Shade Phoenix 2030 PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

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A Few of Our Favorite Things from Waldrons Farm cover photo: The Children’s Secret Garden by Wickenburg Landscape & Irrigation, Inc.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

March/April 2012

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

President’s Message............................................................. 4 Committees and Directors..................................................... 4 CEO Message..................................................................... 6 DIRT University..................................................................... 6 ALCA Sponsors.................................................................... 6 Calendar............................................................................ 8 New Members..................................................................... 8 Member Updates................................................................. 9 ALCA 2011 Excellence Awards........................................... 10 ACLP Schedule.................................................................. 12 Pain in the Back................................................................. 13 ALCA Field Day................................................................. 13 ALCA Profile: Ewing........................................................... 14 ALCA Profile: Southwest Sod............................................... 15 A Few of our Favorite Things............................................... 16 Phoenix Shade 2030.......................................................... 17 It Takes a Village................................................................ 18 ALCA Golf Tournament....................................................... 18 ALCA Financial Analysis Workshop...................................... 19 ALCA Member Mixer.......................................................... 21 Resource Guide................................................................. 22 2012 BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Matthew Johnson

PUBLICATION Advertising

President Elect

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Asset Landscaping

Design

Asset Landscaping

Tony Acosta

Vice President

Lori Mattas

ILM

Printing

Robert Clinkenbeard

Secretary

Copeland Printing

Neill-Vecchia & Associates

Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association

Kim Kleski

Treasurer

Steve Shields

Hill & Usher Insurance & Surety

Chief Executive Officer Judy Gausman

judy@AZLCA.com

Irrigation Management Control Systems Powered by Ambient Light

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

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.

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March/April 2012

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Maximize Your Membership

L Matthew Johnson 2012 ALCA President

ast issue I touched on some items that the ALCA Board of Directors would be tackling this year, and I am excited about each and every one of them. To ensure success, there will be a lot of work behind the scenes. This is where you come in! An association is here to benefit your business regardless of membership type. As a contractor, you want to increase professionalism, knowledge, skills, and productivity. In other words, make more money in a more intelligent way. As an associate, you want to show how professional, knowledgeable, and skillful you are to attract business. The best return on your investment is to be involved with your association. While ALCA has been known for having well attended, friendly mixers, this is not even close to the balance of activities to get involved in. There is a committee for just about everything that happens in your association. Choose a committee that pertains to your interests, skills, or curiosity. You would be amazed what

you can learn and apply to your own business by getting involved. Available time is of course a concern, however, most committees are full of people with the same concern. Respect for everyone’s time is important so meetings are not normally time wasters. While this is volunteer time, it is also when you work side by side with contractors and associates developing long lasting relationships that many times make profitable business relationships or profitable friendships. Either way leads to a successful outcome with multiple benefits. I encourage both contractors and associates to join a committee, volunteer to teach a class, help out with an activity and increase your sphere of influence. Call it networking, philanthropy, or a learning experience, but take advantage of the opportunity that is available to you and make the most out of your membership. Matthew Johnson, ALCA President

ALCA COMMITTEES & DIRECTORS AZ Certified Landscape Professional (ACLP)

Insurance & Safety

The ACLP program provides monthly workshops that cover the foundation components that are considered basic and accepted knowledge for a landscape worker in today’s landscaping industry. Those students who pass the exam in all areas will become certified.

The Insurance and Safety Committee shall promote SCF and workplace safety to make the SCF Program available to its members. It is responsible to fulfill the SCF contract requirements to ensure that the participating members receive the highest dividend obtainable.

Awards

Membership

Assist in the planning and coordination of the “Excellence in Landscaping” Awards Program including: reviewing awards application, judging, silent auction, determining special awards, and working with entertainment coordinator for production.

Recruit new members and promote and achieve awareness of membership benefits to existing members. Develop and maintain informational material which describes the benefits of membership. Communicate with former members and perform an exit interview. Communicate with members and encourage participation in all events.

Finance

Program

Review budgets and help develop appropriate procedures for budget preparations, recommend financial guidelines, design financial reports and ensure that reports are accurate and timely, oversee short and long-term investments, and assist CPA on tax returns.

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Government Affairs

Public Relations

Director - Beth Gosnell/All Season Wholesale Nursery beth@allseasongrowers.com

Director - Dwight Faires/San Tan Landscape Management dwight@santanlandscape.com

Director - Steve Shields/Hill & Usher Insurance & Surety - steves@hillusher.com

Director - Matthew Johnson/Asset Landscaping - Matthew@assetlandscaping.com

Address activities at the state and local levels of government to ensure the laws and regulations by which landscape and lawn care professionals must abide are reasonable and responsible and do not unduly burden their member companies.

Director - Jim Trog/Four Peaks Landscape Management jimtrog@fourpeakslandscape.com

Director - David Spector/TLC – The Landscape Company - david@aztlc.com

Directors -Nate Gould/Hunter Industries - ngould@hunterindustries.com &

Coordinate and schedule programs and special events including community projects, monthly member mixers, New Member Recruitment/Mini Trade Show Night, Field Day, and Golf Tournaments. Director - Tony Acosta/Asset Landscaping – tacosta@assetlandscaping.com

Create and monitor website content and social media avenues. Brand ALCA logo and tagline and develop marketing strategies for all ALCA programs.

Sustainable Landscape Management (SLM)

Director - Robert Clinkenbeard/ILM - rclinkenbeard@ILM-LLC.com

Provide education workshops for Sustainable Landscape Management that employs practices which strive to preserve limited and valuable natural resources such as water and plant materials reduce waste generation and strive for longevity and maturity of plant materials. Those students who pass the exam will become certified.

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

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CEO’S MESSAGE

Judy Gausman ALCA CEO

Bob Dylan and ALCA

hat do Bob Dylan and ALCA have in common? You guessed it – Sustainability. At the same time Bob Dylan was revolutionizing popular music with hits such as “Blowin’ In The Wind” and “Like A Rolling Stone”, ALCA was growing roots and became established and incorporated in the early ’60’s. The Never Ending Tour is a popular name for Bob Dylan’s ceaseless performing schedule. During the past twenty-three years, musicians have come and gone and the band has continued to evolve. Although one could argue Dylan’s vocals are a bit nasal and scratchy, his touring schedule has not been diminished by his age — he turned seventy in 2011 and still plays around 100 shows a year. Forty-nine years since its inception, ALCA too has seen Board members come and go, but they created a strong foundation which has grown into a network of over 360 professional businesses. The mission remains the same; ALCA is dedicated to helping landscape contractors by promoting continued education, effective business practices and networking opportunities, and ensuring responsible legislation to continuously improve the landscape industry. ALCA’s membership has grown by nearly 500% in the past 10 years. In 2011, attendance to the AZ Certified Landscape Professional (ACLP) workshops doubled from 456 to 910 participants. And in January of 2012, the Sustainable Landscape Management (SLM) program kicked off with a mighty force. With 9 workshops scheduled, nearly 200 people representing over 80 companies have attended or plan to attend the four hour workshop to earn their SLM certification. Current and perspective clients will be able to recognize who is trained in these programs by going to the ALCA website at www.AZLCA.com. As you can see by the list of new members in this issue, ALCA will sustain for years and years to come. And as for Bob Dylan, his lyrical songs are his legacy and will be relevant for ages. Well this is where I was going to end with a Bob Dylan quote; however, they were all 15 minutes long! Respectfully Submitted, Judy Gausman, CEO

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

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Platinum Sponsors Bingham Equipment Company Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock DIRT DLC Resources, Inc. Evergreen Turf, Inc. Ewing Irrigation Products Horizon Distribution Inc. Hunter Industries/FX Luminaire John Deere Landscapes Rain Bird Corporation Rodeo Ford The Toro Company/Irritrol/Unique Lighting Systems

Special Thank You to our 2012 ALCA

Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

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Silver Sponsors Southwest Sod, Inc. West Coast Turf

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March/April 2012

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

MEMBER UPDATES

2012

Calendar of Events March 2

SLM Certification Training, Tucson

SLM Certification Training, ALCA Office

ACLP Annuals & Perennials Workshop, Mesa

ACLP Annuals & Perennials Workshop, Phoenix

ACLP Annuals & Perennials Workshop, Tucson

Phoenix Member Mixer Sponsored by Mountain States Wholesale Nursery and Enviro Control

SLM Certification Training, ALCA Office

ALCA Board of Director’s Meeting

April 7

ACLP Sod Laying & Turf Identification Workshop, Mesa

ACLP Sod Laying & Turf Identification Workshop, Phoenix

ACLP Sod Laying & Turf Identification Workshop, Tucson

ALCA Field Day, SRP’s Pera Club

Phoenix Member Mixer Sponsored by We Rock AZ!

SLM Certification Training, ALCA Office

Tucson Member Mixer

SLM Certification Training, ALCA Office

May

ACLP Tree Pruning Workshop, Mesa

ACLP Tree Pruning Workshop, Phoenix

DIRT University

ACLP Tree Pruning Workshop, Tucson

Phoenix Member Mixer Sponsored by Chapman Chevrolet & Sun Country Truck Equipment

ALCA Golf Tournament, Quintero Golf club, Peoria

ALCA Board of Director’s Meeting

Financial Analysis Workshop, ALCA Office

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

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New Members Arizona Benefit Consultants Joanna Morrow 6245 N 24th Pkwy #201, Phoenix, AZ 85016 Phone: 602-956-5515 Email: jmorrow@abcllc.org Profile: provides consulting services to employers in areas such as employee benefit planning & design, risk management (general liability), executive compensation, health & wellness, payroll administration, and Human Resource management. Arizona Royal Landscaping & Design Mike Biesemeyer 840 E Southern Ave, Bldg#1, Mesa, AZ 85204 Phone: 480-813-0095 • Fax: 480-219-1106 Email: mike@azroyal.com Profile: Commercial & Residential Installation and Maintenance Barrera Landscaping and Design, LLC Laurie Hernandez 5439 W La Mirada Dr Laveen, AZ 85339 Phone: 602-243-9980 Fax: 602-276-3811 Email: barreralandscaping@msn.com Profile: We are a family owned landscaping company for Commercial & Residential Landscaping Maintenance. We service valley wide for all your landscaping needs. Desert Appeal Landscape, LLC Miguel Hernandez 2320 E Baseline Rd, Ste 148, Phoenix, AZ 85042 Phone: 480-570-5754 • Fax: 480-393-1808 Email: desertappeal@yahoo.com Profile: Desert Appeal provides commercial and residential landscape construction and commercial maintenance services. Desert Green Creations Jeff Nielsen 404 E Papago Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281 Phone: 480-994-1699 • Fax: 480-941-2906 Email: jeffnielsen@cox.net Profile: Installation of landscape / design / irrigation and lighting installations / hardscape specialist French Accent Landscaping, Inc. Christophe Martelly 36879 N 38th St, Cave Creek, AZ 85331 Phone: 602-482-8211 • Fax: 480-575-6141 Email: Chris@FrenchAccentLandscaping.com Profile: Landscape contracting company: Landscape design, landscape installation, lighting, irrigation, masonry work GPM Landscape Cameron Chandler P O Box 86955 Phoenix, AZ 85080 Phone: 602-469-0652 • Fax: 602-368-8693 Email: Cameron@gpmlandscape.com Profile: Landscape Maintenance GreenPro Michael Martin 3450 S 36th St, Phoenix, AZ 85040 Phone: 602-437-1356 • Fax: 602-437-1357 Email: michaelm@greenproaz.com Profile: Commercial Maintenance Greens Whisperer Christine Clark PO Box 26371, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Phone: 480-285-8570 Email: Christine@greenswhisperer.com Profile: new residential maintenance contractor in north Scottsdale area.

Paradise Wholesale Nursery Charlie Kendall 14337 N 75th Ave, Peoria, AZ 85381 Phone: 623-979-7870 • Fax: 623-979-4325 Email: cskendallpwn@aol.com Profile: wholesale plant nursery Peak Landscape Mark Jebb 4848 E Cactus Rd, Ste 505, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 Phone: 480-812-8800 • Fax: 480-857-9301 Email: mark@azpeaklandscape.com Profile: Commercial Landscape Maintenance Premier Landscaping Services, LLC Ryan Van Dyck PO Box 89030, Tucson, AZ 85752 Phone: 520-797-0546 • Fax: 520-334-1477 Email: info@premierlandscaping.info Profile: We are a full service landscaping company Quality Growers Neal Brooks 1150 W Baseline Rd Phoenix, AZ 85041 Phone: 480-381-1074 • Fax: 602-305-9428 Email: mygrowersmarket@gmail.com Profile: wholesale grower; commercial landscape management Republic Gardens, LLC David Serwit PO Box 1665, Queen Creek, AZ 85142 Phone: 480-237-9392 • Fax: 480-452-1558 Email: david@imagineplanbuild.com Profile: landscape design, pool design, installation, maintenance Rolling Rock Landscape James A Perlow 8364 W Desert Spoon Dr, Peoria, AZ 85383 Phone: 623-748-9581 Fax: 623-374-3399 Email: jperlow@rollingrocklandscape.com Profile: landscape contractor install; landscape maintenance Tenant Land Management, Inc. Jeff Burt 3317 S Higley Rd Gilbert, AZ 85297 Phone: 480-381-8564 Email: support@tenantlm.com Profile: Tenant Land Management is a fullservice Commercial Landscape Services company serving Arizona. We increase the value of every property we serve. Theresa Matteson 41 E Palmcroft Dr Tempe, AZ 85282 Phone: 480-202-3491 Email: terri@terrislandscape.com Profile: Individual Landscape Residential Designer University of Arizona – Grounds & Landscaping Luis Rocha 1610 N Vine Ave Tucson, AZ 85721 Phone: 520-621-1599 Fax: 520-621-6086 Email: rochal@email.arizona.edu

MEMBER UPDATES

Ewing Partners with the EPA to Promote Water Efficiency Ewing Irrigation has joined the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WaterSense Partner Program, reinforcing the company’s commitment to water efficiency and resource conservation. “The customers we serve have a significant opportunity to save water,” said Warren Gorowitz, vice president of sustainability and conservation for Ewing. “Our role is to help contractors understand the water efficient technologies out there, and how to properly install and manage them for optimal water savings.” With an estimated 1.5 billion gallons of water wasted each day through over irrigation and improper use, the goal of WaterSense is to decrease consumers’ indoor and outdoor water use by promoting high-efficiency products and simple water-saving practices. Gorowitz has been actively involved with the EPA’s

Kichler’s Design Pro LED Hardscape, Deck, Step and Bench Accent Lights Available in Three New Finishes New Finishes Coordinate Lighting with Most Popular Stone and Deck Colors

Kichler Lighting has expanded its offering of popular Design Pro LED Hardscape, Deck, Step & Bench Accent Lights with three new finishes to complement today’s most popular stone and deck colors. Perfect for illuminating retaining walls, columns, fences, bridges, decks, steps, handrails and a variety of other outdoor applications, these energy-efficient lights continue to offer versatility, durability and easy installation for landscape architects, installers and contractors. “These new colors meet contractors’ needs to efficiently light even the tightest spaces in a wider variety of stone and deck applications,” said Jeffrey Dross, Kichler’s corporate director of education and industry trends. “Additionally, they give homeowners the ambience desired for enjoying their outdoor living areas and the benefit of low maintenance.” New finish options include: • Sand (SD) – Ideal for sandstone, river rock and naturallytoned retaining walls or stone work, as well as lightcolored natural or composite decking. • Gray (GRY) – Great for slate, charcoal and other heather-toned retaining walls or stone work. Also ideal for clay, slate gray or smoky-colored composite and finished natural decking. • Textured White (WHT) – Use with white or ivory stone, white privacy fences, lattices, decking, pergolas, etc. This finish can also be used for wood and vinyl. With a 40,000-hour lifespan, Kichler’s hardscape lights emit a warm, white light using 75 percent less energy than incandescent lights. Available in three sizes (6.9”, 12.9” and 18.9”) with three, six and nine individual LEDs respectively, these energy efficient fixtures feature a slim 2/3” profile and low heat output. They are fully sealed and potted to resist moisture, as well as outdoor-rated powder paint-coated die cast aluminum or die cast brass for the ultimate weather protection. Additionally, they come with an unprecedented 15-year residential-use warranty on LED components. Hard-mounting with just two screws on virtually any surface, these fixtures offer easy installation. For hardscape applications, two types of accessory brackets allow for mounting on flat ledges and vertical surfaces. They can accommodate all varieties of retrofit and new-build applications. Kichler’s first product offering is also available in Textured Architectural Bronze, Bronzed Brass, and Copper finishes. View Kichler landscape products, as well as interactive electronic catalogs, at www.landscapelighting.com.

WaterSense program since its launch in 2006, and is eagerly anticipating the EPA’s final specification for WaterSense labeled smart controllers slated for release this November. “With the WaterSense label, we can extend our reach and reinforce our message that smart controllers can, when properly installed and managed, contribute to significant water savings,” said Gorowitz. Once the final specification for WaterSense labeled smart controllers is released, manufacturers may submit their smart controllers for testing. The EPA estimates they will reveal their first WaterSense labeled smart controllers by spring 2012. The WaterSense labeling of select smart controllers will likely lead to an increase in rebates available through water agencies, Gorowitz said.

LED

Path & Spread

“Ewing customers will be among the first to gain access to WaterSense labeled smart controllers,” said Gorowitz. Ewing recognizes the importance of water efficiency, and has focused on educating employees and customers on emerging technologies and best management practices since 2005. To date, WaterSense has helped consumers save a cumulative 125 billion gallons of water and over $2 billion in water and energy bills through the use of WaterSense labeled products. WaterSense, a partnership program sponsored by the EPA, helps protect valuable resources for future generations by making water efficiency a clear and preferred choice among consumers and businesses. By offering customers a selection of products that have earned the WaterSense label, Ewing is helping to preserve water for future generations while maintaining healthy, water-efficient green spaces.

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March/April 2012

1/27/12 3:12 PM THE ALCA INFLUENCE

ALCA LANDSCAPING AWARDS

Special Water Feature Residential Installation Sponsored by Rodeo Ford Award of Excellence

The Pond Gnome – Quackenbush Residence

Dr. Quackenbush purchased this North Scottsdale residence for his retirement home. When he contacted us, his first request was “…clean up the pond and repair any shortcomings.” The existing pond had a plethora of “shortcomings,” and would never truly be enjoyable. In fact, the only “right” thing was the location. The new goal: design a more appropriate, and sustainable, pond. The new pond features a rainwater harvesting system, energy efficient 24/7 circulation system feeding a constructed wetland filter, two short streams, and a waterfall. Three feet of crystal clear water is home to about thirty beautiful Koi and a large selection of emergent aquatic plants and blooming lilies. Much has been written about the dangers of using rainwater harvesting with Koi ponds, but after three storm events exceeding 1” of rain, we have yet to see any detrimental effects using this revolutionary system of storm water filtration.

SFR Installation $250,001 - $350,000 Sponsored by Mountain States Wholesale Nursery Award of Distinction

REALM– Saddlebrooke Xeriscape We believe the Saddlebrook Residence is a quintessential marriage of form and function. Design and construction of the Saddlebrook Residence included complete front and backyard installations. An outdoor fireplace with seat bench, grading and stonework, decorative planters, native plantings, an arbor, overhead canopy and passive water harvesting were elements in the design as well. Incorporation of the existing scenic mountain views was imperative in the design because we wanted to merge the property line with its natural setting.

Model Home Installation over $100,000 Sponsored by Chapman Chevrolet & Isuzu/Sun Country Truck Equipment Award of Distinction

Sunset Landscaping & Designs, Inc. – Pebble Creek Model Homes Creating the environment for any outdoor space requires an understanding of the needs of the owner. In this case, we were asked to design and construct the space required for an active adult community. We were given the task of identifying the needs for specific lifestyles within the community. The task included collaborating with the company interior designers and the corporate architects. Our responsibilities included all outdoor spaces including home placement on specific lots for specific model presentation and the selection of all materials used such as walk surfaces, tile selections and paint colors to compliment the interior designs. Plant material was selected to reflect the existing palate used in the community. Other palates were used to compliment the lifestyle and to keep the maintenance to a minimum. Plant material used was meant to achieve a mature size with little upkeep. Landscape designs of the specific models were based on individual lifestyles predetermined by the home builder. Working within a set budget for each model and the sales/design center gave us the parameters to work with. The models displayed ranged from the lowest end to the highest end of the spectrum to give a good representation of what was offered and what could be accomplished in the landscape. The model village was designed with a concept of “a walking tour” while allowing for rest areas along the way.

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

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ALCA LANDSCAPING AWARDS

Small Garden Installation Sponsored by BlueStar Landscape Award of Distinction

Wickenburg Landscape & Irrigation, Inc. – The Children’s Secret Garden This children’s garden was designed to be a quiet place to read classic stories to the grandkids. From the funny named plants like wooly butterfly bush, to the levels of French and English lavender, the concept was to incorporate the old world fairytale land into a quaint enclosed secret garden off the master bedroom. The desire was to have a sunken “room” surrounded by seat walls of varying heights so the grandkids, as they grew up, would still feel they were welcome and each child had their chosen “favorite” spot. There are many fairytale animals that have been incorporated into the landscape design. As this garden has matured over the past several years we believe we have achieved our vision, but only the reaction on the child’s face during the next story time will tell us if we have succeeded.

Commercial Maintenance $50,001 - $150,000 Sponsored by DHR Insurance Services Award of Distinction

AAA Landscape – Ventana Medical Systems

A place for science and discovery is well featured throughout this landscape. Coexisting with the surrounding native vegetation are atoms and nuclei sculptures which ironically create a striking fusion all its own. As you walk the grounds the larger than life sculptures and hints of color throughout the property allow for the possibilities of what could be. Seedlings are allowed to cultivate naturally which only enhance the property’s aesthetics. Using the landscape as a launching platform, creativity and ideas are stimulated. Saguaro spikes and Sundrops add fascination to the spherical silhouettes. This main entry offers a glimpse of discovery that waits within. The natural development of the landscape adds its own character next to the prominent sculptures. Color is infused in a way that sets this building apart all the while blending it naturally within its surroundings. Ventana Medical Systems is truly a place for imagination and reflection.

Judges Award

Integrated Landscape Management Happy Valley Towne Center

Judges Award

Gold Medal Landscape Management Crossroads Towne Center

CareScape Phoenix Art Museum

Judges Award

Clean Cut Landscape Management Vintage Ranch Homeowners Association

Judges Award

ABC Scapes / Warren Runcorn National Bank of Arizona March/April 2012

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

ACLP SCHEDULE

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

Annual and Perennials Workshop

March 10, 2012 Mesa Community College, Kirk Student Center, Kiva Room, 1833 W Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85202 March 14, 2012 U of A Cooperative Extension – 4341 E Broadway Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85040 March 17, 2012 Pima Community College, Bldg CC, Amethyst Community Room, 1255 N Stone Ave, Tucson What is it anyway? Through this course, students will learn how to create and maintain functional and pleasing color bed displays with annual and perennial plants. What will we learn and do? • Selection, pre-planting treatment and transportation of annuals • Bed preparation for annuals or herbaceous perennials including soil preparation, calculating amendments or mulch needed. • Understand the blooming season (cool or winter, hot or summer flowering plants) for common annuals and herbaceous perennials. • Proper planting techniques. • Pre and post irrigation techniques • Maintain a flower bed including irrigation, fertilization, pruning/deadheading, insect and disease control, weed control, mulching and basic trouble shooting. • Container/plastic recycling. • Identify and correct common disease, insect and abiotic problems • Frost preparation • Basic troubleshooting

Sod Laying and Turf Identification Workshop April 7, 2012

April 11, 2012 April 14, 2012

Mesa Community College, Kirk Student Center, Kiva Room, 1833 W Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85202 U of A Cooperative Extension – 4341 E Broadway Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85040 Pima Community College, Bldg CC, Amethyst Community Room, 1255 N Stone Ave, Tucson

What is it anyway? Through this course, students will learn ways to identify turf grasses, basic mechanical steps required to install sod and basic maintenance practices. What will we do? • Understand the varieties of turf grasses used in the desert southwest and identify them. • Conduct a satisfactory sod installation using basic mechanical steps. • Proper mowing techniques, thatch removal, over seeding, fertilization and irrigation requirements for various turfs. • Problem solving strategies for common turf grass problems. Instructors: Ursula Schuch – Annuals and Perennials Dr. Schuch is a Cooperative Extension Specialist and Professor in the School of Plant Sciences at the University of Arizona. She has statewide responsibilities in environmental horticulture and provides education through presentations, demonstrations, and publications 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. An ongoing research project in the Phoenix area investigates the minimum amount of water necessary to maintain functional and healthy landscape trees. Ursula Schuch earned a MS degree in forestry and a Ph.D. in horticulture. 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. David Jernigan – Annuals & Perennials Jernigan began his career by installing his first landscape project in Marion, Indiana in 1977. After fleeing Indiana, he bumped around the construction and landscape industry for years both in California and Arizona, until the early 90’s when the physical part of the job was taking its toll on his body. He became certified by the ISA which gave him a boost both in confidence and in wages, as well as his standing in the green industry. He then earned his pesticide applicators certification and his ACLP designation. He was invited to join the Board of ALCA and help with the ACLP certification exam. “I can say without a doubt that the ACLP program has made a real positive change in my life”, says Dave and adds, “I encourage you to take the first step to make that change in your career, too.” David Jernigan has been happily married for 14 years, and has 5 children. Their company “The Gardener’s Touch” specializes in upscale residential landscape maintenance in the central Phoenix area. T.J. Winzeler - Sod Laying and Turf ID T.J. Winzeler is a Regional Manager for DLC Resources, Inc. Born and raised in northwest Ohio, he relocated to Anthem, Arizona with his wife Donielle in 1998. They have three beautiful children; Zach (11), Haley (9), and Hannah (6). T.J. has an extensive background in agronomy, having worked in the golf business for 15 years. T.J. possesses a B.S. in Natural Resource Management and a minor in Molecular Genetics from The Ohio State University. While attending OSU, T.J. realized his desire to work in the golf course business which ultimately steered him to specialize in turfgrass. During college, T.J. worked as an intern for Jack Nickalaus at the New Albany C.C. located in Columbus, Ohio. The internship was instrumental in his ability to secure the Superintendent’s position at Arrowhead C.C. in Glendale, Arizona. This position would lead to his eventual last golf course position as Superintendent of Sanctuary at Westworld. T.J. has spent the better part of the last decade managing the Sanctuary, which is an Audubon International Signature Sanctuary. The Audubon program proved to be crucial in his development of using organic products to maintain the landscape. Throughout the course of T.J.’s career, he has continued to expand his knowledge of organics, discovering his passion for sustainable environmental management. It is this passion that he hopes to integrate into the management of the ACLP turf course. Don’t hesitate to call and ask him a question. He loves to explain what and why we are doing things the way we do! T.J. Winzeler can be reached at 602-762-0991 or email at tjw@dlcresources.com.

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MEMBER UPDATES SAFETY

Pain in the Back? Pay attention to lifting, weight, posture Provided by Tod Dennis, Association Coordinator

Back pain can affect anyone, and it is a common complaint among workers. In fact, MyOptumHealth.com reports that four out of five adults will experience lower back pain at some point in their lives, and it is one of the most common reasons for visiting a doctor. As strong as the back is, it often seems fragile because the spine comprises so many separate bones (vertebrae), a conglomeration of associated tendons and ligaments, and of course the vital nerves running through the vertebrae. Lifting an item incorrectly, reaching past your limits, sitting or standing too long in the same position can all cause back pain; so can being overweight. Pain from a muscle strain occurs most frequently from lifting a heavy object, lifting while twisting, or a sudden movement or fall. The pain is usually localized, and there may be muscle spasms or soreness. “You can avoid back injuries by using proper lifting techniques,” said Carl Hamilton SCF Arizona loss control consultant. He offered these tips when lifting: • Keep the load close to your body • Keep the load directly in front of you • Know your personal limitations and seek help if the object is too heavy • Visualize and communicate a simple plan of action prior to lifting • Keep your back as straight as possible • Bend at the knees • Raise up – using your legs – in a smooth, controlled manner • Avoid twisting or jerking the load as you lift Hamilton said other ways to avoid back pain at work include: • Change or shift positions frequently • Take periodic breaks away from your desk • Stretch periodically throughout the day • Adjust working heights to prevent slumping or excess reaching • When sitting, keep knees level with hips and support the lower back with firm cushioning Being overweight is another reason people suffer back pain. The extra pounds increase the load on the spine raising the risk of disk degeneration and other structural causes of lower back pain. According to MyOptumHealth.com, people who are obese may have an increased lumbar curvature in the spine, which is caused by abdominal fat pulling the lumbar spine forward and downward. Being overweight or obese can also contribute to symptoms associated with osteoporosis, osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), degenerative disc disease (DDD) and other spinal conditions. And according to the American Obesity Association, back pain is prevalent among the nearly one-third of Americans who are classified as obese. Maintaining correct posture at a work station, whether standing or sitting, is important to keep

the back from aching, Hamilton said. “Good posture comes from conscious effort,” he said. “Your mother was right when she told you to ‘Sit up straight.’” Any type of prolonged poor posture can increase the risk of developing back pain overtime, Hamilton said. That is why he recommends following “mother’s” advice. He said that by developing a holistic approach and by engaging a company wellness program, a company can focus on building better, healthier employees based on realistic exposures. Exercise can help to strengthen and stretch the back. When the abdominals and other muscles

that provide protection to the spine are out of shape, the back suffers. SCF Arizona’s resources of workplace safety materials include information on lifting safely, obesity in the workplace, ergonomics and back safety. These materials can be ordered online at scfaz.com. SCF Arizona is the state’s largest workers’ compensation insurer, providing coverage to the majority of businesses and their employees statewide. SCF has operated in Arizona since 1926 and holds in excess of $3 billion in assets. Based in Phoenix SCF, has a statewide presence. For more information about SCF Arizona, visit www.scfaz.com.

Field Day Saturday, April 14, 2012

10AM—2PM

SRP PERA CLUB—1 E Continental Dr—Tempe Enjoy fun and friendly competition of events for members of the green industry and their families! Volleyball Tug o’war Golf chipping shot Excavation Egg Skill Water balloon toss Petting zoo Tennis ball launch Basketball free throw BBQ picnic and much more! Enter in the Chili-Cook-Off competition for $150 cash prize!

$6 Adults/$3 children ages 3 to 12 Lots of great prizes will be raffled off at 1:30.

For more information or to register, contact the ALCA office 602-626-7091 / Kara@AZLCA.com March/April 2012

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

ALCA MEMBER PROFILE

Ewing

wing Irrigation provides landscape, irrigation and golf course professionals with the supplies they need to create healthy, sustainable environments. Founded in 1922 as an irrigation distributor, Ewing has changed with the times and now also offers water features, landscape lighting, erosion control supplies, and hardscape, agronomic and water management products. With 17 Arizona locations, Ewing is the convenient choice for your landscape and irrigation supplies. Ewing is active in the industry and in our communities, and we always strive to help our customers develop their skills and businesses. On January 15, 169 Ewing runners participated in the P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon and Half-Marathon, our eighth consecutive year of participation. We won first place in the GET FIT Challenge’s Corporate Large Division, a friendly team competition designed to get companies to train together. This was an accomplishment Ewing earned in 2011, as well. The marathon is also a display of giving. This year, Ewing donated $8,000 and employees raised $7,500 for Autism Speaks, the world’s largest autism advocacy group.

An additional service offered exclusively to Ewing customers is the Ewing Advantage Resource Network (EARN) program. EARN gives you a competitive advantage, connecting you with companies that provide discounted products and business services designed to protect, enhance and more efficiently operate your business. Here are just a few of our EARN service provider partners: HindSite Field Management Software – A paperless system designed to help you more efficiently manage your irrigation or landscaping business. First Data Independent Sales credit card terminals – Portable terminals to receive payments instantly without the hassle of printing and mailing invoices. Go iLawn and Quik-Irr Software – Give your estimating department the tools it needs to do the job more efficiently with special deals on property measurement and estimating software. GreenGuardian Insurance Services – Lower-cost commercial insurance with a wide range of competitively priced property and casualty insurance. To learn more about the EARN program, and to find a complete list of partners, visit your local Ewing branch or go to www.ewing1.com/earn.

Workshops and Seminars

New Leaders, Same Ewing Excellence

Ewing is renowned for its industry-leading educational classes, and now is the time to sign up! In 2012, Ewing will offer nine different classes in Irrigation, Turf, Lighting, Hardscape and Business. These useful, affordable training programs will assist you in developing new skills to help your business grow. You can also earn continuing education credits (CEUs) for certification and licensure. We host classes at local Ewing branches, and some are offered in Spanish. A new feature for 2012, and a new advantage for you, is Ewing’s half-day classes. These four-hour workshops cost only $39, and offer a wealth of knowledge in a brief amount of time to match your busy schedule. For a complete listing of Ewing’s 2012 educational classes or to sign up for a class, please visit www.ewingeducationservices.com.

You’ll find new faces managing some of our Arizona branches. Roy Mosel in Scottsdale and Lance Shuck in Buckeye can assist you with your projects and provide you with the service you deserve. Visit their branches today to see why Ewing is the favorite resource of Arizona contractors.

Community Involvement

The Ewing Advantage Resource Network (EARN)

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

T March/April 2012

Ewing: Loyalty, Success, Sustainability

Ewing is committed to providing our customers with more than just outstanding products and sustainable solutions. We believe in assisting our customers with advancing their skills and business opportunities. We succeed along with our customers, making all our business accomplishments more satisfying. To learn more, go to your local Ewing branch or visit us online at www.ewing1.com.

Southwest Sod- Producers of REAL-QUALITY-TURF Two brothers founded Southwest Sod in 1985. They had a vision for something new. They had a vision for something local. After years of growing commodity crops for a global market, they knew the future was in their own backyard. By modernizing the traditional agribusiness model and producing a product that local Arizona markets would need and value, they knew they could create a flourishing company. Arizona’s vibrant growth of the 1980s revealed a need they could fill. Landscape contractors, groundskeepers, and sports turf managers needed premium quality grass; grass grown in close proximity to jobsites; grass produced with meticulous standards by a company with integrity and exceptional service. It was time for Arizona to go green and get turf. Arizona needed Southwest Sod. 26 years later it still does. Arizona turf professionals need reliability, integrity, and excellence more than ever. Southwest Sod continues to produce, providing fullservice turf products, shipping natural, 100% net free varieties--Midiron, Tifway, Tifgreen, and Santa Ana--fresh daily throughout Arizona. Additional services include Hydro-Seeding, Hydro-Stolonizing, and Desert Re-Vegetation. Southwest Sod is passionate about turf and passionate about creating a healthy, vibrant future for Arizona. Research from The Lawn Institute shows that turf cools the air, suppresses dust, controls soil erosion, and restores soil quality. It increases property values, decreases cooling costs, improves visibility, and deters crime, while relieving stress, promoting outdoor activity, and enhancing community pride. The environmental, economic, and societal benefits of turf are key assets for the future. Southwest Sod will be there to provide it. You may contact Southwest Sod at 602271-4266 and visit their website at www.southwestsod.com.

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

Netafim – the oNly dripliNe with a physical root barrier • • • •

Saves water Reliable performance Superior design flexibility Made with post consumer recycled material • Seven-year warranty • Qualifies for LEED credits 4.1 and 4.2

NOW MADE WITH POST CONSUMER RECYCLED MATERIAL

coNvert spray beds to drip, dowNload your free Guide WWW.NETAFIMUSA.COM/SPRAY-TO-DRIP

AZ Lndscp.Cont.Assn_Mar-2012.indd 1

March/April 2012

2/7/12 10:06 AM THE ALCA INFLUENCE

ALCA BULLETIN BOARD

A Few of Our Favorite Things

he weather has been so beautiful lately with highs in the 70’s; it hardly feels like winter!! It’s hard to imagine that this time last year we were experiencing our big freeze, while this year we are wondering if it will ever get cold again. As a propagation nursery, the big question is: when do we bring the plants out of the cold frames and greenhouses and start production for late spring and summer sales? We are always thinking ahead in order to provide our customers with the best products. I’d like to share a few of our favorite items that we have in production at Waldrons Farm. One of the groundcover plants our customers have been asking for more frequently is Eremophila prostrata “Outback Sunrise”. This is one of many Australian native plants that bear the common name “Emu Bush” (Emu is a large Australian bird). One of the wonderful aspects of the “Outback Sunrise” is its amazing durability. It will take full or partial sun, low water, and spreads 6 to 15 feet. The leaves are green and the tubular flowers are yellow. This hardy groundcover did impressively well in both the extremely low temperatures and high heat that we experienced last year. We have received rave reviews from customers who have used the Outback Sunrise in landscapes for the past few years. When looking for something really special and eye-catching for the landscape or in pots, check out the Pedilanthus macrocarpus. The common name, “Lady’s Slipper,” derives from the little pink flowers, which bloom in late spring to summer, and with imagination can be seen as shaped like a little shoe. This interesting succulent is native to Mexico, and its delightful feature is the ½” thick green stems that wave, curl, and droop gracefully. We have had great success growing Pedilanthus macrocarpus on the north side of a house, in full sun, and in pots. It spreads and thickens quickly. This succulent-like plant does have milky sap that can cause skin irritation, but it instantly creates an eye-catching accent to any design. One of our favorite vines is Podranea ricasoliana, the “Pink Trumpet Vine”. Pink Trumpet vine is an amazingly resilient plant that withstands Phoenix’s tough environment. This is an evergreen vine with strong stems that initially will need some support to encourage it to grow how you desire. The large pink flowers bloom in clusters and really flourish in the summer heat. We have also been very happy with the Duranta repens (Golden Dew Drop or Sky Flower). The Duranta varieties come in both white (“Alba”) and blue flowers. Duranta varieties make a nice clumping shrub, but can also be established on a trellis as an espalier. The clusters of white or blue flowers cascade over the evergreen roundish leaves. The flowers are followed by little golden berries. This is one of those plants that always invite the question, “What’s the name of that plant? It’s so pretty!” When you hear the name “Teucrium”, you may think of the prostrate groundcover, or the low-edging plant commonly called “Germander,” however, there is another Teucrium not to be missed. This is the silver shrub called “Teucrium fruticans” or Bush Teucrium. Teucrium fruticans is a wonderful shrub that can grow to 4 feet by 4 feet, but easily responds to pruning. It has small blue flowers rather insignificant, but the stiff stems and silvery foliage make it a stand-out in the landscape. It is a good replacement for a Texas sage when you want the color but not the winter leaf drop. Of course, we can’t go any further without mentioning the Cathedral Live Oak variety we grow. The Cathedral Oak is a cultivar of Quercus virginiana. It is a patented tree, Quercus virginiana ‘SDLN’ Plant Patent No. 12015, and is produced by cuttings rather than seed. Waldrons Farm has been licensed to propagate and produce these trees since 2006. What sets this oak apart from the live oaks grown from seed is its uniformity in shape, size, and growth habit. It is fast growing for an oak with a central leader and sturdy branching structure. It starts in a pyramidal shape and matures to an ovoid. It will grow to approximately 50’ with a 60’ plus spread. Thanks for the opportunity to share with the ALCA community a few of our favorite things from Waldrons Farm. For more information, contact us at (602) 276-8076.

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

T March/April 2012

Shade Phoenix 2030

he City of Phoenix, under the leadership of the Parks and Recreation Department, is implementing a plan to make trees and shade a priority in the coming decades. Shade Phoenix 2030 is a long-range green infrastructure initiative that lays the foundation for the growth of a healthier, more livable and prosperous Phoenix by investing in trees and shade as outlined in the Tree and Shade Master Plan. The Tree and Shade Master Plan, adopted by Phoenix’s City Council in 2010, establishes trees and shade as critical elements of the city’s infrastructure. Trees are solution multipliers that provide a myriad of benefits to the city and its residents. When trees are properly selected, planted and maintained, they help decrease energy costs, reduce storm water runoff, increase biodiversity, address the urban heat island effect, clean the air, and increase property values. Overall, a healthy urban forest can help a city reduce its carbon footprint. Additionally, trees create a sense of place and walkable streets. Trees and shade are critical elements of city infrastructure that increase with value over time. The solution to Phoenix’s declining urban forest requires more than just planting trees. The entire lifecycle of the tree must be addressed because poor landscape design, improper planting techniques, and inadequate maintenance and irrigation practices are causing the premature death of trees. Additionally, outdated City regulations can disincentivize good design. The Tree and Shade Master Plan takes a holistic approach to solving these challenging problems by outlining three major steps to improve the health of the urban forest. The first step is to raise awareness and educate policy makers, stakeholders, businesses and residents on the benefits of trees and shade, as well as those practices that will ensure the long-term health of trees. One example of this effort was a tree planting and educational workshop, held on Arbor Day 2010. This event was collaboration between the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department, Arizona Community Tree Council, Arizona

State Forestry Division, Desierto Verde and the Western Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture. This event provided workshops to volunteers, residents and staff on the fundamentals of planting healthy trees. Afterwards, volunteers planted 50 trees throughout a City park. The second step of the plan is to protect, preserve and increase trees and shade. To accomplish this goal, the City must understand the current health and condition of its urban forest. To this end, the Parks and Recreation Department has hired a consultant to conduct an inventory of the urban forest. This inventory will provide a baseline for tracking the City’s progress towards this goal. Another example of Phoenix’s commitment to this initiative is seen in demonstration projects like those built by the Office of Arts and Culture. They are constructing living sculptures at projects like the Little Canyon Trail, where they combine landscaping, gathering areas and features to create a shaded corridor that connects the neighborhood and Grand Canyon University to Little Canyon Park. The Parks Department is also incorporating tree care best management practices into daily operations. Through these and future projects, the City is leading by example in the stewardship of trees and shade. The last step of the plan is to review and revise regulations to remove obstacles to growing healthy trees and building shade structures. The task force is developing incremental changes to city codes and ordinance with the goal of making it easier for developers and property owners to plant healthy trees and build abundant shade, because as Phoenix grows it will be impossible to ignore the need for a vigorous urban forest. For more information, please visit: http://phoenix.gov/PARKS/shade.html.

With similar foundations in forward-looking product innovations, reliability, and superior customer service, Hunter and FX Luminaire continue a long-standing tradition of quality and unmatched performance. To learn more, visit: www.hunterindustries.com or www.fxl.com

March/April 2012

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

ALCA BULLETIN BOARD

It Takes a Village

orrowing from the title of the 1996 book by Hillary Rodham Clinton,” It Takes a Village,” We Rock AZ!, Inc. sees that as exactly what it takes to effectively build and grow a company today. We Rock AZ!, a boulder and granite materials supplier in the northcentral valley, began operations under that name in August of 2010. They purchased many of the assets from a company that had just three years earlier purchased assets of the long-time, well-known Melluzzo Stone Company. We Rock AZ! started with four core employees, each bringing their own specialized and complementary skills to the company. Joe Kammes, a certified diesel mechanic and licensed commercial driver who knows his way around a rock yard, is an 18-year veteran employee, and is sometimes jokingly referred to as one of the “assets” in each purchase. Co-founder, Candy Spangler, a long-time valley boulder and granite SME (Subject Matter Expert) retained responsibilities for inside sales and as office and yard manager. We Rock AZ! co-founder and corporate president, Mark Hollowell, a retired banker and business-owner/entrepreneur, manages legal and corporate matters, strategic planning, and outside sales, marketing, and advertising. Gary Heng, CEO/owner/founder, brings leadership, an entrepreneur’s spirit, business ownership experience as well as heavy equipment owner/operator/mechanic/handyman experience, and… as important, operating capital! Rounding out the group are employee team members added shortly after the company was formed, including Francisco Ibarra as yard foreman and loader operator and Jesus Gamino Flores as yard worker. Francisco and

Jesus facilitate English-Spanish translations when necessary in the yard and office. Gary’s older brother, Gale, lends a part-time hand with work in the yard and as a handyman and mechanic. Tim Hojem, a part-time mechanic and licensed commercial truck driver, rounds out the team. Overflow delivery needs are outsourced to Candy’s son, Bryan Spangler, a dump truck owner/operator, and to other owner/operators of trucks and transfers. Mark reflects, “Borrowing from the book, It Takes a Village, really does apply to this and most any other business. When one owner or employee wears too many hats, their effectiveness at any of their responsibilities is generally diminished to some extent. One person really can’t do it all effectively. Yep, “it takes a village.” Candy agrees, “I think it would be challenging to replace anyone from our team, because each of us plays such a key role here, like parts of a puzzle.” She adds, “It takes lots of different experiences and expertise, all working together towards delivering for clients. It helps that the team we’ve assembled works so well together in overlapping roles.” Gary adds, “I’m really happy with our team; we’ve all worked really well together as a team for what, 18 months now. And our customers seem pretty happy with the team, too. I’m sure you just don’t see this level of teamwork everywhere. I credit Candy and Mark, really, for putting together and keeping a strong team, keeping the team focused on customers, and for injecting fun, laughter, and humor into our village.” For more information, you can contact We Rock AZ! at (602) 569-3000.

2012 ALCA Golf Tournament Proceeds benet the Sky Blu Underwood Scholarship Fund

WHEN: Friday, May 18, 2012—9 am shotgun start WHERE: Quintero Golf Club—16752 State Route 74, Peoria WHAT: 18-hole scramble with a fun and challenging format for all levels of play. COST: $100 per player T REGISTER: (602) 626 - 7091 Lunch, prizes, and awards immediately following the tournament.

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

T March/April 2012

ALCA BULLETIN BOARD

Financial Analysis Workshop Presented by: Pittman & Murdough, PLLC Thursday, May 24, 2012 8:00—11:30AM At the ALCA Office/602-626-7091

$50

In this workshop, you will learn :  Reading and understanding your financial

statements

 Banking and bonding issues  Understanding and managing working

capital

 Case study—doing business in a down

economy

March/April 2012

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

MEMBER MIXER

Phoenix January Member Mixer Thank you to Service Jockey and BioFeed Solutions for sponsoring the January ALCA mixer at Maggiano’s. Service Jockey has the most affordable, flexible, and easy-touse marketplace that enable landscapers and lawn care services to surgically spend their marketing budget on finding pre-qualified customers. Their clients are seeing conversion rates as high as 20%, which is more than four times the industry average. Their founder and CEO Jake Rash purchased internet leads for the better part of the last decade. During that time, he became very dissatisfied with the lack of transparency, conversion performance and overall value he received for the leads he purchased. Believing that there was a better way to generate leads and treat customers, Jake decided to risk it all and set out to find that solution; he created an advisory board of landscaping contractors to provide him with a wish list for their “perfect lead” product. ServiceJockey.com is the result of the board’s wish list and Jake’s determination. Mike Noyes, ALCA member & co-owner of Valley of the Sun Landscaping & Pools said this about Jake: “Jake’s leadership and customer service is a rare find in a lead company. He sincerely wants small businesses to excel and become successful. His approach is simple - if we are successful, he too is successful.” Jake and his team are extremely diligent to regularly improve Service Jockey so they can provide each landscaper with the highest level of transparency, conversion performance, and value for their marketing dollars. Transparency: • collecting & disclosing to landscapers individual lead performance intelligence • collecting & disclosing landscaper reviews to customer before hiring a landscaper • an innovative lead pricing model that values each lead based on past performance Conversion Performance: • using different stimuli to increase customer engagement & participation • collecting the consumer’s buying decision feedback • collecting the consumer’s IQ reviews from businesses Value: • adding strategic partner freebies • adding vendor coupons & discounts • free advertising opportunities • customer conversion strategy reports Service Jockey is giving ALL ALCA landscapers a free basic account ($75 value)! They have voluntarily created an almost effortless program designed to help ALCA grow its scholarship fund and are looking for three vendors (supply, material, maintenance & repair, and equipment) who would like to participate in their FREE pilot program of distributing coupons to landscapers for each lead they buy. If you are interested in participating in one or more of these initiatives, please call Jake Rash at 602-821-0957. Biofeed Solutions, Inc. has developed an advanced line of liquid bio-tech fertilizer and water treatment products that solve a variety of problems associated with landscape, agriculture, aquaculture, and environmental concerns. These bio-product formulas are based on nearly 20 years of in-the-field research and development. BioFeed Solutions product formulations have proven to be effective in stimulating rapid bio-oxidation and digestion of organic and synthetic compounds which promotes the growth of beneficial aerobic micro-organisms that improve soil structure and natural fertility. When compared with “manually” applied fertilizers (labor, consistent application, percent of actual nutrient absorption, etc.), BioFeed Solutions’ products are more cost effective, produce substantially better results, and have greater profit potential for landscape contractors. The company is located in Glendale, AZ which ensures that you get rapid local sales, product, and service support. Choosing BioFeed Solutions supports our local economy. You may contact BioFeed Solutions at 623-930-7510.

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

T March/April 2012

Tucson January Member Mixer

MEMBER MIXER/UPDATES

Thank you to Jim Fuller with Lynx Professional Grills for sponsoring the January mixer at the home of Gary and Debbie Imus. ALCA members were able to see first-hand what Lynx has to offer. If the indoor kitchen is the heart of the home, then the luxury outdoor kitchen is definitely the heart of the outdoor living experience and the LYNX product line perfectly complements today’s custom-built outdoor kitchens. For more than 30 years, Lynx Professional Grills has been a model of engineering excellence and continuous innovation. They are the only brand dedicated to manufacturing a full-line of premium outdoor kitchen products from the ground up. This is all they do. Lynx’s countless technological advances and attention to the smallest of details is what makes Lynx synonymous with luxury. Sound familiar? Luxury and attention to details is also the pride of the ALCA’s best business practices. The Lynx professional outdoor cooking line includes everything from the sleek styling and refined features of our hallmark grills to cocktail stations, outdoor refrigerators, side burners, patio heaters and much more. And, all of our products stand the test of time, climate and heavy use. Lynx can help you create the perfect Lynx outdoor kitchen for your customer’s home and lifestyle. Discover why Lynx is the premiere manufacturer of luxury outdoor kitchen products by visiting their website at www.lynxgrills.com.

Tucson Landscape Companies to Merge

Two of Tucson’s oldest and most respected landscape companies have decided to merge. Santa Rita Landscaping, founded in 1985 by brothers Brian and Garrett Ham leads the Tucson market in providing custom residential landscape design and installation, landscaping and grading services for home builders, and commercial landscaping and maintenance. Santa Rita has won numerous awards and recognitions including 18 Arizona Landscape Contractors Installation Awards. Southwest Enviroscapes, Inc. was founded in 1992 by Richard Spross and is one of Tucson’s leading providers of landscaping services for the commercial and public sectors, including such recently completed jobs

as the new Uni-Source Tower and the I-10 corridor from Prince to 29th street. According to Santa Rita CEO Brian Ham, “This merger will help fulfill the vision of all three founders to serve the Tucson market as its preeminent provider of landscape services and provide a total landscape solution to any and all sectors of the Southern Arizona Market. Southwest Enviroscapes CEO Richard Spross expressed a similar sentiment. “For years we have been a market leader in commercial and public sector landscaping. With this merger we are able to offer a complete, quality landscape solution to customers across all markets.” The merged companies will operate as Santa Rita Landscaping, Inc.

Toro Named Winner of Irrigation Association’s ‘Smart Marketing Contest’

Innovative marketing initiatives featured at 2011 Irrigation Show Toro was recently recognized as a winner of the Irrigation Association’s (IA) “Smart Marketing Contest” for its multi-faceted and highly successful national promotion that ran as part of Smart Irrigation Month in July. Toro won in the turf and landscape category, and elements of its winning campaign were featured at the Irrigation Show in November. Entries in the Smart Marketing Contest were judged on messaging, quality and creativity. Key elements of the Toro marketing effort included: In partnership with water districts, Toro provided homeowners and other interested parties with free “sample zones” of up to 12 award-winning Precision™ Series spray nozzles. This project showed participants they can immediately reduce water usage by using newer, more advanced technologies in existing irrigation systems. All Toro advertising in July included the “Smart Irrigation Month” logo and promoted the benefits of efficient irrigation. Toro hosted its sixth annual “Success Without Excess” symposium with the theme “Planning for a Sustainable Future.” The event focused on water management best practices and efficient irrigation technologies. Nearly 200 contractors, designers and distributors attended the event and all symposium materials were made available online at torowatersmart.com. The symposium was supported by North Carolina’s Green Industry Council, and North Carolina Governor Beverly Perdue proclaimed July as “Smart Irrigation Month” in the state.

March/April 2012

THE ALCA INFLUENCE

AD INDEX/RESOURCE GUIDE COMMERCIAL FLEET SALES Rodeo Ford

Netafim

(888) 638-2346 • www.netafimusa.com

Please see our ad on page............................15

(623) 298-3938 • www.rodeofordAZ.com

Please see our ad on page..............................5 EROSION CONTROL/ HYDROSEEDING Western Sere

LANDSCAPE EQUIPMENT Arizona Machinery

(602) 917-1530 • www.arizonamachinery.com

Please see our ad on page............................17

Arid Zone Trees

(480) 987-9094 • www.aridzonetrees.com

Please see our ad on page............................22 POTTERY International Wholesale Pottery (602) 454-0528 • www.iwpottery.net

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

(888) 448-SERE (7373) • www.westernsere.com

Please see our ad on page..............................3 INSURANCE SERVICES Landscape Contractors Insurance Services, Inc.

(800) 352-3870 • www.target-specialty.com

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

(800) 628-8735 • www.lcisinc.com

Please see our ad on page..............................5 IRRIGATION PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS DIG Corporation

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

Please see our ad on page..............................3 Ewing Irrigation (800) 343-9464 • www.ewing1.com

Please see our ad on page..............................7 Horizon (800) PVCTURF (782-8873) www.horizononline.com

Please see our ad on page..............................5 Hunter Industries (760) 744-5240 • www.hunterindustries.com 2/29/04

2:44 AM

LANDSCAPING BOULDERS AND GRANITE We Rock AZ, Inc.

(602) 569-3000 • www.we-rock-az.com

(800) 322-9146 • www.digcorp.com

Document1

LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES Target Specialty Products

Page 1

Please see our ad on page............................17

LIGHTING Brilliance LED, LLC

Please see our ad on page..............................4 Kichler Lighting (216) 573-1000 • www.kichler.com

Please see our ad on page..............................9 NURSERIES All Season Wholesale Growers

(602) 276-0230 • www.allseasongrowers.com

Please see our ad on page............................15

Variety ‘AZT’

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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Please see our ad on page............................23 SUPPLYING LANDSCAPE PROFESSIONALS Wibur Ellis Co.

Please see our ad on page..............................7 TRUCKS Chapman Chevrolet & Isuzu

(866) 412-2712 • www.chapmanchevrolet.com

Please see our ad on page..............................7 Sun Country Truck Equipment, Inc. (602) 438-4956 • www.suncountrytruck.net

Please see our ad on page..............................7 VEHICLE TRACKING SYSTEMS Industrack

WHOLESALE NURSERY & CUSTOM GROWER Waldrons Farm

(602) 276-8076 • www.waldronsfarm.com

Prosopis Hybrid ‘AZT’ Thornless Mesquite

Chilopsis linearis ‘AZT Bi-Color’ Desert Willow

(800) 832-TURF (8873) • www.westernsod.com

Please see our ad on page............................19

SIMPLY THE BEST

Cercidium Hybrid ‘AZT’ Thornless Hybrid Palo Verde

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

(928) 505-3100 • www.industrack.com

Quality, Uniform, Desert Adapted Trees

Olneya tesota ‘AZT’ Desert Ironwood

(480) 456-1199 • www.evergreenturf.com

(480) 921-8500 • www.wilburellis.com

(800) 876-2108 • www.brillianceled.com

Cercidium praecox ‘AZT’ Sonoran Palo Verde

SOD/TURF Evergreen Turf, Inc.

Please see our ad on page............................19 AD INDEX All Season Wholesale Growers........................................................................ 15 Arid Zone Trees............................................................................................... 22 Arizona Machinery........................................................................................... 17 Brilliance LED, LLC............................................................................................ 4 Chapman Chevrolet & Isuzu.............................................................................. 7 DIG Corporation............................................................................................... 3 Evergreen Turf, Inc.............................................................................Back Cover Ewing Irrigation.................................................................................................. 7 Horizon.............................................................................................................. 5 Hunter Industries............................................................................................. 17 Industrack........................................................................................................ 19 International Wholesale Pottery...................................................................... 21 Kichler Lighting.................................................................................................. 9 Landscape Contractors Insurance Services, Inc................................................. 5 Netafim............................................................................................................ 15 Rodeo Ford........................................................................................................ 5 Sun Country Truck Equipment, Inc.................................................................... 7 Target Specialty Products................................................................................... 2 Waldrons Farm................................................................................................. 19 We Rock AZ, Inc.............................................................................................. 23 Western Sere..................................................................................................... 3 Western Sod.................................................................................................... 23 Wibur Ellis Co.................................................................................................... 7

2,000+ SURFACE SELECT BOULDERS ON DISPLAY MANY TYPES OF LANDSCAPE & WATER-FEATURE BOULDERS… Plus, LANDSCAPE GRANITES, RIP-RAP, SOIL, MOSS ROCK, & MORE! West of Cave Creek Road South of the Loop 101 Freeway

We’ll see you at the April ALCA mixer at our rock yard.

19636 N. 20th St. Phoenix, AZ 85024

www.we-rock-az.com Call us: 602-569-3000

Fax us: 602-569-2061

mark@we-rock-az.com

candy@we-rock-az.com

There’s a new grass in Town!

less waTer + less FerTilizer = More $ in your pockeT and a “greener” grass for the environment

Platinum t.e. now available!

Find out more at www.westernsod.com 800/832-8873

• • • • • • • •

Extreme salt tolerance Advanced striping ability Shorter dormancy period Shiny exceptionally dark green color Versatile mowing heights from ¼” – 1” Superior low light intensity tolerance Uses 66% less nitrogen than bermuda Excellent drought and wear tolerance

From the growers of bobsod— the Official Turf of the D-backs and Chase Field