March/April 2025
ALL PALO VERDE TREES ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL.
ARIZONA’S SIGNATURE TREE
The Parkinsonia or Cercidium is commonly known as the ‘Palo Verde’. The most popular hybrid is the ‘Desert Museum.’ Since there has been no authentication in its hybridization, every nursery makes their own hybrid. Unfortunately, that means you don’t really know what you’re getting with ‘Desert Museum.’ Inconsistency abounds.
WE MADE A SUPERIOR TREE
Presenting our exclusive ‘Sonoran Emerald’ hybrid. Crafted in our Innovation Lab. Field-tested. Embraced by discerning landscapers.
DESERT MUSEUM VS SONORAN EMERALD
Retaining all the beauty, without the drawbacks. Bid farewell to undesirable features of the Desert Museum: scarring, droppings, and limb breakage. Envision a lush tree with radiant green bark, virtually indestructible in strong Arizona winds – the “Sonoran Emerald.”
INNOVATION FROM THE GROUND UP
Our breakthrough: grafting exclusively on ‘Parkinsonia X parkinsonia’ rootstock. A more time-consuming and costly process, but one that ensures consistency. STRONG TREES. HAPPY CLIENTS. Picture a world without noisy clean-ups, costly replacements, or client embarrassment. You’re not just planting a tree; you’re cultivating trust.
CONTACT OUR SALES EXPERTS
Large trees in stock, ready for planting. Choose from 25-gallon pots or 36” wooden crates. Two locations to serve you. Phoenix: 623-581-3100 or Cave Creek: 480-488-1968
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President
Vice
The ALCA INFLUENCE
ARIZONA LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS’ ASSOCIATION
Treasurer
Executive
THE BENEFITS OF BECOMING AN ALCA MEMBER
As a landscaper, staying updated with industry trends and maintaining professional growth is essential. The Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association (ALCA) provides invaluable resources, support, and opportunities to enhance your business.
Why Become an ALCA Member?
Networking Opportunities
Join a community of industry professionals, including contractors, designers, suppliers, and service providers. ALCA events and programs facilitate valuable connections that lead to collaborations and business growth.
Educational Resources & Professional Development
ALCA offers exclusive workshops, certifications, and training on sustainable practices, cutting-edge technologies, and business skills to help you stay competitive in an evolving market.
Advocacy & Industry Representation
ALCA actively represents its members at the local and state levels, advocating for favorable legislation and addressing regulatory changes to protect and promote the landscaping profession.
Recognition & Credibility
Membership signals a commitment to professionalism and industry standards. ALCA members gain credibility and visibility through directory listings and association-backed recognition.
Where Your Membership Fees Go
Educational Initiatives
Funding supports workshops, certifications, and training programs that keep members at the forefront of industry advancements.
Event Organization
Membership dues help cover trade shows, golf tournaments, and networking events that foster industry relationships and business growth.
Marketing & Public Awareness
ALCA promotes the landscaping profession through advertising campaigns, public relations efforts, and community outreach.
Advanced Technology
Investments in technology ensure members have access to innovative tools and resources to enhance efficiency and service quality.
Stay Engaged, Stay Ahead
Becoming an ALCA member supports both individual growth and the success of the
landscaping industry. Renew your membership on time to continue accessing valuable benefits,
advocacy, and resources. Together, we can achieve excellence in landscaping!
SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR ALCA SPONSORS
PALLADIUM SPONSORS
Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock –a SiteOne Landscape Supply Company
Horizon Distributors
SiteOne Landscape Supply
PLATINUM SPONSORS
All Season Wholesale Growers
Arizona CLA LLC
Belgard/Superlite Block an Oldcastle Co Civano Growers
Desert Tree Farm
Enterprise Fleet Management
Evergreen Turf
Ewing Outdoor Supply
Hill & Usher Insurance & Surety
Hunter Industries/FX Luminaire
LeBaron & Carroll
Rain Bird Corporation
South Coast Wholesale
The Synthetic Grass Store/ Arizona Turf Masters
Vermeer Mountain West
West Coast Turf
APRIL
4 When the Government Comes Knocking: Audit and Employment Law
Nickie Velten 2024 ALCA President
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WHAT’S NEW IN ALCA’S SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM?
Greater Exposure Across Multiple Channels: ALCA sponsors will now enjoy even more visibility, with enhanced placement across ALCA’s website, publications, events, and email marketing. Your logo and company name will be prominently displayed, ensuring your brand reaches an expanded audience of contractors, landscapers, and industry professionals.
Tailored Networking Opportunities: In response to feedback from sponsors, ALCA has redesigned its events to offer more targeted networking opportunities. Whether it’s new exclusive sponsorship events or intimate networking mixers, sponsors now have even more chances to engage with potential clients, partners, and influencers in the landscaping field.
Customized Recognition: The reworked sponsorship program now includes a more tailored recognition approach. Sponsors will be highlighted not just at events but across multiple touchpoints, including social media, email blasts, and event signage, ensuring your company gets the exposure it deserves.
Access to Sponsorship-Only Opportunities: Receive exclusive perks, including early access to ALCA events, special speaking opportunities, and the chance to showcase your products or services to attendees. Sponsors also benefit from exclusive discounts on all ALCA events and marketing promotions.
New Sponsorship Packages: Designed for Maximum Impact
ALCA’s refreshed sponsorship packages are designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses. From small companies to large corporations, there is a package that suits your goals and budget:
• * NEW* Palladium Sponsor: The highest level of partnership, offering maximum visibility, exclusive recognition at major events, and the opportunity to present at key sessions. Sponsors at this level will also receive complimentary event registrations and VIP treatment throughout the year.
• Platinum Sponsor: Provides extensive brand exposure with prominent logo placement, recognition in key materials, and access to exclusive networking events. Platinum sponsors will also enjoy complimentary registration for key ALCA events.
• Gold Sponsor: Ideal for companies seeking high visibility without the full commitment of Palladium or Platinum. This level provides great exposure at events, as well as complimentary event registrations and opportunities to engage with attendees.
• Silver Sponsor: A cost-effective option for businesses that want to support ALCA while still gaining key exposure. Silver sponsors receive logo placement across ALCA materials and complimentary entries to select events.
NEW MEMBERS
• *NEW* Custom Opportunities: For businesses seeking a more tailored approach, ALCA now offers custom event sponsorships. You can sponsor specific events or activities, such as lunch or networking sessions, ensuring your brand is featured in high-traffic moments.
Why Sponsor ALCA in 2025?
Linda Turnage Executive Director
ALCA’s reworked sponsorship program is designed to provide more visibility, more targeted networking, and more exclusive opportunities than ever before. With improved packages and expanded benefits, becoming an ALCA sponsor is the perfect way to position your business as a leader in the Arizona landscaping industry.
Join us today and experience the enhanced benefits of supporting the continued growth and development of the landscaping community in Arizona!
Desert Rain Landscaping & Services
Ralph Arias management@desertrainservices.com
Desert Rain Landscaping is a small family owned and operated company that handles both landscape maintenance and construction services. Contractor Class 2
Drip In Turf
Andy Slack andy@dripinturf.com
We are a small local commercial landscape maintenance company. Contractor Class 2
Ego Commercial
J.R. Huerta Ghuerta@na.chervongroup.com
Manufacturer of battery-operated outdoor power equipment. Associate Class 4
Gonzo Landscaping Services
Edgar Gonzalez
Edgar@gonzolandscaping.com
Gonzo landscaping Services LLC is family owned and operated. We have over 20 years of experience specializing in commercial, HOA, and industrial properties. We provide the community with quality work in commercial landscape maintenance, weed control, tree care, irrigation, installations, and much more.
Contractor Class 2
Heroes Lawn Care of Mesa
David Braithwaite dbraithwaite@heroeslawncare.com
We are a brand-new lawn care franchise that is opening in the valley. We offer fertilization, irrigation, mosquito/pest control, pet waste management, and turf cleaning.
Contractor Class 1
Innovative by Design
Jack Dyer jack@innovativeby.design
Contractor Class 2
KDK Designs LLC
Roberto Cantu cantu.rob@icloud.com
Contractor Class 1
Katerina Villagomez villagomez.katerina@gmail.com
Architect/Designer
NIBCO
Chris Methvin methvinc@nibco.com
NIBCO is a 120 year-old family-owned plumbing manufacturer, specializing in copper and PVC fittings, bronze and iron Valves, as well as fire protection and industrial products. NIBCO is also very involved in the Landscape industry, specializing in Commercial and Golf irrigation valves and fittings.
Contractor Class 4
SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT (SLM) AND SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE COMMUNITIES:
An Interview with Melissa Emdin, Programs and Education Director for Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado
By: Frances Craik, ALCA Education Coordinator
Frances Craik (FC): What is SLM and SLC?
Melissa Emdin (ME): SLM is a certification training class that consists of a manual outlining sustainable landscape management principles and practices.
SLCC is a companion program to SLM Colorado that demonstrates how HOA’s, commercial and retail properties are, or can become, part of the solution. While SLM provides certificates to individuals, this program provides a designation to commercial sites. The SLC initiative furthers a major tenant of the Colorado Water Plan: active collaboration by different entities to conserve our most precious resource – water.
FC: What is the history of SLM and SLC?
ME: was adopted by ALCC in the early 2010’s after being inspired by ALCA’s SLM curriculum. ALCC gathered with landscape companies, municipalities, water providers and property managers from across the state to develop a curriculum specific to their landscape. Since then, they have certified over 700 individuals with the SLM designation.
In 2021, ALCC piloted the SLC program with Centerra, a residential and mixed-use commercial community in Loveland, Colorado. Centerra is a community of homes for different family sizes and lifestyles, trails, parks, shopping centers, restaurants, and an environmental center. Centerra was the first property to receive the SLC Designation and will be coming upon their 3-year recertification site visit this year! There are currently 3 active SLC designations, and ALCC is working hard to grow the program.
FC: What is the relationship between the SLC site, the landscape management company, and ALCC?
ME: We often find that one landscape company does the design and installation, while another landscape company does the maintenance. Through the SLM and SLC programs, ALCC is able to work with both companies to
ensure the SLM practices are executed. There can be challenges when the project turns out differently than the original design or expectation, but we find that teaching the SLM Curriculum with the landscape companies and property managers provides a smooth solution to getting all the stakeholders on the same page.
FC: How do you keep track of the SLM practices in the SLC communities - is there a recertification program or a site visit?
ME: The original certification program starts with a site visit. Every 3 years ALCC visits the site again to renew the SLC certification.
FC: Is there anything else you want to share?
ME: SLM is the basis for all the education and relationship building that we do. As long as those practices are honored and executed, and landscape companies maintain their credentials, we are preserving our resources, beautifying our landscapes, and elevating the green industry as a whole.
Contact:
Melissa Emdin | Programs and Education Director
Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado 720 307-5092, memdin@alcc.com
Additional Resources
• https://www.alcc.com/slm
• https://www.alcc.com/slc-colorado
• https://alcc.memberclicks.net/assets/ SLC/ALCC%20SLC%20oversized%20trifold%20bleeds-trim.pdf
Frances Craik Education Coordinator
STRONG LEADERSHIP AND POSITIVE COMPANY CULTURE
By: Frances Craik, ALCA
Frances Craik (FC): Share your experience as a leader and how it has changed with the growth of GPM
Cameron Chandler, Owner, GPM Landscape (CC): As a leader, I have grown significantly by learning how to manage people effectively. Early on, my focus was on finding work and mastering the landscaping skills and
who entrust me with this responsibility.
FC: How do you empower your crew leaders?
knowledge. However, as time passed, I realized that managing people is the most critical aspect of leadership. This shift in perspective has been key to adapting and growing alongside the company. My leadership is rooted in extensive experience and an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of my team. I can relate to their tasks because I’ve worked in those positions myself, which allows me to lead with empathy and knowledge. Leadership is about being more than just a boss—it’s about being a great leader, team member, teacher, and overall, a good employee. With GPM’s growth, I’ve learned that running the company requires the same dedication as completing the job itself. This growth has kept me on my toes, consistently pushing me to improve and ensure I’m not letting down those
CC: I empower my crew leaders by fostering a sense of connection and recognition. This includes organizing company trips, such as taking the team to Las Vegas, and hosting events like a Christmas party to celebrate their hard work. Monthly meetings are another opportunity to recognize achievements, such as highlighting the Employee of the Month. Additionally, I make it a priority to spend time with crew leaders, building strong relationships and making meaningful connections. Empowering crew leaders begins with active involvement in their training and development. By demonstrating tasks myself and maintaining clear communication, I show that I care and am invested in their success. Money is a motivator, but it’s not the only way to inspire people. Instead, I focus on building their skills and fostering a positive environment where they feel supported. By being part of the process and setting a strong example, I ensure my crew leaders feel confident and capable in their roles.
FC: What rituals/routines inspire positive and safe company culture?
CC: Weekly meetings are a cornerstone of our company culture. They provide a consistent platform to reinforce positivity, ensure safety protocols are followed, and maintain open communication across the team. Establishing routines and clear expectations is critical to creating a safe and positive company culture.
Employees look to their leaders to model the rules and procedures. I make it a priority to demonstrate these standards myself to ensure they are followed consistently. As a leader, appraising and disciplining when necessary is important, but it’s equally essential to maintain a management team that enforces safety and compliance. While I’m still building the safety culture at GPM, my goal is to create a top-down approach where these norms are clearly defined and upheld.
FC: How can other companies start to improve their culture?
CC: To improve company culture, businesses should focus on building a foundation of honesty and dependability. By staying true to commitments and leading with integrity, they can create a culture that thrives on trust and reliability. Improving company culture starts at the top. Leadership must evaluate the team regularly to identify what works and what doesn’t. Conducting thorough assessments of each department ensures processes are running smoothly and helps pinpoint areas for improvement. Many companies fail due to weaknesses in their leadership or management, so addressing these gaps is essential. By setting the right norms and leading by example, companies can establish a strong foundation for success.
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
High Desert Designs
Sponsored by:
Foster Residence, Residential Installation Residential Maintenance Under $25,000, Award of Excellence
Armstrong Residence, Residential Maintenance Under $25,000 Award of Distinction
Webb - Estancia, Residential Maintenance Under $25,000, Award of Excellence
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
High Desert Designs
Clearwater Residence, Residential Installation
$300,000$500,000, Award of Excellence
Sponsored by:
Armstrong Residence, Residential Installation
$300,000 - $500,000, Judges Award
Clearwater Residence, Residential Installation
$300,000 - $500,000, Award of Excellence
Webb Residence, Residential Installation
$300,000 - $500,000, Award of Distinction
2024
Excellence in Landscaping Awards Think Green Design Build Landscape
Sponsored by:
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards Desert Appeal Landscaping
Sponsored by:
The Meeks Residence, Residential Installation
$100,000 - $200,000, Judges Award
Camelback Oasis, Residential Installation
$500,000 - $1 Million, Judges Award
Cortland Biltmore, Commercial Maintenance Under $100,000, Judges Award
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Award Sponsors
All Season Wholesale Growers
All Season Wholesale Growers is a full-service, wholesale nursery that specializes in providing high quality trees, shrubs, ground covers and vines.
6623 S 32nd St #4, Phoenix, AZ 85042 (602) 276-0230 | www.allseasongrowers.com
Belgard
Belgard Hardscapes is a brand within the Oldcastle APG Portfolio. Since 1995, we have transformed thousands of residential and commercial properties across North America. (602) 352-3845 | www.belgard.com
Desert Tree Farm
Desert Tree Farm has been propagating, cultivating and growing native arid plants since the early 1970’s. Our farm grows over 300 plant varieties with 2 convenient growing and sales locations in both North and South Phoenix totaling over 90 acres. Of these, many are proprietary plants uniquely developed for southern Arizona and the southwestern United States. 602-569-6604 | www.deserttreefarm.com
Harmony Horticultural Consulting, LLC
We assist the landscape and property management professional or property owner, helping to manage water, plant health care and pest issues to maintain attractive and productive properties.
Kasey Billingsley | (480) 751-8540 www.harmonyhorticulture.com
The Toro Company
We strengthen our position as a leading provider worldwide of innovative solutions for the outdoor environment including turf maintenance, snow and ice management, landscape, rental and specialty construction equipment, and irrigation and outdoor lighting solutions. www.toro.com
West Coast Turf
We have been the leaders in the sod farming industry since 1972, with the aim of providing the best natural turfgrass and sod installation service in the business. Only West Coast Turf has earned the name “Home of Super Bowl Sod” having supplied turf grass to a record 8 Super Bowls from California to Florida, including Super Bowl 50 at Levi’s Stadium. (888) 893-TURF (8873) www.westcoastturf.com
3 ESSENTIAL TREES CONTRACTORS NEED FOR DESERT LANDSCAPING
Written by – Shawna Coronado
Landscape contractors in the desert Southwest face unique challenges when selecting trees that can withstand extreme temperatures, low water availability, and harsh sunlight. To succeed in this environment, choosing trees that are both resilient and aesthetically pleasing is essential. Three standout tree varieties that excel in these conditions are the Sweet Bubba Seedless Desert Willow, Joan Lionetti Texas Live Oak, and Bubba Jones Desert Willow. These trees are designed to thrive in desert landscapes while providing shade, beauty, and low-maintenance care.
In this article, we’ll explore how landscape contractors can incorporate these innovative tree varieties into their desert projects to create sustainable, long-lasting landscapes.
1. Sweet Bubba Seedless Desert Willow: A LowMaintenance Showstopper
The Sweet Bubba Seedless Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis ‘Sweet Bubba’ Seedless PP33091) is a versatile and compact tree that offers stunning blooms and thrives with minimal water. Known for its vibrant pinkish-purple flowers that bloom from late spring to summer, this tree adds color and beauty to any desert landscape. Its size—typically reaching 15 to 20 feet tall—makes it a perfect fit for smaller yards, courtyards, or streetscapes where space is limited.
Contractors will appreciate the Sweet Bubba Seedless Desert Willow for its heat tolerance, low water requirements, and relatively low maintenance needs. It has a small root system, making it suitable for planting near structures or in areas where larger trees might pose a risk to foundations or underground utilities. Its vibrant flowers attract pollinators, making it an excellent addition to landscapes focused on supporting local wildlife.
2. Joan Lionetti Texas Live Oak: A Durable, Year-Round Green Tree
The Joan Lionetti Texas Live Oak (Quercus virginiana x fusiformis ‘Joan Lionetti’ PP27646) boasts a dense, attractive canopy that maintains its vibrant green foliage throughout the year. It is a clonal selection specifically chosen for its adaptability to the desert Southwest. Unlike seed-grown oaks, which can vary in size and growth habit, this tree offers consistency and predictability, making it an ideal choice for urban landscapes.
One of its standout features is its smaller, more manageable size compared to traditional live oaks. This makes it well-suited for residential properties, streetscapes, and commercial projects where space and predictability are crucial. Contractors can rely on its uniform growth pattern and ability to thrive in the built environment, providing shade and year-round greenery without unexpected growth challenges.
3. Bubba Jones Desert Willow: A Low-Maintenance Showstopper
The Bubba Jones Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis ‘Bubba Jones’ PP33637) is a versatile and compact tree that offers stunning blooms and thrives with minimal water. Known for its striking purple flowers that bloom from late spring to summer, this tree adds color and beauty to any desert landscape. Its size—typically reaching 15 to 20 feet tall—makes it a perfect fit for smaller yards, courtyards, or streetscapes where space is limited.
Contractors will appreciate the Bubba Jones Desert Willow for its heat tolerance, low water requirements, and relatively low maintenance needs. It has a small root system, making it suitable for planting near structures or in areas where larger trees might pose a risk to foundations or underground utilities. Its vibrant flowers attract pollinators, making it an excellent addition to landscapes focused on supporting local wildlife.
Why These Trees Are Ideal for Desert Landscaping
Each of these trees—the Sweet Bubba Seedless Desert Willow, Joan Lionetti Texas Live Oak, and Bubba Jones Desert Willow—are tailored for desert environments, offering a combination of drought tolerance, low maintenance, and year-round beauty. Landscape contractors can use these trees to create sustainable landscapes that require less water, reducing overall irrigation costs while enhancing the aesthetic and functional value of outdoor spaces.
These trees, which are Civano Growers exclusive Civano Originals line, also contribute to xeriscaping, which continues to grow in popularity in the Southwest as a water-conserving approach to landscaping. By incorporating these varieties into projects, contractors can meet the growing demand for eco-friendly landscapes that are both attractive and sustainable.
For more information go to www.civanogrowers.com
Bubba Jones Desert Willow
Summer Joan
Sweet Bubba Bloom
REVIVING ARIZONA’S NATIVE LANDSCAPES
By Emilie Augustine
We all know that Arizona is an exceptional state. Not only do we have one of the Seven Wonders of the World, but Arizona also has a rich tapestry of diverse terrain, from deserts and mountains to riparian habitats. All these corridors support an array of plant life and wildlife species.
In the Greater Phoenix area, we encourage landscape designers and companies to primarily focus on plants
leaves fall from thornless branches with pale yellow flowers. The distinctive smooth white bark (hence the name) peels from the tree to reveal a layered look and texture. Used nicely in
native to the Sonoran Desert, Chihuahuan Desert, and Mohave Desert. These ecosystems provide a diverse palette of resilient, drought tolerant species that thrive in the region’s arid climate while requiring minimal water and maintenance. These plants can withstand extreme temperatures while enhancing both residential and commercial landscapes that blend seamlessly with Arizona’s natural beauty while maintaining biodiversity and soil health and supporting native wildlife and pollinators.
There are many native plants to choose from, however this article will focus on seven that we have found to be beneficial and popular with our clients.
Palo Blanco Tree – (Acacia (Mariosousa) Willardiana )
Native to the Sonoran Desert the Palo Blanco is a 15-ft slender tree. Long, willowy
Elephant Tree – (Bursera fagaroides)
Used by indigenous communities for medicine and resin, this Sonoran Desert native also provides shade and shelter for desert animals. Preferring to grow in well-drained soil, it will put on most of its growth in the summer while it goes dormant in the other seasons therefore it is extremely drought tolerant. A great choice for landscapes that need a statement specimen.
Smoke Tree – (Dalea (Psorothamnus) spinosa)
Found in the desert sandy washes of Southern Arizona this sub-shrub (tree like) specimen is multi branched with gray spiny twigs. Mostly leafless but favored for its intensely indigocolored flowers this bush is an attention grabber! Added to any landscape the uniqueness of this plant will highlight any design. Growing up to 10’-15’ tall this perennial requires full sun.
San Marcos Hibiscus – (Gossypium harknessii)
courtyards and tight areas, it does well in most soils. Heat tolerant with full sun exposure a deep water every two weeks is enough to sustain this slow growing tree. Pairs nicely with spiky agaves and yuccas to please the eye of even the pickiest of homeowners.
Bee Brush – (Aloysia gratissima)
Originally from Southern Arizona, West Texas and Mexico, this large perennial shrub grows to 6’ tall and 5’ across. Sparse leaves are paired with spikes of tiny white flowers that emit a delicate yet strong fragrance. As the name suggests, bees use the nectar to make honey from March to November and butterflies use it to rest during migration. Plant in full sun with medium water use in rocky soils and this plant will thrive to enhance most landscapes such as a hedge or screen.
Covered with thick heart-shaped leaves this 4’ tall shrub forms a rounded mound to compliment any design. Paired with boulders for reflective heat it will thrive and give large yellow flowers as a gift. As a species of wild cotton, it is perfect for desert landscaping and very salt tolerant. Only minimal maintenance required with infrequent yet deep irrigation.
Guayacan – (Guaiacum coulteri)
This slow growing, low water use large shrub is native to Northern Mexico. Covered in bright indigo to purple flowers juxtaposed against lime green foliage, it is very pleasing to the eye. The form is unconventional with its multi branching tendencies and minimal maintenance is needed only to preserve form.
Creosote – (Larrea tridentata)
The ultimate known native and the source of the “aroma of a desert rain” this evergreen shrub grows from 3’ to 10’. Sticky resin covers the leaves next to bright yellow flowers. Found in flat desert areas they require very little water and no maintenance. Planting singularly because of a toxin released through the soil to other species it is best to pair with other creosote. Found on nearly every HOA approved plants list, you cannot go wrong with this revegetation plant.
Reintroducing native and well-adapted plants into residential and commercial landscapes is a sound way to conserve water and reduce maintenance. We are fortunate to have such diverse ecosystems in Arizona, but it is our responsibility to help preserve biodiversity to contribute to the resilience of our land all the while creating beautiful landscapes.
ARIZONA LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS’ ASSOCIATION
2025 EDUCATION AND TRAINING TRAINING
in the necessary credentials, skills, and knowledge advance your career as a landscape professional!
WHERE WHEN COST
3-Day Training
Site Assessment - Maximizing Efficiency
Troubleshooting & Repair - Controller Programming
Valves - Sprinkler & Drip Demos - Water Audit
Multimeter Practice - Ground Fault/Wire Locating
ALCA Training Room, 5425 E Bell Rd Ste 105, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
March 27 at 7:30am - 2:30pm, April 3 at 7:30am - 2:30pm, April 10 at 7:30am - 1pm
$450 Members / $700 Non Members (lunch is provided)
Students receive ACIT after participating in all 3 days and passing the ACIT Exam with 80% or higher Must have passed ACLP Irrigation or have 2 years hands on irrigation tech experience to register. Proficient use of Multimeter is mandatory.
2-Wire Principles - Troubleshooting & Repair
Hands-on Manufacture Demos - Ground Fault/Wire locating
ALCA Trade Show
Spring 2025, Date/Time TBD
$220 Members / $320 Non Members WHERE WHEN COST
Students receive Certificate of 2-Wire Competencies upon completion.
SLM® Certificate Program
BEST PRACTICES: Design - Construction/Enhancements - Maintenance
Create beautiful, ecological, and economical landscapes! WHERE WHEN COST
ALCA Training Room, or Online via Zoom
1/31/25, 4/14/25, and 9/19/25
$130 Members / $160 Non Members (SLM Book is included)
Students receive SLM® Certificate upon passing exam with 80% or higher.
PMD Pre Certified Applicator Training
Get prepared for the PMD Certified Applicator Exam
ROW - Ornamental and Turf - Labeling and Formulations
Pesticide Safety, Storage, Transportation, Disposal - First Aid and Emergency Exam Application and Scheduling - PMD CEUs available WHERE WHEN COST
ALCA Training Room, or Online via Zoom
May 2025, Date/Time TBD
$300 Members / $500 Non Members
Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association
5425 E. Bell Road, Ste 105, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 www ALCA org | 602-626-7091
SAFETY TIPS - ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS
Article Provided By: National Association of Landscape Professionals
As outdoor workers, landscape crew members face many environmental hazards and associated risks: extreme temperatures can lead to heat- illnesses and sun exposure can cause skin cancer. Heat-related illnesses and skin cancer:
• Give your body time to acclimatize to hot environments. It takes your body weeks to build up tolerance for working in warm temperatures. You should gradually move toward a full workload when new to such work and after being away from the job a week or more.
• Know whether you have a condition or are taking medication that increases your susceptibility to heat-related illnesses. Be especially careful if you have hypertension, high cholesterol, or diabetes; are obese; or take anti-inflammatory medication as this increases your susceptibility to heat-related illness.
• Tell your employer about medical conditions you have and medications you are taking.
• When working in hot environments, drink water every 15 minutes. Do this even if you are not thirsty.
• Take frequent breaks in shade or air conditioning, if possible.
• Move to shady areas during breaks. The temperature can feel up to 15 degrees cooler.
• Dress for warm weather. Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a loose hat with at least a 4-inch brim and a drape to cover the back of your neck. This will keep you cooler and help protect your skin from sun exposure.
• Apply sunscreen. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, and sun exposure causes more than 90 percent of skin-cancer cases, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. To help prevent skin cancer, apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day you work outdoors. You should apply 1 oz. of sunscreen, which is about a shot glass full. Most people apply only a quarter to half the required amount.
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. Also reapply after sweating a great deal or toweling off. Since lightweight clothing doesn’t provide full sun protection, consider wearing clothing with embedded sunscreens or using laundry detergent that increases your clothing’s ultraviolet protection factor (UPF).
• Know the symptoms of heat-related illnesses:
• Dehydration – decreased perspiration, thirst, a cool, clammy feeling, headache, poor appetite, dark-colored urine
• Heat exhaustion – dizziness, headache, sweaty skin, weakness, cramps, nausea, vomiting, rapid heart beat
• Heat stroke (a literal stroke that can be fatal) – red/dry skin, high temperature, confusion, convulsions, fainting
• Monitor yourself as well as fellow workers for signs of heatrelated illnesses. Remind co-workers to replenish fluids.
• Tell a co-worker or supervisor if you experience symptoms of heat-related illness. Go to a cool, shaded area and rehydrate with water or sports beverages if you are dehydrated. You can return to work when you feel better. If symptoms are still present after 30 minutes, seek medical attention.
• If a co-worker displays signs of heat exhaustion, call 911 and guide that person to a cool, shaded area. Take off the person’s hat, shoes and socks and provide a sports beverage while waiting for medical attention.
• Know how to handle heat stroke. If a person displays signs of heat stroke, take the steps noted above for heat exhaustion and spray or wipe the person’s skin with cool water and fan the person. If a seizure occurs, turn the person onto the side, tilt the head back and thrust the jaw forward in order to keep the airway open.
• Examine your body regularly and schedule an appointment with a doctor if you notice spots on your skin that change size, shape or color. Skin cancers often appear as:
• Pale, pearly, wax-like nodules
• Red, scaly, sharply outlined patches
• Sores that don’t heal
• Small, mole-like growths (melanoma, the most serious form of the disease).
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OnSite OilChange Plus (480) 470-0352
onsiteoilchangeplus.com
Please see our ad on page ......... 4/ Inside Back Cover
INSURANCE
Hill & Usher (602) 667-1848
trimrisk.com
Please see our ad on page 22
IRRIGATION PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS
Horizon (800) PVCTURF (782-8873)
horizononline.com
Please see our ad on page 9
Hunter Industries (760) 744-5240
hunterindustries.com
Please see our ad on page 7
LANDSCAPE CERTIFICATION TRAINING/TESTING
Metro Institute (602) 452-2900
metroinstitute.com
Please see our ad on page 22
LANDSCAPE EQUIPMENT
Stotz Equipment 623-936-7131
stotzequipment.com
Please see our ad on page 10
LANDSCAPE MATERIALS
Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock Landscape Materials (602) 353-1020
cuttingedgecurbing.com
Please see our ad on page 22
LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES
Material Delivery, Inc. dba
MDI Rock (602) 569-8722
mdirock.com
Please see our ad on page 9
LIGHTING
Brilliance LED, LLC (800) 867-2108
brillianceled.com
Please see our ad on page 6
NURSERIES
All Season Wholesale Growers (602) 276-0230
allseasongrowers.com
Please see our ad on page 5
Arid Solutions Nursery (602) 437-5194
aridsolutionsnursery.com
Please see our ad on page 21
Arizona Wholesale Growers (623) 581-3100
azwholesalegrowers.com
Please see our ad on page ............ 3
South Coast Wholesale (888) 326-7256
southcoastwholesale.com
Please see our ad on page Inside Front Cover
SOD/TURF
Evergreen Turf, Inc. (480) 456-1199
evergreenturf.com
Please see our ad on page ......
West Coast Turf (888) 893-8873
westcoastturf.com
Now part of the Site One team, Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock Is your one stop shop for all your landscape needs. We are a hauling company with a fully stocked retail yard and a proud distributor for Belgard, Southwest Sod, Evergreen Turf, Phoenix Paver, and AZ Best Block. We carry over fifty colors of landscape rock, river products, soil mixes, rip rap and boulders. Our knowledgeable sales staff will insure that your order is accurate and our experienced drivers will get your materials to you on time. Our certified scale ensures that you are receiving the correct amount of material ordered. Call or come by today.
Monday-Friday 6A-5P Saturday 7A -3P 7540 N 67th Ave, Bldg. A Glendale, AZ 85301 Office 602-353-1020 Fax 602-353-1027
Please see our ad on page 4
TREES
Western Tree Company (602) 243-6125
westerntree.com
Please see our ad on page 5
