The ALCA INFLUENCE
November/December
Blueprint for Organizational and Personal Growth
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 Cave Creek: 480-488-1968
OUR EXCLUSIVE PALO VERDE TREE
LUSH EMERALD GREEN FOLIAGE
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The ALCA INFLUENCE
President
Vice
Executive
ALCA’s Upcoming Three-Year Strategic Planning Meeting: A Blueprint for Organizational and Personal Growth
AstheArizona Landscape Contractors’ Association (ALCA) gears up for its highly anticipated, first-ever, Three Year Strategic Planning Meeting, there is a palpable sense of excitement about the future. This meeting will bring together leaders, stakeholders, and members from across the organization to map out ALCA’s vision and goals for the next three years. Yet, while the focus will primarily be on the organization’s strategic objectives, the principles guiding these discussions can be highly relevant to individuals seeking direction in their personal and professional lives.
The Significance of Strategic Planning for ALCA
The Three-Year Strategic Planning Meeting provides a structured opportunity to reflect on current achievements, assess market trends, and chart a course that aligns with the evolving needs of its members. This year’s planning session is expected to focus on several key areas:
Member Engagement and Support: Ensuring that ALCA continues to offer innovative programs, resources, and networking opportunities to support its diverse membership.
Technology Integration: Exploring ways to leverage technology to enhance member communication, improve access to resources, and create more personalized experiences for our members.
Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: Strengthening efforts to build a more inclusive community by addressing equity in career access and growth.
Sustainability and Growth: Developing a financial and operational plan that supports long-term sustainability while expanding membership and organizational impact.
The importance of this meeting lies not only in the outcomes that will drive ALCA’s future but also in how these outcomes are achieved. The strategic planning process itself is a powerful exercise in visioning, goal setting, and resource alignment—elements that mirror personal development strategies.
How Strategic Planning Principles Relate to Personal Growth
Just as organizations like ALCA engage in strategic planning to thrive in a competitive environment, individuals can apply these same principles to their personal and professional lives. Here’s how the strategies discussed during ALCA’s Three-Year Strategic Planning Meeting can be adapted for personal use:
Reflection and Assessment: The first step in any strategic plan is understanding where you currently stand. ALCA will examine its past performance and assess current trends. Similarly, personal strategic planning begins with self-reflection—evaluating your strengths, weaknesses, accomplishments, and areas of improvement. What have you achieved in the past few years? What challenges have you faced? This level of selfawareness helps create a solid foundation for future growth.
Setting Long-Term Goals: ALCA will outline ambitious yet achievable goals for the next three years. On a personal level, individuals can think about where they want to be in their careers or personal lives in the next three years. Are you aiming for a promotion? A career change? A healthier lifestyle? Setting clear, long-term goals provides direction and purpose.
Resource Alignment: A key component of ALCA’s planning process will involve aligning resources—whether financial, technological, or human—with its goals. In personal strategic planning, this means identifying the resources you’ll need to achieve your objectives. It might be networking connections, further education, or developing specific skills. Just as ALCA must make budgetary decisions, individuals should also allocate time, energy, and resources efficiently.
Flexibility and Adaptation: The world is constantly changing, and so must strategic plans. ALCA will account for potential disruptions in the landscaping industry and ensure its strategy is flexible. In personal planning, it’s crucial to remain adaptable. Life circumstances—such as health, family obligations, or economic shifts—can require us to pivot our plans. The ability to reassess and adjust your goals as needed is a critical component of long-term success.
Sustainability and Balance: ALCA is not just planning for growth but for sustainable growth. For individuals, this translates to finding a balance between ambition and well-being. Pursuing personal goals at the expense of mental and physical health is unsustainable. Like ALCA, personal strategic plans should consider how to achieve growth in a way that is harmonious and sustainable over time.
Conclusion: Aligning Organizational and Personal Strategies
ALCA’s Three-Year Strategic Planning Meeting represents more than just a roadmap for the organization—it serves as a valuable model for individuals seeking to plan their futures. Whether you’re a career professional looking to make your next move or simply someone aiming for more personal fulfillment, strategic planning can help you align your resources, stay adaptable, and pursue sustainable growth.
As ALCA embarks on this strategic journey, its members are encouraged to do the same. Through careful reflection, goal setting, and alignment of resources, both organizations and individuals can carve out a clear path to success, ensuring that they are prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Warmest Regards, Nickie Velten – 2024 ALCA President Linda Turnage – ALCA Executive Director
Nickie Velten 2024 ALCA President
Linda Turnage Executive Director
In Reflection of 2024
By Frances Craik
October
9, 2024, marked my one-year anniversary with ALCA, a milestone that took me by surprise. At first, I was struck by how quickly this year seemed to have flown by—too quickly, in fact. However, as I took a moment to reflect on the transformative journey I’ve had with ALCA, it became clear why a full year has indeed passed. This time has been filled with significant changes and personal growth, both for the organization and for myself. From overcoming challenges to celebrating successes, each experience has contributed to my development and deepened my connection to the mission of ALCA. As I look back, I’m filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and excited for what the future holds.
Our ALCA Certified Landscape Professional (ACLP) program recently concluded for the year, achieving a remarkable milestone with the highest level of student participation in ALCA history. We saw the ALCA Training Room consistently sell out for many classes, accommodating a full capacity of 32 students. However, even when our in-person classes reached capacity, we provided a hybrid option that allowed an unlimited number of students to engage live via Zoom. This flexibility has enabled participants from all corners of Arizona—from Nogales to Prescott—to immerse themselves in foundational landscape topics that not only enhance their skill sets but also open doors to greater career opportunities. Throughout the year, I have been actively gathering feedback from students, volunteer educators, and ALCA Members. This invaluable input has allowed me to pinpoint the strengths of our programs, identify gaps in education,
Center. This overwhelming interest is a testament to the value and relevance of our programs. Looking ahead to 2025, students can anticipate taking ACLP classes at the conveniently located Pima Community College Downtown Campus, where we will have access to a spacious room equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology. This upgraded environment will enhance the overall presentation quality and educational experience, ensuring that participants receive the best possible training.
I am particularly grateful to have Shannon Scott as a cornerstone of our Tucson ACLP Program. His dedication and expertise have been instrumental in our success. Additionally, I am excited
and recognize areas that require updates to keep pace with the rapidly evolving landscaping industry. In 2025, I am excited to collaborate with ALCA Members through small groups and committees to thoroughly review all of our ACLP classes, ensuring they are not only relevant but also effective in preparing our students for future challenges. If you’re interested in participating in this important process, please don’t hesitate to reach out! Your insights and involvement would be greatly appreciated as we work together to enhance the quality of our program. The ACLP classes in Tucson have experienced an incredible surge in student and member participation, so much so that we have officially outgrown the Auditorium at the Randolph
about the new instructors we are onboarding to co-teach alongside him, allowing us to expand our educational offerings and provide a more diverse range of perspectives and insights to our students.
Thanks to the strong support we’ve received for education in Tucson, ALCA is thrilled to announce that we will be offering the Sustainable Landscape Management® course to our Members and landscape professionals for the very first time in Spring 2025. This is an exciting opportunity that reflects our commitment to sustainability and innovation within the landscaping industry. Together, we are not just building skills; we are cultivating a community dedicated to excellence and environmental stewardship.
ALCA has taken significant strides in offering a range of workshops and webinars tailored for landscape professionals, aimed at enhancing their education and providing supplemental information on specialized topics within the landscaping industry. These sessions have been well-received,
Frances Craik Education Coordinator
highlighting the need for ongoing professional development. In response to industry demands, we are excited to announce the development of more comprehensive programs that will include Certificates of Completion and Certificates of Competency for their respective areas of focus.
Looking ahead, we are eager to collaborate closely with our Members and industry experts to design targeted programs covering a variety of essential topics, including Turf Conversion, Smart Controllers, Outdoor Landscape Lighting, Business Seminars, and Water Conservation. Additionally, we aim to create a platform that brings together Landscape Contractors, Landscape Architects, and Nurserymen and women to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.
These new programs will not only provide opportunities for Continuing Education Units but will also serve as a vital resource for those holding ALCA credentials. By engaging in these educational offerings, professionals can continue to expand their expertise, integrate innovative practices into their work, and enhance their careers in this dynamic industry. We are committed to empowering our Members through education, ensuring they remain at the forefront of landscaping practices and sustainability initiatives.
In the upcoming years, ALCA is committed to expanding our programs to include offerings in Spanish. This initiative is part of our dedication to equity, ensuring that Spanish-speaking professionals in the landscaping industry have access to the same opportunities for career advancement as their English-speaking counterparts. As landscape professionals, they play a crucial role as stewards of our precious desert landscapes and natural resources. It is essential that they are equipped with the information and tools necessary to manage our water, soil, and vegetation sustainably and responsibly. By providing educational resources in Spanish, we aim to foster a more inclusive environment where every professional can thrive and contribute to the health of our ecosystems.
Reflecting on the achievements of 2024, I feel a deep sense of excitement and gratitude for what we have accomplished together. I am incredibly thankful for all the Members and volunteer educators who generously share their time and expertise, enabling us to run impactful educational programs. Their dedication is the backbone of our success. I am continually inspired by the innovative solutions that the landscaping industry brings to the climate challenges we face, and I am eager to continue this important work as ALCA’s Education Coordinator. Together, we are not just educating; we are cultivating a community that is resilient, informed, and proactive in addressing the pressing environmental issues of our time.
I look forward to collaborating with all of you as we embark on this journey of growth and transformation.
ALCA Education 2024
By Frances Craik
Doug Donahue and ACIT participants preparing a Water Audit during ACIT Spring 2024
Shannon Scott, Jason Drain, and Maggie Saulsby, ACLP Tucson Educators with Frances Craik during ACLP Irrigation
Tony Acosta, Leo Acosta, Ralph Holt, and Samantha Bosley celebrating a successful ACLP Irrigation class
Beth Postma and Frances Craik at the SHADE Conference
ALCA Students and Educators next to the tree used for ACLP Tree Planting and Staking demonstration
Arnold Insurance
4545 E Shea Blvd Ste 258
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Brandon Shipman | brandon@myarnoldteam.com
At Arnold Insurance, we believe that each and every client is a person, not just a policy. We offer our clients an experienced team of licensed producers that works alongside an outstanding support staff in offices across the country. Our staff has been serving our local communities for over 50 years by providing the very best coverage possible at the best rate possible. When it comes to protecting the things you care about in life, we want to come alongside you and your family or business and make sure that you have the coverage you need.
Associate Class 1
Desert Scape LLC
401 Desert Poppy Dr Sedona, AZ 86336
Marco Araiza | desertscapellc@gmail.com
Contractor Class 3
Doering Fleet Management
16215 W Granada Rd
Goodyear, AZ 85395
Renee Milium | renee.milum@doeringfleet.com
Doering is a national fleet management company serving fleets from 5 to 1000, providing turnkey solutions including management, best practices, administration, leasing, maintenance, fuel management, disposition, and remarketing.
Associate Class 1
Global Machinery
775 W Elwood Street Phoenix, AZ 85041
Ann Young | ayoung@globalmachinery.com
Global Machinery is a worldwide supplier of new and used specialized equipment focusing on the utility, forestry, land management, rock drilling, and excavation segments of the construction industry. We offer a full range of equipment to meet sales, rental, and leasing requirements throughout the United States and internationally.
Global is staffed by professionals with extensive backgrounds and years of experience in the industries served.
Associate Class 1
Marriott Global Desert Ridge
5350 E Marriott Drive Phoenix, AZ 85054
Clark Moody | clark.moody@marriott.com
Associate Class 1
Petrichor Landscape Management
P.O. Box 55 Apache Junction, AZ 85117
CJ Hargis | carljhargis@petrichorlm.com
Full-service landscape management for commercial properties and Homeowner’s Associations.
Contractor Class 1
BISTRO 12 VOLT STRING KIT
A great addition to any outdoor lighting job, bistro lights add a touch of elegance and ambiance for entertaining. The Brilliance Bistro 12 Volt String Kit comes in 26 ft., 52 ft, 98 ft & 150 ft kit options. Use this low voltage bistro string with the corresponding low voltage string connection accessories for custom length bistro lighting. This string is for use with low voltage lamps only. Dimmable with Brilliance Dimmer & most magnetic transformers. Each kit includes bistro string & a hanging kit. Lamps & connector accessories sold separately.
2024/2025
Calendar of Events
7 ACIT – ALCA Certified Irrigation Technician – ALCA office only (Day 3)
23 ALCA 2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards Gala
23 ACLP Plant Identification – ALCA office or online
25 ACLP Plant Identification – Tucson in Person
30 ACLP Soils and Fertilizer – ALCA office or online
31 SLM – Sustainable Landscape Management – ALCA office or online FEBRUARY
6 ACLP Tree Planting & Staking – ALCA office or online
22 ACLP Tree Planting & Staking – Tucson in Person
27 ACLP Irrigation – ALCA office or online
28 ACLP Irrigation (Spanish) – ALCA office
2023 Excellence in Landscaping Awards Back to Nature Landcare Inc.
Sponsored by:
General Motors EV Hummer Track at State Farm Stadium, Commercial Installation, $100,000 - $500,000, Award of Excellence
2023 Excellence in Landscaping Awards Caretaker Landscape and Tree Management
Cadence at Gateway, Commercial Maintenance
$500,000 - $1 Million, Judges Award
Sponsored by:
2023 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
Creative Environments
Sponsored by:
Sterling Grove By The Toll Brothers Front Yards, Commercial Maintenance $500,000 - $1 Million, Judges Award The Highland Oasis-Private Residence, Residential Installation $50,000 - $100,000, Award of Excellence
Sterling Grove Marketing Trail, Commercial Installation $500,000 - $1 Million, Award of Distinction
Preserve at Santan Community Areas, Commercial Installation Over $1 Million, Award of Distinction
Signature at the Phoenician Community Area, Commercial Installation $100,000 - $300,000, Award of Distinction
2023 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
Creative Environments
Sponsored by:
Paradigm, Residential Installation
$100,000 -$200,000, Award of Distinction The Desert Sanctuary- Private Residence, Residential Installation $500,000 - $1 Million, Award of Distinction
Reserve at Storyrock, Residential Installation $500,000 - $1 Million, Award of Distinction
Prelude at Oro Ridge, Residential Installation
$200,000 - $300,000, Award of Distinction
Stone Crest, Residential Installation $300,000 - $500,000, Award of Distinction
2023 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
Creative Environments
Sponsored by:
Rosewood Canyon, Residential Installation
$500,000 - $1 Million, Judges Award
Atalon Collection at Adero Canyon, Residential Installation Over $1 Million, Award of Excellence
Waterston North, Residential Installation
$500,000 - $1 Million, Award of Distinction
Sterling Grove ModelsHastings, Ballantyne, St Helena, Residential Installation Over $1 Million, Award of Excellence
Rosewood Highlands, Residential Installation
$500k-$1M, Judges Award
2023 Excellence in Landscaping Awards Hillman Workshop
Sponsored by:
2023 Excellence in Landscaping Award Sponsors
Belgard/Superlite Block
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
Enterprise Fleet Management
Enterprise Fleet Management is a privatelyheld, full-service fleet management business for companies, government agencies and organizations operating medium-sized fleets of 20 or more vehicles, as well as those seeking an alternative to employee reimbursement programs. Part of our total transportation solution, Enterprise Fleet Management is an affiliate of Enterprise Holdings Inc. and owned by the Taylor family of St. Louis, Mo. 480-783-8124 www.efleets.com
OnSite OilChange Plus
OnSite OilChange Plus is the oil change shop that comes to you. They perform services in residential and commercial locations. OnSite OilChange Plus services cars, trucks, RVs, and fleets. (480) 470-0352 onsiteoilchangeplus.com
Midway Chevrolet/Isuzu
Midway Commercial Truck and Fleet Outlet is dedicated to providing its customers with the finest new and used Chevrolet and Isuzu commercial trucks and commercial vans. 2201 W Bell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85023 (833) 895-6832 www.midwaycommercial.com
Optima Kierland, Commercial Installation Over $1 Million, Award of Excellence
Power Tools
Article provided by Grainger
tools present more hazards than hand tools due to the speed at which they operate and the potential for the user to come into contact with the power source (electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic etc.). There are differences between the PPE suggested for use with hand tools and the PPE suggested for safe power tool use.
Eye protection, such as safety glasses or goggles, is especially important when using power tools. The speed at which drills, saws, grinders, sanders and routers operate can propel small particles much faster and farther than hand tools. Others working around the area where power tools are used
should also wear protective eyewear. Certain power tools may require using a face shield, in addition to safety glasses or goggles. For example, a face shield is suggested while using a grinder, due to the amount of hot metal particles generated. A face shield is considered a secondary form of eye protection and should always be used in conjunction with a primary from of protection – safety glasses or goggles. OSHA’s Eye and Face Protection eTool describes the role of a face shield as PPE this way, “When worn alone, face shields do not protect employees from impact hazards. Use face shields in combination with safety spectacles or goggles, even in the absence of dust or potential splashes, for additional protection beyond that offered by spectacles or goggles alone.”
Standard cotton or leather work gloves can protect your hands from minor scrapes and cuts while working with various materials. Cut-resistant gloves are not designed for, or capable of providing protection against a moving blade or bit. The best way to prevent injury from moving parts is to keep your hands on the tools' handles and keep all guards in place. Anti-vibration gloves minimize the vibration created by hammerdrills and rotary hammerdrills.
Safety footwear is recommended when using power tools. Safety shoes with a nonslip, electrically insulated sole and a protective toe cap will provide protection against dropped objects and misdirected electricity. The higher sound levels generated by some power tools, especially if used over extended periods of time, may require the use of earplugs or earmuffs. Power sanding and grinding operations may require the use of a particulate respirator. Each situation must be analyzed to determine the type of PPE that is required for the safe use of each type of power tool. Along with PPE, proper attire is also important while using power tools. Tie back or cover long hair and don’t wear loose or torn clothing. Hair and clothing that strays too far from the body can get caught in power tools. Because of this potential, loose jewelry should be avoided as well. Find more safety tip articles on ALCA’s website - https://www.azlca. com/safety-tips.
Cut Costs and Time Without Cutting Hardscape
Designed for Hunter ICC2 and HCC Controllers, the innovative Wireless Valve Link lets you connect valves without running wire or cutting into hardscape. When complex landscapes pose a challenge, go wireless!
Evergreen Turf, Inc.
Grassin the Desert? Why, Yes! Wherever people live and play, there is a need for grass! COVID taught us a lot of lessons, (most of them we hope to never repeat), but one of the lessons that resonates with our industry, people more than ever, want to be outdoors. They want fresh air. They want to connect with nature. They want to live a healthy lifestyle. For anyone with small children or pets, that means natural grass under their bare feet! Literally!
tomers find the best grass for their specific needs. Evergreen grows more than 10 different grasses, just for Arizona, each with its own specific use to ensure the success of our recreational space in the Sonoran Desert.
TifTuf has made a splash the last few years. After rigorous testing in Arizona and California, we can confirm that it is the most drought tolerant bermudagrass on the market today. You will begin to see it’s use on golf courses and sport fields first. Fairways have already been converted at Alta Mesa CC, The Biltmore, Pebble Creek GC, McCormick Ranch and a number of other local golf courses. The Arizona Cardinals have upgraded their stadium with TifTuf, and along with a number of High Schools. We are beginning to see homeowners request TifTuf as they hope to lower their water bill by using this grass.
As landscapes and trees mature, we see shade lines extending into grass areas. No grass can tolerate 100% shade in Arizona, but TifGrand and Palmetto St. Augustine both tolerate as little as 4-6 hours of sunlight. The right grass for the right application!
The pandemic brought better than expected sales to the sod industry. The Pandemic helped increase the rounds of golf, which in turn, created a demand for sod repair work and upgrades to golf courses. Sports fields are increasing in demand as youth sports are at an all-time high. More people are working from home, realizing the need to upgrade their outdoor living space. Natural grass saw a huge resurgence as people realized that life outdoors is more pleasant with cool grass underfoot.
As we face record drought and record heat, many people feel that grass has no place in the desert, but the reality is, if people are going to live in this desert, then the responsible use of grass will be a part of our lives. How do we balance the use of grass while saving water?
At Evergreen Turf our first priority has always been to help our cus-
Midiron is still king of our landscape grasses, the main reason, it is the easiest grass to maintain. The easiest to overseed, and the best transitioning grass from overseeding. It can be mowed at 3 inches or half an inch, it is drought tolerant and produces very little thatch.
Tifway is still the standard for sports turf and golf course fairways Arizona. A durable hybrid that makes a great playing surface for athletes. Grown on soil or sand.
Tifgreen, once the standard for golf course putting greens, it is now used for high quality fairways, home lawns and even a few, low use sports fields.
Honorable mention: Other grasses that have specialized uses are MiniVerde Ultra-dwarf, TifEagle Ultra-dwarf, and TifDwarf. Evergreen Turf was established 25 years ago right here in Arizona. We now have operations in New Mexico, Southwest Texas, and California. No matter which of our farms you deal with, you can be sure that we will help you choose the right grass, for the right location, grown the right way!
Tackling Sustainability Challenges One Irrigation Controller at a Time
Fromresidential landscapes to agricultural zones to sports fields, a well-managed watering plan is a must for maintaining usable green spaces, growing food, and connecting people with the outdoors. Smart irrigation plays a vital role in achieving new levels of sustainability for the environment and the communities where we live, work, and play. One component of smart irrigation that is frequently ignored is the practice of upgrading older or malfunctioning irrigation controllers to newer, more efficient units—and disposing of old items in an environmentally responsible manner.
Generally, irrigation products are meant to go unnoticed. They’re installed underground or in hard-to-reach places and are designed to blend in with the surrounding environment. When all parts of an irrigation system are working as intended, it’s easy to forget that these products are all around us. By the same token, we forget they must be replaced periodically and responsibly disposed of.
This is where Blue Star Recyclers comes in. The award-winning 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization creates jobs for people with autism and other disabilities by recycling electronics and other e-waste. Blue Star Recyclers is tackling sustainability challenges in the irrigation industry one controller at a time by ethically recycling old controllers and creating jobs in the process. Diverting waste from landfills directly benefits the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions generated during transportation and processing. Additionally, recycling the components allows them to be reused in new ways, which conserves natural resources. Finally, when these old controllers are removed, current-generation controllers can be installed in their place, saving significant amounts of water and energy.
Since launching, Blue Star Recyclers has experienced breakout success and reached full sustainability. Over time, Blue Star Recyclers has increased its e-waste processing capacity from 250,000 pounds to 30 million pounds, making the organization the largest electronics recycler in Colorado. The team has grown as well, from six to over 100 employees across four facilities in two states.
How the Hunter-Blue Star Recyclers Partnership Began
As part of our broader Corporate Social Responsibility goals, Hunter Industries established a target to achieve a zero-net-waste certification by 2030. This means at least 90% of our waste must be diverted from landfills. So far, we have recycled more than six tons of discarded irrigation controllers and helped pay for six days of employment for one Blue Star Recyclers team member. Hunter wants every irrigation controller in the world recycled. To achieve this goal, we need your help. That’s why we have expanded our Irrigation Controller Recycling Program to Hunter Preferred Program members nationwide. For more information, visit: https://hunter.info/controllerrecycling.
Elevating the Irrigation Industry
Blue Star Recyclers helps the irrigation industry achieve sustainability goals by making it easy to upgrade less efficient controllers to the current generation of smart controllers. These new internet-connected controllers automatically fine-tune irrigation schedules based on real-time conditions, saving significant amounts of water. Smart controllers offer two major benefits for the environment: conserving energy by updating irrigation schedules to prevent watering when it’s not needed, and saving water, the source of life for our communities. Additionally, Blue Star Recyclers has inspired industry organizations to put competition aside for the greater good by establishing industry-wide best practices for sustainability in the process.
“We take our responsibility to the planet very seriously at Hunter Industries,” said Warren Gorowitz, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Hunter Industries. “By partnering with Blue Star Recyclers, we accelerate our ability to make positive social and environmental impacts that benefit local communities while safeguarding our world for future generations.”
At Hunter, we’re striving to advance our sustainability goals by developing new water-saving technologies, products, and services that will have an impact far beyond our industry. We salute the unsung heroes of the industry, like Blue Star Recyclers, for their commendable environmental and social achievements. To learn more about Blue Star Recyclers and the organization’s mission, visit http://www.bluestarrecyclers.org/.
Do
Magrogan Designated Broker
Hill & Usher & Trim Risk
25+ Years of Service to Landscape, Lawn Care and Tree Professionals
About us
Hill & Usher proudly celebrates 26 years in business in 2023. Like you, we have enjoyed solid years of growth most years, and those occasional years with stalls and learning experiences.
A long History
Richard wrote Arizona’s Prompt Payment statute that was signed in to law in 2001. His speaking on indemnity and risk transfer fairness issues led to reforms in nearly a dozen states. Richard leads a team of 40 insurance professionals in Arizona focused on fairness, family and lifestyle for clients and employees. Hill & Usher realizes insurance is a necessity but fights hard for premium reductions and improved insurance coverage.
How to Control Increased Insurance Rates
Inflation is well in our midst. Our goal is to beat inflationary impulses for our customers who strongly control losses, while mitigating premium increases for valued customers who aren’t able to reduce losses.
As Steve Shields notes, “our landscaper clients can go two directions, and we try to have them prepared as well as possible. One direction is to shop hard with insurance, which we always do. We have a strong team and solid insurance carriers who put your account to market. The better, more sustainable long term strategy is to promote safety within the organization, often and regularly. Many of our clients abided by social distancing measures and in so doing, put a pause on in-person safety meetings. We were surprised to see what kind of a difference and the toll taken by a lack of tool box talks had on experience with both Workers Compensation and Automobile claims wrought from a change in routine safety conversations.”
Let’s talk Safety, Training, Cyber Liability and Hiring
These major risks go hand in hand. We preach an environment of awareness of these big known risks and emerging risks. It’s easy for your accountant to pay the wrong person, at your cost through a cyber / social engineering loss. Often its uninsured because its either a neglected risk or an unwanted expense of insurance.
Hard Markets
Auto insurance is a problem with expensive auto repairs and increases in tort activity for bodily injury and uninsured / underinsured motorist claims. The best managed fleets should expect an 8% increase in Business Auto insurance premiums.
Workers Compensation has traditionally decreased since the 1990s in Arizona. It’s down another 6% for most buyers today automatically, based on filed NCCI rates. Watch the rates as insurance companies will change rates upward (increase) to accommodate automatic rate reductions.
Get in touch with Hill & Usher
On your next renewal, get to know Hill & Usher by calling one of our Sales Professionals at 602-956-4220 or sales@hillusher.com. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you.
Average # of Employees _______ Please provide a brief profile of your organization:
(Based on annual sales revenue in the landscape Industry)
Contractor Member: person, partnership or corporation actively engaged in the construction or maintenance of landscapes.
Contractor Class 1 (Sales Revenue under $100,000)
$275 or 690 Hunter Points
Contractor Class 2 (Sales Revenue $100,001—$500,000)
$370 or 925 Hunter Points
Contractor Class 3 (Sales Revenue $500,001—$1.5M)
$580 or 1450 Hunter Points
Contractor Class 4 (Sales Revenue Over $1.5M)
$880 or 2200 Hunter Points
Architects & Designers $275
Arborist - Certified
Backflow Services
BBQ supplies, Fire Pits, Fireplaces
Boulder/Granite-Wholesale
Cacti/Succulents-Wholesale
Chemicals-Wholesale
Color/Shrubs-Wholesale
Curbing Equipment Sales/Rentals
Financial
Garden Centers
GPS Tracking
Hardscape Installation
Horticulture Consultant
Plantscaping
Irrigation Construction/Repair
Irrigation Manufacturer
Irrigation Supplier
Landscape Architect
Landscape Commercial Construction
Landscape Commercial Design
Landscape Commercial Maintenance
Landscape Lighting Installation
Landscape Lighting Manufacturer
Landscape Lighting Supplier
Landscape Material Supplier
Landscape Residential Construction
Associate M Member: person, firm, partnership or corporation engaged in a business or industry allied with the landscape industry.
Associate Class 1(Under $1M) $550
Associate Class 2($1—$5M) $715
Associate Class 3($5—$10M) $880
Associate Class 4 (Over $10M) $1100
Municipalities, golf courses, $150 ACLP students & Educators
High School/College Student Free
Landscape Residential Design
Landscape Residential Maintenance
Legal
Marketing
Masonry/Paving
Merchant Services
Misting
Nursery
Organic Fertilizer-Wholesale
Paver Supplier
Pest Control Applicator
Pottery-Wholesale
Propane & Alternative Fuel
Risk Management
Payment Method
Rock/Gravel-Wholesale
Sod/Turf-Wholesale
Swimming Pool/Spa Installation
Synthetic Grass Supplier
Tree Relocation
Tree Trimming/Removal
Trees/Palms-Wholesale
Truck/Vehicle Sales
Waste Disposal
Water Feature Installation
RESOURCE GUIDE/AD INDEX
BUSINESS BROKER
Macor Associates, Inc. (602) 989-9960
macorassociates.com
Please see our ad on page 19
COMMERCIAL FLEET VEHICLES
Diversified Truck & Equipment Sales, Inc. (480) 854-7373
DTBody.com
Please see our ad on page 7
FLEET & VEHICLE MANAGEMENT
OnSite OilChange Plus (480) 470-0352
onsiteoilchangeplus.com
Please see our ad on page .... Inside Back Cover
INSURANCE
Hill & Usher (602) 667-1848
trimrisk.com
Please see our ad on page 6
IRRIGATION PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS
Horizon (800) PVCTURF (782-8873) horizononline.com
Please see our ad on page 11
Hunter Industries (760) 744-5240
hunterindustries.com
Please see our ad on page 17
LANDSCAPE CERTIFICATION TRAINING/TESTING
Metro Institute (602) 452-2900
metroinstitute.com
Please see our ad on page 22
LANDSCAPE EQUIPMENT
BCS (800) 543-1040
BCSamerica.com
Please see our ad on page 4
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 11
LIGHTING
Brilliance LED, LLC (800) 867-2108
brillianceled.com
Please see our ad on page 10
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 20
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 Back Cover
West Coast Turf (888) 893-8873
westcoastturf.com
Please see our ad on page
TREES
Western Tree Company (602) 243-6125
westerntree.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.
Please see our ad on page 5
