B. C. L A N D S C A P E & N U R S E R Y A S S O C I AT I O N P U B L I C AT I O N • A P R I L 2 0 0 8
How Far Will Food Miles Travel? The hundred-mile diet has received all sorts of press for its efforts to reduce the metaphoric coating of oil that accompanies New Zealand apples and Peruvian asparagus to our grocery store bins. Without launching into the debate on the true environmental impact of imported produce, it’s safe to say that the public is beginning to take notice. And so has BC’s government. Last fall, the feds provided British Columbia with nearly $200 million from the Eco Trust Fund to support initiatives leading to the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Among proposals to invest in bio-energy and “clean” electricity was one to facilitate the public’s awareness and identification of locally produced food. The Food Miles proposal was granted $3 million over three years, and representatives from the blueberry, potato, greenhouse growers, BC’s Ag Council, and the BCLNA met to discuss the merits and pitfalls of such a program, just last month. Immediately clarified was what Food Miles cannot be: a) It cannot be delivered as a panacea for climate change; there are too many controversies surrounding its actual impact in relation to other industries and practices. b) It cannot replace imports; apart from the demands and profitability of a modern diet, consider the political cost of excluding imports is when local producers are sustained by export markets. c) It cannot be another sticker on fruit. Or tag in a plant pot. So where will Food Miles take us? Clearly the program’s primary aim will be to identify and encourage BC’s public to buy local, be it within 100 miles or within the province.
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Sound familiar? buyBC, a government program launched in the early 90’s, aimed to do just that. It was largely successful (the BC Agriculture Council says that 75% of this province’s consumers recognize the logo), but a change in government eliminated its funding and, to an extent, its reach. Producers’ representatives offered the following suggestions for accomplishing the buy-local aim without needlessly rebuilding buyBC under a different name: a) Do some benchmarking: determine what local industry exists for given products. b) Determine its objective: is it to promote BC grown items? Discourage purchases of imports? Reduce the amount of in-season imports? c) Determine a course of action, and ensure it’s adequately funded without duplication of existing programs. David Coney, Senior Policy Analyst with the Ministry of Agriculture & Lands offered some immediate and inexpensive options for beginning the awareness campaign right away, which included a Google-Maps type website where people can find producers or supporting grocers and restaurants near their homes, and tie-in with LiveSmartBC, an efficiencyincentive program. Food Miles is truly in a preliminary stage. But for producers, including BCLNA growers, it can function as one more marketing tool to support local products’ local appeal. Tagging on to a mass-marketing campaign far exceeds the reach of any one company. Watch for more info in the coming months. And don’t worry—it won’t be just another plant tag. ■
3 BCLNA Board Highlights 4 BCLNA News Bulletins 6 Classifieds 8 Industry Bits 10 Grower Updates 12 BCMAL Report 14 On The Roads
4/7/08 3:00:26 PM
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Message from the President
Proactive Growers Raise Sophistication of Industry BCLNA growers have
been bombarded with “programs” since P. ramorum was introduced to BC nearly 5 years ago. Decisive crisis management showed the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and our industry that growers are proactive in preventing and managing potential risk from movement of nursery stock. We are now seeing the culmination of that initial response in certification, designed to both mitigate the spread of P. ramorum and to ensure the health of plant product in the face of future pests or diseases. These programs, which include the
Domestic Phytosanitary Certification Program (DPCP) and the P. ramorum Certification Program have been carefully designed by a broad selection of grower volunteers, supported by BCLNA staff, scientists and government agencies. What does this mean to our growers? Added phytosanitary protocols, complex product tracking systems and the need for enhanced business savvy. It’s another step away from the “old days” of being a farmer, to be sure. But it also means that the nursery and landscape industry is “growing up” in the world of business. Ours is not the first industry to face ISO-type regulation. Ask any producer of food crops, any engineer or tradesman. Yet we are thankful that our food is clean,
our infrastructure safe, and the airplane operating to stringent mechanical standards when we fly off to Mazatlan on holidays. The nursery business is not one of life-and-death, but as environmental awareness increases, so does our awareness of our potential impact on it. I am proud of BCLNA growers who, through our association, have come together to ensure their products do not spread pest or disease. Our landscapers and retailers would do well to support local growers who participate in these programs to the benefit of us all.
Fred Giesbrecht, President,
B.C. Landscape & Nursery Association
HortWest APRIL 2008
LANDSCAPE
CONTRACTORS WANTED The Home Depot is installing residential landscapes and is looking for additional landscape professionals to design and build landscapes in Western Canada. We have great opportunities in Abbotsford, Courtenay, Cranbrook, Kamloops, Kelowna, Nanaimo, Prince George, Vernon, Victoria and Westbank. If you are interested in finding out more about joining the Home Depot Landscape Team, please contact: Lindsay Davidson (604) 463-0075 lindsaysplantsource@shaw.ca
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MANAGING EDITOR Renata Triveri ADVERTISING Barb Nelson Phone: (604) 574-7772 Fax: (604) 574-7773 HortWest is the Newsletter of the B.C. Landscape & Nursery Association for the horticultural trade in Western Canada. For further information, contact us at: Suite 102, 5783 – 176A Street Surrey, B.C., Canada V3S 6S6 Telephone (604) 574-7772 Fax (604) 574-7773 HortWest is owned by the B.C. Landscape & Nursery Association, and is published 10 times a year. Views expressed inside do not necessarily reflect the attitudes of the Association but are those of the writer concerned. Material may not be reprinted from this magazine without the consent of the publisher. All advertising and editorial material are to be received one month in advance of mail out date. HortWest is mailed under Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement N. 0288608 This magazine is printed in Canada by Globe Printers.
4/7/08 3:00:34 PM
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BCLNA Board Highlights
Monday, March 17, 2008 President’s Report: Jane Stock continues to deal with health challenges. At the time of printing, we learned that Jane was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Her oncologist outlined that they have an excellent success rate of treating this type of cancer.
was successful; affiliate garden exhibitors are excited to return next year. More than 40 people have registered for the March 19 Island Chapter meeting at Glendale Gardens. A total of eight meetings will be scheduled throughout the year at various locations on the Island with other events in between.
Executive Director Search: Fifty-nine applications were received; eight candidates were interviewed in March. A further shortlist was determined upon a second round of interviews that included skill testing. The goal is to have the successful candidate selected by the beginning of April with a start date of early May or sooner.
Grower Commodity: The Environmental Farm Plan Program (EFP) has been extended for one year with $3.2 million dollars in place. BCLNA will continue to administer the program for ornamental nursery, berry, field vegetable, floral and greenhouse vegetable sectors in the Fraser Valley. The contract is for one year; the administration is considered light but will be compensated. New additions to the P. ramorum host plant list include Cercis spp. and Rhamnus spp. More than 120 nurseries have participated
Island Chapter: The BCLNA and garden area at the Victoria Home & Garden Show
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in the Domestic Phytosanitary Certification Program, with 240+ attendees participating in workshops across Canada. Landscape Commodity: Good progress is being made on updating the Landscape Standards. The goal is to have the seventh edition ready for print by the end of April. Legislation & Political Action: Sandy Mathies of Cannor Nurseries has been elected to the BC Agriculture Council as a director. Membership/Special Events: The annual auction raised $35,280, up from just over $32,000 last year. The annual golf tournament is taking place June 24 at Redwoods Golf Course. The directors have advised staff that digital copies of the BCLNA membership list is not to be distributed to members or non-members. ■
2/21/08 10:08:05 AM
4/7/08 3:00:38 PM
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BCLNA News Bulletins
Retail Environment Summit On March 3, the BCLNA hosted a workshop to bring 50 participants from 35 organizations together for a discussion surrounding responsible pest management practices. The goal was to discover these organizations’ roles in promoting environmentally friendly pest management practices to the public. Further, it sought collaborative ways that
the organizations and BC’s garden retailers could partner to both streamline and better support these efforts. The session was the first of three, with Vancouver Island and Interior workshops expected later this year. While several priority actions were identified (these will be announced once Island and
Interior results are gathered and incorporated) it was interesting to note the roles various agencies, organizations and businesses play in promoting responsible pest management practices to the homeowner and the general public. An impressive number of initiatives are ongoing, and there was overwhelming recognition that partnerships would improve awareness and fast-track healthier landscape practices.
Who Influences Pest Management Practices? Stakeholder
Role in Pest Management
Federal Government Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA)
• Pesticide registration/revaluation • Health and environment value assessments • Compliance and enforcement • Sustainable strategies for agriculture and urban settings.
Provincial Government BC Ministry of Environment & BC Ministry of Agriculture & Lands
• Regulation of transportation, sale, use, storage, disposal of pesticides • Licensing and/or registration of vendors and commercial applicators • Standards for training, certification • Promotes compliance with standards for use of IPM and environmental protection • Regulates further conditions on use.
Municipal Government Cities & Towns Throughout BC
• Right to pass bylaws to ban or place conditions on pesticide use • Public education and awareness through shows, civic gatherings, publications, etc. • Some have developed training programs for retail nursery staff to promote consistency of key pest management messaging
Community Organizations Environment, Health, Communities in Bloom, Master Gardeners & Others
• Similar to those done by municipalities • Public outreach; activities include landscape and garden pest management education • Delivering training to front-line retail staff and situating presentations at retail locations * Often face funding and volunteer challenges which affect continuity of their programs. Partnerships are key to their success.
Retail Nurseries and Garden Centres Front-Line Communicators to the Gardening Public
• Staff support and one-on-one education and advice • Literature and info publication (eg: newsletters, web, etc) and/or distribution of existing literature • Workshops and seminars, either self-produced or as hosts to community organizations * Though committed to healthy environments, often constrained by day-to-day business, staffing, and availability of educational resources.
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Current Initiatives PMRA • Subdivision of domestic pesticides into self-select and controlled purchase products; regulatory directive to be published in Spring 2008 • Improved labelling for domestic products • Training materials and programs for domestic vendors, to be linked with the two new domestic categories of products • Regulatory directive (DIR2002-02) for reduced risk and low risk pesticides • Pest Control Products Act now supporting a more transparent registration process that includes mandatory public consultation, electronic public registry, and allows public to inspect test data and file objections to major registration decisions.
BC Ministry of Environment • Development of First Nations consultation process • Monitoring to ensure standards protect human health and environment • Development of compliance process for new IPM standards (notes for landscapers: www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/ipmp/regs) • Pesticide applicator training/certification materials/exam (now closed book). • Reviewing options for provincial involvement in regulating cosmetic pest control, which may include info collection, changing point of sale requirements, initiating greater promotion of alternatives, limiting pesticide use to trained individuals, banning cosmetic pesticide use or sale.
BCMAL • Diagnostic lab where plants, insects and their affiliated diseases can be identified • Printing of Invasive Alien Species handbook • Update of Home Gardener’s Guide • Biosecurity guidelines for garden centres receiving samples from the public for diagnostics testing at lab • Outreach to the industry and public on specific pests via fact sheets, book marks, presentations.
4/7/08 3:00:39 PM
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Island Chapter Gets a Boost From the Island Chapter Executive It’s a new season, Vancouver Island’s horticulture industry has set up a new Executive, and they are ready to make a fresh start. The Island Chapter’s goal is to reinforce its role in the BCLNA, and make it relevant and useful to all Island members. Together, the executive and membership will work together to promote, educate and inform the membership and public on issues concerning the industry. To that end, the Island Chapter resolves to: • Hold regular meetings in Victoria and up Island • Present knowledgeable and interesting speakers at meetings • Spend less time on the ‘business’ of the BCLNA and more time on industry issues • Hold open, informal discussions on the concerns of the day, such as finding and keeping staff, supply problems and dealing with regulatory issues • Make time during the meetings for a little socializing. Let’s get to know each other! Meetings are open to all members and their employees, as well as non-members who work in the landscape or nursery trades. Fully half the Island Chapter members live north of the Malahat. In the interest of inclusion, the Island Chapter is looking for someone to help coordinate meetings Nanaimo-North with support from Victoria-area members. Meetings will be held in Victoria on March 19, April 16, June 18, July 16, September 17 and October 15. Mark the dates on your calendars! The BCLNA works on behalf of all of us—isn’t it time you got involved? For more information or to volunteer your help, contact Island Rep Stephan Cranz: stephcranz@shaw.ca. continued on page 7
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4/7/08 3:00:39 PM
the classifieds For Sale Erica Enterprises Wholesale Nursery Ltd. Going concern facility, growing nursery stock in rural Pitt Meadows on quiet no thru road. Sale includes: 3,800 sq. ft. 3 year old residence, 19.49 acres of level land, warehouse, greenhouses, delivery truck and all machinery.
GROWER SERVICES LTD. "HARD GOODS & PLANT MATERIAL FROM THE WORLD'S FINEST SOURCES" • ITML & KORD CONTAINERS • PLUG TRAYS: LANDMARK & TLC • ITML NURSERY CONTAINERS • JIFFY & PREFORMA GROWING SYSTEMS
Asking price $4,064,000 Canadian. Plant inventory is not included in sale and can be negotiated separately.
8168 River Way, Delta, B.C. V4G 1K5
Erica Enterprises Ltd. 14021 Rippington Road, Pitt Meadows BC V3Y 1Z1 Phone (604) 465-6732; Fax (604) 465-2307 Email ericaenterprises@shaw.ca
Tel: 604-946-5641 Fax: 604-946-0234 Toll Free: 1-800-498-7403 www.crofton.ca
For Sale 1998 Chevy Cube Van, 3500 gas, 16' box, ramp. 150,000 km, very clean, excellent shape, new tires $19,000. Call Bev (250) 295-6419 or Bev_HappyHollow@ uniserve.com
Presents
KNOW YOUR TOW Information Sessions (2hrs)
For Sale
* Is your driver’s licence legal? * Is your vehicle licence legal? * How to calculate weights. * Required pre-trip routines. * CVSE roadside inspections.
Used Super JAVO potting machine, in very good working condition. Complete with new pot dispenser incl. 2m long conveyor. New pneumatic auto take-off, new 6 m long variable speed pot conveyor. Pot holders 4," 5," 6," 1 gal, 2 gal and 3 gal. Price $19,800 obo. Phone Peter (604) 857-2572
To Book, Call Rich at Valley Driving School
604 513 5884 Call us for all your native and ornamental plant needs
Retailers • Growers • Landscapers • Brokers • Architects Are you buying from P. ramorum certified nurseries?
LINNAEA NURSERIES LTD. Tel: 604-533-8281 Fax: 604-533-8246 1-888-327-7705 email: linnaea@telus.net 3666 - 224th Street, Langley, BC V2Z 2G7 Canada
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Do your part to minimize the spread of this disease, and protect your company and your clients’ landscapes.
National Volunteer Week April 27 – May 3 BCLNA recognizes the dedication
and support of all our volunteers and donors. Sincere thanks to all members who volunteer their time, and their financial and human resources to the betterment of our association and our industry.
For a list of certified nurseries, go to www.CanadaNursery.com and click on Nursery Programs.
4/7/08 3:00:40 PM
7
BCLNA News Bulletins
Hit Seminar
Highest Bidder Sandy Mathies of Cannor Nursery, $5311
50/50 Winner
George Cook, Creative Embroidery, $150
Cash Reverse Winner
Brian Huttema, Mijodelu Landscaping & Renovations, $305
Hot Tub Featured Lot
Purchased by R. Dernisky of Specimen Trees for $5000
Landscape members participated in a “Should I Expand My Business?” seminar at the BCLNA office in March. Jamie Lamont of GSU Landscaping said “It was probably one of the best seminars I have attended, in terms of topic, discussion and the opportunity to share with my peers the demands of operating a landscaping business.” Brandt Tractor sponsored the seminar. Worksite Product Specialist Rick Cleghorn attended and commented, “Brandt is very pleased to be part of the BCLNA and to support the continuing efforts to elevate the standards, skill sets and professionalism in our shared industry. Our involvement with the BCLNA and its membership opens channels for communication and allows us to get feedback on what we can do to help improve the efficiencies, tools, safety and support that members of our industry need from us to grow stronger and more profitable.”
Auction a Success BCLNA’s annual fundraising auction at United Flower Growers grossed $35,280 in support of various industry programs. The event’s organizing committee is pleased to report that $4000 will go to three scholarships (Kwantlen University College and Capilano College). Additional funds will be directed towards Export Development and Inside BC Marketing initiatives, as well as Chapter support. BCLNA sincerely thanks all who donated to the auction, volunteered, and purchased items in benefit of industry advancement.
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Gardens Flourished at Home & Garden Show
This year’s BC Home & Garden Show thrived with 10 feature gardens, four urban decks and more than 60,000 people in attendance. Truly a highlight, the show included more feature gardens than ever before, and launched an urban deck showcase to cater to small-space city gardens. While homeowners looked to the gardens’ great planting schemes and hardscaping ideas for inspiration, the installations were judged by some tough critics. Kudos to the following companies for their awardwinning displays. Most Original
ERNI
We offer full plant service
Send us your wish list or job and we will send you a quote – phone, fax or email
..Look for our
BIG RED BARN!
Coastal Creations/Pacific Nurseries
Best Use of Texture and Colour Horizon Landscape Contractors
Best Overall
Watermark Gardens
Greenest Garden Jovak Landscape & Design
Best Overall Urban Deck Allscapes Horticulture Services
Rookie Award
EAST RICHMOND NURSERIES INC. 18431 Westminster Hwy., Richmond, B.C. V6V 1B1 Ph. 604 278-0976 Fax 604 244-2924 e-mail sales@erniplants.com
Burnco Rock Products
4/7/08 3:00:48 PM
CNLA’s Member Service Manager Joseph
Salemi (left), and Professional and Business Development Manager Joel Beatson.
8
Industry Bits
CNLA Staff Get Certified BCLNA congratulates Joseph Salemi and Joel Beatson, who achieved their Certified Association Executive designations last month. The pair were required to have at least five years experience in association management, or two years and a university degree. They also completed five CAE® courses and successfully wrote the exam.
Said CNLA President Michael Murray, “This is a great accomplishment and demonstrates a commitment to continuing education and certification. The CNLA is fortunate to have employees like Joe and Joel, who continually set and achieve goals for continued professional development and education.”
Change of Guard at McConkey Washington-based McConkey Co., manufacturer and distributor of horticultural supplies and equipment, has added Tom Brewer to its sales team. Brewer joins McConkey Co. as Sales Manager, with 17 years experience with Tanasacres Nursery in Hillsboro, Oregon. He also has a broad repertoire of industry involvement, currently sitting
on the board of the Oregon Association of Nurseries, and is an active member of that state’s association of Landscape Contractors. Meanwhile, the company bids farewell to Bob Metke who, after 32 years with McConkey, is retiring and moving on to a more relaxed lifestyle. Bob, along with wife Marianna, has been a colourful staple at BCLNA functions. His BC customers have come to trust his advice and guidance throughout the years, and he will be missed.
Growing Hearts Plant Inspiration
Jones created the project while participating in a Landmark Education leadership program, and installation began last month. He adds, “I have always wanted to do landscaping that is essential and not just a luxury. This unique project will give fun and joy back to the community for years.” The installation has been supported by Quality Printing, One Call Locators, Finning Canada, Waterscene, Oasis Waterfalls, Kato’s Nursery, Nutchinson Nursery, Envisage Landscape Design, Malvina’s Design Group, Huckleberry Landscape Design, Peak Playgrounds, Think Green Landscaping Inc., Denbow, Paridon Horticultural and of course an army of volunteers.
Steve Jones, owner of urban-escapes and founder of Growing Hearts, is urging industry professionals to contribute to the installation of a “fun challenge circuit” at Sunny Hill Health Centre for Children. The circuit will be installed free of charge with material and labour contributions from the industry.
To get involved, contact Steve Jones at (604) 602-0189, or via email to stevejones@growinghearts.ca.
Says Jones, “Kids with varying degrees of mobility will use the circuit to improve their skills and coordination, and to be assessed by Sunny Hill health care staff. We’ve designed the circuit specifically for the centre and the kids’ needs; it will also include a playground and interactive sensory garden.”
Angelica and Paul Buikema (Progress Landscaping) welcomed a son to their family on February 24. Baby Ayden James was born at 11:18 pm weighing 8lbs 6oz. Congratulations Paul and Angelica!
New Addition for Buikema Family
For All Your Insurance Needs
Created for the green industry. Protecting the green industry.
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4/7/08 3:00:54 PM
BCLNA OFFICE: 604-574-7772; 800-421-7963
events
Industry
and programs
Kamloops Home & Garden Show April 18 – 20 McArthur Sports Centre Kamloops, BC
Swing into Spring at BCLNA’s Annual Golf Tournament June 24, 2008 Redwoods Golf Course 22011-88th Avenue, Langley www.redwoods-golf.com To register your foursome or donate a prize call, contact Heidi or Barb at the BCLNA: 604-574-7772 or info@bclna.com. For more info, see this month’s Extras!
BCSLA Convention & Trade Show May 2 – 3 Plaza 500 Hotel & Convention Centre Vancouver, BC www.bcsla.org Burnaby Rhododendron Festival May 4 Shadbolt Centre for the Arts Burnaby, BC www.brags.ca BCLNA Landscape Commodity Meeting June 19 Evergro/Westgro Delta, BC www.bclna.com BCLNA Golf Tournament June 24 Redwoods Golf Course Langley, BC www.bclna.com CHT, CLD, CLP Exam Day July 11 – 12 Kwantlen University College Langely, BC www.bclna.com
Out of Province Events ANLA Retail Roadshow June 16 – 19 Dayton, OH www.anla.org Ohio Short Course July 12 – 15 Columbia, OH www.ofa.org Perennial Plant Symposium July 20 – 26 Philadelphia, PA www.perennialplant.org
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Sanitize with certainty Sanitization can be very costly if not done effectively. • Iotron takes sanitization to a new level, offering Nursery Growers unparalleled results. • Iotron utilizes irradiation technology to eliminate Pathogens, fungi and molds on pots, trays, and styroblocks. • Iotron's sanitization method fully penetrates materials like an X-ray, effectively sterilizing the material.
Field trials have proven that the sanitization level of pots prior to planting can affect plant yields.
Money does grow on trees! Be confident that your pots, trays or styroblocks are the cleanest they can be from the start. A disease free environment creates disease free plants.
Benefits • Re-use old pots, trays & styroblock • Increase plant yields • Reduce maintenance on plants • Environmentally friendly process • No more need for harsh chemicals, steam or hot water
If your sanitization method leaves you uncertain, then it's definitely time to make a change. For For more more information information please please contact contact Iotron Iotron Technologies Technologies Corp. Corp. 1425 1425 Kebet Kebet Way, Way, Port Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, BC BC V3C V3C 6L3 6L3 Ph. Ph. (604)945-8838 (604)945-8838 Fax. Fax. (604)945-8827 (604)945-8827 Website Website www.Iotron.com www.Iotron.com Email: Email: rkhansen@Iotron.com rkhansen@Iotron.com
4/7/08 3:00:58 PM
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Grower Updates
Proposed PST Outrageous System For Customer Service service workshop sponsored Farmers Rejected Abycustomer the Industry Development Council The 2008 BC Provincial Budget did not include changes to the PST system in respect to bona fide farmers, despite efforts of the BC Agriculture Council (BCAC) and its member associations to promote a refund-based system. PST for farmers will continue to be on an exemption-basis and farmers will continue to use two lists: one that includes items that are PST exempt and a second that includes items that are PST taxable. The Ministry acknowledged that the
BCAC proposal had significant merit.
However, the recently announced farmland assessment review could have broad policy and fiscal implications for agriculture including PST. In addition, the proposed system resulted in increased administrative costs and a decrease in revenue (estimated to be $15 million) for the Province.
During BCAC’s industry sessions, members voiced hopes to see an expanded list of items currently used on the farm. As a result, effective February 20, ATVs are PST exempt when they have an engine displacement of 200cc or greater, and are equipped at the time of purchase with a carrying rack, platform or cargo box. Other new exemptions include: • Work related safety equipment and apparel worn or attached to a worker and purchased to meet the requirements of the WCB Act, if used during the course of employment; • Insulation for hot water tanks, hot and cold water pipes and ductwork, • Diesel vehicle emission control devices, • Biodiesel and ethanol used as fuel. The government will continue to review
PST on farm equipment on an ongoing
basis with a focus on streamlining and simplification.
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was held for nursery growers last month. Keynote speaker, Roy Prevost (Oakray Marketing Services) and industry panel Bruce McTavish (McTavish Resource & Management Consultants Ltd.), Peter Levelton (East Richmond Nurseries Inc.), John Zaplatynsky (GardenWorks), Rebecca vanderZalm (Art’s Nursery Ltd.), John Jouan (Good Earth Garden Care) and Bill Hardy (NorthWest Landscape & Stone Supply Ltd.) provided great insight on how BC growers can increase their sales to local retailers and landscapers through better customer service. Roy Prevost stated that customers buy dependability, reliability and relationships in addition to products themselves. They do business with people they trust. If you lack these attributes, you are liable to lose customers. Successful retailers and wholesalers are not in the price game.
and disease free plants in clean pots are crucial. Only the best-looking plants will sell. • Be flexible on minimum orders. More frequent smaller deliveries (rather than forced large deliveries) would be helpful for smaller stores. • Ship unique product in attractive containers; try unusual pots and sizes. • Invite buyers to your nursery to discover new plants, or bring them samples. • Be prepared to take an order with previous years’ booking information readily available. • Send out ‘hot sheets’ of a few items looking nice, right now. • Consider the independent retailer Retailers will not buy when they see the same product in a box store, (even if the packaging is different). • Get with the times Create a website and keep it updated. Make technology work for you and view it as an integral communication tool—not a side-act.
Prevost adds that a grower can succeed with good product and good people. A company adds value by adding service: respecting the customer, going the little bit extra to show them they are important. The panel also offered great advice. Here are a few highlights: • Return messages promptly In this business, product and answers are needed now, not later. • Deliver more than you promise If you don’t have 4' trees, send 5-footers. But don’t send 3’s if the customer wanted 4’s. • Provide weekly availability Include honest comments on quality, size, flowering, etc. • Send order confirmations promptly and accurately. • Quality is essential Consistent, weed
4/7/08 3:01:09 PM
Kosaku “Frank” Nikaido
In Memoriam
11
“Frank” Nikaido passed away peacefully at home at the age of 78 on March 6, 2008. He will be sadly missed by his wife of 40 years, Toyoko. Frank is survived by five sisters, three brothers and is predeceased by his parents and four sisters. Frank lived in Bradner, having moved there in 1949 after the war. His family began growing berry and vegetable crops, later switching to nursery stock and becoming a contract grower for Kato’s Nursery, Hutchinson Nursery, Dinesen Nursery and others. He was also the long-time president of the Bradner Japanese Community Club. A funeral service was held in Aldergrove last month; in lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the BC Cancer Agency, Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation, or a charity of your choice.
Herman Dykman Herman Dykman, former owner of Dykman Nurseries, passed away on March 10, 2008 at the age of 81 after a long battle with cancer. Herman is predeceased by his first wife Shirley Niewenhuis, son Herman, and brothers and sisters in Holland. Herman was born in Holland and immigrated to Canada in 1948. Here, he established Dykman Nurseries in 1970 and became involved in the grower commodity group of the BCLNA (then BCNTA). His retirement years were spent in a Christian senior environment in Surrey. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Marguerite, his children Betty (John), Bill (Grace), Charlie (Johanna), Derrick (Adelaide), Sid (Henrietta), Rob (Donna), Lisa (Eric), 16 grandchildren, one sister in Holland, extended family and numerous friends. A Celebration of Life service was held on March 14, 2008 at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BC Cancer Society or The Langley Hospice Society in Herman’s memory.
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4/7/08 3:01:13 PM
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BCMAL Report
Research Snippets Gas Exchange of Apple and Blackberry Leaves Treated with a Kaolin Particle Film
Industrial Mineral Aggregate Amendment Affects Physical and Chemical Properties of Pine Bark Substrates
(HortScience 42(5):1177-1182) – The study investigated the effect of a kaolin clay-based crop protectant (Surround) on temperature and gas exchange of apple and blackberry leaves. The study was conducted at the Horticulture Research Centre in Bouctouche, New Brunswick. The kaolin particle film (0.5 to 3.7 grams/m2) reduced temperature up to 1.10C and increased gas exchange of apple leaves. It did not affect leaf net photosynthesis nor transpiration. The benefits of the kaolin treatment “would possibly be all the more marked under conditions of physiological stress.” The kaolin treatment had no effect on leaf temperature and gas exchange of blackberry leaves, but the product was not applied to the entire leaf surface.
(HortScience 42(5):1287-1294) – The effects of adding an industrial mineral aggregate (clay) on the physical and chemical properties of a pine bark media, and the resulting impact on water and nutrient efficiency were studied. A regular and a low volatile aggregate were tested. The media were amended with 8% (by volume) of the aggregate and the control was amended with 11% sand. The trial was conducted on newly transplanted 14-L containers of Skogholm cotoneaster. Irrigation volume was adjusted to maintain a leaching fraction of 0.2. The aggregate amendments reduced media bulk density and, increased container waterholding capacity without decreasing air space. Chemical properties of the media were also affected. Relative to the control,
Safety Check Ian Turnbull, Damage Prevention & Emergency Services Manager
Call Before You Dig Spring is here and it’s time to start thinking about those outdoor projects you’ve delayed throughout the winter months—like building a deck, putting up a fence, or working in the garden. Before you start any digging, even just to plant a tree or shrub, make sure you know what’s in the ground. Planning ahead by placing a call to “BC One Call” at 1-800-474-6886 to request gas line information will save you time and money. If you do damage our gas pipe or wrapping, stop all work immediately and call Terasen Gas at 1-800-663-9911.
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Are You On or Near a Right Of Way? A Terasen Gas right of way is a corridor of land that protects the natural gas pipelines running beneath it. These corridors are identified with distinctive marker posts and signs. Most rights of way are on private property. In urban areas, local communities adopt these large areas of mostly grassland as recreational areas, and Terasen encourages this, as long as a few simple precautions are taken. For safety reasons, there are limits on the kind of activities that are permitted near a pipeline. Activities like planting
mineral aggregate media had 250% more potassium, 131% more sulfur, and similar increases in the content of calcium and magnesium. On average, the aggregates increased media pH 0.4 units and cation exchange capacity 69%. The plants grown in aggregate-amended media had 33% greater phosphorus uptake efficiency relative to the control, but nitrogen uptake efficiency and dry weight were unaffected. Amending the media with a mineral aggregate reduced leaching of ammonium and phosphorus by 39% and 34%, respectively. The aggregate treatment also reduced irrigation water use by up to 15%. The affect of the aggregate was related to whether it was a regular or low volatile material, and the particle size. The lowest levels of ammonium and phosphorus leaching and the greatest water use efficiency were achieved by amending the pine bark media with 0.25-0.85 mm low volatile aggregate. ■
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flower beds, vegetable gardens, lawns, and low shrubbery require Terasen Gas pre-approval before digging, drilling, or excavating. Basically, any activity within the right of way that increases the risk of damaging the pipeline, including digging or operating motorized vehicles, requires a permit. In the interest of safety, be cautious and report any suspicious activity that might damage or harm the pipeline. And before any digging begins, always call 1-800-474-6886 (cellular *6886) to request gas line information. For more information about safe practices on a right of way or to download a right of way permit application, visit the Safety section on www.terasengas.com.
4/7/08 3:01:20 PM
New
BCLNA Members
March 17, 2008 Board Meeting
Final Approval The BCLNA welcomes the following new members:
Horta-Craft Limited Brian Lofgren & Shirley Skagen, Strathroy, Out of Province
Environmental Farm Planning
Koning & Sons Landscaping Ltd. John Koning & Jack Koning, Surrey, Active Landscaper
• Protect the Environment - Protect your Business
Murphy’s Topsoil Len & Wendy Murphy, Langley, Associate
• Workshops tailored to specialty horticulture
Overtime Commercial Landscaping Keith Savage, Surrey, Active Landscaper
• Access funding for P. ramorum initiatives
Pond Doctor, Water Garden Specialists Stuart Bronson, Surrey, Active Landscaper Sea Island Landscape and Lawn Stephanie Crawford, Richmond, Active Landscaper
Contact the BCLNA office for workshop details Phone: 604-574-7772 Fax: 604-574-7773 E-mail: info@bclna.com
Toth Landscaping Stefan Toth, Langley, Active Landscaper West Kootenay Plants Eva Johansson & Kjeld Jensen, Winlaw, Active Grower Carla Atherton, Smithers, Individual
For program information go to http://www.bcac.bc.ca/efp_programs.htm
Mary Mitchell, Delta, Active Landscaper (Interim) Emily Balzer, Heriot Bay, Student Lorill Ireland, Nanaimo, Student Diane Johnson, Langley, Student Jenn Keir, Nanaimo, Student Kiersten Stewart, Nanaimo, Student Roger Wood, New Westminster, Student
Tentative Approval The following companies will become BCLNA members at the next board meeting unless a member provides a valid reason for not accepting the application:
Don Burnett Garden Consulting Don Burnett, Kelowna, Associate Haney Builders Supplies Henry Tjart, Maple Ridge, Associate KT Products Ken McLaren, Port Coquitlam, Associate Keltie Chamberlain Landscape Design & Consulting Keltie Chamberlain, Nanaimo, Active Landscaper (Interim) Rootzone Landscaping & Design Mary-Anne Gehman, Chilliwack, Active Landscaper Vibe Landscape Construction Inc. Ruby Chaise, Vancouver, Active Landscaper (Interim) Alvin den Bok, Rosedale, Student Pat Dillon, Surrey, Student
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4/7/08 3:01:21 PM
14
On the Roads
Get to Know Your Tow Jim Thompson, Valley Driving School The Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) includes two licensing categories for trailer towing. The Code 51 endorsement was designed to apply to drivers wanting to tow trailers in excess of 4600 kg (10,120 lbs) without air brakes; Code 20 deals with towing trailers in excess of 4600 kg in a commercial environment. It’s important for business owners to be aware of these codes, and to ensure their drivers have the information they need to know before starting out with a trailer in tow. Without the correct licenses, ICBC may deny claims in the event of a crash, and the company may be held responsible for all costs.
Help Host the World! Suppliers: show your industry pride and capitalize on a unique marketing opportunity by becoming an IGCA sponsor! • Help a host retailer with
merchandising
• Sponsor a special event • Showcase your product in a
Congress Guidebook ad
To learn more about IGCA Congress or its sponsorship potential, visit www.igcaCongress.com or contact Renata Triveri: telephone (604) 523-0235 or email rtriveri@telus.net.
According to the Commercial Vehicle Safety Enforcement branch, there is a lot of confusion on the highways regarding licensing requirements for trailers. CVSE inspectors have the same authority as a police officer when it comes to any type of motor vehicle. They are completely within their jurisdiction to pull over a unit that appears to be over its weight or safety limitations. The fines are very severe. It is of the utmost importance that your vehicles and trailer are appropriate for their intended loads, and that all drivers know their tow. Be certain that any driver operating your company truck and trailer know: 1. How to calculate the true gross vehicle weight of a tow vehicle and trailer. 2. How to calculate the available tongue weight of a tow vehicle and trailer. 3. What license is needed if a trailer exceeds 4600kg. 4. What you need to know if a trailer weighs less than 4600kg. 5. How to get the correct license. 6. Where to obtain necessary information. Now is a great time to make sure all your employees are appropriately trained and
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licensed. Training sessions are organized with the assistance of CVSE inspectors, and are held through various organizations and schools including Valley Driving School (2-hour evening session; see advertisement on page 6). Sign your drivers up today, and be sure your personnel and your equipment are safe.
Who’s Driving Your Company Vehicles? • Ensure your drivers have a valid license. Your insurance is void if not. • Ask for a driver’s abstract before hiring and recheck it at regular intervals (semi-annually or annually); drivers’ records may change over the course of the year. • Make careful decisions about who is insured as the principle operator. If the employer is not the principle driver, the employee’s insurance discount rate may apply. • Be aware of the tax implications for both parties when offering a vehicle allowance. Lack of diligence could mean you end up paying for mistakes of an employee after they are long gone.
Tax Implications of Company Vehicles If your employees routinely take a company vehicle home, either as a perk or out of convenience, you should be aware of the tax implications that your company or your staff member may be subject to. Canada Revenue Agency has very specific rules and regulations regarding how a company vehicle can and cannot be used. To avoid any tax implications, the vehicles cannot be used for personal use at all, including being driven home each night.
4/7/08 3:01:24 PM
15
However, a company vehicle can be used for personal use as long as the personal mileage is recorded and the employee is charged a taxable benefit for the personal use. If it is found that your company has not been charging an applicable taxable benefit to the employee, the company (not the employee) is responsible for repayment.
Did You Know? New changes to authorized coloured fuel use mean that all licensed farm vehicles (farm plates A and G) may use coloured fuel when traveling for farm purposes on a highway. This ensures that all farms qualify for the benefit regardless of business structure. The Family Farm Truck Emblem program has been eliminated. ■
Finning Canada has sponsored periodic Commercial Vehicle Safety seminars at the recent Landscape Expo at BC Place, and through the BCLNA. Says Ray Gerein, “We think Commercial Vehicle Safety Seminars are one of the most important educational opportunities for safety and economic value. We care about setting a high standard in the industry, and we want everyone to make it home safely everyday.”
Sumas Gro–Media Ltd.
• Raw materials purchased in advance helps to ensure product consistency and availability.
The Next Generation in Soil Mixing Our Mixes are Double Screened
• Multiple computers control the dosing equipment, increasing accuracy and speed. This makes it easier to offer competitively priced products.
Sumas Gro–Media specializes in the production of specialty crop mixes for the nursery, bedding plants, perennial and blueberry crops. We also have seedling and propagation soils.
• Non-invasive mixing equipment protects the structure and consistency of the media. Premium raw ingredients produce a consistent end product every time.
• Fast, reliable delivery.
42481 Industrial Way, Chilliwack, B.C.
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604.823-6688
4/7/08 3:01:25 PM
Hole
The
Deeper
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Loads better. The full range of new John Deere skid steers come fully equipped with high-torque diesel engines, patented
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4/7/08 3:01:29 PM