Relies on JCB Equipment for Lennar’s Green Valley Ranch in Perris
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INTRODUCING CALSCAPER:
A NEW MEDIA RESOURCE FOR CALIFORNIA’S LANDSCAPE AND HARDSCAPE CONTRACTORS
California’s landscaping industry, a significant contributor to the state’s economy, now has a dedicated voice with the launch of CalScaper, a bi-monthly publication tailored specifically for C-27 licensed contractors. This initiative aims to provide valuable insights, industry trends, and resources to professionals engaged in landscaping and hardscaping across the Golden State.
The Role of C-27 Contractors in California
The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) classifies a C-27 Landscaping Contractor as one who “constructs, maintains, repairs, installs, or subcontracts the development of landscape systems and facilities” designed to enhance the aesthetic, architectural, horticultural, or functional aspects of a given area.
There are currently around 12,500 active C-27 contractor licenses in California. This substantial number underscores the vital role these professionals play in shaping California’s residential and commercial landscapes, but does not include the tens of thousands of unlicensed
landscaping firms currently working throughout California.
The State of California’s Landscaping Industry
The landscaping services industry in California is a robust sector, with a market size of $19.2 billion as of 2025. The state boasts approximately 55,111 landscaping service businesses, employing around 184,890 individuals. This positions California as a leader in the national landscaping market, reflecting the high demand for landscaping services driven by the state’s diverse climates and expansive urban and suburban developments.
Addressing Industry Challenges and Trends
Despite its growth, the industry faces challenges, including labor shortages, rising fuel costs, and supply chain disruptions. Additionally, there’s a growing emphasis on sustainable practices, such as the use of native plants and drought-resistant varieties, to address environmental concerns and water conservation efforts. CalScaper aims to address these and many more topics by providing C-27 contractors with
DON’T MISS UPCOMING ISSUES OF CALSCAPER MAGAZINE!
timely information on best practices, regulatory updates, and innovative solutions to navigate the evolving landscape industry successfully. CalScaper is also proud to bring the amazing stories of these contractors to you every other month in both English and Spanish.
A Commitment to Professional Growth
By focusing on the unique needs and interests of California’s C-27 contractors, CalScaper seeks to foster a community of professionals dedicated to excellence in landscaping and hardscaping. The publication will feature expert interviews, project showcases, and technical articles designed to support the continuous professional development of its readers.
As the industry continues to evolve, CalScaper aspires to be an indispensable resource, empowering C-27 contractors to thrive in California’s dynamic landscaping market. For more information, please contact Kerry Hoover at khoover@calcontractor.com, (909) 772-3121 or visit our website at www.calscaper.com CS
Contact CalScaper Magazine to see how you can be part of an upcoming issue.
(909) 772-3121 (phone) khoover@calcontractor.com
Brian Hoover, Senior Editor
K&D LANDSCAPING, INC. 12 Family-Owned, Future-Focused: Justin White Drives K&D Landscaping’s Vision and Growth
06 Relies on JCB Equipment for Lennar’s Green Valley Ranch in Perris PUBLISHER: Kerry Hoover khoover@calcontractor.com
Named The Official Kubota Dealer for Los Angeles County Elevating Its Presence In the Southern California Landscaping, Hardscaping and Construction Industry
EDITOR: Brian Hoover, Senior Editor
Relies on JCB Equipment for Lennar’s Green
Valley Ranch in Perris
Dan Stauffer was raised in and around the landscape construction business. His parents owned and operated Stauffer’s Landscape, a large, well-known landscape construction enterprise in Redlands. Stauffer worked for his parents as a laborer right out of high school and moved on to become an irrigation technician, and then into estimating, sales, and eventually managing and running the family business. Stauffer’s Landscape eventually grew to more than 400 employees, but after years of success, dropped to 150 employees almost overnight during the Great Recession of 2008. The company eventually
shuttered in 2012, leaving Stauffer at a crossroads.
“I activated my C27 contractor’s license and started out on my own in November 2012. I was able to secure several contracts from the previous business and began growing American Landscape & Maintenance, Inc. from that point forward,” says Stauffer. “Much of our work is for homebuilders like Lennar Homes, Tri Pointe Homes, KB Home, and D.R. Horton. As my new company continued to expand, I knew I would need help to take it to the next level. I decided to bring John Keefer in as a partner in 2017. John had an impressive background in retail, where he headed up
ALM crews put their JCB 18Z-1 mini excavator to work digging drain lines and prepping for plant installation at Green Valley Ranch, a new Lennar housing development in Perris.
training and development for some well-known corporations. He was also part of the ownership program and chairman of the committee for Mattress Firm. I felt his attention to deadlines and detail would help our company grow sustainably.”
With Stauffer serving as the CEO and Keefer as the COO, American Landscape & Maintenance, Inc. (ALM) continued to work within the homebuilding industry, while also deciding to expand into the commercial side in the early 2000s. “We started taking on projects for big-box stores like Home Depot, retail and food stores such as Starbucks, and well-known gas station chains. Along with the homebuilding and commercial landscaping division, we also have two maintenance divisions that include standard/routine and city maintenance offerings,” says
Keefer. “We focus specifically on landscaping and subcontract out the hardscape work from a short list of very capable firms. Although our work is primarily in Ventura, Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, San Bernardino, and Imperial counties, we have completed projects as far north as the Central Valley. I am very proud of our growth so far, going from 65 to 70 employees in 2017 to a peak of 200 in 2021, to today, where we maintain around 120 employees.”
ALM has built a reputation for always delivering a quality finished product on or before the scheduled deadline. “We are working within a tight niche homebuilding industry that is very difficult to break into. Deadlines are such that if you cannot figure out how to landscape an entire home in one day, you will more than likely be kicked off that
job. We are part of a select group of landscaping companies that have the right people, skills, and knowledge to work for the nation’s largest homebuilders. We have also been diligent to remain diversified, as homebuilding has its peaks and valleys that are affected by interest rates and fluctuating house prices,” continues Keefer. “We believe in keeping it simple and not overcomplicating the process. Still, challenges remain, including hiring and developing skilled labor. We are being proactive through the development of our new training programs for unskilled hires. This includes a biannual training rodeo that we present, complete with vendor booths, new product announcements, and refresher courses on things like safety, irrigation, and other new construction methods.”
American Landscape Maintenance (ALM) team members utilize a JCB 35Z-1 mini excavator and a JCB 505-20 telehandler to remove and export material from the job site. The telehandler’s extended reach is ideal for transporting bulk mulch and delivering plants across the site. Crews also rely on the compact JCB 18Z-1 to dig drain lines and load the JCB 215 skid steer, which is used for exporting dirt efficiently.
ALM has completed several high-profile projects over the past 12 years, including Rosena Ranch for Lennar Homes. This model home complex features three communities with floorplans ranging in size from 1,555 to 2,690 square feet. “We landscaped a few thousand homes for Lennar Homes in Devore (San Bernardino) on the Rosena Ranch project and have done the same for many other homebuilders and developers,” explains Stauffer. “On the commercial side, we recently completed landscaping for the Bedford Marketplace, a new 125,000-plus-square-foot community shopping center in Corona. We are very proud of this project because it serves as an example of what can happen when you pay attention to every detail and present a quality finished product on time. In this case, we were awarded the ongoing maintenance contract by the investment group who recognized and rewarded our crew members’ skill and work ethic.”
According to Keefer, the 24-month outlook and forecast looks good for ALM. “We have a long list of projects working or on the books right now, including rehabbing Fremont Park in Glendale. We have finished relocating eight giant palm trees onsite and are now in the process of trenching for the mainline with our JCB mini excavators,” says Keefer. “We are also landscaping a housing project park in Pleasant Valley (Hemet) for D.R. Horton. We are in the final planting stages. Other current projects include work in Fontana for Acacia Homes, 200 homes at Gabion Ranch for Lennar, and landscaping for Wildwood Calvary Chapel, which is building a new school in Yucaipa. We are on several other commercial projects and landscaping more than 1,000 new homes at this time.”
Getting an entire home landscaped in one day or meeting a tight commercial deadline for a big-box store requires the use of equipment and technology. “Our original family business typically relied on trenchers and skip loaders out on the jobsite. However, over the past five or six years, ALM has transitioned away from trenchers in favor of mini excavators,” explains Stauffer. “The mini excavator places less fatigue on the operator without the bouncing around and chain and boom damage and replacement that comes with trenchers. Our JCB mini excavators are just much smoother and more productive, but there are still some applications where we will use trenchers. We have moved to JCB skid steer loaders over skip loaders simply
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because they fit into tighter places and can do everything a skip can do and much more.”
Keefer points out that ALM started out using another brand of equipment but noticed that the cost of repairs was getting out of hand. “We started the process of looking at other brands and asked certain distributors to bring out machines for demo and decisionmaking purposes. SoCal JCB brought out a mini excavator and skid steer, as did another wellknown local heavy equipment distributor. We were on a very rocky jobsite with tough conditions. We originally thought that our operators would choose the other brand, but the decision was unanimous to go with JCB. Feedback included a better breakout force and more simplistic and easier operation,” says Keefer. “The icing on the cake was that we even saved money by going with JCB over the other brands. We considered JCB in the first
The JCB 215 skid steer proves its versatility on landscape projects, handling tasks from moving dirt to transporting plants and more—thanks to its wide range of attachments. Green Valley Ranch homes are shown at various stages of landscape completion, with JCB equipment playing a vital role in the project’s progress and success.
place because we owned a JCB telehandler for many years that served us well. We were just so impressed with the longevity, service, and support from the JCB telehandler and SoCal JCB, we decided to take a look at their mini excavators, skid steers, and track loaders.”
Stauffer says that owning and operating construction machinery is more than just the machine itself.
“The service you receive from your chosen equipment distributor is equally or even more important than the actual piece of equipment. Ignacio Verduzco is our representative from SoCal JCB, and he and his service team come out regularly to ensure that everything is working properly and that all preventative maintenance practices are being addressed. SoCal JCB even works with our mechanics to help them learn more about the ins and outs of working on the JCB machines,” says Stauffer. “We currently own two JCB telehandlers, three JCB track
loaders, eight JCB mini excavators, and four JCB mini skid steers. We also own and operate Vermeer and Ditch Witch walk-behind trenchers, along with other implements and attachments. Most of our JCB equipment is new and we are still assessing, but so far, we are thrilled with the performance and have noticed a drastic decrease in our fleet costs. Our operators comment daily on how much stronger our JCB machines are compared to other brands and how they stand up to the daily grind. More power, more durability, an industry-leading warranty, and a better price point. What’s not to love?”
Stauffer and Keefer agree that growth is in their future, with plans to expand and diversify more into commercial work and to expand their maintenance divisions. For more information on American Landscape & Maintenance, Inc., please visit www.almcontractor.com or call their Redlands headquarters at (909) 307-1674 CS
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Family-Owned, Future-Focused:
Justin White Drives K&D Landscaping’s Vision
and Growth
In 1986, Kendel White was a young chef working early mornings at a resort in Monterey, California. Looking to earn extra money for his growing family, Kendel began mowing lawns after his shifts. Quickly, one lawn led to four, then eight, setting the stage for a business that would become a Monterey Bay area institution: K&D Landscaping, Inc.
Today, under the leadership of CEO Justin White—Kendel and Dawn White’s son—K&D Landscaping has grown from its
humble beginnings into a thriving enterprise employing approximately 140 people and generating $20 million annually, with ambitious plans to reach $30 million by 2030.
“My father decided at age 23 to leave his chef career and dive fully into landscaping,” Justin said. “My mother joined him full-time soon after, managing the administrative side, while he focused on fieldwork.” Through the 1990s, the company steadily grew, expanding significantly into commercial projects.
Justin, who started full-time at 16 and took over as CEO in 2015 at just 25 years old, credits youthful optimism and energy for helping him navigate early business challenges. “Being ignorant about how tough business really is turned out to be my biggest advantage,” he explained. “I had a vision, and that drove me and our team forward.”
Justin’s tenure marked rapid growth, with revenues increasing from around $2 million to $5 million by 2018, doubling again to $10
million by 2020, and now $20 million in 2025. K&D Landscaping’s business is evenly split between landscape construction and maintenance, serving both commercial (60%) and residential (40%) clients in Monterey and the South Bay.
Versatility and Client-Focused Innovation
K&D Landscaping’s success comes from its diverse service offerings. Approximately 30% of their work involves high-end residential design-build projects, including complete backyard experiences with pools, hardscaping, and outdoor kitchens. Another 30% comprises heavy commercial installations for large facilities like hotels, hospitals, and distribution centers, with the remaining 40% dedicated to commercial site maintenance and water management.
“Budget and timeline are critical on every project,” Justin emphasized. “Understanding client expectations allows us to align their vision with achievable results. Our projects can range from the traditional Italian villa theme to
Left: K&D operator, Jose aka Choco, operates a Kubota excavator to reestablish grade in a backyard project.
Below: K&D operator Rogelio, uses one of their secret weapons, the Ditch Witch 1050, to re-grade and prepare for new installation.
sleek modern landscapes, reflecting the diverse architectural tastes around Monterey Bay.”
Local and Sustainable Practices
Plant selection typically favors low-maintenance and waterefficient options, though K&D accommodates client preferences, always managing expectations around sustainability. About 20% of K&D’s work comes from bids, while 80% results from direct client invitations, largely due to their robust reputation supported by testimonials and community recognition. The company proudly holds two consecutive “Business of the Year” awards from local Chambers of Commerce and was the first landscaping firm ever
named “Best Overall Contractor” by a well-known regional newspaper. “We believe deeply in treating our employees with respect and rewarding their hard work,” Justin said. “Their positive energy translates directly into exceptional client service.”
In equipment usage, K&D Landscaping prioritizes efficiency and worker safety. The company transitioned fully to batterypowered equipment for maintenance crews in January, partnering with Kress Commercial Equipment. The switch, intended as a strategic eco-friendly move, also yielded unexpected financial benefits through lower operational costs and minimal downtime. K&D also owns a fleet of construction
Above: January 1, 2025, K&D committed to go all electric. Here’s a picture of the K&D team and the Kress Team in front of some of that power equipment.
machines consisting of Kubota and Bobcat skid steer loaders, Kubota mini excavators, Ditch Witch stand-on skid steers and walk-behind trenchers, along with trucks, trailers and other tools and implements.
Notable Projects and Expansions
A recent showcase project was the Rich residence in Los Gatos, a nearly $1 million renovation involving significant elevation challenges. Initially planned as a straightforward landscape renovation, the project quickly evolved once ground was broken and revealed the need for additional poured-in-place concrete retaining walls. Despite these complexities, the client enthusiastically supported enhancements necessary to achieve optimal results. Project manager Josh Ross closely guided the clients through detailed engineering
explanations, fostering a strong collaborative atmosphere.
The project encompassed extensive concrete flatwork and retaining walls, a full outdoor kitchen, significant artificial turf installations, comprehensive irrigation systems, and meticulous landscaping throughout the site. Liz Ryan, the project’s designer, skillfully managed complex elevation changes by terracing plantings to create a seamless visual flow. Partners included Swan Pools (pool installations), Extreme Framing (pergola construction), and Techoblock, which provided wall block materials and technical consultation.
Another major undertaking was the landscaping of a new Amazon distribution facility in Hollister, California—a $2 million project completed under intense
deadline pressure. Despite having roughly half the standard timeframe for a project of its scale, K&D delivered the installation of
Right: K&D team members Marco, Hugo, and Gerardo operate electric equipment to provide fire reduction services.
Right: K&D displays their wide range of talents from high-end residential design-build to water management and beachfront commercial maintenance.
{ Continued from page 14 }
extensive planting, irrigation, and mulch flawlessly, without any punch-list items. “Our crew did an outstanding job,” Justin noted. “The client remarked that our quality exceeded typical warehouse landscaping standards.”
Forward-Thinking Leadership: The Disruptors
Beyond K&D Landscaping, Justin founded “The Disruptors,” an online peer group focused on innovation and growth within landscaping and related industries. Offering strategic partnerships, coaching, live events, and substantial savings on industry tools, The Disruptors organization and website aims to help individuals create scalable, efficient, and culturally rich businesses nationwide.
“My family has always been at the heart of our business,”
Justin reflected. His sister Kelsie Colborn, cousin Jessica Wendt, and father Kendel remain an integral part of the impressive growth of K&D over the past decade and all have shares in the business. His brother Shane recently ventured out to start his own business, but K&D remains family-owned and deeply connected.
Looking ahead, Justin envisions national expansion while maintaining private ownership, emphasizing quality, consistency, and strong a company culture. “We’re always looking for people who share our mission,” Justin concluded. “Whether through acquisitions, partnerships, or networking, we’re committed to growing responsibly and sustainably.”
For more information, visit kndlandscaping.com or call the Watsonville headquarters at (831) 728-4018. CS
Above: K&D team members Pablo and Rogelio install a multi-tier retaining wall on a tricky residential backyard project.
PDQ EQUIPMENT, LLC
Named The Official Kubota Dealer for Los Angeles County Elevating Its Presence
In the Southern California Landscaping, Hardscaping and Construction Industry
Southern California landscapers and hardscapers have a powerful new partner: PDQ Equipment, LLC, recently named the official Kubota dealer for Los Angeles County—Kubota of Los Angeles. With nearly 75 years of equipment experience, PDQ has evolved from a pioneering rental company into a regional sales powerhouse.
Family-Led Innovation Fuels Growth
The Turner family has guided PDQ Equipment through three generations, consistently adapting to industry demands. Founded by Bud Turner in 1952 as Bud’s Rentals, the company initially served homeowners,
agriculture, and local businesses from its original Norwalk location. Bud’s entrepreneurial spirit set the foundation, as he manufactured his own trailers and lawn equipment to meet local needs.
Bud’s son, Dennis Turner, later expanded PDQ’s market reach significantly, building strong relationships with landscapers, contractors, and other industry professionals. Today, Todd Turner, representing the third generation of leadership, continues this tradition. Under Todd’s guidance since becoming president in 2021, PDQ has embraced digital innovations
and significantly increased its offerings for contractors, ranchers, and homeowners.
Strategic Expansion in Southern California
PDQ Equipment recently expanded its presence by acquiring Pauley Equipment in 2023, enhancing their ability to serve landscapers and hardscapers throughout Southern California. Now operating as Kubota of San Diego, Kubota of Temecula, and proudly announcing Kubota of Los Angeles, PDQ’s locations in Santa Fe Springs, Sun Valley, Corona, Temecula, Escondido,
By Brian Hoover, Editor / Photos by PDQ Equipment
Left: Three generations, one mission: Building a legacy of excellence. Dennis and Todd Turner continue to drive PDQ Equipment forward as the newest Kubota dealer for Los Angeles county.
Right: PDQ started as a small rental shop serving farmers and homeowners—now, they’re shaping the future of equipment sales and rentals across Southern California.
and Vista offer comprehensive equipment solutions, including compact tractors, skid steers, and excavators ideally suited for landscaping, hardscaping and other construction applications. “We were looking to expand into San Diego County, but many of the independent rental companies had already been acquired,” said Todd. “When the Pauley brothers expressed interest in discussions, we saw an opportunity to grow our rental and sales divisions while maintaining the strong customer relationships Pauley Equipment had already built.”
The Kubota line, in particular, has proven popular among Southern California landscapers for its reliability, versatility, and performance in tasks such as grading, trenching, planting, and material handling. Todd Turner emphasizes that PDQ is committed to providing
contractors with high-quality, durable equipment that maximizes productivity and efficiency. “This is big for us, and we are all very excited about becoming the official, full-line Kubota distributor for Los Angeles County,” says Todd Turner. “This new territory addition for Kubota allows us to continue to bring our special brand of service and support to Los Angeles County for the Kubota equipment line.”
In addition to Kubota, PDQ is a Takeuchi dealer in Los Angeles and Orange counties, serving wineries, landscapers, general contractors, ranchers and other industries. Todd Turner explains that since acquiring Pauley Equipment, the company’s sales volume has nearly tripled, as it continues to place a strong emphasis on serving the contractor market. The expansion has also
PDQ
This isn’t just a milestone—it’s a game-changer. Their goal is to bring the best equipment and service to businesses and homeowners alike.
allowed PDQ to introduce more specialized equipment, improve service offerings, and build stronger relationships with landscapers, hardscapers, contractors, ranchers, homeowners, manufacturers and other suppliers. “We have worked diligently to rebrand our company so that we are known for sales as much as for rentals,” says Todd Turner. “We are now in the midst of bringing all sides of the business together under the name PDQ Equipment, LLC.”
Tailored Solutions for Landscaping Professionals
PDQ Equipment offers a robust selection of equipment specifically designed to handle rigorous outdoor conditions and demanding job sites. Brands like Kubota and Takeuchi deliver reliability and ease of operation, supporting projects ranging from
Above:
became the official Kubota dealer for Los Angeles county.
residential landscaping to largescale commercial construction projects.
“Our focus is on helping contractors and others excel by providing top-tier machinery backed by unmatched customer support,” says Todd Turner. “Our extensive rental and sales offerings ensure we have the right solution, whether it’s compact excavators for detailed landscape design or robust skid steer loaders for heavy material management.”
Family Culture Drives Exceptional Service
PDQ’s family-oriented culture translates into exceptional customer service, fostering long-term relationships within the landscaping, hardscaping and construction community.
PDQ Equipment’s goal isn’t just to sell equipment— it’s to provide solutions that keep contractors, landscapers, and businesses moving forward. With their Kubota ad Takeuchi lines, their plan is to deliver the best in power, durability, and performance.
Large inventory of Kubota and Takeuchi machines in stock and ready for delivery to your yard or jobsite.
Many employees have served the company for decades, providing a depth of expertise and stability customer’s trust.
Your business will benefit from PDQ’s commitment to aroundthe-clock availability, including 24-hour service at Santa Fe Springs and Corona locations. PDQ also continues to invest in digital technology and services, offering seamless online rental and equipment purchases.
Focused on the Future
As Todd Turner continues to lead the company, PDQ Equipment remains dedicated to further innovation and growth within the landscaping and hardscaping sectors. With a rental fleet valued at over $150 million and more than 300
machines available, PDQ is positioned as a reliable, comprehensive equipment partner from Santa Barbara to San Diego, reaching as far east as Indio.
“We’re not just providing equipment—we’re enabling contractors, ranchers and other individuals to achieve their project goals more efficiently and effectively,” Turner concludes.
“Our dedication to innovation, service, and partnership with the landscaping and hardscaping industry ensures our customers’ success is our success.”
For more information on PDQ Equipment’s equipment solutions, including both sales and rentals, visit PDQ Equipment today at www.pdqequipment.com or call (800) 300-9997. CS
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California Landscapers Face New Challenges and Opportunities in 2025 INDUSTRY NEWS
California’s landscaping industry is navigating a rapidly evolving landscape in 2025. Key issues like regulatory changes, labor shortages, rising costs, and environmental pressures are significantly shaping the industry, creating both challenges and opportunities.
Transitioning to Electric Equipment
One of the most impactful changes landscapers face is the 2024 ban on the sale of new gaspowered lawn care equipment. This state-wide mandate requires contractors to adopt electric or battery-operated alternatives, demanding significant upfront investments. While this shift poses financial hurdles, it also offers long-term savings on fuel and maintenance, along with marketing opportunities to environmentally conscious clients.
Water Efficiency and Sustainable Landscaping
With California’s Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) in full effect, contractors are under increased scrutiny to implement water-saving practices. This means prioritizing droughttolerant plants, installing smart irrigation systems, and adopting compost-based soil amendments under Senate Bill 1383, which mandates compost usage. These regulations challenge traditional landscaping practices but also present an opportunity to innovate and lead in sustainability.
Labor Shortages Drive Costs Up
The persistent shortage of skilled labor remains a top concern, affecting project timelines and inflating labor costs. Contractors must navigate wage increases and enhanced benefits to attract and retain workers. Forward-thinking
companies are investing in training programs, apprenticeships, and technology to improve productivity and reduce reliance on manual labor.
Navigating Economic Pressures
Landscape contractors are also grappling with the volatility of material costs and economic uncertainty, including high interest rates which have dampened private development projects. Strategic purchasing, diversified supply chains, and efficient project management are becoming essential tools to manage these financial pressures.
Increased Focus on FireResistant Landscaping
The devastating wildfires that struck California, notably in early 2025, have increased demand for fire-resistant landscaping. This situation underscores the critical role landscape contractors play in community resilience, opening avenues for specialized services in fire prevention and recovery.
Looking Ahead
California’s landscaping professionals who proactively adapt to these evolving challenges will not only remain compliant but position themselves as leaders in an industry defined by resilience, innovation, and sustainability. CalScaper will cover all of these issues in detail in upcoming editions. Email Kerry Hoover at khoover@calcontractor.com if you would like to be interviewed or provide content concerning the above industry challenges. CS
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