CNLA Newsbrief
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July-August 2009
CNLA July-August 2009
Green Industry News!
Vol. 18 Issue 6
Growing trends in your retail garden centre business
There is still room for optimism in the retail garden centre industry, although consumers are tightening their belts on spending and the news speaks of cutbacks and financial troubles. Recognizing your customers’ concerns, wants and interests in trends will give your garden centre the opportunity to reach for success. “Certainly every garden centre across Canada is different and has different issues, customers and competition to contend with,” says Adrian Van Dongen of Van Dongen Nurseries in Ontario. Retailers need to understand that their customers are looking to create their own backyard escapes while they forego expensive vacations. It is important for the retailer to help create an atmosphere that encourages the customer to want the same “look” at home, then help that customer achieve their dream backyard by offering all of those elements at the garden centre. Brian Minter, president of Minter Gardens in Vancouver says, “Our marketing needs to be more effective and targeted, our team needs to be well-trained and professional and our stores need to look fabulous in order to provide a great experience.” Don’t forget to include creative ideas for children’s play areas in those landscaped yards, and suggest plants that will attract nature and stimulate an interest in gardening at a young age. Customers are willing to invest in their homes during difficult finan-
Look Inside: • • •
Safety on the job Arbor Day in Newfoundland & Labrador New Brunswick joins ban on pesticides
• • •
cial times and raise their property value by an estimated 5-10%; garden centre retailers just need to help encourage that investment by offering new and unique products. Bob Tuckey from The Natural Gardener in Vancouver, B.C., described the rollercoaster ride his business has been on. “I had the worst winter and early spring ever. Sales were down over 25%. It was a difficult time as you can imagine, says Tuckey. “Then at the beginning of the 2nd week in April everything changed. Yes, it happened that fast. One day the sales were still lousy and the next they were excellent. Sales steadily increased in April so that for the month sales were up 10% over 2008. Then May exploded,” explained Tuckey. “I have never been so busy. It was wonderful. For the month of May my sales were up 50% over last year. June settled back down and sales were only up 8% over 2008. July has been about the same as last year.” Ontario garden centres haven’t experienced the same explosion in sales as B.C. “Our garden centre runs along with our nursery operations, residential landscape, bulk goods department, and large tree planting division,” says Adrian Van Dongen. “We would love to see a 20 per cent increase in sales as some B.C. retailers have experienced, since we have had two exceptional growing years with great weather, and some rain just when it was needed. Our farms are full of great stock
National Plastic Recycling Program Water ban in Newfoundland EAB movement restrictions
• • •
Help in preparing for CHT testing Success at Skills Canada Beautiful Blooms at World Rose Festival
Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes
7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | Toll Free: 1-888-446-3499 | Toll Free Fax: 1-866-833-8603 | Email: info@canadanursery.com | www.canadanursery.com
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CNLA Newsbrief
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Industry News
Executive Board: Cary van Zanten - BC
continued from page 1
Michael Murray - NL
and we still have a strong demand for our products and services,” says Van Dongen. “Our tough competition has forced us to study our business. Work a bit smarter. Change where change was needed. Last year our profits were very good. Our books indicate that even though our sales are up only a bit, our profit is up a lot.”
President
Past President
Bill Stensson - ON First Vice President
Christine LeVatte, CLP - NS Second Vice President
Rene Thiebaud, CLP - ON Treasurer, Insurance Chair
Directors:
Harold Deenen, CLP - ON Human Resources Chair
Phil Paxton, CHT, CLP - AB LANTA Representative
Terry Nicholson, CHT - ON National Certification Chair
Hands-on seminars and
Bill Hardy, CLP - BC Interim Environment Chair
Bruce Hunter, CHT, CLD, CLP - BC Landscape Canada Chair
Vic Krahn, CHT - SK
Government Liaison Chair, SNLA Representative, COHA Chair
Gerald Boot, CLP - ON LOHTA Representative
Doug Conrad, CHT, CLD, CLP - NS LNSHTA Representative
Paul Jensen - QC AQPP Representative
Bruce McTavish - BC NAPPO Chair
Anthony O’Neill - NL
Garden Centres Canada Chair, LNL Representative
Owen Vanstone - MB
LM Representative, Growers Canada Chair
Darrell Nameth, CLP - NB
Member Services Chair, LNBHTA Representative
Michael Kato - BC BCLNA Representative
Staff: Victor Santacruz, CAE, CLP Lydia Couture-Comtois Executive Director victor@canadanursery.com
Executive Assistant lydia@canadanursery.com
Joseph Salemi, CAE
Julia Ricottone
Joel Beatson, CAE, CLP
Peter Isaacson, B.Sc., MPM
Member Services Manager joseph@canadanursery.com Professional & Business Development Manager joel@canadanursery.com
Rebecca Wetselaar
Certification Services julia@canadanursery.com Minor Use/IPM Co-ordinator peter@canadanursery.com
Agnes Zawartka
Member Services Co-ordinator Manager of Provincial Relations agnes@canadanursery.com rebecca@canadanursery.com
Kim Burton
Rita Weerdenburg
Growers Manager rita@canadanursery.com
Communications Co-ordinator kim@canadanursery.com
Liz Klose, B.Sc., (Agr), CLP Landscape Priorities Manager liz@canadanursery.com
Printed on recycled paper using vegetable based inks by: Harmony Printing, 50 Woodbine Downs Boulevard, Toronto, ON M9W 5R2
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July-August 2009
Bob McClaren of presentations are great ideas. Kingsbrae Garden in New Brunswick says that his retail centre has also suffered this season. “I can not speak for all of New Brunswick, but for our garden center, sales are down by 22%. Keep in mind that in our case we have a few contributing factors that have affected our sales; budget cuts that lead to smaller inventory, bad weather and a failing economy.” Customers are demanding better quality and best value when they make any purchases, so that when they do spend, they get the best value for their dollar. “We must become very focused on the needs and expectations of our customers,” says Brian Minter of Minter Gardens. Consider pricing plant material and better quality tools at a reasonable markup so the customer feels the amount is fair. Gardeners are looking for products to help them create a “kitchen garden”, where they can grow their own, chemical-free produce, and in turn, save on grocery bills. Create an herb garden at your garden centre and encourage those customers who might only be able to have a container garden or window boxes on their balcony, that they too, can fulfill their green thumb ambitions. Customers are interested in purchasing locally grown and native plants, so if your plants aren’t from your own nurseries, consider purchasing your product from a nearby grower. Consumers are also looking to recapture the hardy favourites once found in their grandmother’s garden. Ensure your garden centre offers peonies, lilacs, iris and roses in traditional and new colours and varieties. Have your garden centre staff well versed in water knowledge, to offer customers suggestions on drought-resistant plants, the most effective time to water, or the best sprinkler/irriga-
tion systems to purchase. People are focused on organic gardening and are hungry for knowledge on increasing watering efficiency, saving money, and creating a more environmentally sustainable garden. At the same time, the garden centre can present an environment that promotes more sustainable products such as coir or coco fibre matting instead of peat moss, and LED lighting options for gardens, offering both beauty to the night garden and added security. Most importantly, all garden centres should be offering their clientele reusable or biodegradable bags. It certainly doesn’t reflect well on any retailer to have their plastic bags end up as garbage or as an eyesore stuck in a tree. Promote your environmental consciousness to your customers through your staff and advertising; your customers will think better of you. Strive to offer a unique and exceptional experience for your customers when they visit your garden centre and you will gain a patron for life.
Michael Kato Michael Kato, owner and operator of Kato’s Nursery in Aldergrove, B.C., has been appointed as the BCLNA Provincial Representative on the CNLA Board of Directors. Michael is the third generation to run the family operation since its establishment over 50 years ago. Kato’s Nursery grows about 500,000 plants, and roots about 400,000 cuttings. Kato’s also grows larger caliper trees on an off-site 60-acre farm in Chilliwack, B.C. The focus of the home farm has been switched to containerized ‘mini-van’ trees. “Consumers come to the garden centre in a car or mini-van and want a tree they can take home with them,” Kato explains. “When the economy is down, people tend not to take big vacations. Instead they do more nesting and that often means buying a few plants.” In 2004, Michael won the ‘BCLNA Young Member of the Year’ Award, is a director on the BCLNA board and as well, holds the chair for both membership services and special events. Michael truly enjoys working with the great people of the horticulture industry.
Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes
7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | Toll Free: 1-888-446-3499 | Toll Free Fax: 1-866-833-8603 | Email: info@canadanursery.com | www.canadanursery.com
CNLA Newsbrief
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July-August 2009
Industry News Safety on the Job Site Chances are you know someone or know of someone that has been hurt on a job site. There are many risks on a work site including exposure to machinery, heavy lifting, hazardous materials, noise, electrocution and weather related dangers. Accidents can happen, but with proper safety training, employees will be better prepared to avoid actions that might cause an accident. Recently, there have been reports from the U.S. of landscape technicians being hit by lightning strikes. They were trying to get the last bit of work completed, despite the pending weather, when the lightning strike occured. Often, it seems that safety standards are not adhered to when time is pressing the completion of a job. There are reported incidents of employees dealing with jammed wood chippers. Instead of taking the time to turn off the machine and properly clear the path, the employee decides to use a stick, their hands or even their feet to try to clear the debris; not a good plan. Arborists are exposed to high risk when trimming anywhere near electrical wires in residential areas. Wires are often not seen or are missed and the ladder, crane or chainsaw comes into direct contact with the electrical source. The number of people employed in the landscape horticulture and related industries in Canada alone is over 130,000 people. With that number growing, the Ministry of Labour has added 200 safety inspectors to its ranks to investigate workplace accidents. The Professional Landcare Network (PLANET), serving professionals in the U.S. landscape industry, has concluded that the smaller, seasonal employers have frequent employee turnover, which presents a challenge for the quality of work and safety in the workplace. PLANET provides training materials and videos free of charge to member companies that might need assistance with their safety training program. LandscapeSafety.com, a recently endorsed supplier by CNLA, recognizes that an injury could ruin a business if negligence was uncovered. LandscapeSafety.com offers an online training program, broken down into 12 modules; WHMIS, blowers, trimmers, edger, hedge trimmer, small walk-behind mover, zeroturn mower, large walk-behind mower, truck and trailer safety, engines and
fuel basics, portable stone saw and plate compactor. Already this year there are plans to add more modules to the training program including winter walkways, chainsaw basics, landscape tractor, reel mower and skid steer basics. There are three components to each module; an online lesson which takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, an online exam and a supervisor safety check where the employee demonstrates his newly acquired safety skills to
his or her onsite supervisor. This completed checklist is signed by both supervisor and employee and becomes the official training document and record of each module passed. LandscapeSafety.com also keeps a copy of this document for verification. The bonus of this program is that a newly hired employee can complete the majority of the online training at home and arrive on the first day continued on CNLA Newsbrief
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Welcome, CNLA members.
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Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes Cyan
Magenta
Yellow
Black
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09-5697
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CNLA Newsbrief
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July-August 2009
Industry News Green Roofs bylaw passed The city of Toronto has taken leadership in promoting healthy cities by passing a green roofs bylaw of up to 50 per cent coverage for new buildings. With 50-75 new building projects annually in the city, Toronto may rival Chicago for the most green roofs installed.
Safety on the Job Site continued of the job prepared to complete the safety check with their new employer. Costs for safety training vary from one company to the next, with some companies spending more than $500,000 annually; a hard cost to justify for smaller companies, but well worth every dollar for larger companies within the industry. It is imperative that any employer constantly reinforces the safety training
practices put into place and takes advantage of the various safety training programs available. Any manager visiting a work site should wear personal protection, such as safety footwear, safety glasses and ear protection to reinforce to the employees that everyone within the company abides by the safety rules. A safer workplace and decrease in accidents is within the means of all companies that employ safety training programs.
Common workplace safety hazards
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration of the U.S. Labor Department has created the following chart of the most common safety hazards in the workplace and easy solutions to help prevent injury to employees. Soil preparation and grading to prepare the land for landscaping Primary hazards: Solutions: • Equipment accidents - Train and certify operators (CHT training) • Slips and trips on uneven terrain - Wear safety boots with traction soles • Vehicle accidents hauling equipment - Train and certify any drivers • Cuts and amputations - Stay clear of tiller blades • Hearing loss - Wear ear protection Installing irrigation lines Primary hazards: • Glue and primer hazards for skin • Amputation • Electrocution
The city already has a requirement for green roofs on city-owned properties and is currently building a green roof on City Hall that will be accessible to the public. Toronto has also established a $5/sq. ft. incentive program for creation of a green roof on an existing building. The City Hall project will be revealed at CitiesAlive!, the first international congress for green roofs, being held in Toronto on October 19-22, 2009. For more information, please visit www.toronto.ca/ building or www.citiesalive.org.
Atlas Block presents the PCR Block Atlas Block has revolutionalized the hardscape industry by creating a block using Poraver® technology, which processes recycled glass in a granulate for concrete mix. The Atlas PCR Block contains 30 per cent post-consumer recycled glass, exceeds industry standards, has excellent noise and heat insulation properties, and is unaffected by moisture. If Atlas Block were to use one per cent of Porver® in their line of products, Ontario landfill sites would decrease by approximately 1.9 million bottles annually. Atlas Block has set a new standard for conservation within the landscape industry.
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Solutions: - Wear safety gloves - Stay clear of trencher blades, inspect equipment - Call for utility locates
Hardscape construction of retaining walls, patios, decks and walkways Primary hazards: Solutions: • Cuts and amputations - Equipment safety training (CHT), keep guards are in place • Hearing loss - Wear ear protection • Lifting-related injuries - Learn how to lift heavy items correctly, stretching, get assistance from fellow employees • Slips and trips - Keep job site tidy • Trenching and excavation - Train staff properly using protective systems • Struck by loose or flying pieces - Wear personal protective equipment Planting of trees, shrubs and lawns including tree-staking and clean up of general area, as well as transport of crew to job site Primary hazards: Solutions: • Lifting-related injuries - Lift heavy items carefully, get assistance • Heat stress - Drink enough fluids, pay attention to body signals, take rest breaks and work and rest in shade when possible • Cuts and hand injuries - Wear gloves, inspect tools and equipment before use • Slips, trips and falls - Keep job site clean • Vehicle accidents - Train and certify drivers Lawn and landscape maintenance including mowing, pruning, fertilizing, blowing, general cleanup and transport of crew to job site Primary hazards: Solutions: • Cuts and amputations - Keep clear of rotating mower and brush-cutting blades • Hand injuries - Wear gloves • Chemical exposure - Follow material safety data sheets, implement effective hazard communication program and employee training • Eye injury - Wear protective eyewear when using equipment • Hearing loss - Wear ear protection when using power equipment • Ergonomics - Maintain comfortable settings, use safe lifting techniques • Vehicle accidents - Train drivers Tree care including pruning, chipping and removal of trees, as well as health care Primary hazards: Solutions: • Struck by falling branches - Be aware of drop zone, wear protective equipment (hard hat) • Cuts and amputations - Wear proper protective equipment, train staff on correct use of power equipment • Eye damage - Wear safety goggles • Ear damage - Wear ear protection for chipping/chainsaw noise • Electrocution - Comply with clearance rule of 10 feet plus 4 inches for every 10kV over 50kV, use a fiberglass ladder, not aluminium • Slips, trips and falls - Use tree tie-in
Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes
7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | Toll Free: 1-888-446-3499 | Toll Free Fax: 1-866-833-8603 | Email: info@canadanursery.com | www.canadanursery.com
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Industry News CanWest Goes for the Gold
Sept 23 & 24, 2009 Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre CanWest is featuring a Green Roof & Livings Walls tour. Delegates will be visiting North America’s largest non-industrial living green roof spanning more than six acres on top of Vancouver’s newest architectural wonder the Vancouver Convention Centre. (Photo courtesy of N.A.T.S. Nursery)
You can catch the Olympic spirit at Western Canada’s largest horticulture event of the year – CanWest! CanWest has blossomed beyond an exhibit focused show into a ‘not to be missed’ major industry event. With a key focus on business and professional development, delegates have the opportunity to learn about the
latest industry trends and new technologies, while also delving into topics such as social marketing and green roof technology. Say’s show manager, Karen De Jong, “We are confident that our speakers and tours will inspire new ideas and help facilitate business development for our growers, landscape professionals and garden centres as they begin to plan for 2010.”
CanWest offers a full range of experiences including 12 seminars, 2 workshops, 3 tours, networking opportunities and business building. With booth sales and trade show attendance on track to match or even exceed previous year’s performance, BC’s industry is showing great optimism for growth and sales in 2010. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your business and to remain competitive. Register today and learn more at www.CanWestHortShow.com!
Beautiful Blooms Reigned at the 2009 World Rose Festival The World Rose Festival was a complete indulgence in roses, featuring display gardens, floral art displays, a rose-themed fine art display, kids garden, seminars, workshops and Meet the Experts, along with the World Rose Show and competition. “Rose Show 2009, as part of the World Rose Festival, was our most successful Rose Show ever, with in excess of 1,000 entries from various parts of the world,“ says Lesley Findlay, Committee Chair, World Rose Show. “It was truly a delight to all the senses.”
“This was a high class show,” comments Terry Martinich, Chief Judge for the Vancouver Rose Society. “We are very pleased with the number of really high quality flowers that were exhibited this year.” The World Rose Show judges were also international, including world-renowned rosarians Peter Beales of England, Gerald Meylan, President of the Federation of World Rose Societies, of Switzerland and Steve Jones, President of the American Rose Society, from the U.S.A, making it a truly world class event. Top awards presented were “Best in Show”, won by a Japanese exhibitor Teizo Yoshiike, who transported his roses from Japan. Rumour has it he bought a seat on the airplane for his roses.
A sea of roses was displayed in the 2009 Rose Show competition, with over 1,000 entrants from all over the world.
Second and third “Best in Show” roses were awarded to John and Caroline Fredette from Seattle, U.S.A. It was a family affair for the Fredettes with BCLNA’s display at the World Rose their sons Festival, celebrating “A Picnic in Jason and Brian enter- the Park”. ing winning blossoms as well. Brian Fredette was the youngest entrant at 18 years of age. Along with the extensive display of rose entries, the World Rose Show’s display theme, “A Picnic in the Park”, featured vintage cars and an Antebellum maiden exhibited by the B.C. Floral Art Society. For more information on the World Rose Show and the World Rose Festival, and to see a complete list of all the Rose Show winners, visit www.worldrosefestival.com
Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes
7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | Toll Free: 1-888-446-3499 | Toll Free Fax: 1-866-833-8603 | Email: info@canadanursery.com | www.canadanursery.com
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CNLA Newsbrief
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July-August 2009
Association News
June 1st officially declared Arbor Day in Newfoundland and Labrador On Monday June 1st, 2009, The Honorable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Environment and Conservation, along with Landscape Newfoundland and Labrador (LNL) representatives Cle Newhook, Executive Director, and Anthony O’Neill, President, marked the first day of Environment Week by signing a proclamation to make June 1st Arbor Day in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Cle Newhook, Executive Director of LNL states, “As leaders, we must also be environmental stewards, and the proclamation of
Arbor Day is a wonderful means to highlight this stewardship. We cannot undervalue the importance that trees have in our ecosystems, and, from a broader perspective, on our environment overall.” To celebrate this significant event, Landscape Newfoundland and Labrador members participated in tree plantings in municipalities across the province. The members that participated in this year’s tree planting included: Hickey’s Plaisance Gardens & Nursery with a planting in Placentia, Veronica’s Greenhouse with a planting in the Town of Fogo, Murray’s Horticultural Services and Daisy Design with a planting in Portugal Cove-St. Phillips, Daisy Design participating in a planting in Grand Bank, and O’Neill’s GarAnthony O’Neill (left) with Minister Charlene Johnson (centre) and Cle Newhook (right).
Anthony O’Neill, president of Landscape Newfoundland and Labrador, oversees Minister Johnson’s planting at the Confederation Building.
denland with the planting of a tree on the grounds of the Confederation Building to mark the first official Arbor Day. Mayors, MHAs and press from each of the municipalities were invited to attend the events in their area, with many coming out to participate in the celebrations. Thank you to everyone who played a role in making Arbor Day a great success.We look forward to planting many more trees in the years to come.
New Brunswick to impose ban on lawn care pesticides
For the first time ever, meet the Green Tech Force!
The New Brunswick government is following the example of the Quebec and Ontario provinces. Environment Minister Roland Haché announced, starting in the fall of 2009, the use and sale of 200 overthe-counter lawn-care pesticides will be banned, giving businesses, homeowners and retailers time to adjust to the new regulation. New Brunswick is the first of the three Canadian Maritime provinces to impliment this measure, but the P.E.I. government is expected follow suit and ban the sale of cosmetic pesticides in 2010.
Demystifying technology to help your business be more successful. Green Tech Force seeks to empower customers by responding to their needs and educating them about the best tech solutions. Up to 6 partners (IT consultants) will be represented under the banner of Green Tech Force.
The ban is focusing on lawn-care products for domestic lawns containing 2,4-D, combination fertilizer and pesticide products, granular spreadable weed killers, hose-end spray products, and lawn-care pesticides that require a homeowner to measure, mix or dilute. Companies involved in lawncare using commercial grade pesticides and seeking operating permits will be required to have IPM accreditation by February 2010 and will promote spot treatment to lawns instead of “blanket treatment”. There will be exemptions for agriculture, forestry and golf courses. The Environmental Department will also be reviewing the current Pesticides Control Act for any other pesticides that can be eliminated. “This ban will contribute to an improved environment and quality of life for all residents in the province of New Brunswick,” Minister Haché said.
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10th Anniversary
These partners will cover the following topics (among others): 1) Websites (hosting, designing, maintenance) and email/newsletter management 2) Social networking (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flicker, others) 3) Training 4) Point-of-Sale, accounting packages and others The Green Tech Force partners will host 30-minute "fireside" chats on the topics above to be presented in BOOTH 829 on October 20th and 21st during the show hours. Garden centre managers, nursery owners and growers are especially invited to visit the Green Tech Force to ask questions and find the technology solutions that best fit their needs and their budgets.
Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes
7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | Toll Free: 1-888-446-3499 | Toll Free Fax: 1-866-833-8603 | Email: info@canadanursery.com | www.canadanursery.com
CNLA Newsbrief
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July-August 2009
Garden Centres Corner National Plastic Recycling Program The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) has committed to developing a National Plastic Recycling Program for its members. This program will result in the diversion of hundreds of metric tons of previously non-recyclable plastics from already crowded landfills. CNLA engaged a team of Wilfrid Laurier MBA students to conduct a feasibility study of a pot, tray and tag recycling program on a national level, and to develop a business plan to explain the benefits of the program and solicit stakeholders’ participation and financial support. The recently completed study provides business models and potential plans to execute the program and support its launch. CNLA’s newly-elected Environment Chair Bill Hardy, CLP, has given his approval to implement the program, exemplifying CNLA’s committment to leadership and initiative in furthering a green industry.
Plants ‘texting’ for water Thirsty plants with a small microchip can now send a message to a cell phone number, asking for water. Richard Stoner, president of AgriHouse, who markets the technology, says the thin microchip won’t interfere with the plant’s growth. In areas where conservation is imperative, this new technology will save growers water and money, since plants will be watered only at their ‘request’. For more information please visit http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2009/05/29/plantscell-phone.html
New Rose Unveiled The World Rose Festival unveiled the new Michel Trudeau rose, named in his honour by his aunt and uncle, Betsy and Robin Dening, rose breeders and owners of Brentwood Bay Nursery in Victoria, B.C. This rose has reddish-pink buds that open to large, fragrant, deep pink flowers with a white splashed centre. “The whole idea of the rose is to not only to commemorate Michel Trudeau,” says Robin Dening, “but to raise money for the awareness of avalanches in order to save more
lives.” Michel Trudeau lost his life in an avalanche while backcountry skiing in Kokanee Glacier Park, BC, in 1998 at the age of 23. He was the son of the late Prime Minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau and Margaret Trudeau. A portion of the proceeds from sales of the Michel Trudeau rose will benefit the Canadian Avalanche Foundation (CAF) in Michel’s honour. For leading garden centres and wholesale nurseries interested in joining this introduction please contact Adamson’s Heritage Nursery Ltd. at www.adamsons.ca or www.ownrootroses.com
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CNLA Newsbrief
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July-August 2009
Growers Corner/Coin de producteurs EAB movement restrictions go into effect
Restrictions de déplacement pour l’agrile du frêne entrent en vigueur
As advised earlier this year, the CFIA’s movement restriction on Fraxinus and all related ash products have now gone into effect. As of April 28, 2009 it is forbidden to move Fraxinus out of or into regulated areas. Ontario growers should be aware of some of the intricacies of these new movement restrictions. Ash trees can be moved within the area generally known as the GTA regulated area, which includes York, Durham, Peel, Halton, City of Toronto and the City of Hamilton. These contiguous counties are considered to be a single regulated area. A map which shows the boundary roads of this regulated area is now available on the CNLA website. In Southwestern Ontario, although there are a number of contiguous counties, movement of product between these counties is forbidden by Ministerial Order. Essex/Chatam/Kent counties, Lambton County, Middlesex Country, Elgin Country and Norfolk County are each considered to be separately regulated areas, despite the fact they are adjoining. Maps and more detailed information is available from the CFIA website: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/ plaveg/pestrava/agrpla/regrestrice.shtml
Tel qu’annoncé plus tôt cette année, l’Agence canadienne d’inspection des aliments a mis en place des restrictions de déplacement de Fraxinus et de tous les produits du frêne. Depuis le 28 avril 2009, il est défendu de déplacer Fraxinus hors des régions réglementées. Les producteurs de l’Ontario sont encouragés à se renseigner sur les détails de ces restrictions de déplacement. Les frênes peuvent être déplacés à l’intérieur de la région connue comme étant la région réglementée du Grand Toronto (GTA), qui inclue York, Durham, Peel, Halton, la ville de Toronto et la ville de Hamilton. Ces comtés contigus sont considérés comme étant une seule région réglementée. Une carte qui montre les limites de cette région est maintenant disponible sur le site Web de l’ACPP. Dans le sud-ouest de l’Ontario, où l’on retrouve plusieurs comtés contigus, le déplacement des produits entre ces comtés est quand même défendu par arrêté ministériel. Cependant, les comtés d’Essex/Chatam/Kent, le comté de Lambton, le comté de Middlesex, le comté d’Elgin et le comté de Norfolk sont considérés comme étant des zones réglementées séparées, bien qu’elles soient en fait contigües. Des cartes et de plus amples détails sont disponibles sur le site web de l’ACIA: www.inspection.gc.ca/ francais/plaveg/pestrava/agrpla/regrestrice.shtml
Water ban in Newfoundland In an attempt to deal with low levels at the region’s largest reservoirs, a ban on the outside use of water was imposed in July for cities and towns in Newfoundland that get their water from St. John’s regional system. The ban applies to the watering of lawns, flowers, vegetables, trees, and shrubs; use of water for outdoor swimming pools; washing of driveways and vehicles, as well as pressure-washing of windows and house siding. Residents have been recommeded to save and use household water for their outdoor watering needs, and as well, some freshwater ponds have been made available for residents affected by the ban in St. John’s, Mount Pearl, Paradise, Conception Bay South and Portugal Cove/St. Phillip’s. Exceptions to this ban include commercial pressurewashing companies and commercial car washes. New lawns can be watered for 60 days between the hours of 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily, and as well, commercial greenhouses and nurseries can water product within their premises only. Anthony O’Neill, president of Landscape Newfoundland and Labrador says, “This ban
means that the landscape/horticultural industry and garden-loving homeowners are taking the brunt of the water crisis. This ban has the potential to cause layoffs and financial grief for all sectors of the local landscape/ gardening industry. Turf producers can’t sell sod if the lawn-care sector can’t use any water for their maintenance programs. For homeowners who have invested hard-earned money into their residential landscapes, this has the potential to reduce property values.”
water solutions
the choice is simple...
Two mature tre can produce es or a 15 metre square tur enough oxyg en for a family f area of four. Parks and ga rdens provide lifesty reducing stres s and improv le benefits by ing productiv Landscaping ity. im both busines proves property values for s and residen tial by enhanc beauty of build ing the ings and comm unities. One tree can back into the discharge 151 litres of wa atmos ter the heat of on phere in a day, offsetting e hundred 10 0-w att bulbs burning eight hours per da Trees block co y. 50%, giving a ld air into buildings by up to po 10-12% per ye tential heating savings of ar.
This ad has been created to draw everyone’s attention to the crisis in Newfoundland; a crisis which could easily hit any one of the provincial associations across Canada. The hope is that anyone affected by this ban will rally together and support the industry to finding better solutions to the water concerns than applying a devastating water ban. O’Neill reminds us, “The horticultural/ landscape industry generates $20 million in direct employment (in Newfoundland). Without the economic, lifestyle, cultural and environmental value of trees and all plant life, our cities will become barren, arid and unhealthy places to live.”
water bans
NOT
Let’s create a paradise of living gree n spaces, full of colour that provide environmenta l, economic and lifestyle benefits! quarter page
water ban ad
version 2.indd
LANDS
NEWFOUNDLAN
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Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes
7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | Toll Free: 1-888-446-3499 | Toll Free Fax: 1-866-833-8603 | Email: info@canadanursery.com | www.canadanursery.com
CNLA Newsbrief
sponsored by :
July-August 2009
Certification Corner New preparation materials provided to CHT candidates! Preparing for CHT testing on equipment use is difficult since there are so many options available. In the past, many candidates have not been familiar with a certain type of equipment on the test, and this can give other candidates an unfair advantage. To solve this, within two weeks of their test date, candidates will now be given a list of equipment options that might be at the test site. This will give everyone an equal opportunity to practice on equipment with which they may be unfamiliar, before being judged on their ability to use it.
School’s out for the summer and the students are in! Students on summer break are now working at your company. Proper job instruction and training will ensure that they have a safe and productive work experience. CNLA’s Landscape OnSites is a good educational reference. The OnSite sessions have been designed to provide the framework for short, basic training sessions to develop an informed well-rounded employee. There are over 80 on-the-job training resources that you can download from: www.canadanursery.com/Page. asp?PageID=924&ContentID=1027 Referrals by professionals in the trade are the best and most successful means of recruiting high school students to choose a career in the green industry. If they are working for you right now, they have already displayed a growing interest!! Mentor the students
Recently Certified
Please remember that equipment for most CHT tests is generously provided by sponsors and the equipment they are able to lend on test day depends on their own inventory. Although unlikely, it is possible that last minute changes will need to be made. The equipment list provided to candidates highlights the makes and models that are most likely to be available for test day. However, candidates should always be prepared to see something different. At the time of registration, candidates are sent a test booklet, which outlines all of the stations they need to complete on test day. This booklet also outlines corresponding page numbers to reference in the Industry Training Manuals. These manuals are available to order from your regional association. CNLA has also created a series of videos of candidates going through the test stations, which can be viewed at www.youtube.com/ cnla. These are a great tool for candidates and employers to get a sense of what happens on test day and ease the minds of candidates when preparing for an upcoming evaluation.
Chris Brown, CHT Steven Campbell, CHT Ramiro Coto, CLP Heidi Devogel, CHT Yuzuru Kajiya, CHT Sean Kennedy, CHT Brandon MacLean, CHT Kevin Marshall, CHT
on your team and share this resource Landsca pe www.agritalent.ca, OnSit es a database where post-secondary landscape horticulture programs can be sourced across Canada. Encourage them to check out the Green Industry Careers link on our website www.canadanursery.com for more information on what our industry can offer, and be a role model for them in their career choice decisions. on the job
training sess
ions
proud sponso
r
When school resumes in the fall, why not go back for an afternoon or a day? Offer your time and talents to talk up the trade at your local high school career day… the students of today are our professionals of tomorrow.
*as of July 2009
ON ON BC ON ON ON ON ON
Jason McAuley, CHT William Poehner, CHT Amber Soleski, CHT Patrick Thompson, CHT Steve Tifenbach, CHT, CLP Bryan Tucker, CHT Bryan Turk, CHT Darryl Van Eerde, CHT
ON ON ON ON BC ON ON ON
Putting the Environment First in Your Business Operations We all know that some of our day-to-day tasks such as vehicle use can negate the wealth of environmental benefits of our industry. The green industry has taken another step forward by launching an environmental scorecard for companies to rate themselves on a series of best practices within the industry. The scorecard is a short, online survey that has questions pertaining to all areas of your business. It is a self-assessment tool to see where your company stands in environmental stewardship, and pinpoint any areas of improvement. It was created by Landscape Ontario’s Environmental Stewardship Committee, and was launched on Earth Day 2009. The goal is to develop training opportunities geared toward industry needs. Working toward these environmental best management practices will help us improve our image as the real green industry. Please visit www.canadanursery.com for a link to the survey and see how your company is doing. All responses are kept confidential, but contact information is required if you wish to receive your final score. CNLA’s Environment Committee is working on a number of new initiatives. If you are interested in participating on this committee, please contact Julia Ricottone at the CNLA office for more information on you how can become more involved (julia@canadanursery.com, 1-888-446-3499, ext. 8615).
Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes
7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | Toll Free: 1-888-446-3499 | Toll Free Fax: 1-866-833-8603 | Email: info@canadanursery.com | www.canadanursery.com
9
CNLA Newsbrief
sponsored by :
July-August 2009
Landscaper’s Corner
By Liz Klose BSc. Agr, CLP
Experience, Excel and Succeed at Skills Canada What: 15th Skills/Compétences Canada – National Where: Charlottetown, PEI When: May 20 – 23 2009 Why: Through programs and competitions, the Skills/ Compétences Canada organization aims to build a strong workforce that can support Canadian industry in an ever-changing global economy by making skilled trades and technology an attractive career choice for young people.
why
The event provides hand-on experience for young students in a competitive environment while raising the awareness of the value of trades and technologies. Who: • 500-600 competitors from every province in over 40 different trades, including six Landscape Gardening teams of two students from Manitoba, Quebec, Alberta, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and British Columbia. • 700 -1000 delegates from Canada • over 5,000 students and visitors attended
who Winners: Congratulations to Manitoba’s Thomas and Konrad Zinn, who clinched the first-place gold medal, and Quebec’s Marie-Michèle Therrien and Michel Charbonneau who took home Silver in the Landscape Gardening competition. All competitors deserve congratulations for showcasing their skills.
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All competitors expressed gratitude to their coaches, teachers and sponsors for supporting their efforts and having the faith in them and their abilities.
Mike Holmes, known as Canada’s most trusted contractor, host and creator of HGTV’s What People are number one Saying About Skills: show, Holmes “The Canadian Skills on Homes™, Competition is one-of-ais the national kind event highlighting spokesperson the skills and education of for Skills/Compétences Canada and young Canadians. I would like to offer for World Skills 2009. Holmes exclaimed, my personal congratulations to all of “There’s nothing more inspiring than to the students who have worked so hard to see students excited about what they do. qualify. Canada requires a highly skilled work The Skills events across the country inspires force to sustain its economic students, gives them options growth and competitiveness. I “I am so ready for this to consider and encourages would commend Skills/Compe- competition. I earned them to excel in what they like tences Canada for increasing to do and be the best at what the right to be here awareness for the benefits they love to do. The Holmes and rewards of a career in the and am going to Foundation raises money for skilled trades and technology do my college and education to support the stusectors, and for promoting the dents into the trades program. province proud.” value of highly trained profesThere’s nothing like seeing sionals to Canadian employers.” this succeed. It has become a good thing because we need to bring skilled trades back “This event is an example of partnership in to the forefront and support students.” action, with the Government of Canada, the Government of Prince Edward Island, industry “An event like the Canadian Skills Competiand educators all working together to ensure tion gives me great encouragement about that young Canadians have the knowledge the future of skilled trades and technology and skills they need to succeed today and well careers in Canada,” said Holmes, “I am so into the future. Improving your expertise and proud of the caliber of projects showcased pursing technical careers will not only help at this event, and I look forward to continuyou in the competition, but will ensure that ing to support unique programs and you have the tools to contribute to your comcompetitions that promote skilled trades munities tomorrow.” to young people.” The Honourable Diane Finley, P.C., M.P. , The Minister of Human Resources Mike Holmes has been recognized nationally and Skills Development for his promotion of skilled trades and his advocacy for improved building standards. In “Today’s youth will be the driving force a one-on-one interview, the man whose misbehind our economy as we move into the sion is to Make it Right™ shared his thoughts next decade. A cooperative effort by our about the landscaping trade, “Whatever educational institutions, the private sector you do, you gotta do it right. I am really, and government will ensure Canadians have really happy with what the landscape sector the necessary skills to participate fully in our is doing. People love to get out there and rapidly changing economy.” work hard; creating, landscaping, planting Robert Ghiz, and mowing, either as profession or as a Premier of Prince Edward Island past time …it is all another window of what we do for the environment.” His response to
winners
Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes
7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | Toll Free: 1-888-446-3499 | Toll Free Fax: 1-866-833-8603 | Email: info@canadanursery.com | www.canadanursery.com
CNLA Newsbrief
sponsored by :
July-August 2009
“The Landscape Canada Thank You National Technical learning that Landscape Committee (NTC)! Committee of CNLA Horticulturist was the The NTC team makes it all happen. From supports the Landscape 50th trade to receive the behind the scenes planning and comRed Seal status in the Gardening competition munications throughout the year, to securing 50-year history of apas an excellent venue for materials, supplies and sponsors, to ensuring prenticeship accredistudents to exhibit their that everything is set up to standards. Thank tation? “FABULOUS, landscaping skills and you to: Doug Conrad, CHT, CLD, CLP, Nova fabulous news!” talents. I congratulate the The topic of the competitors and commend Scotia, NTC Landscape Gardening Chair; Jamey Smith, CHT, PEI, NTC Landscape Sustainable Sites the volunteers and sponGardening Site Chair; Ken Nentwig, CLD, Initiative (www.sussors for their contributions CLP, Ontario, and also the Canadian Team tainablesites.org) was raised in showcasing the landscapExpert/Coach for Landscape Gardening Team in the interview, and Holmes responded, ing trade to the visiting Canada; Dominique Morasse, Quebec; Gord “Yes, I am very familiar with the public and students who “Thank you CNLA Sustainable Sites Initiative. It is are in the process of choos- Bone, Manitoba. David Moroz, Alberta, going to be a very, very big thing. for supporting us ing their future careers”. NTC site Chair of the 2009 The subject is green these days... Bruce Hunter, CHT, CLD, CLP, as students. The Landscape Gardening World Event in Calgary one way or another we will work Landscape Canada computer back pack together with you (CNLA). It is Committee Chair, CNLA Thank You Judges! important that we merge all the “swag” is great… worlds of technology together “This was the fourth nation- The expert judges volunteered their time really shows you and talents at the Skills/Compétences Canada for the best, and right results. We al competition I have had are backing us in need to use everyone’s expertise the privilege to be involved events to monitor and evaluate the project development and follow the strict guidelines and train people to build green in and I would say it was this event!” of industry standards and established work buildings, green roofs and literally the best. The facility was practices. They ensured competitors met take the best ideas from around the world top notch, the host (Jamey Smith, CHT) was the criteria of quality and accuracy of work, to incorporate into every new venture. amazing and the competitors put their heart We will make the change to build new and soul into their projects. Having the CNLA safety, cleanliness, skill level and creativity. Thank you to Ellen Ruddick, CLD, Landscape environmentally sustainable buildings and involved was a major factor in increasing the Design Manager, Price Landscaping Services, landscapes.” landscape industry’s exposure to thousands NB; Joe Bidermann, CHT, Joe Bidermann of young people. I’m really looking forward Landscape Design, NS; Ernie Morello, LandJudges, Student Competitor to the competition in Ontario next year, scape Architect, Charlottetown Area Developand Sponsor Testimonials where the projects will become a permanent ment Corporation, PEI. “This is one of the most important investpart of the landscape.” ments we can do for our industry, to support Doug Conrad, CHT, CLD, CLP, National Technical the students studying landscaping all across Committee, Landscape Gardening Chair, and Thank You Landscape Gardening Sponsors! the country, gathered together here – all Skills/Compétences Canada Representative, The success of the event is due to the excited and passionate about what they are Landscape Canada Committee, CNLA dedicated support of sponsors. A round of applause and thanks to: Atlantic CAT, The doing. As a former coach of a team at a previous event, it was an amazing and awesome “It was great to be part of this worthy compe- CAT Rental Store – Charlottetown, STIHL, Red Oak Landscaping, Shaw Group Ltd., Mori experience. This is something very close to tition and to be so involved in the landscape Nurseries, Island Instant Turf, my heart and that is why I am here.” component, a trade I am Oaks Concrete Product, DynaJoe Bidermann, CHT, so passionate about. Every “Supporting this event SCAPE, Charlottetown Driving Joe Bidermann Landscape Design, year I get phone calls from is the responsibility of Park, Prebuilt Steel Ltd, 2009 Landscape Gardening Judge people looking for work as the industry. The stuTransport and Public Works, a landscaper. A competition PEI, Island Coastal Services, What is CNLA saying like this educates the public dent competitors will be MacKinnon Trucking, Schurabout Skills? about our trade and shows the buyers and users of mans Concrete Ltd., CTF Sup“We sincerely thank our association members them we are more than just ply Ltd., CNLA – Landscape – the green industry ambassadors, who are gardeners. In my company, our products once they Canada Committee. dedicated coaches, committee volunteers I am looking for people graduate…they will and industry sponsors in supporting the with experience or trainremember that we were Klosing Comments student competitors in the Landscape Garing in masonry, plumbing, here supporting them.” We are gearing up for the dening competition. With CNLA becoming electrical, carpentry, and ‘olympic’ World Skills event a National Secretariat Partner this year, we of course horticulture and in Calgary. Check out www.agritalent.ca, join the ranks of the growing list of advocates landscape construction! The days of having released by the Canadian Agriculture Human who are making a commitment to promoting a truck, shovel and wheel barrel no longer Resource Council, a resource where you can our trade to students. Congratulations Skills/ qualify you to be a landscape professionCompétences Canada for leading the way al. The Skills competition we just participated find landscape horticulture educational programs. A new addition to our website menu in promoting the skilled trades to the future in showcases the landscape trade as a chalis “Green Industry Careers”, listing information professionals of our industry.” lenging, physical and creative career.” Victor Santacruz, CAE, CLP, Jamey Smith, CHT, NTC Site for prospective students. Share this with the Executive Director, Canadian Landscape Gardening Chair, sponsor summer students on your team! The students Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) (Red Oak Landscaping) and CNLA member of today are the professionals of tomorrow. Are YOU mentoring them in our trade?
advocac y
Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes
7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | Toll Free: 1-888-446-3499 | Toll Free Fax: 1-866-833-8603 | Email: info@canadanursery.com | www.canadanursery.com
11
CNLA Newsbrief
sponsored by :
July-August 2009
Upcoming Test Dates August August 13-14, 2009 - CHT Ottawa, ON August, 2009 - CHT Retail, ON September September 24, 2009 - CLD/CLP, Vancouver, BC September 25, 2009 - CHT Retest, Milton, ON October October 16, 2009 - CLD/CLP, Langley, BC October 16-17, 2009 - CHT, Langley, BC November November 19, 2009 - CLD/CLP, Edmonton, AB November 23, 2009 - CHT (Written only), CLD, CLP, Moncton, NB December December 9, 2009 - CHT (written only), CLD, CLP, Milton, ON February February 10, 2010 - CLD/CLP, Calgary, AB
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September 18-21: American Society of Landscape Architects Annual Meeting & Expo Lakeside Center, McCormick Place, Chicago. www.asla.org September 23-24: CanWest Hort Show, Vancouver Convention Centre, Vancouver. www.canwesthortshow.com October 6: Ohio Turf Foundation Annual Golf Tournament, Toledo (OH) Country Club. www.ohioturfgrass.org October 20-21: Garden & Florist Expo Toronto Congress Centre, Toronto. www.gardenexpo.ca
40042205
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Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes
7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | Toll Free: 1-888-446-3499 | Toll Free Fax: 1-866-833-8603 | Email: info@canadanursery.com | www.canadanursery.com