CNLA Newsbrief | Feb 2010 by Canadian Nursery Landscape Association

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January-February 2010

Green Industry News!

January-February 2010

Vol. 19 Issue 9

Karl Stensson CNLA President’s Award Recipient CNLA President Cary van Zanten (right) with Karl Stensson (left)

CNLA President Cary van Zanten of BC, was on hand to present the President’s Award to Karl Stensson for his “...years as a trailblazer, leader among peers and industry, and a very passionate volunteer who always has industry’s best intentions at heart.” Karl Stensson is the President of Sheridan Nurseries and has been part of the company since 1977. As a dedicated industry supporter for many years, he has served as President of Landscape Ontario and President of the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association. Karl has also served as committee member, board of directors, ambassador,

Look Inside: • • •

Mexico-Canada’s seasonal workers program BCNLA’s ban on cosmetic pesticide use Landscape Ontario’s Congress 2010

• • •

speaker at trade shows and has been active in promoting the green industry to children, adults and anyone who loves to garden. Herman Stensson, Karl’s grandfather, emigrated to Canada in 1913 to work as a horticulturist for the newly opened Sheridan Nurseries. Karl is one of 3 grandchildren who continue to run the business with the same family traditions, offering quality and hospitality as though each customer was a ‘guest’ in the Sheridan ‘home’. Says Karl, “We are constantly finding ways to get better.” His wisdom and guidance are a legacy for the future of our industry.

Because Green Matters award at MGS JVK sponsors Garden Centres Inspection Awards Grower’s Canada update

• • •

Atlantic Centre for Landscape Excellence BC seeks executive director Sustainable Sites initiative

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 EXECUTIVE BOARD: President Past President First Vice President Second Vice President Treasurer

Cary van Zanten - BC Michael Murray - NL Bill Stensson - ON Christine LeVatte, CLP - NS Rene Thiebaud, CLP - ON

DIRECTORS: Gerald Boot, CLP - ON Jeff Morton, CLT - NS Michael Kato - BC Harold Deenen, CLP - ON Bill Hardy, CLP - BC Bruce Hunter, CLT, CLD, CLP - BC Vic Krahn, CHT - SK Pierre Lavallée - QC Bruce McTavish - BC Darrell Nameth, CLP - NB Anthony O’Neill - NL Terry Nicholson, CLT - ON Phil Paxton, CLT, CLP - AB Owen Vanstone - MB Don Barry - NL

STAFF: Executive Director Victor Santacruz, CAE, CLP victor@canadanursery.com Member Services Manager Joseph Salemi, CAE joseph@canadanursery.com Professional and Business Joel Beatson, CAE, CLP Development Manager joel@canadanursery.com Manager of Provincial Relations Rebecca Wetselaar rebecca@canadanursery.com Growers Manager Rita Weerdenburg rita@canadanursery.com Landscape Priorities Manager Liz Klose, B.Sc., (Agr), CLP liz@canadanursery.com Certification Services Julia Ricottone, CEPIT julia@canadanursery.com Minor Use/IPM Co-ordinator Peter Isaacson, B.Sc., MPM peter@canadanursery.com Member Services Co-ordinator Agnes Zawartka, CLP agnes@canadanursery.com Communications Co-ordinator Kim Burton kim@canadanursery.com Finance Co-ordinator/ Cheryl Gall Executive Assistant cheryl@canadanursery.com Printed on recycled paper using vegetable based inks by: Harmony Printing, 50 Woodbine Downs Boulevard, Toronto, ON M9W 5R2

Mexico’s Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program and Canada´s Agricultural Industry have successfully partnered since 1974. The Mexico-Canada Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program (SAWP) was created to provide a supplementary source of reliable and qualified seasonal labour for Canada’s growing agricultural industry. For 35 years, the partnership created by Mexico’s workers and employers from Canada’s agricultural industry has proven to be effective in overcoming challenges in the global market economy. Participating workers from Mexico have experience in horticulture agriculture as well as animal husbandry and share with their Canadian employers a commitment to ethical work practices.

Quick Facts

3 out of 4 workers from Mexico return to the same Canadian employer the following year. Mexico’s seasonal workers return to the same employer for 8 to 10 consecutive seasons. There are no recruiting or finder´s fees to participate in the Program for either employers or workers.

SAWP provides Canadian employers in the horticulture and agriculture industries with a reliable and qualified supplementary work force.

Frequently Asked Questions How do workers become eligible for this program?

Through more than 150 offices, Mexico´s Ministry of Labour pre-selects and recruits workers from a pool of individuals who apply to be selected as a seasonal agricultural worker.

What skill level does a seasonal worker have?

Initial working experience is proven to Mexico’s Ministry of Labour, upon enter-

ing the Program. The majority have skills in planting and harvesting in both greenhouse and open field operations. In addition, the experience Mexican workers accumulate during their initial stay is highly recognized. Photos by STPS

LOHTA Representative, Insurance Chair LNS Representative BCLNA Representative Human Resources Chair Environment Chair Landscape Canada Chair Government Liaison, COHA Chair, SNLA Representative AQPP Representative Planning & Governmen, NAPPO Chair LNB Representative Member Services Chair Garden Centre Canada Chair National Certification Chair Landscape Canada Vice Chair, LANTA Representative LM Representative, Growers Canada Chair LNL Representative

Mexico-Canada Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program

Workers are skilled in both greenhouse and field operations.

Why are Mexican workers interested in participating in the program?

The Program offers an opportunity to supplement their household income and learn additional techniques applicable to their own production in Mexico.

Who gets to decide if a worker returns to the same employer?

A worker will return to the same farm when employer and worker coincide that the first time they partnered was satisfactory to both. At the end of every season, the employer may request that the worker come back the following year. At the same time, workers may agree to return based on whether they found that housing and working conditions were satisfactory.

What type of health screening is provided for workers prior to travelling to Canada?

To be able to engage in SAWP all workers must go through a medical exam by a health provider approved by Canadian Government health authorities. To learn more about the SAWP with Mexico, review the Program Fact Sheet on HRSDC’s website www.hrsdc.gc.ca/eng/ workplaceskills/foreign_workers/ ei_tfw/sawp_tfw.shtml Specific questions on the steps required to submit a request for seasonal workers

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INDUSTRY NEWS

ASSOCIATION NEWS

should be addressed to Service Canada´s Agricultural Foreign Temporary Workers Office (1-866-431-7297).

BCLNA Position Statement on the Banning of Cosmetic Pesticide Use in British Columbia

For additional information about the recruitment process conducted by Mexico´s Ministry of Labour, you may contact the Office of Labour Affairs at the Mexican Embassy by phone: 613-233-8988 extension 2251, or by email: liliane.loya@stps.gob.mx

ECLA is Growing!

Membership with the European Landscape Contractors Association (ELCA) grew with Malta’s national association Environmental Landscapes Consortium Limited officially joining the group. “The ELCA has become one of the associations with the most members in Europe within a short period. In 2000 the ELCA had eleven member associations; today the ELCA has expanded to 21 national member associations with more than 70,000 companies”, ECLA President Antoine Berger reported. The ELCA member countries include the 21 national associations of: Malta, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Finland, France, Greece, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Austria, Poland, Russia, Sweden, Switzerland, Spain, the Czech Republic and Hungary. After implementing changes to the statutes the ELCA can now accept organizations that are closely associated to landscaping as Associated Partners. The latest ELCA member to join as an Associated Partner was the European Arboricultural Council (EAC) which includes national tree care associations from the 21 countries. The Portuguese National Association of Forest, Agriculture and Environmental Enterprises (ANEFA), which includes landscapers, has applied for the ELCA Associated membership. The formal acceptance will occur at the next meeting of the ELCA-Presidium in April 22 in Brussels. Other partner associations include: Canada (CNLA), China, Japan, and the United States. The next professional excursion of the ELCA-Committee of Firms is taking place from 23th-25th April 2010 in Brussels. See www.elca.info/service/downloads. aspx?id=8074 for more information.

In February, 2009, the BC Landscape & Nursery Association Board of Directors moved to support the ban of cosmetic use of pesticides in the urban landscape, according to the guidelines of PlantHealthBC and the IPM model. This statement intends to clarify BCLNA’s position with regard to cosmetic pesticide use, the definition of “cosmetic” to which BCLNA subscribes, the basic principle of IPM, and the alignment of this position with BCLNA’s mandate as the voice for the BC landscape horticulture industry.

BCLNA’s position on Cosmetic Pesticide Bans

BCLNA supports the ban of cosmetic use of pesticides in the urban landscape, according to the guidelines of PlantHealthBC and the IPM model.

Definitions

“Cosmetic” pesticides, as interpreted by the BCLNA, are defined as any pest control products used to improve appearance

continued on page 4

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ASSOCIATION NEWS or aesthetics of a landscape. Cosmetic pesticide application does not include those products used to control pests or weeds that have significant detrimental effects on human health, the health of an ecosystem, the overall well-being of a constructed landscape, or on agricultural or environmental horticultural crops. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a knowledge-based pest management approach requiring an understanding of the landscape ecosystem including, most notably, the relationships and interactions of organisms, especially pests and their natural enemies. It is a flexible, adaptive approach that seeks not only to eliminate pests but to also manage their populations in environmentally sound ways, economically, and at acceptable levels in landscapes and public use lands. IPM uses the full range of pest management tools and tactics including cultural, physical, mechanical, biological, behavioral and chemical. Pesticides are used only as appropriate, sparingly and as a last resort. Management of pests is the goal, not control. PlantHealthBC is a pilot project designed to encourage widespread responsible pest management in British Columbia by holding lawn care, arboriculture and landscape maintenance companies, golf courses and parks accountable to a high standard of practices for weed, disease and insect control and by facilitating industry access to IPM/ Plant Health training. PlantHealthBC aims to create and implement a program which is open and transparent, self-sustaining and built on strong partnerships with key stakeholder groups. PlantHealthBC also aims to provide the public with a simple, reliable method for identifying companies and organizations that use responsible pest management practices.

Congruency with BCLNA’s Mission

Key to BCLNA’s mission is the progressive engagement of relevant issues, to the benefit of the environmental horticulture industry. The banning of cosmetic pesticide use has a wide-reaching effect on landscape practitioners. It signals new social and industry knowledge of the harmful effects of pesticide misuse. It also signals a recreation of the way horticulture professionals will do business in

an increasingly environmentally aware world. By supporting cosmetic pesticide bans, and endorsing pest management accreditation via PlantHealthBC, BCLNA is taking a progressive stance that will assist accredited companies in gaining the knowledge and skills required to reduce and/or eliminate pesticide use in their day-to-day operations. Much like the way BCLNA members mobilized to mitigate the spread of P. ramorum through nurseries, landscapes, and our broader ecosystem, a pre-emptive program to voluntarily reduce the use of pesticides is required. By assuring industry expertise and input to pesticide bylaws and legislation, BCLNA can assure control measures — delivered by only the most qualified and knowledgeable of applicators — remain available to safeguard human health, for delicate ecosystems, urban forests, agricultural and horticultural crops, from the detrimental ecologic and economic effects caused by infestations of pests, including invasive alien species.

Congruency with BCLNA objectives

BCLNA’s objectives are: • The promotion of high standards of horticulture practices throughout the Province of British Columbia. • The provision of skilled services to the public by members of the Association. • The promotion of the relevance of horticulture in fostering the healthy stewardship and beautification of urban and rural environments. • The furtherance of the interests of members of the Association; and • To do all such things as are incidental or conducive to the attainment of the above principles. It is the position of BCLNA that supporting not simply cosmetic pesticide bans, but also subscribing to the guidelines and principals established by PlantHealthBC and IPM, ensures BCLNA members remain leaders in advancing a skilled workforce that meets and exceeds

standards of care, environmental stewardship, and the long-term industry sustainability.

Participation with the broader community

Just as BCLNA asserts the expertise of its member professionals, the association also relies heavily on the expertise offered by affiliates, industry allies, governments at all levels, environmental groups, First Nations, educators, researchers, and other stakeholders, while helping members meet the needs and expectations of the public. Through extensive consultation with all these groups, BCLNA has cooperatively established PlantHealthBC and placed it in the administrative hands of an independent third-party: the Institute for Sustainable Horticulture. In doing so, BCLNA is better able to maintain its role as a trustworthy association within the broader community.

Sending a message

In supporting cosmetic pesticide bans, BCLNA sends a message that our members are active and conscientious stewards of the environment and the environmental horticulture industry. Members can put this message into action by: • Obtaining PlantHealthBC pest management accreditation. • Getting educated on what IPM is, working to dispel pervasive myths surrounding IPM, and in turn educating your customers, clients, colleagues, and community. • Advocating that pesticides should only be used by qualified and knowledgeable professionals, as a last resort, in combating pests and invasive alien species that threaten human health, delicate ecosystems, urban forests, and agricultural and horticulture crops. • Pursuing knowledge and training on the preventative measures, monitoring, and control methods required when practicing horticulture without the use of pesticides. • Understanding that restrictions and protocols that may seem unwieldy at first can become valuable and marketable steps in assuring the sustainability of your business in an increasingly environmentally-aware society.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

Major buzz surrounds Congress 2010 From attendees to exhibitors, reactions were unanimous: Landscape Ontario’s Congress 2010 was a smash hit. Positive comments, overall attendance showing a 22 per cent increase and attendees in the mood to do business, all made for success, with exhibitors reporting great contacts; some making a number of good business deals. “There were a number of factors at play this year that resulted in success at Congress,” said show manager Paul Day. “Of course the weather had a lot to do with it, but there was also the fact that many members of our industry are buoyed by the improving economy and that Congress has become the place to be in order to see what’s new in the industry. The status of Congress improves every year,” said Day.

tion is happy to join Landscape Ontario in celebrating businesses that see sustainable opportunities and embrace green initiatives and innovation,” said Tammy Lawrence, president of Turf Revolution.

LO celebrates achievement

The high level of excellence and professionalism among LO members was again recognized at the 37th annual Awards of Excellence gala evening, part of Congress 2010. “This award show is one of my favourite evenings of the year,” said LO executive director Tony DiGiovanni. “We were all really

happy to see not just returning entrants, but several member companies entering for the first time. The association is well represented here tonight.” In an emotional presentation, immediate past president Bob Adams accepted the LO President’s Ring from Bob Tubby. “There are few LO members who care about our association as deeply as Bob Adams,” said Tubby. “Bob demonstrated his commitment to the association by attempting to participate in every single activity that the association organizes.” A complete list of those winners can be found on www.loawards.com.

A Cut Above.

Green for Life Award

Winners of the inaugural Green for Life Award were announced at Congress. The winner of the contractor award was Appleby Landscaping of Milton, ON with Lemkey Landscape Design of Winnipeg, MN winning the design category and Clintar Landscape Management of Mount Hope, ON taking the prize in the lawn care. The Green for Life Award recognizes and awards environmentally responsible companies in the horticulture, landscape construction and design industry. Winners were drawn from participants completing the Environmental Scorecard, a tool developed by Landscape Ontario in order that green industry businesses can rate their environmental practices and benchmark for future improvements. There were over 472 entries, including over 287 from Ontario. In congratulating the Green for Life Award winners, Nathan Helder, chair of LO’s Environmental Stewardship Committee and awards judge, said, “Dedication to environmental practices is a life-long commitment, and reflects a growing trend towards environmental stewardship that is not time bound. Environmental assessments are a tool that businesses can use annually to make continuous, incremental improvements and become even more environmentally responsible.” Turf Revolution sponsored the Green for Life Awards. “Turf Revolu-

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CEO of International Peace Garden awarded "Because Green Matters" award in Manitoba

On February 9th, 2010 at the Manitoba Green Show, Landscape Manitoba handed out the Project EverGreen “Because Green Matters” Award to Doug Hevonor, CEO of The International Peace Garden. The Because Green Matters Award is presented to an individual or organization whose actions or influence have directly resulted in a betterment and sustainability of our environGord Bone (left) Doug Hevenor, David Hinton (right) ment and also made a significant contribution to the green industry in Manitoba. these projects to proceed. The International Peace Garden, existing since 1932, sits along Since taking on the role of CEO in 2005, the world’s longest unfortified border in Hevenor has worked tirelessly to revamp between North Dakota and Manitoba, and the aging gardens and infrastructure at the acts as a symbol of friendship. International Peace Gardens. His lobbying efforts on both sides of the border have resulted in major funding that will allow

Leaders in the Nursery Industry Dedicated to Service

Sales Coordinator Moristar Perennials

Immediate opening for permanent full-time sales position Responsible for marketing and selling perennial products to meet customers’ needs, in addition to coordinating sale orders from mobile Sales team. Sales coordinator will develop annual marketing plan and sales strategies for various customer groups, set pricing and determine products for production. Responsible for the efficient and friendly service by the office staff. Minimum education level: College/University Diploma in Horticulture. Minimum 3 years in recent nursery sales operations. Send resume to:

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R.R.2, 1695 Niagara Stone Rd., Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S1J0 Fax: 905-468-7271 or email:resumes@morinurseries.com

Congratulations to Doug Hevenor for this great achievement! For more information on Landscape Manitoba, visit www.landscapemanitoba.com.

Communities in Bloom, governments at all levels, the BC Agriculture Council and others, is key. A detailed description has been posted to www.BCLNA.com. The BC Landscape & Nursery Association was formed in 1953, with chapters in the Lower Mainland, the Interior, and on the Island. The BCLNA offers member companies leadership, education, information, and services, toward the development of more knowledgeable and responsible horticulture practices. Included in its mandate is also industry and environmental sustainability, business development and issues management for BC’s green industry. For more information contact: Ruth Olde, President BC Landscape & Nursery Association Suite #102, 5783 - 176A Street Surrey, BC V3S 6S6  BCLNA office tel: 604-574-7772 www.bclna.com To inquire further about the position, or to apply, email bclna.career@gmail.com.

BCNLA looks for new Arriving soon! executive director BC Landscape & Nursery Association announced today that the 800-member, 57-year strong, multi-faceted organization is seeking an Executive Director. BCLNA President, Ruth Olde, is optimistic in the association’s ability to find a good fit for member landscape, nursery and garden retail professionals. “The BCLNA is a vibrant, active, forward looking association with a long history and a strong vision and mission statement. We eagerly anticipate attracting a talented, dedicated, like minded executive director, whose knowledge and experience will help us maintain our vitality and move ever forward,” says Olde. She added that the staff and board have gone through a rigorous process to determine the talents required of the position, which facilitates and implements a vast array of horticulture and environment-related programs for the BCLNA and the broader community. Strategic planning and implementation skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with a wide network of members, staff, and complementary agencies like

The 2010 CNLA membership directory will be arriving at your garden centres, nurseries and hort businesses within the next week. We’ve worked closely with our provincial associations so that this year’s directory has the most up-to-date listings of members from across Canada. We hope that you will find the directory a valuable tool in connecting you, our members, with those who provide the services and products you’re looking for. Keep this directory handy to give you access to the information you need, when you need it. The online version of the CNLA directory will be posted to our website, where viewers can scroll through the pages and click the links to listed websites and mem bersh advertisers. ip d irecto ry

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Garden Centres Corner New sponsor for Inspection Awards Program

Garden Centres Canada is proud to announce a sponsorship partnership with JVK. JVK will be sponsoring Garden Centres Canada's 2009/2010 Inspection Awards Program. This is the first year for this garden centre award, which will take place at CNLA's National Awards of Landscape Excellence in Ottawa this February. An award will be handed out to the highest scoring garden centre based on our 2009 Inspection Program. We appreciate JVK's support of this new initiative! Atlantic Gardens in Bedford, NS participated in the 2009 Inspection Program

For more information on the 2010 inspection program, visit CNLA's website at www.canandanursery.com and click on "Garden Centres Canada", or contact Rebecca Wetselaar at 1-866-383-4711 or rebecca@candanursery.com. We are now registering garden centres for the 2010 inspections taking place in June – inspections will be held all across Canada. Space is limited, so sign up today to guarantee your space!

Garden Centres Canada Survey now available on-line

The 2009 survey is now available on line. Please take the time to complete our 2009 Garden Centres Canada Survey. We look forward to reporting back to you on the trends, financial standing of our members and on the overall situation of the garden centre industry across Canada. Please visit www.canadanursery.com and click on “Garden Centres Canada” to complete an online survey. We appreciate your participation and input on how to make the Garden Centres Canada committee work better for you.

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landscape industry

certified

Certification Corner

Work hard to earn success through

Specialist High Skills Major-Landscaping BY SAM VAMPLEW, NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL

I’m a Notre Dame student in the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM)-Landscaping program. The course, along with my teacher Mr. Nason, has brought me many opportunities to grow both as an individual and a landscaper. It has allowed me to expand my knowledge in every aspect of the industry, and continue to improve and sharpen my skills with both hands-on work as well as theory and design. Last year my partner and I competed in the Halton Skills Competition for Landscaping over at MM Robinson against six other schools and we earned the gold medal. This allowed us to advance to the Ontario Skills Competition in Waterloo. There we competed against 20 different schools from around the province, and again are very proud to have won gold. I don’t think we could have won the gold medals without good teamwork, the guidance of my teacher and the support of the students in our class. This course has taught me so many things that helped us succeed not only in the competition but out in the work field as well. Because this was one of the first SHSM courses offered for landscaping there was a lot of interest from landscaping companies

that were willing to take on and further train students so that they could get more experience. I got a job at Country Estates where I was able to show my skills and learn new techniques.

Recently Certified Jaime Dunlop, CLD Sabrina Goettler, CLP Marek Kociolek, CLP Anthony Lombardi, CLD, CLP Jeff Pope, CLT, CLP Chris Ray, CLP

ON ON BC ON BC ON

*as of February 2010

With the success that I’ve had so far in the landscaping industry and the SHSM, Landscape Ontario has been in contact with me and has asked me to participate in a few of their upcoming projects. Without this SHSM course they probably wouldn’t have heard of me, so for that I can thank the course and its coordinators. Currently I have three out of the 12 components required to achieve my CHT, which is my Certified Horticultural Technician. These certifications will be added to my resumé. The knowledge gained while earning these certifications will help me to do my job safely, effectively, and I will also qualify for higher pay in the workplace.

retail horticulturist

Take it from me that you will have to work hard to earn your success. The best advice I can give you is to always keep a positive attitude, and that hard work will lead to success… and success leads to more open doors in the future. Reprinted with permission from Passport to Prosperity

www.landscapeindustrycertified.org 8

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Growers Corner/Coin de producteurs BY RITA WEERDENBURG

Growers Canada

Representatives on the Growers Canada committee from right across the country met in Ottawa to form a strategic plan for the next few years. We were excited to hear the discussion among growers on issues ranging from nursery certification to export market development. We are now in the process of refining these priorities from industry and developing an action plan to accomplish each of them. One of our major initiatives has been our ongoing negotiation with AAFC to transfer the ornamentals breeding program at Morden Station to industry. While the closing of the hardy plant breeding program at Morden has understandably been of great concern to the industry and especially to the nursery and landscape sectors within the prairies, we believe that this truly represents a win-win scenario for industry and government alike. We will continue to keep the industry abreast of these developments through the CNLA Newsbrief and the online Growers Update. Another significant issue facing growers across the country is nursery certification and the implementation of the Domestic hytosanitary Certification Program (DPCP). This program is a systems-based nursery management scheme which helps the grower to adopt better management practices and significantly reduces the risk of pest infestation. Growers Canada supports this voluntary program and encourages growers to investigate how to adopt it on their respective operations. More details can be found at www.cleanplants.ca. Growers Canada continues to be an effective and strong voice for Canadian nursery growers at the federal level. Members of the committee spent a number of days in Ottawa this past December, meeting with high level staff at those departments that impact our companies and significant inroads were made. Only weeks after our meeting with Karla House and Tyler McCann (Policy Advisors to Minister Ritz), we have learned that AAFC are finally committed to a stable Plant Health Compensation policy. Through the participation of CNLA, FCG and FIHOQ, we are confident that this new policy will address the needs of the ornamental sector. We remain committed to taking the concerns and challenges facing Canadian growers and finding workable solutions. Growers with specific concerns are invited to contact myself or CNLA Grower Manager Rita Weerdenburg as follows: Owen Vanstone Rita Weerdenburg owen@vanstonenurseries.com ritaw@canadanursery.com

Producteurs canadiens

Des représentants du comité des producteurs canadiens venant de partout à travers le pays se sont réunis à Ottawa pour établir un plan stratégique pour les prochaines années. Nous sommes heureux d’apprendre que la discussion a porté sur des questions relatives à la production allant de la certification des pépinières au développement du marché de l’exportation. Nous sommes maintenant en train de raffiner ces priorités et de mettre au point un plan d’action pour les réaliser en entier. Une de nos initiatives principales a été de continuer les négociations avec l’AAC pour transférer le programme de propagation des plantes ornementales de la ferme expérimentale de Morden à l’industrie. Bien que la clôture du programme de recherche sur les plantes rustiques de Morden a, on le comprend bien, inquiété considérablement les gens de l’industrie et en particulier les secteurs des pépinières et de l’aménagement de la région des Prairies, nous croyons que cela est vraiment un scénario où l’industrie et le gouvernement seront tous deux gagnants. Nous continuerons à informer l’industrie des développements de cette affaire par le biais du bulletin de nouvelles de l’ACPP, CNLA Newsbrief et du communiqué en ligne, Growers Update. Une autre question d’importance à laquelle les producteurs canadiens font face est la certification des pépinières et l’implantation du programme national de certification phytosanitaire (PNCP). Ce programme systématique de gestion de pépinière permet au producteur d’adopter de meilleures pratiques de gestion et de réduire de façon significative les risques posés par les ravageurs. Growers Canada appuie ce programme volontaire et encourage les producteurs à ajuster le programme aux besoins respectifs de leur entreprise. On peut trouver de plus amples détails à www.cleanplants.ca. Growers Canada continue à être un représentant efficace et un porte-parole puissant pour les producteurs canadiens en pépinières auprès du gouvernement fédéral. Les membres du comité ont passé plusieurs jours à Ottawa en décembre dernier, pour rencontrer les fonctionnaires de haut niveau des ministères qui ont des répercussions sur nos entreprises et ils ont fait des progrès importants. En effet, quelques semaines seulement après avoir rencontré Karla House et Tyler McCann (conseillers politiques du ministre Ritz), nous avons appris que l'AAC s’est finalement engagé à une politique stable d’indemnisation des risques de production. Grâce à la participation de l’ACPP, de FCG et de la FIHOQ, nous sommes surs que cette nouvelle politique répondra aux besoins du secteur ornemental. Nous vous promettons de continuer à prendre à cœur et à solutionner de façon satisfaisante les questions et les défis auxquels font face les producteurs canadiens. J’invite les producteurs qui ont des problèmes spécifiques à me contacter directement ou Rita Weerdenburg, directrice du secteur production à l’ACPP : Owen Vanstone Rita Weerdenburg owen@vanstonenurseries.com ritaw@canadanursery.com

CNLA Newsbrief

sponsored by:

January-February 2010

Landscapers Corner NSAC History and

The N ova Sc otia A intern gric ationa lly reco ultural Col and re lege gniz sear since 19 ch institutio ed and resp (NSAC) is an ected n, prov 05. teachi iding ng quality NSAC educat has alw ion ays be hortic en a vi ulture ta indust qualifi ry, in m l partner w ed land ith ee scape hortic ting the grow the landscap NSAC ulture e ing de will pa pr m of and fo essiona rt develo r ls. p the At ner with its indust and de lantic The N ry st Cen liv eed fo indust er a broad sp tre for Land akeholders to ry-spe r ACL ec sc trum of ape Ex • Add cific tr E cellenc post-s aining resses e econda initiat the co Atlant ry and ives. ntinui ic Can ng skill Landsc ad in a, ed labo Landsc ne with th ape N ed of em ur shor ape N ova Sc e land pl ew oy tage in ot scap Atlant ees to ia foundl • Fu ic meet th e horticul lfills in ture tr Canad Region Cer and and Labr e dem ade tificatio ian Nur from fa dustry requ and. ador ire nC sery La ll Nova ndscap ommittee training to spring. Th ment for trai Scotia e Assoc ning in is facilit to take Nova indust ia the m Scotia Agricultura ry dow place indoor y would allo onths l Colle tion Federa w this ntime. ge s durin tion of • Offe g the ty Agricul rs ou pical ture stakeh r students, in olders stream dustry mem solutio lined an be ns and d releva rs and indu opport stry • Supp unities nt skill ! s traini orts ng LA and th the Landsc ND SCA ape H e prac PE orticul tical tr turist aining • Foste Appren /testin rs a ne g. ticeshi tworki and th p ng part e indu nershi stry to sions by p be host jo offerin int even tween the co to indu g cent landsc llege ts/e ra stry re ape in lated as l training or ducational dustry se sociat ions/g meeting faci sroups. lities • Ex pands as field opportunity for even days, eq demon uipmen ts such landsc stratio ape in ns, skill t/product pubic dustry open ho competitio ns, uses an networ retail d othe landsc horticu king ac r ltu rist ape in tivities dustry . • Allo ws for the potent techni ia l cian expans of a hi ion gh focuse school landsc d traini ng ape in progra m. dustry

Landscape Canada Survey

NEW

FOUNDL

certifi

AND

Suppo rt

Students and professionals will have streamlined access from Atlantic Canada’s accredited educational institutions for industry training and certification programs, including Landscape Industry Certified. AND

LABR

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growin forwar g d trainin profes g sionals ....

ed Your responses will help to identify the needs and trends of the industry so the ce rtifiedThe Need for ACLE CNLA can better address priority issues certifi • Addresses the conand opportunities. Collectively, the re- ed tinuing skilled labour sponses will demonstrate the importance certifi shortage in Atlantic e d and contribution of the landscapelandsector to scape Canada, with the certifiindustry the Canadian economy. A summary of ethe d landscape horticulsurvey results will be published in the next ture trade in need issue and posted to the CNLA website, as a of employees to meet the resource for your future strategic business demand. planning. The more responses, the more ac• Fulfills industry requirement for training curate the survey data; so make your mark in the months from fall to spring. This on the survey. Your responses do make a facility would allow this training to difference. Thank you. take place indoors during the typical industry downtime. • Offers students, industry members and stake-holders streamlined and relevant skills The Atlantic Centre for Landscape Exceltraining solutions and opportunities. lence (ACLE) will be the signature innovation • Supports the Landscape Horticulturist centre for landscape horticulture in Atlantic Apprenticeship and the practical trainCanada. It will parallel and support Nova ing/testing. Scotia Agricultural College’s (NSAC) con• Fosters a networking partnership betinued leadership in landscape horticulture tween the college and the industry to training and education. host joint events/educational sessions, by offering central training and meeting NSAC will align its educational programs facilities to industry related groups and and services outcomes with landscape associations. industry certification and specialize in the • Expands the opportunity for events provincial Red Seal approved Landscape such as field days, equipment/product Horticulturist trade program. This integrated demonstrations, skill competitions, publearning environment offers a uniquely lic open houses and other networking efficient combination of theoretical and activities. practical hands-on training and testing for • Allows for the potential expansion of a both students and industry professionals. high school-focused training program. brochu

re.ind

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Vision: To develop a centre of landscape excellence in regions/ provinces across Canada. The Atlantic Centre for Landscape Excellence will be a ground-breaking venture.

The A tlantic C e n tre for Landsc ape E xcellen ce

You can make a difference in the world of landscaping across our nation…in 30 minutes or less. How? By completing the Landscape Canada Survey that was sent to our current member email contact list.

BY LIZ KLOSE BSC. AGR, CLP

manag er

The ACLE Campaign has targeted 5 priorities:

design er

11/12

/09

Atlantic Centre for Landscape Excellence

11:52

:45 AM

• •

•

• Create a Centre for Landscape Excellence to showcase and advance horticulture, landscape-based education and the related stakeholder activities and opportunities. Expand the reach and access of educational opportunities for the students, industry, government and the community. Establish direct delivery routes between education and the workforce with the integration of industry-specific apprenticeship and certification programs. Broaden the selection of practical, handson education and training programs to meet the growing demands of skilled professionals, member companies and related stakeholders in the landscape horticulture industry. Seek and secure financial resources to establish a sustainable facility to continue the development and delivery of a variety of educational events and programs.

Champions supporting ACLE

The following associations have pledged their support of the ACLE venture: Landscape Nova Scotia, Landscape Newfoundland and Labrador, Atlantic Region

CNLA Newsbrief

sponsored by:

January-February 2010

Certification Committee, Nova Scotia Agricultural College, Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture and the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association. A committee of dedicated volunteers and CNLA staff has been meeting and developing this new exciting venture for the landscape sector in Atlantic Canada, including: Christene LeVatte, Chair, Doug Conrad, Tracey MacKenzie, Pam Woodman, Scott Mosher, Jeannette French, Cle Newhook, Anthony O’Neill, and CNLA staff Victor Santacruz, Julia Ricottone, Joel Beatson, Rebecca Wetselaar and Liz Klose. Beyond the committee, many thanks to Peter Johnston Berresford, Glenn Fox, Jack Berggren, Ian Morrow and David Moroz of Olds College, Olds, Alberta for sharing their experience, expertise and guidance based on the Olds Pavilion and to and Ken Nentwig, formerly of Ridgetown College. The committee is presently investigating funding opportunities to build the facility from the ground up. Please join us as a champion in building the Atlantic Centre for Landscape Excellence! For more information on sponsorship or partnership opportunities, contact us at 1-888-446-3499 ext. 8615.

CNLA 4-H ‘Green for Life’ Proposal

The CNLA 4-H Green for Life proposal received a ‘first phase approval’ in a threestep review process with the Canadian 4-H Council. The Council promotes the visibility of 4-H through national public relations initiatives, facilitates communication and information sharing between the provincial 4-H programs, and develops recruitment and educational resource materials. It is a successful first of three steps, but such a promising new venture that it warranted an initial feature in this issue. The proposal involves developing a cluster of landscape horticulture educational modules, aligned with 4-H strategies and embraces their motto: “Learn to do by doing®”. The objective is to engage 4-H youth in green space activities to inspire youth involvement. Thanks to Landscape Ontario for their enthusiastic support of this venture and allowing us to use “Green for Life” brand – an appropriate title that aligns with the “Growing Green” signature of 4-H. There is a growing awareness and respect for the environment, ecology and the love of nature by youth. By establishing a stimulating interchange and application of knowledge, interpersonal and practical skills

The Green for Life objective is to engage 4-H youth and inspire involvement.

7. 8. 9.

revolving around landscape horticulture, it was a means of engaging youth to “try it… you just might like it!”. To cultivate interest through the educational modules provides a service to the 4-H Clubs across Canada and an opportunity to network with the industry. The relationship will be mutually beneficial. 4-H continues to strive to help the 35,000 members and 10,000 leaders across Canada become exceptional community leaders. Worldwide, there are over 7 million members in 80 countries that belong to the 4-H program. For more information, see their website www.4-h-canada.ca As development progresses, more information will be featured.

Sustainable Sites – more news

The Sustainable Sites Initiative: Guidelines and Performance Benchmarks 2009 available at www.sustainablesites.org/report along with another reference: The Case for Sustainable Landscapes are two documents worthy of review. They contain a wealth of easy to follow information regarding the details of SSI.

Structure of prerequisites and credits

The prerequisites and credits are organized into nine sections that are based on the process of site development and can guide an integrated design team through the project phases. The point system was modeled after the LEED® accreditation system: 1. Site Selection: 21 possible points 2. Pre-Design Assessment and Planning: 4 possible points 3. Site Design—Water: 44 possible points 4. Site Design—Soil and Vegetation: 51 possible points 5. Site Design—Materials Selection: 36 possible points 6. Site Design—Human Health and Well-Being: 32 possible points

Construction: 21 possible points Operations and Maintenance: 23 possible points Monitoring and Innovation: 18 possible points

For a list of prerequisites and credits within the 9 categories above, refer to Page 12 of the Guidelines. Note that prerequisites are required and therefore are not assigned a point value. Each credit is assigned a point value and in many cases they offer a range of points, providing additional flexibility in selecting the level (or benchmark) that is appropriate and achievable.

2009 Rating System: 250 Points Total

One Star: 100 points (40% of total points) Two Stars: 125 points (50% of total points) Three Stars: 150 points (60% of total points) Four Stars: 200 points (80% of total points) The Sustainable Sites Initiative anticipates refining the 2009 rating system after the completion of the pilot project program. Contact the SSI at info@sustainablesites.org to learn more about getting involved or to ask questions. You can also sign up for email updates with news and other timely information at www.sustainablesites.org/email.

Klosing Comments

A recent discussion with Phil Paxton, CHT, CLP, President-Alpha Better Group of Companies, CNLA Board member and Landscape Canada Committee Vice Chair, focused on the tremendous value-added benefits members receive through belonging to the provincial association and the CNLA. We talked about how the value far surpasses the membership cost. There are new ideas, diversity and wisdom in critical mass. By encouraging a non-member to join gives the industry another voice to be heard....strength in numbers. One new idea sparked from an association meeting, event, publication or conversation with a colleague can change your life and business. Many can attest to that. The world is rapidly changing with new initiatives, practices and technologies. Sustainable Sites, green roofs, green walls, energy conservation and pervious paving come to mind. Where were they a decade or so ago? Sustainable Sites will merge with LEED in 2 years, and now major metropolitan cities have green roof by-laws. A lasting impression was Phil’s profound statement: “The ideas of today are the reality of tomorrow”. Will you be ready?

CNLA Newsbrief

sponsored by:

January-February 2010

Upcoming test dates British Columbia July 16-17, 2010 CHT, CLD, CLP Langley, BC Altantic Region April 23-24, 2010 CHT, CLD, CLP Truro, NS

Alberta March 30-31, 2010 CHT, CLD, CLP Olds, AB Ontario March 18, 2010 CHT (written), CLD, CLP Toronto, ON

#1 in Cutquiks®

#1 in Chain Saws

#1 in Backpack Blowers

#1 in Straight Shaft Trimmers

* Source: 2008 - 2009 Outdoor Power Equipment Institute Canadian Market Share Report for yearly imported gasoline chain saws, gasoline backpack blowers, gasoline cut-off machines and gasoline grass trimmers.

July 8-9, 2010 CHT, CLD, CLP Milton, ON

Industry events

Special thanks to our Canadian customers. Canadian professionals trust their independent STIHL Dealer everyday for product demonstrations, straight talk and expert advice. The legion of over 1,000 STIHL Dealers coast to coast are committed to fast on-site service and to stand behind every STIHL product. Thanks to your support of the servicing dealer, STIHL is the Number 1 Brand in Canada.

April 8-9, 2010 CHT, CLD, CLP London, ON

Sales & Service

March 10-11, 2010: Saskatchewan Equipment Expo, Saskatoon, SK: Prairieland Park. www.saskeqexpo.net March 17-21, 2010: Canada Blooms Festival, Toronto, ON: Direct Energy Centre Exhibition Place www.canadablooms.ca March 18-21, 2010: Successful Gardening Show, Toronto, ON: Toronto International Centre September 29-30, 2010: CANWEST Hort Show, Vancouver, BC: Vancouver Convention Centre, West Building: www.canwesthortshow.com October 19-20, 2010: EXPO 2010, Toronto, ON: Toronto Congress Centre. www.loexpo.ca

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