Winter Newsbrief 2015 by Canadian Nursery Landscape Association

Olds College Celebrates 50 years of Horticulture

Construction on new ACLE facility underway

LCC and GCC survey results available

Green Industry News Winter 2015 Vol. 24 Issue 1

What’s inside: • Never Alone Rose takes the stage at CFL event • Developing a National Occupational Analysis for the nursery industry • Legal expense insurance is coming • Use it or lose it: Canada Job Grant • New Landscape Designer manual

Third-party snow service contracts

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n a perfect world, all site owners would gladly accept the wording of the Landscape Ontario Snow and Ice Maintenance Contract. It contains previously reviewed text that helps properly insulate you from known issues regarding this type of contract. If you are not using this contract, there are many items that need to be reviewed from an insurance perspective, but two main ones stand out.

First, review the scope of work outlined in the contract, particularly if it is not a document created by you. You may be signing a contract, drafted by the site owner, that lays out a criteria specific to their service requirements — a criteria that you may not be able to meet. If for example their scope of work includes language such as maintenance of “bare pavement at all times” or “parking lots and walkways will at all times be clear of ice and snow,” then you have Continued on page 9...

landscape saskatchewan

ASSOCIATION NEWS EXECUTIVE BOARD:

President Past President First Vice President Second Vice President

Landscape Canada Chair

Member Services & Insurance Chair

Rene Thiebaud, CLP - ON Christene LeVatte, CLP - NS Bruce Hunter, CLT, CLD, CLP - BC Gerald Boot, CLP - ON

Treasurer Phil Paxton, CLT, CLP - AB

DIRECTORS: BCLNA Representative Michael Kato - BC Landscape AB Representative Anita Heuver - AB Landscape SK Representative Aaron Krahn - SK Landscape MB Representative David Hinton, CLP - MB Landscape ON Representative Alan White - ON Landscape NL Representative Krista Russell - NL Landscape NS Representative Robin Godfrey - NS Landscape NB/PEI Kevin Nauss, CLP - NB Representative Human Resources Chair Harold Deenen, CLP - ON Public Relations Chair Bill Hardy, CLP - BC Research Chair Vic Krahn, CLT - SK Government Relations Chair Michael Murray - NL Garden Centres Canada Chair Anthony O’Neill - NL Professional Development Chair Jeff Foley, CLT, CLP - BC Growers Canada Chair John Byland - BC

STAFF: Executive Director Victor Santacruz, CAE, CLP victor@cnla-acpp.ca Executive Assistant Cheryl Gall cheryl@cnla-acpp.ca Growers Manager Rita Weerdenburg rita@cnla-acpp.ca Professional Development & Julia Ricottone, EP Commodities Manager julia@cnla-acpp.ca Member Services & Rebecca Doutre, CAE Government Relations Manager rebecca@cnla-acpp.ca Director of Human Resource Sally Harvey, CLT, CLP Strategy sally@cnla-acpp.ca Industry Human Resource Stacey Porter Coordinator stacey@cnla-acpp.ca Certification (East) Claudia Santos & Commodities Coordinator claudia@cnla-acpp.ca Certification (West) Colin Vince & Apprenticeship Coordinator colin@cnla-acpp.ca Member Programs Coordinator & Christine Finn Landscape NL Executive Director christine@cnla-acpp.ca Member Services & Chelsea Ten Broeck Commodities Coordinator chelsea@cnla-acpp.ca Communications Specialist Anne Bowering anne@cnla-acpp.ca Minor Use/IPM Coordinator Peter Isaacson, B.Sc., MPM peter@cnla-acpp.ca

Letter from the President

s CNLA’s newly inducted President, I want to take this opportunity to thank the thousands of dedicated members that make up our nine provincial associations. Your commitment to the industry is what brings us success year after year. This year marks the beginning of a new two-year term on the CNLA Executive Committee. As such, after ten years on the Executive, Bill Stensson has completed his service. The association is indebted to Bill for his dedication to the industry and his guidance. I would also like to thank Christene LeVatte for her time as President at CNLA. Her focused leadership and vision led to many industry advancements during her two-year term. Bill and Christene are exemplary figures in our industry, setting the standard for what it means to be a great leader. Finally, I would like to thank the CNLA staff for their hard work in making our ideas a reality. Together, we are all working towards a prosperous, professional and ethical industry. 2014 was a great year for CNLA and our industry as a whole. We passed the 1000 mark on the number of Landscape Industry Certified individuals in Canada; a Canadian nursery received fourth place in the world at the AIPH International Grower of the Year competition; the Harper government invested $1.4 million into CNLA and Vineland Research and Innovation Centre’s hardy rose breeding program; as well as a successful National Occupational Analysis was completed for the Landscape Horticulturist designation in the Red Seal standard. These are just a few of the successes achieved by members this past year, with many projects to look forward to in 2015. With Canada’s 150th anniversary only two years away, CNLA wants to show the world that the landscape industry in Canada is the benchmark for global standards and innovation. The association will be hosting two high profile international events: the 2016 AIPH Green City Conference in

Vancouver, British Columbia and the 2017 International Garden Centre Association Congress in Ontario. Hundreds of international delegates will be coming to Canada to be inspired. If you are interested in these events, now is the time to get involved! CNLA continues to streamline its efforts in order to best serve our members. As such, each committee has been asked to review or create its strategic plan for the next three to five years. This process will be finished in 2015, setting a clear direction for association staff and volunteers. As well, the Executive committee met this past January to review the tactical plan for the entire association, which redefined our priorities and set firm deliverables. The priorities are: training, human resources, revenue generation for the association, public relations and government relations. CNLA will regularly update the membership on the progress of these priorities; stay tuned to future publications. As training was listed top among our priorities, the Certification committee was expanded to include apprenticeship. The newly developed Professional Development committee will ensure that specifications for journeypersons are consistent provincially and nationally. They will work closely with the Human Resources committee to bring members the resources they need to hire and train apprentices. If there are issues or initiatives that you want to bring forward to the association, I strongly recommend that you get involved in your provincial association. Your local staff work diligently to provide your business with the tools it needs to succeed, including networking events, training sessions, government lobbying and more. Get plugged in by connecting with us on social media, reading the e-newsletters and attending events. I am looking forward to a busy year, with more good news stories for the industry. Have a great start to the season! Sincerely,

Rene Thiebaud, CLP CNLA President

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@cnla-acpp.ca| www.cnla-acpp.ca

ASSOCIATION NEWS promotes our industry to the public. Below are just a few of the activities that this worthy association is working on:

Bill Stensson and Christene LeVatte, CLP

New term for CNLA Executive committee

he 2015 CNLA Winter Board Meetings marked the beginning of a new two-year term for the CNLA Executives. After ten years on the CNLA Executive committee, Bill Stensson, of Sheridan Nurseries, completed his term. CNLA staff and volunteers extend their sincere thanks to Bill, who has been a mentor for many on the board and has provided valuable direction to the association over the years. Christene LeVatte (Highland Landscapes for Lifestyle, NS) completed her two-year term as President, passing the gavel to Rene Thiebaud (OGS Landscape Services, ON). Bruce Hunter (Hunter Landscape Design, BC) is now First Vice President. Gerald Boot (Boot’s Landscaping and Maintenance, ON) remains as Second Vice President. And Phil Paxton (Alpha Better Group, AB) joined the Executive as Treasurer.

Garden Days The Garden Days Committee is already working on promotion for the 2015 events. Including, close cooperation with CNLA and Communities in Bloom. Many municipalities are getting involved by declaring their own municipal Garden Days. The council is currently working on a private members bill for a National Garden Day. Garden Days takes place June 19 to 21.

Garden Tourism Conference Happening in March, this is the only North American conference of its type. The Canadian Garden Tourism Awards will be announced, along with a great line-up of conference speakers. Canada’s Garden Route The one-stop online listing of all of Canada’s garden experiences. All CNLA garden centre members receive a free listing if they opt-in. To find out more about the Council and its activities, visit www.gardencouncil.ca

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streamline jobs

GROW profit

As mentioned above, these volunteers commit ten years to the Executive committee, along with countless hours of their time. It is their passion and vision that truly sets the direction of the association. To learn more about CNLA’s Board of Directors, visit www.cnla-acpp.ca/ cnlaboard

Update on the Canadian Garden Council

his year, CNLA has invested in the Canadian Garden Council (CGC), which is made up of public and botanical gardens across the country. The CGC diligently

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ASSOCIATION NEWS COHA is a strategic alliance of three organizations: the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association, the Fédération Interdisciplinaire de l’Horticulture Ornementale du Québec and Flowers Canada Growers, representing the Canadian ornamental horticulture sector from coast to coast. COHA represents over $14.4 billion in economic impact to the Canadian economy and the creation of more than 132,000 full time equivalent jobs for Canadians. Ornamental horticulture generated in excess of $850 million in end-user taxes (PST & GST) in 2007.

Never Alone Rose takes the stage

hile the Never Alone Rose was the new kid on the block at the 2014 pre-Grey Cup event, the CFL Alumni legends introduced it as one of their own. The Legends Luncheon, with nearly 1000 attendees, was the first major event showcasing the partnership between the CFL Alumni Association, the Never Alone Foundation and the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association. The Never Alone Rose is a release from the Canadian breeding program and will be sold across Canada in garden centres this spring, with a dollar from each sale going toward the Never Alone Foundation’s work of supporting families facing cancer. Dave Black, a former All-star linesman with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and co-chair of the Never Alone Foundation, spoke at the luncheon about the importance of the CFL Alumni getting behind the cause. “We all have someone we know who has faced cancer -- we can make a real difference by helping to promote the Never Alone rose program. Let’s make it happen.“ DeVonne Friesen of Van Belle Nursery spoke on behalf of CNLA about the program and how the CFL Alumni are getting involved. “It was a big stage for the Never Alone Rose, and I think the promotional support from the CFL Alumni will give this great new rose a unique boost,” said Friesen. “We have over 20 CFL Alumni players who have agreed to promote the rose and the cause

at garden centres this spring -- it’s going to create a lot of buzz and excitement at the these garden centres and wherever the Never Alone Rose is sold.” The CFL Alumni’s ‘Man of the Year’, Lui Passaglia, also gave a heartfelt charge to his fellow alumni about the importance of supporting the Never Alone Foundation’s work. Passaglia graciously accepted the award, and relayed his own battle with cancer. “When you first hear it, it’s a devastating word, but it’s not a devastating word anymore,” he said. “With friends behind you, family behind, and the belief that you can beat it, it makes it a whole lot easier.” To learn more about the Never Alone Rose program, visit www.neveralonefoundation. ca/never-alone-rose

“We believe CFA plays an important national role in developing and advancing farm policy,” said COHA President Michael Murray, “Being at the table was an important choice for our sector. The CFA platform will be a great place for us to connect with stakeholders in the industry and decision makers to complement our work on behalf of the ornamental horticulture industry. We need to work together for the betterment and continued success of the agricultural sector as a whole. We anticipate a fruitful 2015!”

Construction underway for the new Atlantic Centre for Landscape Excellence

he Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) proudly welcomes its newest member. The Canadian Ornamental Horticulture Alliance (COHA) has joined the CFA - Canada’s largest national general farm organization.

fter many years of planning, the highly anticipated Atlantic Centre for Landscape Excellence (ACLE) is under construction on the Dalhousie Faculty Agriculture campus in Nova Scotia. This will be the facility to lead the education and training of well-prepared horticulture tradespeople. The goal is to construct a financially and environmentally sustainable low-tech space that will house a variety of education, research, student, industry and community programs. This centre is an answer to the increasing need for certified landscape technicians.

“The CFA prides itself in working hard to represent the interests of all producers from all commodities in all parts of Canada. The Canadian Ornamental Horticulture Alliance will be a valuable voice around our table. We particularly look forward to working together on labour issues and environment policy,” said Ron Bonnett, CFA President.

The Dalhousie University Faculty of Agriculture has always been a vital partner with the landscape horticulture industry in meeting the growing demand for qualified landscape horticulture professionals. They have already made changes to the curriculum and course content to ensure that certification requirements of CNLA

COHA teams up with CFA

ASSOCIATION NEWS are being communicated and used as a minimum benchmark in their efforts. Many partners from across the industry have made financial contributions to make this building a reality. The main stakeholders in this project are Landscape Nova Scotia, Landscape New Brunswick, Landscape Newfoundland and Labrador, the Atlantic Region Certification Committee, CNLA and the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture, in partnership with Dalhousie University Faculty of Agriculture. The brand-new indoor learning environment will provide students with a space to train during industry downtime; therefore, allowing more people to participate. The facility is expected to open this spring.

Canadian Common Ground Alliance Best Practices

t the second annual Damage Prevention Symposium, the Canadian Common Ground Alliance (CCGA) released its first ever set of Harmonized Canadian Best Practices, CCGA Best Practices, Volume 1.0. Using the ORCGA’s Best Practices, Version 8.0 as a base document, work began on this initiative in 2013 with a formal agreement reached in September, 2014. This was a coordinated effort involving all seven CCGA Regional Partners.

offices based on the winning projects from the previous year’s provincial awards ceremonies. This year’s awards include the Caterpillar National Awards of Landscape Excellence for Commercial and Residential Construction; the DynaSCAPE National Award of Landscape Excellence for Design; National Awards of Landscape Excellence for Commercial and Residential Maintenance; the Green for Life Community Award; the Grower of the Year Award and the Garden Centre of the Year Award.

across the country, but also provides a great opportunity to network with fellow industry leaders and suppliers. Tickets will be available this spring. CNLA is also looking for sponsors for the various awards. If you are a supplier to the industry, there is no better way to have your message heard than through targeted sponsorship. Check out www.cnla-acpp.ca/advertising and have your message heard!

The evening not only offers a chance to view the best of the best landscape projects

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What happened to the National Awards of Landscape Excellence?

ondering what happened to the amazing projects that are usually featured in our Winter Newsbrief? The National Awards of Landscape Excellence have been moved from the winter CNLA Board of Directors meeting to the summer meetings. That means that the 2015 awards ceremony and gala will take place on August 19th, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Entrants are submitted into the national awards by the nine provincial association

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Scan for offer details. Visit CatResourceCenter.com/CNLA to download your discount card. *To redeem your credit: This card must be presented to your local Cat dealer at time of quote. This offer applies to new Cat machines and select new Work Tool attachments purchased by Canadian Nursery Landscape Association members before December 31, 2014. Limit of one credit per new Cat machine and one credit per new Work Tool purchased. Offer available on new quotes only and may be combined with published Caterpillar Building Construction Product Division U.S. and Canadian national offers only. Contact your local dealer for details and to see the complete discount pricing available per model. Subject to credit approval. Valid only at Cat dealer locations in the U.S. and Canada. Subject to change without prior notice. Contact membershipservices@cnla-acpp.ca or call 1-888-446-3499 for a CNLA membership confirmation letter. © 2014 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, BUILT FOR IT, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow,” the “Power Edge” trade dress as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

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7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | Toll Free: 1-888-446-3499 | Toll Free Fax: 1-866-833-8603 | Email: info@cnla-acpp.ca | www.cnla-acpp.ca

10/23/14 8:59 AM

INDUSTRY NEWS

Celebrating 50 years of horticulture at Olds College By: Kelly Storm

014 was a special year for Olds College and the Horticulture industry. It commemorated 50 years since the first horticulture programing was offered at the college. In 1959, informal discussions were underway with University of Alberta and industry representatives about the need for skilled assistants in the industry of horticulture. A two year general diploma was eventually recommended, curriculum developed, and Olds College was chosen to run the very first horticulture program in Western Canada. Prior to this, horticulture studies had been taught to every agriculture and home economics student since Olds College opened in 1913. Indeed, growing a garden, canning and preserving in those days was a necessary part of life. But by the 1960’s, Alberta’s horticulture industry was expanding and becoming more specialized, producing many ornamental and food crops. Parks, municipalities and commercial landscapers were servicing an ever growing demand for professionally manicured areas. And so, in the fall of 1963, B.J. (Buck) Godwin arrived from Vermillion School (now Lakeland College) to teach twelve hand selected horticulture students. Two significant facts: one, that Buck arrived a mere two days before the students, and two, it had been made very clear that Buck was only on loan to Olds College. Eventually, the principal of Vermillion School released him to stay on at Olds full time. In Buck’s own words he described the program as, “a personal, practical education with a balance of academic theory and day-to-day hands-on experience”. This philosophy stands true 50 years later! By 1967 it had been renamed Horticulture Technology and numbers had increased

program in 2004; Integrated Pest Management, Interior Plantscape, Arboriculture and Horticulture Retail Management. As well, in 1996, when the Alberta government announced the introduction of Applied Degrees, Horticulture was the first program at Olds College to jump on board. As a result you could accomplish a BAHT, Bachelor of Applied Horticulture Field Nursery Class with Buck Godwin 1965 (Olds College) Technology, through this four year program (now renamed the Bachelor of Applied Science (Golf Course to 20 first year students. A decade later, Management and Horticulture majors). by 1977, Horticulture was producing more graduates than any other department on The beautiful BMO (Bank of Montreal) campus. The burgeoning industry scooped Landscape Pavilion was erected in 1996 up all the graduates Olds College could and expanded in 2011, thanks to generous produce. donations and encouragement from industry to provide dedicated lab space A massive industry survey in 1979 showed for Arboriculture, Irrigation and Landscape that 85% of all Horticulture alumni were construction all through the winter months. still employed in their discipline. It became The grounds of Olds College have always clear more specialized training was needed been an integral part of Horticulture labs, for the still expanding industry. A one-year and in 2002, The Honourable Lois Hole Commercial Floristry certificate had long cut the ribbon to officially open the Olds since been in place to address the training College Botanic Garden and in 2012 the needs of the Floriculture segment. So Botanic Gardens Phase III and Treatment the diploma program decided to offer a Wetlands were completed. general first year, with the ability to major in Ornamental or Production horticulture by Of course, the Olds College Continuing the second year. Education department has a rich history Alberta Manpower and industry representatives made history again. This time by making Landscape Gardener an official trade in 1984; by 1985 the first class of Landscape Gardener apprentices in Canada began their studies at Olds College. The horticulture department continued graduating more students than anywhere on campus. In fact, over 125 graduates each year from horticulture programs at its peak. To accommodate all these students, the horticulture department moved into the beautiful Land Sciences Centre in 1990, complete with an atrium and comprehensive herbarium and 1600 sq. feet of greenhouse space. To satisfy this many-faceted industry, majors in the diploma program have come, gone – or stayed! Including Turf Management, which went on to become an independent

Plant Sciences Class 1969 (Olds College)

with Horticulture, as well. University of Guelph Horticulture correspondence courses were offered through Olds College, until 1995. It then morphed into the Prairie Horticulture Certificate offered in conjunction with Assiniboine College, University of Saskatchewan and University of Manitoba. Hort Week has been delivering myriad horticulture and floriculture courses to industry and hobby gardeners for nearly 50 years.

INDUSTRY NEWS And so, what does the future hold? A brand new chapter in the Olds College horticulture story will begin this fall. The Landscape Gardener Apprenticeship Program has joined the School of Trades and Technology, and the Turf and Horticulture diplomas have undergone a major transformation, emerging as a block style program where each course will run continuously for 3.5 weeks, one course at a time complimented with online courses. Staggered arrival dates allow for students to be in their workplaces for a longer duration to complete field study and directed field study requirements as well as providing employers with student skills for the industry season. This new schedule will allow students to enroll in one individual class if they wish, or complete a one year certificate, two year diploma, or achieve their Bachelor of Applied Science Degree.

Credit card acceptance fee reductions announced

n November, the Government of Canada reached agreements with both Visa and MasterCard that resulted in the reduction in the interchange fees that small business owners pay to accept credit cards. Rates will drop from current levels to an average of 1.5% and remain there for a period of at least five years. According to a release by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), this announcement should “put an end to the regular fee hikes and ever-higher levels of premium cards.” Similarly, the Retail Council of Canada (RCC) stated that making interchange rates more competitive is an important step forward and “will benefit both retailers and Canadian consumers.” CFIB and RCC note that while this is a significant first step, both associations will continue to encourage further reductions and fairness in the payments industry. CNLA members receive some of the best merchant processing rates available through Chase Paymentech. Making the switch is easy! Contact our Member Services Team for details.

the watershed, while still mitigating flood, drought and water quality concerns. It is recognizing that development and green space go hand in hand, an outlook that can have positive impacts on the landscape industry.

Development and green spaces Attitudes are slowly changing

limate change is causing our cities to re-think how they deal with flooding, droughts and other extreme weather events. In recent years, major floods have impacted cities across the country. Many cities are starting to recognize the importance of green space in their community to mitigate the impacts of a changing climate – bringing some justification to the fact that our industry is part of the solution. The Calgary Herald recently reported on a study that advised the Government of Alberta on how to mitigate future floods and manage watersheds. The study suggests that using the natural landscape and built infrastructure together will protect

There are numerous other studies that are highlighting the benefits green space can add to a city. These include the water management benefits mentioned above, but also air quality, and health and safety for residents. Think about these benefits when speaking about your own business and the projects you work on. CNLA and its provincial associations continue to connect with municipalities and encourage living green infrastructure and low impact development strategies to help cities cope with extreme weather events. Although there are many factors involved in these mitigation efforts, the landscape industry plays an important part in addressing the issues. This messaging is being incorporated into our review of the National Master Specifications and is top of mind when we are speaking with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. For the article cited above, please visit: Room for the river report moves focus beyond big infrastructure Colette Derworiz, Calgary Herald: January 12, ‘15 http://calgaryherald.com/news/local-news/ room-for-the-river-report

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Dear CNLA Members, As President of CFIB, I am proud to help launch and support our partnership agreement with the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association. CFIB’s partnership was developed with your head office leadership to improve the bottom line of your business. We can do that in three important ways: 1. Our Business Resources Counsellors in every province should be your first call when you have questions or dealings or challenges with any government program, department or inspectors. With the complexity of Employment Standards compliance requirements, our Business Counsellors can also act as your informal HR Department. http://www.cfib-‐fcei.ca/english/business-‐support/canada.html 2. CFIB is the largest lobby group for independent business in Canada. We will strengthen the impact that independent nursery and landscaping companies can have on the laws that affect your business by growing CFIB’s membership in your sector. In addition to our battles with government on taxes and regulations, we fight large oligopolies like credit card companies and banks on their unfair fees for small business owners. 3. CFIB has a dedicated team devoted to leveraging our 109,000 members to negotiate the best rates on a wide variety of products and services. Once you start using our Privilege Programs, you’ll no longer need to constantly search for better rates; we’re doing that already! To review the ways you can save, visit our website at http://www.cfib-‐fcei.ca/english/privilege-‐programs/canada.html To access these benefits you do need to be a member of CFIB. Our partnership with the CNLA has established a special reduced fee for CNLA members. If you are not currently a CFIB member, go to the CNLA sign-‐up page at www.cfib.ca/cnla. If you’d like more information, call CNLA’s contact at CFIB, Richard DeMarco, at 1-‐800-‐667-‐3436 (Extension 318) I look forward to welcoming you to CFIB!

Dan Kelly President and Chief Executive Officer Président et chef de la direction www.cfib.ca / www.fcei.ca

Member Services Coming soon: March 2015 Legal Expense Insurance

he CNLA in collaboration with My Generation Insurance is excited to offer members of each provincial landscape association Legal Expense Insurance. Members will be invited to purchase insurance through Group Bid Protect’s website scheduled to be launched March 1, 2015, where “More Bids, means More Savings”. You will have the opportunity to choose how much you are willing to pay for your insurance. The more members that join in, the more everyone saves! The policy highlights include: • Provides your business with up to $1,000,000 in legal expense coverage. • Defend or pursue your legal rights without worrying about Lawyer fee’s. • Legal Assistance with Contract Disputes and Debt Recovery! This product is designed to give you the confidence and peace of mind to focus on what matters most – managing and growing your business!

customer service, or safe driving practices, CNLA has you covered. The association has a number of partnerships with training companies that offer both online and manual based training for staff. Prefer to teach your team yourself? No problem! CNLA also has handy training resources designed for on-the-job training. Find the right fit for your company on our website.

Isuzu Trucks

n the market for a new truck? Consider an Isuzu Truck, with up to $4,000 in savings available through CNLA. Members are encouraged to inform their fleet manager or fleet sales person that they are a member of the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association and are entitled to Competitive Assistance or Fleet Assistance. Find out more about this program online.

Free promotion

ho doesn’t like getting free promotion? CNLA’s program with casaGURU allows our landscape members to sign-up for a free business listing on its website AND its partner sites, including HGTV.ca. CNLA members are the only ones that will be listed under Landscape projects in the “Find A Pro” section of the HGTV website. Email cnla-offer@casaguru.com to get listed.

Fuel savings with Esso and Petro-Canada

pring is coming fast and that means that more landscape crews will be out on the roads. CNLA has two different fuel savings programs to save your company time and money. Both programs allow you to track usage and set limits to certain accounts. Cards come with PIN technology for added security. As well, the business plans save money at the pump with cents per litre discounts and percent off car washes. Apply online today on the CNLA website.

Industry Training

what is your service area?

id you know that you can list up to five postal codes for your business to increase your number of listings on the CNLA membership directory? The online member search pulls from the CNLA database based on a 100km radius from the postal code of the business address. However, with the option to list multiple postal codes you can ensure that your top service areas are included. Update your listing today by contacting CNLA or your provincial association office.

Snow Contracts continued from cover... agreed to do something under contract that you are unlikely to be able to uphold. This creates an immediate impairment to your ability to defend yourself in case of a dispute due to the fact that the service level is unattainable. By the wording of the contract, any time there is snow or ice covered pavement (a circumstance highly probable in Canada), then you have technically breached the terms of the contract. Second, review the Indemnification or Hold Harmless Clause, if there is one present in the contract. From an insurance and risk management perspective, the contract should not stipulate defense of claims regardless of negligence. This may lead to higher insurer costs as a result of defending more claims and ultimately higher insurance premiums due to losses. Please consult with a lawyer if you have concerns regarding the contract language. Maintaining up-to-date documentation at a jobsite such as logs, GPS reports, and weather reports will also help in the event of a claim. To establish contract certainty and minimize any negative impact on your insurance, you should review these contracts with your broker and insurer (prior to being signed). No one wants to be in a position in which their insurer is surprised to learn that they have been obliged to defend a third-party (your client) for terms present in a nonstandard contract. For more information, please contact Daniel Winstanley. He is a Client Executive with the Consumer Practice of Marsh Canada Limited. He can be contacted at daniel. winstanley@marsh.com or 416 349 4601. Marsh, a global leader in insurance broking and risk management, teams with its clients to define, design, and deliver innovative industry-specific solutions that help them protect their future and thrive. Marsh Canada Limited has 1,100 employees and offices in 13 cities across Canada.

hether you need your employees to know about WHIMIS, plantcare,

Garden Centres Canada Happy New Year! What ’s new for 2015?

promote all members under one umbrella to the public. It offers a unique opportunity for customers to give the gift of gardening, while allowing the recipient to shop at the store of their choice. We invite all garden centres to accept the cards and provide yet another option for customers who visit your store. We hope that you will take advantage of this opportunity and accept the cards at your store. To opt-in, please visit www.gardengiftcard.ca.

Better than a customer comment card

Photo courtesy of The Landmark Group Award Winning Project: ‘Fire On Water’

arden Media Group has released its 2015 Trends Report, which highlights key trends that will shift the industry this year. Although every store is different, some of the trends they identify might help you attract new customers to your garden centre. Who is spending more on plants and garden products each year? Milennials, especially men. This group, aged 18-35, makes up 25% of the population and should be a key customer to focus on for 2015. Consider the city dweller’s needs. Urban gardening and urban farming are becoming more prominent. Container gardens are expected to be bigger than ever in 2015, suiting those condo and apartment dwellers. People are moving around more often and they want to take their gardens with them. Think about options that have moveable parts (wheels, handles, etc.). Extended Living Space. Gardens are becoming entertainment spaces that show off someone’s personality. Look at trending colour palettes and products that will make entertaining easy. Provide ready-made containers and decorative features that will quickly revamp an outdoor space before a party. For the full Garden Trends Report, please visit www.gardenmediagroup.com/trendspage

Accept the Garden Centres Canada Gift Card at your store

arden Centres Canada has launched a National Gift Card program that is exclusive to members. These gift cards are easy to use - they are purchased by customers online and sent electronically to the recipient’s smart phone (or email address). They are processed through the MasterCard network and from the merchant’s perspective, they are no different than accepting a credit card. Merchants must opt-in to accept the cards and terminals are set up through a quick phone call. There is no cost to opt-in and merchants will be charged a transaction fee when redeeming the cards. This fee is 0.5% lower than your normal MasterCard processing rate. Although this is not intended to replace your current gift card program, the electronic cards offer another option to your customers and an opportunity to attract more tech-savvy customers who rely heavily on their smart devices. This is a major step for Garden Centres Canada to unite the membership and

o you rely on your customers to give you feedback on your garden centre? While some comments can be constructive, they do not provide solutions or next steps for you to implement. That is why Garden Centres Canada has developed two different options for you to gain valuable feedback at your store. These programs offer direction on what you can do to improve today and over the long run. Start with a Garden Centre Assessment – a low cost option that can give you a snapshot of what you are doing well and areas that could use more attention. This program uses reviewers from across Canada who have experience in the industry. Reviewers will go through a checklist as they walk through your store and then sit down with you and review any comments they have. Reviewers will look at the overall appearance of your store, staff, training, marketing and much more. Assessments can happen at any time of the year and you can choose the reviewer you want to work with. For a more detailed review, consider signing up for a Garden Centre Inspection, taking place in June 2015. The Garden Centre Inspection Program has been available to Canadian garden centres since 2009 and offers a critical, third party look at your operations. Eve Tigwell, a consultant from the UK, is contracted to bring her expertise to Canada. The inspection process includes Eve walking through your store, looking at every detail, taking photos, making notes and tabulating a score for the store. Afterward, she will

meet with the management team to go over what works, what doesn’t work and come up with solutions for problem areas. Eve provides each store with a complete report and photo library, with a to-do list that your team can work on over time.

their store. Unique products, innovation and technology often provide the most value to attendees. Garden Centres Canada is excited to show the world what our members are doing to succeed and offer some good Canadian hospitality!

As an owner, you are often consumed in your own store and it can be difficult to determine where you can improve and what you should do first. Bringing in an outside expert can help get you on track and improve your bottom line over the long run. For more information, please visit www. gardencentrescanada.com and take a look at the Business Improvement Resources or contact the CNLA office.

Congress also includes a study tour, specially designed for the younger generation (under 40). This group participates in more active discussions and analysis during the tour. Their program is more structured to provide greater interaction and learning over the course of the week.

The world is coming to Canada in 2017

hat better way to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday than showing over 200 garden centre owners from around the world what the industry in Canada has to offer? Canada will be hosting the 2017 International Garden Centre Association (IGCA) congress in the Toronto-Niagara region in September 2017. IGCA Congress consists of a five-day tour, showcasing garden centres, nurseries, and culture in a different country each year. Canada may not have the biggest garden centres in the world, but we definitely have some unique features to showcase and that is what delegates want to see. Delegates are garden centre owners and managers who want to learn new things and bring ideas back that they can use at

An organizing committee is looking at the many potential stops in the Toronto-Niagara area and is looking for support of the industry in the area. There are a number of fantastic garden centres, nurseries and gardens that could be included on the tour, and if you would like to be one of the stops, please let us know. Committee members, bus leaders, and other volunteers will be needed as well. Contact Julia Ricottone at the CNLA office for more information at julia@cnla-acpp.ca, 1-888-446-3499 x 8615.

available online, or you can fill out a few questions at a time each month in the e-news. Learn more about your fellow GCC independent garden centres.

63% of respondents work more than 50 hours per week at their store

Overtime pay/Flex hours and Pension plan/ Vacation pay were the top sited employee performance incentives

Annuals were the most sold product category

74% see the weather as a major threat

Interested in seeing what the Congress is like? Join IGCA in Denmark this August to experience it for yourself. Visit igccdenmark2015.org for more details.

Only 14% offer online purchases through their websites

GCC survey results are in!

he results of the 2013 Garden Centres Canada survey are in! Thank you to all the members that provided their information, contributing to this national benchmarking effort. The 2014 survey is

95% use social media

Are we landing in your inbox?

The Canadian contingent at IGCC 2014 in Ireland

mail helps you out by sorting through your priority and promotional mail, placing each in a seperate inbox before you even read it! While this is handy in many cases, it may cause you to miss out on important mail, like the GCC e-News! Make sure that we land in your inbox by selecting the “priority” tag on your email. Not receiving the e-news? Email Julia and let us know!

Win an ipad mini

Growers Canada

Cities Alive 2014 Award Winner

NLA extends congratulations to Dr. Youbin Zheng and his University of Guelph Green Roof Research team for winning the Cities Alive 2014 Research Award for their research on green roof sedum plant production and maintenance. According to Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (the not-for-profit association behind the award) noted that the team’s article ‘Optimal Growing Substrate pH For Five Sedum Species’, is “the most recent piece of forward-thinking research published.”

Developing a National Occupational Standard for the nursery sector

dedicated group of nursery professionals from across Canada convened for an intensive all-day session to share their expertise for the development of a National Occupational Standard (NOS) for the nursery sector. This facilitated session was an important first step towards the development of a certified nursery worker program as part of the Landscape Industry Certified suite of programs which currently exist for the landscape construction, landscape maintenance, design and retail garden centre sectors of the industry. With financial support from Human Resource and Skills Development Canada’s Sectoral Initiatives Program, the objective of the nursery worker certification project is to develop the required training and testing programs to ensure a minimum standard of competency required by nursery technicians in today’s complex production sector. The group’s initial task was to determine the level of worker skill most needed by the nursery sector. It was generally accepted that the largest skill gap within the sector was to find nursery workers in the low-tomiddle management area, as low skill tasks are adequately met through the sector’s access to the offshore worker program. The standard-setting day was held on December 11th in BC under the capable guidance of Kwantlen College’s

from New York to British Columbia and from Ontario to Florida. “Now that Plant Watch has completed a fourth year of inspections, it is obvious there is greater industry acceptance of brand compliance and plant patent law. The vast majority of growers cooperate with the inspectors. We appreciate all the growers who take Dr. Youbin Zheng and his award winning team the time to become familiar with brand requirements and follow the Bruce McTavish as the facilitator and rules.” said Natalia Hamill, Brand & Business HortEducation BC’s program manager Development Manager at Bailey Nurseries. Annika Kristensen. CNLA extends its sincere thanks to the following for taking time away from their businesses to provide their considerable expertise on behalf of the Canadian nursery sector:

• Rob Albrecht, John’s Nurseries, ON • Devon Beck, Parkland Nurseries, AB • Steven Folkerts, Linnaea Nurseries, BC • Arnold Heuver, Heuver Consulting, AB • Adam Kobes, Kobes Nurseries, ON • Jason Levelton, East Richmond Nurseries, BC

• Ashleigh Munroe, Kiwi Nurseries, AB • Andrew Ronald, Jeffries Nurseries, MB • Nick Winkelmolen, Winkelmolen Nurseries, ON

Plant Watch® nursery inspections expand range

roven Winners® ColorChoice®, Encore® Azaleas, Endless Summer Collection®, First Editions®, The Knock Out® Family of Roses, Drift® Roses, Sunset Western Garden Collection™ and Southern Living® Plant Collection are pleased with the results from the Plant Watch® nursery inspection program which expanded into Canada in 2014. The Plant Watch® program has completed another successful year of protecting plant patents, Plant Breeders’ Rights (PBR) and branded programs. In 2014, over 300 inspections were carried out

Nurseries across the U.S. and Canada have undergone an inspection by seasoned Plant Watch® representatives to document to what degree growers respect patents, PBR’s and trademarks. It’s well known how expensive it is to establish a plant brand in our industry. Growers who comply with patent, PBR and branding requirements are at a disadvantage when infringers undercut prices. According to Plant Watch® Executive Director, Sylvia Mosterman, “Our industry has taken a leap forward by putting new varieties in front of consumers with professional marketing. Consumer excitement grows for new varieties from trusted brand names. Protecting the investment brand owners make in marketing and product development with nursery inspections makes it fairer for growers who are playing by the rules and ultimately benefits the consumer.” Nurseries found to be non-compliant are assessed a significant fine based on the number of unauthorized plants discovered, and the destruction of those plants is required. Growers are reminded that varieties covered by plant patents and Plant Breeders’ Rights require permission to propagate. And the use of trade names such as Wine & Roses® weigela and The Knock Out® rose is protected. Be responsible. Ask before you propagate or use a trademark!

Landscape Canada Landscape Canada provides input to National Master Specifications

he Landscape Canada Committee is currently conducting its third review of the National Master Specification’s landscape industry relevant sections. The National Master Specifications is a reference document that serves as a framework for writing construction and renovation contract documents. Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC), owns NMS and coordinates its review through standards organizations and the construction industry. This document is used by tendering authorities in government, public organizations and the private sector. The last review by LCC was in 2010 and included eleven sections with the main focus being the inclusion of contractor qualifications, product and installation innovation and the updating of the Canadian Standards for Nursery Stock reference to the 8th Edition. This most recent review includes fourteen landscape sections with the addition of sections concerning LEED, environmental procedures, unit paving and tree pruning and preservation. The focus for this NMS review will be to update the Contractor’s Qualification clause to include the Journeyperson/Red Seal Certified and to cross reference technical standards and verbiage for green infrastructure product and service to support the recent and proposed changes to the Red Seal Landscape Horticulturist NOA. Green infrastructure typically includes such environmental solutions as bio-swales, green roofs, living walls, permeable paving and tree planting. This initiative, as part of the Landscape Canada Tactical Plan, works toward ensuring that tendering authorities, owners, landscape architects and allied trades always have a current and aligned industry best practices base from which to specify projects that include our product and services.

Sample Contractor Qualification for Section 32 93 10 Trees, Shrubs and Groundcover Planting: PART 3 – EXECUTION 3.1 General .1 The Landscape Contractor shall be a Member in Good Standing of <insert Provincial Trade Association here>. .2 All planting to be done under the on-site supervision of a Landscape Horticulturist Technician Journeyperson, CLT ‘Softscape Installation’ Technician or Equivalent. .3 All maintenance to be done under the on-site supervision of a Landscape Horticulturist Technician Journeyperson, CLT ‘Ornamental Maintenance’ Technician or Equivalent. .4 Proof of Qualification(s) to be submitted with Tender Document. A note will be added to the specification that all tendering authorities can contact the CNLA office for definition of equivalency and or to approve equivalency. Landscape Canada would like to thank Stan Kochanoff, Phil Paxton, Cable Baker, Christene LeVatte, David Stenhouse, Peter Guinane, and Barry Paxton for their work on this important industry review process.

LCC Survey results NOW AVAILABLE

andscape Canada’s survey for the 2013 year had close to 100 respondents, and provides us with a basis for what the industry in Canada looks like. A few key points are outlined here. For the full report, please visit www.cnla-acpp.ca. Recruiting and retaining skilled and unskilled labour continues to be the biggest challenge. CNLA recognizes this, and as a major priority, CNLA’s Human Resources Committee is focusing on finding sustainable models of accessing temporary foreign workers, while at the same time finding ways to attract youth to the industry. Word of mouth is the best way to recruit new staff and also remains the best way to gain new customers and retain

existing customers, yet companies are recognizing the importance of having an online presence to raise the profile of their business. Respondents had mixed reviews about the public image of the industry. 40% saw a positive public image, 28% thought it was poor and 23% think it needs improvement. CNLA’s Public Relations Committee has supported a number of efforts to raise the profile of the industry and individual members are also doing this on their own. About half of respondents agree that the best ways to create a positive image for their firm is by using professional uniforms, logos and equipment. The majority of employers encourage training and certification for their employees. 77% will pay for their education and travel to/from courses or exams. 71% will offer staff a pay raise once a certification is earned, and 43% of employers will pay for tuition while an employee is enrolled in an apprenticeship program. Did you know that employers are eligible for a tax credit for each eligible apprentice and the employee is also eligible for up to $2000 in grants once they complete the program? Visit the Human Resources section on the CNLA website for more details. The survey for the 2014 year is now open for responses. Results are more valuable as more people answer the survey, so we are counting on your responses! CNLA is continually seeking data about our industry. The results of an industry wage survey will be available this spring and will provide you with detailed wage information for specific jobs and regions. More information will be available in future communications.

Fill out the 2014 LCC Survey!

www.cnla-acpp.ca/lccsurvey

Professional Development A new direction for Certification

t the tactical plan meeting held by the CNLA Executive this past January, it was decided that the Certification committee be redefined to cover a broader area. As a result, the committee will act under the title Professional Development, with the hopes of increasing the number of certified, individuals, journeypersons and apprentices. A strategic meeting will be held in the spring to develop a plan for the committee moving forward. The Professional Development committee will work closely with the Human Resources committee to ensure that members have easy access to information on HR issues relating to training, apprenticeship, certification, etc.

Making apprenticeship possible

mployers are essential to making apprenticeship a viable post-secondary pathway for today’s youth. They create opportunities and provide the vast majority of training by selecting a qualified mentor to oversee skills development. Employers can also make a big difference in whether apprentices achieve certification or fall short. While no two employers conduct their apprenticeship programs in quite the same way, there are some things successful employers consistently identify among their best practices. 1. A consistently positive work environment 2. Quality training from journeypersons 3. A wide variety of work experiences 4. A training plan that helps establish a career path 5. An opportunity to share ideas For more information on hiring an apprentice or becoming one, visit www.caf-fca.org

Human Resources Support

he CNLA Human Resources committee has launched a support section on the CNLA website. Updated frequently, you will find information on apprenticeship, the Canada Job Grant, government forms and statistics, as well as other helpful links. The committee has also gathered useful resources to help you navigate human resource topics, including TFWP, SAWP and FARMS. Below are some articles on hot HR topics today; more information is available at www.cnla-acpp.ca/humanresources Is your issue not listed online? Let us know which topic you would like more information on by contacting Stacey Porter, Human Resources Coordinator at stacey@ cnla-acpp.ca or 1-888-446-3499, x8660.

Use it or lose it! Canada Job Grant

he Canada Job Grant provides your business with funding to help train staff. As a business owner, you know what skills you and your team need to succeed. It is time to use this program for your existing and prospective staff! The Canada Job Grant provides up to $15,000 per person for training costs, with up to $10,000 available in federal contributions.

A success story: Recently, a member inquired about the minimum length required for training in order to still be eligible for the grant. The duration of the training must be limited to one year, beyond that another application is needed. However, little research could be found on the minimum length of the training, so we encouraged the member to apply, following the “don’t ask, don’t get” motto. After applying, this member received funding for their one day course! It is easy to apply online, visit http:// actionplan.gc.ca/en/initiative/canadajob-grant for more information specific to your province. Please note that applications are assessed on an individual basis, so there is no guarantee that training will be approved. However, CNLA strongly encourages members to apply.

International Experience Program

nternational Experience Canada (IEC) provides young individuals the opportunity to travel and work within Canada. IEC is available in countries that have a bilateral youth mobility arrangement in Canada. Check out this unique initiative at www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/iec

Submitting Records of Employment for apprentices

re you experiencing delays in your apprentices’ benefits? ESDC has posted helpful information which should help clear up any issues with ROEs that cause inordinate delays in benefits being received. Employers Submitting Records of Employment for apprentices Using the correct reason for issuing code on the Record of Employment (ROE) will help ensure the EI application process is not delayed. When your employee is leaving work for the sole purpose of attending full-time technical training, use Code J (apprentice training) in Block 16. If you issue a paper ROE, provide it to your employee as soon as possible after they have stopped working. Let them know they are required to provide a copy to Service Canada after applying for EI to complete the application process. If you issue an electronic ROE, let your employee know they are not required to submit a copy to Service Canada. The Supplemental Unemployment Benefit Plan The Supplemental Unemployment Benefit (SUB) Program allows employers to provide supplemental payment to claiments receiving Employment Insurance (EI) benefits during a period of temporary stoppage of work, training, illness, injury or quarantine. SUB plans must be registered with Service Canada, otherwise any amounts paid will be treated as earnings and may be deducted from the employee’s EI benefits.

landscape industry

certified

As an employer, you can use a SUB Plan to increase your employee’s weekly earnings during their periods of technical training. When you choose to use a SUB Plan you are supporting your apprentice through the completion of their technical training. Employees If you have been referred by your province or territory to attend full-time technical training (sometimes referred to as blockrelease training), you may be eligible to receive Employment Insurance (EI) benefits while unemployed and attending your course. Steps are available online, which will help guide you through the application process to allow for more efficient processing of your benefits. If you have lost your job through no fault of your own, and you are not attending fulltime technical training, visit the EI regular benefits page to apply for benefits. Find out more about the application process for employees by visiting the CNLA website.

New landscape designer manual with web portal

he new Landscape Designer manual by Landscape Ontario, CNLA and the Designer Committee has been released this year and is now available to the public. If you are a Landscape Designer and looking to continue your education and increase the respectability of the industry by becoming a Landscape Industry Certified Designer this manual is your first step towards that. The manual contains information on communication, landscape construction, design, grading and drainage, horticulture and proper practice. Additions have also been added into all areas in order to give candidates all the possible information that may come up on the CLD Test.

Landscape Ontario has also designed a new website that elaborates on the material within the manual. It provides proper examples of how to submit your portfolios once you have completed the written portion of the exam. Visit horttrades.com/ cldmanual with your username to sign in (usernames can be found on the inside front cover of the manual). If you are an owner of the original version of the test, email Sally Harvey at Landscape Ontario and she will provide a PDF version of the additions that have been made within the new manuals. Her email is sally@landscapeontario.com For any inquiries about the CLD manual or exam please contact Colin Vince at 1-888446-3499 ext. 8625 or colin@cnla-acpp.ca

Shine bright in an industry full of stars

f you are an owner, operator or crew leader of a landscape company, the Landscape Industry Certified Manager exam is a great way to distinguish yourself.

Recently Awarded Landscape Industry Certifications Landscape Designer Michelle Alkerton David Lara Masami Yamaguchi

ON ON ON

Technician - Hardscape Installation Gregory Ford PE Technician - Ornamental Maintenance Parghat Gopal NS Ryan Hunt PE Taylor Leard PE Mike Dean PE Technician - Softscape Installation Robert Beach NB Gregory Loner NS Taylor Leard PE *as of February 1, 2015

CERTIFICATION TEST DATES March 5

Winnipeg, MB

March 5

London, ON (written)

The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association and the Associated Landscape Contractors of America created the manager exam to provide competent individuals, who work in the landscape contracting business, the opportunity to shine bright in an industry full of stars.

March 19

Toronto, ON (written)

March 20

Winnipeg, MB (written)

March 24/25

Olds, AB

March 25

Surrey, BC (written)

March 25

Sussex, NB (written)

March 31

Edmonton, AB (written)

Having the Landscape Industry Certified Manager Certification can help your business in many ways. Your profitability can increase as you learn more efficient management techniques that will increase your bottom line. You can increase the status of your company by establishing a culture and expectation of professionalism. Leading by example will set your staff up for success. The manager study guides will help you know how to recruit and retain the best people for your company and how to produce the best product. As well, once you are certified, you can show off the landscape industry certified logo on all your gear and vehicles!

April 17

Winnipeg, MB (written)

April 24/25

Truro, NS

April 29

Surrey, BC (written)

April 29

Sussex, NB (written)

Stand out from the rest! Take the Landscape Industry Certified Manager Exam!

VERIFY YOUR INFORMATION Ensure that CNLA has your up-to-date contact details so that you do not miss out on important information regarding your certification. If you have moved, switched companies or updated your contact information recently, email certification@cnla-acpp.ca with the best way to contact you and we will update our records.

Project by: Paysagiste Northland

@ldscpcertified

Industry events NORTH AMERICA February 18-20: ISA Ontario Conference: Windsor, ON www.isaontario.com February 25-27: iLandscape: Schaumburg, IL www.ilandscapeshow.com February 26: Sustainable Urban Landscapes Symposium: Cincinnati, OH www.cincinnatizoo.org/events

STIHL BR 600 MAGNUM ®

Displacement 64.8 cc

Weight 9.8 kg (21.6 lb)

Power Output 3.0 kW

Sound Level 75 dB(A)

Air Velocity† 323 km/h (201 mph) Air Volume† 712 cfm (1210 m3/h)

Landscapers, city and municipal workers, and all professionals who clean the roads, walkways, lawns and parks of leaves and debris deserve our respect. And the best possible blower. The STIHL BR 600 MAGNUM® is an impressive example of when power meets comfort. Our top-performing backpack blower delivers powerful performance with optimal handling and comes with a dual-adjustable shoulder strap. It not only features the patented low-emission STIHL 4-MIX® engine but also encompasses a simplified starting procedure and produces fewer vibrations. Whether clearing grass cuttings in public parks, leaves from parking lots or refuse from entire stadiums - the STIHL BR 600 MAGNUM® allows you to get the job done quickly, efficiently and easily. Others have trouble with their backs. You’ve got the solution on your back. There’s no doubt about it: innovative STIHL quality and trouble-free maintenance make the STIHL BR 600 MAGNUM® just as reliable as you are.

At nozzle end

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• Advanced 4-MIX engine provides the power of a 2-stroke and less weight than a 4-stroke ®

• Simplified starting procedure for maximum productivity • Gives you 37% more power and uses 28% less fuel • Clean burning for better fuel economy and 80% fewer emissions • Industry leading power-to-weight ratio with comfortable harness • Easy-grip throttle with cruise control

JOIN THE CLUB that everyone is talking about! www.STIHLCLUB.ca

March 13-22: Canada Blooms: Toronto, ON www.canadablooms.com March 14-22: Chicago Flower & Garden Show: Chicago, IL www.chicagoflower.com April 9: Interior Plantscape Symposium: Kennett Square: PA www.americanhort.org

April 20 - May 10: Arbor Week

May 27-30: Skills Canada National Competition: Saskatoon, SK www.skillscompetencescanada.com

INTERNATIONAL

* “#1 Selling Brand in Canada” is based on an independent market share analysis of gasoline-powered handheld outdoor power equipment from 2014. Source: TraQline Canada.

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March 16-18: Canadian Garden Tourism Conference: Toronto, ON www.gardentourism.blogspot.ca

April 11-16: California Spring Trials: California www.springtrials.com

QUALITY AT WORK. For 89 years, STIHL has been a world-class innovator in outdoor power equipment. German engineered products featuring the latest pioneering technologies make STIHL the market leader. STIHL products are only available at independent STIHL Dealers who provide expert advice and on-site service. Thank you for supporting the leading team and for making STIHL the Number 1 Selling Brand in Canada.

March 11: Landscape Alberta Spring Conference: Calgary, AB www.landscape-alberta.com

March 18-19: AIPH Spring Meeting: Paris, FR www.aiph.org

www.stihl.ca

March 31 - April 2: Flowers & HorTech Ukraine: Kiev, UA www.flowershortech-expo.com April 15-16: FlorHolland Spring Fair: Aalsmeer, NL www.floraholland.com May 19-23: Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show: London, UK www.rhs.org.uk Printed on recycled paper using vegetable based inks by: Harmony Printing, 50 Woodbine Downs Boulevard, Toronto, ON M9W 5R2

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