Winter Newsbrief 2018 by Canadian Nursery Landscape Association

Green Industry News Winter 2018 Vol. 27 Issue 4

What’s inside:

• AAFC announces funding for ornamental sector research initiatives • New LCC Chair • Updates to Hiring Temporary Foreign Workers from Service Canada • Program year end highlights • New biometric requirements from IRCC • Vineland Research and Innovation Centre announces CEO departure

CNLA ATTENDS ELCA 2018 TOURS IN ITALY T

he professional excursion of the European Landscape Contractors Association (ELCA) headed to Milan from October 5th to 6th 2018. An attractive program for landscape professionals was prepared by ELCA’s Italian member association, ASSO.IMPRE.DI.A. (National Association of Companies for the environmental Protection) for their visit to Milan. Urban parks and modern city projects were visited on the first day, and the wonderful historical garden and the old city of Turin were on the agenda for day two. The journey through Milan and Turin was a marvellous one, showcasing gigantic parks, buildings,

residences and great environmental plans. ELCA president Emmanuel Mony (France) and Henrik Bos (Finland), chairman of the ELCA Committee of Firms, welcomed many good friends from European countries as well from Japan and Canada. One of the highlights of the tour was a visit to the famous Bosco Verticale. It is a model for a sustainable residential building, with metropolitan reforestation contributing to the regeneration of the environment and urban biodiversity without the implication of expanding the city’s overall footprint. It is a model of vertical densification of nature within

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landscape saskatchewan

CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

EXECUTIVE BOARD:

President Past President First Vice President Member Services & Insurance Chair Second Vice President & Green Cities Foundation Chair Treasurer

Bruce Hunter, CLT, CLD, CLM - BC Rene Thiebaud, CLM - ON Gerald Boot, CLM - ON Phil Paxton, CLT, CLM - AB Anthony O’Neill - NL

DIRECTORS:

BCLNA Representative Michael Kato - BC Landscape AB Representative Jeff Oudyk - AB Landscape SK Representative Aaron Krahn - SK MBNLA Representative David Hinton, CLM - MB Landscape ON Representative & Alan White - ON Climate Change Adaptation Chair Landscape NS Representative Robin Godfrey - NS & Garden Centres Canada Chair Landscape NB/PEI Representative Kevin Nauss, CLM - NB Landscape NL Representative Peggy Head, - NL Human Resources Chair Harold Deenen, CLM - ON Landscape Canada Chair Leslie Cornell, - SK Communications Chair Bill Hardy, CLM - BC Research Chair Vic Krahn, CLT - SK Government Relations Chair Michael Murray - NL Professional Development Chair Jeff Foley, CLT, CLM - BC Growers Canada Chair Anita Heuver - AB

the city that operates in relation to policies for reforestation and naturalization of large urban and metropolitan borders. The first example of Bosco Verticale consists of two residential towers of 110 and 76 m height. It was realized in the centre of Milan, on the edge of the Isola neighborhood, hosting 800 trees (each measuring three, six or nine meters), and a wide diversity of 4,500 shrubs and 15,000 other plants, carefully installed according to the sun’s exposure of the facade. On flat land, each Bosco Verticale equals an area of 20,000 square meters of forest. In terms of urban densification, it is the equivalent of an area of a single family dwelling of nearly 75,000 sq.m. The vegetal system of the Bosco Verticale contributes to the construction of a microclimate, produces humidity, absorbs CO2 and dust particles and produces oxygen.

Telling Canada’s Story

Their participation at the 2018 ELCA tours allowed CNLA president Bruce Hunter and LCC chair Leslie Cornell to highlight some of Canada’s achievements and current issues of concern being addressed by the CNLA on behalf of their landscape contractor members. Some of the highlights include: • The development of systems, programs and marketing strategies of specific benefit to landscape contractor members • An updated charge out rate and equipment survey, following up on the wage survey that was completed in 2014. Data will be used to develop an industry guideline, with the objective of helping new and existing members to position their firms within the Canadian landscape construction marketplace. • A tender and procurement practices white paper is to be developed with the goal of clarifying landscape contractor qualifications required to procure public projects. • The development of social media strategies specifically designed to attract millennials as a means of dealing with critical shortages of skilled labour.

This issue's flower: Poinsettia 2

Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes 7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | T: 1-888-446-3499 | F: 905-875-1840 | info@cnla-acpp.ca | www.cnla-acpp.ca

CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

AAFC announces funding for ornamental sector research initiatives The Canadian Ornamental Horticulture Alliance (COHA) is pleased to announce Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) has committed funding for a five year research project “Accelerating Green Plant Innovation for Environmental and Economic Benefit.” The project was approved under AAFC’s AgriScience Cluster Program.

The announcement was made Friday November 16th, 2018 by Parliamentary Secretary Jean-Claude Poissant on behalf of Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, at Expo-FIHOQ, the annual horticultural trade show of the Fédération interdisciplinaire de l’horticulture ornementale du Québec (FIHOQ) held in Drummondville, QC. A total of 10 research projects will be funded through a total investment of $6.8 million, including a contribution from AAFC of up to $4.6 million, supported by a further $2.2 million of industry cash and in-kind funding. With an overall focus on innovation to support the sector’s growth and environmental and economic sustainability, COHA’s priority setting process was guided by a rigorous, industrydirected approach, resulting in a diverse selection of projects to meet floriculture and nursery sector objectives. Adapting the sector to the new realities of climate change,

enhancing environmental sustainability through resource optimization, and improving productivity to increase business competitiveness are the three priorities that have guided COHA’s research principles. Noted COHA president Christian Brunet (Hydralis Inc. QC) “COHA is deeply appreciative of Agriculture and AgriFood Canada’s significant investment in research and innovation in our sector. The AgriScience Cluster Program is an important partnership between the federal government and many commercial operations in our sector. We look forward to the delivery of important economic and environmental benefits from this shared commitment to advancing innovation.” “Our Government is proud to support a vibrant ornamental horticulture industry across Canada,” said Jean-Claude Poissant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “We want to help our farmers grow products that lead the world in innovation, competitiveness and environmental sustainability.” COHA is committed to also delivering a strong and cohesive communication’s strategy throughout the duration of the project that will promote ongoing project research outcomes to the sector and to acknowledge the support received from AAFC and their industry partners in achieving these outcomes.

COHA is a strategic alliance of three broad based organizations: the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association, the Fédération interdisciplinaire de l’horticulture Ornementale du Québec and Flowers Canada Growers. These three organizations work together through COHA to coordinate industry action, contribute to effective public policy and speak with one voice on issues of concern to the sector as a whole. (left to right) Mr. Phil Paxton, 2nd vice-president CNLA; Mr. Jean-Claude Poissant, Parliamentary

Industry Events NORTH AMERICA

January 8-10: Landscape Ontario Congress: Toronto, ON www.locongress.com January 9-11: MANTS (Mid-Atlantic Nursery Trade Show): Baltimore, MD www.mants.com January 14-15: InVigorateU: Normal, IL www.illinoisgreen.net/invigorateu January 28-30: Green Lakes Trade Expo: Lansing, MI www.glte.org February 5-8: ProGreen Expo: Denver, CO www.progreenexpo.com February 21-22: Urban Green Infrastructure Summit: Tigard, OR www.metroextension.wsu.edu

INTERNATIONAL January 9-10: Royal FloraHolland Winter Fair: Aalsmeer, The Netherlands www.royalfloraholland.com January 22-25: IPM Essen: Essen, Germany www.ipm-essen.de February 20-22: Myplant & Garden– International Green Expo: Milan, Italy www.myplantgarden.com March 2-11: Taiwan International Orchid Show (TIOS): Tainan, Taiwan www.tiostw.com March 13-15: HortEx Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam www.hortex-vietnam.com April 16-18: Flower Expo Ukraine: Kyiv, Ukraine www.flowerexpo-ukraine.com

Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food; Mr. Christian Brunet, President, Canadian Ornamental Horticulture Alliance; Ms Luce Daigneault, Executive director, Fédération interdisciplinaire de l'horticulture ornementale du Québec

CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

STAFF: Executive Director Victor Santacruz, CAE, CLM victor@cnla-acpp.ca Executive Assistant Cheryl Gall Office Manager cheryl@cnla-acpp.ca Growers Manager Rita Weerdenburg rita@cnla-acpp.ca Member Services & Rebecca Doutre, CAE Landscape Priorities Manager rebecca@cnla-acpp.ca Industry Human Resources Leslie Sison & Government Relations leslie@cnla-acpp.ca Coordinator Professional Development & Bill Kiervin Retail Sector Manager bill@cnla-acpp.ca Communications Andrew Dmytrasz andrew@cnla-acpp.ca Member Services & Teagan Giddings COPF Administrator teagan@cnla-acpp.ca Professional Development Edith Oyosoro edith@cnla-acpp.ca Professional Development Lauryn Mullan lauryn@cnla-acpp.ca Minor Use/IPM Coordinator Peter Isaacson, B.Sc., MPM peter@cnla-acpp.ca Landscape Priorities Coordinator, Tim Kearny National Garden Project tim@cnla-acpp.ca COPF Coordinator Sandy Trickey sandy@copf.org Member Services Administration Megan Farias megan@cnla-acpp.ca

Members receive a 20% manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) discount off ECHO or Shindaiwa units and accessories*. With over 1,000 dealers coast-to-coast, members will benefit from a discount on power equipment, specialized commercial and professional gardening tools and accessories. Only available at ECHO and Shindaiwa stores and servicing dealers.

New Member Services staff!

Looking to enter the national awards competition?

NLA welcomed a new staff member to the association. Megan Farias has joined the Member Services Team and helps to administer all of the Member Savings Programs.

he National Awards of Landscape Excellence recognize Canadian companies that have actively participated in significantly raising the level of professionalism in the landscape industry. Each provincial association nominates members from their own awards of excellence competition to be entered into the national awards program. Provinces may submit up to three entries per category for a total of 15 entries p   er association f  or the following awards: landscape design, landscape construction (commercial a  nd residential), a  nd landscape maintenance (commercial and residential).

Megan comes from Mohawk College – Office Administration Program and is knowledgeable in all the details of our wide selection of savings programs. She is also front-line for all incoming calls to the office, so it is likely that you will talk to her if you contact us. Megan can be reached directly by phone at extension 8670 or by email at meagn@cnla-acpp.ca.

INTRODUCING A NEW ENHANCEMENT EFFECTIVE FEBRUARY, 1ST, 2018

Contact your provincial association for further submission and deadline details.

CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

2018 Year-end Highlights! Staff updates at CNLA: GMC and FCA member savings programs continue to be the most popular programs with a combined savings of 12,544,400!

Said Hello to:

Lauryn Mullan- Professional Development Coordinator Megan Farias- Member Services Administration

149 copies of the Canadian Landscape Standards were sold in 2018, with over 700 copies sold to date since it was introduced

Skills Canada 2018:

- Seven teams competed in the Landscape Gardening competition - Over 8,000 visitors gathered in Winnipeg Winners: · GOLD: Nova Scotia’s Diana Davidson and Chad Merrett · SILVER: Ontario’s Thomas Hawley and Blaise Mombourquett · BRONZE: Quebec’s Sebastien Brissette and Alexandra Boivin

Congratulations to the over 40 people across Canada who have earned Landscape Industry Certified designations this year!

CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

Member Services

HCSA Webinar

hat is a Health Care Spending Account (HCSA)? As your endorsed insurance provider of group benefits, HortProtect, is hosting a HCSA webinar y  ou don’t want to miss. This is an increasingly popular enhancement and an alternative  to conventional group health and dental plans. Health Care Spending Accounts offers practical, affordable, flexible, and a cost-effective way to meet the changing needs of many employers and the diverse needs of many employees. Health Care Spending Accounts (HCSA) can be added to your current HortProtect program to cover out-of-pocket expenses or as a stand-alone product to provide some form of coverage to employees. Connect with your Employee Benefits Advisor for any further inquiries. info@ hortprotect.com or 1-800-459-8990. Type in the link below to connect to the Webinar. https://peoplecorporation.zoom. us/j/754605769

Program year end highlights

t has been an incredible year of savings for all members. With 23 different member savings program we have to offer, there were plenty of savings to take advantage of this year. Some of the highlights for the year include: • $884,200 in savings discounts for FCA vehicles. • 3,404 Mark’s Work Warehouse savings cards issued to members. • $11,660,200 in savings discounts for GM vehicles! These numbers are as of the end of October. We are always on the lookout for new programs that will benefit you and in turn, help serve your customers. The programs we have are valuable to us because we know they are important to you in helping you manage your company. Member programs are specifically chosen with your best interest in mind. The member services teams is looking forward to 2019. It is sure to be an exciting year and we can't wait to see what it will bring. Be sure to stay up to date on all the latest news by checking out future issues of the CNLA Newsbrief and our monthly membership update!

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HortProtect is a great mix of quality, service, and value that is customized for the horticulture industry. Get a quote from a service team that works for you and your company. Gerald Boot, CLP - Boots Landscaping & Maintenance

GROUP LIFE, HEALTH AND DISABILITY INSURANCE

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Marsh Canada Limited Official insurance programs for members of:

Program Spotlight: Michelin

embers get access to special pricing on MICHELIN® Passenger & Light Truck, Truck, Agricultural, Compact Line, Tweel SSL and Earthmover Tires. Once the setup process is complete (please allow 2-3 weeks), the CNLA member will receive a welcome package.

Krown

eceive access to special fleet pricing program and discounts on specified products. Rust protection starting from $125 plus taxes. Krown Rust Protection is $81 for one case. **Proof of CNLA Membership required to receive special offers.

ECHO / Shindaiwa

embers receive a 20% manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) discount off ECHO or Shindaiwa units and accessories*. With over 1,000 dealers coast-to-coast, members will benefit from a discount on power equipment, specialized commercial and professional gardening tools and accessories. Only available at ECHO and Shindaiwa stores and servicing dealers.

Work Authority

he Work Authority savings card will be required to access the 15% discount. To receive a PDF of the card, contact the Member Services Team with your company name and the number of employees who will use the card.

Officially endorsed by:

www.HortProtect.com

CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

OUR MACHINES NEVER CALL IN SICK. When the forecast calls for snow, brush off your Cat® machine. Even in the coldest of months, you can always rely on our equipment to get the job done.

As a CNLA member, you can take advantage of bundling the exclusive member discount on Cat machines and attachments, along with the industry’s best financing:

Member Preferred

» Save up to $2,750 on qualifying machines.* » Buy a new Cat machine for 0% for 60 months** » Plus, get $250 off select new Cat attachments.* To take advantage of these exclusive offers, go to CatResourceCenter.com/CNLA.

*For CNLA member offer terms and conditions, please visit http://www.catresourcecenter.com/CNLA. **For all other special offer terms and conditions, please visit http://www.catresourcecenter.com/offers.

Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes

© 2018 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow,” the “Power Edge” trade dress, as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and mayFifth not be used without permission. 7856 Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8

| T: 1-888-446-3499 | F: 905-875-1840 | info@cnla-acpp.ca | www.cnla-acpp.ca

CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

Industry Human Resources New biometric Participate in CNLA's TFWP / SAWP 2018-2019 wage survey requirements from IRCC Information has come out that the process

NLA will be conducting their wage survey again beginning Nov 1, 2018 through to the end of February. The wage survey is an important tool which can help understand our industry across Canada. The information can be used to inform potential employees, potentially influence government and provide useful data to our member firms. As this wage survey is a continuation of the original project completed in 2014/15, we have the unique ability to start to analyze trends as well as provide solid business intelligence to help keep our member companies thriving and growing. For this survey to be successful, we recommend that the following information be prepared in advance of starting the survey to ensure the process is as painless as possible. The information you will need to prepare is as follows: •Average Base Hourly Wage: Total the number of employees working within a specific job description and divide that total by the average base hourly wage of those employees. Base Hourly Wage is the straight time pay not including overtime, shift premium, bonuses, benefits, profit sharing, payroll deductions, etc.

•Converting Salary into Base Hourly

Wage: Divide the total gross salary/week by 40 hours.

•Average Number of Hours Worked

Annually: Total the number of hours for all employees that do the job presently and divide by number of employees.

•Average Years of Employment within

Business: Total the number of years of employment of all the present employees that do the job and divide by the number of employees.

•Total Number of Employees: Total number of employees for that specific job.

Type in the link below to take the survey. surveymonkey.com/r/wage-survey2018

Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently announced all foreign nationals applying for a temporary resident visa, work, study or temporary resident permit (excluding US nationals) and permanent residence will need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photograph) when making an application at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). International farm and food workers host countries that will be affected include: • As of July 31, 2018, new regulations will require that applicants from Europe, the Middle East and Africa give their biometrics such as workers coming from France, Germany, Ukraine, Ireland, and South Africa. • On December 31, 2018, the regulations will apply to the remaining applicants from Asia, Asia Pacific and the Americas such as workers coming from the Philippines, Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean. • The in-Canada service channel won't be established until 2019. Nursery growers who will need to bring workers in January and February are advised to get their LMIA in as soon as possible; if completed by Dec. 31, 2018, workers will not be required to obtain biometrics. Expanding Canada’s biometrics program is a Government of Canada initiative led by IRCC in partnership with the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA), Shared Services Canada (SSC) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) with the overall aim of facilitating entry of genuine travelers while deterring, detecting and stopping entry of those who pose a risk to the health, safety and security of Canadians. For more information, visit: canada.ca/ en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/ campaigns/biometrics.html

in Mexico is changing. It is important to know that processing times may take longer as a result. Applications can be submitted up to 120 days in advance of the workers start date. (This is also the earliest you can submit to the Job Bank.) We recommend you set a calendar reminder to be as close to this 120 days in advance date as possible to ensure you get your workers on-time. The following information was assembled by BCLNA’s Hedy Dyck. Some of these rules may pertain only to BC, but its best to know what is happening. 1. Biometrics The requirements for biometrics (fingerprinting) means that workers will be required to go to Mexico City for processing before they get their work visa. For some workers, the round trip is expensive and lengthy, which may affect their interest in coming to work for a short term. However, as BCLNA growers are aware, if a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) has been approved before December 15, 2018, for entry into Canada in the first two months of 2019, they will not require biometrics. It may be that the timing on this might be extended, so workers who come later under the same LMIA, also do not need to have their biometrics completed. 2. Substitutions There will be no last-minute substitutions at the airport due to the biometrics requirement. Any substitutions will take at least six weeks to process. So, if you are not sure if your named workers can get in, mark ‘Yes’, that you will take substitutions, so you get the right number of workers. 3. Named Workers If you are one of the growers whose named workers ended up on a farm they did not want to go to, you can get them back by requesting them again as named workers. Please contact the Mexican Consulate if this is the case. 4. Timing It will take on average 144 days from the

CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

day you apply for your LMIA to worker arrival. The LMIA goes to the Mexican Ministry of Labour, then CVAC (Canada Visa Application Centre) and then the named worker is informed. It used to be the Ministery of Labour would inform them. This is a delay as compared to previous years. The worker or the employer can contact the Mexican consulate to follow-up and stay in touch with respect to worker processing. 5. Housing Inspections ‘Pass with Conditions’ will not be accepted as a ‘Pass’, so your LMIA will not be processed. You must make the required changes, however small, and then be reinspected or prove that it has been fixed in order to get a pass and have your LMIA processed. No foamies will be allowed as mattresses. Full mattresses are required and will need to be changed every two years.

Updates to Hiring Temporary Foreign Workers from Service Canada

CNLA Industry HR Coordinator, Leslie Sison, spoke with Service Canada on Sept 25, 2018 and they were excited to pass on some new information. They advised that the government has heard our comments and suggestions and have taken them to heart. As such, they were able to provide her with some improvements that will be made to the LMIA process for the upcoming TFWP/ SAWP season. • There will be greater flexibility when using commercial housing (hotels) for workers, as well as guidance to officers when they come across these situations. • Leased accommodation flexibility: • Flexibility to understand that when leases come in (also so new builds or prefab houses waiting to be made or delivered) the inspection can happen upon delivery. • SAWP – no longer need to submit unsigned start contract at the time that they apply, as there is no value if the

document has not been signed. -> this must be signed when the workers arrive and kept on file. • Extending validity of workers until Dec 15 (or 6 months – whatever is longer) • To make sure workers LMIA doesn’t expire while they are still needed. • Various Arrival Dates. – if multiple TFW are required for different start dates, (for the same wage and occupation) they can all be requested on one application to arrive for SAWP. (For example, if you have the same position at the same wage, but you need one worker to arrive on Jan 20, another to arrive on Feb 18 and another to arrive on April 29, you can submit them all on the same application).

Employment and Social Development Canada

On Thursday Nov. 1, 2018, the EI Commissioner’s Employers Forum was held in Gatineau QC, and was attended by CNLA Executive Director Victor Santacruz and Industry HR Coordinator Leslie Sison. The meeting was hosted by ESDC Commissioner for Employers Judith Andrew and attended by various government representatives including most notably, the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos and Parliamentary Secretary Rodger Cuzner.

• Service Canada will prioritize employers that need workers earlier in the season.

Speaking on behalf of industry at the round table discussion, Victor Santacruz addressed the sub-plan concept, whereby “We appreciate the sub-plan, but the issue is that it takes approximately six weeks to get a payment. Employees can’t pay bills and employers can’t pay the workers. This forces people to look at other sectors and then we lose people. They will often take jobs for cash and then we all lose. We would like to see a system where we can work with government; have the government pay a little and have employers pay a little more but allow the workers to keep more money.” Parliamentary Secretary Rodger Cuzner mentioned he would like to discuss this further. After this session, Judith Andrew reached out to Victor to discuss his comments in more depth. Victor was able to succinctly detail the issues that our industry faces with using sub-plan and to clearly outline how the program works in reality for a seasonal industry. He was also able to broach the issue that EI invests funds into training and grants for apprenticeship, but then fails to ask for trained apprentices when issuing tenders.

• Jamaican workers can renew their biometrics while they are here. Mexican workers will have to do this after Dec 31, 2018. (CNLA will be speaking with IRCC to verify this as Service Canada is not the department governing this and cannot confirm this 100%).

Judith Andrew, Commissioner for Employers was very interested in these concerns and has suggested further meetings for a more in depth look at the sub-plan specifically as it applies to seasonal industries. The meeting was a promising step in the right direction.

• For transfer workers – if a housing inspection was approved for a TFW, and another is being transferred in, a new inspection is not required. (So long as you are not adding to a location already at max capacity) Coming changes in progress: • There is work being done on a “Trusted Employer” model. The government is working on a policy; however, it will not be ready for the upcoming season. • The government is at a “high level” position for an on-line system. Work is currently in progress but will not be ready for some time. A pilot will be implemented using stakeholders to work out any issues before it is ready to go live. CNLA will provide you with updates as they are made available. Biometrics: • Service Canada has been nudging employers to apply as early as possible to accommodate the extra files that Biometrics will incorporate.

CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

landscape industry

certified

Recently Awarded Landscape Industry Certifications Landscape Designer Anna Van Maris, CLD Cameron Trudeau, CLD

ON ON

Technician-Hardscape Installation Sarah Parker, CLT AB Harley Gray, CLT BC Josh Batchilder, CLT PEI Matthew Blackburn, CLT QC Technician-Irrigation Joe Jordan, CLT

Technician-Lawn Care Nolan French, CLT Phillipe Bourbeau, CLT

BC BC

Technician-Ornamental Maintenance Meagan Swan, CLT ON Hussein Al-Rammahi, CLT BC Felicia Mayrhofer, CLT BC Caitlin Marilee-Beth Williams, CLT BC Dallas Friesen, CLT BC Jessica Young, CLT BC Jana Reum, CLT BC Joshua Wutzke, CLT BC Troy Burke, CLT PEI

Professional Development 2018 Wrap up

It has been a wonderful year for testing in 2018 across Canada with plenty of newly certified people, some even getting certified in multiple areas! In Alberta, certification staff administered a test in February at Olds College where there were three new CLT’s (two softscape, one ornamental). Over on the other end of Canada in Atlantic Canada at the Dalhousie Agricultural Campus in November, there were four new CLT’s (one ornamental, one turf maintenance, one hardscape, one softscape) and two Lawn Care Technician’s that were tested on a previous date. Out on the west coast, British Columbia had two tests this past year with the first one in June and second in October. The June testing had six new CLT’s (four ornamental, one irrigation, one lawn care) and the second test in October had eight new CLT’s (4 Ornamental, 2 Turf, 1 Irrigation, 1 Softscape, 1 Hardscape).

Ontario had nine new CLT’s this year over the course of three different test dates in June, September, and November at Landscape Ontario office and Algonquin College. June saw four new CLT’s (one ornamental, one turf, one softscape, one hardscape) and September also had four new CLT’s (two turf, one ornamental, one Technician-Softscape Installation softscape). November had a single new CLT Mike Prong, CLT ON in hardscape. Testing at Fanshawe college Harley Gray, CLT BC at the Cuddy Gardens was held throughout Melissa Lake, CLT NS the 2017/2018 school year with six students earning their CLT designation in ornamental Technician-Turf Maintenance maintenance in 2018. Testing is not yet Richard Bouillon, CLT ON completed for the year in Ontario, with Brittany Howell, CLT ON one more test coming up in November for Hussein Al-Rammahi, CLT BC residents of Grand Valley Institute. Paul Scherle, CLT BC Andrew Willey, CLT BC Breton Redmond, CLT NS Written testing opportunities are available on a monthly basis. Contact your provincial office for more information.

Stay informed and get noticed at

www.landscapeindustrycertifiedtechnician.ca www.landscapeindustrycertifiedmanager.ca www.certifiedlandscapedesigner.com

Continue to earn your CLM this fall and winter Earning the Certified Landscape Manager (CLM) designation is a self-study process that gives candidates the flexibility to challenge the exams at their own pace and convenience. It is the perfect choice for busy professionals aiming for work, study and home balance! Candidates become CLM's when they complete a series of seven multiple-choice exams covering corporate finance, human resources, leadership and corporate citizenship, sales and marketing, risk, law and contracts, strategic planning and technical exterior landscaping. The set of seven recently updated business management manuals (available for purchase) for landscape professionals, is an invaluable resource for preparing to challenge the exams. Earning this designation distinguishes candidates as having certified their knowledge, skills and professional competence. CLM testing will continue to take place after the changes are implemented to the technician exams by the National Association of Landscape Professionals. For more information visit: landscapeindustrycertifiedmanager.ca or contact Edith Oyosoro at CNLA by telephone at 1-888-446-3499 ext. 8650 or via email at edith@cnla-acpp.ca

Upcoming CLD Events in Ontario

Landscape Ontario's (LO) Designer Group will hold special events for new and inprogress candidates aiming to earn the CLD designation. The events, scheduled for March 13th and November 13th, 2019, include opportunities for networking, written exams, portfolio reviews and training sessions on portfolio development. Candidates who register to write their exams at the March event, which holds at the prestigious Canada Blooms, will receive free entry to the show. For more information and to register, contact Edith Oyosoro at CNLA by telephone at 1-888-446-3499 ext. 8650 or via email at edith@cnla-acpp.ca

CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

YOUR BUSY SEASON.

EXTENDED.

CNLA MEMBERS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR PLATINUM 2 JOHN DEERE REWARDS

There doesn’t have to be an offseason when you use John Deere equipment and snow-removal attachments. And as a Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) member, you’ll receive valuable equipment discounts, special financing options, Workshop Products discounts, and other exclusive members-only benefits when you sign up for your free John Deere Rewards Platinum membership. Visit JohnDeere.ca/Associations for details. JohnDeere.ca/Associations

CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

Growers Canada

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre announces CEO departure

ineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland) announced that Dr. Jim Brandle has resigned from the organization effective November 9, 2018. Dr. Brandle assumed the role of CEO during the organization’s 2007 start-up and spent the last decade positioning Vineland as a leading centre for horticulture innovation in Canada. He also helped build a skilled team of leaders who will maintain scientific rigour and operational excellence at Vineland going forward. Other organizational changes include the appointment of Dr. Tania Humphrey as Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) for Vineland effective immediately. Dr. Humphrey joined Vineland in 2008 and most recently served as Director of Strategic Planning & Research Management for the organization. In a follow-up press release, Vineland has also announced the appointment of Shelley Martin in the role of interim CEO. Ms. Martin, a member of Vineland’s Board of Directors since 2017, retired earlier this year from her role as President and CEO of Nestlé Canada Inc, a position she held for the final five years of her 28-year career at Nestlé. The Vineland Board has initiated the search for a new CEO and is pleased Ms. Martin agreed to assume the role of interim CEO until a permanent CEO has been selected, ensuring a smooth transition to new leadership.

Going Global: international export guide now available Going Global: Introduction to International Marketing is a comprehensive participant’s guide developed on behalf of the agriculture and agri-food sectors by the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC).

The guide offers a complete overview of the intricate world of international marketing, from conducting market research to actual market entry strategies. Particularly valuable are the many resources included in the guide, including links to government and private Canadian, US and international organizations engaged in market and export development. A limited number of copies are available to CNLA grower members, contact rita@cnla-acpp.ca

CFIA’s new Greenhouse Certification Program may offer benefits to Canada’s nursery growers Nursery operations with greenhouse and propagation facilities may be interested in the new “GCP” – the United States-Canada Greenhouse Grown Plant Certification program. The GCP is a bilateral trade program that will be available in December 2018 and allows facilities to ship eligible product without obtaining an official inspection at the time of export. What is particularly useful for many nursery facilities is that the GCP includes the opportunity for shipping potted plants that have had a period of outdoor production. This represents a significant shift for CFIA and USDA-APHIS, and opens the door to quick turnaround exports for a wider range of plants. The GCP is based on a systems approach, but is an evolved version over previous trade programs. The principles of the systems approach in managing phytosanitary risk have resulted in very successful improvements in mitigating pest spread within North America. The current CNCP has not had widespread uptake due to the level of commitment required by facilities, and the predecessor to the GCP was similar in approach to the CNCP. The GCP has evolved to be a more demonstrative approach, focusing on how a plant is produced as opposed to the documentation surrounding the certification

activities. Flowers Canada Growers has developed an online training tool to assist facilities in participating in the GCP. Contact GCP@fco.ca for more information.

Peggy Walsh Craig honoured with Award of Merit by IPPS Eastern Region

The CNLA offers their congratulations to Peggy Walsh Craig upon her receipt of the 2018 Award of Merit from the Eastern Region of the International Plant Propagators’ Society at their annual meeting in Newark, Delaware this past fall.

IPPS Eastern Region Past President, Dale Pierson (left) presents the award to Peggy Walsh Craig (right). The Award of Merit is the Region’s highest award - given for exceptional service to the Society and to the advancement of the field of propagation and production. An IPPS member since 1979, Peggy has contributed unselfishly to IPPS, having served as a Director on the Eastern Region Board from 2007-2010 and as President of the Region in 2015 as well as numerous committees. Peggy is well-known to the grower sector across Canada for her role as Managing Director of the Canadian Ornamental Plant Foundation (COPF) from 1991 until her retirement in 2011. Prior to COPF, Peggy worked for several wholesale nurseries in southern Ontario and is a graduate of the University of Guelph.

CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

Advanced Payments Program

Canada’s wholesale nursery growers are reminded that they may be eligible to participate in the Advanced Payments Program (APP), a federal government financial loan guarantee program that gives producers easier access to credit through cash advances. Advance amounts of up to $400,000, with the first $100,000 being interest free, are based on 50 percent of your anticipated sales within the current production period. Advances must be secured by one of the following: - Production insurance - AgriStability - Insurance policy - Assignable monetary instruments - Third party guarantees, or - Inventory Further information is available on the AAFC website: agr.gc.ca, search Advance Payments Program or contact rita@cnla-acpp.ca

Vineland releases 2018-2019 Innovation Report The 2018-2019 Innovation Report offers a variety of articles on Vineland's research programs from sweet potato, greenhouse tomatoes, consumer insights and biocontrol to automation technologies. Also included in this issue are case studies on bringing world crops to market and greening Canada's roadways.

Vineland’s 49th Parallel Collection continues to grow

Coming in 2021 - Aurora Borealis™ We are pleased to introduce the third selection of the collection: Aurora Borealis™.

Here comes the sun Chinook Sunrise™ is set for release March 31, 2019.

The bright dancing lights of the aurora are captured in the blooming clusters of this dramatic sunset pink rose set against dark green and glossy foliage. This lowmaintenance rose measures one-metre in height with a one-metre spread and features black spot resistance and winter hardiness across Canada. Outstanding beauty. Exceptional quality. Introducing Chinook Sunrise™, the second addition to Vineland’s 49th Parallel Collection. This incredible rose blooms in a flush with a riot of exotic coral colours. Gardeners will love this low-maintenance beauty measuring 1.5 metre in height with an almost 1.5 metre spread, black spot tolerance and winter hardiness across Canada.

To help promote these future rose releases, Vineland’s 49th Parallel Collection website has undergone a transformation. Check the revitalized website 49throses.com with its new look. For more information, please visit 49throses.com or contact: Amy Bowen, PhD Research Director, Consumer Insights 905-562-0320 x805 amy.bowen@vinelandresearch.com

The report also includes content on growing the urban canopy. To view the report in full, visit: vinelandresearch.com/ publications/innovation-reports/20182019-innovation-report

CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

Garden Centres Canada Report from the 2018 International Garden Centre Association Congress: Prague, Czech Republic

Writen by: Bill Kiervin, GCC staff

The 2018 IGCA Congress took place in Czech Republic from September 16th to 21st. Over five days, 180 members from 19 countries toured nine different garden centres, one of the largest nurseries in the country, one big box competitor and one supplier factory. Delegates were welcomed at almost every stop by local musicians playing traditional music. What a wonderful country to visit! And what wonderful hosts! The range of products included plants, trees and cut flowers, florist services, of course but also clothing, wines, soaps, oils, tea, gourmet foods and cafes. One garden

centre had over 150,000 café customers last fiscal year.

Truly, these centres are destinations to visit independent of the horticulture that surrounds them. Another great initiative coming out of the Congress is the announcement of a Student Exchange Program where young industry members can connect with a host garden centre in another country to gain and exchange valuable experiences. More information on this venture will be available in the new year. The Congress also had business sessions where information was shared on the top issues facing members (weather, economy,

finding qualified staff, changing consumer behaviour and competition). Additional metrics included average sales per customer and labour costs, among others. There were three morning seminar presentations from industry veterans which became topics of conversation on the buses as we headed out on the tours. All in all, these were busy and informative days, offering great ideas and different perspectives, new friends and shared experiences. I highly recommend attending Congress no matter what your level of experience in the industry.

IGCA 2019: Windsor, England

IGCA 2019 will be taking place in Windsor, England from September 1st-6th 2019. Stops on the tour will include: Kew Gardens, RHS Wisley, Hatfield House and many more. Registration is now open. To register or for more information, go to igca2019.co.uk

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CNLA Newsbrief

Winter 2018

Landscape Canada

Gardens and Healthy Cities Symposium

The National Garden Working Group is b   usy preparing for the Gardens and Healthy Cities Symposium on October 30, 2018 in Ottawa at the Nantional Capital Commission’s Urbanism Lab. This very popular event often has a very strong attendance from public and civic official. The theme of the day will be as follows: Gardens and Healthy Cities Presented in collaboration with Canadensis and the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association, this panel discussion will focus on the unique contributions to human health that gardens and picturesque landscapes provide. Speakers: • Harry Jongerden, Executive Director, Toronto Botanical Garden • René Pronovost, Director, Montreal Botanical Garden | Space for life • Alice Hutton, The Royal Ottawa Health Care Group We are using this unique opportunity to invite the Minister of Heritage (Pablo Rodriguez) and the Secretary to the Minister Andy Fillmore) to attend and speak to the value of the National Garden in Ottawa. It is our hope that the feed back is positive and next steps would include a stakeholders meeting held in Ottawa in the New Year.

Communities in Bloom 2018 report

CNLA staff and volunteers attended the Communities in Bloom National and International awards program in Strathcona Alberta, (Sept. 25 to 29th). The aim was to connect with CIB participants (especially municipalities) across Canada and help to promote the CLS standard and to draw awareness to CNLA. CNLA was given great exposure including but not limited to the opportunity to present the Environmental Action award on

stage at the awards ceremony, Phil Paxton (incoming CNLA president) presented the award. He had an opportunity to talk about CNLA, introduced the new Green Cities award and play a 60 second video clip produced by CNLA staff.

another greenhouse for growing their own perennials and annuals. Since then, yet another greenhouse has been added as the market for succulents has exploded in their area, requiring its own production greenhouse.

At the booth, delegates were shown a copy of the CLS manual, offered literature on CLS and CNLA. Landscape Alberta Executive Director Joel Beatson was also present to help welcome delegates.

Although still a small company, Cornell Design and Landscaping has expanded steadily over the years and today employs 15 people during the peak season.

In 2019 the event will be held in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. It is a great opportunity for industry to connect with passionate and informed people who believe in what CNLA does and to develop an entire network of advocates.

The CNLA is happy to welcome the new LCC Chair!

Leslie Cornell's personal business philosophy and goals are to help people through landscape horticulture. Sometimes that means helping a student reach his or her goals of becoming a landscaper, or it may be helping customers achieve their backyard oasis for their staycation. Leslie started her company Cornell Design and Landscaping Ltd in 2008 as a landscape construction company with a complete tree nursery and a small perennial greenhouse. In those early days, Leslie’s only other employee was Kurtis Langton, her son’s best friend, whom she encouraged to enroll in the apprenticeship program. Her encouragement was an investment in the future of her company, as today Kurtis is one of the company’s key employees. In 2009, the company was expanded to include a retail garden centre, plus

Leslie currently services as the president of the Saskatchewan Nursery Landscape Association (SNLA), and has been an active member of the local Communities in Bloom board for Moose Jaw, SK from 2014 to 2018. A graduate of the University of Saskatchewan with a Prairie Horticulture Certificate and a Landscape Arboriculture designation received in 2009, the UofS PHC program asked Leslie to represent the Landscape Arboriculture stream of PHC in their marketing campaign by way of infographic flyers to the public. Leslie participated on the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship Trade Board for Landscape Horticulturist since 2009 and in 2016 she became a Red Seal Landscape Horticulturist. Her landscape construction team was featured in the infographic marketing campaign for Saskatchewan Apprenticeship program landscape horticulturist. She participated in the development of the Interprovincial Program Guide for Landscape Horticulturist in 2010 as the Saskatchewan delegate. In 2017 she participated in the Red Seal Occupational Standard for Landscape Horticulturist Red Seal Trade exam question review. Among her many other commitments to the landscape industry, Leslie has also participated on the Landscape Canada Committee for several years, including participation on the LCC sub-committee for the development of the Canadian Landscape Standards that was released in 2016. Leslie wears many hats, all of which are designed to promote and further the landscape horticulture sector. On behalf of all members, CNLA welcomes Leslie as the new chair of the Landscape Canada Committee.

CNLA Newsbrief 2018 BOSS® RB 400Winter DIRT Pressure Washer

RB 400 DIRT BOSS®

SPARKLING CLEAN AGAIN IN NO TIME

Dirt and debris on a job site are as natural as shavings in a sawmill. The STIHL RB 400 DIRT BOSS® pressure washer brings the power you need to finish every job right – with spotless tools, machines, driveways, patios and walkways. The RB 400 DIRT BOSS® cleaning system is remarkably easy to use, with equipment features including the ergonomic professional wand, enables you to adopt a more comfortable working position that makes cleaning less strenuous and almost a pleasure. The RB 400 DIRT BOSS® pressure washer is the cleaning solution for your everyday dirty tasks around the house, garden, tractors or machinery equipment. • • • • • • • •

Brass manifold design with stainless steel valves and ceramic-coated pistons 2-piece lance and gun assembly with ergonomic trigger handle and stainless steel nozzles Powerful commercial-grade engine delivers optimal performance High-quality durable components for tough cleaning jobs Easy start pump system allows for easy and smooth starts – no hard pulls or difficult starting Powder-coated, 1¼” welded steel tube frame with folding handlebar 10” pneumatic tires (tube and steel rim) Nozzles: 15°, 25°, 40°

Displacement Working Pressure Flow Rate Hose Length

196 cc 2,700 psi 2.7 gpm 25 ft

PRO-FLEET COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE PROGRAM STIHL’s Pro-Fleet Commercial Landscape Program is designed to provide commercial landscapers a volume discount on major purchases of 5 or more landscaping power tools. Visit your STIHL Dealer today to find out more and take advantage of the savings!

QUALITY AT WORK FOR OVER 90 YEARS. For over 90 years, STIHL has been a world market leader and innovator in outdoor power equipment. German engineered products featuring the latest pioneering technologies make STIHL the preferred choice for professionals, consistently providing uncompromising quality. STIHL products are only available at independent STIHL Dealers who provide personal advice and expert service. Thank you for the continuous support and for making STIHL the brand you trust.

* “#1 Selling Brand in Canada” is based on an independent market share analysis of gasoline-powered handheld outdoor power equipment from 2017. Source: TraQline Canada.

THE

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STIHLCanada

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Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT

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