CNLA Newsbrief: Winter 2013 by Canadian Nursery Landscape Association

National Awards of Landscape Excellence featured in this issue

Green Industry News Winter 2013 Vol. 22 Issue 1

What’s inside: • Gloria Beck receives CNLA President’s Award

10TH ANNUAL

• Employers become more efficient with electronic Records of Employment • Say ‘Hello!’ Down Under • New exam for Lawn Care Technicians • Details on three new member savings programs

At the end of January, CNLA hosted its 10th annual National Awards of Landscape Excellence gala in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Co-hosted by Landscape Ontario’s Denis Flanagan and new CNLA President, Christene LeVatte, it was an evening to remember! Nine awards were presented to companies and individuals across the country, showcasing Canada’s best. This special issue of the Newsbrief will highlight the winning entries. Pictures from the evening are also available on the CNLA website at www.cnla-acpp.ca/awards. Energy was high as industry professionals gathered together to display their work and celebrate those who make up this fantastic industry. Also in attendance were government representatives, the CNLA board and staff, provincial association staff, and the national certification committee, just to name a few!

It was an excellent opportunity to meet CNLA members from across the country and view their exceptional work. Even though judges can only give one award per category, all entrants deserve recognition on their fantastic projects. The landscape awards recognize those companies that have actively participated in raising the level of professionalism in the industry. Each province nominates members that are then entered into the national awards. It is never an easy decision for the judges and this year was no different, as all entrants displayed a high level of effort and expertise. Thankyou to all entrants, as well as the award sponsors: RBC, Chrysler, DynaSCAPE, Caterpillar and John Deere.

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Winter 2013

AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE EXECUTIVE BOARD: President Past President First Vice President Second Vice President

Member Services & Insurance Chair

Christene LeVatte, CLP - NS Bill Stensson - ON Rene Thiebaud, CLP - ON Gerald Boot, CLP - ON

Treasurer Bruce Hunter, CLT, CLD, CLP - BC

DIRECTORS: LNS Representative LO Representative BCLNA Representative Human Resources Chair Public Relations Chair Research Chair Government Relations AQPP Representative NAPPO Chair LNB Representative Garden Centre Canada Chair Certification Chair Landscape Canada Chair LA Representative LM Representative Growers Canada Chair LNL Representative SNLA Representative

Robin Godfrey - NS Alan White - ON Michael Kato - BC Harold Deenen, CLP - ON Bill Hardy, CLP - BC Vic Krahn, CLT - SK Michael Murray - NL Pierre Lavallée - QC Bruce McTavish - BC Darrell Nameth, CLP - NB Anthony O’Neill - NL Jeannette French, CLP - NL Phil Paxton, CLT, CLP - AB David Hinton, CLP - MB John Byland - BC Doreen Layman, CLT - NL Aaron Krahn - SK

STAFF: Executive Director Victor Santacruz, CAE, CLP victor@cnla-acpp.ca Manager of Industry Human Resources Joel Beatson, CAE, CLP and Professional Development joel@cnla-acpp.ca Member Services Manager Rebecca Doutre, CAE Garden Centres Priorities Manager rebecca@cnla-acpp.ca Growers Manager Rita Weerdenburg rita@cnla-acpp.ca Landscape Priorities Manager Liz Klose, B.Sc., (Agr), CLP liz@cnla-acpp.ca Certification Specialist Julia Ricottone, EP julia@cnla-acpp.ca Certification Services Crislane Ackermann crislane@cnla-acpp.ca Minor Use/IPM Co-ordinator Peter Isaacson, B.Sc., MPM peter@cnla-acpp.ca Member Services and Christine Finn Provincial Relations Co-ordinator christine@cnla-acpp.ca Communications Co-ordinator Anne Bowering anne@cnla-acpp.ca Executive Assistant Cheryl Gall cheryl@cnla-acpp.ca Administrative Assistant Barbara Blackadar barbara@cnla-acpp.ca Office Assistant Chelsea Ten Broek chelsea@cnla-acpp.ca

Gloria Beck receives President’s Award Gloria Beck, co-owner of Parkland Nurseries & Garden Centre, was the recipient of the CNLA President’s Award. Gloria started in the industry in the late 70’s while working with her father, Earl Beck, and her brother Dwayne Beck. In 1982, Dwayne and Gloria purchased the nursery/garden centre from their father and decided to make Parkland Nurseries & Garden Centre Ltd. a year round operation. Parkland participates as members of Landscape Alberta, the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association, and the International Garden Centre Association. Gloria Beck was CNLA president in 1995 and 1996. After receiving the award, Gloria said, “I was truly amazed!! This honour would not have been possible without the mentorship of both my father Earl Beck and Henry Heuver of Foothills Landscaping, as well as the support of my staff. I am grateful to all those who have supported me and travelled the journey along the way with me.” Since the 1980s, Gloria has been very involved in our industry receiving numerous honours for her valuable contributions. As a representative of Garden Centres Canada, she participated in IGCA meetings in Africa, England, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, Spain, United States, Holland, Switzerland and Germany. She was also the President of the International Garden Centre Association from 2001-2003, being the first North American and first woman to hold that honour. During her time with CNLA, Gloria played a crucial role in landscape industry certification, apprenticeship formation and pesticide licensing, just to name a few! Gloria is currently continuing her involvement in the future of the horticulture industry by serving on the Olds College Board of Governors.

Gloria’s volunteer work also goes beyond the industry, including involvement in Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Partner for Progress with Aspen Heights Elementary School, Hospital Foundation, Women’s Shelter, Red Deer Hospice Society, Red Deer City Flower Committee, and City of Red Deer Arbor Week Celebration, Red Deer Centennial Celebration, and Olds College Centennial. Gloria’s advice to those just starting out in this industry can be summed up in two words, “get involved”! Becoming involved with industry associations and educational institutions is a great place to start. The CNLA President’s Award is given to members or staff who, in the opinion of the current Executive Committee of the CNLA Board of Directors, has demonstrated beyond question, a sustained personal commitment that has contributed beneficially to the enhancement of the industry at a national or international level. There is no doubt that Gloria Beck is more than deserving of this honour – congratulations to Gloria!

CNLA Past President, Bill Stensson, awarded Gloria Beck with the CNLA President’s Award at the 2013 National Awards of Landscape Excellence.

Printed on recycled paper using vegetable based inks by: Harmony Printing, 50 Woodbine Downs Boulevard, Toronto, ON M9W 5R2

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

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Garden Centre of the Year 2013

Category Winners

While this is the first year for the Chrysler Garden Centre of the Year award, Garden Centres Canada has handed out five awards over the past four years to garden centre

Teams Growing

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members based on the inspection program. The new Garden Centre of the Year Award will help recognize the professional work of retail members based on a set of criteria through a written submission on the topics of “Growing Teams”, “Growing Gardeners”, “Growing Environments”, “Growing Connections”, “Growing Sales”, “Growing with Technology” and “Continuous Growth”.

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The committee also recognized three category winners: Canadale Nurseries in Ontario for “Growing Teams”; Phoenix Perennials in British Columbia for “Growing Gardeners”; and Sandhill Nursery in Ontario for “Growing Sales”.

The 2012 Ram Heavy Duty makes light work of any job. It offers 22,750 lb of towing,1 unsurpassed torque and the most legendary engine of them all: the 6.7 L Cummins Turbo Diesel. It’s part of what makes Ram “Canada’s longest-lasting pick-up.”2 And another reason why Ram Heavy Duty is the number one selling diesel pick-up in Canada.3

1.800.463.3600 ¹On select Ram models when properly equipped. Optional Max. Tow package required. See your dealer for full details. ²Based on longevity of entire Ram pickup lineup compared to competitive pickups. Based on R. L. Polk Canada, Inc. Canadian Vehicles In Operation data as of July 1, 2010, for model years 1987-2011 (Ram LD) and model years 1993-2011 (Ram HD). ³Based on 2011 calendar year-to-date registrations.

T:10.875”

This year’s winner was Sheridan Nurseries Ltd., Unionville Garden Centre location in Ontario. Congratulations to Sheridan for truly representing all seven categories!

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DynaSCAPE Award of Excellence for Landscape Design Project Description: Winner: The Landmark Group for “Sightlines” in Ontario

www.thelandmarkgroup.ca

Situated on a hill overlooking a large body of water, the client dreamed of one day having a backyard oasis. The design vision brought forward multi-level spaces, large trees for dappled sunlight, multiple congregating spaces, including a gunite pool with weathered boulders and a water feature that meanders through it and other areas in the backyard. Cooking, dining, sitting around a fire and playing bocce while maintaining sightlines to the water, allow this client to entertain and relax in style.

Participants in this category:

Julia's Alpine Garden (Alberta)

Navigate your sales. Streamline your jobs. Grow your profit.

www.dynascape.com

1 800 710 1900

Landform Inc. (Alberta)

Yards Unlimited Landscaping Inc. (Ontario)

Price Landscaping Services (New Brunswick)

Software to manage every aspect of your landscape business. Tract Consulting (Newfoundland and Labrador)

Member

Sponsor

Joe Bidermann Landscaping Design Inc. (Nova Scotia)

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2013

The Grower of the Year Award is designed to promote and award excellence in horticultural production domestically and also internationally. The award was launched in summer 2010 and was first awarded in February 2011 in Vancouver. This award was developed to closely mirror the already existing award developed by the International Association of Horticultural Producers to enable easy application. The winner of this year’s Grower of the Year competition will be entered to attend the AIPH gala to be held in Ontario in 2013.

www.sheridannurseries.com

We are excited that Canada has won the coveted Golden Rose award from AIPH for the last two years! First by Byland Nurseries of British Columbia in 2011, and then by Sheridan Nurseries of Ontario in 2012. Congratulations to these two companies for representing our country so well on the international stage! The 2013 Grower of the Year award went to Sheridan Nurseries Ltd., in Ontario for demonstrating sound economic performance, innovation in production and technique, strong market orientation and professional company image, high environmental standards, and sound human resource policy.

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Caterpillar Award of Excellence for Residential Landscape Construction/Installation Winner: Fossil Project Services Ltd. for “Spanish Banks Private Estate” in British Columbia

Project Description: Fossil Project Services Ltd. was hired to demolish the existing landscape and construct all aspects of the new landscape including drainage, site preparation, lawns, planting areas, walkways, patios, stairs, ramp, walls, a trellis, bocce court, infinity edge pool, spa, fire pits, lighting and all plant materials. The client’s personal art collection required special attention and planning to incorporate the pieces into the project.

www.fossilprojectservices.com

Participants in this category: This was the largest category in the awards, with eighteen projects submitted. Congratulations to everyone that participated! ns du Les Artisa bec (QC) Que Paysage du

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The CNLA directory has moved online. Visit http://directory.cnlaacpp.ca to search our extensive member listing categorized by province, business type and company name. The CNLA directory also provides an excellent opportunity to promote products and services to the green industry - visit www.cnla-acpp.ca/ membershipguide for details.

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Caterpillar Award of Excellence for Commercial Landscape Construction/Installation Winner: Flynn Canada Ltd. for “City Hall Green Roof” in Ontario

Project Description: Due to safety and security concerns, Toronto City Hall’s podium had been closed to the public for most of the past few decades. The newly-constructed podium green roof is a large part of the city’s central Square Revitalization Project, and now offers a 50,000 square foot green roof amenity space for visitors of this popular tourist attraction. It is the largest publicly accessible green roof in the city, and is sure to be a landmark for years to come.

www.flynn.ca

Participants in this category:

rings Cedar Sp up (ON) e Gro Landscap

Down to Garde Earth Landscap ning & ing LTD. (NS)

A WISE BUSINESS MOVE ON DAY 1. DOWNRIGHT GENIUS ON DAY 1,671.

ey Delta Vall& Lawn ing Landscap LTD. (AB) es ic Serv

El Landscapmsdale ing LTD. (NS)

YOUR INVESTMENT GETS SMARTER EVERY YEAR.

Designed Forestellapes (ON) Landsc

Land Russell’s (NL) Design

A Cat® Skid Steer Loader proves its value day in and day out. It delivers lower owning and operating costs thanks to a standard foot throttle pedal and on demand cooling fan. The new Cat D Series models are powerful machines for heavy duty, hardscape jobs. They feature the industry leading Intelligent Leveling™ system providing dual direction self leveling, return to dig and work tool positioner. And of course, the field proven Cat durability means that you’ll have this machine for a long, long time.

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*To redeem your discount, please present your CNLA member I.D. to your local Cat dealer at time of quote. This offer applies to new Cat machines and select new work tool attachments purchased by members of the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association members before December 31, 2012. Limit of one credit per new Cat machine and one credit per new work tool purchased. Offer available on new quotes only and not to be combined with any other offer. Contact your local dealer to see the complete discount pricing available per model. Subject to credit approval. Valid only at Cat dealer locations in the USA and Canada. Subject to change without prior notice.

Red Oak Landscap ing (PEI)

CAT, CATERPILLAR, their respective logos, Intelligent Leveling, “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. © 2012 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved.

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John Deere Award of Excellence for Commercial Landscape Maintenance Winner: The Cultivated Garden for “A1 Label” in Ontario

Project Description: A1 Label is a 1950’s early modernism industrial building renovated and landscaped in the 1990s. There are two outdoor courtyards, one is surrounded by a large neatly-pruned cedar hedge planted inside and out with ornamental grasses, flowering shrubs and perennials. The other courtyard is below grade and surrounded above by a pruned Taxus hedge with the focal point a large ipe and glass goblet art piece.

www.thecultivatedgarden.com

Participants in this category:

Boot’s Landscaping & Maintenance Ltd. (Ontario)

NO MATTER WHO YOU ARE there is a Z9 built for you.

Para Space Landscaping Inc. (British Columbia)

Z900 B SERIES

ULS Landscaping & Maintenance Inc. (Alberta)

Z900 R SERIES Z900 M SERIES

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Murray’s Landscape Services (Newfoundland and Labrador)

Call your John Deere dealer today and discover which one is right for your business.

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John Deere Award of Excellence for Residential Landscape Maintenance Winner: Snider Turf & Landscape Care Ltd. for “Clachmore Haus” in Ontario

Project Description: This property set in the centre of the city is complimented by a multitude of gardens and annual containers. The pool and cabana are the centres of interest in the rear yard with complimentary colours and textures throughout the property. Dividing and moving perennials is now becoming a yearly event, but this allows us to make new gardens and continue to enhance existing ones.

www.snidertlc.com

Participants in this category:

(British Columbia)

(Ontario)

Canadian The Great Company Ltd. ing Landscap

scape Inc. Dr. Land

dening & Earth Gar Down to dscaping LTD. n La

(Nova Scotia)

(New Brunswick)

(Ontario) ndscape Green La Heritage ntractors Co

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Thank you to Fern Ridge Landscaping & Eco-Consulting and Native Plant Source for sharing how their companies represent the Green for Life motto.

Fern Ridge Landscaping Landscape Ontario member, Fern Ridge Landscaping and Eco-Consulting, specializes in quality design and construction. Fern Ridge is committed to putting its expertise to use in the community by educating individuals and clients on the use of native species, and demonstrating the beauty of sustainable gardens. Shawn James, president of Fern Ridge Landscaping has been gardening professionaly since age 16. He is a graduate of the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture, a Master Gardener and the two-time past President of the Milton & District Horticultural Society. Here’s what he had to say about his company being Green for Life: We have been collaborating with homeowners and conservation authorities to implement eco-landscaping projects throughout southern Ontario. The goal is to boost the ‘green’ reputation of landscapers while helping to show the public that eco-friendly can also mean beautiful. For example, we recently worked together with Credit Valley Conservation to install a rainwater garden in the parking lot of the Portico Church in Mississauga. The garden has improved the aesthetic appeal of the site, while providing numerous ecological benefits related to reduced water runoff. Educating the public, for Fern Ridge, is very much about being able to point to examples of beautiful and eco-friendly projects. - Sean James

Native Plant Source Based in the Kitchener-Waterloo area, Native Plant Source is a native plant nursery and landscape construction company. Also a member of Landscape Ontario, their focus is to create attractive sustainable landscapes and low maintenance, environmentally sustainable solutions for challenging sites.

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Winter 2013

Jeff Thompson, owner of Native Plant Source, is on the executive for the Waterloo Chapter of Landscape Ontario. He runs two workshops each year instructing on the use of Native Trees and Shrubs in Landscaping as well as the Art and Science of Creating Sustainable Landscapes. He also teaches an Advanced Ecological Restoration field course at the University of Waterloo, donates staff and resources to Trees for Learning, is on the Kitchener-Waterloo Storm water management committee, the Chamber of Commerce and the School Boards for Evergreen Initiatives in local schools. Here’s what Jeff had to say about Native Plant Source being Green for Life: Our staff have used our knowledge of plants, botany, arborculture and ecology to mimic natural systems and recreate them in the urban enviornment. Our clients have called upon us to design and install bioremideation solutions for contaminated sites. As well, we have been a member of the team for the development of a constructed wetland for the treatment of Glycol used in de-icing aircraft at Pearson Airport. We are continuing to create innovative ways to clean and treat contimated storm water. The technologies we have created through the use of plants and landscape techniques are now being exported to the USA. As well, Native Plant Source re-created a nine acre tall grass prairie for the Union Gas Brantford facility which is considered one of the best examples of sustainable landscapes in Canada. - Jeff Thompson

The first Green for Life Community Award was selected by CNLA’s Public Relations Committee to be given to two community groups that dedicated their time and passion towards returning the “green” to St. James Park following the Occupy Toronto movement. In December 2011, members Alan White and Kyle Tobin helped organize over 150 volunteers from the landscaping community and local community groups to revitalize the park - In just two short days the park was cleaned, compacted soil was aerated and amended, mature trees and shrubs were pruned and mulched and fresh sod was laid throughout the entire park. Last April, the volunteers returned, armed with rakes, wheelbarrows, soil and seed, to perform some maintenance on the newly revitalized green space. Working closely on the project with Landscape Ontario was local business owner Rachel Young, who co-founded “The Friends of St. James Park” community group. After the occupation, local residents and businesses could not use the park, which is a vital link for the members of the community. Rachel’s vision to restore the park was so important for the success of this project. Additionally, the St. Lawrence Market BIA stepped up and helped out by providing lunch for the numerous volunteers during both of the park revitalization events. Thank-you to “The Friends of St. James Park” and the St. Lawrence Market BIA for their contributions to this project, and for believing in the power of green spaces.

Are you Green for Life? Does your company reflect the green for life lifestyle? Let us know! Send an email to anne@cnla-acpp.ca or call 1-888446-3499 and share how your company is promoting the joys and benefits of plants and landscapes.

CNLA hands out the first ever Green for Life Community Award

Bob Kemp from the St. Lawrence Market BIA accepted the Green for Life Community Award from CNLA 1st Vice President, Rene Thiebaud.

CNLA members nationwide are active in their communities, and work with many different organizations that work hard to maintain and beautify the areas where they live, work and play.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

defend against fraud and abuse. Every card carries PIN-protected security and 24/7 online access lets you change, suspend or even cancel cards whenever you need to. Real Time Purchase Control SuperPass gives you the power to set limits and restrictions on fuel and non-fuel purchases by vehicle or driver, by day, time, location and more. Plus, you can instantly modify card restrictions online 24/7. These purchase controls can amount to significant cost savings. Refer to the table to see how purchase controls can help save you money.

Manage your company vehicles effectively and efficiently

Customizable Reporting SuperPass gives you the information you need, the way you need it, when you need it. Get access to over 30 reports you can customize and then distribute seamlessly via email, to reduce data entry and save time.

In our industry’s fast paced business environment, companies require solutions that help simplify the workday. This is especially true when it comes to managing your company’s vehicles. Ensuring your trucks are fueled up and can get to the worksite on time is an integral part of business. But it doesn’t stop there. You also need to control your expenses in order to improve your bottom line. Receiving a monthly statement of fuel purchases isn’t enough. You need to be able to set specific purchase controls. You need to be able to suspend or cancel cards with the click of a button. You need customized reports that can be distributed effortlessly. In short, you need a fleet management program that is simple, yet effective. Petro-Canada’s™ SuperPass™ program has everything you need for effective fleet management with just one card. Enhanced Security SuperPass provides protection that helps

CNLA’s member savings programs, including Petro-Canada, offer members significant savings on products and services to help your business run more effectively and efficiently. As a member of the CNLA, you may be eligible for fuel and car wash discounts. For more information about the SuperPass Program, please call Andreanne Gendron, Account Manager, at 1-877-777-7252 ext. 3966 or visit the Petro-Canada page on the CNLA website at www.cnla-acpp.ca/ petrocanada. Petro-Canada is a Suncor Energy business. ™Trademark of Suncor Energy Inc. Used under licence.

Employers become more efficient with electronic Records of Employment (ROEs) Are you still filling out paper Records of Employment (ROEs)? Forget the paper! ROE Web is a secure and easy-to-use Web-based application that lets payroll administrators create, submit, and amend ROEs online.

Largest Network Access SuperPass is accepted at over 1,500 retail service stations and more than 240 truck stops. One card works at both retail service stations and card lock locations, plus at over 1,500 truck stops in the U.S. Day in and day out, SuperPass gives you the power to control expenses and puts valuable information at your fingertips. The kind of information that gives you more control over the costs that impact your bottom line. It’s the only card you need for effective fleet management.

Service Canada developed ROE Web to make it easier for employers to fill out ROEs and simplify the processing of workers’ Employment Insurance claims. The benefits of ROE Web include: • increased productivity and time savings; • reduced paper burden; • filing flexibility; • improved ROE quality and accuracy; • ease of use; and • security. Follow these steps to get started using ROE Web Whether you are a large or small company, you need to register with Service Canada to start issuing your ROEs electronically through ROE Web. 1. Complete – The registration form, which is available on the Service Canada website, must be completed and signed. On the form, an ROE Web administrator, called a Primary Officer, must be named to manage the ROE Web account on behalf of the organization. 2. Visit – The Primary Officer must visit a Service Canada Centre and provide two continued on next page

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continued from page 11 pieces of identification (one with a photo) and the registration form. 3. Activate – Within 20 business days of submitting the form, the Primary Officer will receive an activation code and instructions on how to activate the ROE Web account. 4. Access – The first time the Primary Officer accesses the ROE Web account, he or she will have two login options. The Primary Officer can log in using a GCKey, the new Government of Canada secure credential, or a Sign-In Partner identification that enables users to access online government programs and services using a login they may already have with a financial institution. Sign in and start enjoying all the benefits and security of ROE Web! Learn more To learn more about ROE Web and how to register, or to get answers to frequently asked questions, visit servicecanada.gc.ca/ roeweb or call the Employer Contact Centre at 1-800-367-5693 (TTY: 1-855-881-9874).

New member programs! RELINKS, Coface Collections and CLC Lodging RELINKS and ActSoft CNLA and RELINKS have partnered to offer its Canadian members a discount program on Actsoft’s Comet Suite of software. Actsoft solutions utilize the latest advances in mobile GPS technologies to improve workforce productivity, better manage assets and workers, control operating costs and mitigate risks, using Smart Phones and Tablets. Members save 10% off of the Canadian List Price. www.cnla-acpp.ca/relinks Coface Canada Collections Coface is a global provider of credit insurance and credit management solutions, serving 135,000 companies in over 90 countries. Coface Canada helps companies -- of all sizes, in all industries -- minimize the risk of trading on credit. Their three main areas of business are credit insurance, credit reporting and collections services.

CNLA members receive special C.A.R.E. pricing. C.A.R.E is a low-cost, internet based program to help you quickly recover accounts less than 120 days old, increasing cash flow and minimizing your need for collections. Age is the single most critical factor in the collectability of a delinquent account. CNLA members pay $39 per collection unit (as compared to $89 regular price) and 80% return back on collections made for the member (Coface collects 20%). www.cnla-acpp.ca/coface CLC Lodging Use your CLC Lodging CheckINN Card to save 20-40% off the lowest published rates from more than 10,000 leading economy and mid-scale hotels nationwide. CLC is the nation’s leading negotiator of workforce lodging rates, delivering deep discounts from its consolidated purchasing power of nearly $500 million annually. Contact the CNLA Membership Team for a keycode to waive the enrollment fee! www.cnla-acpp.ca/clclodging

Garden Centres Corner Canada Blooms Discounted payment processing contest winner announced! rates with Chase Paymentech The Retail Council of Canada (RCC) offers CNLA members access to select group discount programs, training resources, free webinars, discounts on RCC event rates and more! Included in this are discounted rates with Chase PaymentechTM. Enjoy discounts on Interac® transaction rates*, MasterCard® and Visa® merchant discount rates*. View specific rate details at www.retailcouncil.org/memberservices. Contact the CNLA Member Services team for login information.

Norma St John of Kingston, Ontario is the grand prize winner of a trip for two to Canada Blooms - Norma and a guest will receive four days/three nights at the InterContinental Hotel, two VIA Rail Train Tickets, as well as Daily Tickets to Canada Blooms. Congratulations! Thank you to our member garden centres across the country that participated in our first contest. For more information on Canada Blooms visit www.canadablooms.com.

Join us ‘Down Under’! Plan to attend the 2013 International Garden Centre Association Congress being held in Melbourne, Australia, October 6-11, 2013! Hosted by the Garden Centre Association of Australia, it promises to be an excellent tour showcasing some of the best garden centres in Melbourne, wonderful venues for dinner and events, afternoon tea at Government House, and of course, all of this with traditional Australian hospitality! We hope you join us! Early bird rates available until March 31, 2013. Register at www.igcacongress.com.

*conditions apply.

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landscape industry

certified

Certification Corner

NEW Exam for Lawn Care Technicians

Recently Certified Ilan Dobsky, CLP Gordon Smith, CLP Colleen Tataryn, CHT Shawn Tuttle, CLT Michael Van Dongen, CHT Sarah Willits, CLT

The Landscape Industry Certified Lawn Care Technician exam is the newest exam available to individuals across Canada and the USA. This credential is directly linked to the practice of the profession and reflects what you should already know as a lawn care practitioner. Like all of the Landscape Industry Certified designations, this exam is based on the principles of validity (how close it relates to the job), reliability (how objective the test is) and defensibility (how well it holds up to scrutiny). The first step in this is always development of an occupational standard. Using a panel of subject matter experts, from as wide a cross-section of industry as possible. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions focusing on the following topics: • Turfgrass, weed, pest, and disease identification • Pest control strategies, economic impact thresholds, and cultural practices • Ability to read labels and guidelines and calculate area to be treated (basic math skills) • Basic soil science and soil sampling • Application techniques • Environmental and weather impact of applied products • Regulatory compliance • Proper loading, accident procedures, reports, and spill management • Vehicle and equipment maintenance • Basic sales and customer communications Exams will be available across the country as part of scheduled written test dates. Please visit www.landscapeindustrycertified.org to find a test date near you and to download an application form.

ON BC ON ON ON ON

*as of February 6, 2013

Now available: Landscape Design Manual How pro are you? Landscape Ontario has started a new campaign highlighting the hard work and dedication that goes into becoming Landscape Industry Certified. As part of this campaign, they teamed up with sponsor Clintar Landscape Management and created a video trailer that promotes certification. This is a great promotional piece that will help attract a new demographic to our industry, and it is being shown across North America. We thank Landscape Ontario and Clintar Landscape Management for this great video and their commitment to certification! To watch the video, please visit www.horttrades.com/certified

Launched at Landscape Ontario Congress in January, the new Landscape Design Manual has been an instant success. This manual can be a preparation tool for candidates taking the Landscape Industry Certified Designer exam and portfolio review, but it can also be a great resource for anyone interested in landscape design. The manual comes with a DVD, which includes photos, and sample designs. It can currently be purchased through Landscape Ontario. Visit www.horttrades.com/landscape-industrycertified or call 1-800-265-5656 to order your copy today!

CERTIFICATION TEST DATES Plan ahead for upcoming certification test dates. The following locations will be holding exams for industry’s future Landscape Industry Certified Technicians, Designers and Managers. A few locations will also offer the new Retail Horticulturist exam. Visit www.landscapeindustrycertified.com for more information and links to exam applications.

WRITTEN AND PRACTICAL: March 1-2

Victoria, BC

March 22

Toronto, ON (written only)

March 27

London, ON (written only)

March 29

Windsor, ON (written only)

March 26-27

Olds, AB

April 19-20

Truro, NS

CNLA Newsbrief

sponsored by:

Winter 2013

Growers Corner Spring is just around the corner; are you in compliance with all CFIA regulations? Calls to the CNLA office from grower members about various CFIA-related matters are always a sure sign that spring and the busy shipping season are just around the corner. We encourage all growers, and especially those that deal with US companies for both imports and exports, to log on regularly to the CNLA website for updates on various issues that may have a direct impact on your business. Of particular note for this coming season: Bamboo stakes Growers were notified in the spring of 2011 about restrictions on the export of nursery products associated with bamboo stakes. Although these were not new regulations, they were once again being enforced by USDA. The somewhat erratic nature of this enforcement is the cause of much confusion, but growers should always assume these regulations will be enforced. More details are posted on the website.

Similar regulations are now being enforced by CFIA related to the import of bamboo stakes or nursery stock associated with bamboo stakes. In summary, treated bamboo product can be imported, but the regulations related to proof of treatment are not always straightforward. It is recommended that nurseries intending to import product containing bamboo stakes refer to the CNLA website for further details on the information that will be required of their suppliers for trouble-free import of these products (www.cnla-acpp.ca/ growers). Wooden pallets and packaging International regulations as specified in ISPM No. 15 now require that wooden pallets, crates and other packaging be heat treated to prevent the spread of pests. The presence of an internationally recognized logo commonly referred to as the “wheat sheaf” verifies treatment in accordance with these regulations. The only exception to these international standards is the movement of product between Canada and the US. Both countries are currently moving

BY RITA WEERDENBURG

towards a harmonized implementation strategy. This was originally scheduled to take effect in 2012, with a “soft” implementation for the first year resulting only in a notification of infraction and full implementation to begin in 2013. That date has now been pushed back to start in 2015. See the CNLA website for more details; updates will be posted as they become available. Import permits Each year, the CNLA office receives calls from importing nurseries that encounter problems with incoming shipments of plants due to incomplete Import Permits. You are reminded to advise your suppliers that plants not listed on the Import Permit are not allowed entry to Canada and so will need to be returned or destroyed. Import Permits cannot be amended once product arrives in Canada, however, in the event of an emergency it may be possible to amend permits while product is in transit. Further information can be provided by your local CFIA inspector.

Coin de producteurs

Le printemps est à nos portes; êtes-vous conforme à tous les règlements de l’ACIA? Des appels de producteurs membres au bureau de l’ACPP au sujet des différentes questions reliées à l’ACIA sont toujours un signe que le printemps et la haute saison de livraison sont à nos portes. Nous invitons donc tous les producteurs et particulièrement ceux qui transigent avec des entreprises américaines autant pour l’importation que l’exportation, à visiter régulièrement le site Web de l’ACPP afin de se tenir informés des mises à jour sur les différentes questions qui peuvent avoir un impact direct sur leurs activités commerciales. Pour la saison qui approche, il faut signaler en particulier : Bouchots de bambou Les producteurs ont été avisés au printemps 2011 des restrictions apportées sur l’exportation des produits de pépinière reliés aux bouchots de bambou. Bien qu’il ne s’agisse pas de nouveaux règlements, ceux-ci venaient d’être mis en vigueur de nouveau par le département de l’Agricultures des États-Unis. La nature quelque peu erratique de cette mise en vigueur cause beaucoup de confusion, mais les producteurs

devraient toujours présumer que ces règlements seront mis en application. Vous trouverez plus de détails à ce sujet sur le site Web. Des règlements similaires sont maintenant appliqués par l’ACIA relativement à l’importation des bouchots de bambou ou des produits de pépinière reliés aux bouchots de bambou. En résumé, les produits de bouchot de bambou peuvent être importés, mais les règlements reliés à la preuve de traitement ne sont pas toujours clairs. Nous recommandons donc aux pépinières désirant importer des produits contenant des bouchots de bambou de consulter le site Web de l’ACPP pour avoir plus de détails sur les renseignements qui seront requis des fournisseurs pour une importation sans problème de ces produits (www.cnla-acpp.ca/growers). Palettes de bois et emballages Les règlements internationaux tel que précisés par la norme 15 de la NIMP stipulent que les palettes de bois, les caisses et d’autre types d’emballage doivent être traités thermiquement afin d’empêcher la propagation d’organismes nuisibles. La présence d’un logo internationalement reconnu et communément appelé « la gerbe de blé » confirme le traitement conforme à ces règlements. La circulation des produits entre le Canada et les É.-U. constitue la

PAR RITA WEERDENBURG

seule exception à ces normes internationales. Les deux pays sont actuellement en voie d’appliquer une stratégie de mise en œuvre harmonisée. La prise en effet était initialement prévue en 2012, avec une mise en œuvre transitoire pour la première année alors que seuls des avis d’infraction ne seraient donnés et que la mise en application complète ne devait avoir lieu qu’en 2013. Cette date a maintenant été reportée au début de 2015. Veuillez consulter le site Web pour obtenir plus de détails car des mises à jour y seront présentées au rythme de leur disponibilité. Permis d’importation Chaque année, le bureau de l’ACPP reçoit des appels de pépinières importatrices qui éprouvent des problèmes à l’arrivée de plantes en raison de permis d’importation incomplets. Nous aimerions vous rappeler d’aviser vos fournisseurs que les plantes ne figurant pas sur le permis d’importation ne sont pas admises au Canada et qu’elles doivent être retournées ou détruites. Les permis d’importation ne peuvent pas être modifiés à l’arrivée des produits au Canada. Il est toutefois possible qu’en cas d’urgence, d’apporter des modifications aux permis pendant le transport des produits. Votre inspecteur local de l’ACPP peut vous procurer plus de renseignements à ce sujet.

CNLA Newsbrief

sponsored by:

Winter 2013

Landscapers Corner This issue is packed with information! To continue reading the articles below, please visit www.cnla-acpp.ca/landscapers

Landscape Horticulture Technician (Diploma): Program Benchmark Input deadline extendend! A standardized curriculum benchmark was developed for landscape horticulture twoyear diploma programs and the present public comment period has been extended one last time for industry professionals to provide input no later than April 30, 2013. The objective of accreditation through the Canadian Accreditation Board (CTAB) is to provide consistency among programs, raise the standards of education among colleges (internally for budgeting and externally for recruitment) and to have industry input into the development of the final benchmark standard. For more information and to provide input go to the Landscapers page on the CNLA website at www.cnla-acpp.ca/landscapers and scroll to “Click here to provide input”.

sustainable urban development should be investigated scientifically, according to ELCA. The European landscape gardeners have received dedicated support from the European Parliamentarians for their demand to the European Union (EU) to make the corresponding financial funds available within the framework of the planned research program, Horizon 2020. ELCA celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2013! At the time of this Newbrief publication, CNLA is planning on having representation at ELCA’s Congress, May 30, 2013 in Hamburg Germany and ELCA’s Professional excursion of the ELCACommittee of Firms May 31 – June 2, 2013. CNLA is also investigating the possibility of attending and inviting members to join the ELCA Study Trip to New York October 19 – 25, 2013. Stay tuned for more information and check out this link for the tour itinerary. http://www.elca.info/en/study_trip_new_ york.pdfx?

2012 Landscape Canada Survey

Canadian Master Gardener Conference

The new survey for the 2012 fiscal year is now available for completion. The direct link to the 2012 survey is https://www. surveymonkey.com/s/LCC-2012

The inaugural national conference of the Master Gardeners (MG) is being hosted by the Master Gardeners of Ontario Inc., on April 5 – 7, 2013 at the Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville, Ontario.

European Landscape Contractors Association (ELCA) Update: Horizon 2020 to be used to research the effect of urban green spaces! Horizon 2020 is the financial venture implementing the Innovation Union, a Europe 2020 flagship initiative aimed at securing Europe’s global competitiveness. Running from 2014 to 2020 with an €80 billion budget, the EU’s new programme for research and innovation is part of the drive to create new growth and jobs in Europe. Horizon 2020 will combine all research and innovation funding currently provided through the Framework Programmes for Research and Technical Development, the innovation related activities of the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme (CIP) and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT). ELCA and Horizon 2020: How urban greenery can effectively contribute to improving the climate in urban areas and

Master Gardener is an allied international federation of provincial and state volunteer organizations, comprised of dedicated horticulturists, who provide gardening information to the general public. They are committed to helping cultivate new gardeners and share their knowledge to help others gain a greater knowledge of horticulture and the wonders of gardening. A certification exam and fulfilling a mandatory number of volunteer hours are required to maintain Certified Master Gardeners status. Many members volunteer their time and talents to assist CNLA provincial member associations with industry events, trade shows and volunteer for Q and A sessions at garden centres, or partner with community park and school greening projects. The first National MG Conference will present Awards of Excellence to local MG groups in Canada to recognize outstanding projects that demonstrate excellence in the

BY LIZ KLOSE BSC. AGR, CLP

delivery of MG services to the public. The awards, modeled after the International Master Gardeners Search for Excellence Awards, recognize and applaud the great work that is being done throughout the country by local MG groups and will provide ideas and motivation for other groups to broaden their activities. In support of the Master Gardeners’ first national conference, and specifically their first National Awards of Excellence, the following have sponsored the these award categories: Innovative Projects: Canadian Nursery Landscape Association Community Service: Landscape Ontario ‘Green for Life’ Programs: Vineland Research and Innovation Centre Workshops or Presentations: Liz Klose, Honorary Master Gardener of Ontario Inc. For more information on the Canadian Master Gardener Conference, to offer your support, to attend or to learn more about the Awards of Excellence, visit: www.mgoinationalconference.ca

Klosing Comments This Newsbrief issue will bring ‘Klosing Comments’ to a close. It has been a privilege to work for CNLA and the membership it serves. The experience has been enjoyable, exciting and rewarding. I am thankful for the many lasting friendships with colleagues all across Canada and the work that we have achieved together during my years with CNLA. I truly admire and value the exemplary work of the committed volunteers, visionary board governance and the dedication of all the CNLA staff for championing the ventures for betterment of our industry and you, our members. In my continued role as Director of MUN Botanical Garden in St. John’s Newfoundland, I look forward to continuing my dedication and commitment to CNLA objectives, pledge my volunteer time to assist LNL and, with the engagement of a dedicated staff team, bring success and prosperity to the Botanical Garden. Home base will be in Niagara on the Lake with my husband Gerald – I will just have a longer commute to work now! My new work contact information is: garden@mun.ca (which does not accept hotmail email addresses) Phone: 709-864-3326.

CNLA Newsbrief

sponsored by:

Winter 2013

Industry events NORTH AMERICA February 26-28: Landscape New Brunswick All Commodity Education Session (ACES), IPM Symposium: Sussex, NB www.landscapenbmember.com February 27: BCLNA Professional Development Day: VanDusen Botanical Gardens Visitor Centre, Victoria, BC www.bclna.com March 8: Green Pro Conference (Landscape Alberta Awards of Excellence ceremony and AGM): Calgary, AB www.landscape-alberta.com

March 14-15: Landscape Saskatchewan Conference and AGM: Saskatoon, SK www.snla.ca March 15-24: Canada Blooms: Direct Energy Centre, Toronto, ON www.canadablooms.com March 21: Landscape Newfoundland and Labrador Awards of Excellence and All Commodity Educations Session (ACES): St. John’s, NL www.landscapenl.org

Innovation at work. For over 85 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 23: Landscape New Brunswick 10th Annual Awards Gala: Ramada Inn (Crystal Palace), Moncton, NB www.landscapenbmember.com

Sales & Service

www.stihl.ca

April 5-7: Garden and Patio Show: Exhibition Park, Halifax, NS www.landscapenovascotia.ca/garden_pat

NumberOneSellIngAd.indd 1

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February 20-24: Northwest Flower & Garden Show: Washington State Convention Center, Seattle, WA, USA www.gardenshow.com March 5-6: Michigan Green Industry Association Trade Show and Convention: Suburban Collection Showplace, Novi, MI www.landscape.org/trade_show.cfm

40042205

www.cnla-acpp.ca/events

INTERNATIONAL

* #1 Selling Brand in Canada is based on an independent market share analysis of imported gasoline powered handheld outdoor power equipment for the year 2011.