Landscape Trades

LOCK IN YOUR SUPPLY

As winter approaches, weather experts are predicting a more traditional winter, influenced by La Niña, with increased snowfall and icy conditions. At Draglam Salt, we don’t just react o these changes; we anticipate them. By closely monitoring weather trends and utilizing our extensive insights, we ensure your business s well-prepared for the winter months. Our proactive approach and deep expertise prepares you for whatever winter has in store.

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU

For over 30 years, Draglam Salt has been rusted to keep Canadians safe from reacherous winter conditions. Our Mission to upply quality salt products and dependable ervice never wavers. We are confident in our ability to lead you through this upcoming winter eason. By anticipating weather patterns, we ensure that our inventory is stocked and ready o meet the demands of the season, providing you with timely and reliable solutions.

& ICE

COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

Kali Pearson

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Mike Wasilewski

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Robert Ellidge

MANAGING EDITOR, MULTIMEDIA

Karina Sinclair

GRAPHIC DESIGN ASSOCIATE

Aisha Shaikh

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Greg Sumsion

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Liz Lant

COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

Angela Lindsay

DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST

Charlotte Guena

ACCOUNTANT

Joe Sabatino

STAFF CONTACT INFO AT LANDSCAPETRADES.COM/CONTACT

ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Gerald Boot CLM, Lindsay Drake Nightingale, Jeremy Feenstra, Mark Fisher, Hank Gelderman CHT, Nick Winkelmolen

Landscape Trades is published by Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association 7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 comments@landscapetrades.com www.landscapetrades.com

Landscape Trades is published six times a year: February, March, May, August, October and December.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES:

One year – $46.90 | Two years – $84.74 | Three years – $118.64 HST included.

Retain seasonal workers with year-round engagement.

Using halophytes for salt remediation.

BARB ZEEB

Notes from the Canadian delegation to Floriales Internationales.

PAUL BRYDGES

Providing sod for Ontario road and sewer projects since 1975! We understand the logistics involved with these projects and we also know that punctuality is essential when cities, regions and municipalities are involved. We help you receive quick sign-offs from consultants & engineers.

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Sunny days are here — but snow won’t be far behind…

BY KALI PEARSON

SUMMER IS IN FULL SWING

and landscape professionals are actively designing and installing projects. From gardens and hardscapes to irrigation and lighting systems, ours is a profession that helps people to make the most of their outdoor spaces. But as customers fire up their barbecues with a cold beverage in hand, many professionals are already thinking about the frosty snow and ice season ahead.

Whether you own, operate or work for a business that specializes exclusively or seasonally on snow and ice management, this edition of Landscape Trades is for you. Writer Karina Sinclair has compiled the ultimate snow and ice survival guide (starting on page 22) to help you get ready and stay healthy this winter season. From sleep, to snacks, to the latest safety advice and gear, this guide has you covered.

We also spoke with some inspiring women in the snow and ice sector about how they charted their own unique paths in the sector. With more women entering the snow and ice management workforce than ever — and playing a role in advocating for changes that will benefit everyone — we are seeing the unique value women can bring to snow and ice management. Turn to page 32 for more. This month, we also share advice from

business coach Ryan Markowich on how to encourage seasonal workers to return year after year (page 40). Dr. Lyndsay Cartwright and her team speak to the role of Halophytes in salt remediation (page 44); and Mikayel Ter-Grigoryan, a speaker at this year’s Snowposium trade show, speaks up about his Redefine Blue Collar movement in our Mentor Moment on page 58.

As always, you can catch up on industry news starting on page 12 and check out some new products on page 54 (including some of our favourites to make working in the cold a little warmer). Read what our friends at the CNLA have been up to for the industry on page 48 and travel to Floralies Internationales in Nantes, France with landscape architect Paul Brydges via his report on page 46.

We wish you a sunny and productive summer — and a great snow and ice season ahead! LT

KPearson

P.S. We’re thrilled to share that Landscape Trades earned an honourable mention at this year’s National Magazine Awards for Karina Sinclair’s article “Changing With the Times”. We are also proud winners of three Silver Laurel Winners from GardenComm for two features: “A Brave New World” in our January issue, “Catching Fire: How Thoughtful Landscaping Can Protect Homes” in our October issue as well as Best Magazine for our October 2023 New Plants and Grounds Management issue.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your article on Woonerf [May 2024, page 22].

I love this concept and have tried pushing that entire agenda for decades. Your article, complete with Adam Bienenstock’s influence, among others, really resonated with me, and has reminded me not to give up trying to influence the direction of old perceptions of ‘people places,’ as opposed to our generational mindset of ‘vehicle flow’ trumping all else.

It is somewhat of a bright spot on the design horizon for urban landscapes, which I find quite encouraging.

I very much appreciate your influence in these journals. Again, your views and opinions expressed so eloquently in Landscape Trades are truly relevant and inspiring.

- Randy Tumber, APLD, CLD, CHT, ISA

If you have feedback, story ideas or thoughts for future issues, reach out to editor@landscapetrades.com and let's chat!

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LT Picks

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DESIGNarch 2024

HIGHLIGHTED INNOVATION AND COLLABORATION IN HARDSCAPING

On May 30, 2024, DESIGNarch 2024 brought together industry leaders from architecture, design, contracting and landscape supply sectors to explore the latest trends and innovations shaping the field. Hosted at the 5,000+ sq ft outdoor STONEarch and Porcea Stone Design Showroom in Bolton, Ont., the event offered opportunities for learning, networking and business growth. This year, hundreds of guests from across the landscape community including architects, designers, contractors and landscape suppliers joined the event, making it a significant gathering for professionals looking to elevate their craft.

CELEBRATING AND EMPOWERING WOMEN IN DESIGN

“This year's theme of Celebrating Elegance in Design, empowering women in landscape, is one small step in pushing our industry forward,” Aayush Goel, sales manager of Porcea Stone said in a press release. Recognizing the male dominance in the field, the event aimed to promote and encourage the contributions of women in landscape design and construction. By highlighting the achievements of women, DESIGNarch 2024 sought to inspire more inclusive practices within the industry. The theme highlighted the integration of softscaping, hardscaping and landscape lighting, demonstrating how these elements come together to create truly elegant landscapes. This holistic approach underscored the importance of diversity

in achieving design excellence. Goel added, “DESIGNarch serves as the foundation for innovation where new design ideas are shared and innovative products are launched.”

The event featured eight remarkable speakers, of which six were women, from various backgrounds, including designers, architects and suppliers. These experts shared their expertise and experiences on everything from S-shaped granite curbs to rooftop applications, from clientcentric best practices to designing harmonious spaces.

DESIGNarch 2024 reinforced the importance of innovation, collaboration and inclusivity in the industry. The event showcased the potential of partnerships and the power of design to transform spaces. Attendees left with new ideas, connections and inspiration to implement in their future projects. The diverse range of topics and speakers ensured that there was something valuable for everyone.

“DESIGNarch is a testament to the magic of collaboration. By bringing together hundreds of leading landscape architects, designers, contractors and suppliers, we are showcasing the power of innovation when we collaborate,” Arun Goel, CEO of STONEarch said. “At STONEarch, we are committed to inspire visionary projects with the most curated and leading collection of natural stone. Let us foster a culture where collaboration is a norm for the industry. Together, let’s shape the landscape of tomorrow.”

WORKING IN SMOKY CONDITIONS

According to Natural Resources Canada, the 2023 wildfire season was the most destructive ever recorded. By September 5, more than 6,132 fires had torched a staggering 16.5 million hectares of land.

Wildfire smoke can be challenging to work in, and presents potential health effects. Common symptoms of exposure to smoke include sore throat, running nose, mild cough, eye irritation, wheezy breathing and headaches. Those with underlying conditions may experience more severe symptoms. Try to limit strenuous work when possible, however when outdoor work is necessary in smoky conditions, look for ways to reduce workers’ physical activity levels as much as possible since physical exertion can increase air intake. Minimize risk with strategic planning and awareness of the conditions when you are at work in a smoky environment. Managing the time, day, work location and conditions when performing or assigning various tasks is one practical way to attend to the necessary activities of the day.

BUY

Worksafe BC offers a publication outlining frequently asked questions from employers around working in smoky conditions. The information is to help employers understand the hazards associated with exposure to smoke, and outlines measures they can take to minimize worker exposures. To read and download the resource, visit

DÜMMEN ORANGE REVEALS AMBITIOUS SUSTAINABILITY GOALS NEWSSCAPE

With the publication Growing Together 2024, Dümmen Orange underlines the company's continuous sustainability efforts. Using a number of concrete examples, the magazine shows how and where Dümmen Orange is working to achieve the ambitious sustainability goals that the company has set for itself.

Dümmen Orange's sustainability strategy revolves around three key areas: Environment, with an emphasis on minimizing ecological impact; Social, with an emphasis on the wellbeing of employees and the communities in which the company operates; and Technology Development, which focuses on investments in research and technology that drive sustainable progress across the value chain.

As an innovative breeder, the company's focus is on the development and commercialization of stronger, disease-resistant

flower and plant varieties. This is done under the Intrinsa label. Intrinsa — developed at Dümmen Orange's Breeding Technology Center in the Netherlands — uses natural genetics for traits such as disease resistance, better plant performance and improved plant resilience to develop crops for a more sustainable future.

“We are strongly committed to encouraging sustainability and promoting responsible business practices throughout the value chain. We don't just do this with Intrinsa. We also pay attention to the sustainability of our own business processes,” said Ellen Mackenbach-Lakeman, CHRO and responsible for sustainability at Dümmen Orange. “This involves, for example, reducing CO2 emissions, maintaining healthy and safe working conditions at our propagation locations in Africa and Central America, and

properly organizing and controlling processes and working methods. A good example of the latter is Integrated Pest Management, the integration of environmental, biological and safe chemical practices to control insects.”

In recent years, Dümmen Orange has provided extensive insight into its sustainability ambitions, activities and results through annual reports. MackenbachLakeman adds, “As a result of the upcoming European guidelines, this annual reporting now becomes part of our financial annual report. We just don't want to stop there and are committed to show current developments to a broader group of interested parties — not just to readers of financial annual reports. That is why we developed this magazine.”

Growing Together 2024 can be found on the Dümmen Orange website.

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ONTARIO AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE CELEBRATES 150TH ANNIVERSARY

The Ontario Agricultural College (OAC), one of the University of Guelph’s three founding colleges, is celebrating 150 years of history, having opened its doors in May 1874. Today, OAC is a global leader in research and education in food, agriculture, communities and the environment, fulfilling its original ambition to become a world-class institution of higher learning.

From May until the end of 2024, the OAC will celebrate with a range of events, projects and activities that reflect its achievements and vision for the future. They include historical tours through campus, Food Day Canada celebrations and a capstone celebration during Alumni Reunion Weekend in June. The

OAC community — alumni, faculty, staff, students and industry partners — is invited to reconnect with one another and share memories throughout the celebrations.

“The entire University of Guelph community is thrilled to celebrate this significant milestone in our history,” Dr. Charlotte Yates, U of G president and vice-chancellor, said in a press release. “OAC has a proud and rich legacy of developing leaders and cultivating innovation in the global agri-food sector.”

With its first graduating class of only 28 diploma students, held on a 550-acre farm purchased by the province, OAC has grown to over 3,300 students across two campuses and now leverages the network of research centres

owned by the Agricultural Research Institute of Ontario (ARIO) that span the province.

A PROUD AND RICH LEGACY

OAC has always been a leader in innovation, research and teaching to support the agrifood sector as Dr. John Cranfield, acting dean of OAC reflects: “OAC is a beacon of support for those dedicated to nurturing the land, sustaining our communities and safeguarding the environment for future generations,” he said. “With strategic partnerships across various sectors, including government and organizations championing agriculture, food, the environment and rural communities, OAC is poised to continue its important mission.”

Originally named the Ontario School of Agriculture and Experimental Farm, OAC changed its name in 1880 to better reflect its purpose and ambitions. Amidst a world transforming through rapid scientific discoveries, the Ontario government intended the college to secure its place on the world stage. In 1874, it was one of the first schools in Canada to integrate scientific research into farming practices, helping to modernize agriculture across the country.

This commitment continues today as the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance, the collaboration between the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) and U of G.

NORTH AMERICA'S ONLY REMOTE-OPERATED AND AUTONOMOUS INDUSTRIAL SNOW PLOW

Teleo, a company building autonomous technology for heavy construction equipment, and Storm Equipment, one of the largest distributors of commercial snow plow equipment, have introduced the only remoteoperated and autonomous industrial snow plow commercially offered in North America. Canadian companies interested in adopting this system can reach out to teleo.ai/contact to find a local dealer. The companies worked to retrofit a John Deere 332G skid steer loader with Storm Equipment's Metal Pless snow plow blade and Teleo Supervised Autonomy, Teleo's technology that enables remote and autonomous operations. The machine is designed for mass snow clearing in large open areas such as industrial parking lots. Customers

can order the retrofit of any make and model of heavy equipment for remote-operated and autonomous operations from Teleo, along with an autonomous-ready snow plow blade properly sized for each machine type from Storm Equipment.

Once outfitted with Teleo's retrofit kit, the machines are supervised by an operator sitting in a central command centre, a more comfortable and attractive working environment than a traditional snow plow operator working from the equipment's cab on site. The machines are created to help solve staffing shortages in the commercial snow plow industry, where snow contractors are covering larger regions and working long overnight hours, by allowing a single

hired operator to work in multiple regions simultaneously.

"Remote operation of snow plows is a truly disruptive prospect for the industry," said Jordan Smith, owner, Storm Equipment. "Snow removal companies typically don't have just one make or model in their fleets, so the fact that Teleo's technology can be retrofitted onto virtually any make and model of heavy machinery makes it a great option for the industry. Utilizing Teleo's game-changing system, the shrinking pool of skilled snow plow operators can cover a lot more ground in a shorter time period. With the click of a button, they can move to a different loader and plow on a jobsite across town. This effectively could quadruple the productivity of a single skilled

staff member, creating massive operational efficiencies for the snow contractor. This technology could also open up snow plowing opportunities to those who are not already heavy equipment operators. We like to joke that today's streaming gamers could become tomorrow's remote snow plow operators. Simply put, remote-operated and autonomous snow removal demonstrates undeniable value for contractors looking for the best return on their heavy equipment investments."

Fleets of machines that are used for applications such as loading gravel, soil and other bulk materials in warmer months are used to move snow in the winter months. Teleo's technology can be retrofitted on those fleets, introducing the ability to integrate remote and semi-autonomous technology without the need to purchase new machines. The same machines can be used year-round for snow removal, landscaping and other site work. This level of flexibility makes the system scalable and cost effective.

"Commercial snow removal, specifically mass snow clearing in large parking lots and on other long stretches of open, flat surfaces, is yet another ideal application for our technology," said Vinay Shet, co-founder and CEO, Teleo. "When heavy snowfalls occur, there is an immediate need to clear parking lots and commercial sites so businesses can continue

operating. We believe we are offering the only remote-operated and autonomous industrial snow plow available in the North America. The collaborative Teleo-Storm Equipment approach introduces a way to get the job done more efficiently, safely, and without customers having to purchase new machines; that makes it a realistic solution for companies of all sizes."

NEWSSCAPE

OAKEN EQUIPMENT NAMED ONE OF CANADA’S BEST MANAGED COMPANIES

Oaken Equipment, Canada’s largest Bobcat equipment dealer network, was recognized for its industry-leading performance, its national business practices and its sustained growth by receiving the prestigious 2024 Canada’s Best Managed Companies award.

Celebrating over 30 years, Canada’s Best Managed Companies program awards excellence in private Canadian-owned companies with revenues of $50 million or greater. To attain the designation, companies are evaluated on their leadership in the areas of strategy, culture and commitment, capabilities, innovation, governance and financial performance.

“I’m thrilled for Oaken Equipment to be recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies. It’s a testament to a lot of hard work put in by the entire team across our dealership network,” said Kai Sørensen, president and co-owner of Oaken Equipment. “We’re focused on building a business anchored in our core values that’s

delivering industry-leading customer support and performance. Being recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies is something we’ll proudly display throughout our organization to further reinforce why this is a great place to work and why we’re a great company to embrace as a trusted partner.”

Canada’s Best Managed Companies is one of the country’s leading business awards programs, recognizing innovative and world-class businesses. Every year, hundreds of entrepreneurial companies compete for this designation in a rigorous and independent evaluation process. Applicants are evaluated by an independent panel of judges with representation from program sponsors and special guests.

“There are lots of brands and dealers that will help someone push, pull or move dirt,” Sørensen said. “What we realized is a rock-solid, consistent, values-based organization and culture were key to our growth and success. It’s not about the products, it’s about the people we have supporting them that makes all the difference.”

The 2024 cohort of Best Managed companies share common themes such as having a people-centric culture, targeting effective ESG strategies and accelerating operational digitization.

WHERE POWER MEETS MANEUVERABILITY

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• IceStriker™ 1.2-8.0 cu yd modular poly hopper spreaders for trucks

• Ground speed control, standard

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SNOW SEASON

SURVIVAL GUIDE

CONQUER WINTER'S CHALLENGES WHILE SAFEGUARDING YOUR HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

BY KARINA SINCLAIR

In snow and ice management, it’s always smart to hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. But you can improve your odds for an accident- and injury-free snow season by ensuring your equipment — and your body — is ready. In this comprehensive winter survival guide, tailored specifically for snow and ice management professionals, you’ll find essential strategies to navigate winter with resilience. From assembling an emergency kit to recognizing red flags for heart attacks, frostbite and hypothermia, read on for tips to help you cope with extreme situations.

BE PREPARED ON THE ROAD

Snow pros cover a lot of distance while clearing roads and driving between client sites. Take some time well before the first snowfall to check your vehicle’s emergency kit and add or replace anything that’s missing. Not sure what to pack? Here’s a list of useful items, as suggested by fellow snow plow operators:

FOR YOU FOR YOUR VEHICLE

• Water and snacks

(see snack list on page 29)

• Cell phone and charger

• Extra set of warm clothing (hat, gloves, socks)

• Mylar space blanket

• Candle in a steel tin

• Waterproof matches

• First aid kit

• Hand sanitizer

• Hand warmers

• High visibility vest

• Ice scraper/snow brush

• LED headlight

LIQUIDS

• Compressed air with sealant

• Dielectric grease

• Quarts of fluids (engine oil, washer fluid, etc.)

SAFETY

• Bag of sand or kitty litter for traction

• Fire extinguisher

• Flares or reflective warning triangles

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

• Bottle jack

• Cable come-along (wire rope hand ratchet puller)

• Channel locks

• Crescent wrench

• DVM (digital multimeter) or 12v test light

• Electrical, Teflon and duct tapes

• Extra hydraulic hose

• Extra plow solenoid

• Extra wiper blades

• Eye bolts

• Jumper cables

• Lug wrench

• Pliers

• Screwdrivers

• Shovels

• Socket set

• Spare cotter pins

• Steel D-handle shovel

● • Tarp

• Tow chain

PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR BODY

LEARN THE SIGNS: HEART ATTACK

A Canadian study from 2017 investigated the connection between snowfall and hospital admission or death due to heart attack. After analyzing nearly 200,000 reported heart attacks in Quebec, between November and April from 1981 to 2014, the quantity and duration of snowfall were linked with an increased chance of hospital admission or death due to heart attack.

The study also indicated that shovelling snow is a very strenuous cardio activity, demanding over 75 per cent of the maximum heart rate, especially when handling heavy loads. Cold exposure also increases risk by narrowing blood vessels, raising blood pressure and consequently placing more strain on the heart. Exposure to sudden cold can activate the nervous system and disrupt heart rhythms, while breathing in cold air has been found to reduce blood flow to the heart muscle.

Delaying medical attention can result in fatal heart attacks, so it’s essential that you recognize and promptly address any signs and symptoms of heart attack.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop shovelling. Ask someone for help and call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

• Chest pain or discomfort, with possible feelings of:

o fullness o burning

o pressure o tightness

o squeezing o heaviness

o crushing pain

• Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing

• Pain that may spread:

o from the chest area

o down your arm(s)

o to the neck, jaw or shoulders

• Paleness, sweating or weakness

• Nausea, vomiting and indigestion

• Heightened anxiety or fear

Most symptoms of heart attack are the same for men and women, although women are more likely to feel general discomfort in the chest rather than a sharp pain or tightness. That said, the presence of milder symptoms in women does not diminish the seriousness of a heart attack.

LEARN THE SIGNS: EXPOSURE

Frostbite happens when your skin and underlying tissue is damaged from freezing temperatures. The areas most likely to be affected by frostbite are: fingers, toes, cheeks, ears, chin and tip of your nose. Frostbite will cause affected areas to feel very cold, followed by numbness and tingling. As the condition gets worse, according to Mayoclinic.org, your skin may:

• Become hard or waxy-looking

• Turn colour, in patches of white, red, blue-grey, purple, brown or black, depending on severity and usual skin colour

• Feel stiff or clumsy

• Feel pain

• Blister after rewarming

While waiting for medical attention, protect the injured area from further damage. Avoid walking on frostbitten feet, remove rings or other tight items, take a pain reliever if necessary, and drink a warm, non-alcoholic beverage. Do not apply direct heat.

Hypothermia is a medical emergency that occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it. When your core body temperature falls below 35 C (95 F), your heart, nervous system and other organs begin to struggle. If left untreated, hypothermia can cause heart and respiratory failure and even death.

An early sign of hypothermia is shivering — the body’s automatic defence against cold temperatures. While experiencing hypothermia, the following symptoms may come on gradually:

• Slurred speech or mumbling

• Slow, shallow breathing

• Weak pulse

• Clumsiness or lack of coordination

• Drowsiness or very low energy

• Attitude or behavioural changes

• Confusion or memory loss

• Loss of consciousness

Call 911 if you suspect you or someone else has hypothermia. Stay in a sheltered place, replace wet clothing with warm, dry clothing and blankets, and keep still to conserve energy. If your vehicle is your shelter, run the motor every hour for 10 minutes to warm it up. Open a window slightly and keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow.

NO SUCH THING AS BAD WEATHER, ONLY BAD CLOTHING

No snow and ice management professional worth their road salt would be caught without high visibility gear. When facing the elements, also consider how your clothing choices can help modulate body temperature to avoid both overheating and hypothermia.

MULTIPLE LAYERS

Opt for multiple, thinner layers rather than thick garments. The air between layers of clothing actually provides better insulation than the garment itself. Ensure garments are easy to open or remove to prevent overheating and excessive sweating during strenuous tasks. Keep clothing clean to maintain its insulating properties by preventing dirt from clogging fibres.

INNER LAYERS

Layers closer to your body should provide insulation and be able to "wick" moisture away from the skin. Look for thermal underwear made from polyesters or polypropylene.

OUTER LAYERS

These should be a size larger than the inner layer to avoid compression, which will decrease their insulative properties. Jackets should feature adjustable closures at the waist, neck and wrists to regulate heat retention, and have netted pockets and underarms for additional ventilation.

HEAD AND EYE PROTECTION

Fifty per cent of body heat is lost through the head, so always wear a hat. In extremely cold temperatures, add face protection like a balaclava or hard hat liner. Ensure eye protection is distinct from the nose and mouth area to prevent exhaled moisture from fogging or frosting eye shields or glasses. Choose eye protection that safeguards against ultraviolet light, snow glare, blowing snow/ice crystals and high winds.

FOOTWEAR

Opt for felt-lined, rubber-bottomed leather boots with removable felt insoles for cold-weather work. Leather's porous nature allows for breathability, enabling perspiration to evaporate. Use non-pore-blocking products to waterproof leather boots.

Reserve waterproof boots for situations involving water or slush. These boots can trap perspiration, potentially leading to quicker saturation of insulating materials and socks and increasing risk of frostbite. When trying on boots, wear the same type of socks you'll wear at work to ensure a proper fit. Consider OSHA- and ASTM-approved composite boots as they conduct less cold than steel-toed boots.

SOCKS AND GLOVES

Opt for either one pair of thick, bulky socks or a two-layer approach: an inner sock of silk, nylon, polypropylene or thin wool paired with a thicker outer sock. Always match sock thickness to your boots. Excessively thick socks can result in tight boots, compromising insulation and blood flow, and increasing the risk of injury. On the other side, socks that are too thin may lead to loose-fitting boots and potential blistering.

Liner socks aid in keeping feet dry and warmer by wicking sweat away from the skin. Note that as outer socks become damp, their insulation properties diminish, so keep extra socks handy to change as needed.

Layering advantages work for hands as well, so consider wearing thin polyester gloves under protective gloves. LT

Top 20 tips TO STAY ENERGIZED

BY KARINA SINCLAIR

Snow and ice removal is a job of extremes. Workers must remain alert, strong and strategic during long, early morning or late night shifts. Like any feat of endurance, the battle against major weather events demands proper rest and nourishment.

SLEEP

The biggest snow storms always seem to arrive at night. While most people are drifting off to dreamland, you’re navigating drifting snow. You might also be stifling yawns and blinking past that hyperspace sensation known as snow hypnosis while carefully navigating your plow blade around obstacles.

1. Incorporate wind-down rituals: Develop ways to decompress after a physically demanding shift. Consider activities like stretching or using a foam roller to ease muscle tension and promote relaxation. Get more great exercise advice on page 30.

2. Develop quick sleep strategies: Train your body to fall asleep rapidly when needed by practicing relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation or box breathing.

3. Create a sleep-friendly environment: Make your bedroom as comfortable as possible for sleep. Use blackout curtains, reduce noise with earplugs or a white noise machine and set the temperature to a cool but comfortable level.

4. Power down electronics: Avoid using electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets and computers at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light emitted by these devices can interfere with your ability to fall asleep.

According to Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW), sleep deprivation may lead to increased stress, illness, sensitivity to pain and musculoskeletal injuries. It may also decrease coordination, reaction time and mental alertness — all key requirements for bringing your best to the job.

5. Limit exposure to light: Exposure to natural and artificial light in the hours leading to bedtime can affect your body's production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Dim the lights and consider wearing blue-light blocking glasses if you need to use electronic devices.

6. Direct your mind: Subscribe or download podcasts specifically designed to help you drift off. Some guide you through meditation and others play gentle immersive soundscapes or tell calming stories to distract your wandering (or worrying) mind.

7. Fuel your body wisely: If you’re hungry before bed, choose sleep-friendly snacks and beverages that promote relaxation and sleepiness, such as: turkey slices, tart cherry juice, oatmeal and bananas. Avoid heavy, spicy or greasy foods.

8. Limit caffeine and stimulants: Even though it’s tempting to live off of coffee while working the overnight shift, be mindful of your caffeine intake. Caffeine and other stimulants, like nicotine, can interfere with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. Opt for decaffeinated beverages or water instead.

9. Watch the weather: Monitor for storms through local news, Environment Canada or your favourite forecast app. Although the weather is always changing, it helps to know if a winter weather event is approaching so you can sneak in a nap before it hits.

10. Seek professional help if needed: If you're consistently struggling with sleep despite practicing good sleep hygiene, consider seeking advice from a healthcare professional. They can help identify underlying sleep disorders or provide personalized recommendations to improve your sleep quality.

SNACKS

Whether you’re clearing snow from private pathways, commercial properties or long stretches of highway, your body needs the right kind of fuel to power through.

Jessie Trupp, a registered dietitian with the University of Guelph says choosing a balanced range of foods can help maintain mental

1. Greek yogurt: Start your day with lowfat or plain Greek yogurt, which is high in protein and can help you feel full. You can add a drizzle of honey or fresh fruit for sweetness.

2. Fruit: Fresh fruit like apples, bananas, berries or grapes are convenient, rich in vitamins and minerals and provide natural sugars for a quick energy boost without the crash.

3. Vegetable sticks with hummus: Carrot, celery, bell pepper and cucumber sticks paired with hummus provide a satisfying crunch along with protein and fibre.

4. Hard-boiled eggs: Eggs are a great source of protein, can help keep you feeling full, and are easy to prepare in advance. You can also make egg breakfast sandwiches and store them in the freezer for a quick breakfast on the go.

alertness, support muscle strength, boost immunity and help you feel full longer. Adding foods that are high in protein, complex carbohydrates, good fats and antioxidants can make a positive difference in your health. Trupp suggests winter warriors try these nutrient-dense snacks for sustainable energy while on the job.

5. Whole grain crackers with nut butter: Whole grain crackers paired with almond or peanut butter provide a balance of carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats to keep you fuelled.

6. Edamame: Steamed edamame pods are rich in protein and fibre, making them a satisfying and nutritious snack option.

7. Popcorn: Air-popped popcorn is a low-calorie snack that provides whole grains and fibre. Just be mindful of added salt and butter.

8. Mixed nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds provide healthy fats, protein, magnesium and fibre for lasting energy.

9. Trail mix: Add some texture to nuts and seeds by tossing in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for another boost of energy and fibre.

10. Homemade energy bars: Go one step further and combine trail mix, oats and honey to make your own energy bars. This way, you can control the amount of sugar and fat in them.

Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your shift. If you feel thirsty, have a dry mouth or chapped lips, you may already be experiencing dehydration, which can contribute to fatigue. If you rely on caffeine to kick-start your shift, consider swapping the cream in the “double-double” coffee for milk or reducing the sugar to maintain more consistent energy. LT

HOW TO BUILD A STRONGER WINTER BODY

BY KARINA SINCLAIR

There you are, industriously performing the Great Canadian Exercise Routine, also known as snow shovelling. You lift that loaded shovel to fling the white stuff onto an evergrowing pile and then suddenly, you feel it. Tweak, twinge, pang, spasm, sprain or strain. Whatever you call it, it’s a painful reminder you’re human. And if you’re being paid to shovel pathways on client properties, it might be tempting to push through that pain to get the job done. (Spoiler alert: You’ll pay for it later and the cost isn’t worth it.)

BODY CONDITIONING FOR SHOVELLING

Bayley Quinn, a physiotherapist in Kingston, Ont., has treated plenty of patients with injuries sustained from improper snow shovelling. Having also helped on her partner’s landscaping and snow removal crews, she understands the effort it takes to clear wet, heavy snow. To reduce injury (and re-injury), Quinn says to build core strength and stability by adding some simple stretches and exercises to their routine. To be done before and after each shift.

Quinn suggests adopting three daily habits to prevent low back injury caused from the forward flex of the spine caused from shovelling. “When we're shovelling, we're creating a curve that's not natural to our spine. So spend one or two

minutes lying flat on your belly on the floor (not a soft surface, like your bed) so your back is in a completely neutral position. Breathe deeply to relax,” Quinn said. “Then go up onto your propped forearms like a cobra to again return that natural curve to your spine and really stretch out.”

Next, Quinn suggests adding an exercise to strengthen core abdominal trunk muscles. “A forearm plank is my favourite core activity for shovellers,” Quinn said. “You can also do a straight arm plank or side to side, but work in that plank position to really create a strong core to support you during those long hours of shovelling.”

If planks are new to you, start by holding the position for five to six seconds, relax

and repeat twice more. Gradually build your stamina by increasing the length of time. Considering the back is where the majority of injuries occur, having a strong core is even more important than upper body strength.

“We always end up with back or shoulder injuries because we're trying to lift the snow with our arms rather than using proper biomechanics, such as bending at our knees, holding ourselves strong with our core and then lifting from our knees,” Quinn said.

Tendinosis and tendonitis (‘tennis elbow’) is the second most common issue. “We're using a lot of grip strength holding our shovel and now we've put a very heavy load on the end and we're having to control it. That's often what causes tendonitis.”

A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE MINDSET

Aches and pains can also be an issue for plow drivers and equipment operators who sit for the majority of their shift. Quinn says our bodies aren’t built for night shifts, and maneuvering heavy machinery during unpredictable weather events can lead to tension, injury and stress.

“What's important for everyone going into the snow season is really thinking about how they’re going to create a healthy lifestyle outside of those eight to twelve hours they’re in the truck,” Quinn said, adding it starts with getting enough rest. “It can be really hard to do on shift work, but sleep will make a world of difference to your mental health, your alertness and your physical health.”

A nutritious diet, hydration and regular exercise are critical factors for coping with stress and unusual scheduling. “That's really going to support how alert we are in the truck,” Quinn said. “So approaching the winter season with that mindset of ‘yes, my schedule is going to change but I need to continue to lead a healthy lifestyle even though I'm a little bit flip-flopped for these few months.’”

DRIVER POSTURE AND POSITION

To help reduce that knot between your shoulder blades and improve circulation, Quinn has some simple ideas that work for anyone who sits for long periods of time. “The best posture is just the next posture, so keep moving your body into different positions,” Quinn recommends. This could mean adjusting the angle and tilt of your seat after clearing a couple of properties, or getting out to walk around for a few minutes between jobs.

While seated, Quinn suggests parked drivers “try doing 20-30 ankle pumps by pointing your toes and pulling them back up. It really works those calf muscles that help circulate blood from lower extremities back up to our trunk.”

Follow the ankle pumps up with some gentle shoulder and neck exercises, like shoulder shrugs, side-to-side stretches and shoulder circles.

RECOVERY

Ideally, you’ll manage to avoid getting hurt, but if you do, don’t ignore it. “The best thing we can do right away is to give our body 24 to 72 hours rest,” Quinn said. That could mean trading off with a partner to do a different task.

“Our bodies aren't built to do the same thing over and over again,” Quinn said, adding she’d like crew supervisors and lead hands to consider how they're scheduling people. “I know not everyone can drive a plow and there are parameters that we have to work around. But can we work out a shift alternate where you plow for half the night and you shovel for half the night?” By rotating tasks, workers can avoid repetitive work that causes injuries.

In addition to rest, Quinn recommends applying an ice pack to injured areas to help reduce inflammation. Do this once in the morning and once at night for 10 to 12 minutes. Finally, consult your doctor or pharmacist about using an over-the-counter antiinflammatory for pain relief.

If your injury has not gotten better after a few days of rest, seek an assessment from a physiotherapist. LT

CLEARING THE WAY

THREE WOMEN ON CHARTING THEIR OWN PATH IN THE SNOW AND ICE MANAGEMENT INDUSTRY

BY KARINA SINCLAIR

While women are still underrepresented in the snow and ice sector, more and more are finding this non-traditional role to be fulfilling, flexible and even fun.

Just ask Michelle White, Nichole Ashton and Lexi Thompson. They'll tell you they love working in snow and ice removal. Whether they’re pushing a shovel or driving a plow, these women clean up like snowbody’s business.

In the winter of 2004, Michelle White joined the snow maintenance crew at Boot’s Landscaping in Richmond Hill, Ont. She cleared properties with a shovel and snow blower for five seasons before advancing to operating a tractor with a plow and drop salter for the past 15 years. Company owner Gerald Boot says White is one of his company’s best operators.

Nichole Ashton started her snow journey with a small landscape company out of Ayr, Ont., and worked her way up through various leadership roles, such as operations manager and training coordinator. Ashton is now the senior account manager at North Country Snow and Ice Management in Glen Falls, N.Y. She has also been on the board of directors for Smart About Salt for over a decade. Ashton doesn’t think it’s extraordinary for women to be in the industry at all, and has even brought her daughter along on some runs.

Like Ashton’s daughter, Lexi Thompson was also introduced to a career in snow management by her mother. With five seasons under her belt, Thompson’s career at Creative Roots Landscaping in Kelowna, B.C. is just getting started, but she

looks forward to transitioning from hand shovelling to operating a plow. Her favourite part of snow removal is using the backpack blower to clear fine, lightweight snow because it feels like playing in the snow as a kid, while making the pathway safe to use.

What drew you to work in the snow and ice management sector?

White: I always knew I wanted to get into the [landscaping] field because I loved gardening and being outdoors in general. So I took a college course, Environmental Landscape Management at Seneca's King City campus. I knew snow removal went hand in hand with landscaping, so when I graduated I stumbled upon an article in the Thornhill Liberal for Boot's Landscaping looking for shovelers and figured ‘let's give it a go.’ The rest is history.

Ashton: I was brought into the industry by a friend who owned a small town landscape company. It was just the two of us for a while, but we grew to about 12 team members. I eventually left to enhance my career at a larger local franchise, which opened my eyes to the corporate side of the industry. Eventually, we parted ways and the CEO of North Country Snow & Ice Management saw something in my skills and asked me to join his team. I have been here for almost eight years now and hopefully, forever. We have built a team of mostly women to manage the accounts and it's been very successful. I am very proud of my team, and I am thankful to North Country for the support and guidance to grow.

When I started, it wasn't common at all to see or hear of a woman doing snow removal, so there was a feeling that you had to prove yourself to the boys.

MICHELLE WHITE

“ “

Thompson: I actually was doing snow removal before I started landscaping. I started snow removal when I was about 16. My mom had a snow route with Gable Landscaping and the boss was super nice, so I would tag along with my mom when I wasn't at school. And then when I started with Creative Roots Landscaping, it was kind of like, ‘Hey, I see you do snow removal. We're thinking of getting a crew going this year.’ And I was like, ‘Absolutely, I would totally be into that.’ Another reason I got into it was just to break up the winter and to make some money. In landscaping, we have three months off in the winter time, so it's really important for me to be able to get out and get some physical exercise. I miss working.

What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced working in this sector?

White: When I started, it wasn't common at all to see or hear of a woman doing snow removal, so there was a feeling that you had to prove yourself to the boys. Nowadays, it's quite common and, to be honest, I've seen way more men struggle with the physical labour than women. Either you have the endurance or you don't — the women do.

Ashton: Honestly, the only challenge I’ve found — which is no different than in any other career — is making sure I had proper daycare for the overnights and travel. I am a single mother and I have my child full time. Otherwise, as for most of the "stereotypes," I find that you get what you give. If you are kind and respectful, people will be kind and respectful back. I realized early on that if someone is disrespectful

to me, they are likely disrespectful to everyone. I surrounded myself with mentors to make myself stronger and I've worked hard to help grow and strengthen all of my team members and vendors. If they are successful, then we are successful.

Thompson: There was a week this winter where I shovelled for six days straight and two of the days were 10-hour days. It can be very physical, and at the end of the week there was nowhere to pile the snow on our residential properties. You would have to throw it in the air just to get it out of the way. I'm not going to lie, the biggest challenge is when we have some very heavy and very cold days. It also sucks when you are covered in snow and then you get in a nice warm truck with the heat on, and suddenly you're wet. Then you get out at another property and then you freeze. There definitely are some downsides to the job, but you just dress warm and bring an extra pair of socks.

Do you think men and women have different approaches to snow clearing?

White: I don't think there's a difference. Everyone is given the same basic training pre-season and it's more of an individual approach. Everyone has a different pace; some will put thought into the process and come up with ways to make the job easier on themselves and more productive overall.

Ashton: Yes, I think that women naturally pay more attention to detail, and from my experience, women have a softer approach with the equipment. Much less likely to ram the machines into snow piles or buildings. [I find] we ask more questions and listen better to instruction.

Thompson: Being a woman, you have to be a little bit more strategic with how you do things. Sometimes I think guys just go in there with brute force and just try to get the job done, whereas I have to try and

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create my route so I'm not shovelling a huge long strip of a driveway. Maybe instead of doing vertical passes, I'll do horizontal. Or one thing that worked really well for me was, on the heavy days, I would shovel everything to the side of the driveway and then get the snow blower and blow it all into the beds. It was kind of funny because my [male] partner started picking up on that too. Work smarter, not harder, right? It's about pacing yourself and being strategic, for sure.

How could the industry make these jobs more attractive to women?

White: I think the industry as a whole has become very aware of the strengths women have to offer. Nowadays, women know they can choose any job they please, so just seeing women out there in the field is more than enough to encourage them to feel comfortable about going for it.

Ashton: I think there is a history of negative stereotypes of women in male-dominated industries as a whole. Honestly, I think most women excel in the snow industry if they have a real passion for it. I have been working in this industry for my entire adult career, and I have found mentors and role models almost anywhere I go. This industry is full of the hardest working, most humble human beings that I have ever met. You don't just network in the industry, you learn, you grow and you build a family. I am truly honoured and grateful for all the relationships that I have built working in the winter maintenance industry. My advice to women: Ask, listen, learn. This industry, these people will make you a better human being.

Thompson: To attract more women, I think companies just need to advertise. And of course, [ensure] equal wages between men and women. It's important to even that out. And, you know, I'm all about women and women's strength but also being understanding that we are smaller than some of the men and we can't lift as much or go for as long. So having an opportunity for us to work at smaller properties or have a shorter run, and just finding that balance. LT

BY KARINA SINCLAIR

When it comes to tackling winter's fury, a reliable snow shovel is your trusty companion for clearing sidewalks, driveways or even digging a vehicle out of a snow bank. But not all shovels are created equal. The Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW) offers this breakdown of key factors to consider when selecting the perfect tool to meet your needs:

Blade size and shape

For cutting through deep snow drifts or clearing windrows, opt for a flat shovel. Rounded scoops are better for pushing snow or efficiently removing it from sidewalks.

Blade material

Metal blade: Sturdy and durable, capable of handling heavy loads and chipping through ice. However, they are heavier and can contribute to back strain.

Plastic blade: Lightweight, flexible, and easy to maneuver. They're less durable than metal blades and not suitable for chipping ice, but snow doesn't stick as easily.

Combination: Consider a plastic blade with a metal wear strip for added strength and lightness.

Handle material

Wooden handle: Lightweight, durable, and easily replaceable. Requires occasional maintenance with linseed oil.

Fiberglass handle: Extremely durable, resistant to weather changes and rust, but heavier.

Plastic handle: Lightweight and easy to handle, but prone to brittleness over time, especially with constant exposure to sunlight and moisture.

Metal handle: Inexpensive and lightweight, but vulnerable to bending and rust.

Handle length

Choose a shovel with a length that reaches mid-chest height to minimize back strain caused by excessive bending.

Shovelling rate and weight

Once you’ve got the ideal shovel in hand you’re ready to tackle a fresh snowfall, but take care to pace yourself. Follow the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) recommendation of 15 scoops per minute, with a maximum weight per shovel of five to seven kg. (10-15 lbs.) for high-rate shovelling and 11 kg. (approx. 24 lbs.) for lower rates.

Snow density and throwing guidelines: Be mindful of the weight of snow and practice safe throwing heights and distances to avoid strain and injury. Optimal throwing height should not exceed 1.3 metres, with a distance no further than one metre.

Take breaks every 15 minutes to prevent fatigue. See the chart above for a sense of how much a shovel full of snow can weigh depending on density.

According to the CCOHS, if you clear a single driveway covered in one foot of wet snow, you would move nearly four tons of snow.

Selecting the right snow shovel can make a significant difference in your snow-clearing efficiency and safety. Always prioritize your health and well-being while shovelling. LT

HLA’s Landscape Stone Fork with Power Rake is the ideal tool for cleaning up after construction before seeding or landscaping. The power rake is equipped with 3 sets of tines which scoop trash and rocks into the basket. A sloped floor retains materials keeping them from spilling until the bucket is dumped. Hydraulic cylinders raise the power rake for easy dumping of collected materials.

Variable Pitch

To power rake has three positions for adjustment. This allows you to vary the pitch of the tines to suit your application.

LANDSCAPE POWER RAKE.

GET INTO GEAR

BY MIKE FITZGERALD

Your skid-steer loaders are versatile, productive tools that can tackle tough jobs — including winter and snow tasks. With adequate preparation, your skid-steer loader and attachment lineup can help keep your operation productive throughout the winter.

Before tackling snow-covered parking lots and walkways, consider these tips to winterize your skid-steer loader.

1. Consult your operation and maintenance manual

While the best practices listed below can guide compact equipment owners regardless of brand, it’s always important to follow the operation and maintenance manual for your specific equipment. These manuals often include recommendations on maintenance intervals, related parts, instructions and diagrams that take the guesswork out of upkeep.

2. Check fluids, oils and fuels

Check fluids and refer to the operation and maintenance manual for instructions on filling your machine with the correct fluid to meet expected weather conditions. When the temperature drops, it’s important to have an engine oil viscosity that matches the outside operating temperatures and a low-temperature grease for proper lubrication on pivot points.

Engine coolant — or antifreeze — is also an important fluid that should be tested according to manufacturer specifications before the weather turns cold.

Change the hydraulic oil filter, which may have collected water and debris over the warmer months, to help reduce future maintenance problems.

In cold weather conditions, diesel fuel can gel, so operators will want to consider an alternative diesel fuel (No.1 grade or blended depending on temperature) or anti-gel additives.

3. Keep tires properly inflated

One of the first physical signs of cold weather may be sagging tires on your skid-steer loader. Low tire pressure can translate into lower lift and push capabilities. Check the operation and maintenance manual for the proper psi and inflate tires accordingly.

4. Test the battery

Downtime is unavoidable if you have a bad battery. Take time for a load test on your batteries before the first snowfall. Check battery cables and connections for any wear or corrosion — these defects could result in loss of available cranking power. Keep the battery at full charge with a battery extender charger.

5. Inspect attachments

Attachments such as snow blades, snowblowers, angle brooms and spreaders are some of the most popular and hardest-working tools in the winter months and deserve the same attention as the machine itself. Visual checks of attachment components such as hoses, cylinders, guards, cutting blades and edges can help determine if wear is developing or damage has occurred. Everything that engages with the ground should be looked at before operating. Some attachments also require fluid-level checks and lubrication.

6. Stay warm and comfortable

Popular features for skid-steer loaders in colder temperatures include heating and defrosting systems. To keep your cab comfortable and your time productive, inspect each system and perform routine maintenance as specified in the operation and maintenance manual. LT

Mike Fitzgerald is a Marketing Manager at Bobcat Company. He believes that with a little prep work each fall, you can keep your skidsteer loader running strong all winter long.

Strassa 60mm

Strassa modernizes old-world charm as a single-sized gem with a gently textured surface

As part of the Eterna Collection of products, Strassa is manufactured using our EliteFinish™ face-mix process for a finer-textured and more durable finish than standard pavers and beautifully vibrant, stain-resistant colours, thanks to Oaks’ ColorBold ™ technology. And thanks to its pronounced spacer bars, Strassa can also function as a permeable or drainage paver

Giving seasonal employees reasons to return

Strategies for year-round engagement and growth

BY RYAN MARKEWICH

KEEPING QUALITY EMPLOYEES engaged, loyal and wanting to stay with your company can be challenging and has been the source of much discussion in our company for decades. In my last column, I introduced how adopting Open Book Management (OBM) and The Great Game of Business (GGOB) has propelled the success of Creative Roots Landscaping (CRL). This time, I’ll dive into how this inclusive and transparent methodology helped create an enticing company culture worth coming back to season after season. I’ve made some interesting observations over the past 30 years while trying to “crack the code” on the seasonal aspect of landscaping as it relates to keeping employees year after year, and asked my staff for their insights, too. Here are just a few tactics that have worked very well for our staff.

High Involvement Planning (HIP)

Much like a team sport where every player's participation matters, the key to HIP is the "involvement" part. It empowers employees to make a difference by educating and involving them intentionally in business planning. When done right, your employees will want to learn and care about the business and its outcomes. The system of meetings to present data, assess competition, review customer insights, discuss strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT), and evaluate progress toward benchmarks to develop growth and contingency plans that get company-side buy-in are invaluable. This specialized process aims to remove the planning process from the "select few" at the top and put it in the hands

Crews enjoy building landscapes while surrounded by the natural beauty of the local environment.

of the people who actually execute the strategies. In the absence of involving the "players," strategic business planning often has minimal results. Would you rather have a fan who knows the score or a player who knows the game and can change it?

Seven years ago, Zack Neufeld started with CRL straight out of high school and became one of the five per cent employee owners in 2021. “I’ve been able to participate in and engage in some life-changing experiences with high-level business people and leaders,” Neufeld said. “Through thick and thin, I always believed in the company, the people and the vision that was there. I believed that the Path to Partnership was real and it was for me.”

Roman Romenskyi, a recent immigrant from Ukraine, is in his first year at CRL, but is already forming bonds with his team thanks to our inclusive nature. “I really like the team and, specifically, the relationships within the team,” Romenskyi said. “Each employee is always open to help and share their experience; the cheerful atmosphere more than compensates for the hard work. The organization of work in the company, at the highest level, is arranged simply, is intuitive and always easily accessible.”

Share on the outcome

Our Profit Gain Sharing program ensures all employees benefit from the company's success without compromising its financial health. Our team appreciates this approach because they are actively involved in both financial and cultural planning, giving them clear insights into our performance metrics. This transparency fosters a deeper understanding of market realities compared to employees at other companies. It reinforces the idea that our company is like the goose that lays the golden egg; by nurturing and supporting it, we create more opportunities for everyone to prosper.

Rik VanEspen is in our construction division and is likely to be our next and fifth employee partner. “I love the feeling of accomplishment finishing a job, knowing that I did my very best to organize a team and all the logistics

surrounding a job and gave the client a product that they can be proud of — a place where they can build memories to last a lifetime,” VanEspen said when asked why he stays with CRL. “The opportunity for growth professionally and personally, too. I want to do more than just work in construction. I want to own a piece of this company and continue building on the foundation laid before me. I grow every single season from every challenge I face.”

Intentional focus on personal and professional growth

Employees love to win but often lack awareness of what needs to be done in order to win at business and their work. One of the biggest ways to help employees win is by proving you care, which just happens to be one of our core values. Considering the skilled labour shortage, it’s more important than ever for businesses to take the position of

BUILT TO DOMINATE

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being the new educators. For us, this includes a highly participative onboarding and site-specific training of skills and safety, which also covers financial literacy, a five-year forward looking organizational chart and even a path to potential partnership. This progression helps each employee get what they need to succeed. The desire to do so is then up to them.

Jacob Neufeld, a second-year employee, said the fact that he learns something new every day is a huge motivator. “The owners/leads care about the crew/team,” Neufeld added. “And they try to accommodate everyone’s needs and focus on things we’d like to learn, and in return, we get some pretty awesome rewards.”

Enriched earning potential

Our employees can work nine (some even 10) months and earn the equivalent of 10-12. How is that possible? The math is not that hard… if you consider a typical work week to be 40 hours and an employee is willing to work 45 on average by working the odd Saturday and/or a few overtime hours per week, it adds up to 1,800 hours in nine months instead of 1,600 hours if they had worked 40 hours. This additional 200 hours is equal to five weeks of work! In addition, the profit gain share potential is up to 15 per cent of gross earnings. In our 2024 profit gainshare program, that potential is 226 hours or 5.65 weeks of pay. Our 2023 payout was 10.75 per cent. When you educate your team in the company financials, the realities of the marketplace and your industry, and allow them to define what winning looks like, all you need to do is stand back and get the hell out of their way.

Seasonal freedom

Many of our returning employees love the opportunity to work hard during the landscaping season in order to play hard over the winter. “The seasonal aspect of the job is

great for me,” Zack Neufeld said. “It allows me to travel in the winter or snowboard and enjoy the mountains and downtime resting from all the hard work throughout the season.” First-year Rhian Jeffrys appreciates the flexibility: “I think that offering the extra hours doing snow removal and not being the normal nine to five shift is great. It gives options to those who just want to take a break or be able to work a few hours here and there.”

Perhaps it is our mission/purpose statement, our North Star if you will, that summarizes and guides us to build a company where people want to stay: “We are building a people business with those who share our drive for excellence and appreciate the many rewards that accompany working in a transparent and inclusive way: exciting challenges, camaraderie and friendships, a sense of purpose, feelings of accomplishment, profits, and a path to partnership.”

Wherever the credit lies, in some magical way it all works together to form our ever-evolving, perfectly imperfect, organizational ecosystem. The processes, the systems, the huddles, the mindset of continuous improvement, the regular missteps, the small wins and the dedication to our mission: this combination helps enrich our desirable culture that retains high-achieving crew members. I think it will work for you, too. LT

RYAN MARKEWICH

has been fascinated by business since starting Creative Roots Landscaping in 1994. After selling a majority of his successful company to key employees, he launched Rmark, a coaching service to help other business owners achieve better results, have more time for themselves and find enjoyment along the way.

Plants at work

Using native halophytes to remediate salt-impacted soils

BY DR. LYNDSAY CARTWRIGHT, LAUREN NAWROTH, DR. BARB ZEEB

HAVE YOU EVER wondered what happens to the salt we apply to roads, parking lots and sidewalks once winter is over?

Salt, often in the form of sodium chloride (NaCl), is used in the winter to improve safety for winter travel. While some of the salt stays on surfaces to melt snow and ice, it also sprays (if liquid form) or bounces (if rock form) to nearby areas, including ditches, lawns or gardens. If it rains or the snow melts, some of the salt moves rapidly into streams and lakes, while the rest ends up being stored in soils, stormwater management ponds and groundwater. This stored salt is called legacy salt because it will still make its way to freshwater streams and lakes for years to come.

A negative legacy

More salt in freshwater is not good. We need freshwater to drink and irrigate our crops and many aquatic species rely on freshwater as their home. Freshwater is getting saltier across Canada. This makes it vitally important to put less salt into the environment and to find ways to remove legacy salt.

Phytoremediation involves using plants to clean up contaminated environments and has been used effectively to remediate sites contaminated with industrial chemicals, petroleum hydrocarbons, metals and salt. Halophytes are plants that can tolerate and, in some cases, remove salt from soils. They make up a very small percentage of all plants, accounting for only about two per cent of terrestrial species. Halophytes tolerate salty soils in three main ways.

First, some plants stop salt from entering roots (i.e., excluder halophytes). Second, some plants take up salt from soil and store it in shoots and leaves (i.e., accumulator halophytes). Finally, some plants take up salt from the soil and excrete it through salt glands on their leaf surfaces (i.e., excretor halophytes). Both accumulator and excretor halophytes provide an innovative solution for removing legacy salt from soil.

Promising new research

In the spring of 2022, we set up experimental plots in Mississauga, Ont., to compare the ability of four native

perennial halophytic grasses to remediate soils containing salt from nearby roads. Two accumulator species, switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) and sand dropseed (Sporobolus cryptandrus), and two excretor species, prairie cordgrass (Sporobolus michauxianus) and sideoats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula) were planted.

Plant samples were collected in the fall of 2022 and 2023 and results indicate that all four plant species can take up high levels of chloride. Timelines for remediation were calculated based on plant biomass production, the amount of chloride taken up by each plant and the soil salt concentration. Switchgrass, prairie cordgrass and sideoats grama are projected to remediate this location in less than three years.

But what happens to the salt after it moves from the soil to the plants?

Phytoremediation using halophytes is a preferable and less invasive method of soil remediation compared to conventional methods (such as excavation or chemical amendments) with many co-benefits (such as aesthetics, thermal mitigation and creation of wildlife habitat). Using accumulator halophytes requires harvesting the above ground parts of the plants after each season of growth and repurposing the plant biomass. Repurposing could include composting to reduce the volume of biomass, using it as feed and fodder for livestock, pyrolyzing it to produce biochar or even using it to produce biofuels.

Using excretor halophytes may be a less intensive intervention as the need to harvest plants is eliminated. Once the salt is excreted to the leaf surfaces of excretor halophytes, the wind can disperse the salt to other areas diluting the amount of salt in problem areas, like roadsides. Dilution is not the solution to pollution for most contaminants; however, sodium and chloride in low amounts are important nutrients for plants and are often not readily available in the environment.

The results of this study are relatively new, and we look forward to testing implementation of this biotechnology with landowners and landscapers in the coming months. This testing will contribute to developing guidelines or checklists to help identify what to plant, where to plant it, maintenance requirements and potential limitations and challenges.

Nature can often provide us with the best solutions to environmental problems. Let’s do our part by reducing the amount of salt we add to the environment and removing what we can from salt-contaminated soils.

Several nurseries supply native halophytes including NVK Nurseries, Sassafras Farms, Grow Wild! Native Plants

Nursery and Native Plant Nurseries. If you are interested in participating as a landowner or landscaper to help develop guidelines for implementation, would like to discuss using halophytes on your lands, or have any questions, please contact Lyndsay Cartwright lyndsay.cartwright@trca.ca. LT

Notes from Floralies

How Canada has stepped onto the world horticulture stage

BY PAUL BRYDGES

HAVING JUST RETURNED from Floralies Internationales in Nantes, France, I’m excited to share a little about the opportunities it presented for collaboration with other nations, as well as the honour of representing Canada on the world stage of horticulture.

The theme of this edition of Floralies was “Flower Games” in recognition of France hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Working with this theme, the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) garden was laid out in the same format as a trivial pursuit board, which was invented in Canada. Floralies manager Marion Leclerc and her team deserve a huge thanks. She gave our team incredible latitude in how we approached our design layout as well as excellent feedback for technical requirements and direction to the garden build team. Special thanks also to the two firms that completed the build based on our design layout: Paysagiste De La Baie and Les Jardins De Capri. They were able to skillfully interpret the design and bring the overall intent to light with great vibrancy and crispness.

All of this hard work was accomplished

despite the weather. Apparently, the Nantes region had been experiencing one of the wettest Mays on record. From arrival and opening day and the days beyond, the skies continued to pour sheets of water on the entire show site. This resulted in the site crews having to find creative solutions to create paths through the saturated clay soil with turf mats, straw and mulch. All of these materials were brought in by the dump truck and transport load to try and accommodate the anticipated crowd of 200,000 spectators.

This shape of our garden created the opportunity to represent many regions of Canada within the different segments of the game board while also offering the opportunity to include some horticultural history and trivia about Canada.

The fact that the Canadian garden was split partially between outside space and under a large event tent was a blessing in disguise. With the benches located in the central hub of the garden, a dry and comfortable space was created for people to gather during the frequent downpours and discuss the garden and Canada’s natural heritage on display.

Special CNLA ambassador and past president Anthony O’Neill greeted visitors to the garden with his typical smile and jovial personality, asking guests if they knew the capital of Canada. Correct answers were rewarded with Canadian flag lapel pins.

Through connections with the Floralies team and International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) Anthony was able to introduce the design team to many of our international partners in horticulture. Since Floralies is an AIPHsanctioned event it allowed our association another opportunity to show our AIPH partners our dedication to advancing the language of horticulture across the globe.

Since the garden was showcasing the natural beauty of Canadian landscapes, it was an ideal backdrop for school groups to learn about pollinators and their connection to plants. The science and horticulture teachers commented on how the garden made it easy to visually explain to students the connection between nature, people and pollinators, as well as the value of plants.

Opportunities to collaborate with international groups is a key reason for CNLA to continue to work with groups such as AIPH and so many others. The National Design committee is currently speaking with the American Professional Landscape Designers (APLD) to come to an agreement on sharing knowledge and networking opportunities between the two associations.

Designers are the first point of contact with clients and the public, and are critical influencers in spreading the knowledge and excitement that plants and horticulture bring to society and the critical environmental factors that horticulture brings to a healthy planet. Showcasing plants and design on the world stage is an invaluable tool in advancing the profession of horticulture. LT

PAUL BRYDGES

BLA, CLD, APALA, ASLA, CSLA, OALA, FLP

is a senior landscape architect at Brydges Landscape Architecture based in Guelph, Ont., and chair of the CNLA National Landscape Designer SubCommittee.

Quebec garden centres prepare to inspire visitors in August

BY STUART SERVICE

The annual International Garden Centre Association (IGCA) congress is coming to Québec, Canada, August 25-31 in what is shaping up to be an inspiring journey to cap off the summer.

Each year, the IGCA’s annual congress often sees more than 200 delegates from 20 countries, visiting numerous garden retailers with the goal of exchanging ideas, and helping independent garden centres become more competitive in a changing retail environment.

This August, the IGCA will visit 11 stores to witness breathtaking scale, innovative merchandising, spectacular plant quality and multi-generational history. Amidst the backdrop of stunning landscapes and floral displays, these garden centres are not merely retail spaces but destinations for family outings and immersive experiences. From the expansive thematic gardens of Jardins Michel Corbeil to the educational butterfly exhibit at Jardin Hamel, many centres offer a unique blend of retail and recreational opportunities. Moreover, with landmarks like Jardin Dion marking significant milestones in Quebec’s horticultural history, the IGCA

congress promises not only to showcase excellence in garden retail but also to celebrate the rich heritage and pioneering spirit of Quebec’s horticultural industry. As delegates explore these establishments, they will gain insight into innovative merchandising and plant quality and witness firsthand the deep-rooted connection between Quebecers and their beloved garden centres.

JUST A FEW TOUR GEMS

Jardin Hamel near Québec City is a massive, 5,000-squaremetre store that will see about 130,000 customers this year.

“In terms of the quantity of variety of plants we have, I unfortunately can’t tell you because there are so many,” said François Parent of Jardin Hamel. “There are simply thousands of varieties which makes it difficult to count.”

A big draw to Hamel is “Papillons en Fête,” a six-week event from February to April when over 35 butterfly species and about 15,000 butterflies flutter around 1,000 square metres of the store.

“This is an event that happens during a slower season, when there’s spring break and parents don’t know what to do with their kids,” Parent said. “We offer a nice activity that is very affordable.”

The late-August timing is perfect for a visit to Jardins Michel Corbeil where, within the huge plant nursery and vibrant garden centre, there are expansive thematic gardens to explore. Dinner will be served within the display gardens, and IGCA guests will be treated to a Monarch Butterfly sanctuary experience, where guests will get to see young butterflies take their first flight.

Turning a garden centre into a familyfriendly, sight-seeing activity is a theme at many of the garden centres, including Pépinière Villeneuve, which offers customers a more than five-kilometre trail system, a petting zoo, and is a draw for birdwatching enthusiasts.

“The customers have an incredible loyalty to their garden centre,” said Martin Breault from Pépinière Villeneuve, who added the experiences around the Villeneuve are what create long-lasting customer relationships.

“We want people to come in at Villeneuve and have a moment in nature looking through beautiful environments,” he continued. “People don’t necessarily remember a particular experience about the plants, they remember it was a place they used to have a hike, to have a picnic.”

CNLANEWS

The IGCA visits Jardin2m, a giant garden centre on 500,000-square-feet of land that’s celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Jardin2m makes the most of its garden centre’s landmass by appealing to both retail customers and landscape professionals.

“Usually what we see is a garden centre for retail and then a yard for landscapers,” said Jardin2m owner Mariève Dyotte. “At our place everything is together.”

To help customers visualize the trees and shrubs beyond the containers and wire baskets in which they’re sold, Jardin2m has a vast, walkable demonstration garden that provides living examples of how a selection of their inventory of more than 85,000 plants will grow at different times of maturity.

Staffing reaches about 50 people during the peak of the season, all of whom have been working at Jardin2m for more than two years, and who are eager to show off their store when the IGCA visits.

Also celebrating a milestone year is Jardin Dion which is in its 70th year of business. Jardin Dion was started by two brothers, Guy and Wilfred Dion, who started off as landscape contractors who would buy plants for their projects. At the end of the project, the brothers would have surplus plant material, which passersby would inquire about purchasing.

“In 1954, there was only one nursery for all of the province,” said Mathieu Dion, president

of Jardin Dion. His grandfather Wilfred began selling the surplus plant material outside of his home. “He saw that there was a demand for this. In 1954-1960, he was really a pioneer of horticulture here in Québec.”

Jardin Dion employs 225 people at its peak season, and has grown over the years to three store locations, as well as a large landscaping division that generates almost half of Dion Group’s revenue.

“We're very, very happy to welcome you to our garden centre,” Poirier said of the IGCA’s late-August visit to Jardin Dion’s Sainte-Thérèse establishment. “We really have wonderful employees who will be smiling with you, beautiful plants, and a beautiful, warm garden centre with lots of love.”

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDED IN TOUR

Along with seeing these and many other examples of the incredible standard in garden retail being set in the province, the IGCA will feature numerous sights to see. The congress includes visits to Montmorency Falls, guided tours through Québec City and Old Montréal, dinner and entertainment at a Sugar Shack, a dinner cruise to admire the magnificent panorama of Montréal and much, much more.

Visit IGCA24.ca for registration details to experience this summer’s invitation to inspiration.

DELIVERING SUPERIOR SOD WITH QUALITY SERVICE

IN MEMORIAM

Sandy (Alexander) Roberton

Long-time CNLA volunteer Sandy Roberton passed away after a long battle with cancer at age 83. Roberton received the CNLA President’s Award for volunteerism in 2008, recognizing his contribution, commitment and dedication to the industry.

Born and raised in the U.K., Roberton’s early years were spent in the agricultural sector. Realizing agriculture was not for him, he joined the Highland regiment in the British army in 1957. After being demobilized in 1966, he returned to the agricultural sector. In 1980, he moved to Saudi Arabia where he found employment in the landscape sector and he knew he had found his true calling. He moved to Nova

Scotia in 1984 and started Earthcraft Landscaping. Roberton soon recognized the lack of training opportunities for the trade was a serious issue for both the industry and the consumer.

His search for solutions became his passion. Over the years, Roberton led or participated on numerous committees and initiatives, including curriculum development work for the N.S. Department of Agriculture and Landscape Nova Scotia. He became chair and chief champion of the CNLA’s Certification Committee in 1995. Roberton was instrumental in organizing the first two certification tests for landscapers, first in British Coloumbia, then in Nova Scotia.

CNLANEWS

LANDSCAPE NEW BRUNSWICK BIDS FAREWELL

Landscape New Brunswick (LNB) announced the retirement of Jim and Theresa Landry. After decades of dedicated service and significant contributions to the landscape industry in New Brunswick, the Landrys are stepping down to enjoy their wellearned retirement.

Jim, executive director, and Theresa, bookkeeper, have been instrumental in advancing the mission of LNB and fostering a strong community spirit within the industry. Their commitment to excellence and community service has not only enhanced the organization’s reputation but has also greatly benefited New

Brunswick, PEI, and the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA).

As we bid farewell to Jim and Theresa, LNB, along with the CNLA and regional partners, affirms our commitment to ensuring a seamless transition. The LNB is dedicated to maintaining the high standards set by the Landrys and will continue to serve members with the same dedication and excellence.

LNB and CNLA extend our deepest gratitude to Jim and Theresa for their years of service, leadership and dedication. They leave behind a lasting legacy that will inspire generations to come.

CFA SUMMARY OF 2024 FEDERAL BUDGET

The Canadian Federation of Agriculture created a summary of the 2024 Federal budget unveiled last April, referencing sections that pertain to agriculture. These highlights have been scaled down to what applies to our industry, and references pages in the budget if readers wish to dig further. To learn more about the budget, see a full breakdown of applicable sections on our website: LandscapeTrades.com/ cfa-summary-of-2024-federal-budget

CNLANEWS

ONGOING

CHANGES IMPACT

TEMPORARY FOREIGN WORKERS

This has been a very tumultuous spring regarding the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). There have been several changes since the end of March, some of which have impacted our members.

Just before midnight on Feb. 29, 2024, the Government of Canada adjusted its travel requirements for Mexican citizens, who will now need a visitor visa to travel to Canada unless they meet the following requirements:

• They have held a Canadian visitor visa (temporary resident visa) in the past 10 years or currently hold a valid United States nonimmigrant visa; and

• They are using a valid Mexican passport to fly to Canada or to transit through a Canadian airport to another destination.

Applicants must apply for their work permit outside of Canada. They may not apply for a work permit at a Canadian port of entry. If the work permit application is approved, a visa will automatically be issued. There is no need for a separate visa application. The passport must be sent to a VISA Application Centre to affix the visa counterfoil (sticker) into the passport before any travel to Canada.

These new travel requirements caused delays for members waiting on workers and continues to affect the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process.

On March 21, the Government of Canada released information on changes to the TFWP that took effect on May 1:

• New Labour Market Impact Assessments will be valid for six months (a decrease from 12 months) to ensure accurate labour market needs.

• All employers identified in the 2022 Workforce Solutions Road Map (seven selected industries; ornamental horticulture was not included) will have a reduction from 30 per cent to 20 per cent of their total workforce that can come in through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, under the low wage stream, with an exception for the construction and health care sectors.

• Employers will need to explore every option before applying for an LMIA — including recruiting asylum seekers with valid work permits here in Canada.

These changes came as a surprise as we recently attended a meeting to discuss industry labour needs and concerns with members of the Minister's staff before this release. Nancy Healey, Commissioner for Employers, has already sent follow-up emails to express industry concerns to Brian Hickey, Director General of the TFW program. Nancy has also met with Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages of Canada, and raised our concerns with this release.

There has been a meeting by the government alluding to the development of a new Foreign Worker Program. While this is still at the very high-level end of planning, there is a desire to take the good aspects of the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) and merge those with existing TFW Programs to create a new program. The government has promised to engage industries that use the program in consultations.

There is still a lot to be worked out and nothing has been finalized yet, which unfortunately leaves very little to report on. There are concerns and unknowns at this time, but CNLA will continue to follow this closely.

CNLANEWS

CNLA'S 'PLANTS LOVE YOU' INITIATIVE

Cultivating A Greener, Healthier Future For All

"Plants Love You" is a movement initiated by the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) aimed at increasing awareness of the positive impacts that plants have on our health, environment and communities.

The campaign highlights the profound relationship between humans and plants, emphasizing their role in creating healthier and more vibrant spaces for living, working and thriving.

Plants Love You supports national and provincial value chain members: growers, retailers and landscape service providers, as well as allied producers and organizations. Marketing materials validate — not compete with — CNLA’s national initiatives such as Communities in Bloom, the Green Cities Foundation and Count My Tree. Marketing materials also support provincial association initiatives such as Landscape Ontario’s Green for Life and British Columbia’s Plant Something programs.

CNLA members receive up to 50 per cent back on marketing activities that promote the Plants Love You campaign. Participating members will be required to report on the size of reach, circulation of promotion, and

number of website/social media views. Files can be downloaded and used as is or modified to fit local campaigns. For more information about the campaign and how to get involved, please visit PlantsLoveYou.ca, or contact Nicole Xavier, member services coordinator, at nicole@cnla-acpp.ca for more information.

WHAT

CAN I DO TO HELP NURTURE A CLEANER AND GREENER

PLANET? PLANTS ARE YOUR ANSWER!

Plants have long been known for their aesthetic appeal, but their benefits extend beyond mere decoration. Research indicates that incorporating plants into indoor and outdoor spaces can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. Plants are crucial in mitigating climate change by offsetting heat islands in urban areas and improving air quality.

“At its core, the campaign wants us to

think about all the amazing things plants do for us,” said Anita Heuver, CNLA’s Vice President and Communications Committee Chair. “From purifying the air we breathe to enhancing mental well-being and fostering biodiversity, plants possess a remarkable capacity to improve the quality of life for humans in our urban spaces.”

The campaign highlights the economic, environmental and social benefits of plants. From influencing property values to shaping consumer behaviour and community development, plants play a pivotal role in our lives. By adopting the "Plants Love You" slogan, the ornamental horticulture industry aims to showcase the numerous ways in which plants contribute to our collective well-being.

Households are the principal market for plants and services, but businesses, institutions, municipalities and other government agencies also hold significant market share. Plants Love You “plants are your answer” solutions are adapted for each market.

Join the conversation and spread the love for plants using the hashtag #PlantsLoveYou.

Looking for a new tool or some garden inspiration? These new products might just check those boxes for you.

MINI EXCAVATOR

Develon’s smallest mini excavator ever brings precision and performance to the tightest corners of your job site. With its retractable tracks and collapsible dozer blade, the do-it-all Develon 4,200-lb. class DX17Z-7 with a 16-hp engine is stable in confined or sloped spaces, while the open canopy cab offers optimal operator visibility.

Develon | na.develon-ce.com

Winter Equipment introduces the patented MōDUS modular shoe system for the Metal Pless LiveBoxx. The MōDUS polyurethane pads offer superior performance and perform remarkably well without damaging sensitive or decorative road surfaces or ornamental pavers. Winter Equipment Company winterequipment.com

NEWPRODUCTS

BATTERY-POWERED PRUNER

The Echo DPPT-2600H offers commercial landscapers a high-performing power pruner in the electric/battery market. The telescopic shaft reaches up to 16 ft., and then 20 ft. with optional four-foot extension, allowing for easy limbing with your feet on the ground. A variable-speed throttle provides user control for cutting speed.

Echo | echo.ca

TABLESS CELL BATTERY

DEWALT introduces their XR POWERPACK tabless cell battery (DCB2108). The LED indicator gives visibility to the battery's state-of-charge, and DEWALT says this battery is now their best performing 20V MAX* 8 Ah battery, delivering 50 per cent more power and a longer lifespan than previous models.

PEOPLE MOVERS

Built for work and designed for comfort, Toro Vista provides quick and convenient transportation across any property with ease. Vista is available in four-, six-, and eightpassenger models, and the polar white body and assortment of accessories allow for easy customization no matter the venue. Toro Vista is the perfect choice for moving your crew across any large campus, event space, resort or property.

Turf Care Products Canada | turfcare.ca

Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea Hydrangea macrophylla

‘Bailmacseven’ PP34,544, US Utility Patent Pending

Dewalt | dewalt.ca

48” ROTO RAKE - POWER BOX RAKE

Whether Pulverizing soil, leveling and finish grading topsoil and gravel, removing debris, creating ditches and swales, and even scarifying ice in the winter the RotoRake from Reist Industries gets you to the finish.

DUMP TRAILER

Action Trailers has a new ramp/barn combo gate design on N&N's galvanized hydraulic dump trailer. The combo gate integrated ramp revolutionizes equipment loading and unloading. This versatile option converts the trailer’s rear door into a door and ramp, making the process easier as a separate ramp is no longer required.

Action Trailers | actiontrailers.ca

GRANITE STONE PRODUCTS

Landscape professionals looking for a deep, rich black granite for pool copings, steps, and ultra-modern walkways and projects should consider the unique finish of Onyx Black granite from STONEarch. The product has a sparkly appearance, particularly in sunlight, as the fine crystals shine and reflect light.

STONEarch stonearch.ca

NEWPRODUCTS

PETUNIA HYBRID

Suntory’s grower-friendly Surfinia Heavenly series expands with the addition of Blackberries & Cream. The creamy blooms each have a large dark blackberry jam centre. Plants have a mounding, semi-trailing, controlled, mediumvigour plant habit and offer exceptional branching to fill pots.

Suntory Flowers suntoryflowers.com

VIBRANT ECHINACEA

Terra Nova Nurseries says the Echinacea PRIMA ‘Spider’ is their most unusual Echinacea yet. Brilliant, two-toned flowers feature unique strap-shaped petals that start off a strong, salmon-rose colour that shifts as the flowers get more upturned and “spidery,” eventually deepening to magenta, with a violet background.

Terra Nova Nurseries terranovanurseries.com

EXPANDED TOOL LINE

DEWALT unveils several new and improved tools in their 20V MAX* XR lineup, including their most powerful 1/2 in. hammer drill, a three-speed high torque impact driver and the world’s first 20V MAX* 2.25 peak HP dedicated plunge router.

Dewalt | dewalt.ca

On a mission to redefine "blue collar"

MIKAYEL TER-GRIGORYAN is on a mission to redefine how people see careers in the trades. Read on for what he hopes that will mean for the industry — and how it can grow for the future.

What is the Redefine Blue Collar movement?

It’s a movement to shift the culture in the Blue Collar industry for the next generation of talent through education opportunities, media and community. Our goal is to shatter the stigma that surrounds the industry, change perceptions and provide the next generation with the tools they need to take advantage of what I believe is the best industry to build a career in right now.

Redefine Blue Collar has a core mission of attracting and developing the next generation of talent who will build the companies of tomorrow. We’re changing the industry for the next wave of business operators, entrepreneurs, team members and industry leaders.

My fundamental belief is that leaders shape culture, culture drives and attracts talent, and talent (people) build companies. Everything we do is about attracting, retaining, developing and arming great talent with the tools they need to become successful within the blue collar industry.

What does redefining blue collar mean to you personally?

I was always told growing up that if I didn't do well in school I would be forced to lower my standards and work in a blue collar trade. The idea of that was something to be looked down on and seen as a dead end. This sentiment was echoed by family,

friends, peers, romantic relationships and others. Despite these social pressures, I was convinced that I saw something that they were missing. This industry was far from a dead end, but rather a blue ocean of opportunities that, once navigated correctly, would lead to business and personal growth. The challenge for me personally was that I had no map or guidance, nothing and nobody in the industry to look up to for direction. Personally it means having more pride in the work we do every single day and being looked at in the way that I believe you should be perceived when you work in the industry that is quite literally building tomorrow. Personally I have seen the effects of the stigma of the industry, the way that people perceive the trades and the negative impact that this can have on attracting the right talent.

Why do you think this is so important?

I truly believe that with the right exposure and education, the industry is one of the best opportunities for the next generation to grow and see success. I see it as an opportunity to take full advantage of the shift that is happening. Those who are taking that step to enter the space are not only contributing to creating a more prosperous sector, but growing their own careers faster than ever before.

How can leaders of “blue collar” companies help redefine blue collar?

I think it starts with culture, first within their companies, then within the industry as a whole. More specifically I believe it comes down to combining a culture of learning and education with an appetite to embrace change. An investment in their team, a shift in workplace culture, adoption of new technology and raising the standards of professionalism are all examples of needlemoving activities towards this goal.

Much has changed over the last decade, particularly in the way that people work and the dynamics of the work environment. This change needs to cascade into the blue collar industry in order to attract and retain the next generation of talent.

What would you like young people (and their parents) to know about working in the trades?

I would encourage them to keep an open mind and consider it as an option and an opportunity of equal weight and merit as some others they may be considering. I would tell them that it is a unique environment to work in, one that is more open, involves more problem solving, encourages more camaraderie, demands more responsibility, can be fast paced, encourages new ideas and rewards doers. It can, at times, be a very uncontrolled environment that fosters newness and out-of-the-box thinking.

Many young people have a hard time focusing in a classroom environment, needing a conduit for their creativity and energy. They want to be more in control of their work, their environment, their relationships, and what they can create in this world, what they can add value to. I would tell them first hand that the value add and sense of accomplishment that comes with working in the trades is unparalleled.

What is, to your mind, the best part about working in the trades?

I believe the answer should be universal for all industries, and that is undoubtedly the people and the environment. I gravitate towards positive, open, authentic, genuine and honest people who are working in an environment that encourages problem solving, newness and growth.

Mikayel Ter-Grigoryan is president of Just For Snow Inc., located in Concord, Ont.

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