Horticulture Review - December 2010 by Landscape Ontario

LO and industry events

For more Landscape Ontario and industry event listings, visit www.horttrades.com. December 22 Congress Early Bird Deadline Early Bird Deadline! No extensions to the midnight deadline of Dec. 22, will be granted. Registration fees after this date and on-site will be more expensive. Register online at www. locongress.com. January 10 IPM Symposium Toronto Congress Centre A new format and a new energy are promised at the 2011 IPM Symposium. In 2011, this will be a one-time event only, scheduled at the Toronto Congress Centre in the Cohen Ballroom. For a full agenda and details visit www.horttrades. com/ipm-symposium-2011. January 10 Learn about new irrigation techniques Toronto Congress Centre, Waxman Room Don’t miss the 2011 irrigation conference at the Toronto Congress Centre, Waxman Room. The symposium will feature the latest techniques, designs, market forecasts, technology and much more. It all begins at 8 a.m. with registration

and coffee, and concludes at 4:15 p.m. Lunch is included in the registration. Up to Dec. 22, tickets are $75, and go to $100 after that date. More information is available at locongress.com. January 10 Landscape Designer Conference Doubletree Plaza Hotel, International Ballroom, Toronto A full-day design seminar is set for the Doubletree Plaza Hotel, International Ballroom, Toronto. An initiative of the Landscape Ontario Designers Sector, the event begins at 8 a.m. The

information-packed event concludes at 5 p.m., followed by a networking reception. For more information, go to locongress.com. January 11 - January 13 Congress 2011 Toronto Congress Centre, Congress is Canada’s largest horticultural lawn and garden trade show. The exposition covers more than eight acres of exhibits featuring all of the equipment, hard and soft goods required for the construction and maintenance More information is available at www.locongress.com.

Chapter events

For more chapter event listings, visit www.horttrades.com. January 5 Waterloo Chapter Meeting Knights of Columbus, 145 Dearborn Place, Waterloo The Waterloo Chapter meeting runs from 7 to 9 p.m. For more information, contact Helen Hassard at 1-800-265-5656, ext. 354, or helen@landscapeontario.com.

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2 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010

January 19 Upper Canada Chaper meeting Strathcona Paper Centre, Napanee Join the Upper Canada Chapter for a meeting from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information, contact Helen Hassard at 1-800-265-5656, ext. 354, or helen@landscapeontario.com.

LO’s 38th annual trade show and conference will begin 2011 with innovation and education Canada’s international horticultural trade show and conference is just around the corner. The 38th edition of Congress will take place Jan. 11 to 13 at the Toronto Congress Centre. Congress features more than eight acres, containing over 600 exhibitors from eight countries. This year’s Congress is four shows in one, including the Ontario Parks Association’s Explorations trade show, Fencecraft produced by the Canadian Fence Industry Association and the Green Forum, sponsored by Communities in Bloom. Educational sessions Congress is well-known for its educational sessions, many of which now focus on green initiatives. The four-day conference program begins Mon., Jan. 10, with specialized symposia. The concurrent conference runs from Jan. 11 through 13, featuring 32 seminars. Some of the industry’s most dynamic speakers will take over the podiums sharing expertise and insights in all areas of business success. Jeff Scott and Charles Vander Kooi are back by popular demand. A new panel featuring successful young Landscape Ontario entrepreneurs promises to be a program highlight. “Congress Conference is strategically timed for professional landscape firms, who invest in professional development for themselves and their employees,” says Sally Harvey, manager of education, labour development and membership

services for Landscape Ontario. “Progressive employers are increasing their investment in training to sustain a stable and professional work force. More importantly, they are aware of the business advantage of having certified and competent staff when tendering bids.” Six pillars Congress 2011 Conference focuses on the six pillars of business excellence. The six pillars of business excellence are: Sales Success, Financial Health, Customers for Life, Professional Operations, Leadership Excellence and Technical Education. The conference will feature some of the hottest trends in the industry covering the basics of green roofs, green walls, and rain gardens. Numerous sessions will focus on sustainable business practices and issues such as customer willingness to pay more for plants and/ or gardens that are free of chemicals. Urban forest sustainability will consider the vegetation resource, the community framework, and management approaches to sustainably managing urban forest resources. Most of the pre-show symposia, normally held at the Doubletree by Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel, will move to the Toronto Congress Centre on Jan. 10. However, the Landscape Designer Symposium will remain at the Doubletree. Celebrate excellence Join Landscape Ontario’s members at the Awards

of Excellence ceremony on the evening of Jan. 11 in celebration of the talent and creativity of landscape contractors, designers and interior plantscape professions. Besides being an exciting evening to network with members of your professional community, meet LO’s president Tom Intven at the President’s Reception, preceding the ceremony. It’s a great opportunity to enhance your relationship with peers, staff and LO Board members. Celebrate green spaces The Ontario Parks Association, Communities in Bloom and Landscape Ontario have come together for the third time to celebrate parks and green spaces, and promote the enjoyment and healthy lifestyle benefits open spaces provide to Canadians. Join over 200 municipal leaders, parks staff and community stakeholders gathering to develop strategies encouraging people of all ages and abilities to enjoy gardening, recreational parks, parklands and landscapes. Back in 2009, Congress was the first Zero Waste trade show ever held at the Toronto Congress Centre. Since that time, it is estimated that 179 trees and 697 cubic yards of landfill have been saved by LO’s shows. For more information on the Congress symposia and conferences, or to register, go to www. locongress.com. A full conference pass starts at $135. One day passes are from $85, or $60 for one session. Conference passes for students start at $30.

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HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010 3

Landscape Ontario staff LO staff members are committed to member service. Please call with your questions or concerns. Tel: (905) 875-1805 or 1-800-265-5656 Fax: (905) 875-3942 Web: www.horttrades.com

Landscape Ontario’s mandate is to be the leader in representing, promoting and fostering a favourable environment for the advancement of the horticultural industry in Ontario. Suffix for all e-mail addresses below: @landscapeontario.com

Executive Board

Windsor Chapter

President

President: Mark Williams Board rep: Garry Moore

Past president

Garden Centre

Tom Intven, tintven@ Robert Adams, robertadams@ First vice-president

Tim Kearney CLP, tkearney@

E-mail suffix for all staff members: @landscapeontario.com Executive director Tony DiGiovanni CHT, ext. 304, tonydigiovanni@ Executive assistant Kathleen Pugliese, ext. 309, kpugliese@ Controller Joe Sabatino, ext. 310, jsabatino@

Chair: Michael Van Dongen Board rep: Bob McCannell, bmccannell@

Manager, education, and labour development, Sally Harvey CLT, CLP, ext. 315, sharvey@

Grounds Management

Administrative assistant Jane Leworthy, ext. 301, jleworthy@

Second vice-president

Chair: Mike DeBoer, CHT Board rep: Brian Marsh

Secretary/treasurer

Growers

Provincial Board

Interior Plantscapes

Membership coordinator, Helen Hassard, ext. 354, hhassard@

Irrigation

Chapter coordinator, London Chapter Wendy Harry, 519-488-0818, wharry@

Phil Charal, pcharal@ Jacki Hart CLP

Durham Chapter

President: Greg Scarlett Board rep: Mark Humphries, mhumphries@

Georgian Lakelands Chapter

Chairs: Mark Ostrowski Board rep: Dave Braun Chair and board rep: Stephen Schell CHTI Chair: Chris Le Conte Board rep: Steve Macartney CIT, smacartney@

Education, labour, and certification project coordinator Rachel Cerelli, ext. 326, rachelc@ Seminar and safety group coordinator Kathy McLean, ext. 306, kathym@

Chapter coordinator, Ottawa Chapter Martha Walsh, ext. 368, mwalsh@

President: Michael LaPorte CHTC Board rep: Warren Patterson

Landscape Contractors Chair and board rep: Peter Guinane

Golden Horseshoe Chapter

Manager, information technology Ian Service, 416-848-7555, iservice@

Lawn Care

Manager, Pesticide Industry Council Tom Somerville, tsomerville@

President: Fiore Zenone Board rep: Brian Cocks CLT

London Chapter

President: Grant Harrison CLP Board rep: Peter Vanderley CLP

Ottawa Chapter

President: Sarah Johnston Board rep: Bruce Morton CLP, CIT

Toronto Chapter

President: Lindsay Drake Nightingale Board rep: Ryan Heath CLP

Upper Canada Chapter

President: Dan Clost CHTR Board rep: Paul Doornbos CHTM, CLP

Waterloo Chapter

President: Rob Tester Board rep: David Wright CLP

Chair: Steve Tschanz Board rep: Alan White, awhite@

Landscape Design Chair: Tony Lombardi CLD Board rep: Paul Brydges

Lighting

Executive director Ontario Parks Association Paul Ronan, ext. 349, pronan@ Director of events and trade shows Gilles Bouchard, ext. 323, gbouchard@ Trade show manager Paul Day CDE, ext. 339, paulday@

Chair and Board rep: John Higo

Trade show manager Lorraine Ivanoff, ext. 366, lpi@

Snow and Ice Management

Trade show coordinator Linda Nodello, ext. 353, lnodello@

Chair: John Fulford Board rep: Gerald Boot CLP, geraldboot@

Members at Large Gregg Salivan Bruce Warren

CNLA Board Rep

Gerald Boot CLP, geraldboot@

For subscription and address changes, please e-mail subscriptions@landscapeontario.com

4 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010

Editorial director Sarah Willis, ext. 313, sarahw@ Editor Allan Dennis, ext. 320, aldennis@

Art director Melissa Steep, 647-723-5447, msteep@

The Voice of Landscape Ontario

Views expressed in Horticulture Review are those of the writer concerned. Horticulture Review and Landscape Ontario assume no responsibility for the validity or correctness of any opinions or references made by the author. Copyright 2010, reproduction or the use of whole or any part of the contents without written permission is prohibited. Published 12x per year. Rates and deadlines are available on request. Subscription price: $43.51 per year (HST included).

Director of public relations Denis Flanagan CLD, ext. 303, dflanagan@ Publisher Lee Ann Knudsen CLP, ext. 314, lak@

Web editor Robert Ellidge, ext. 312, rob@

Horticulture Review December 15, 2010 • Volume 28, No. 12

Conference and events coordinator, Kristen McIntyre CLT, ext. 321, kristen@

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

My Christmas gift to all of you: humour By Tom Intven LO president

t this festive time, I would like to share a little humour with all of you. Much of it is horticultural humour. In our hectic, stressed-filled lives, one of the true relief mechanisms that we can turn to is humour. It helps to put life in perspective and provide us with a little balance. If this message can elicit even a small grin, I will have accomplished what I intended. Tom Intven

You might be a redneck gardener if: You’ve ever cleaned your house with a leaf blower. You think a chainsaw is a musical instrument. You move your refrigerator, and the grass underneath it is yellow. Kudzu covers your arbour. You empty the trash when you have enough to fill the pick up. You can amuse yourself for more than an hour with a hose. You’ve been cited for reckless driving on a riding lawn mower. Short jokes Why are husbands like lawn mowers? They are difficult to get started, emit foul smells, and don’t work half the time. - Author Unknown Have you heard about the Garlic Diet? You don’t lose much weight, but from a distance your friends think you look thinner. What did the plant geneticist get when he crossed baked beans and onions? Tear gas. The same geneticist claims to have found a way to extend all our lives: he’s implanted genes into vegetables to make them smell like bacon. Why don’t you ever iron a four-leaf clover? You might press your luck. What do you get when you cross that four-leaf clover with poison ivy? A rash of good luck. Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad. Non-horticultural puns A pessimist’s blood type is always b-negative.

A Freudian slip is when you say one thing, but it means your mother. Without geometry, life is pointless. When you dream in colour, it’s a pigment of your imagination. Corduroy pillows are making headlines. A hangover is the wrath of grapes. Does the name Pavlov ring a bell? Puns Don’t expect a bonsai tree to grow the miniature planting it. The research assistant couldn’t experiment with plants, because he hadn’t botany. Old gardeners never die, they just vegetate. I will cut the grass only when I get mowtivated. A fruit tree A young girl knew how much her mother liked flowers, and when she was nine years old felt this justified taking some branches from our the neighbour’s blossoming fruit tree. Realizing where she had found them, but recognizing that her intention was to please her, the mother didn’t scold her but chose a different approach. “These are lovely, Bonnie, but do you realize that if you had left them on the tree, each of these blossoms would have become a cherry?” “No, they wouldn’t have,” Bonnie stated firmly. “Oh, yes, they would have. Each of the blossoms would have grown into a cherry.” “No, they wouldn’t,” Bonnie said stubbornly. He mother retorted somewhat angrily, “Bonnie, each one of these blossoms would have become a cherry!” “Well, okay,” Bonnie finally conceded, “but they were plums last year!” Humorous epigrams “Only a mediocre person is always at his best.” (Somerset Maugham) “An ethical man is a Christian holding four aces.” (Mark Twain) “An optimist is one who believes everything he reads on the jacket of a new book.” (unknown) “A pessimist is one who, when he has the choice of two evils, chooses both.” (unknown) “Friendship is like money, easier made than kept.” (Samuel Butler) “Guilt is the gift that keeps on giving.” (Erma Bombeck)

“History is a set of lies agreed upon.” (Napoleon Bonaparte) “Always forgive your enemies – nothing annoys them so much.” (Oscar Wilde) “You can’t get spoiled if you do your own ironing.” (Meryl Streep) “Consistency is the last refuge of the unimaginative.” (Oscar Wilde) “Old age isn’t so bad when you consider the alternative.” (Maurice Chevalier) “Bravery is being the only person who knows you’re afraid.” (Franklin P. Jones) “A critic is someone who leaves no turn unstoned.” (George Bernard Shaw) “Idealism increases in direct proportion to one’s distance from the problem.” (John Galsworthy). Humorous quotations • “We can’t all be heroes, because someone has to sit on the curb and clap as they go by.” (Will Rogers) • “If all economists were laid end to end, they would not reach a conclusion.” (George Bernard Shaw) • “I went to a fight the other night and a hockey game broke out.” (Rodney Dangerfield) • “Heaven and hell: I don’t want to express an opinion. You see, I have friends in both places.” (Mark Twain) • “It’s not true that I had nothing on. I had the radio on.” (Marilyn Monroe) • “If you look like your passport photo, in all probability you need the holiday.” (Earl Wilson) Wishing you all the very best this holiday season. Tom Intven may be reached at 519-631-1008, or tintven@landscapeontario.com.

Don’t miss AGM LO Annual General Meeting will take place Jan. 12, Doubletree International Plaza Hotel, 655 Dixon Rd., Toronto. Free breakfast is served, starting at 7:30 a.m. Rsvp Kathleen Pugliese at 1-800-265-5656, ext. 309, or kathleenp@landscapeontario.com.

HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010 5

Hillen Nursery Inc Botanical Name

Qty. 1 Gal Qty. 2 Gal Qty. 3 Gal Botanical Name Avail. Price Avail. Price Avail. Price

VINES Ampelopsis glandulosa Elegans 260 8.00 Aristolochia durior 139 Campsis radicans Balboa Sunset 273 8.00 Celastrus orbiculatus Diana 162 8.00 Celastrus orbiculatus Hercules 221 8.00 Hydrangea anomala petiolaris 185 6.00 318 8.00 Lonicera japonica Halliana 144 8.00 Parthenocissus tricus. Veitchii 1,000 6.00 Polygonum aubertii 968 6.00 EVERGREENS Azalea Golden Lights 120 Azalea Northern Lights 225 Azalea Orchid Lights 290 Buxus Faulkner 100 5.00 330 Buxus microphylla 49 5.00 532 Buxus X Green Gem 379 5.20 555 Buxus X Green Mound 995 5.00 1,000 Buxus X Green Mountain 630 5.00 176 Buxus X Green Velvet 1,000 5.20 1,000 Chamaecyparis pisifera Aurea Sungold 100 5.00 261 Chamaecyparis pisifera Filifera 190 5.00 175 Chamaecyparis pisifera Filifera Aurea 100 5.00 29 Cotoneaster dammeri Coral Beauty 1,000 5.00 Cotoneaster dammeri Major 230 7.00 Cotoneaster salicifolius Repens 1,000 7.00 Euonymus fortunei `Emerald ‘n Gold` 950 7.00 Euonymus fortunei Canadale Gold 295 5.00 912 7.00 Euonymus fortunei Coloratus 349 5.00 Euonymus fortunei Emerald Gaiety 1,000 7.00 Euonymus fortunei Emerald Gaiety BL 240 7.00 Euonymus fortunei Emerald ‘n Gold 180 5.00 Euonymus fortunei Goldtip 831 7.00 Euonymus fortunei Sunrise 426 7.00 Euonymus fortunei Surespot 514 7.00 Euonymus fortunei Vegetus 207 7.00 Ilex X meserveae Blue Prince 965 5.00 362 Ilex X meserveae Blue Princess 1,000 5.00 665 Juniperus chinensis Gold Coast 246 Juniperus chinensis Gold Star 400 5.00 355 Juniperus chinensis Mint Julep 400 5.00 410 Juniperus chinensis Pfitz. Compacta 300 5.00 63 Juniperus chinensis San Jose 250 5.00 137 Juniperus communis Green Carpet 451 Juniperus communis Repanda 260 5.00 Juniperus conferta Blue Pacific 250 5.00 292 Juniperus horizontalis Andorra Compacta 1,000 5.00 562 Juniperus horizontalis Bar Harbor 200 5.00 75 Juniperus horizontalis Icee Blue 341 6.00 1,000 Juniperus horizontalis Turquoise Spreader 200 5.00 307 Juniperus horizontalis Wiltonii 450 5.00 Juniperus horizontalis Yukon Belle 400 5.00 938 Juniperus media Armstrongii 142 5.00 250 Juniperus procumbens nana 200 5.00 302 Juniperus sabina 200 5.00 284 Juniperus sabina Buffalo 261 Juniperus squamata Blue Carpet 150 5.00 296 Juniperus squamata Blue Star 282 Juniperus virginiana Grey Owl 100 5.00 212 Larix laricina 250 7.00 Metasequoia glyptostroboides 297 7.00 Microbiota decussata 729 5.00 70 Picea abies 232 7.00 Picea glauca 481 7.00 Picea pungens glauca 631 7.00 Picea pungens glauca StJuan 696 7.00 Picea pungens Globosa 805

6 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010

11.00

13.50 13.50 13.50 11.00 11.00 11.20 11.00 11.00 11.20 11.00 11.00 11.00

11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 13.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00

22.00

Qty. 1 Gal Qty. 2 Gal Qty. 3 Gal Avail. Price Avail. Price Avail. Price

Pinus mugo var. mugo Pinus strobus Taxus X media Densiformis 385 5.00 Taxus X media Hicksii 636 5.00 Taxus X media Hillii Taxus X media Wardii 700 5.00 Thuja occidentalis Thuja occidentalis Brandon 98 5.00 Thuja occidentalis Little Giant 385 5.00 Thuja occidentalis Nigra 1,000 5.00 Thuja occidentalis Smaragd 1,000 5.00 Thuja occidentalis Wintergreen 538 5.00 Thuja plicata Spring Grove 54 5.00 Tsuga canadensis 1,000 5.00 10 7.00 Yucca filamentosa 223 7.00

1,000 1,000 217 1,000 368 43 247 245 135 1,000 375 474 535 1,000 49

11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00

DECIDUOUS SHRUBS Acanthopanax sieboldianus 734 7.00 Acer ginnala 179 7.00 Acer rubrum 911 7.00 Acer saccharinum 624 7.00 Acer saccharum 442 7.00 Alnus rugosa 663 7.00 Amelanchier canadensis 1,000 7.00 Aronia mel. Autumn Magic 242 7.00 Aronia melanocarpa 642 7.00 Aronia X prunifolia Viking 253 7.00 Berberis thunbergii Rose Glow 439 6.00 412 Berberis thunbergii Royal Burgundy 340 Buddleia davidii Black Knight 422 7.00 Buddleia davidii Ellen’s Blue 404 7.00 Buddleia davidii Ile de France 583 7.00 Buddleia davidii Nanho Purple 476 7.00 Buddleia davidii Petite Plum 650 7.00 Buddleia davidii Pink Delight 433 7.00 Buddleia davidii Purple Prince 908 7.00 Buddleia davidii Royal Red 357 7.00 Buddleia davidii White Profusion 322 7.00 Caryopteris clandonensis Grand Blue 281 7.35 Cephalanthus occidentalis 289 7.00 Cercis canadensis 705 7.00 Chaenomeles speciosa Nivalis 402 7.00 Chaenomeles speciosa Rubra 692 7.00 Chaenomeles speciosa Texas Scarlet 633 7.00 Chaenomeles sup.Crimson and Gold 226 7.00 Clethra alnifolia Paniculatum 305 7.00 Clethra alnifolia Pink Spire 434 7.00 Cornus alba Elegantissima 1,000 7.00 Cornus alba Gouchaultii 226 7.00 Cornus alba Ivory Halo 919 7.45 Cornus alba Red Gnome 211 7.00 Cornus stolonifera Kelseyi 1,000 7.00 Corylus americana 220 7.00 Corylus avellana Contorta 206 15.00 Cotoneaster acutifolius 590 7.00 Cotoneaster apiculatus 347 7.00 Cotoneaster preacox Boer 1,000 7.00 Deutzia crenata Nikko 809 7.00 Deutzia gracilis 490 7.00 Diervilla lonicera 639 7.00 Euonymus alatus Compactus 1,000 5.00 134 8.00 722 Forsythia Kumson 467 7.00 Forsythia X inter. Northern Gold 1,000 7.00 Forsythia X intermedia Goldtide 180 7.00 Forsythia X intermedia Lynwood 684 7.00 Genista tinctoria Royal Gold 201 7.00 Hamamelis virginiana 157 7.00 Hibiscus syriacus Diana 218 5.00 241 Hibiscus syriacus Lavender Chiffon 231 5.60

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Many More Cultivars and sizes available Qty. 1 Gal Qty. 2 Gal Qty. 3 Gal Botanical Name Avail. Price Avail. Price Avail. Price

Hibiscus syriacus White Chiffon 207 5.60 150 Hibiscus syriacus Woodbridge 468 5.00 19 Hydrangea arborescens Annabelle 1,000 7.00 Hydrangea arborescens Dardom 108 7.60 Hydrangea macr. Bouquet Rose 326 7.00 Hydrangea macr. Endless Summer Blushing Bride 157 Hydrangea macr. Penny Mac 265 7.30 Hydrangea paniculata Kyushu 472 7.00 Hydrangea paniculata Little Lamb 349 7.60 Hydrangea paniculata Pinky Winky 423 7.60 Hydrangea paniculata Tardiva 263 7.00 Hydrangea paniculata Unique 115 7.00 Hydrangea quercifolia PeeWee 244 Hydrangea serrata Bluebird 248 7.00 Ilex verticillata Jim Dandy 185 7.00 Ilex verticillata Afterglow Female 1,000 7.00 Ilex verticillata Southern Gentleman 335 7.00 Ilex verticillata Winterred 143 7.00 Itea virginica Henry’s Garnet 346 7.00 Kolkwitzia amabilis Pink Cloud 1,000 7.00 Ligustrum jap. Aureomarginata 193 7.00 Ligustrum ovalufolium 260 7.00 Ligustrum vulgare 356 7.00 Liriodendron tulipefera 335 8.50 Lonicera tatarica Arnold Red 347 7.00 Lonicera xylosteum Clavey’s Dwarf 227 7.00 Lonicera xylosteum Emerald Mound 832 7.00 Lonicera xylosteum Miniglobe 741 7.00 Magnolia stellata Royal Star 214 Magnolia X Butterfly 163 Magnolia X loebneri Leonard Messel 315 Magnolia x Susan 212 Philadelphus coronarius Aureus 173 7.00 Philadelphus Innocence 732 7.00 Philadelphus Minn.Snowflake Dwarf 209 7.00 Philadelphus Minnesota Snowflake 484 7.00 Philadelphus X Natchez 154 7.00 Philadelphus X virginalis 527 7.00 Physocarpus opulifolius 856 7.00 Physocarpus opulifolius Diabolo 1,000 7.60 1,000 Physocarpus opulifolius Summer Wine 150 7.85 Populus tremuloides 586 7.00 Potentilla fruticosa Coronation Triumph 1,000 7.00 Potentilla fruticosa Dakota Sunrise 1,000 7.00 Potentilla fruticosa Gold Drop 307 7.00 Potentilla fruticosa Goldfinger 120 7.00 Potentilla fruticosa Goldstar 1,000 7.00 Potentilla fruticosa Mango Tango 285 7.00 Potentilla fruticosa McKay’s White 299 7.00 Potentilla fruticosa Tangerine 436 7.00 Prunus cistena 1,000 5.00 1,000 7.00 Prunus incisa Kojou-no-mai 57 7.00 Quercus alba 161 7.00 Quercus bicolor 493 7.00 Quercus macrocarpa 260 7.00 Quercus palustris 132 7.00 Quercus robur Fastigiata 1,000 9.00 Rhus typhina 1,000 7.00 Rhus typhina Tiger Eyes 88 10.50 384 Rosa Henry Kelsey 376 7.00 Rosa Bonica 1,000 7.00 Rosa Carolina 1,000 7.00 Rosa J P Connell 405 7.00 Rosa palustris 150 7.00 Rosa rugosa 1,000 7.00 Rosa rugosa Alba 125 7.00 Rosa rugosa Morden Blush 231 7.00 Rosa x Champlain 399 7.00 Rosa x George Vancouver 324 7.00

8.60 8.00

14.00

11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00

8.60

12.50

Qty. 1 Gal Qty. 2 Gal Qty. 3 Gal Avail. Price Avail. Price Avail. Price

Rosa x Morden Amorette 162 7.00 Salix caprea 137 7.00 Salix discolor 1,000 7.00 Salix eriocephala 1,000 7.00 Salix exigua 1,000 7.00 Salix gracilis Purpurea Nana 979 7.00 Salix nigra 70 7.00 Sambucus canadensis Aurea 1,000 7.00 Sambucus nigra Black Lace 160 9.50 80 Sambucus pubens 271 7.00 Sorbaria aitchisonii 340 7.00 Sorbaria sorbifolia 108 7.00 Sorbaria sorbifolia Sem 498 7.00 22 Spiraea alba 1,000 7.00 Spiraea arguta 282 7.00 Spiraea betulifolia Tor 255 7.00 Spiraea bumalda Gold Mound 1,000 7.00 Spiraea japonica Anthony Waterer 1,000 7.00 Spiraea japonica Crispa 1,000 7.00 Spiraea japonica Dakota Goldcharm 631 7.00 Spiraea japonica Darts Red 116 7.00 Spiraea japonica Flaming Mound 655 7.00 Spiraea japonica Froebelii 1,000 7.00 Spiraea japonica Genpei 324 Spiraea japonica Golden Princess 353 7.00 Spiraea japonica Goldflame 1,000 7.00 Spiraea japonica Little Princess 1,000 7.00 Spiraea japonica Shirobana 383 7.00 Spiraea japonica White Gold 278 7.00 Spiraea nipponica Snowmound 346 7.00 Spiraea vanhouttei 131 7.00 Stephanandra incisa Crispa 73 7.00 Symphoricarpos albus 1,000 7.00 Symphoricarpos chenaultii Hancock 323 7.00 Syringa meyeri Palibin 592 7.00 Syringa patula Miss Kim 122 7.00 94 Syringa Tinkerbelle 680 7.50 Syringa vulgaris 209 7.00 Syringa vulgaris Beauty of Moscow 174 7.00 Syringa vulgaris Monge 41 7.00 50 Syringa vulgaris Primrose 190 7.00 Syringa vulgaris Sensation 47 7.00 107 Syringa X prestoniae Minuet 165 7.00 Tilia cordata 348 7.00 Viburnum carlcephalum 71 Viburnum dentatum Blue Muffin 77 7.45 Viburnum dentatum Chicago Lustre 515 7.00 Viburnum nudum Winterthur 120 7.00 Viburnum opulus Roseum 207 7.00 19 Viburnum plic. Summer Snowflake 167 7.00 Viburnum plicatum Mariesii 342 10.00 Viburnum plicatum Shasta 168 7.00 Viburnum trilobum 303 7.00 Weigela florida Alexandra 415 7.60 Weigela florida Bristol Ruby 302 7.00 Weigela florida Bristol Snowflake 88 7.00 Weigela florida French Lace 291 7.60 Weigela florida Java Red 305 7.00 Weigela florida Minor Black 105 7.00 Weigela florida Minuet 232 7.00 Weigela florida Nana Variegata 651 7.00 Weigela florida Polka 625 7.00 Weigela florida Purpurea Nana 1,000 7.00 Weigela florida Red Prince 350 7.00 Weigela florida Rumba 607 7.00 Weigela florida Tango 297 7.00 Weigela florida Variegata 103 7.00 Weigela florida Victoria 170 7.00

11.50

8.00

8.00 8.00 14.00

8.00

RR 2, Mount Brydges, ON N0L 1W0 Tel: 519-264-9057 • Fax: 519-264-1337 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010 7

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

LO members make a positive difference Tony DiGiovanni CHTR LO executive director

“W

hat do all those people at Landscape Ontario do anyway?” Every so often I get asked this question. It is the right question to ask. If you read the annual report from cover to cover, you will get a good idea. But I want to challenge you to do more. The only way to get the full story is to participate. The only way to get the full benefit of membership is to engage with Tony DiGiovanni the programs, activities and governance of your association. I will guarantee that you will benefit personally, financially and professionally. The return on your investment will be much higher, as you transition from observer to participant to leadership. Now let’s answer the question more directly. You are an owner and investor in Landscape

Ontario. Collectively, you have determined that the job of the association is to grow a prosperous, professional, ethical, valued and recognized green industry. This job is multi-dimensional and never-ending. No matter how many people we employ, you will require more, because it is not possible to complete the job of advancing an industry. What is the reality? Your financial investment in Landscape Ontario is roughly the cost of a coffee and doughnut a day. Of course, this does not include the huge investment of unpaid time and resources made by all the volunteers on various boards, committee and task forces. Collectively, this financial investment is equal to about $1-million. This is leveraged to approximately $9-million of mission-related activity. We are one of the largest horticultural trades associations in the world. Our direct points of contact with the industry, public and government number in the hundreds of thousands. We produce four of the best horticultural trade shows in Canada and two premier magazines. We provide education opportu-

8 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010

nities for over 20,000 people. We organize over 200 seminars and events. We have become a professional development centre with over 1,800 students. We provide government relations services and host the largest consumer flower and garden show in Canada. We are the conduit for a community of mutual benefit and improvement and act as the human resources arm of the industry. We are focused on improving the image of our great and important occupation. We represent you. “We” really means “you.” By supporting the LO community, you are making a positive difference in promoting, representing and fostering the growth of the horticultural industry. So what are all those people at Landscape Ontario doing? We are working to advance the industry and provide benefit to you. The details are in the rest of this issue, under the annual report. After reading it, you will know the answer to the question, and some you hadn’t even thought of asking. Tony DiGiovanni may be reached at tonydigiovanni@landscapeontario.com.

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Stay tuned By Denis Flanagan CLD Director of public relations

ollowing our press release entitled, Gifts from Your Garden, it has been a busy December with several media opportunities, including interviews/demonstration on TV with Anwar Knight on CTV Live from The Seasons Show, York region Rogers TV on location in Markham, Mississauga Rogers TV in studio, CHCH Morning News in Hamilton, and CTS channel in Burlington. Denis Flanagan The great thing about taping TV in December is the stations often repeat the segments during the holiday season, which means prolonged exposure for the Landscape Ontario’s Green for Life brand. The proof of course is in the pudding (Christmas, or otherwise). We have documented a steady increase in visits to the LO website over the past year.

Busy media season The first few months of 2011 is also shaping up as a busy season. We will be marketing your association at many venues, including the following: Jan. 10-13, Green Communities event at Congress with Ontario Lieutenant Governor David Onley as the headline speaker. We will also host a meeting of garden writers. Jan 28-30, The London Lifestyle Show, in conjunction with the local LO Chapter, will stage demonstrations and radio interviews. Feb 9, Leaside Garden Club show, with a presentation on hardscaping. Mar. 4-6, Kingston Garden Festival, with presentations on Family Day and on local cable TV. Mar. 11-20, Canada Blooms gives us a great opportunity to strut our stuff to the public and the media during construction and throughout the show. It’s a great showcase for the spectacular LO display, the Skills Canada competition, a tribute garden to Oscar Petersen, and a special appearance of Guerilla Gardeners from the

Toronto Chapter. Mar. 24-27, Ottawa Home Show will give presentations on stage and on local TV. Apr. 1-3, Sarnia Home Show, will highlight stage and local radio presentations about new plants varieties for 2011. Apr. 4, Success with Gardening Show in Mississauga, combines presentations with The Master Gardeners. Apr. 20, Presentation at The Strathroy Horticulture Society meeting. Apr. 16-17, Rounding out the month with presentations on trends in horticulture at the Scugog Garden Festival. Speaking of trends, I will be working with Helen Hassard and Allan Dennis to publicize all the events we are involved in across the province through social media. As a member benefit in 2011, prepare to be tweeted. Denis Flanagan may be reached by email at dflanagan@landscapeontario.com.

THE UNDERGROUND WORLD

Contractors can help themselves with one-time ALAs By Terry Murphy CLP

he number of underground strikes are on the rise. Unfortunately, the landscape industry itself is the only one that can do something about it. Yes, we have legislation, penalties and fines, and yes they are all deterrents. But, the only way to reduce these costly hits is to make a commitment that we are going to do something about it. We need to learn more about the underground. We need to participate in Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance (ORCGA) awareness sessions and make sure our employees understand all the underground issues and damage prevention techniques. We as an industry must talk about ways to avoid these hits, be aware of the dangers (even loss of life potential) and learn more about the underground liabilities that exist. It goes without saying that obtaining locates is a given in order to prevent an underground hit, but there is new process that can assist in this regard. It is called Alternative Locate Agreement, or ALA.

The utilities and the authorities (Technical Standards and Safety Association, Electrical Safety Association, Ministry of Labour) created the ALA process to assist contractors that marginally dig into the soil. It exists for the contractor who may only dig less than 12 inches on a project. It is ideal for an irrigation contractor, or a soft landscaper planting annuals, or laying sod, etc. It does not fit an installer of trees, etc. The process allows an excavating contractor to register with utility in their respective market area. The contractor signs an agreement that confirms they do not dig more than a foot. Once an ALA is signed, which is a legal document and binding agreement between the contractor and the utility, the contractor obtains permission for the locates over the phone. This eliminates the need for waiting days for the actual paint lines to go onto the ground. A contractor requires the locate paperwork, which must be posted at the work site. This can save many days, or even weeks of delay by eliminating the wait time for a locate company. The utilities want contractors to use ALAs as part of the damage prevention strategy.

In the spring of 2010 in the Ottawa area, locates were taking four to five weeks because of an unusual demand, an early spring and a shortage of qualified locate staff. If an irrigation contractor, for example, was using the ALA process, they could have proceeded with only a two to three days wait, which is the time it takes to get the paperwork. Now that the 2010 season is coming to an end, it is time to start thinking about and planning for next year. Every contractor (particularly in the irrigation field) should obtain an ALA agreement with each utility in his or her area. Once you have it, keep it, as it is good for a lifetime! It is a one-time application process and you may use it year after year. This is one way that may save you a great deal of time and effort, while you are still fulfilling your locate responsibility. And, it will definitely speed up the locate process. Call your local utility now and get the ALA paperwork started for the 2011 season. Terry Murphy may be contacted at tvmurphy@ca.inter.net.

HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010 9

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

A long history with the underground world Editor’s note: The following letter was written in response to Terry Murphy’s column, The Underground World, which began its publication schedule in Horticulture Review in the November 2010 issue. Terry, your article in the November issue of Horticulture Review on the underground world was interesting. As someone who has worked in landscaping for over 20 years, I am still learning about the requirements and work one must do to obtain the necessary locates. In the last 20 years, I can remember hitting three gas lines and one larger phone line (100 pair) along with numerous individual phone and cable lines. In one case, the gas line was only four inches below the turf and the result was that the local utility was fined by TSSA for substandard installation. We had obtained locates and were not digging in this area, simply removing a pile of soil that was on the lawn. The other two gas lines were hit from not having called in locates. They were ¾-inch

services to the home. The first one was hit in the first year of my starting and cost us $200 to repair. At that time there were no investigations. The second was some years ago and cost us $500 to repair, along with a small accident investigation fee from the TSSA. As you mentioned in the article, things have become much more expensive. Our current system of calling in locates prior to starting work, reviewing them to be sure all is in order, and going over them with crews working on site has greatly improved our track record. One way to cover the time required for the work involved is to add in a small fee to each estimate; $300 is a good starting point. However, even with this systematic approach, I find that things do not always go smoothly. I do not recall when, but a number of years ago Rogers and Bell stopped coming out to do locates, unless a major line is located on the property. This means that the phone or cable line going to a residence or a small commercial service is not located. Instead, a clearance certificate is given allowing the con-

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tractor to work. If a line is damaged during work, then the company will repair the service at no cost. This, however, does not make for a happy customer when their service can be disconnected for several days before repair. It may also be a service to the neighbour’s house that is affected, as these lines can easily cross property lines and run in very confusing ways. We try to locate the line prior to working, but in many cases, three or more lines can be found as old ones are not removed if damaged. To add further problems, some neighbourhoods have had the main service switched from the rear yard to the front, leaving obsolete wires at every residence. In a case at my own residence, while edging the garden, I cut my phone line that was only buried one inch below the turf. I am not sure if damaging a Bell or cable wire is considered a hit, if they are not even being located. We also recently came across a wire for street lighting while doing landscaping in the rear yard. In Ottawa, this service is not covered by Ontario One Call, but rather we must call a separate service company that marks the lines on behalf of the city. I had not thought to call for locates for street lighting, as we were working in the rear yard and nowhere near the road. However, in this case the wire ran along the side property line from rear to front. Apparently the service wires can cross anywhere rather than just following the road. We did not damage the wire, so no costs were incurred, but it could easily have been several thousand dollars. In trying to reduce hits, one must have all utilities mandated to be part of a service like Ontario One Call. This will eliminate the need for contractors to call three or four different services that we must currently contact to ensure that no services are accidently left off. Also, it is a good idea to have the entire property marked, even if working only in a specific area of the yard. One may be asked during work to do some additional items, which were not in an area located. This can add substantial delay to completion of the project and one may consider taking a risk to get the work done. It is also important to ask for both public and private property to be located. This was added a number of years back to reduce work for the companies doing locates. However, it is difficult to know where the road allowance may end and the owner’s property begins.

Personally, I feel that this should not be a condition of locates. They should go back to the previous system of marking everything without one needing to ask. Water stand pipes are another frequent problem, as they can be buried, sometimes over one foot deep. We have a supply of parts given to us by the city to use if the damage is minor, but if it is more serious, the city will come out to repair. This can add delay to the job. In one case, the city found the valve to be non-functional (not due to our work, just too due to age) and had to dig up the yard to replace it. This took three to four weeks to get done, resulting in an unhappy homeowner. When working on larger projects, markings can disappear due to work and weather. I find the system of having re-locates done after 30 days being considered as new locates, a real pain. This means calling in again to get everything done, even if you just want the gas line relocated. Having to pull off a job is very expensive and should not be caused by having to wait for things to get relocated. It also delays things and consequently causes us to take risks; we should not be doing to get the job done on time. Our firm works on three to five jobs at

the same time. Trying to figure out start dates for locates is always a problem. If called in too early, the markings can be difficult to see. If called in too late, we cannot start the job. This summer in Ottawa, we had a huge backlog problem causing some contractors to stop working. Locates must be done within a standard time â&#x20AC;&#x201C; five days is reasonable, but it used to take three. Frequently, only paint is used and after a couple of lawn cuts, things disappear. Flags should be a standard. Proper distances should also be shown on the plan, to find faded markings, but the distance is not always shown. Last, but not least, is the tendency of some personnel doing markings to paint everything in sight. Proper training is critical. I had a commercial site located and the parking lot was lit-up like a Christmas tree. Needless to say, the owner was not happy. I look forward to your work in this area to reduce hits and make our businesses easier to run. Marc Arnold Rockcliffe Landscaping Ottawa

HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010â&#x20AC;&#x192; 11

SYSTEMS FOR SUCCESS

The right way to grow profits By Mark Bradley

an and Bill decided to meet and discuss some ideas to improve their businesses in the coming season. After sitting down, Bill gets straight to the point, “So Dan, what have you come up with?” Dan says that he definitely still has some work cut out for him, especially in regards to improving his company’s net profit. “I was planning on a big advertising blitz,” he Mark Bradley shares, “and trying to sell enough work to get another crew out in the field.” Bill responds, “That’s one way, but is growing your business a true goal of yours, or are you really just looking to improve your profit?” Dan answers, “I’m most concerned with profit, right now.” “Sometimes growing sales is the right way to grow profits,” said Bill. “Increased sales help spread overhead costs, which won’t necessarily increase with more sales, across a greater amount of work, thus making the business more profitable. If you can continue to manage more work just as profitably, then you’re OK.” Bill paused for a second, and then added, “But you can get further, faster by being more efficient. Look at it this way: your cost of goods sold last year was around $750,000. That includes the total costs of your labour, materials, equipment and subcontractors. If you cut just five per cent of those costs by getting more efficient and productive, you could save your company about $37,500 – added right to your bottom line. Do you know how much work you’d have to sell to add that much profit?” Dan was silent as he thought for a minute. “Let me show you,” said Bill. “An average company in this industry might earn about four per cent net profit. Some do less, and some do more, but four per cent is a pretty typical number. It’s not enough, in my opinion, but it is typical. At a four per cent net profit, you’d have to sell $937,000 worth of work to add that same $37,500 in net profit.” “What? I’d have to add almost a million in sales?” shouted Dan. “That can’t be right!” “Sure it is,” said Bill. “Do the math. Four per cent of $937,000 is $37,500. If you continue

to earn a four per cent net profit in your business, you need to add almost a million in sales to get the same result. “Let me share with you some methods that will save five per cent on your costs next year.” Bill pointed out to Dan that there are four main areas upon which he needs to focus. He explained that the first area is labour costs. “To cut labour costs, you need to cut every hour of waste out of your organization. And trust me – every one of us has wasted payroll hours that need to be turned into productive hours,” says Dan. “Your people need to spend more time on productive activities and less on non-billable activities and/or mistakes. That’s very possible with the right systems.” Bill revealed two fundamental techniques to reduce labour costs: information sharing and timekeeping. Information “Every foreman needs to know what the estimator was thinking when the job was priced in order to bring the job in on budget. How many labour hours were bid? What equipment should be used? What materials and how much of each? Putting together a job package takes an hour or two of preparation. Not putting this information in a foreman’s hands will cost you hundreds, maybe thousands, of man-hours over a year in mistakes, miscommunication, and poor planning/preparation. Timekeeping “If your people are writing their hours and rounding-out their written times for payroll, stop because it’s hurting you more than you know. We use an electronic time-keeping system that runs from a smart phone. Non-productive time is minimized, because the foremen must book their payroll hours to something; either a job, or shop time. If they book too much time to a job, they’re going to go over hours and must be accountable for the overages. If they book too much time to downtime, they are also accountable for that. Our payroll costs dropped significantly, once we implemented a system that forced us to look our downtime right in the face; right down to every last hour.” Replace labour with equipment Bill recommended two strategies for Dan: using his equipment to replace his labour costs, and think about replacing older equipment with newer equipment.

12 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010

“Dollar for dollar, equipment is more productive than labour. Think about tasks that your crews do by hand that could be really streamlined with equipment. Which is greater, the monthly payment on a machine, or the costs of doing work by hand?” Bill continued, “If your equipment is in good working order, then you can skip this tip. But equipment that breaks down costs you in repairs, it’s even harder on wages. Your wage costs will increase when the equipment is down, because your crews will do the work by hand until the equipment is back in service. Older equipment often will drive up your wage costs; sometimes so much that it would be cheaper to run brand new equipment.” Minimize waste “Wasted material and inventory equals money that you’ll never get back. Give your crews job packages, so they know exactly what to order, and how much. Minimize inventory at the shop, unless you know you need it,” emphasized Bill. “Paying vendor delivery charges might increase your material costs slightly, but it will save you on labour costs. Instead of paying a $50 delivery charge, you send your guy to go pick up the materials. You’ve spent money on his wages (a cost), but you’ve also lost one hour that could have been spent on billable work. The combination of paying for downtime and losing production time can be deadly,” cautioned Bill. Bill continued, “As a company, you’re all in this together. If the company does well, you can all afford to do better. If the company is limping along, then so will its employees. Teach your employees what mistakes actually cost the company. Give them the responsibility and accountability to eliminate the causes of productivity problems. If they can save just five per cent of their time due to mistakes and waste (and you know they can), the results will be extremely favourable to your bottom line.” Bill summed it up, “You’ll build a better, more efficient business that is far easier, and much more enjoyable to run, if you reduce these costs, rather than trying to add the same profit by increasing sales.” Mark Bradley is president of The Beach Gardener and the Landscape Management Network. To learn more, join LMN this winter at Landscape Ontario for a workshop entitled, ‘Quit Hoping for Profit – Plan for It.’

Landscaper has much to celebrate at opening of homeless shelter’s garden David Gaze had a lot to celebrate on Sept. 24, when the official opening ceremonies took place at The Garden of Hope at Salvation Army Lighthouse Shelter for the Homeless in Oakville. In 2009, David Gaze Landscaping took on a major project to create a garden retreat on a barren plot of land at the Shelter. The Halton Lighthouse Shelter is a homeless shelter serving Oakville, Burlington and Milton. There are 25 beds; 15 for males and 10 for females. In conjunction with The Oakville Milton Real Estate Board, that raised funds to help pay for materials, David Gaze and his company donated his time and provided the labour to construct the garden. “I encouraged my husband to take on this little endeavour. However, we did not know just how much of a challenge it would be,” said David Gaze’s wife Denise. “We learned first-hand how quickly our own circumstances in life can change, when business rapidly

dropped. Suppliers that we hoped could help with the project were also suffering, so it was difficult to give. Without a lot of outside help, at times we felt like throwing in the proverbial towel.” But they didn’t throw in the towel, and with determination an extraordinary garden was created for the shelter. Ceremonies to mark the official opening took place on Sept 24. In those ceremonies, it was noted a number of times that the garden will encourage and

inspire the people who pass through the doors of the shelter, having some tough situations to deal within their lives. Denise Gaze relates how her husband, after in a long work week, used Saturdays and holiday weekends to complete the garden. “Many times he was on his own,” she said. “I am proud of what my husband did, and the heart and soul he put into it, even during difficult times.”

ORCGA plans seminar for Mar. 24 The Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance is preparing an Underground Awareness seminar that will be formally announced in January. It will be presented at Landscape Ontario on March 24, to educate contractors on everything

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MEMBERSHIP

Endorsed supplier program is one benefit of LO By Helen Hassard Membership coordinator

inter is finally here. I hope many of you are taking that well-deserved break, after a busy season. At LO, the atmosphere is quite the opposite, filled with the seminars, chapter meetings, preparations for Congress and much more, as the home office in Milton is booming. Our membership and education team has been working diligently to get membership dues notices out and sending Helen Hassard you your paid packages. If anyone hasn’t received their invoice, or needs a new one sent, please let me know. I’ll see that it gets to you. I’ve found that at this time of year, when everyone is debating the value of their membership, I am asked many times, “What does my membership do for me?” As you should know, there are countless benefits. I know when a member asks that question, they are looking for an explanation that will help their bottom line. I usually put it like this: “If you pay the fee for an “active” membership, then you’ve paid $478, plus HST. If you’re an “associate” member, you paid $581, plus HST. There are other levels of membership, but I will use these two, as they are the most common.

If you use our endorsed supplier program that provides discounts on a number of services, including discounts on fuel purchases to banking charges, equipment purchases/rentals and marketing materials, you make your membership fee back tenfold. I recently heard Joe Salemi, members services manager at the CNLA, describe it as such, “Even if you only use the credit card processing discount, you will pay for your membership.” If you take advantage of our winter seminars, being a member will save you almost $80 per seminar, so if you sign up for a handful of seminars you’ve made it back again (and that’s not counting the Building Your Prosperity

seminar that you receive free with membership, a value of almost $200). Active and associate members may also receive discounts on advertising space in the magazines, discounts on trade show booths at both Expo and Congress, and free Green for Life promotional items. I hope this has explained a a bit about the financial benefits of being a member of LO. If you would like to learn more about any of the benefits listed, just check out our website at www.horttrades.com, or give me a call at 1-800-265-5656, or email hhassard@ landscapeontario.com.

IPM Symposium offered one day only There are many new features at the IPM Symposium in 2011. The list includes a new format and new networking opportunities, supported by a new energy. And, of course, it all takes place in the new year. In the past, the IPM Symposium was held at various times in a number of locales. This year, it’s a one-time and one-place event only, scheduled for Jan. 10 at the Toronto Congress Centre in the Cohen Ballroom. It’s an impressive list of very topical speakers this year. People such as Cam Wilson, chief technical officer of Neudorff North America, the company behind last year’s new pesticide hopeful, Fiesta. Also on the podium are Ministry of Environment offi-

cials, as well as Dr. Michael Brownridge, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, Pam Charbonneau, OMAFRA, Roger Funk, The Davey Tree Expert, and David Shetlar, professor of Urban Landscape Entomology at Ohio State University, who will speak about bees and bugs. For the first time in the history of the IPM Symposium, lunch and a reception are included in the program. Landscape Ontario’s Integrated Pest Management Symposium has been a unique and respected event since 1965. More details and registration can be found at www.locongress.com under Education and Conference.

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Chapter News London Chapter members learn about new trends in hardscapes By Daryl Bycraft CLT London Chapter correspondent

Members of the London Chapter of Landscape Ontario learned something about the latest trends in hardscapes and permeable pavers from John Lavoie, territory manager for Unilock. Also present at the meeting was Paul Day CDE, trade show manager from Landscape Ontario, to inform members about Congress taking place from Jan. 11 to 13. A contest featured prizes of two free passes to Congress. Winners of the passes were Jay McKinnon from Jay McKinnon Company in Strathroy and Bill Hajdu from Decorative Landscape Stone in Otterville. The chapter member profile for the November meeting was Darcy DeCaluwe, owner of Stone in Style. Darcy established Stone in Style in 2005 after working for others in the trade, installing pavers and as a sales territory representative. Since the fall of 2007 the London Chapter has held 50/50 draws, using a deck of cards. Proceeds go to the London Chapter Scholarship at Fanshawe College. The final four cards were drawn at this meeting, with the winning card being the LAST card drawn. What odds! The winner was Brian Partridge, who took home $975. The next 50/50 round will begin again at the Feb. 8 meeting at the Lamplighter Inn. This meeting is an afternoon session, from 14, with a buffet lunch at 12-noon. Registration at $25 per person includes lunch. Two topics will be presented, website development and photography for your business. This will be a great motivational meeting, as members prepare for the next season. The London Chapter Board wishes everyone a safe and happy new year, and we hope to see everyone at Congress.

Chris Kaiser of the The Landscape Effects Group receives an award from Mark Williams and Jay Terryberry.

Windsor Chapter presents Awards of Distinction The Windsor Chapter once again had an opportunity to honour a number of its professional members with its Awards of Distinction presentation. The annual event took place in late October at LaSalle Landscape Supply/Garlatti Landscaping. Approximately 60 members and staff of the respective companies enjoyed a barbecue, followed by the local awards presentations. Organizers say the overall quantity of entries were up from the 2009 season, with some very professional work on display throughout the audio visual presentation. Appreciation went to Dan Garlatti and his staff for being very great hosts. Overall winners Landscape Maintenance – Commercial Gold – The Landscape Effects Group Silver – Topgrade Landscape and Garden Solutions Bronze – Garlatti Landscaping Landscape Maintenance - Residential Gold – The Landscape Effects Group Silver – Topgrade Landscape and Garden Solutions

Landscape Construction – Large Commercial Gold – Garlatti Landscaping Silver – Lakeshore Landscaping Bronze – The Landscape Effects Group Honorable Mention – Bellaire Landscape Landscape Construction – Small Commercial Gold – The Pond Store Landscape Construction – Large Residential Gold – Lakeshore Landscaping Silver – The Landscape Effects Group Bronze – Bellaire Landscape Landscape Construction – Small Residential Gold – Bellaire Landscape. Silver – Bellaire Landscape Bronze – The Landscape Effects Group Honorable Mention – Lakeshore Landscaping Landscape Construction – Water Feature Gold – The Landscape Effects Group Silver – Lakeshore Landscaping Bronze – Bellaire Landscape

HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010 15

Annual Report 2010 President’s message

It’s time to achieve renewal First, let me begin by thanking the members of LO for the privilege and honour to serve as your president for this past year. My theme has been prosperity through engagement. The message that I would like to continue to emphasize to our members Tom Intven and prospective members, is that the more they become engaged in what our community has to offer, the more successful they will become and the stronger our association will be, especially in these rapidly-changing times. The theme implies that the best way to face the challenges of the new economy is to fully embrace Landscape Ontario, its culture, its programs, its network of members and staff and their touch points and its sense of community. Now more than ever, the value of membership in LO will be made evident to those who, not just participate, but become fully engaged. It has been a treat to observe that real engagement has occurred at the board level – our meetings are exciting and lively. Introduction of board and LO staff members at the beginning of each meeting, hopefully has helped to solidify the bond we share in our efforts to advance our industry. I am continually amazed at the incredible spirit of volunteerism that our members demonstrate at every level. On visits to chapters, sector groups and LO functions, I have observed that the spirit of volunteerism is vibrant and creates a culture of vitality. You may recall that in one of my President’s Messages, I referred to the altruistic attitude among our members as the Landscape Ontario Gene. So many of our members give so much believing that their efforts are advancing our industry, and that in doing so we are stronger together than alone. The spirit of volunteerism, this expression of the LO Gene, is truly what makes Landscape Ontario such a successful organization. LO, like all businesses, needs to renew and improve itself on a continuous basis, in order to remain relevant, fresh and top of the mind. You should be doing this in your own business – re-creating yourself every three to five years and continuously improving. The world is changing so quickly, we need to change with it and hopefully, stay ahead of the curve if possible.

As an organization, how do we achieve renewal? In mid-November, our board, along with Chapter presidents and representatives and sector group members took part in a facilitated strategic planning session. Our goal is to achieve renewal; to revisit and refresh areas of focus and goals in these areas for the next few years. It is a large multi-dimensional task that will take considerable work to define it clearly, as well as to implement. We have started on that path of renewal with the objective of developing a plan, communicating the plan to all, assigning the resources to it, and executing the plan. We will ensure that we effectively communicate all of our decisions to all members and staff. Further, we will continue to seek input from each of our members. Please feel free to

express your opinions to me, our executive director, or any of our many governing members, as to where our association should be headed. As we move forward, our priorities may change, but our vision will not. We all share the same passion for this industry expressed in our mission: “To be the leader representing, promoting and fostering a favourable climate for the advancement of the horticultural industry in Ontario.” Our endpoint remains a prosperous, professional, ethical recognized and trusted industry. Let us all continue to work toward the achievement of our vision. Respectfully submitted, Tom Intven President 2010 – 2011

Treasurer’s Report

Association in fortunate financial position This was my first year in the Treasurer’s position, and the learning curve was steep. The association is in a fortunate financial position. It has no debt, sits on 49 acres of valuable land, benefits from healthy and secure investments and Jacki Hart enjoys a stable income from trade shows, magazines and dues. Once again the association has shown retained earnings of approximately $140,000. This will be distributed as follows: Promotion Fund — $10,000 Technology Fund — $ 10,000 Industry Development Fund — $120,000 Your association has never been in a deficit position. However, the surplus this year and the previous year were based on the sale of land to Union Gas. Without this surprise income, we would have been in a small deficit position. As the economy has slid into a downturn, your association invested in providing additional services to the members in the form of a full-time web master and public relations director. In addition, we ramped up sales resources and allocated more staff to service

members locally. This has meant an increase in overhead expenses, while at the same time membership growth is even with last year and magazine revenue is trending downwards. The trade shows continue to show moderate growth. (All the details are in the Audited Financial Statements) In my role as Treasurer, I have worked with staff to identify process improvements. Together we have analyzed all systems and reporting structures and implemented several new systems to improve flow of information. We are entering a time when much more budget scrutiny is required. The healthy and continuous growth of the past 20 years is yesterday’s landscape. We are very conscious of the reality that the great strong economic days are fading, and we are responding prudently and cautiously, while maximizing value to members. Current reality is that we need to change our approach to resource management, and we are proactively doing this. We have carefully reviewed all expenses and have worked hard to find efficiencies, reducing the operating budget significantly in some areas. We are budgeting conservatively for a small surplus next year. We are ready to act quickly to unforeseen financial surprises. This year we purchased a half-acre property and home adjoining the home office site. This acquisition will give us our own direct access to Steeles

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010 Ave., and allow for future installation of sewer and municipal water and will greatly enhance the value of our property, and maximize future options for use and potential revenue/severance. We are fortunate to belong to one of the healthi-

est, vibrant, active and engaged associations in North America. I can assure you, after attending the Great Lakes Conference this past fall, Landscape Ontario is performing exceptionally well in this tougher economic landscape, especially with respect to our peer

associations south of the border. Respectfully submitted, Jacki Hart CLP Treasurer 2010

Executive Director’s Report

LO continues to be a vibrant and active association At the suggestion of President Tom Intven, I have changed the format of my report to make it easier to see what the association is doing to advance the industry. Landscape Ontario has enjoyed another great year. As the economy began Tony DiGiovanni to slow down and members adjusted to new realities, the association ramped up services. In slow economies, associations are called upon to deliver more value. We created a full-time director of public relations and full time web-editor. This was done in conjunction with the Green for Life program, aimed towards stimulating demand for our members’ products and services. We focused on promoting the industry and the membership. At the same time, we continued to develop opportunities for members to enhance their business and technical skills through the Prosperity Partners program. As you read through the annual report, it is very easy to see why Landscape Ontario is one of the most vibrant and active associations in the world. The commitment contribution and engagement of the membership is outstanding. President’s Priority Theme — Focus on business development activities that will assist members to prosper. Achieved success in 2010: • The introductory seminar for the Prosperity Partners program is now mandatory for all new members. • Aligned all our programming and touch points with the PP program, especially the Professional Development Guide. • Revamped the course offerings and provided training for instructors. • Achieved great strides in the apprenticeship program and various certifications. • Expanded collaboration with endorsed suppliers, adding LMN Network, Clarity for the Boss and Jeffery Scott to the endorsed supplier list.

Presidents Priority Theme — Professional Development Achieved success in 2010: • We met attendance goals and increased the number of touch points with our membership • Developed the Smart about Salt Council with Region of Waterloo, BOMA and Ontario Good Roads. • Hosted a snow symposium with the Ontario Municipal Equipment Operators Association. President’s Priority Theme — Long-term Human Resource Development Achieved success in 2010: • Many successes and programs under the management of Sally Harvey (Please see her report on page 35). • Saved Algonquin College Horticulture Program, thanks to Ottawa chapter members and Sally Harvey. • Continued to distribute over $25,000 in scholarships. • Certification is getting more popular. • Instituted a review of the certification programs to increase uptake. • Continued to work on Red Seal apprenticeship and promotion of apprenticeship. • Upper Canada Chapter initiative promoted a new apprenticeship program. • Aligned HR goals with CNLA for greater synergy and effectiveness for aligned education programming across Canada. • Successful promotion of the Green for Life brand at Canada Blooms. The LO garden was a masterpiece. • Increased traffic to landscapeontario.com by over 10 per cent. • Spread Green for Life program to most provinces and one U.S. State. President’s Priority Theme — Environmental Stewardship Achieved success in 2010: • Increased the use of the Environmental Scorecard to over 348 users. • Partnered with the City of Toronto to develop a Low Impact Landscape Accreditation Program, funded by the municipality.

• Enhanced our partnership with Vineland. Continued our Highway Greening Program. • Expanded the Green Forum at Congress. President’s Priority Theme — Public Relations Achieved success in 2010: • Continue to achieve considerable attention in the media with Canada Blooms, Awards of Excellence, and Communities in Bloom being the main catalyst of media attention. • Web hits have expanded considerably. • Donated $45,000 (Toronto Chapter) towards the building of a Children’s Garden at Toronto Botanical Garden. • Continue to nurture and provide support to likeminded organizations. • Encouraged the chapters to continue community projects (school yard greening in Waterloo, Gilda’s House in Georgian Lakelands, Hospice in Windsor, Hospital for Sick Kids and TBG in Toronto, Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa, London awards program, Windsor in Bloom, etc.). • Participated in a revitalized Canada Blooms. Presidents Priority Theme — Local Revelance Achieved success in 2010: • Continued efforts to improve chapter engagement. • Continued implementation of the Member Recruitment Plan. We have levelled off in membership numbers, despite the campaign. More work is required next year. • Completed new strategic plan for the board. • Continue investigation of the “Accredited Member” concept. • Participated in funding alternative research in lawn care at Vineland and University of Guelph. • Developed employee training program design sector. • Staged an excellent Garden Centre Symposium. • Awards of Excellence Program was expanded. • Held very successful plastic recycling week event. • Completed the garden centre employee manual. • Supported a great deal of nursery research at Continued on next page

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

of Green-space document. Vineland and University of Guelph. • Funded research to develop pesticide • Ran very successful growers’ tour, auction and alternatives. business symposium. • Advocacy and information exchange regarding • Trial Garden was expanded again. The garden’s pesticide ban to the Ministry. open house continues to attract a larger • Low Impact Landscape Accreditation Program audience each year. development. • Developed strategic plan for Grounds • Met the Minister of Natural Resources to Maintenance Sector Group. participate in the Native Tree Atlas Project. LO • Very successful at convincing Electrical Safety site will host a living Native Tree Atlas. Authority to adopt most of landscape lighting • Continued participation in the Invasive Plant standards. Council. • Lighting certification program near completion. • Ongoing advocacy on plant protection and • Organized a very successful lighting symposium regulatory issues. at LO home office. • Continued awareness of horticulture as an • A very successful interiorscape breakfast event agricultural commodity. was held at Garden Expo. • Ongoing advocacy for the National Botanical • Continued work to promote benefits of plants at Garden. the workplace with a public relations strategy • Successful having landscaping recognized as a towards building owners, architects and property managers. • Worked on training manual for CLD certification and promotion of the program. • Very successful Designers’ Symposium and Designers’ Breakfast were held in 2009. • Held very successful snow symposium. • Continued support of the Smart about Salt program. • Worked with CNLA on the Risk Management The new signage at LO home office. Council, aimed at suitable land-use activity on farmland of more reducing liability from slip and fall claims. than 10 acres within Halton Region. • Completed the new snow and ice standard form • Continued to promote municipal zoning policies contract. favourable to our industry. • Promoted the charge-out rate card for the Snow • Participated in the new College of Trades. and Ice Sector Group. • Continued to promote apprenticeship programs. • Continued government relations work with water • Successful at receiving a grant to support purveyors. feasibility study for an international horticultural • Developed a website for the Irrigation Sector event at Ontario Place. Group. • Participated in acquiring a grant for Canada • Expanded the Irrigation Symposium. Blooms. • Developed Integrated Certification and Training • Received a grant to host the second Gardens program with Irrigation Association. and Tourism Conference. • Used Canada Blooms as an industry awareness • Continued promotion of the Via Rail Garden venue. Acted as a guide to the Minister of Route. Agriculture. • Continued partnership with Safety Groups and • Invited mayors and councillors to Mayors’ Safety Training. Breakfast at Congress. • Developed a consortium to purchase a 4.5 acre • Participated in Government Relations Strategy property adjoining Vineland for a future satellite with CNLA utilizing the Deloitte Economic office. The purchase of the land demonstrated Impact Study and George Morris Centre Benefits

support for the Vineland concept. • Continued advocacy and government relations regarding exemption, based on labour-intensive nature of our work, on HST charges. • Home office sign was replaced. There is now a very powerful image facing hundreds of thousands of cars per day along Highway 401. • We purchased adjoining property in order to access Steeles Avenue. This purchase greatly increases the value of LO’s property. • Pond sale activity stalled because of the economy. • Union Gas purchased a half-acre and built a transfer station on LO home office property. • Expansion of the shows through partnerships. Flowers Canada, Ontario Parks and The Canadian Fence Institute are partners. • We continue to welcome a partnership with the Greenhouse Conference. • Hired staff for Green Trade Expo (Ottawa). • Will host a new snow symposium in Ottawa, in 2011. • The trade shows continue great success, in spite of the downturn in the U.S. economy. Attendance up 22 per cent at Congress. • Devoted more sales support to trade shows. • Continued the Face to Face theme, as well as the Green Forum. • Exhibitor sales are increasing. • Revenue from trade shows is up 14 per cent. • Booth sales at Expo 2009 increased. • Hosted education and other events on Expo show floor. • Continued very successful weekly e-news. • LO’s communication content continues to be the best in Canada. • Encourage SWOT analysis to determine impacts of Internet on magazines. • Expand circulation of Garden Inspiration magazine through membership. Distributed free to all Canada Blooms visitors. • Integrated members’ websites within landscapeontario.com. • Continued with the addition of first class content to both sites. • Developed a content manager to simplify publishing pages to the website. • We were successful at contributing to the rebirth of Canada Blooms, which became profitable. A visit from Martha Stewart helped to increase

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Table 1 Member Type Active

Increasing membership 2005/6

2006/7

2007/8

2008/9

2009/10

1,426

1,491

1,509

1,503

Associate

338

348

352

337

340

Interim

1,779

1,854 +75

1,895 +41

1,877 -18

1,871 -6

4.2%

2.2%

(-.94%)

(-.31%)

Total-Voting Difference Increase/ Decrease Horticultural

409

423

322

278

254

Chap. Assoc.

Total All Categories

2,238

2,329 +91

2,270 -59

2,208 -62

2,187 -21

4.0%

(-2.5%)

(-2.73%)

(-.95%)

$864,462 +85,016

$912,536 +48,074

$929,552 +17,016

$922,022 -7,530

10%

5.56%

1.86%

(.81%)

Increase/ Decrease Member Revenue

$779, 446

Increase/ Decrease

attendance numbers. • The Landscape Ontario garden at Canada Blooms was a show highlight, and source of great pride for the association. • The Awards of Excellence program continues to expand. • Website coverage of award winners has improved. • Explore the idea of garden TV channel on cable. We met with City TV to explore television activity.

Great Lakes Conference The following notes were prepared for the Great Lakes Conference. It describes our perspective to various issues:

Effects of the economy on membership The economic downturn has slightly affected our membership numbers and membership dues. Last year, we were down .31 per cent members and .81 per cent in dues revenue. The previous year we were down .94 per cent in members and 1.86 per cent increase in revenue. This is after a steady increase of five to 10 per cent in numbers and revenue from 1992.

Ideas for stimulating membership in a tough economy Our response to the recession has been to increase services to the members in two broad areas. 1. We developed a business improvement program, entitled Prosperity Partners. It is mandatory for new members. The program seeks to reinforce the concept that all

businesses require competencies in five areas (Sales, Operations, Customer Relationships, Finance and Leadership). All of our touch-points as an association are being used to promote business competency. We have also focused our education programs on business programs designed to help members adjust to the new reality. 2. We redoubled our efforts at stimulating demand to use our Green for Life branding program. The strategy is to use the collective member touch-points of millions of impressions to communicate a Green for Life benefit message to the public. The message focuses on branding both our members and our industry. The brand promise from an internal member perspective is: We are a professional “green force for beauty” enhancing quality of life. The brand promise from a public perspective is, “Our activities and products provide economic, environmental, legacy, therapeutic, recreational, health and spiritual value.”

Other activities related to the Green for Life branding • Building a spectacular Canada Blooms Garden. Over 44 companies and 300 volunteers participated. • Chapters participated in building over $500,000 of community projects. Each project leaves an engraved Green for Life rock behind. • Magazine articles and television and radio programs. • Home show participation. • Public education events.

A committee was formed to focus energy on a membership campaign and develop a comprehensive plan. It will spend the next year executing that plan. We are working from a prospect list of 5,000 companies (See Table1).

Green Infrastructure We believe that the future growth of the industry is based on expanding the perception of horticulture from an occupation that is in the business of creating beauty, to an occupation that also provides economic, environmental, social and health benefits. The Green Infrastructure movement is a main conduit for this perception change. We have formed an alliance, under the name Green Infrastructure Ontario (GIO). It includes Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, Evergreen Foundation (EF), Ontario Parks Association (OPA), Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), LO and Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests (LEAF). The purpose of GIO is to advocate for the importance of green infrastructure at all levels of government. In 2010, GIO was successful at receiving a Trillium Grant for $250,000 to pay for educational and research activities designed to promote the societal benefits of green infrastructure. The initiative may lead to a Green Infrastructure Act. We are also involved with many conservation authorities in an aligned effort to promote the benefits of Green Infrastructure to other sectors, including Canadian Standards Association, municipalities, engineers, educators, water regulators, Ministry of Transportation, developers and the Building Owners and Managers Association. The green movement is opening doors for this collaborative activity. Another important initiative is to fund a calculator that will compute economic, environmental and social benefit of various green infrastructures.

Table 2 Activity

Trade Show

46.0

Magazines

18.0

Dues

19.0

Education

5.4

Miscellaneous

3.0

Rent

2.4

Management Fees

2.4

Investments

1.9

Awards

0.8

Endorsements

0.8

Merchandise

0.3

TOTAL

100

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Conclusion

Education remains a priority for LO.

Association Revenues (Return on Investment) In the simplest terms, your membership dues are invested in the association to provide benefit and to advance an industry. It is not well-known that we leverage your investment. We are able to fund over $9-million of industry advancement activity through a membership dues investment of $1-million. The table on page 19 breaks out our revenue in a percentage order

Other items of interest • We were able to leverage a $30,000 research investment into a $1-million highway greening demonstration project. • The local gas company made an error by purchasing a half-acre of land from us last year. They were not allowed to build a transfer station at the original location. They gave back the land and paid 50 per cent more for another parcel. This resulted in $220,000 extra revenue, at a time when we needed it to pay for extra overhead.

The year 2010 marks my 21st year with the association. Even after all of these years, I am inspired daily by the contributions of many fully engaged members, whose passion, dedication and commitment is boundless. Their collective energy grows a prosperous, professional, ethical, recognized and valued green industry. I am also in awe of our staff team. It feels like a family. Landscape Ontario is fortunate to have accumulated such a great group of effective implementers of your vision. I am proud to be working alongside such a great group: Gilles Bouchard, Rachel Cerelli, Paul Day, Allan Dennis, Robert Ellidge, Denis Flanagan CLD, Wendy Harry CLT, Sally Harvey CLP, CLT, Helen Hassard, Lorraine Ivanoff, Lee Ann Knudsen CLP, Jane Leworthy, Angela Lindsay, Kristen McIntyre CHT, Kathy McLean, Steve Moyer, Linda Nodello, Francesco Pacelli (Francesco has since moved on, but we appreciate his contributions), Kathleen Pugliese, Joe Sabatino, Ian Service, Tom Somerville, Melissa Steep, Martha Walsh, Mike Wasilewski, Heather Williams (Heather has since moved on. She made great contributions in her short stay with us), and Sarah Willis. I also want to thank the OPA’s Paul Ronan, Trisha Price and Lucy Marshall for partnering with us to promote the benefits of living green

Chapter reports The regional needs of the members are served through a network of nine chapters. Through monthly meetings and promotional activities, the chapters represent an ideal way for member companies to keep abreast of local industry concerns. The two most sought after membership benefits — education and networking opportunities — are provided through the association’s regional chapter structure.

Durham President: Greg Scarlett CLT Past president: Brian Marsh Provincial board representative: Mark Humphries Vice president: Ed Hewis Secretary/treasurer: Carol Fulford Directors: John Fulford, Brian Baun, Jeff Koopmans, Harry Van Staveren, Ian Andrews, Norm Mills, Phil Bull The Durham Chapter held meetings on the first Tuesday night of each month at the Holiday

Inn in Oshawa. September 2009: After last year’s successful Barbecue/Supplier Day, we held our second annual event at Sheridan’s Nurseries in Whitby. It was a great success, with a total of 75 members attending this meeting. Thirteen vendors showcased products, which was followed with everyone enjoying a supper of roast beef-on-a-bun, corn-on-the-cob and salad. October 2009: Gerald Boot gave a presentation on Prosperity Partners. Michael Lewis presented, Ten Ways Great Leaders Inspire Greatness in Others, which was well received by all in attendance. This meeting was attended by 19 members. November 2009: Brian Marsh was presented with a plaque from the executive thanking him for his years as president. Mark Bradley presented his webbased program, Landscape Management Network. We had 27 members in attendance. February 2010: Tim Cradduck, from Turf Revolution, gave his views regarding dealing with the pesticide ban. David Sim from Smart Watering Systems presented techniques and products to maximize water efficiencies through irrigation. We

had 31 members in attendance. March 2010: A representative from the Ministry of Transportation spoke to 66 members. This meeting is always well attended. Ontario Truck Training also gave a presentation of its services. April 2010: Durham Chapter members installed an irrigation project in the west lawns, gardens and the formal rose garden of Parkwood Estates in Oshawa. We believe it will be a big asset to Parkwood and the grounds crew as they continue to maintain this historical site. I would like to thank Brian Marsh for leading us for the last five years, as I graciously accept my new position. It has been an enjoyable time here, as I finish my first official year as the new president of the Durham Chapter. I look forward to contribute in anyway I can to this industry. It takes dedicated members to make a board of directors run successfully. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the board members for their continuous support, as well as the members who joined the executive this year. I would like to thank all of the companies that donated their time and door prizes for our meetings.

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010 The Durham Chapter thanks Fred Young from the Farm Safety Association. His knowledge on health and safety issues is a great resource for our chapter. Thank you to Carol Fulford for keeping Durham organized. We will continue to focus on community-based projects to get our local brand out to the public and green the communities in which we live, play, and work! Respectfully submitted, Greg Scarlett CLT President, 2009-2010

Georgian Lakelands President: Michael LaPorte CLT Vice president: Jeff Lee Secretary: Lexi Dearborn Treasurer: Sheila Allin Past presidents: Bob Adams, Nick Solty, Earle Graham, Mark Goodman Provincial representative: Mark Goodman Directors: Warren Patterson, David Emms, Terry Kowalski Chapter members travelled to Thornbury in September 2009. Garden Holistics hosted our meeting, and barbecue. The evening provided great networking opportunities, giving the board of directors some new ideas to review in October. The speaker for the evening was Pat Morrison, a local accountant, who offered information about great accounting practices. Just over 30 members welcomed Tony DiGiovanni and Jacki Hart to Georgian Downs in Innisfil for the October chapter meeting. Tony presented information regarding branding Landscape Ontario, as well as association projects and initiatives. Jacki provided information to members on the Prosperity Partnership seminar scheduled in November. It was wonderful to have Tony and Jacki bring up-to-date information from home office. This evening gave great insight into how much our association is truly involved and the number of different projects they are managing on our behalf. Our chapter created a Facebook page to assist in getting the word out to Georgian Lakelands members. We are able to promote chapter meetings, socials, and chapter news through Facebook, as well as post event pictures. This has been a wonderful and inexpensive way to promote Landscape Ontario and our chapter. November was a busy month. Our portion of the Gilda’s Club of Simcoe-Muskoka project went into full swing. Nick Solty (project manager), Jeff Lee and Ross Allin, along with many other Chapter members, worked together to install this wonderful landscape

project. Many materials for the project were donated by local suppliers, while Chapter volunteers installed retaining walls, interlock stone and planted trees. November’s chapter meeting was held in Duntroon. A round-table discussion was held and members were invited to discuss some of the key issues facing the Chapter. Some very interesting comments were presented at the meeting. The Gilda’s Club landscape project continued into December. The annual Christmas party was held in early December at Georgian Downs. For the first time, the Georgian Lakelands Board of Directors wanted to recognize our chapter members for their contributions with an award presentation. Volunteer of the Year went to Lynne Barnes for her hours of work to help our Chapter grow and expand into the west-end. Tim Morrison of Unilock Limited, Barrie, accepted the Supplier of the Year Award for support of our Chapter, allowing us the opportunity to provide local communities and organizations with products and services they might not otherwise have been able to afford. Nick Solty was recognized for his outstanding contribution and support of the Chapter for the Gilda’s Club Simcoe-Muskoka Project. The success of this project was due to the many management hours, Nick generosity donated to this project. Congratulations to all our award winners. February brought snow and lots of it, which made for a perfect day of skiing and boarding at the Alpine Ski Club in Collingwood. It was a great day, with sunshine and fresh snow. Nick Solty organized an amazing day with over 30 participates. We welcomed Toronto members on this day. For a second straight year, Rob Vogel was the winner of the Fun Ski Race. As the day came to a close, Peter Guinane provided information to the chapters regarding the Contractors’ Sector Group and its initiatives for the coming year, as well as the group’s role in Canada Blooms. Thank you to everyone who attended the Annual Snow Day. See you in 2011. Our Chapter purchased an events trailer to advertise and promote LO, our Chapter, industry suppliers and service providers. The trailer was on-site

for each Chapter event. The Easter Food Drive was the first event the events trailer attended. The Food Drive, held at Botanix, Barrie’s Garden Centre, was a huge success for our Chapter and the Elizabeth Fry GAP (Grocery Assistance Program). Each year this event grows in size, with much-needed food supplies collected and cash donations for GAP. We are able to increase awareness for both organizations through lots of local media coverage. Thanks again this year to Lexi Dearborn and Sheila Allin for all their hard work and Warren Patterson for providing a host location. As always, MTO headlined March. It is our largest draw of members and non-members to a Chapter meeting. Hank Dubee of MTO outlined the dos and don’ts of the road, as well as provided some very over-the-top photos to show the reasons behind the laws. Chapter elections were held, with some new faces stepping forward to become directors. Our new event trailer sponsorship package was released during this meeting, as well as the unveiling of the trailer. The events trailer was at Expo and will also be at Congress, featuring the Green for Life icon, surrounded by sponsor logos. Thanks go out to those sponsors. With their help, we are able to hold educational, social, and community events throughout the year. Like the weather, Gilda’s Club Simcoe-Muskoka landscape project heated up in the spring. With much help, and a day of planting and sod laying from the students at Banting High School in Alliston, we were able to meet our completion date of April 23. By the time it was completed, we installed a landscape project valued at over $75,000, providing many people great enjoyment over the years. This was a huge project for our chapter. I thank all those involved, who stuck through the tough weather and inconsistent timelines to complete this wonderful community project. We took time to hit the golf course in August. Innisbrook Golf and Country Club hosted our annual tournament and did a wonderful job accommodating our needs and golfers.

Gilda’s House was a major project in Georgian Lakelands

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

This year our Chapter took a huge step forward by hiring a Chapter Coordinator. Heather Williams joined us in the spring and assisted with many tasks by giving attention where needed. Her presence was much appreciated. I would like to thank Heather for her understanding, organization, and her great positive attitude. The Georgian Lakeland’s Chapter had a busy and successful year because of all the hard work and support of the Board of Directors, our volunteers, and Chapter sponsors. Thank you to all for another wonderful season. Respectfully submitted, Michael LaPorte CLT President, 2009-2010

18 at Willow Valley. The tournament was very well attended and everyone enjoyed a great day. Thank you to all of our sponsors and donors for the support and help that made the event so successful. I would like to thank all board members for their efforts and support over this past year and throughout the past three years that I have served as president. I look forward to my new role and continuing to work with the chapter. In addition, I wish all the best to Fiore Zenone as he begins what I am confident will be a successful term as president. Best of luck to everyone for a happy, healthy and prosperous year. Respectfully submitted Tim Cruickshanks President 2009-2010

Golden Horseshoe

London

President: Tim Cruickshanks Provincial board representative: Walter Hasselman Treasurer: Bruce Wilson Secretary: Michele Malton CHTM Directors: John Bos CLT, Patrick Evangelisto, John Harsevoort, Erik Kuijvenhoven, Brad Malton, Jeff Smith, Deanna Van Varik, Fiore Zenone

President: Grant Harrison Past President: Tim Cradduck Treasurer/provincial board representative: Peter Vanderley CLP Directors: Daryl Bycraft CLT, Derek Geddes, Jerry Hakkers, Nicola Kamp, Jay Murray CLP, Michelle Peeters, John Perriman, Stephen Sutcliffe, Jarrett Woodard, Jason Zehr

In September, 2009, Hamilton Bobcat was the host of the always-popular Chicken Roast. There was an excellent turnout, including a large number of kids. Everyone in attendance was treated to a memorable evening, making it an extremely successful event again this year. After not hosting a meeting in October, the November general meeting was held at the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture. Highlighting the meeting was a presentation by Hank Gelderman CLT. Our annual wine and cheese social took place in December at Galileo’s. The event was well attended and everyone enjoyed all of the food and refreshments. No meetings were held in January and February. March made up for it, with two meetings this month. The first meeting was held at Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, where members discussed the new provincial HST tax system. In addition, we heard from Farm Safety about upcoming changes. There was also a presentation from Easy-Flo Compost. The second meeting of the month was with MTO representatives at Legends Landscape Supply. As usual, meetings involving MTO are well attended. We were all able to gather fresh information on current and ever-changing ministry rules and regulations. No meetings were held from April to July, 2010. Our annual golf tournament was held on Aug.

One would think that the London Chapter members have a great deal of time to spare, when you consider all that has been accomplished this year. Here’s a brief overview of the activities that London Chapter members have been involved in over the past year: Landscape Ontario London Chapter was represented in two home shows this year, the London Home Builders’ Show and the London Spring Home and Garden Show. The booths were built and materials donated by volunteers. These shows gave Landscape Ontario great exposure and we saw lots of activity at the booth. A special thank you to those who helped man the booth during the shows. The Gardens of Distinction Tour was our second annual tour. There were 14 gardens featured on the tour this year and we sold 400 tickets. This is a great opportunity for our members to show off their work. There were many different landscape elements on display at the London area gardens. This is definitely an event that the Chapter hopes will continue to grow in popularity. This year the International Plowing Match was held in St. Thomas. Horticulture students from Fanshawe College built the entry to this major event. The project was financed by LO’s London Chapter. The Annual Golf Tournament was once again held at Pine Knot Golf and Country Club. A total of 152 golfers took part. We are thankful to our members who donated prizes and put in many hours to make

the tournament a success. Tree planting was a new project for our chapter this year. We partnered with the Boy Scouts of London to plant trees along Veteran’s Memorial Parkway in London. We are looking forward to partnering with them again on future projects. During the 2009 Gardens of Distinction tour, we held a draw for a free landscape lighting package. The planning and installation were done in a seminar format at the winner’s home. This was a great way to get some theoretical and practical training at the same time. Banting House open house was held in October. We are so pleased with the final result of this project, as are the staff members who commissioned the project. Landscape Ontario was very well represented. We are in the process of reviewing other areas of service within the community. One of the projects we are working on is a renewal of the gardens at the London Children’s Museum. We are always looking for ways to serve and beautify our city in a tangible way. Requests are regularly received throughout the year, and the Chapter seeks to make wise decisions regarding which ones to take on. My sincere thanks to members of the London Chapter, who were willing to give of their time and talents. It is a privilege to work with you. Before I sign off, let me take a moment to also say thank you to our past president, Tim Cradduck. Tim was a visionary when it came to getting us involved and giving back to our community. Thanks, Tim, for your efforts on our behalf. You led and represented us well. Respectfully submitted, Grant Harrison CLT President 2010

Ottawa President: Sarah Johnston Past president: Tim Dyer Treasurer: Hank Mollema Provincial board representative: Bruce Morton CLP, CIT Directors: Chris Burns CIT, Stacy Elliott, Sonja Hirsig, Patricia Stanish CLD, Dave Stewart CHT Even though the majority of activities for Ottawa Chapter members take place during the winter months, there are those members of the board who volunteer precious time during the summer months to organize Chapter activities. Our thanks are extended to them. Please take time to review the list of directors. Each and every one believes in a healthy, productive and professional industry and donates their time to

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

provide opportunities for you to learn, profit from networking and grow your business.

Education Last winter saw a full slate of seminars ranging in subject from Estimating for Profit to Managing Work Crews more Profitably. WHMIS, First Aid and SCIP programs ensured you had the opportunity to fulfill annual requirements. The IPM Symposium in February was well attended, as usual, and provided much needed information on new products for plant and pest management now that the pesticide ban is in place.

Accreditation A total of 26 candidates participated in the CHT testing at Kemptville College last September (now Landscape Industry Certified). Once achieved, this designation gives successful candidates an accreditation that verifies their skills to prospective employers. Basic skills tested vary from pruning to laying interlock to operating chainsaws. Eight local apprentices are entering the second year of the horticultural technician program at the Kemptville Campus of the University of Guelph. This two-year co-op diploma offers in-class and workplace training and provides significant monetary reimbursement to graduates and their employers.

Promotion In January, LO president Tom Intven and executive director Tony DiGiovanni attended the Chapter meeting to update members on issues facing the industry, and then visited Algonquin College to talk to the students and staff. Later in the year an attempt to close the Algonquin Horticulture program was successfully diverted, following consultations with industry and Landscape Ontario. More than 1,000 landscapers attended the Green Trade Expo in February to see 100 exhibitors showcasing their products and services. Speakers gave presentations throughout the day, and for the first time, members were invited to an MTO Snow Contractors’ breakfast. This was very well received. Speakers included Mark Bradley on Business Management Solutions, Sheila James on Work-Life Balance and Bill Bitz, presenting Pruning for Landscapers. The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association held its AGM at the same time as Green Trade and delegates from across the country attended the Expo, as well as joining local members at the keynote lunch event, where Jim Paluch spoke about building a sustainable business. In April, Mark Burleton, NCC manager of the official residences’ grounds and greenhouses, hosted a very enjoyable tour of the Governor General’s gardens. In August, the annual golf tournament was held

Golf tournaments continue as major events for chapters.

at the Canadian Golf and Country Club in Ashton. Members enjoyed wonderful weather, food and golf, with many returning home with a small gift donated by much appreciated sponsors. Sponsors are a crucial component of many local activities and we encourage you to frequent their businesses and thank them for the support given to your local Chapter activities.

Volunteer activities Ottawa members are prolific in their generosity to support local activities. Ten local companies continue to volunteer crews to maintain the Cancer Survivors Park, at the corner of Riverside Drive and Industrial Avenue, and Ronald McDonald House is the beneficiary of volunteer work by another local company. As well, many members show up each year to do the fall clean-up at the annual Day of Tribute at the National Military Cemetery. Regrettably, we lost the services of Lynn Lane in November of 2009. Lynn is pursuing new opportunities, as well as enjoying more family time. In April, we were fortunate to welcome Martha Walsh as the new Chapter coordinator. Martha has quickly picked up the procedures and is ably answering your enquiries and helping your board with administration and logistics. Respectfully submitted Sarah Johnston President 2010

Toronto President: Fiona Penn Zieba First vice president: Arvils Lukss Second vice president: Lindsay Drake Nightingale Past president: George Urvari Secretary/treasurer: Sabrina Goettler CLP Provincial board rep: Ryan Heath CLP, CLT Directors: Christine Moffit, Janet Mott CLP, Janet Ennamorato, Allan Kling CLP, David Nemeth, Mike O’Connor The 2009-2010 season was a very successful one for the Toronto Chapter. We have outlined the accomplishments of this terrific season. We continue to align our chapter events with the Pillars of Prosperity: Sales Success, Financial Health, Operational Excellence, Customers for Life, Leadership and Technical Education. We also continually encourage members to attend chapter events as a way to connect and network as well as to learn and discuss issues important to the industry and members. October 2009: The year kicked off with a presentation on “Sustainability in the Landscape Industry – An overview of the Challenges and Opportunities Posed by the Green Movement.” This included presentations and opportunities for discussion with Tim Cradduck of Turf Revolution, Chris Le Conte of Smart Watering Systems, and Allan Kling of Urban Garden. November 2009: We were pleased to have respected industry business owners speak at the evening Leadership Forum. The keynote address by Eric Trogdon of Steps Canada on managing conflict was humorous and entertaining. This address was followed by Gerald Boot of Boot’s Landscaping and

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Jeff Olsen of Brookdale Treeland Nurseries. It was a very candid discussion on business issues in relation to leadership. It was a well received evening by the many in attendance. February 2010: A successful full-day seminar on ‘The Elements of a Successful Maintenance Business’ involved presentations from the Farm Safety Association, Sales Success with Nathan Helder of Gelderman Landscaping, Greening Your Landscape with Scott Bryk from Sunshine Environmental, Financial Success by Mark Bradley of The Beach Gardener and Landscape Management Network, and new legislation on chains and straps from MTO officers. There were over 70 participants at this year’s workshop. We look forward to more informative meetings such as this one next year. March 2010: In anticipation of the July 1 deadline, the chapter organized a presentation on the HST transition and information for businesses. Elections for the 2010-2011 season were also held at this meeting. In mid-March, the Contractors’ Lecture Series was held during Canada Blooms. The number of Toronto Chapter members volunteering at this year’s Canada Blooms was staggering. The beauty of the whole experience showed the commitment of the entire industry to provide the wider community (local, provincial, and national) with an outstanding garden festival. Exceptional experience! July 2010: Another successful golf tournament was held at Glen Eagle Golf Course. The event raised approximately $11,000, with proceeds split between Haitian Relief and the Sick Kids Foundation. It is always an enjoyable day of golf, along with lunch, prizes and good fun! August 2010: Again this year, the annual baseball tournament was held at Richmond Green in Richmond Hill. The tournament trophy was won by Arbordale Landscaping/Moonstruck Landscape Lighting. A terrific barbecue lunch was enjoyed by everyone and the rain held off long enough for all of the games to take place. It was a great day. A very successful Past Presidents’ Barbecue was held in mid-August. It was a great opportunity to reconnect with successful business leaders who have helped shape the Toronto Chapter, as well as the industry. We were fortunate to have past presidents from 1989, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2000, 2004, and 2006. We are looking forward to seeing everyone again next year. Our chapter could not carry out its many events and activities without the support, dedication and sponsorship of our terrific volunteers, board members, suppliers and Landscape Ontario staff. Everyone contributes to make Toronto Chapter successful! Respectfully submitted, Lindsay Drake Nightingale Second vice president, 2009-2010

Upper Canada President: Diana Cassidy-Bush CLP Vice president: Dan Clost CHTR Secretary: Pam McCormick CLP Treasurer: Cory Hendrick Provincial representative: Paul Doornbos CLP, CLT Directors: Scott Wentworth, Stuart Sprout, Judy Bell As we find ourselves at the end of yet another year, it is an ideal time for reflection and thanks. This year marks the end of our seventh year as the Upper Canada Chapter. We have accomplished a lot over that time period, and have built a strong viable Chapter. Our team members are the reason for this success. We have a strong core of volunteers, and I wish to thank them for their continued interest and energy in building a professional and prosperous landscape industry. I wish to extend a special thank you to Paul Doornbos, Pam McCormick and Stephanie Smith for organizing a very successful golf tournament. The golf tournament is not only an important fundraiser for our Chapter, but it is a valuable social gathering for our members and their companies. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our many members for their support of our events, meetings, and seminars. All members and potential members in the landscape industry within our Upper Canada Chapter are always welcomed and encouraged to get involved – together we can and do make a difference! Over the past year, we focused on three main objectives: Human Resources Development, Branding to the Public, and Local Relevance. The Human Resources Development focus takes on many facets, including business competence, technical competence, and labour development. Our largest focus included one meeting, which informed our members of how they can get involved and benefit from the apprenticeship program at a local level. Behind the scenes, our education committee champion Dan Clost put forth a fantastic effort to see a local apprenticeship program become reality. Dan spent endless hours building relationships and communicating with the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities (MTCU), Loyalist College, Landscape Ontario’s home office, and all of our members and potential members on this topic. We have not accomplished this goal at the time of this report, but the wheels are well in motion for the apprenticeship program to become a reality. Dan also recognized that the apprenticeship program is a long-term solution for technical competency and labour development within our industry. He continues to work on the viability of such a program

and has also been working closely with Hastings Prince Edward and Limestone School Boards, as well as Job Connect to explore options like co-op, OYAP, and Specialist High Skills Major. Thank you Dan for your perseverance and dedication! Business competency was the focus for many of our meetings and seminars throughout the year. We hosted a very successful event with J. Paul Lamarche, discussing Knowing your Costs. LO offers high quality and relevant seminars that are focused specifically on our industry, helping business owners to build and develop their companies. Branding to the public and local relevance, as well as our human resources development goals, were maximized by our presence and involvement with two shows within our Chapter. The first show was the revitalized Kingston Garden Expo, and the second was the Belleville Home Show. Our objectives for these public events were brand recognition, and taking full advantage of the one-on-one face time with our potential customers to promote our professionalism and our members. We also took the opportunity to reach out to students and talk to them about the great career opportunities within our horticultural industry. It has been a pleasure serving you as your president for the past year. Respectfully submitted, Diana Cassidy-Bush CLP President 2009 – 2010

Waterloo President: David Wright Vice president: Randy Adams Provincial representative: Mike Hayes Treasurer: Robert Tester Secretary: Jeff Thompson Directors: Cor Bultena, Don Prosser, Dale Schieck, Todd Schwindt, Kelly Wagner, Helmut Zgraja August 2009: The year started very strong with our first green project, designed and organized by Chapter board member Don Prosser. Chapter members built the landscape for the model home that was a prize in a raffle by the Kitchener Conestoga Rotary Club. Proceeds went to Kid’s Ability. Don designed an interesting project with a bio swale, patio, permeable paving and a front entry feature. Labour and some materials were donated by Chapter members, and the Chapter paid for the remainder. Total retail value of the project was approximately $70,000. Green for Life was proudly displayed in the ticket office area, where thousands of people passed through during the time the home was on display. The opening was well covered by local media and Landscape Ontario was mentioned during the open-

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010 ing remarks by the Rotary Club. September 2009: Our first meeting of the year was a New Member Night. Held on Sept. 9, it featured a presentation on the Prosperity Partners program and the many services the association has to offer its membership. October 2009: Waterloo Chapter’s technology night featured presentations by Dynascape and Telus. The featured business story was by Earthscape Ontario. The annual business meeting was an all-day event in October with Mark Bradley discussing how to recession-proof your business. November 2009: Our annual snow meeting was well attended by many members from other chapters, as far away as Golden Horseshoe and Durham. Tim Orleman from Kissner Group discussed the salt supply for winter 2010, followed by speakers from SIMA. Our 32nd Annual Fall Freeze-Up dinner and dance was again held at Golf’s Steakhouse and was a success. There were lots of prizes and fun for all. December 2009: The Skilled Trade Showcase was held at Bingeman’s Conference Centre, and Landscape Ontario was a hit with the high school students. Waterloo Chapter, with help from home office staff, Dynascape, and equipment vendors, presented a display of equipment and technology of interest to the industry. Mike Hayes hands-on tree climbing display was a huge hit. The everpopular weather night was presented by Rob Kuhn of Environment Canada’s Severe Weather Office. He discussed where our weather comes from and how weather trends are changing. January 2010: Nutrite hosted the meeting with food and a presentation on what they are all about. Guest speaker was Robert Bower of ICPI, who spoke about trends in the paver industry. He focused his talk on permeable paving. March 2010: We started the night with our board elections. The existing board had previously agreed to stand, but one more member was added to bring in new blood. Elections were followed by a presentation by Haig Seferian on design trends, focusing on outdoor living. April 2010: Our last general meeting of the year was hosted by Elmira Farm Service at its yard. A facility tour and barbecue were followed by a presentation by Belinda Gallagher on using native plants in the landscape. During Earth Week, the Waterloo Chapter, working with the Evergreen Foundation, completed our annual School Yard Greening project at St. Michael’s Catholic School in Cambridge. Many trees, rocks and yards of mulch were put in place in a very short time by the dedicated volunteers, led by Mike Hayes and Dale Schieck. Respectfully submitted, Dave Wright President 2009-2010

Waterloo enjoys baseball tournament.

Windsor President: Mark Williams Vice president: Nino Papa Past president: Karl Klinck Treasurer: Don Tellier CLT Provincial board representative: Garry Moore Secretary: Jay Rivait Directors: Chris Power, Doug Roberts, Chuck Pronger, Dan Garlatti

Regional outlook The business season could be described as a typical one. The weather did what it wanted, and the local business people had to put on their thinking caps in order to give customers something that wasn’t available, or offered by the competition. Hard work and service seemed to be the secret to success. Get up early and work hard to make the sale, or get the job! Gone are the days of having the opportunity handed to you. No silver platters here! The businesses that had focus and worked hard seemed to weather the lack of disposable income in our area. Soon things will slow down, and I hope everyone can take a well deserved rest!

Volunteer renewal No one is certain of what is in store for our industry, but Windsor has had a very positive push for its members. The volunteer group is growing and has welcomed new blood. We seem to feed off and help each other in our endeavors. We hope that this positive energy continues and that we may continue to learn from each other the secrets to success in the horticulture industry. We encourage members’ input at our meetings, both positive and negative. After all,

we are all working toward solutions to benefit all of our members.

Chapter meetings Our Chapter meetings have shown positive attendance. Members left meetings with tangible information, as well as opportunities to network and socialize. October 2009: Bellaire Landscaping hosted this month’s meeting, where 30 members were treated to a delicious barbecue. Everyone was encouraged to peruse the display gardens and beautiful grounds. The sprawling grounds are very impressive and now available for group functions, a setting for wedding photographs, etc. The meeting was enjoyed by all. November 2009: The November meeting was hosted by St. Clair College. It was our Awards of Distinction evening. Thanks go out to St. Clair College, Don Tellier and Jay Terryberry for their hard work and dedication to this event and to the Winter Blooms Show. December 2009: This meeting was held at the University of Windsor. Sally Harvey presented information on the Prosperity Partners program, as well as a question and answer period. We also visited the Living Wall at the University. All were impressed! The meeting was very well attended, thanks to Garry Moore’s excellent organizational skills and hard work. It was a great evening. January 2010: Windsor Chapter members proved they could create some of the best: Best Booth at the Landscape Ontario Trade Show went to Santerra Stonecraft from Windsor. Bellaire Landscape won three first place awards at Landscape Ontario Provincial Awards of Excellence. This is a very positive accomplishment for both of these businesses.

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

We are very proud of them! Both firms are very active in our Chapter. February 2010: Our February meeting was hosted by Santerra Stonecraft. It featured Adrien Leblanc from the Ministry of Labour, as well as Stefan Fediuk from the City of Windsor Planning Department. A full house was in attendance. Members enjoyed food, discussion and valuable information. March 2010: Tony DiGiovanni and Landscape Ontario president Tom Intven attended our March meeting, which was held at Dominion Golf Club. It was an excellent location for our membership drive meeting. Our thanks go to Dan Garlatti for organizing this meeting. Lunch and conversation were enjoyed by over 40 people in attendance. Newsletter: Jay Rivait has done an excellent job keeping everyone informed and up to date. Jay has always responded quickly with information requested by myself and our members. Thanks Jay! Winter Blooms: Thanks again to St. Clair College for hosting this event. It features beautiful gardens and informative speakers. The horticulture students

get involved in the set-up of the show and gain valuable experience. This event gives the retail public real inspiration and information in the spring, as they head out into their own gardens. Winter Blooms has a solid group of volunteers, including Don Tellier, Karl Klinck, Chris Power, Jay Terryberry and John Lein, just to name a few. Summer golf tournament: The golf tournament was held on Sept. 11 at Tilbury Golf Club. This event was well supported by the many sponsors. The prize table was huge! Jay Rivait and Dan Garlatti chaired this event and did a wonderful job. Members should mark their calendars with the date of next year’s tournament, so they don’t miss this great opportunity. President’s message: Thank you to everyone who is involved in the Windsor Chapter of Landscape Ontario. Please continue to give generously of your time and talents. Your friendship and support means more than you realize. We often forget it is more fun to play the game, than to criticize from the sideline. I encourage all members to try and get involved just a little bit more. We do need your help and you can make a difference. This Chapter helps us all. Watch

for your newsletter and please come to our next function. You will be glad you did! The Chapter will be involved in a number of projects in 2010-2011. Here are a few examples: Hospice Solidarity Garden, Hospice Reception Garden and the Hospice Administration Building. These projects will allow Landscape Ontario Windsor Chapter to pay it forward to our community. Other projects include Winter Blooms and the planning process for replacing trees damaged by the tornado in Leamington on June 6, 2010. Once again, our Chapter does make a difference. Please get involved! Respectfully submitted, Mark Williams President 2009-2010

Sector reports The scope and mandate — and therefore the needs — of the various industry sectors served by Landscape Ontario are distinctly different. The specific requirements of each of these groups are facilitated by the association’s sector group structure. The objective of each sector group is to respond to current concerns resulting from marketplace pressures and government legislation.

Garden Centre Chair and provincial board representative: Bob McCannell Members: Barry Benjamin, Perry Grobe, John Hawkes, Alice Klamer, Robert Kuepfer, Chas Lawton CIT, CHTR, Shannon Lindensmith, Susan Richards, Tony Sgambelluri, Michael Van Dongen, Art Vanden Eden CHTR The Garden Centre Symposium was held at Garden Expo in Oct., 2009. Over 120 people were in attendance. Everyone enjoyed dynamic guest speakers, Kip Creel, Tom Shay and Jeff Morey. The Sector Group decided to continue this educational program at EXPO, 2010. Plastic pot recycling remains as a major concern of independent garden centres. CNLA and Landscape Ontario hosted a one-week recycling event that was deemed very successful.

The committee continues to review the Strategic Plan that was developed last year. It has created a roadmap for the group to go forward. The CNLA Garden Centre Group, known as Garden Centres Canada (G.C.C.), under the leadership of chair Anthony O’Neill, is still encouraging garden centres to participate in the national inspection program. Participation this year encouraged the development and training of a home-grown inspector to carry on this valuable method of evaluating independent businesses. For the past two years Eve Tigwell from England has conducted the inspections. The garden centre committee has commissioned the creation of a generic employee manual. This is expected to be available online, free of charge to all LO members. The manual will outline standards, policies and procedures in the workplace. It will also include government standards, by which all employees must abide. This manual is scheduled to be available in Sept., 2010. As of Sept., 2010, Bob McCannell has stepped down as chair, with the new chair being Michael Van Dongen. Respectfully submitted, Bob McCannell Chair 2009 – 2010

Grounds Management Chair: Mike DeBoer CLT Provincial board representative: Brian Marsh Members: Carmine Filice CLP, Jacki Hart CLP, John Hewson CLP, Patrick Kehoe, Anthony Kampen, Dean Schofield, Rodger Tschanz This is the fourth year of the Trial Gardens at the Landscape Ontario home office site, under the supervision of Rodger Tschanz of the University of Guelph. The goal of the trials is to highlight new and under-utilized plant varieties to the Ontario landscaping industry. This year included the Vineland pack trial, addition of perennial and vegetable trials, shade garden trials in the boulevard and hanging baskets from Ontario Parks Association. The group hosted a two-day open house in August. The first day was geared for industry members, attracting over 80 attendees, while an open house for the public during the following day had over 175 attendees. Sponsors this year were Gro-Bark (Ontario), A.M.A. Plastics, Goodsmith Seeds, Agri-Food Laboratories, Agrium Advanced Technologies, Fafard et Freres, KAM’S Growers Supply,

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010 Landsource Organix, Perlite Canada and Plant Products. Plant material was donated by American Takii, Ball Horticulture, Blooms of Bressingham, Goldsmith Seeds, Jelitto Seeds, Myers Industries Lawn and Garden Group, Ontario Seed Company, PanAmerican Seed, Proven Winners, Seeds of Change, Sun Gro Horticulture, Suntory and Syngenta. Thank you to all who participated and ensured that this event was a great success The group worked on and discussed the following issues: • Pesticide ban - The overall impression of the group is that the pesticide ban can be turned into an opportunity to promote cultural practices. The most important activities are to build soil fertility, friability, organic matter, and air and water retention capacity • Developed a strategic plan through SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats). The vision of the Grounds Group: “A prosperous, professional, ethical, recognized and trusted grounds maintenance sector.” • Benchmarking Projects/Chart of Accounts by developing a program that includes overhead, sales per truck, sales per day, productivity ratios, etc. • Develop a Communication Plan. Who is our customer? What is our story? And what are the possible deliverables of this information? • Update rate card for industry. Concerns/issues pertaining to the industry sector are mainly environmental concerns over emissions from small equipment (ie: mowers, blowers, etc.). The group expects to investigate more on this issue over the next year. Respectfully submitted, Mike DeBoer CLT Chair, 2009 - 2010

Growers Chair: Mark Ostrowski Vice chair: Gerwin Bouman Treasurer: Melissa Spearing Provincial board representative: Dave Braun Members: Harry De Vries, Chelsea Stroud, Tim Dyer, Jeff Gregg, Jennifer Llewellyn, Glen Lumis, John Moons, Bill Putzer, Fred Somerville, Dave Tillaart, Alex Verbinnen, Youbin Zheng The Nursery Growers’ sector group continued to work on strategic priorities throughout the year, which include professional development and

education, research and market development and industry advocacy and promotion. The year started out in September, 2009, with a very successful annual Growers’ Research Auction, hosted by Somerville Nurseries. Many made the trip to Alliston on a beautiful, hot day to bid on top quality plant material, landscape supplies and equipment. Great food and camaraderie were enjoyed by all who participated, raising almost $20,000 for our horticultural research and scholarship program. During the year, we moved the date of the Annual Auction to an earlier month, July. This idea is to encourage more landscape contractors The University of Guelph trial gardens are now in their fourth year at LO. and garden centres to bid at the Royal Botanical Gardens to hear presenon material they feel can tations on water, pest and soil management be sold during the remaining season. Combining practices. Several industry suppliers brought the Auction with a customer appreciation day at exhibits and shared their products and service Milton, we had an excellent turnout this year on knowledge with attendees. A thank you goes to July 15. Participants were able to enjoy special Plant Products for sponsoring a great lunch. speakers, demonstrations, supplier exhibits and The annual summer nursery tour was not the trial gardens, as well as a great lunch hosted held this year, because of new timing with the by Agrium Advanced Technologies. Thanks to all research auction. It is scheduled for September, of the bidders, sponsors, volunteers and staff, as a one-day visit to several growers in the Golden the result was a net contribution of $22,000 for Horseshoe area. industry research and scholarships. Francesco Pacelli, nursery grower technical The growers’ group acknowledged the Green analyst, worked throughout the year to profor Life branding initiative early in the year with a mote the Domestic Phytosanitary Certification visit to one of our meetings from Bob McCannell, Program. This grew into a broader emphasis on branding committee co-chair. A brainstorming Integrated Pest Management. Francesco also session was held to identify ways to use the represented the Ontario growers at the discussion branding materials and website in order to protable with provincial and conservation groups mote the industry. regarding invasive alien species, which has The fall dinner meeting was held at the become a controversial issue in recent years. Oakville Quality Inn. A group of 45 attendees This year, the growers took a more proactive enjoyed networking with industry peers over stance with leveraging research and development refreshments and dinner. Jim Brandle and monies available from government programs. Hannah Mathers, both of Vineland Research A new sub-committee was formed with Alex and Innovation Centre, gave updates on progress Verbinnen as chair. The group of committed and nursery grower projects at the facility. This growers identified key research priorities. This was followed by an educational session on Lean was communicated to researchers in a call for Management from Stewart Anderson and Angelo proposals to help advance the technical and marLyall of Kaizen Solutions. ket development needs of our industry. Several The annual Nursery Growers Short Course projects are currently underway. was spearheaded by Jennifer Llewellyn and Glen Thank you to all of the directors, volunteers, Lumis on Feb. 10. Almost 200 growers gathered

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Irrigation Chair: Chris Le Conte Board representative: Steve Macartney CIT, CLT Members: Christian Brunet, Brian de Caluwe CIT, Andrew Gaydon, Kara Gibbons, Gillian Glazer, Lorne Haveruk CIT, John Lamberink CIT, Ian McMillan CIT, Don McQueen CIT, Mike Ross, Paul Schnarr CIT, Tony Serwatuk CIT, Gary Supp, Chuck Yates CIT

Growers’ tour visits Niagara area.

sponsors and staff who work very hard to ensure that this industry continues to be a vibrant, successful and fun sector to work in! Respectfully submitted, Mark Ostrowski Chair, 2009-2010

Interior Plantscapes Chair: Stephen Schell CLT Vice chair: Peter Tigchelaar Provincial board representative: Stephen Schell Members: Hella Keppo CLT, Fred Prescod CLT, Phil Van Alstyne CLT, Nanthankumar Paramanathan, Dave DeVries In October, 2009, we held the first Interior Landscape breakfast during Garden Expo at the Toronto Congress Centre. Keynote speaker was Robert van Aardt. His topic was trends for the industry. Over 50 people attended this event. The breakfast was a great success, providing a wonderful opportunity to network. The sector group made plans to do it again in Oct., 2010

at EXPO. It was felt this is the correct venue to promote the interior plantscape industry. Other items of interest: • Group became a member of Green Plants for Green Buildings. This allows members access to numerous training programs and marketing promotion material. • Working with Redeemer College to provide a marketing plan for the industry. The process will be part of the school’s curriculum • The sector group is working with PLANET to finalize the interior certification manual. The committee feels it is taking steps in the right direction and looks forward to a successful 2010 - 2011 year. Respectfully submitted, Stephen Schell CLT Chair 2009-2010

The year 2010 was a good one for the irrigation industry. Dry and hot weather resulted in increased activity in sales and service. No water bans or restrictions were reported to have impacted the industry. In 2010, the Irrigation Sector Group focused on education. After much debate, it was decided that the CIT certification would be abandoned with an increased focus on Irrigation Association certifications, such as CIC (Certified Irrigation Contractor) and CLIA (Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor). These courses will be offered in Feb., Mar. and Apr. of 2011. Exams will be written at centres across Ontario. Registration for courses will be through Landscape Ontario. Exam registrations should be submitted at least 30 days prior, through the Irrigation Association. Landscape Ontario is continuing to offer basic irrigation training courses. Please review the Professional Development Guide for future developments. On Jan. 11, the Irrigation Sector Group will host its annual conference. The 2011 agenda is full of interesting topics and speakers on the subjects of irrigation pilot studies and irrigation innovation. This is a great chance to hear from industry experts and to expand your knowledge. The irrigation industry is coming under increasing scrutiny from policy makers and environmental groups. Currently there is very little contractor representation on the Sector Group Board, and this is alarming. The Sector Group needs contractors’ participation to help form positions and to have a handle on what is happening out in the field. If you care about your industry and your business, show your support by attending meetings and contributing to discussion. Respectfully submitted, Chris Le Conte Chair: 2009 – 2010

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Lighting symposium was sold out.

Landscape Contractors Chair/board representative: Peter Guinane Members: Harry Gelderman, Ryan Heath CLP, CLT, Brian Clegg, Barry Hordyk, Brian Marsh, Arthur Skolnik, Charlie Dobbin I would like to thank all of the members of our committee for contributing their time. The annual lecture series was held in conjunction with Industry Night at Canada Blooms on Mar. 18, 2010. Speakers were Ron Koudys and Adam Gracey, who focused on how landscape architects and contractors can better work together. Special appreciation went to the sponsors of the event, Beaver Valley Stone, Dufferin Aggregates, Eloquip, and Unilock. Over 80 attendees enjoyed the talks, and then joined the Industry Night celebration and awards presentation. The Landscape Contractors Sector Group assists with the feature gardens at Canada Blooms, reviewing all entries to ensure they meet industry standards and quality. With the assistance of LO staff, and Tim Kearney’s vision, the wow factor was returned to the show in the Landscape Ontario garden. The 2010 Canada Blooms show at the new location, Direct Energy Centre, was a great success with everything on one floor level. Applications for feature gardens at the 2011 event have exceeded the space available, and will ensure excellence through healthy competition.

It is hoped representatives from all the chapters will be involved with the Contractors’ Group, in order to ensure the needs of members from all the chapters are captured. Our group will visit all chapters and give presentations to LO members and moderate a discussion of issues within each chapter. Our group investigated ways to maximize the benefits of certification. The number of certified members has grown quickly and we believe it will reach a critical mass and become the standard. This will further distinguish LO members and trigger a shift in customer expectations. Publicity of our program will make it much easier for companies with certified staff to compete against those with uncertified staff. The Contractors support the new Green for Life initiative. We are the green industry, and we need to get the message out to the public. Respectfully submitted, Peter Guinane Chair, 2009-2010

Landscape Designers

Items of interest

Chair: Tony Lombardi CLD Provincial board representative: Beth Edney CLD Treasurer: Janet Ennamorato Newsletter editor: Jennifer Hayman Members: Paul Brydges, Don Chase CLD, Harry Gelderman, Judith Humphries CLD, Alice Klamer, Ron Koudys, OALA,CLD, Fred Post CLD, Haig Seferian CLD, Ron Swentiski CLD

A newsletter focuses on issues pertaining to the contractor sector. Arthur Skolnik has been writing articles to answer questions and provide insight into issues that affect all landscape contractors. They are available online and in the regular LO newsletters.

The Landscape Designers hosted the annual conference at Congress on Jan. 11, 2010. It was a very successful event, with over 180 people in attendance. All speakers and topics were well received by the audience. Added to the confer-

ence was a special area where sponsors of the event were provided tabletop displays and had the opportunity to network with participants. The group also hosted the first Designers’ Breakfast at Garden Expo in Oct., 2009. It was close to being a sold out event. Plans for 2010 are well under way for participation at Garden Expo in the form of a breakfast seminar, and with another great conference in January. The Designer newsletter continues to be a great success and has been widely circulated. It is to be incorporated with the LO website. A committee continues to work on the CLD exam and portfolio review. We are working with the CNLA on renewing the CLD licensing agreement. There are several new members taking on responsibilities within the committee. We also have been working hard to resolve the issues surrounding the gap between Landscape Industry Certified and the older Certified Landscape Designer branding. Discussions include the process, standards and ongoing education opportunities. The committee is very close to completing a manual. Respectfully submitted, Tony Lombardi CLD Chair, 2009-2010

Lawn Care Chair: Steve Tschanz Provincial board representative: Alan White Members: Tom Somerville, John Wright, Rohan Harrison, Don McQueen CIT, Don Voorhees, Paul Gaspar, Richard Reed, Bill Van Ryn Jr, Mark Goodman, Kyle Tobin, Dave Soepboer, Ryan Van Haastrecht, Lee Radcliffe, Thom Bourne CIT, Phil Bull, Pam Charbonneau, Martin Horsman, Gavin Dawson The frustration of last year continues for the lawn care sector. Out of the gate in the spring, a new herbicide was approved by the PMRA and was quickly approved by the MOE. This product was received with great anticipation, however, demand surpassed the supply projections for the product, leading to shortages and many headaches for lawn care operators. Lawn Care is still looking for registered answers on insect control, particularly with chinch bugs. We expressed concern last year with the MOE’s inability to police the pesticide ban across the province. This concern was met with many visits to operators during the season, however, there still seems to be a lack of enforcement. Many of the committee members have witnessed

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

cheating on some level. The pursuit of happiness is ongoing, as we have been unsuccessful in obtaining a meeting with the new Minister of Environment. Stewardship Ontario threatened us with a potential fertilizer bag levy of two cents per kg. Although we had a representative visit us and understand our issues, agriculture was the only sector that had its fee altered. Thanks to political pressure, this levy was postponed with the other Phase II products that had been scheduled for July 1, 2010. Efforts are under way to build on the Landscape Ontario’s recycling program of July, making it possible to recycle all fertilizer bags across the province. Promoting the benefits of turf continues as a focal point of the group. This is an education process that must continually be developed and implemented. More public understanding of turf’s benefits may make it possible to recapture what has been lost because of the pesticide restrictions. A second focus is the involvement with the formulation of a certified program for lawn care. A rough plan has been drafted and work still needs to be done before submission. Lastly, a new development is the concern of fertilizer use in the watershed. Although this is still a relatively new subject, the sector group must keep a close eye on the situation. It has been a challenging year, but the optimism of the sector is good as operators feel that they have hit bottom, and are climbing back. Respectfully submitted, Steve Tschanz Chair, 2009 – 2010

Lighting

to our concerns. They are presently writing guidelines for Landscape Lighting. Much of the document was taken from our guidelines. They realize that expertise exists within our industry. We are looking forward to working with the ESA to promote professionalism in the lighting sector. In addition to the advocacy work with ESA, we have been busy collectively writing a Lighting Manual that will serve as the basis for a certification program. We have almost completed the project. The lighting group is also pleased to report that our first Lighting Symposium was a great success. We had to turn away people. We are looking forward to next year’s event. The Lighting Group has been a wonderful venue to exchange ideas, network and learn from each other. I am proud to serve as Chair of the group, as well as the provincial board representative. Respectfully submitted, John Higo Chair, 2009-2010

Snow and Ice Chair: Edward Hewis Provincial board representative: Gerald Boot CLP Treasurer: Robert Roszell Members: Randy Adams, Vince Arone, John Buikema, John Fulford, Steve Hary, Mark Humphries, Jim Monk, John O’Leary CLT, Darren Rodrigues, Robert Tester, Willem Tiemersma Without a doubt, liability due to slip-and-fall incidents continue to be the most serious issue for our sector. It got so bad this year that our

Chair/Provincial board representative: John Higo Members: Pamela Bingham, Frank DiMarco, Jason Fleming, Duncan Fuller, Gillian Glazer, Carl Hastings, Leon Hordyk, Raymond Josephian, Anne Lesperance, Cory MacCallum,Ken Martin, Susan Smith, James Solecki, Joe Willemse, Corey Yourkin It has been a very productive year for the Lighting Sector Group. The original formation of the group was primarily from a reaction to a threat by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) to limit landscape lighting work exclusively to Master Electricians. LO members mounted an awareness campaign to demonstrate that low voltage lighting can be installed by professionals regardless of whether they are Master Electricians. I am pleased to say that the ESA listened

Sector group holds successful snow symposium.

endorsed insurance carrier decided to get out of the snow business in Southern Ontario, leaving many of us scrambling for protection. I am pleased to announce that we now have a new carrier and a new broker. Marsh is one of the largest insurance brokers in the world. It has arranged for Royal Sun Alliance to be the carrier. The Snow and Ice Sector Group is participating on a newly formed Risk Management Council to ensure that we do whatever possible to improve best practices in our sector and thereby reduce liability exposure. We are proud that one of our members, Gerald Boot, is the chair of the CNLA Insurance Committee. Although insurance dominates, we also organized a very successful snow symposium. This year we partnered with the Municipal Equipment Operators Association and held the event at the Kitchener Auditorium. Although the trade show was sold out in terms of exhibitor space, the trade show attendance numbers were disappointing. Next year, the sector group will participate in organizing a new symposium in Ottawa. The group has also been active in the formation of the new Smart about Salt Council. The council is a separate legal entity that includes representation from Landscape Ontario, Building Owners and Managers Association and the Region of Waterloo. The goal is to expand the accreditation program across Canada. Marsh will be giving credits to all customers who are Smart about Salt accredited. This year we also developed and distributed a new industry rate card. In addition, we contributed our input into the revamped Standard Form Contract. Respectfully submitted, Ed Hewis Chair 2009 – 2010

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Committee reports All of Landscape Ontario’s affairs are governed by its members. Regional needs are met at the chapter level, while industry-specific issues are dealt with at the sector group level. All other affairs are conducted at the committee level. Some, such as Congress, Communications or Finance, are long-standing committees that oversee the association’s very important, revenue-generating activities. Often, committees are formed on an as-need basis to deal with specific matters. Once a committee has successfully completed its mandate, the committee is discontinued.

Branding Co-chairs: Bob McCannell and Paul Doornbos CLP, CLT Members: Diana Cassidy-Bush CLP, Phil Dickie, Tom Intven, Tim Kearney CLP, Shannon Lindensmith, Steve Macartney CIT, CHT, Jim McCracken, Mark Ostrowski, Alan White After a successful launch at Canada Blooms 2009, the Branding Committee switched gears in the fall, focusing on initiatives to sustain the momentum of the Canada Blooms launch and educate members on adopting and spreading the Green for Life culture. The GFL brand has now been successfully incorporated into all association activities, events and promotional materials — both trade and public. The GFL brand was present at every opportunity at Congress in 2010, including the first-ever Mayors’ Breakfast, in partnership with Via Rail and Communities in Bloom Ontario. Delegates from municipalities across the province traveled aboard the Green for Life Express train to attend Congress. A special breakfast was held with Toronto Mayor David Miller in attendance. The GFL brand grew immensely in 2010 by reaching beyond Ontario to the rest of Canada. In February, a presentation was made in Ottawa to the provincial executive directors from across the country about the success of our branding initiative in Ontario. We extended an invitation to the rest of the provinces to license our brand. Within a few months, B.C., New Brunswick, Alberta, Manitoba, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland all signed on to adopt the GFL skin for their website and to use the new logo to brand the respective associations to the public. GFL had a large presence at Canada Blooms in March 2010 with the creation of a spectacular

feature garden that showcased the GFL message. It was built by an endless number of volunteers who came together to showcase the industry and what our members can achieve together — the philosophy of the GFL culture at work. In July, new signage with the GFL brand and message was installed on the LO home office building in Milton, prior to the annual Growers’ Auction and Trial Gardens Open House. The GFL brand is now seen by tens of thousands of motorists each day driving along Highway 401. In 2010, LO staff continues to work with a public relations firm to issue monthly press releases to the media, generating even more exposure for our brand. We have had several articles printed in major newspapers such as the Toronto Star, Toronto Sun, National Post and Ottawa Citizen, in addition to community papers. As a result, many local newspapers and magazines also profile, or consult with LO members. Denis Flanagan continues to attend dozens of home and garden shows and horticultural society meetings, along with numerous television, radio and newspaper interviews promoting the GFL brand and LO’s members. The centrepiece of our branding initiative, the landscapeontario.com website, continues as the focal point of our campaign. The site is constantly updated, refined and improved, based on feedback by the branding committee, LO members, and the general public. Website traffic is steadily increasing — a direct result of our members and staff who continue to get the word out. In the first nine months after launching our brand, the consumer site received over 100,000 visitors. At the end of the fiscal year, your committee is pleased to report there is still a considerable amount of money left in our budget. The branding initiative now moves to a new budget of $20,000 annually to continue promotion and member education now that the brand has been incorporated into all association activities. We would like to add a special thank you to the core of dedicated committee members who attend all of our meetings. They are leaders in their respective fields and have a genuine passion to promote, not themselves, but their competitors, our members and our industry for the benefit of all. Respectfully submitted, Bob McCannell and Paul Doornbos CLP, CLT Co-chairs, 2010

Building Chair: Karl Stensson Directors: Hank Gelderman CLT, Tom Intven, Paul Olsen, John Putzer, Haig Seferian CLD, Marc Thiebaud, Rene Thiebaud CLP, Bob Tubby CLP, Monica van Maris, Neil Vanderkruk My proudest moment as chair of the Building Committee was to finally see the large and beautiful sign on the property that proclaimed Landscape Ontario and Green for Life to 270,000 cars that pass by on the 401 each day. I originally joined the building committee, because I was tired of looking at the “sheet” on the side of the building. My personal mission was to get rid it. It took our committee a long time to approve the new sign, because there were questions about whether we would be moving off the property to another site. I am pleased to report, that after serious investigation and with the aid of some professional assistance, we decided without a doubt that we are staying at our present location. We also determined that we do not need all of our 48 acres to operate the home office. The original plan to build 160 gardens and a full-time school has been shelved. We are focused instead on improving our facilities on approximately 10 acres of land. In the meantime, the building committee recommended that the board purchase an additional half-acre with a house. The deal was closed in November. The home adjoins our property on the north side and gives us our own direct access to Steeles Ave. Our consultant was very persuasive in convincing us that access to Steeles will make the remaining property much more valuable to a developer. The house has since been rented. Eventually we will build a state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a professional development centre and reflect our values as an association of professional businesses. If you recall, last year we almost made a deal with neighbouring developers to sell six acres for a water retention pond. The deal has been put on hold until the economy turns around. We will continue to act as responsible stewards to ensure that the value of the property is maximized for the benefit of the membership. Respectfully submitted, Karl Stensson Chair 2009 - 2010

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Green for Life comes alive at Canada Blooms.

Canada Blooms Co-chairs: Peter Guinane and Janet Rowley Directors: Gerald Boot CLP, Mark Cullen, Jeff Olsen, Roz Titley, Michel Gauthier, Joyce Johnson, Jacqueline Tilford Clarke Canada’s largest garden and flower festival changed homes in 2010, moving from the Metro Toronto Convention Centre to the Direct Energy Centre, and success followed closely. It was also a first, when Landscape Ontario companies joined forces to build a super garden. A team of Landscape Ontario volunteers set the bar to an extremely high level for those who take on the task to design and build future display gardens at Canada Blooms. It all began with the leadership of Tim Kearney and Beth Edney. The LO Green for Life garden featured a spectacular waterfall, fronted by an amazing dry stone wall that carried steel letters spelling Landscape Ontario. Two sedum-covered silos grabbed the attention of visitors as they entered the garden. Inside were spectacular plants, unique hardscaping materials and a reflection pool. It took 160 hours and thousands of dollars worth of materials donated by industry and LO members to create the garden. “Canada Blooms is all about people. And, that is what LO is all about,” said Tim Kearney. “Our association is a community dedicated to the improvement of our industry and its people.” In five short days, 45 companies, 200 individuals, and hundreds of thousands of dollars of value created our garden. Every chapter in our province was represented. This is a first. Beth Edney said, “The 46 companies that

participated in the design and build of the feature garden at Canada Blooms exemplified the skill and knowledge that our members possess. Pride was taken during every process, from planning to execution and even during the dismantling of the garden. I am truly honoured to have been the lead designer on such a wonderful accomplishment.” Canada Blooms 2010 saw attendance grow by over 16 per cent. The new venue at the Direct Energy Centre was a huge hit with both LO members, exhibitors and the public. The show has been named one of Ontario’s Top 100 events by Festivals Ontario and one of North America’s Top 100 events by the American Bus Association. Canada Blooms created a high profile, attracting Ontario’s largest media corporations, including The Toronto Star and CTV. Financially, Canada Blooms 2010 net proceeds are in excess of $100,000, with the audited statement presented to Landscape Ontario members at the September board meeting. This is quite substantial, considering the show’s reliance on sponsors, marketplace and admissions for funding. A great deal of credit must go to the following people and businesses: Volunteers — Adele Pierre Landscape Design: Adele Pierre CLD; Bellaire Landscape: Chris Power, Bob Bellaire, Robbie Musson; Boot’s Landscaping & Maintenance: Gerald Boot CLP, John Boot CIT, CLT, Steve Boot, Gregory Bouwman, Marcos Chipre, Christiaan Dannrath, Ryan Haluska CIT, CLT, Collin Brasz, Kirby Brock CIT, Carlos Orana, Art Salomons, Brian Streight, Vic Velastegni; Brookdale Treeland Nurseries: Bruce Warren; Connon Nurseries/NVK Holdings: Rick Vanderkruk, Paul

DeGroot, plus 15 employees; Creative Gardens and Waterscapes: Ross Allin; Cypress Hill Design and Build: Margaret Abernethy, Richard Portelance; Designs by the Yard: Beth Edney CLD; Dr. Landscape: Tony Lombardi CLD; Dry Stone Guild of Canada: Sean Donnelly, Dean McLellan, Reid Snow; Dutchman’s Landscaping: Walter Hassleman; Earth Art Landscapes: Louise Bedford, Pat Elo CLT, Jeremy Graham, Brian Marsh; Environmental Design Group: Glen Bridge, Frank Oppermann, Koos Torenvliet, Nick Torenvliet, Nick Torenvliet Jr., Mark Torenvliet, Nate Torenvliet, Tony Torenvliet, Shannon Vanderkruk; Garden Creations of Ottawa: Ryan Kearney CLT, Tim Kearney CLP, Tim O’Brien, Grace Poljanec, Diana Dawson, Jason Robinson CLT, Ryan Kelly CIT, Kent Merkley CLT, Nathan Armstrong, JC Peacock, Jason Smalley CLD, Lynda Blackburn CLT; Garden Retreats: Connie Cadotte CLD; Gelderman Landscaping: Harry Gelderman; Ground Control Contracting: Edward Hewis; Heritage Green Landscape Contractors: Jeff Lowartz CHTM; Hirsig Landscapes: Sonja Hirsig; J. Garfield Thompson Landscaping: James Thompson; Landscape Gate and Garden: Colin Holwell; MapleRidge Landscapes: Tim Sieders, Kurt Sieders; Moonstruck Landscape Lighting: Lee Franchino, Carl Hastings, Stefan Keochlin, Adam Lutes, Murray Macken, Conrad Montiero, Blake Tubby, Bob Tubby CLP, Geneva Tubby, Mauro Vesia; Noldus of Durham: Don Voorhees; Picture Perfect Landscaping Quinte: Neil Bouma, Elaine Bouma; Ryan Heath Professional Landscaping: Ryan Heath CLP; Shademaster Landscaping: Barry Hordyk, plus ten employees; Sheridan Nurseries: Brenda Luckhardt; The Beach Gardener: Mark Bradley; The Cutting Garden: Sian Pritchard; The Gardening Guy: Norm Mills; Thornbusch Landscaping: Kim Borthwick, Paul Doornbos CLT, CLP; Treefrog Designs: Judy Bell; Turf Management Systems: Steve Tschanz; University of Guelph Trial Gardens: Rodger Tschanz; University of Windsor: Garry Moore; Water’s Edge Landscaping: Heather Chavusen, Jacki Hart CLP, Sherri Hornsey; Wildrose Gardening: James Irwin, Rob Reid; Yorkshire Garden Services: Zita Anuscenko, Lindsay Drake Nightingale, Frank Ferragine, Nicola Kamp, Laurie Leek, Martha Walsh. Suppliers — Camilla House Imports, Connon Nurseries/NVK Holdings, Credit Valley Quarries, Global Arch, Permacon, Sempergreen, Dufferin Aggregate and GroBark. Respectfully submitted, Peter Guinane, Janet Rowley Co-chairs, 2009

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

CNLA LO representative: Gerald Boot CLP CNLA held its winter meeting in the nation’s capital on Feb. 18 and 19. Previous to the CNLA meeting, Landscape Canada held a strategic planning session to define the group’s priorities. The Landscape Sector has taken on the new certification logo, Landscape Industry Certified. This logo brings together the separate designations, CHT, CLD and CLP. The National Awards of Excellence was held in Ottawa on Feb. 17, recognizing those companies that have significantly raised the level of professionalism in our landscape industry. The evening was a huge success, thanks to the efforts of the Landscape Ontario Ottawa Chapter. CNLA, through its executive, board members and staff, continue to visit various government branches and offices in Ottawa on behalf of the membership. Meetings were held throughout the year with various department and executive directors at the federal government level. CNLA recognizes the importance of this process, and will keep the communication open with government officials. Direct face-to-face visits are essential in order to relay our questions and concerns to the government. The CNLA Board of Directors agreed at the 2010 winter meeting in Ottawa that commonalities exist in all three strategic planning documents for the three sector groups (Growers Canada, Landscape Canada and Garden Centres Canada). The board noted the following issues as unified concerns among the three groups: labour development, professional development, environment, government support, public awareness, membership, and market development. While the tactical plan for each sector group may differ in order to accommodate the group’s specific need, they all align as common goals of a prosperous industry. Growers within our industry will be happy to note that Agri-Food Canada has awarded CNLA the sole license agreement of the former breeding programs at the research centres in Morden, Man. and Saint Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que. The royalty stream from these research programs to CNLA will create a fund that will be invested into an ornamental breeding program, managed by CNLA. Vineland Research and Innovation Centre was chosen as the location to develop a rose breeding, evaluation and selection process. This is a great opportunity for CNLA to continue the breeding program and international marketing of

hardy Canadian roses. CNLA and Vineland have applied to the Canadian Agricultural Adaptation Program (CAAP) for a project to create a sustainable ornamental breeding program for Canada. We are very optimistic that this request will be forthcoming and greatly assist our joint efforts to improve the ornamental industry. The Landscape Sector has been active with Skills Canada promoting horticulture to youth making their career choices. The landscape pavilion continues as a prominent feature at each Skills Canada competition. A survey by Landscape Canada saw the best response in recent history, which collected valuable information from the industry. The survey was sent to membership and is now located on the Landscape Canada link of the CNLA website www.canadanursery.com. The CNLA Green for Life 4-H Landscape Horticulture proposal received the green light through the various levels of approval process. It is now in the development stage. This inaugural program will engage Canadian youth in green industry related educational endeavors. Its intent is to also forge a stronger relationship between 4-H and industry members across Canada. In collaboration with the HR Committee and HRSDC, three National Occupational Classification (NOC) Codes were revised: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance Labourer (8216), Landscape and Horticulture Technicians and Specialists (2225) and Landscape and Horticulture Supervisors (8256). These activities provided needed updates that affect many aspects of Human Resources Policy by HRSDC. Highlights for Garden Centres Canada include: • Garden Centre Inspection Program, held for two weeks in June. Seventeen garden centres were inspected (14 half-day inspections and three full-day). The comments back from participating garden centres have been very positive. • A plastic recycling week was held June 28 to July 5 in Ontario and B.C., where 250 skids, or 53,149 lbs. of plastic were diverted from landfills. • GCC has been working with a team of MBA students from Wilfrid Laurier University to develop a program linking primary school children and local garden centres. This program would teach children about the benefits of the environment and horticulture through school presentations and demonstrations by garden centre staff, or field trips for children to their local garden centre as part of the school’s curriculum delivery.

CNLA agreed to become joint owners of the property formerly known as the Rittenhouse school property at Vineland Station. CNLA, joined with Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, the Cecil Delworth Foundation (the foundation of Flowers Canada Growers Ontario), Ag. Energy, Landscape Ontario and Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation to become (Tenants in Common). The property is approximately four acres of land, zoned for research. It is located at 3494-3410 North Service Road, Vineland, adjacent to the Vineland Centre. This purchase enables CNLA to support research, with LO as a stakeholder of the property. Through the Canadian Ornamental Horticulture Research and Innovation Cluster (COHA), the ornamental sector submitted and received approval for funding by AAFC, under the Canadian Agri-Science Cluster Initiative. The contribution funding agreement was for up to $1-million, with AAFC collaborative research and development support of up to $467,025. In addition to the industry contribution, there is a total of $1.8-million towards ornamental research across the country. Landscape Ontario’s Green for Life program has been generously offered by LO to all CNLA provincial memberships. CNLA graciously bought into the LO program, which promotes the healthy lifestyle advantages of the green industry. At the August meeting of CNLA in Charlottetown, P.E.I., five provinces took advantage of the extensive marketing campaign. This allows access for all provinces to incorporate Green for Life into their branding plans. Landscape Ontario was thanked for extending this opportunity to the rest of the country. Many thanks to the CNLA staff and the Landscape Ontario members, who so actively serve the CNLA Board and its committees. Respectfully submitted, Gerald Boot CLP CNLA representative

Communications Chair: Hank Gelderman CLT Members: Gerald Boot CLP, Laura Catalano, Marty Lamers and Bob Tubby CLP While recent years have seen many changes i n m e d i a a n d c o m m u n i c a t i o n s , LO ’ s Communications Committee is confident that the association’s communications strategies are keeping members connected with their association, and serving Canada’s green industry well.

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Electronic communications are top-of-mind these days, and LO can be proud of its outreach in that area. Our consumer-targeted landscapeontario.com, cornerstone of our Green for Life promotional initiative, shows continued strong traffic. Members report that new customers are referred by the site, and are both calling and buying. The trade site continues to be a rich source of targeted information, and an important presence for chapters and sector groups. Our weekly LO e-news broadcasts help members keep in touch, and drive participation in events — it’s hard to imagine we did without e-news just a short time ago. LO’s online classifieds are the electronic marketplace for Ontario’s industry. Supporting all these initiatives, our backend interface to upload new electronic content was upgraded this year, giving staff more efficient and immediate power to share information. Advertising revenues for both print publications remained down from 2008 levels, when suppliers cut their promotion budgets in response to the recession. However, we are starting to see growth again, tempered with caution. Horticulture Review continues to be popular and well-read. The LO staff team strives to instill a sense of community within its pages, and highlights members and recognizes their contributions whenever possible. And Landscape Trades continues as the respected, authoritative information source for Canada’s green industry. Its longstanding editorial policies, to put readers first and to treat advertisers equally and fairly, stood the magazine in good stead during the downturn — most North American green industry magazines saw far more dramatic sales declines. Both magazines are dedicated to helping readers become more prosperous in business, making them a natural complement to the Prosperity Partnership. While the program is constantly promoted within our pages, our commitment to publishing fresh, relevant and targeted stories to help our business readers succeed was in place well before the Partnership was created. And finally, we are proud of the service role our communications team provides. Each year, the department’s extra promo and special projects fill a binder over four inches thick. Of special note this year was its rethinking of the Professional Development brochure, themed Pathway to Prosperity. Formerly known as the Publishing Committee, we have adopted Communications Committee as our new name this year, to better reflect the scope of the initiatives we oversee. Thanks to our Committee members for sharing their time and expertise; the committee’s

guidance is an invaluable asset to LO’s communications profile. And thanks to our staff members, whose talent and professionalism further the association and the industry. Respectfully submitted, Hank Gelderman CLT Chair 2009-2010

Congress and Garden Expo – 10th Anniversary Edition Chair: Brian Lofgren Vice-chair, Congress: Brian Cocks CLT Vice-chair, Garden Expo/Florist Expo: Beth Edney CLD Members: Scott Beaudoin, Diana Cassidy-Bush CLP, Terry Childs, Doug Coote, Paul Degroot, Barry Dickson, Nathan Helder, Michael LaPorte CLT, Bob McCannell, Klaas Sikkema, Nick Solty, Jack VandeRee CLT, Monica van Maris Growth during periods of economic transition is unpredictable. The Congress Committee’s two major trade shows, Garden & Floral Expo, Oct. 20 - 21, 2009, and Congress 2010, Jan. 12 14, 2010, achieved mixed results. Both events were held at the Toronto Congress Centre. Garden & Floral Expo’s net revenue declined 28 per cent. This was due to the economic downturn, and comparing results to the best-ever attended show, held the previous year. Congress, on the other hand, experienced an increase of 14 per cent in net revenue. Visitor traffic increased 22 per cent at Congress and decreased at Garden & Floral Expo by a disappointing 15 per cent from the year 2008.

Expo 2009 (formerly Garden & Floral Expo) Garden & Floral Expo 2009 generated a noticeable buzz over the two-day event. From high quality booth displays to new products, a garden centre symposium, education seminars, floral displays and more, this edition provided attendees with great excitement Celebration of the 10th anniversary of Canada’s fall show for the garden and floral industries was done in style with a new Eurolook, provided by a newly appointed artistic director, Albert Graves of Bloemen Decor. Garden & Floral Expo featured new visuals, thanks to the renewed partnership with floral growers and suppliers from Flowers Canada (Ontario)

and Pick Ontario’s marketing initiatives. These were designed to stimulate sales of locally grown plants and flowers. The theatrically-lit back section of the show featured dramatic displays, created by Albert Graves and Beth Edney for the Landscape Ontario Resource Centre, Envision 2010. The duo incorporated a cohesive look for the Green for Life Stage and New/Green Product Showcases. Terry Childs and Michael LaPorte did an admirable job of visually merchandising hundreds of newly introduced plants and products to catch the eye of retailers and stimulate purchasing interest. The decline of attendance by 15 per cent, due to the economic climate across North America, did not dampen the enthusiasm for those retailers with depleted inventories from attending the show and engaging in serious purchasing discussion with more than 270 vendors in 515 booths. Partnerships with Flowers Canada (Ontario), Master Gardeners of Ontario and the Canadian Academy of Floral Art contributed to the aesthetic improvement of the show and introduced a new segment of buyers. The committee is deeply appreciative of the contributions from sponsors Banas Stones, Pick Ontario, and Turf Revolution for the trade show, and Agricultural Adaption Council, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, CanAdvance, Connon Nurseries/NVK, Fafard et Freres, Permacon, Plant Agriculture and Westbrook Floral for contributing to dynamic education programs throughout the two-day event. A major highlight for industry retailers is the Garden Centre Symposium, hosted the day prior to the opening of the show. The symposium attendance remained constant, around 115. This popular event was augmented in 2009 with the shift of the Interior Plantscape Breakfast to the Wednesday (55 attendees). Lorraine Ivanoff’s vision for a revitalized show, resulted in the introduction of a Landscape Designers’ Breakfast (75 attendees) and introduction of ongoing workshops presented by Master Gardeners and Master Floral Designers that ran continuously during show hours on the Green for Life Stage. The Green Techforce, new for 2009, offered mini-workshops on technology tools and trends to improve retail efficiency. Introducing new education programs provides the industry and participants with the knowledge and skills to boost their prosperity and instill employees with the product knowledge required to be effective. Retailer attendees, when surveyed, indicated that new products continue to be the primary reason for attending (83.8 per cent), followed by sourcing new suppliers (68.9 per cent), gaining

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Congress numbers up in 2010

product knowledge (67.6 per cent), discovering industry trends (55.4 per cent) and purchasing (40.5 per cent) for the spring season. The trade show committee took a look at the overall outlook of the Garden & Floral Expo show and decided it wanted to attract other possible partners and organizations to our show. We did not want to limit this to only the garden centre or floral areas, so we decided to change the name of the show to Expo and then add the year of the show. Expo is now well positioned going forward as one of the leading horticulture and floriculture events for the next decade.

Congress 2010 Four days filled with education, products, vendors and networking opportunities attracted a remarkable 22 per cent increase in attendance for Congress 2010, Canada’s largest horticultural, lawn and garden trade show and conference. Balmy weather conditions made the show accessible and timely for delegates from all industry sectors. A relevant education program, founded on the six pillars of business excellence, was designed to strengthen business skills and boost careers. Over 32 sessions, featuring the industry’s most dynamic and renowned experts, were hosted. Landscape Ontario’s presentations were augmented with the introduction of innovative presentations for municipal, public and private green space managers through partnership with the Ontario Parks Association and Communities in Bloom – Ontario. The 37th edition of this event is attributable to the generous support of our sponsors: Platinum: Ariens-Gravely, Banas Stones, Gold: Chrysler Canada, StoneArch/Global Arch, Via

Rail Canada, Silver: Doubletree Toronto Airport Hilton, Landscape Trades, Turf Revolution, Bronze: Bobcat, Radisson Suite Hotel Toronto Airport, Sittler Environmental, Vermeer Canada and Zen Spa. The interest generated a year ago by municipal leaders and industry suppliers for the emerging green economy resulted in an even more interesting Green Forum. Ontario Parks Association partnered with Landscape Ontario, Communities in Bloom - Ontario, Porter Airlines and Via Rail Canada to host the Explorations pavilion, featuring leading green vendors and a capacity half-day program for political leaders and professional park managers. The Mayors’ Green Express featured two trains, one originating in Ottawa and one originating in Windsor, that transported area mayors and other elected officials to Toronto for a green conference, which celebrated, educated and advocated for Ontario’s parks and green spaces. Over 130 people attended, along with special guests, Toronto Mayor David Miller and Lawson Oates from the City of Toronto and Keith Kerman of New York City, along with more than 60 of Ontario’s municipal leaders. The number of exhibitors showed a dramatic increase over 2009, resulting in 613 versus 542 the previous year. Over 50 companies reserved exhibit space in the last month leading up to the show. The show reflected the return of the Canadian Fence Industry Association’s Fencecraft and introduction of the Ontario Parks Association’s trade show, Explorations. Congress now features four shows in one, and all under one roof to serve not only landscape contractors but allied trades, fence contractors, municipal, private and public green space professionals. Jan. 11 saw five concurrent events taking

place at the Doubletree Hotel: CLP Study Group, the 45th annual IPM Symposium, the Landscape Designers’ Conference, Irrigation Conference and the Ontario Parks Association’s 54th Annual Education Forum. This one-day event, with more than 400 attendees, now rivals any single day at Congress conferences. Congress Conference 2010 attracted approximately 900 individuals for the 32 sessions. Room capacities were reached for most sessions, which is a clear indication that Landscape Ontario’s Prosperity Partnership program addressing the pillars of business excellence is satisfying the business and education needs of its membership. The Equipment Dealer Forum, featuring Jim Paluch and the generous sponsorship by Ariens, was enjoyed by more than 50 people on Jan. 13. Another Zero Waste certificate was awarded to Congress 2010. The report indicated that 139 trees were saved, 635 cubic yard of landfill diverted and over 3.69 tons of greenhouse gases were offset. Exhibitors and attendees alike are to be commended for the efforts in green meeting management.

Summary I take this opportunity to thank the LO staff, volunteers and committee members for their forward thinking and ability to hold new visions that make our trade shows relevant and valuable to our membership today and in the future. It is a pleasure to collaborate with this hard working committee in helping to keep both Congress and Expo in prominent positions on the list of North America’s leading horticultural trade shows. Respectfully submitted, Brian Lofgren Chair, 2009-2010

Education, Training and Human Resource Development Education and Labour Development remained a high priority for 2010. Aligning with the five pillars of Prosperity Partners, all professional development opportunities were designed to help business owners, managers and technicians embark on the journey towards prosperity. The focus continues on long term human resource development by working with partners to develop and sustain a skilled work force for the future. The department’s short- and long-term

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Certification underwent changes.

human resource development strategies included the delivery of comprehensive offerings, including seminars, conferences, symposia, chapter education, endorsed supplier network, Landscape Ontario resource booth at trade shows, web education, certification, apprenticeship support, post-secondary curriculum support, skills development, Safety Groups and resources.

Certification: • Continue to expand and be recognized within the industry and the public with increased tender packages requiring Certified staff to undertake the work. • Increased access and availability as written tests are offered regularly at all trade shows, Canada Blooms and some Chapters throughout the year. • Certification testing celebrated 35 new Landscape Industry Certified Technicians (CLT), two new Certified Landscape Designers (CLD), and 17 new Landscape Industry Certified Managers (CLP) for Ontario. • Almost 200 candidates are in progress with only a few stations remaining, before they achieve their designation. • Specialist High Skills Major Secondary students continued to challenge the test this year, representing themselves and their schools very well. • Practical tests were offered at Kemptville College in the Ottawa Chapter and at LO head office in Milton. • Additional test sites are expected in London and Windsor in the near future, as more postsecondary students begin to test within their curriculums.

Apprenticeship: • Continue to work with MTCU to expand program and remove barriers to entry. • Partnered with Microskills Women’s Services Community Development Centre and Humber College Pre-apprenticeship program as the employer and industry connection. • Supported provincial curriculum and exam revision • Supported final Red Seal Apprenticeship curriculum development and exam bank development. • Promoting apprenticeship throughout the province at the secondary (OYAP) and postsecondary levels. • Landscape Ontario became trainer to an apprenticeship student who undertook the property maintenance tasks at the head office. • Attended The Canadian Council of the Directors of Apprenticeship (CCDA), strengthening Red Seal consultations and debating the potential change to testing. Consideration is being given to offer different testing styles for the Certificate of Qualification to meet the needs of the trades.

Skills Ontario–Canada: • LO staff worked closely with both the secondary and post-secondary committees and on site at the competitions, serving as members of the provincial and national technical committees and as judges. • Landscape Ontario was the proud provincial host representative for the 2010 Canadian Skills Competition (post-secondary schools).

Safety Group and SCIP: • Offer industry-specific safety programs across

the province to guide employers to develop a safety culture through policies and procedures that comply with WSIB and the Ministry of Labour. • 2009 Landscape Ontario Safety Group was very successful with a strong rebate total of over $70,000 returned among the performing 24 participating firms. • Safety Council met two to three times a year to discuss safety strategies and pending regulation amongst WSIB, MOL, WSPS, ORCGA, MTO, etc. • With the support of these members, and the leadership of WSPS, we are in the midst of building a comprehensive web-based resource tool that will aid employers in understanding what compliance looks like and the gaps that they need to work on within their firms. • WSIB piloted a program for new businesses and new owners within SCIP. • Staff supported several firms undergoing Work Well audits. • Landscape Ontario now has representation on the WSPS Advisory Board, representing the industry.

Professional Development • The Professional Development seminars for 2009/2010 were very successful, attracting over 1,900 participants in the 220 seminars. • The on-the-job training program continues to develop with a train-the-trainer program. • Various symposia were developed and presented to the industry. • Snow and Ice Symposium, in partnership with OPA and MEOA at Kitchener Auditorium, saw great success in September. • The Garden Centre Symposium, in conjunction with Expo 2010, had good attendance and wonderful speakers. • Interior Plantscape Symposium was also held in conjunction with Expo 2010. • IPM Symposia in four locations were well attended • The first Lighting Symposium, launched in February 2010, was a sellout event. • Congress conferences included a pre-trade show symposium series, including the landscape designers’ conference, CLP seminar and irrigation conference. All were very successful and well attended. • 32 Congress conferences had over 800 attendees. • The Awards program continued to evolve with an increased participation from members, as we celebrated the highest number of submissions to date.

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Specialist High Skills Major programs The Specialist High Skills Major program allows students to focus on a career path that matches their individual skills and interests. Each major is a bundle of six to 12 courses in a selected field, such as horticulture and landscaping. Students who choose a major, learn on the job with employers, as well as in school and can earn valuable industry certification. Students, who complete a major, will leave high school confident that they are prepared with the knowledge, skills, and industry-recognized qualifications desired by employers, post-secondary education and apprenticeship programs.

This past year LO: • Supported the specialist program expansion and teacher training • Increased experiential learning with SHSM and green industry students at Canada Blooms and trial gardens • In 2009/ 2010, 24 secondary schools offered the SHSM. • Continue to support HOSTA secondary school teachers

Post-secondary program support: • Assisted post-secondary institutions with curriculum revision and development to ensure relevancy to the industry • Circulation of the Deloitte Report: The Impact of Ornamental Horticulture on Canada’s Economy, to promote the need for more graduates to compensate for the projected skilled labour shortage.

Role of Education Review Committee Development of the Professional Development and Education Review Committee chair Richard Rogers CLT, reviewed the results of Landscape Ontario’s education offerings to the trade. This includes chapters, sector groups, winter workshops, Congress conferences, symposia, Green Trade Expo, webinars. Recommendations from this committee have benefitted members greatly and can be seen in the 2010 /2011 Professional Development Guide. The new format is easy to navigate, facilitating a much easier decision process when it comes to professional development and the steps needed to continue on the journey of prosperity.

Long term human resource plan Michael Pascoe CLT developed the committee which will respond to the mandate, “To review Landscape Ontario’s role and interaction with education, including the educational aspects that affect primary, secondary, post-secondary

and industry programs, including apprenticeship and certification.” This committee will begin work in the fall of 2010. Long term human resource development involvement includes: • Attended Canadian Horticulture Sector Labour Strategy for Vision 2016. • Mission: “To develop a strategy to address labour challenges in the horticulture sector…” • Outcomes: Three task forces were created based on priorities that included career awareness and promotion, business and technical skills development and innovation. • Landscape Ontario is represented on the first two task forces. The Education and Labour Development department looks forward to continuing to strive towards partnering with stakeholders and industry to develop the prosperity journey, and to develop a sustainable skilled workforce for the future. Respectfully submitted, Sally Harvey CLT, CLP Manager, Education and Labour Development Team

Environmental Stewardship Committee Chair: Nathan Helder Vice-chair: Chris Le Conte Members: Susan Antler, Hugh Berry, Scott Bryk, Sean James, Allan Kling CLP, John Lamberink CIT, Jennifer Llewellyn, Bob McCannell, Tim Miotto, James Solecki, Anna van Maris, Art Vanden Eden CHTR, Alan White, Alex Zalewski CLT The year 2009/2010 was a very successful one for the Environmental Stewardship Committee. The Green for Life Award was created to promote, recognize and reward environmentally responsible companies in the horticulture, landscape construction and design industry. Winners were drawn from participants completing the Environmental Scorecard. The event received over 472 entries, including 287 from Ontario alone. Participants scored an average of 75.3 per cent nationally and 70.3 per cent in Ontario. Since the launch of the Scorecard in April 2009, the committee has continued to develop aware-

ness and change to greener solutions. The Scorecard has initiated inquiries from the U.S. and Canada. At this point the scorecard is simply a self-scoring tool, however, the committee will use the information to develop content for a future environmental manual, educational programs and a possible green accreditation program. The committee has continually encouraged environmental stewardship to the greater LO membership, via articles on environmental initiatives by committee members, having the Scorecard made available at Congress 2010, displaying the Green for Life Award winners at Canada Blooms, and by developing LO winter workshops and seminars. This is a constant goal for the committee, while understanding that change takes time. Landscape Ontario and the Environmental Stewardship Committee have been involved in many activities and initiatives. They include development of an anti-idling campaign, which will include educational components for horticultural operations; reduce the juice program, native tree atlas project, Smart about Salt Program, water conservation initiative, Green Infrastructure Coalition, Ontario Water Conservation Alliance, Greening Highways Project, Conservation Halton Initiative’s Wetlands Best Practices, Schoolyard Greening, and Gilda’s. More recently, several of the committee members have been involved with the City of Toronto, as it seeks to be a world leader in urban sustainability. The City has adopted a climate change, clean air and sustainable energy strategy and an emission reduction strategy for outdoor power equipment used in its parks and landscape maintenance. Toronto officials will be working with Landscape Ontario to develop and implement a province-wide accreditation program for parks design and landscape maintenance professionals that will help to reduce air emissions and promote environmentally friendly best practices. Exciting times are ahead with this involvement! I would like to recognize my fellow committee members, LO and CNLA staff for their dedication and contributions, and look forward to work with them in the coming year. Respectfully submitted, Nathan Helder Chair 2009-2010

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation Chair: John Wright Members: Bob Allen, Brian Cocks CLT, Hank Gelderman CLT, Ben Kobes, John Peets, Mike Thomas, Marc Thiebaud, Dave Turnbull, Neil Vanderkruk, Monica van Maris, Bob Wilton The Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation is the research and scholarship arm of Landscape Ontario. The Foundation’s mandate is to ensure a healthy future for the horticultural industry. This is achieved through financial support of research and scholarships made possible from the interest generated on capital investments. The capital in the Foundation has continued to grow, despite very little organized fundraising. Most of the funds are generated through association events and activities. The Foundation would like to thank donors. Donations received this year are from: Bill DeLuca, Lesley De Repentigyn, Harold Dickert, Marie Dickert, Gertrude Ersele, Christel Gores, Jodie Gray, Michael Gregorasz, J. Gwisdek, Clare Hermann, Willi Hessenthaler, Ann Jakins, Jacinthe Karle, Joerg Leiss, Jean-Pierre Miroux, Nanthan Paramanthanb, Frank Schenk, Wilfred Schreiber, Mary Silk, Maria Spinda, Mario Stellator, Margaret Stoikoff, Mejjrd Thiebaud, Monica van Maris, Karen Weyermann, Maria Wickert, Jackie Woods, Patrician Worgan and John Wright; businesses: A-1 Landscape, Agrium, Beaver Valley, Bird Creek Developing, Brownridge Greenhouses and Nursery, Canadian Nursery Landscape Association, Cameron Landscaping, Connon Nurseries/NVK, D & R Mazza Landscape, Denbok Landscaping, Eastbrooke Contracting, Echo Power Equipment (Canada), Enviroscape, Forecast Landscaping, Forever Green Consulting, Forever Green Lawn and Landscape, Garden Holistics, Ginkgo Landscape, Golden Horseshoe Chapter, Green Masters Landscaping, GunnDuncan Landscaping, Halton Hills Quilters, Hank Deenen Landscaping, Hirsig Landscapes, J. Garfield Thompson, Kubota Canada, Maitland & Maitland, Man-o-sa Landscaping, O.J. Muller Landscape, Oaks Concrete, Paysagement Trillium, Quality Fertilizers, Redbud Supply, Sheridan Nurseries, Stihl Ltd., The Investment Guild, Timm Enterprises, Underhill Landscape, Vanden Bussche Irrigation, Vanhof & Blokker, Wood’s Lawn and Landscape, Yorkshire Garden Services and Zimmerman Bros. Providing scholarships is particularly close to the hearts of Foundation supporters. They

point with pride to the many recipients who are now successful industry members. This year, we distributed $21,500 in scholarships to students enrolled in horticultural programs across the province. The Foundation is especially pleased to encourage high school students to enter the landscape industry. By offering scholarship opportunities, we help them begin their careers. The new scholarship program ‘Scholarships for New High School Graduates’ has been very successful. Congratulations to this year’s recipients Post Secondary Scholarship ($1,000): Marcel Bombardier, St. Clair Laura Caddy, Niagara Parks Sarah Gregory, Fanshawe Ethan Langerak, Niagara College Shawn MacMillan, Algonquin Sean May, University of Guelph Krista Palmer, Seneca Robyn Read, Algonquin Luke Serbina, Niagara Parks Henry Sikkema, Niagara College Becky Smith, Fanshawe Horticulturalist ($500): Dennis Watt, Seneca High School Scholarship ($1,000): Sharla Bernard, Alqonquin Vicki Kennedy, Fanshawe Mathew Lachcik, Humber Thomas Messore, Niagara Parks Milan Pandey, Humber Brianne Prentice, Ryerson Melissa Spearing, Niagara Parks High School Scholarship (Apprenticeship) ($1,000) Jakeob Daoust, Humber Casey van Maris Memorial Scholarship ($1,000) Tyler Garrard, Fanshawe Tony DiGiovanni Scholarship ($1,000) Ty Baynton, Fanshawe At Congress 2010, the Foundation hosted the Legacy Lounge for the pioneers of the industry. Approximately 50 pioneers visited the lounge to talk about old times, what is taking place now in the industry and what they hope to see happen in the future. It was a way to thank them for their contribution to the industry. This year, the Foundation invited the Chapter Board and Industry Sector Group - approximately 20 members - to visit the lounge. It was a friendly spot

to sit, relax, talk with others and enjoy refreshments. The Foundation thanks the following companies who sponsored the Legacy lounge: Agrium Agri CNLA Echo Power Equipment (Canada) Oaks Concrete (Brampton Brick) Kubota Canada Connon/NVK Redbud Supply Beaver Valley Stihl Vanden Bussche Irrigation

Research programs The Foundation has also contributed to numerous research programs. In 2010, the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation contributed a total of $107,736.61 to the following projects: • University of Guelph, $17,778, taxonomy and digital identification of insects • University of Guelph, $18,750, Leaf and stem diseases of boxwood • University of Guelph, $17,244, Steam and Solarisation as alternatives to herbicides in ornamental and turf plantings • Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation, $16,700, Stimulating host defenses for control of turfgrass diseases • Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation, $5,000, irrigation protocols and over-seeding rates for pesticide-free soccer fields • Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation, $5,000, Biological control of crabgrass • University of Guelph, $7,000, Digital identification of nursery pests • Vineland Research, $20,264.61, Functional biopesticides for the lawn care industry.

Fundraising programs • In Memoriam card for members to contribute a memorial gift to help support the Ontario’s horticulture industry. Donations receive a charitable tax receipt. • Donation cards for members and others to contribute to sustain Ontario’s horticulture industry through research and scholarships. Donations receive a charitable tax receipt. • Leave a Legacy — Sustain the industry you love donation card allowing members to leave a contribution to the Foundation through their estate.

New fundraising program A raffle is being developed to commence midNovember of 2010. Tickets will be sold for $20 each, with only 1,000 tickets printed. The three cash prizes are $5,000, $1,000 and $500. The winning tickets will be drawn on Thurs., Jan.

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010 13, at 4 p.m. in the Foundation booth during Congress. The winner is not required to be present during the draw. Thank you to all the members of the Foundation for their efforts and participation. Respectfully submitted John Wright Chair 2009/2010

IPM Symposium Chair: Mark Goodman Committee members: Jeff Lowartz, Doug Smith, Rohan Harrison and Tim Cradduck As I look back to our 2010 IPM Symposium, what I remember so well is that our committee accomplished what we set out to do. It was our 45th symposium, and was entitled, ‘Roots of Success.’ With one year of the provincial pesticide bylaw behind us, our value from the four symposia was reached with the great amount of sharing in which all of us engaged. The open forum showed that we are professionals in our field of turf and landscape management. For all who attended any of the symposia, I wish to express my thanks. And, a special note of appreciation to all our sponsors of the 2010 symposium held in four cities across the province. Thanks, also, to everyone who filled out the comment form. Lastly, the symposium would not be as successful without the awesome committee members. Welcome Rohan Harrison and Tim Cradduck. We are very excited to welcome everyone to the 2011 event. We the attendees receive great value at this year’s event, and enjoy many of the great changes at the event. This year we have decided to offer only one symposium, instead of the four last year. This year’s event will take place on Jan. 10, at the Toronto Congress Centre’s Cohen Ballroom With new products and tools, the symposium is sure to deliver the necessary nuggets to start the year off right. Respectfully submitted, Mark Goodman Chair 2009-2010

Membership Recruitment and Retention Chair: Warren Patterson Members: Hank Gelderman CLT, Brian Lofgren, Frans Peters, Michael Van Dongen, David Wright CLP This committee’s responsibility is to oversee the programs and processes which relate to providing exceptional value and service to the members. Specifically this includes: • Design and coordinate a membership recruitment and retention campaign. • Review communication methods and strategies used to make members aware of the benefits and programs of LO/CNLA. • Review, improve and promote membership benefit programs. Goals for 2011: • Engage and connect with suppliers to help promote LO to their clients and customers. • Work with local suppliers to create discounts for LO members. • Simplify approach to becoming a member. • Improve the effectiveness and efficiency of recruitment and retention of members through the use of technology. Goals pursued in 2009 – 2010 fiscal year: • Membership drive at Congress 2010. • Invite suppliers to our events and attend supplier run events. • One-on-one recruitment. Encourage members to recruit new members. Respectfully submitted, Warren Patterson Chair 2010

Pesticide Industry Council Chair: John Wright Secretary: Tony DiGiovanni CLT Manager PIC-PTP: Tom Somerville Members: Stephen Bodsworth, Gavin Dawson, James Doyle, Michael Goldman, Wanda Michalowicz, Colin Nisbet, Darcy Olds, Dave Price, Charles Zubovitz In 2000, the Ontario Ministry of Environment

(MOE) implemented new requirements under the Pesticide Act (originally Ontario Regulation 914). Under the new requirements, anyone who applied pesticides must either be licensed, or have technician status. The new regulation required that all unlicensed assistants working with licensed exterminators must complete a basic pesticide safety course to acquire technician status in order to legally apply pesticides. The Pesticide Technician Program (PTP) was then established as the basic pesticide safety course to acquire technician status and meet the new requirements. The PTP is a basic two-part safety program that incorporates both a practical component and an academic exam in the training requirements. The Pesticide Industry Council (PIC) was formed on behalf of the pesticide industry by the Lawn Care Commodity Group to implement the requirements. PIC has worked with the Ministry of Environment (MOE) since the year 2000 to meet the requirements and administer the Pesticide Technician Program. Landscape Ontario is the administrator of the Pesticide Technician Program on behalf of the MOE, under the guidance of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The Pesticide Industry Council (PIC) has representation from Hydro One, Canadian Golf Superintendents Association, Ontario Golf Superintendents Association, Professional Lawn Care Association of Ontario, Urban Pest Management Council, Crop Protection Institute, International Society of Arboriculture, Ontario Parks Associations, Ontario Vegetation Management Association, Structural Pest Management Association and Landscape Ontario. Last year the Cosmetic Pesticides Ban Act, 2009 was passed. The new regulations amended the Pesticides Act to prohibit the use and sale of pesticides that may be used for cosmetic purposes. This new pesticide regulation has had a significant effect on the whole landscape industry, especially the lawn care industry, as well as PIC. As a result of this new regulation, the number of people enrolling in the Pesticide Technician Program (PTP) has been significantly lower. In addition, the program training material had to be significantly changed to reflect the new law. Under the new regulation, those wanting to apply the control products still had to be licensed under the PTP, and still needed the PIC to remain in business. The numbers of technicians enrolling in the PTP have dropped from 1,200 in the years up to the passing of the new regulation. Than last year, they increased from 800 the year before the new law was first passed, jumping to

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

975 this year, 2010. To date, the total number of technicians who have enrolled in the PTP through the PIC is 11,500. There were 10 new people who became qualified PIC Accredited Examiners for a total to-date of 656. Financially, for 2010, PIC was in positive territory. The Pesticide Industry Council has been working with the MOE this year to change the PTP training and testing material to reflect new regulation. The Technician Training Manual, log book and the question bank now reflect the new regulations. In addition to working with the MOE to change the training materials to reflect the new regulations for technicians, PIC also enacted a re-training program for examiners. All existing accredited PIC examiners need to take a refresher course this year to renew their PIC examiner status. Re-accreditation of examiners included a webinar that detailed the implications of the regulation change of the Examiner Code of Ethics. Members of Pesticide Technician Advisory Council (PTAC) who have contributed significantly to changing the PTP training materials to reflect the changes in the Cosmetic Pesticides Ban Act, include Wanda Michalowicz, Crystal LaFrance and Suzanne Durst from the MOE, John Wright, Tom Somerville from the PIC, and Gary VanderHeide, Gerald Vander Ploeg from PIRC. Respectfully submitted, John Wright Chair 2000-2010

Prosperity Partners Chair: Bob Tubby CLP Members: Gerald Boot CLP, Bill DeLuca, Hank Gelderman CLT, Jacki Hart CLP,

Michael Van Dongen, Ryan Heath CLP, CLT, Mark Fisher, Tim Kearney CLP The launch of our new member initiative is a success that we celebrate from the past year’s efforts. Now all new active association members must attend the Build Your Prosperity seminar as a requirement to obtain full membership status. The Prosperity Partners program has also created a common language for all who engage in the journey. It’s a language which encourages common thinking around determining business gaps, using a framework to assess and fill gaps, and adopting various program tricks and techniques to better balance work with life away from work. This year, the Committee decided to suspend delivery of the Best Practices and Round Table seminars, due to low uptake. We have replaced them with an endorsement of independent online programs. One of these programs launches Jan. 1, 2011. Clarity for the Boss is a program offering 26 concise learning modules all of which are targeted at improving the effectiveness of people, processes and results in your business. This online business owner training program is discounted to Landscape Ontario members, and provides comprehensive, hands-on, sustainable solutions to manage people, engagement, interaction and change. Clarity for the Boss has been developed by the same team who developed our Prosperity Partners program: Jacki Hart, president of Water’s Edge Landscaping, and Sharon Gilmour Glover of Jump-Point. This team has been the driving force behind the Prosperity Partners seminar content, pillar development and journey support for our members over the past several years. The program supports the pillars of Leadership, Professional Operations and Developing Loyalty. This year also saw another online Prosperity

Partners support program to help our members in their journey. Landscape Management Network is owned by Landscape Ontario member Mark Bradley of The Beach Gardener. Mark brings his entire business system to our members, also leveraging the convenience of online access. The LMN seminar series, which was presented at various LO chapters and in LO’s home office in Milton was a huge success. It has brought hundreds of Landscape Ontario member businesses leaps and bounds ahead on their journey to prosperity. The Landscape Management Network assists with filling gaps in the areas of Professional Operations, Sales Success and Financial Health. The Prosperity Partner program continues to support yet another active member, Jay Murray, TLC Landscaping, who has brought an outstanding due-diligence tool for health and safety training: LS Training System. This online resource supports Professional Operations and Leadership. Other endorsed consultants, who align with the principles of the Prosperity Partners program, can be found on the consultants page at www.horttrades.com/prosperity. LO president Tom Intven has identified the theme of his presidential term as Prosperity Through Engagement. As a committee, we are working hard to make this barrier-free and convenient to our members by thinking outside of our usual professional development methods, and linking members to members, and members to proven, accessible resources. Your journey to prosperity starts by leveraging the great resources and language we have established with this program. I hope you choose to look into what we have created, and that you choose to start your journey with prosperity through engagement. Respectfully submitted Bob Tubby CLP Chair 2009 – 2010

2010 Volunteers Abate Wori Abate Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Randy Adams RM Adams Trucking Robert Adams Adams Landscaping and Property Maintenance Stacey Adams Cap Brick Bob Allen RW Allen Horticultural Services

Sheila Allin Creative Gardens and Waterscapes Chris Andrews Ian Andrews Greenwood Interlock Susan Antler Composting Council of Canada Vince Arone Pinpoint GPS Solutions Lynne Barnes Gordon J Leece Landscapes

Jim Bauer Bauer Landscape and Garden Maintenance Joel Beatson CLP CNLA Scott Beaudoin Manchester Products Judy Bell Treefrog Design Barry Benjamin Barry Benjamin and Associates Pamela Bingham LUNA

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010 Adam Bonin CLT Garden Wizard Gerald Boot CLP Boot’s Landscaping and Maintenance Neil Bouma Picture Perfect Landscaping Quinte Gerwin Bouman Stam Nurseries Mark Bradley The Beach Gardener Dave Braun Braun Nursery Paul Brydges Brydges Landscape Architecture John Buikema Gelderman Landscaping Phil Bull Green Leaf Gardening and Property Services Cor Bultena Eloquip Richard Burch CIT, CLP, CLT Burch Landscape Services Chris Burns CLT Clintar Landscape Management - Ottawa Daryl Bycraft CHTR, CLT Bycraft Gardens Cheryl Campbell Custom Rock Creations Diana Cassidy-Bush CLP Fresh Landscape and Garden Solutions Laura Catalano Nisco National Leasing Harry Chang Humber College Phil Charal Allweather Landscape Pam Charbonneau Ontario Ministry of Agriculture Don Chase CLD Seferian Design Group Terry Childs Nature’s Way Landscaping Brian Clegg Allweather Landscape Dan Clost CHTR Connon Nurseries/CBV Brian Cocks CLT Brian Cocks Nursery and Landscaping Douglas Coote DG Coote Enterprises Tim Cradduck Turf Revolution Tim Cruickshanks Cruickshanks Property Services Gavin Dawson GreenLawn Ltd - Toronto West Carl De Boer CLT Whispering Pines Landscaping Brian de Caluwe CIT BDC Irrigation Systems Harry De Vries V Kraus Nurseries Lexi Dearborn A Dearborn Designs

Mike DeBoer CLT Gelderman Landscaping Harold Deenen CLP Hank Deenen Landscaping Paul DeGroot Connon Nurseries/NVK Dave DeVries Meyer by Westbrook Phil Dickie Fast Forest Barry Dickson BR Dickson Equipment Charlie Dobbin Garden Solutions by Charlie Dobbin Paul Doornbos CLT, CLP Thornbusch Landscaping Lindsay Drake Nightingale Yorkshire Garden Services Alan Driedger AWS Irrigation Management Tim Dyer Kings Creek Trees Beth Edney CLD Designs By The Yard Stacy Elliott Bradley’s Insurance David Emms Midhurst Property Service Janet Ennamorato Creative Garden Designs Patrick Evangelisto Compliance Safety Solutions Carmine Filice CLP Greentario Landscaping Mark Fisher The Escarpment Company Lorraine Flanigan Carol Fulford Gerrits Property Services John Fulford Gerrits Property Services Belinda Gallagher Dan Garlatti Garlatti Landscaping Paul Gaspar Weed Man - Toronto Andrew Gaydon Vanden Bussche Irrigation Derek Geddes Coldstream Land Escape Company Hank Gelderman CLT Gelderman Landscaping Harry Gelderman Gelderman Landscaping Kara Gibbons The Toro Company Jeff Gilberds CLP, CLT Clintar Landscape Management Gillian Glazer John Deere Landscapes Sabrina Goettler CLP Oriole Landscaping Mark Goodman Enviroking Lawn Care Chris Graham Kimberley Cottage Garden

Earle Graham Lakelands Irrigation Jeff Gregg V Kraus Nurseries Perry Grobe Grobe Nursery and Garden Centre Peter Guinane Oriole Landscaping Jerry Hakkers Sifton Properties Grant Harrison CLT Escapes Outdoor Living Designs Rohan Harrison Premier Turf Jacki Hart CLP Water’s Edge Landscaping Walter Hasselman Dutchman’s Landscaping Carl Hastings Arbordale Landscaping/ Moonstruck Landscape Lighting John Hawkes Wayside Garden Market and Groundskeeping Mike Hayes Allgreen Tree Service Jennifer Hayman Jennifer Hayman Design Group Ryan Heath CLP, CLT Ryan Heath Professional Landscaping Nathan Helder Gelderman Landscaping Edward Hewis Ground Control Contracting John Hewson CLP Greenscape Lawn Maintenance John Higo Turf Care Products Canada Sonja Hirsig CLT Hirsig Landscapes Barry Hordyk Shademaster Landscaping Leon Hordyk Moonshadow Lighting Martin Horsman Gelderman Landscaping Judith Humphries CLD A Garden For All Seasons Mark Humphries Direct Landscape Supply Jan Hunter Hunter Home and Garden Tom Intven Canadale Nurseries Sean James Fern Ridge Landscaping Alistair Johnston Strybos Barron King Joan Johnston Peter Knippel Nursery Kennedy Johnston CLT Peter Knippel Nursery Sarah Johnston Greenlife Raymond Josephian Nightscaping Nicola Kamp

Tim Kearney CLP Garden Creations of Ottawa Patrick Kehoe Beaudry Contracting Robert Kennaley McLauchlin and Associates Hella Keppo CLT Stems Interior Landscaping Christoph Kessel OMAFRA Alice Klamer Blue Sky Nursery Karl Klinck Orchard Farm Nursery Allan Kling CLP Urban Garden Supply Ben Kobes Kobes Nurseries Jeff Koopmans Sheridan Nurseries Ron Koudys CLD Fanshawe College Terry Kowalski Kowalski Landscaping Robert Kuepfer Fafard Erik Kuijvenhoven Lynden Lawn Care John Lamberink CIT Aquality Irrigation and Illumination Marty Lamers Atlas Block Michael LaPorte CLT Clearview Nursery Chas Lawton CHTR, CIT Taylor Nursery Chris Le Conte Smart Watering Systems Jeffrey Lee Lee’s Landscaping Tom Leedle CLT Landscaping by Leedle Shannon Lindensmith Georgina Garden Centre Jennifer Llewellyn OMAFRA Brian Lofgren Horta-Craft Anthony Lombardi CLD, CLP Dr. Landscape Russel Loney Loney Landscaping Jeff Lowartz CLT Heritage Green Landscape Contractors Arvils Lukss Landscapes By Lucin Glen Lumis University of Guelph Mike Lunau CLP, CLT Eden Gardenworks Mike Lysecki Landscape Management Network Steve Macartney CIT, CLT Raintree Irrigation and Outdoor Systems Cory MacCallum CIT Greenscape Watering Systems

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Chris Mace Leaside Landscaping Scott MacKenzie MacKenzie Irrigation Services Len Mancini Holland Park Garden Gallery Brian Marsh Earth Art Landscapes Ken Martin Copper Expressions Landscape Lighting and Design Shannon Martin Van Horik’s Greenhouses Gabriel Matamoros Garden Holistics Bob McCannell McCannell Consulting Jim McCracken Garden Gallery Mike McGrath CLT Heritage Green Landscape Contractors Jeff McMann CLT Town of Markham Burke McNeill Don McQueen CIT Nutri-Lawn - Burlington Norm Mills The Gardenin’ Guy Christine Moffit Christine’s Touch Gardening Hank Mollema TerraPro Corporation Jim Monk Markham Property Services John Moons Connon Nurseries/NVK Garry Moore University of Windsor Bruce Morton CLP, CIT Greenscape Watering Systems Jodie Munshaw CLD Reeves Florist and Nursery Jay Murray CLP TLC Professional Landscaping David Nemeth Elm Landscaping Terry Nicholson CLT Clintar Landscape Management John O’Leary CLT Clintar Landscape Management Paul Olsen Brookdale Treeland Nurseries Peter Olsen Royal City Nursery Keith Osborne Gro-Bark (Ontario) Mark Ostrowski Laurel Forest Farms Nino Papa Santerra Stonecraft Nanthakumar Paramanathan Warren Patterson Botanix - Barrie’s Garden Centre Michelle Peeters Baseline Nursery John Peets John Peets Landscaping

Fiona Penn Zieba Fiona’s Garden Gate John Perriman Mountview Services Frans Peters Humber Nurseries David Pierce Unilock Nick Pisano National Research Council Richard Portelance Cypress Hill Design and Build Fred Post CLD Holland Park Garden Gallery Chris Power Bellaire Landscape Fred Prescod CLT Plan It With Plants Sian Pritchard The Cutting Garden Chuck Pronger Watergardens Unlimited Don Prosser CLD Don Prosser Landscape Design Bill Putzer M. Putzer Hornby Nursery John Putzer M. Putzer Hornby Nursery Richard Reed Dufferin Lawn Life Susan Richards New North Greenhouses Jay Rivait Top Grade Landscape and Garden Solutions Darren Rodrigues Sinclair-Cockburn Insurance Brokers Richard Rogers CLT RJ Rogers Landscaping Mike Ross Rain Bird International Robert Roszell Road Equipment Links Gregg Salivan Salivan Landscape Greg Scarlett CLT Urban Landscape Solutions Stephen Schell CLT The Plant Lady Dale Schieck Ogilvie Daugherty Financial Services Dean Schofield Landmark Landscaping Todd Schwindt TS Benefit Solutions Haig Seferian CLD Seferian Design Group Frank Selles CLT Framar Landscape and Maintenance Contractors Tony Serwatuk CIT HydroSense Irrigation Design and Consulting Tony Sgambelluri Ridgeview Garden Centre Gord Shuttleworth Delaware Nursery

Klaas Sikkema Scott Sim CIT Turf Care Products Canada - London Arthur Skolnik Shibui Landscaping Jeff Smith Lynden Lawn Car Paul Snyders PGS Landscape James Solecki Integra Works Nick Solty Solty and Sons Fred Somerville Somerville Nurseries Melissa Spearing Ground Covers Unlimited Ted Spearing Ground Covers Unlimited Stuart Sprout Sprout’s Premium Earth Products Patricia Stanish CLD Patricia Stanish Landscape Design Karl Stensson Sheridan Nurseries David Stewart CLT Custom Lawn Care Gary Supp Turf Care Products Canada Stephen Sutcliffe Atlas Block Ron Swentiski CLD Trillium Associates Donald Tellier CLT St. Clair College Robert Tester TNT Property Maintenance Kevin Theriault Willow Landscape Marc Thiebaud OGS Grounds Maintenance Specialist Rene Thiebaud CLP OGS Landscape Services Mike Thomas The Investment Guild James Thompson J Garfield Thompson Landscape Jeff Thompson Native Plant Source Willem Tiemersma Willand Grounds Maintenance Peter Tigchelaar Urban Green Dave Tillaart Dutchmaster Nurseries Kyle Tobin LawnSavers Plant Health Care Koos Torenvliet Environmental Design Landscaping Contractors Rodger Tschanz University of Guelph Steve Tschanz Turf Management Systems Bob Tubby CLP Arbordale Landscaping/ Moonstruck Landscape Lighting David Turnbull CHTR David Turnbull and Associates

George Urvari Oriole Landscaping Phillip Van Alstyne CLT Michael Van Dongen Van Dongen’s Landscaping and Nurseries Anna van Maris Parklane Nurseries Monica van Maris Parklane Nurseries Bill Van Ryn Bill Van Ryn Weed Control Harry Van Staveren Van Staveren’s John van Staveren The Garden Shop Art Vanden Eden CHTR Sheridan Nurseries Jack VandeRee CLT Boot’s Landscaping and Maintenance Neil Vanderkruk Connon Nurseries Neil Vanderkruk Holdings Peter Vanderley CLP Pete Vanderley’s Lawn Maintenance and Landscape Alex Verbinnen Verbinnen’s Nursery Don Voorhees Noldus of Durham Bruce Warren Brookdale Treeland Nurseries Shane Warren Gelderman Landscaping Alan White Turf Systems Joe Willemse DiMarco Landscape Lighting Mark Williams Williams Nurseries Bruce Wilson Permacon Group Robert Wilton Clintar Landscape Management Jarrett Woodard Grand River Brick and Stone David Wright CLP Wright Landscape Services John Wright Wright Landscape Services Chuck Yates CIT Yates Custom Lawn Sprinklers Corey Yourkin Vanden Bussche Irrigation - King City Alex Zalewski CLT Parklane Nurseries Jason Zehr Rural Roots Landscaping Fiore Zenone Tumbleweed Landscape Contracting Helmut Zgraja Helmutz Interlock Youbin Zheng University of Guelph

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010â&#x20AC;&#x192;

AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGust 31, 2010

BALANCE SHEET

FUND ALLOCATIONS

2009 2010 Audited Audited Statements Statements Assets Cash 418,676 Investments 1,562,952 Accrued Interest 92,980 Accounts Receivable 1,655,588 Prepaid Expenses 662,419 Land/Building-Vineland Land/Building-Head Office 1,243,947 Total Assets 5,636,561

213,210 1,555,218 50,646 2,096,642 711,973 57,645 1,243,947 5,929,280

Liabilities & Surplus Accounts Payable 447,207 540,754 Accounts Payable-Garden Centre Group 11,788 10,093 Accounts Payable-Growers Group (9,925) (19,712) Accounts Payable-Ipm Symposium 15,322 18,691 Accounts Payable-Special Projects 81,377 12,089 Deferred Revenue 2,484,021 2,786,858 Hort. Centre Improvement Fund 881,151 898,010 Hort. Industry Development Fund 234,426 469,913 Technology Fund 24,367 5,320 Promotion Fund 8,692 10,483 Surplus-Members Equity 1,046,568 1,046,568 Net Income 411,567 150,215 Total Liabilities & Surplus 5,636,561 5,929,280

2009 2010 Audited Audited Statements Statements Horticultural Industry Development Fund Opening Balance 487,452 Expenditures (302,277) Industry Funding/Donations 49,250 Transfer From Net Income 373,567 Closing Balance 607,992

607,992 (138,079) 0 130,215 600,128

Horticultural Centre Improvement Fund Opening Balance 904,725 Expenditures (23,574) Industry Funding/Donations 0 Transfer From Net Income 18,000 Closing Balance 899,151

899,151 (53,891) 52,750 0 898,010

Technology Fund Opening Balance Expenditures Transfer From Net Income Closing Balance

36,709 (12,342) 0 24,367

24,367 (19,047) 10,000 15,320

Promotion Fund Opening Balance Expenditures Industry Funding/Donations Transfer From Net Income Closing Balance

24,986 (24,293) 8,000 20,000 28,692

28,692 (18,210) 0 10,000 20,483

INVESTMENTS

Province of Ontario coupon Province of Ontario coupon RES CIBC Int. Bank of Nova Scotia-GIC Royal Bank-GIC RES GE Capital Canada Bell Canada coupon Province of BC coupon Province of Quebec coupon BC Telus coupon Totals

Maturity Date Aug 7, 2016 Jan 13, 2020 Oct 13, 2014 Mar 9, 2010 Feb 7, 2011 Aug 17, 2017 Apr 15, 2019 Dec 18, 2018 Dec 1, 2021 Apr 8, 2022

Rate Of Opening Value Purchases Disposals Gain/Loss Realized Accrued Closing Value Market Return At Cost At Cost Disposals Interest On Interest At Cost Value Sep 1/09 Disposals Aug 31/10 Aug 31/10 Aug 31/10 4.33 % 271,349 271,349 125 4.43 % 158,455 158,544 3,218 4.45 % 501,791 501,791 9,557 1.40 % 400,000 400,000 5,600 3.20 % 231,269 231,269 9,248 5.10 % 316,970 316,970 24,568 5.16 % 491,318 21,671 491,318 552,258 4.20 % 491,318 17,639 491,318 525,328 4.79 % 300,046 10,907 300,046 320,350 4.79 % 272,537 429 272,537 270,272 1,562,952 1,872,188 1,872,922 37,467 14,848 50,646 1,555,218 1,668,208

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LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGust 31, 2010

INCOME STATEMENT - GENERAL 2009 Audited Statements Revenue Rent Administration Fees Earned Interest Gains/Losses-Investments Information Technology/Web Fees Miscellaneous Total Revenue

128,593 122,873 57,977 29,244 10,424 329,283 678,393

Expenses - Administrative Expenses Property Taxes Telephone Hydro Heat Maintenance-Yard Maintenance-Building Office Supplies Office Equipment Computer Equip/Software Information Technology/Web Exps Postage Courier Audit Legal Fees Advertising Insurance Expense Meeting Expense Travel Dues & Subscriptions Donations Training (Staff) Miscellaneous Expenses Bank Charges & Interest (Gain)Loss On Foreign Exchange Total Expenses

47,309 40,606 39,634 29,193 46,075 87,326 28,021 11,549 19,688 20,054 13,001 5,023 15,950 8,100 1,545 16,433 22,382 60,100 8,649 3,168 7,021 12,920 51,346 (5,069) 590,024

Compensation Wages Benefits Source Deductions Total Compensation

1,641,007 132,774 95,338 1,869,120

Total Expenses

2,459,143

Net Income (Loss) (1,780,751) Wage Allocations 1,276,942 Overhead Allocations 654,509 Net Income (Loss) Net Of Allocations 150,700

2010 Audited Statements 118,747 121,219 60,730 37,467 8,633 176,865 523,661 42,552 39,373 36,753 23,896 37,464 86,281 30,418 7,390 11,136 22,331 12,587 6,273 16,775 3,746 1,538 16,024 18,025 66,346 8,759 1,692 7,080 12,671 55,813 (486) 564,437

2010 Revised Budgets 120,000 122,000 60,000 1,000 9,000 1,000 313,000 55,000 40,000 38,000 30,000 45,000 75,000 30,000 15,000 15,000 24,000 15,000 5,000 15,500 1,000 1,000 16,000 21,000 58,000 10,000 3,000 6,000 13,000 50,250 1,000 582,750

1,637,928 1,666,127 128,121 135,000 91,343 98,000 1,857,392 1,899,127 2,421,828 2,481,877 (1,898,167) (2,168,877) 1,271,249 627,121 203

2011 Revised Budgets 115,000 78,000 60,000 1,000 9,000 1,000 264,000 50,000 40,000 40,000 30,000 45,000 80,000 26,000 10,000 10,000 22,000 15,000 6,000 16,000 1,000 1,500 16,000 18,000 52,000 10,000 3,000 5,000 15,000 53,000 1,000 565,500

2012 Proposed Budgets 115,000 78,000 60,000 1,000 9,000 1,000 264,000 50,000 40,000 40,000 30,000 45,000 80,000 26,000 10,000 10,000 22,000 15,000 6,000 16,000 1,000 1,500 16,000 18,000 52,000 10,000 3,000 5,000 15,000 53,000 1,000 565,500

1,638,000 1,638,000 100,000 100,000 98,000 98,000 1,836,000 1,836,000 2,401,500 2,401,500 (2,137,500) (2,137,500)

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010â&#x20AC;&#x192;

AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGust 31, 2010

INCOME STATEMENT - MEMBERSHIP SERVICES 2009 Audited Statements Revenue Membership Dues Awards Of Excellence Merchandise Referral Fees Total Revenue Expenses - General CNLA Membership Dues Member Subscriptions Awards Of Excellence Membership Plaques Annual Report Merchandise Membership Campaign Membership Booth Promotion-Members Promotion-Canada Blooms Promotion-Gfl/Branding Total Expenses - General Chapters & Sector Groups Windsor London Golden Horseshoe Waterloo Ottawa Toronto Georgian Lakelands Durham Upper Canada Growers Lawn Care Garden Centre Landscape Contractors Grounds Maintenance Designers Irrigation Interiorscape Snow & Ice Landscape Lighting Total Chapters & Sector Expenses Total Expenses

929,552 30,027 8,071 53,386 1,021,036 259,286 88,000 85,979 6,444 3,167 2,252 0 11,328 111,350 567,806 2,218 6,063 5,141 7,054 6,238 10,951 6,654 5,947 3,257 2,493 1,449 1,461 614 1,072 4,186 (3,004) 7,169 944 296 70,203 638,009

Net Income (Loss) 383,028 Wage Allocations (467,477) Overhead Allocations (163,627) Net Income (Loss) Net Of Allocations (248,077)

2010 2010 Audited Revised Statements Budgets 922,022 950,000 41,003 25,000 7,548 7,000 42,550 55,000 1,013,123 1,037,000 267,650 265,000 88,000 88,000 88,278 80,000 3,803 7,000 2,565 3,000 5,621 2,500 10,594 5,000 33,885 15,000 109,123 69,000 609,519 534,500 2,736 6,264 8,383 7,120 4,977 4,667 6,628 5,603 3,770 1,968 397 213 992 655 1,691 2,787 3,207 1,407 (1,848) 61,618 671,137 341,986 (513,174) (156,780) (327,968)

3,350 6,264 9,300 7,120 6,342 21,028 6,628 6,420 3,770 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 100,222 634,722 402,278

2011 Revised Budgets 935,000 42,000 7,000 45,000 1,029,000 271,000 88,000 73,000 7,000 3,000 4,000 10,000 20,000 26,000 50,000 20,000 572,000 3,260 6,264 8,920 7,318 6,524 20,740 6,316 6,628 3,710 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 99,680 671,680 357,320

2012 Proposed Budgets 935,000 42,000 7,000 45,000 1,029,000 271,000 88,000 73,000 7,000 3,000 4,000 10,000 20,000 26,000 50,000 20,000 572,000 3,260 6,264 8,920 7,318 6,524 20,740 6,316 6,628 3,710 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 99,680 671,680 357,320

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LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGust 31, 2010

INCOME STATEMENT - LANDSCAPE TRADES MAGAZINE 2009 Audited Statements Revenue Advertising Web Display Ads Polybag Classified Ads Subscriptions Member Subscriptions Total Revenue

27,080 3,755 4,800 44,000 758,566

Discounts Member Discounts Agency Discounts Total Discounts

81,336 23,662 104,998

Gross Revenue

653,567

Expenses Printing Freelance Editorial Editorial Travel Sales Travel Mail Preparation Poly Bag Costs Postage (2nd Class) Postage (Foreign) Courier Charges Subscription Campaign Promotion/Media Kits CCAB Circulation Audit Miscellaneous Bad Debts Total Expenses

108,456 14,321 4,569 20,210 8,378 5,838 47,922 3,663 1,680 1,952 14,069 5,556 464 0 237,079

678,931

Net Income (Loss) 416,488 Wage Allocations (170,445) Overhead Allocations (81,814) Net Income (Loss) Net Of Allocations 164,230

2010 Audited Statements 572,511 450 40,917 3,745 5,668 44,000 667,290 76,003 11,663 87,666 579,624 95,384 14,118 1,932 15,657 7,840 5,378 47,937 3,196 993 0 14,817 5,556 73 0 212,880 366,745 (166,122) (78,390) 122,233

2010 Revised Budgets 723,000 35,000 6,000 9,000 44,000 817,000 78,000 30,000 108,000 709,000 120,000 20,000 4,000 20,000 10,000 8,000 47,000 5,000 3,000 2,000 15,000 5,000 500 1,000 260,500 448,500

2011 Revised Budgets 723,000 1,000 35,000 5,000 8,000 44,000 816,000 80,000 28,000 108,000 708,000 120,000 18,000 4,000 15,000 9,000 8,000 48,000 5,000 2,500 1,500 6,000 5,000 500 1,000 243,500 464,500

2012 Proposed Budgets 723,000 1,000 35,000 5,000 8,000 44,000 816,000 80,000 28,000 108,000 708,000 120,000 18,000 4,000 15,000 9,000 8,000 48,000 5,000 2,500 1,500 6,000 5,000 500 1,000 243,500 464,500

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010â&#x20AC;&#x192;

AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGust 31, 2010

INCOME STATEMENT - HORTICULTURE REVIEW 2009 Audited Statements Revenue Advertising Polybag Classified Ads Web Classsified Ads Subscriptions Member Subscriptions Total Revenue Discounts Member Discounts Agency Discounts Total Discounts

151,380 7,844 6,159 5,260 243 44,000 214,885 25,406 1,585 26,991

Gross Revenue

187,895

Expenses Printing Freelance Editorial Editorial Travel Mail Preparations Poly Bag Costs Postage Promotion/Media Kits Miscellaneous Bad Debts Total Expenses

41,384 0 1,214 4,819 2,150 17,389 83 0 0 67,040

Net Income (Loss) 120,854 Wage Allocations (139,536) Overhead Allocations (40,907) Net Income (Loss) Net Of Allocations (59,589)

2010 Audited Statements 139,591 12,434 7,170 8,260 406 44,000 211,860 24,860 864 25,724 186,136 42,729 0 987 4,251 2,180 17,372 0 0 0 67,519 118,617 (121,731) (39,195) (42,310)

2010 Revised Budgets 160,000 7,000 20,000 8,000 500 44,000 239,500 28,000 600 28,600 210,900 42,000 500 1,000 5,000 2,000 18,000 500 250 1,000 70,250 140,650

2011 Revised Budgets 160,000 8,000 6,000 8,000 500 44,000 226,500 28,000 600 28,600 197,900 42,000 0 1,200 5,000 2,000 18,000 0 250 500 68,950 128,950

2012 Proposed Budgets 160,000 8,000 6,000 8,000 500 44,000 226,500 28,000 600 28,600 197,900 42,000 0 1,200 5,000 2,000 18,000 0 250 500 68,950 128,950

PUBLISHING - SPECIAL PROJECTS Revenue Expenses Net Income (Loss) Wage Allocations Overhead Allocations Net Income (Loss) Net Of Allocations

109,461 66,861 42,600 (9,028) 0 33,572

110,446 60,914 49,532 (9,287) 0 40,246

95,000 60,000 35,000

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LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGust 31, 2010

INCOME STATEMENT - CONGRESS 2009 Audited Statements Revenue Exhibit Space Exhibit Space-Partners Registration Miscellaneous/Sponsorship Total Revenue

1,742,978 51,625 112,143 40,777 1,947,522

Discounts Member Discounts Member Discounts-Partners Total Discounts

162,596 2,800 165,396

Gross Revenue

1,782,126

Expenses Exhibit Hall Security Show Services Feature Area Garden Subsidy Speakers Registration Services Audio Visual Equipment Entertainment Receptions Printing Promotion Public Relations Services Advertising Photography Flowers Gifts/ Gratuities Insurance Move In/Move Out Snow Removal Travel Parking Police Postage Janitorial Software Labour Commissions-Partners Miscellaneous Total Expenses

361,160 23,705 105,865 4,320 19,069 26,280 35,027 27,100 27,362 22,017 43,972 37,090 7,290 26,444 2,862 4,543 0 6,664 85,249 0 57,099 9,700 1,628 25,996 35,175 8,779 6,485 9,835 7,337 1,028,051

Net Income (Loss) 754,075 Wage Allocations (186,109) Overhead Allocations (163,627) Net Income (Loss) Net Of Allocations 404,340

2010 2010 Audited Revised Statements Budgets 1,730,964 1,760,000 59,000 44,000 129,076 125,000 34,746 20,000 1,953,786 1,949,000

2011 Revised Budgets 1,765,000 70,000 120,000 30,000 1,985,000

156,784 163,000 5,950 5,000 162,734 168,000 1,791,053 1,781,000 356,110 356,110 23,030 24,000 101,525 105,000 0 4,000 12,186 8,000 31,818 32,000 36,066 37,000 7,715 16,000 7,653 20,000 25,153 20,000 25,573 40,000 14,307 16,000 8,302 8,100 28,527 30,000 2,592 0 2,684 4,500 30 1,500 6,664 7,000 91,450 80,000 0 10,000 45,491 45,000 10,611 9,700 1,680 1,800 19,888 22,000 35,175 35,000 10,492 8,525 6,351 5,000 13,825 10,000 6,993 5,000 931,891 961,235 859,161 819,765 (209,020) (156,780) 493,362

170,000 7,200 177,200 1,807,800 366,785 24,000 100,000 4,000 14,000 30,000 37,000 15,000 0 33,000 32,000 22,000 7,000 30,000 2,800 3,000 1,000 7,000 90,000 10,000 43,000 11,000 1,800 22,000 36,500 9,000 7,000 13,000 5,000 976,885 830,915

2012 Proposed Budgets 1,765,000 70,000 120,000 30,000 1,985,000 170,000 7,200 177,200 1,807,800 366,785 24,000 100,000 4,000 14,000 30,000 37,000 15,000 0 33,000 32,000 22,000 7,000 30,000 2,800 3,000 1,000 7,000 90,000 10,000 43,000 11,000 1,800 22,000 36,500 9,000 7,000 13,000 5,000 976,885 830,915

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010â&#x20AC;&#x192;

AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGust 31, 2010

INCOME STATEMENT - GARDEN EXPO 2009 Audited Statements Revenue Exhibit Space Registration Sponsorship Miscellaneous Total Revenue Discounts Member Discounts Total Discounts Gross Revenue Expenses Exhibit Hall Security Show Services Registration Services Printing Promotion Public Relations Services Advertising Photography Move In/Move Out Travel Parking Receptions Postage Janitorial Software Commissions-Partners Miscellaneous Total Expenses

651,128 2,486 8,800 662,413 22,300 22,300 640,113 95,580 7,845 48,470 10,767 14,566 3,698 3,200 50,764 36,107 12,681 1,804 9,146 12,949 7,360 7,131 0 4,905 326,974

Net Income (Loss) 313,139 Wage Allocations (153,713) Overhead Allocations (122,720) Net Income (Loss) Net Of Allocations 36,706

2010 Audited Statements 553,145 4,614 9,004 566,763 22,300 22,402 544,361 95,580 8,147 54,637 11,290 9,791 7,785 3,500 30,121 33,885 14,985 1,906 10,633 15,383 7,360 7,235 0 5,795 318,031 226,330 (120,548) (117,585) (11,803)

2010 Revised Budgets 580,469 2,500 5,000 587,969 22,300 22,300 565,669 95,580 7,800 42,000 12,000 14,000 5,000 3,100 25,500 35,000 9,000 1,900 9,000 10,000 7,200 7,200 0 5,000 289,280 276,389

2011 Revised Budgets 594,000 6,000 5,000 0 605,000 22,300 20,000 585,000 98,444 9,000 53,000 12,000 14,000 9,400 5,300 25,000 1,500 34,000 15,000 2,000 8,500 16,500 7,500 7,000 9,100 2,350 329,594 255,406

2012 Proposed Budgets 594,000 6,000 5,000 0 605,000 22,300 20,000 585,000 98,444 9,000 53,000 12,000 14,000 9,400 5,300 25,000 1,500 34,000 15,000 2,000 8,500 16,500 7,500 7,000 9,100 2,350 329,594 255,406

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LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGust 31, 2010

INCOME STATEMENT - EDUCATION 2009 Audited Statements Revenue Special Projects Trade Courses Certification Total Revenue

143,804 178,613 98,648 421,065

Expenses Special Projects Trade Courses Certification Promotion Foundation Scholarships Funding Total Expenses

37,496 118,641 77,244 13,552 12,000 258,933

Net Income (Loss) 162,131 Wage Allocations (150,633) Overhead Allocations (81,814) Net Income (Loss) Net Of Allocations (70,315)

2010 Audited Statements 7,881 207,269 60,939 276,089 77 115,769 49,021 13,212 12,000 190,078 86,010 (131,368) (78,390) (123,748)

2010 Revised Budgets 10,000 180,000 75,000 265,000 10,000 118,000 60,000 15,000 12,000 215,000 50,000

2011 Revised Budgets 17,000 205,000 50,000 272,000 2,000 117,000 35,000 15,000 12,000 181,000 91,000

2012 Proposed Budgets 17,000 205,000 50,000 272,000 2,000 117,000 35,000 15,000 12,000 181,000 91,000

INCOME STATEMENT - DEPARTMENTAL SUMMARY 2009 Audited Statements Revenue General Membership Publications Congress Expo Education Total Revenue

678,393 1,021,036 950,923 1,782,126 640,113 421,065 5,493,657

Expenses General Membership Publications Congress Expo Education Total Expenses

2,459,143 638,009 370,980 1,028,051 326,974 258,933 5,082,090

Net Income (Loss)

411,567

2010 Audited Statements 523,661 1,013,123 876,206 1,791,053 544,361 276,089 5,024,493 2,421,828 671,137 341,312 931,891 318,031 190,078 4,874,278 150,215

2010 Revised Budgets 313,000 1,037,000 1,014,900 1,781,000 565,669 265,000 4,976,569 2,481,877 634,722 390,750 961,235 289,280 215,000 4,972,864 3,705

2011 Revised Budgets 264,000 1,029,000 1,000,900 1,807,800 585,000 272,000 4,958,700 2,401,500 671,680 372,450 976,885 329,594 181,000 4,933,109 25,591

2012 Proposed Budgets 264,000 1,029,000 1,000,900 1,807,800 585,000 272,000 4,958,700 2,401,500 671,680 372,450 976,885 329,594 181,000 4,933,109 25,591

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2010

MEMBERSHIP COUNT MEMBERSHIP COUNT MEMBERSHIP COUNT EXCLUDING HORT MEMBERS EXCLUDING HORT MEMBERS 2000-2010 1999-2009 1999-2009

MEMBERSHIP COUNT EXCLUDING HORT MEMBERS 2000-2010

25002500 24002400 23002300 22002200 21002100 20002000

17551755

MEMBERSHIP

19001900 18001800 17001700

15801580

16001600

18291829

19061906

19481948 19301930

16601660

14741474

15001500 14001400 13441344 13631363 13471347 13001300 12001200 11001100 10001000 900 900

19991999 20002000 20012001 20022002 20032003 20042004 20052005 20062006 20072007 20082008 20092009

FISCAL YEAR FISCAL YEAR

NEW MEMBERS Durham AWC Marketing INC Don Schier 9565 Baldwin St N, Myrtle Station Brooklin, ON L0B 1A0 Tel: 905-655-9300 Membership Type: Associate Georgian Lakelands Consulting By Hart Jacki Hart 11223 Ziska Rd, PO Box 631 Bracebridge, ON P1L 1T9 Tel: 705-645-2787 Membership Type: Associate

Ottawa Go Mobile Communications Inc Kristin Headricik 1255 Coldrey Ave Ottawa, ON K1Z 7P6 Tel: 613-725-5505 Membership Type: Chapter Associate Jacob M Landscapes Jake Maarse 5984 Third Line Rd N North Gower, ON K0A 2T0 Tel: 613-489-0296 Membership Type: Interim

Solid Rock Masonry & Landscaping Chris Clarke 222 Albert Street Sundridge, ON P0A 1Z0 Tel: 705-384-2706 Membership Type: Active

Toronto Gardenimport inc Dugald Cameron Unit 5 - 2 Essex Ave Thornhill, ON L3T 3Y8 Tel: 905-731-1950 Membership Type: Active

Golden Horseshoe JCB Inc Gary Lisson C6 - 3375 North Service Rd Burlington, ON L7N 3G2 Tel: -905-639-7488 Membership Type: Associate

Gardens in the City Inc Chaz Morenz 146 Gough Ave Toronto, ON M4K 3P1 Tel: 647-838-7946 Membership Type: Active

General Motors of Canada Ltd Mr. Startek 1908 Colonel Sam Dr Dept. 135-001 (Fleet Dept) Oshawa, ON L1H 8P7 Tel: 905-644-3627 Membership Type: Associate Horvath Contracting Inc Matthew Horvath 14358 Bathurt St King City, ON L7B 1K5 Tel: 905-751-0788 Membership Type: Active Kage Innovation LLC Melody Daeley 22200 Meadowbrook Ave N Scandia, MN 55073 USA Tel: 651-433-4628 Membership Type: Associate Landscape Industries Karine Gagnon 33 Cedar St Holland Landing, ON L9N 1G4 Tel: 289-338-2958 Membership Type: Interim

Mavis Garden Supplies Co Ltd Jennifer Leal 3539 Mavis Road Mississauga, ON L5C 1T7 Tel: 905-277-2541 Membership Type: Active Pacific Rim Brackets Shaun Grant 102 - 1290 Homer St Vancouver, BC V6B 2Y5 Tel: 604-844-2200 Membership Type: Associate Seal King Inc Lino Tatone 14 Melanie Dr, Unit 14 Brampton, ON L6T 4L3 Tel: 905-799-1113 Membership Type: Associate John Cary Toronto, ON Membership Type: Horticultural Waterloo T S Technical College Inc David Kerr 3058 Lobsinger Line Heidelberg, ON N0B 1YO Tel: 519-699-4681 Membership Type: Associate

Palace Perennials

Proudly growing fine perennials in Wyoming, Ontario for over 22 years • • • •

Over 1200+ varieties of perennials Many unique and hard to find varieties Available in 9 cm, 15 cm and 2 gal. pots Great fern and ornamental grass section, plus tropical vines, hardy vines and clematis • Herbs in 9 cm pots, waterplants with large picture tags • Ornamental grasses in 50 cells for growing on (and contract growing) Phone: 866-843-0438 (sales) or 519-542-8353 Fax: 519-542-1079

Robert Schuijt (on the road sales): 519-827-0853 Catalogue at www.sipkensnurseries.com 52 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010

LO STAFF PROFILE

Helen Hassard

Membership coordinator What is your basic job description at LO? I’m the membership and chapter coordinator. It’s a fairly large job description, but the gist of it is I’m here to help the chapters serve their membership and encourage others in the green industry to join LO. This involves everything from helping to plan chapter meetings and events, to working on marketing strategies, to helping members who contact me directly. What is your background before coming to LO, and when did you begin work at LO? Before coming to LO I worked for a small non-profit in Burlington called the Halton Industry Education Council, where I was hired to analyse data (my degree was in Economic and Finance). I quickly realized that data analysis was not for me, and got into proposal writing using the stats as a platform for building arguments. When one of the proposals I wrote for a new event was accepted, I became an events coordinator, and never looked back. When I heard LO was looking for someone to help coordinate activities all over the province, working with hundreds of different people, I had to apply. I started working at LO at the end of May 2010, and have found it to be just as challenging and rewarding as I had hoped. When not at work, where can you be found? I would either be with friends, or with my puppy and fiancé. I’m a really social person and rarely choose to spend my free time alone. My friends, fiancé and puppy all enjoy sports, so often we’re outside playing something, or inside yelling at the TV/computer. I also enjoy playing cards, foosball (table football), and basically anything we can make competitive. When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? For me it was constantly changing. First I wanted to be an artist, then a veterinarian, then probably during my teens something like a movie star, and then a lawyer. But, I’m still not sure what I want to be when I

grow up. What inspires you during your time at LO? The members. I’m constantly impressed by the fact that our members will work 24-7 and still take time to help out with LO. I’ve come to realize that LO does a lot for the industry, but none of that would be possible without the industry folks who turn around and volunteer their time, expertise and money to make things happen. I’m also inspired by my colleagues. There is a huge learning curve at LO, and since starting here in May everyone has been extremely supportive and helpful. Name your all-time favourite movie, musical group and TV show. I don’t really have a favourite movie; mainly we watch DVD seasons of TV shows. One movie that we did buy and have watched countless times is Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Russell Brand is hilarious. My favourite musical group: Lady Gaga, Incubus, or maybe The Presets; it really depends on my mood. How I Met Your Mother is my favourite TV show. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? I would go to Greece. Well, I would go anywhere warmer than here, but if I could only choose one place it would be Greece. Tell us one thing about you that few of your colleagues know about you. I’m really interested in mythology, especially Norse myth. I think their society had such an interesting perspective on the world. When I was in school I debated switching to

a Classics degree. Although my colleagues might already know this about me, my dog’s name is Loki after all.

Vineland appoints business development director Vineland Research and Innovation Centre has announced the appointment of Darlene Homonko to the position of director of business development. Homonko is responsible for directing Vineland’s commercialization activities as a hub for agriculture, food and flower innovation. She brings over ten years experience in life sciences commercialization, including four-plus years in the venture capital sector. From 2006 to 2010, Homonko was executive director of the Golden Horseshoe Bioscience Network, spearheading the formation of a bioscience cluster in Hamilton, Halton and Niagara. She holds a Ph.D., Neuroscience from the University of Toronto, Institute of Medical Sciences; a M.Sc., Kinesiology from Dalhousie University; and a B.Sc., Physical Education, Health, General Science from the University of Rhode Island.

LO members use discounted Canada Blooms tickets as Christmas gifts Landscape Ontario members can take advantage of a special promotional opportunity by ordering tickets to Canada Blooms, for distribution to their clients, staff, friends and potential clients. Members are charged only for those tickets handed in at the door during Canada Blooms, from Mar. 16 to 20. The cost to members is $12 per ticket, instead of the

regular price of $18 for those tickets handed in at the gate during the festival. Many members mail tickets to clients and potential leads as Christmas gifts. To take advantage of the opportunity, to order tickets, call Kathleen Pugliese at 1-800-2655656, ext. 309. Tickets are available in packages of 20.

HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010 53

New insurance carrier is good news for industry says committee chair Horticulture Review recently sat down with CNLA’s insurance committee chair Gerald Boot to discuss some of the changes taking place with the HortProtect insurance program. Boot also serves on the Landscape Ontario Board of Directors and is a past president of Landscape Ontario. His involvement with LO goes all the way back to 1983. “The changeover is a good thing for our industry,” says Boot. “I just made the switch and saved 20 per cent on my previous insurance rates.” Boot’s Landscaping and Maintenance serves Toronto and surrounding areas. In mid-fall, Marsh Canada was appointed as the exclusive insurance and risk management broker for the HortProtect Property and Casualty Insurance Program. Toronto-based brokerage firm Sinclair Cockburn and Lombard were the previous brokers under the HortProtect program. Marsh refers to itself as the world’s leading insurance broker and risk adviser, with over 23,000 employees and clients in over 100 countries. “It was easy to make the change,” says Boot. “We (the insurance committee) gave the previous carrier all kinds of opportunity and they failed.” He went on to say that the change in car-

riers is an opportunity to make association businesses stronger. “The two big areas for our industry are vehicle accidents and slip and falls,” explains Boot. Significant coverage restriction began back in July, removing liability coverage for snow removal operations along with doubledigit rate increases to all members. The insurance committee immediately began to seek alternative solutions. New Risk Management Council A subcommittee of the CNLA insurance committee has been created. The mandate of the new Risk Management Council is to install a sustain-

Online plant encyclopedia follows Wikipedia example The Plant Encyclopedia is a new innovation that provides information and images of cultivated plants. Created by Aden Earth of Toronto, The Plant Encyclopedia website is public-authored, using the same technology developed by

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able risk control program for all sectors of the landscape and horticulture industries. Currently, the Council is addressing snow and ice insurance risks. It is expected a new winter maintenance standard form contract will soon be available. The Council is also working with its broker, insurance company and industry members to assess risks, educate members and develop a strategy for efficiently and economically resolving claims. To contact Marsh Canada, use the toll free telephone number at 1-888-949-4360, or email cnla.hortprotect@marsh.com, or Joel Beatson CLP, CAE at 1-888-446-3499, ext. 8620, or www.canadanursery.com.

54 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010

Wikipedia. Anyone may provide information on any plant page. The activity is moderated by The Plant Encyclopedia community of authors. The website has several other innovations such as hi-res images that allow zooming in to examine plants closely and aid in field plant identification. The Plant Encyclopedia can be used on a phone, iPad, or laptop and taken into the garden. Landscape professionals and companies find the portability of the system is useful to showcase plants to clients. A link to ThePlantEncyclopedia.org may be found on the landscapeontario.com website. Look under Plant Resource on home page, and then click on Plant Encyclopedia. Continue on the next page, and again click on Plant Encyclopedia, which will access to the 25,000 plants.

Have your say at AGM Members wishing to have a say concerning issues affecting the association, will have the opportunity at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Jan. 12, at the Doubletree International Plaza Hotel, 655 Dixon Rd., Toronto. Free breakfast is served, starting at 7:30 a.m. An rsvp is appreciated to Kathleen Pugliese at 905875-1805, or 1-800-265-5656, ext. 309, or kathleenp@landscapeontario.com.

LEGAL ISSUES

Reminiscing on a decade in Horticulture Review By Robert Kennaley McLauchlin & Associates

y, how time flies. Our law firm first became members of Landscape Ontario in 1998, and I first wrote a column for Horticulture Review in March of 1999. Since that time, we have covered many a legal, contractual and practical issues in this space. We have watched your industry grow and, along the way, watched contractors, designers, consultants and suppliers become Rob Kennaley more professional, more sophisticated, more risk-management-savvy and more active in pursuing the opportunities and benefits which a vibrant trade association can provide. We believe Horticulture Review has played, and continues to play, an important part in bringing important information, advice and feedback to Landscape Ontario members. I am happy to have been a part of that process over the last 11 or 12 years. While we will continue to be active readers of Horticulture Review in the future, however, it has been decided that this column will move to a different publication, Landscape Trades, effective Jan. 1, 2011. Our column will continue to be available to you, the Horticulture Review reader, as Landscape Trades is also published by Landscape Ontario. The move is being made because Landscape Trades will expose our column to more readers, in that it is a national publication with broader circulation. We will still provide articles to Horticulture Review on regionally specific topics, from time to time. In the meantime, we hope you will look for us in Landscape Trades. With the remainder of this last regular column, I’d like to reminisce on what I have seen happening at Landscape Ontario over the last 10 years or so. I think Landscape Ontario and its members need to be credited with individually, and collectively, making great strides with respect to risk and business management, and in protecting and advancing the interests of the landscape and horticulture industries. A few examples might help to illustrate where I am coming from. I remember that, 10 or more years ago, Terry Murphy put panels together for Congress,

comprised of representatives of the Ministry of Transportation, the Ministry of Labour, WSIB, lawyers and experienced contractors. The goal was to provide information about legislative requirements, expectations and consequences in relation to trucks, trailers, occupational health and safety, WSIB, and employment relationships and standards. More importantly, the program called for an extensive question and answer portion, allowing participants to pick the brains of those governing the areas in question. Surprisingly, the sessions were not very well attended. Since that time, however, more and more members have begun to take their responsibilities in this regard very seriously, as evidenced by the participation in LO’s seminar programs, safety groups and committees, etc. As an organization, LO has made great strides in clarifying and reducing member obligations, for instance with respect to WSIB standard form contracts in various regulatory reforms. We have also seen, over the years, a significant improvement in the way Landscape Ontario members have addressed contractual issues and liability. Gone for the most part, hopefully, are the days when Landscape Ontario members would enter strictly oral contracts, or (perhaps worse-yet) written contracts which were vague or ambiguous or categorically unfair. We have seen members become increasingly (and properly) concerned to ensure they have good contracts in place. We have also seen LO take a lead role in that regard, through the drafting of standard form contracts and through offering educational seminars. In addition, we have seen the profile of the industry increase over time. Whether they be contractors, consultants or suppliers, members are individually and collectively working in their communities to enhance the professional nature of their industry. This is reflected for example in the fact that many commercial construction contracts now call for the landscape subcontractors to be pre-qualified. In addition, bonding requirements in relation to landscape contracts are becoming more and more prevalent. All of this speaks to the fact that the landscape and horticulture industry is becoming increasingly recognized as an important and sophisticated sub-set of the province’s construction industry as a whole. This, in our view, is in large part due to the dedication and hard work of Landscape Ontario’s members, working independently and as a group, and to the efforts of Landscape Ontario itself.

There is, of course, much to be done. Many members and non-members alike continue to run risks and assume liabilities that they might be better off avoiding. We can always do better to educate participants in the landscape and horticulture industries, and to collectively continue to enhance the professional profile of these industries. In that regard, we hope you will continue to look for articles in Landscape Trades. In the meantime, it has been a pleasure sharing this space with you over the last number of years. Robert Kennaley practices construction law in Toronto and Simcoe. He speaks and writes regularly across North America. He can be reached for comment at 416- 368-2522, or at kennaley@mclauchlin.ca. This material is for information purposes and is not intended to provide legal advice in relation to any particular fact situation. Readers who have concerns about any particular circumstance are encouraged to seek independent legal advice in that regard.

A RCHITECTURALLY D ESIGNED

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GAZEBOS AND S HELTERS

 Tel.: (905) 563-8133 • Fax: (905) 563-7526 Visit us at: www.limestonetrail.com

HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010 55

PROSPERITY PARTNERS

Taking people management to the next level By Jacki Hart CLP Prosperity Partners program manager

n the Prosperity Partners program, we have a framework which supports the key aspects and activities of every business. We call this framework the Pillars of Prosperity, and they include: Financial Health, Sales Success, Professional Operations, Leadership and Customers for Life. What I’ve come to realize by stepping back and workJacki Hart ing ON the Prosperity Partners program, rather than IN it, is that there’s a deeper layer, which lies in the base of every pillar, and which flows horizontally between them. It is the behaviour of the people in your business. This ‘aha’ moment is what sparked inspiration to spend this past summer writing an e-book. I finally figured out a way to articulate and measure the behavioural financial statement, and unravel the mysteries that lie in the invisible undercurrents of every business: the behaviour of the people who work in them. After working with hundreds of you, while teaching the Prosperity Partners program, I can assure you that people problems are the status quo. Whether in a Prosperity seminar, or networking with peers either in our trade or beyond, business owners have similar frustrations with managing people. I too have struggled as owner of Water’s Edge Landscaping with the mysteries and frustrations of how to get people to work together, embracing common purpose, without personalities, or personal agendas getting in the way. As owners and managers, supervisors and technicians, we all seem to possess a common passion for the challenges and fun in the work we do, yet struggle to engage and align with the people at work. I learned so much on my Prosperity journey about managing people – and I’m better at it than I used to be, yet I’m prepared to admit there’s no end point. Rather, it’s a continuous journey. There really is no one formula to manage people successfully. We are all different, and we all bring different strengths to the table,

different personalities and different biases. And, at times, there are different hidden personal agendas. Everyone goes to work in the morning unconsciously humming their own tune of what’s in it for me today; what am I going to accomplish and earn (monetary or pride or both)? Through many months of contemplating this invisible factor, I’ve come to this conclusion: In order to be a more effective owner or manager, your thinking needs to shift from the concept of managing (and often micro-managing) people, to a concept of organizing them. The difference between the two, as I see it, is like night and day. Based on the overwhelmingly similar experience of most owners in our Prosperity Partners program, it’s what’s missing in many businesses. Let me give you an example. Over the years, I have been a champion micro-manager in my landscape business. I was the keeper of all moving parts, the doer or trainer of all tasks, and fixer of most equipment. I assigned schedules, trucks, people, tasks and materials. I also designed landscapes, managed sub trades, negotiated with clients, and was a beggar of bank managers. I think you get my point. In hindsight, what I now know is that as long as I kept up that role, my business needed me. It wasn’t until the past few years, when I really learned the enormous power in stepping back, that I started to think differently, and organize differently. It’s working, so I share it here with you to consider the merits of my theory. As long as you manage every moving part in your business, you will need to continue along that path. And you will not likely find those engaged, perfect employees for whom you are constantly searching. The truth is, you already have untapped engagement – but just like most entrepreneurs, you don’t know how to turn it on. I pushed up against that brick wall for years. My experience is that when you create the opportunity for people to engage, think and be accountable in a self-motivated, prideful way, magic happens. The tension between staff dissipates, and they engage in the bigger picture, have more fun, rise to more challenges with enthusiasm, and are much more effective as a team. This shift doesn’t come overnight; it’s taken a lot of patience, and a whole new set of tools – people tools – to fill this huge gap

56 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010

in my business. The great news is that the effort to change my own attitude toward the people resource in my business is really paying off. It’s taken me along on an expensive (millions of payroll dollars) journey to realize that no matter what I do, or say, or direct people to do, it’s their attitude and behaviour that either accelerates the results of my efforts to create a successful business, or sabotages them. With or without the intention to do so, it’s what it is. I suggest that this deeper layer, the invisible effects of the way people behave in your business, needs attention if you are going to bring your business to its next level and keep it there. This starts with the Build Your Prosperity seminar, where participants step back and define the culture of their business: The non-negotiable, the mind set, the whatwe-do, and the why we are doing it. This important step will define the foundation and direction of your business, and unlock the door to engagement with right-fit people, dumping wrong-fit people, and (I now realize) setting the standards for everyone owning their role and being accountable to their responsibilities at work. With a solid foundation in place, and best practices being followed across the Pillars and within them, accountable and engaged people will manage themselves. The boss then just needs to organize his or her efforts with big picture thinking. My passion to create and teach the Prosperity Partners program content has been rooted in my desire help as many of you as I can, in order to avoid the pitfalls that I fell into head-first along my business journey. This behavioural ‘aha’ moment is one more piece in the puzzle to demystifying the keys to success, and goes to show that even the Prosperity Partners Program is on its own journey of continual improvement and development. Join me at Congress on Wed., Jan. 12 at 2 p.m., to learn more about how this great program can really help the business you work in, and move you to the next level of success. To learn more about Jacki Hart’s new e-book, Clarity for the Boss, you may reach her at jacki@clarityfortheboss.com.

Fanshawe College students benefit from online safety training By Michael Pascoe CLT, Fanshawe College

rofessional training, both through the industry and colleges, has seen a dramatic reduction in WSIB rates for the landscape industry over the past several years. How do you provide the best training possible, especially when it involves frequently large, new or intimidating pieces of landscape equipment to often inexperienced individuals? As a teacher, this can often be one of the most nerve-wracking experiences of our careers, but also one of the most rewarding and essential employability skills we teach. We know that the training we provide to safely work in the landscape environment may at some point be a health- or even life-saving experience. We also know that our industry is often rushed in the spring and short cuts may be taken, especially when it comes to on-thejob training. Therefore, through preparation on our part as educators, we can often save time and anguish from both an employee and employer perspective, and hopefully ensure a safe working environment by providing the best training possible. A primary responsibility of any educator is to look for new or fresh ways to deliver or enhance curriculum. So, two years ago, when we were revamping our Equipment Operation and Workplace Safety course, we talked to Jay Murray of LS Training System about integrating his online training in our course. He was pleased to partner with us, and in 2009, our first group of students participated in selected modules as an academic requirement of the course. The participation of the students was independent of the actual scheduled class time (homework) and their learning and comprehension was greatly enhanced through this further, supplemental training. Jay Murray trained Fanshawe instructors to use the program, allowing the instructors to customize, track and manage the students as they work their way through the modules. Students were asked to complete an online survey regarding this form of safety training, and a few indicated they had been anxious about using some of the large equipment required at the college. The online equipment safety modules allowed them to familiarize themselves with the equipment before they had to use it in practice. As the safety lessons are completed as homework, outside of class time, students

The online safety training has helped Fanshawe students become familiar with large equipment before they use it.

can watch the videos several times if necessary, until they are confident they understand how each piece works. In January 2010, our second group of students went through this training, ensuring that all Fanshawe College Horticulture students have passed the modules. The training has been so successful in creating a heightened awareness of equipment operation and workplace safety, that we are now making it a requirement of the Horticulture Apprenticeship curriculum, beginning this December. As educators, we work with youth in the landscape in a practical program, where students routinely operate all manner of landscape equipment to maintain and develop our grounds. In a non-typical work environment, we have some 14,000 people around potential job sites, making safety paramount. Education has to be relevant — our students must leave Fanshawe with the essential employable skills that the industry requires. With industry partners such as landscapesafety.com, our students leave with marketable skills — skills that you would expect your current employees to have. Michael Pascoe is the coordinatorhorticulture technician program at Fanshawe College and a member of Landscape Ontario.

Uxbridge Nurseries

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HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010 57

Ottawa Chapter members are planning to expand the Day of Tribute across the Landscape Ontario membership in 2011.

Chapter honours memory of soldiers at 5th annual Day of Tribute in Ottawa By Martha Walsh

or the fifth consecutive year LO members and associates gathered together in a voluntary effort to honour fallen soldiers and the families of veterans and military personnel. They gave their time, experience, products and manpower on Nov. 5 to beautify the National Memorial Cemetery, which is housed in Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa. It took place on the first day of the Veterans’ Week celebrations in Ottawa. Sharon Urquhart of Green Unlimited and David Stewart of Greenscape once again were the local industry members who organized the manpower and supplies for the special day. Urquhart said, “What better way to show we care about our nation’s history and the pride we feel for our soldiers, than to make a gesture that cares for their final resting place. We are pleased that the value of our industry serves our community in this way.” Members also participated in memory of their own families who are interred there, or who have served in the military. Dave Stewart stated that he participates every year because, “It is the right thing to do to honour those who are here and their families.” Commencing with a sponsored coffee bar by local associate Bradley’s Insurance, participants this year were also given commemorative poppies and ‘Support our Troops’ pins, donated by Norleans Technologies. The Day of Tribute began with opening greetings from Sharon Urquhart. Also present were military members, Commander Marie-France Langlois, deputy director of the Directorate of Casualty Support Management, Chief Warrant Officer Dan Bradley, Manager of the National Military Cemetery, and Warrant

Officer David Hannigan, Canadian Forces Liaison Officer to Beechwood Cemetery. Dominique Boulais was also present representing the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Present from Beechwood Cemetery were Roger Boult and Nicole Bedard. Rounding out the list of dignitaries were Landscape Ontario vice president Tim Kearney CLP, LO’s director of public relations Denis Flanagan CLD, and Ottawa Chapter president Sarah Johnston. Once the introductions, greetings and thanks concluded, members commenced with the process of aerating, fertilizing, seeding and general garden bed maintenance. Equipment and material were donated by local industry professionals, including participation this year from Upper Canada Chapter member Thornbusch Landscaping. Paul Doornbos CLP, CLT and his team of five employees arrived from Lansdowne. They were joined by 36 other Ottawa Chapter

members all participating in the day’s activities. The nasty weather held off until noon, at which time lunch was provided thanks to the sponsorship of Norleans Technologies. A huge and heart-felt thank you to the following firms that provided product, machinery and volunteers: Bauer Landscape and Garden Maintenance, Clintar Landscape Management — Ottawa, Garden Creations of Ottawa, Nutrilawn, Weedman, Terrapro, Greenspace Services, Green Unlimited, Peter Smith and Sons, By-town Lawn Experts, Fraser Wilson Inc., Greenscape, Ganden Landscape, Lindsay Landscapes, Thornbusch Landscaping, Bradley’s Insurance, Tony Zegers and Plant Products, Peter Knippel Nurseries, Ritchie Feed and Seed and Skeggs Landscaping. Next year’s event is already in the planning stages with hope to expand the Day of Tribute across the Landscape Ontario membership.

LO members aerated, fertilized, seeded and performed general garden bed maintenance at the Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa.

58 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010

Call goes out to join garden build at Canada Blooms By Tim J Kearney CLP

he dictionary defines the word advocacy as, “Active support, especially the act of pleading or arguing for something.” In approximately 130 days, we commence once again to build our industry garden at Canada Blooms. Hopefully, members far and wide will see the value and benefit in joining our industry team where we can leave a lasting impression on our most important ally, members of the public. You see, without inspired consumers, we don’t have an industry. There is not one sector that wouldn’t be damaged if there was no Canada Blooms. The mission statement for Canada Blooms is to “produce a world class annual flower and garden festival that celebrates the pleasures and benefits of horticulture and floriculture for the enjoyment of domestic and international visitors.” The mission statement of Landscape Ontario is “to be the leader in representing, promoting and fostering a favourable climate for the advancement of the horticulture industry in Ontario.” Sometimes we look too far for answers to marketing questions, promotion and advertising. You need only look to that time in mid-March to see how lucky we all are to have the opportunity to “show off a bit.” If there is a knock I have of this industry, it is that we don’t beat our drums enough. We need some more bravado, more chutzpah, or quite frankly let’s show off because, we are the best. Building a garden at Canada Blooms can be a company changer. Building a garden at Canada Blooms will be a most rewarding experience.

Building a garden at Canada blooms…“the finest show in Canada” proudly declares you are one of the best. Unfortunately, there is just not enough space for everyone to have their own garden at Canada Blooms. So, why not join our industry team? You will create friendships that will last a lifetime and build team chemistry in your own company. Choose a task (a piece of the garden if you will) and build it for us, your industry. In a small way, you start to build your legacy. This industry is over-flowing with superstars, both big and small, near and far. All have a common thread. A thread coloured with passion. This year we’ve added another superstar to our line up. Haig Seferian is our design team leader and is complimented by last year’s superstar Beth Edney. It scares me to think what they will come up with, but at the same time it is exciting. Our area this year at Blooms is bigger than last year, which was bigger than the year before, and on and on. This year our garden will sit proudly at the entrance to Canada Blooms. Visitors to this year’s Canada Blooms will be required to walk through our garden to get to the rest of the show. What a statement. Start with LO to get to the best! In March of 2010, over 200 wonderful people from over 40 companies saw the value in what we do and wanted a small piece. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if those numbers doubled this year? Why not? After all…this is your industry. This is your festival. This is your chance to proudly declare who we are. Am I an advocate of Canada Blooms? You’re damn right I am. But more importantly, I am an advocate of this industry. Every sector

Everyone brings their talent, drive and dedication to creating the LO garden

should be involved. Every Chapter should be there. We reach out to our many educational programs. They too are part of this. And of course, our partners from across Canada, through CNLA, are big supporters of Canada Blooms. Why not? When horticulture is promoted, it benefits the entire industry. After all, it is called Canada Blooms. There is absolutely no excuse. Over the coming weeks and months, we will ask, plead, beg and perhaps demand of your help. Over the coming weeks and months, you will have ample opportunity to talk at Chapter meetings and Sector meetings. Tell them that you need to be involved. Talk to your staff and see if they want to work as a team at Canada Blooms. I would love to talk to you. I may be contacted at timkearney@ gcottawa.com. Our staff contact is Denis Flanagan, dflanagan@landscapeontario.com. “The highest reward for a person’s toil is not what they get for it, but what they become by it.” John Raskin

Contact information for Canada Blooms

A total team effort created the Green for Life garden.

Exhibiting, Gilles Bouchard – gbouchard@landscapeontario.com Sponsorship, Gerry Ginsberg – gerry.ginsberg@canadablooms.com Magazine, Steve Moyer – stevemoyer@landscapeontario.com For general information, call 416-447-8655, or visit www.canadablooms.com.

HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010 59

CLASSIFIED ADS SERVICES AND SUPPLIES

NURSERY STOCK

TREE TRANSPLANTING Transplanting trees up to 9” truck diameter with 10,000 lb. rootball. 44”, 80” & 90” spades to move trees with and can basket up to 90” 100 acres of trees to choose from. BOTANIX OXFORD INSTA-SHADE RR # 2, Burgessville ON N0J 1C0 Tel: (519) 424-2180 • Fax: (519) 424-2420 Toll Free: 1-800-387-0246 Contact Jan Veldhuizen E-mail: jan@oxfordinstashade.com www.oxfordinstashade.com

PERENNIALS Large assortment of perennials, ground covers and native plants. Price - Variety list available. FRANK SCHENK PERENNIALS 663 River Road (Belfountain), Caledon, ON L7K 0E5 Tel: (519) 927-5415 Fax: (519) 927-9084

Hofland Gardens Ornamental Grasses, Perennials, Ground cover Tel: 905-355-3392 E-mail: hoflandgardens@phc.igs.net

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Burlington’s leading irrigation contractor has openings available for technicians experienced in the field of irrigation system installation and maintenance. Full season employment – early spring to late fall and must have clean drivers licence. Please contact us: info@selectsprinklers.com or fax: (289) 288-1700

Advertising

works!

GROUND COVERS UNLIMITED Your Ontario source for ornamental and native ground covers. Call, fax, or write for the 2010 Catalogue and planting guide. GROUND COVERS UNLIMITED 1045 Porter Road, P.O. Box 190 Bethany, ON L0A 1A0 Tel: (705) 277-3005 Fax: (705) 277-9213

Get INSPIRED Get CONNECTED

EQUIPMENT BOWIE HYDROMULCHERS (New and Used) FLEXTERRA FGM HYDROBLANKETS BFM F4 NETTLESS ECB MULCH IT P.O. Box 100, Putnam, ON N0L 2B0 Tel: (519) 425-0342 • Fax: (519) 425-4195 www.mulchit.on.ca

FINN Hydroseeders & Bark Blowers New and Used • Flex Guard FRM • Soil Guard BFM • Erosion Control Blanket Seed & Fertilizer Toll free: (888) 298-9911 Fax: (905) 761-7959 www.fibramulch.com FOR SALE 2005 Chevrolet C5500 Truck with Dumpbox Diesel, 2-door, white exterior 81,459 kilometres Asking $28,999 Call Tony at (416) 882-6150

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING INFORMATION

Promoting the joys and benefits of our industry through: • Community projects and events • Public relations and education • Certification programs • Professionalism of its members

Spread the Green for Life message today

60 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010

All classified ads must be pre-paid by VISA or Mastercard. Rates: $42.00 (HST included) per column inch Min. order $45.20. 15% discount on ads run for entire calendar year. Box Numbers: Additional $10. Confidentiality ensured. Deadlines: 20th day of the month prior to issue date. (eg: June issue deadline is May 20th). January deadline is Dec. 1. Space is limited to a first come, first served basis. To advertise: E-mail your name, phone number and ad to Robert at classifieds@landscapeontario.com or fax to (905) 875-0183. Online advertising: Website only ads are available for $45.20 (HST included). Website ads are posted for 30 days and are limited to 325 words. View these ads and more online at: www.horttrades.com/classifieds

ADVERTISER’S INDEX COMPANY

PAGE

PHONE

WEBSITE

Braun Nursery Ltd................................................8........... 905-648-1911........................... www.braungroup.com Canadale Nurseries Ltd......................................63.......... 519-631-1008.............................. www.canadale.com Draglam Salt (G & L Group)................................3........... 416-798-7050......................... www.draglamsalt.com Hillen Nursery Inc............................................... 6-7..........519-264-9057 HortProtect...........................................................14.......... 888-949-4360............................www.hortprotect.com Landscape Safety................................................2........... 877-482-2323...................www.landscapesafety.com Legends Landscape Supply Inc.........................11.......... 905-638-5999....................... www.landscapestore.ca Limestone Trail Company Ltd.............................55.......... 905-563-8133........................www.limestonetrail.com Mankar Distributing Inc..........................................8........... 647-309-7826.................................... www.mankar.ca NewRoads National Leasing..............................11.......... 416-587-1021................. www.newroadsleasing.com

Landscape Ontario Annual General Meeting Join your fellow members on Wednesday, January 12, 2011 The International Ballroom at the Doubletree by Hilton Toronto Airport, 655 Dixon Rd, Toronto. Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. with the meeting to commence at 8:00 a.m.

Prosperity through engagement

R.M. Adams Trucking Ltd....................................61.......... 519-744-0151..........www.adamslandscapesupply.ca Sheehan’s Truck Centre Inc...............................52.......... 800-254-2859.................... info@sheehanstruck.com Sheridan Nurseries........................................... 2,62......... 888-676-2020................www.sheridannurseries.com Sipkens Nurseries Ltd.........................................52.......... 866-843-0438................. www.sipkensnurseries.com Stam Nurseries....................................................13.......... 519-424-3350.................... www.stamsnurseries.com Uxbridge Nurseries Ltd.......................................57.......... 877-655-3379................www.uxbridgenurseries.com Winkelmolen Nursery Ltd....................................10.......... 519-647-3912.........................www.winkelmolen.com Zander Sod Co Ltd..............................................13.......... 877-727-2100............................www.zandersod.com

Please RSVP Kathleen Pugliese at 1-800-265-5656 ext 309 or fax 905-875-3942 or email: kpugliese@landscapeontario.com by January 4, 2011.

HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010 61

Employment Opportunity Sheridan Nurseries … Whitby… is actively searching for an:

Assistant Manager of B 2 B Sales Position Summary This position involves daily supervision, training and monitoring of staff performance as well as the continued growth and development of the customer base for our Professional Supply Centre and Business 2 Business Sales (B 2 B). Accountabilities Applicants must be able to maintain a top level of customer care for existing/potential clients. The ideal candidate must possess strong marketing and interpersonal skills as well as a background in horticulture/landscaping. The ideal candidate will have experience in prospecting potential business with an entrepreneurial spirit. The candidate must be able to demonstrate excellent leadership and supervisory skills. Skills Required The ideal candidate will have an enthusiastic approach to customers, exceptional plant knowledge, and proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Excel and Word are essential; POS experience is an asset. This person will be required to work days, evenings, weekends and holidays as scheduled. A valid driver’s license is required for this position.

Apply to:

Erica Lowartz-Cozzarin Sheridan Nurseries 12302 10th Line R.R. #4 Georgetown, ON L7G 4S7

hr@sheridannurseries.com We thank all applicants for their interest however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

62 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010

Donna Webb receives the Upper Canada chapter’s trophy for Commercial Beautification from Dan Clost, president of the Upper Canada Chapter.

Chapter awards beautification trophy By Dan Clost CLT

The Upper Canada Chapter’s Trophy for Commercial Beautification went to Donna’s Country Gardens of Quinte West. The presentation took place in late September. Donna Webb operates a tea house, and offers garden walks through her landscaped property along the banks of the Trent River. One of her garden designers is LO member Lisa Purves of Lisa Purves Design. There was stiff competition for the award this year from seven other remarkable properties, making the 2010 version truly merited. The presentation marks the sixth year of a successful collaboration between the Trenton Garden Club and Horticultural Society and the Upper Canada Chapter. The trophy recognizes owners of commercial businesses who have enhanced their properties with landscaping and improved their community. In the photo, Donna Webb receives the trophy from Dan Clost, president of the Upper Canada Chapter.

Green Infrastructure Coalition calls for governments to invest in green projects Members of the Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition celebrated another step in its evolution on Nov. 22, when it launched a call for strategies from provincial and municipal governments to develop polices to invest in green infrastructure. Held at the Evergreen Brick Works in Toronto, approximately 150 people took part in the event, that also featured a tour of the facility, along with background about the Coalition, and guest speaker Gord Miller, Environmental Commissioner of Ontario. Landscape Ontario is a member of the Green Infrastructure Coalition, which also includes representation from Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests, Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, Toronto and Region Conservation, Ontario Parks Association and Evergreen. Taking the stage at the event, LO executive director Tony DiGiovanni stated, “Landscape Ontario believes that the future of our industry is bright, as long as we are able to tell our story of economic, environmental and societal benefit.” He went to add, “We need to dispel the myth that landscapes, gardens and green space are simply ornamental. What we do for a living is essential. It enhances and improves the quality of life in many ways. The Green Infrastructure Coalition will help us raise awareness for our industry’s value.” Accompanying the LO director on stage was Ontario Parks Association executive director Paul Ronan. He stated, “A recent study commissioned by the Ministry of the Environment, which looked at the benefits of implementing the Rouge River Watershed Plan in the GTA, estimated the net benefits of green infrastructure to existing and proposed communities ranged from $416 to $960 million.” A special presentation acknowledged the assistance of the Ontario Trillium Foundation to finance the Coalition’s strategy plan. In June, the Coalition received a $255,700 grant from the Foundation. The Coalition defines green infrastructure as everything from woodlots, wetlands, gardens, parks and urban forests to vegetative and water management technologies, such as green roofs and permeable paving.

Tony DiGiovanni, left, and Paul Ronan speak to the 150 gathered for the Green Infrastructure Coalition’s strategy launch at Evergreen Brick Works in the Don Valley.

Attention Independent Garden Centres:

CANADALE NURSERIES

wants to help you thrive in the new economy, here’s how: In 2011, your customers will be looking for deals more than ever, Let us help you plan your sale schedule in the winter. Use our Great Sale Plants to plan your weekly sale schedule. You need a Plan to be successful this coming year more than ever! Don’t count on unknown last minute sales.

Differentiate Yourself by Offering Unique Plants! In 2011, set yourself apart with unique plant material. Your customers will still want new and unique plants to make their yards their own. Canadale can help with its Specialty, Unique and New plant lists.

Let us Help You! In season, we offer weekly deliveries to the GTA, weekly emailed availabilities, tagging and pre-pricing, colour picture signage and posters, and much more to help you be successful.

269 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 3C4 Phone: (519) 631-1008 Fax: (519) 631-0818 E-mail: tji@canadale.com

HORTICULTURE REVIEW - DECEMBER 15, 2010 63

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A world full of knowledge gets you ahead of the competition. Connect with the industry's sharpest professionals at Congress Conference 2011

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