December 2018 HortTrades.com
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2 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2018
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Saying it in just a few words By Warren Patterson LO President
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just got back from a very intense, but productive strategic planning session, facilitated by Nathan Helder of Southbrook Consulting. In the room was a very diverse group of seasoned Landscape Ontario members and home office staff who were forced to take a hard look at the association’s core values, purpose, and vision for the next 24 months. We were also tasked with identifying and prioritizing the strategies required to then achieve that vision. As if that wasn’t enough, Nathan then challenged us to not only fit our value, purpose, vision and strategies into a concise, one-page document with the fewest words possible, but to also make that document simple enough for a sixth grader to understand. If it sounds simple enough, I need to repeat our task once again just to emphasize it was the hardest thing we had to do:
December, 2018 • Volume 36, No. 11 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 profession in Ontario. ISSN 1928-9553 Publications Mail Agreement No. PM40013519
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take our vision, ideas and thoughts and put them into the simplest of terms with the fewest words possible. Only then are we able to tell everyone what we want to do and how we are going to go about doing it. With that common understanding and direction, we are then all united in achieving our common goal. Going through such an extensive selfreflection process rarely produces any big surprises or sudden revelations. But what it does do is provide an intense focus on what is needed in order to achieve the overall vision. Our recent session was only the culmination of a very long process. Nathan began the strategic planning process by gathering information from LO’s past presidents. What better place to start than with the people who had the original vision, and who have the experience in working to make it into the success it is today. From there, Nathan gathered input from members, staff, sectors and chapters. He asked about LO’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (called a SWOT analysis). The input gathered revealed that labour is by far the biggest challenge our members face. Finding skilled, qualified, available labour is what keeps our
Editor Robert Ellidge rellidge@landscapeontario.com, 647-722-5645 Multimedia designer/IT coordinator Mike Wasilewski mikew@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5343 Sales manager Steve Moyer stevemoyer@landscapeontario.com, 416-848-0708 Account integrater Greg Sumsion gsumsion@landscapeontario.com, 647-722-6977 Communications coordinator Angela Lindsay alindsay@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5305 Accountant Joe Sabatino jsabatino@landscapeontario.com, 647-724-8585 Publisher Lee Ann Knudsen CLM lak@landscapeontario.com, 416-848-7557 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO STAFF Darryl Bond, Amy Buchanan, Kim Burton, Tony DiGiovanni CHT, Denis Flanagan CLD, Cassandra Garrard, J. Alex Gibson, Meghan Greaves, Sally Harvey CLT CLM CAE, Heather MacRae, Kathy McLean, Linda Nodello, Kathleen Pugliese, John Russell, Ian Service, Myscha Stafford, Tom Somerville, David Turnbull, Lissa Schoot Uiterkamp, Martha Walsh
Views expressed are those of the writer concerned. Landscape Ontario assumes no responsibility for the validity or correctness of any opinions or references made by the author. Copyright 2018, reproduction or the use of whole or any part of the contents without written permission is prohibited. Published 11x per year. Rates and deadlines are available on request. Subscription price: $43.51 per year (HST included). For subscription and address changes, please e-mail subscriptions@landscapeontario.com
members up at night and what is holding them back from reaching their goals. And members look to the association to help them solve this problem. This is not surprising. Finding skilled labour has been one of our foremost issues for over a decade. In many respects, this is not a bad problem to have. It means our services and products are in high demand. It means we are doing something right, but that as an association, we need to focus our thinking, energy and ideas on looking for new ways to deliver services to our members. We are fortunate that we have the staff, volunteers and resources available to achieve this vision. If we are successful in achieving our vision, we will have positioned the association well for the future. We will continue to be relevant to our members. I invite all LO members to attend this year’s Annual General Meeting on Jan. 9, 2019 to hear more details about our strategic vision for the future. Give your feedback, ideas and concerns. Listen to our simplified, yet important goal, and with just a few words, you too can help to achieve a more prosperous future for the landscape and horticulture profession. Warren Patterson may be reached at warrenpatterson@barriegardencentre.com
SPECIAL SECTION:
Landscape Ontario Annual Report Page 27
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FEATURES CONGRESS 2019 STUDENT DESIGN CHALLENGE
ASSOCIATION NEWS EVENTS NEW MEMBERS PROFESSIONAL NEWS COLUMNS ADVERTISERS CLASSIFIEDS
Cover image courtesy of Water’s Edge Landscaping.
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The educational offerings at Congress range from free one-hour demos, to full-day symposiums that start the day prior to the trade show.
Explore the world of Congress ‘19 Landscape Ontario’s Congress is THE annual trade show and conference for Canada’s horticultural and landscape professionals. As one of North America’s top-rated shows for the green industry, at Congress, you’ll find all the innovative expertise, ideas, products, peers and professional development to make your profits soar. Everything from the vendors on the trade show floor, to the entertainment at the Tailgate Party, is designed to connect you to the products and people in an environment geared for your personal and professional success. With all of the fantastic offerings of Congress, how do you know what to register for? Landscape Ontario magazine has broken it all down for you.
Trade Show Pass, valid January 8, 9 and 10
A trade show pass gives you access to over 10 acres of equipment, people and products on the trade show floor, free parking at the Toronto Congress Centre, free attendance to the LIVE! demo series
EARLY BIRD PRICING
(Hardscape LIVE!, Drive LIVE! and Green LIVE!), plus the New Product Showcase and the Tailgate Party on Wednesday evening. The trade show is open Tuesday and Wednesday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closes an hour earlier at 4 p.m. on Thursday. Early Bird Rate: $20 for members and $40 for non-members until Dec. 14.
One-Day Conference Pass, valid January 8 or 9 or 10
A One-Day Conference Pass gives you access to everything included in the Trade Show Pass, plus all-access to a full day of educational offerings on one day (either Tuesday, Wednesday or Education Partner Day Thursday), plus lunch on that one day (if attending on Tuesday or Wednesday). Conference sessions run 9:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. on Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, and 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Thursday. Early Bird Rate: $170 for members and $305 for non-members until Dec. 14.
Take advantage of discounted rates, save time and avoid line-ups on-site by pre-registering for Congress ‘19. Early Bird pricing available until Dec. 14. After that, pricing goes up!
4 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2018
Full Conference Pass, valid January 8, 9, 10
Make the most of your stay with access to all of the benefits of the trade show, plus full access to all three days of the Congress conference. Included is the luncheon keynote on Tuesday, where George Kourounis, host of Angry Planet and Royal Canadian Geographical Society Explorer-in-Residence, will help you face the storm of challenges in both your business and personal life. Be sure to attend some of the six available Owner Only Workshops throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, and check out the superb educational offerings of trade show exhibitors at the Thursday Education Partners sessions. Move freely throughout Congress with your Full Conference Pass and don’t forget to use the Congress App to mark the sessions and events you really want to attend. The App will then send timely notifications directly to your smartphone with enough time to get you to where you want to be. Early Bird Rate: $260 for members and $460 for non-members until Dec. 14. Group discounts are available for both the Full Conference Pass and One-Day Conference Pass. Every fifth employee registered from the same company will receive a free Full Conference Pass* or a free One-Day Conference Pass*.
To qualify, all employees must be registered at the same time. The group discount applies to purchases of Conference Passes only, and does not apply to trade show admission or special ticketed events. *Trade show admission is a separate ticket purchase.
Special ticketed events
One of the main purposes of Congress is to provide a single venue for landscape professionals to gather each year. With the landscape profession made up of so many different sectors, the number of networking and learning opportunities extend far beyond the hours of the trade show. A number of special ticketed events are held throughout the week and kick off with three featured events on Jan. 7 that make up Warm-Up Monday.
IPM Sympoisum (Jan. 7)
Landscape Ontario’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Symposium has been a uniquely respected event since 1965. The key to turf IPM is the use of cultural practices that optimize growth of grasses and minimize conditions favourable to pest insects, weeds, or pathogens. The symposium includes a full-day of technical sessions, lunch, and attendees can earn Continuing Education Credits (CECs) from the IPM Council of Canada. Your registration gets you access to the trade show and Tailgate Party. Early Bird Rate: $120 for members and non-members until Dec. 14.
Landscape Designer Conference (Jan. 7)
An initiative of the LO Landscape Designer Sector Group and presented with recognition from Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA), this event is a must-attend for all designers and architects. The fee includes a full-day of sessions, lunch, supplier showcase and closing reception. Sessions will qualify for OALA Continuing Education Credits. Your registration also gets you access to the trade show and Tailgate Party. Early Bird Rate: $140 for members and $190 for non-members until Dec. 14.
Peer to Peer Workshop (Jan. 7)
The LO Peer to Peer Network is a growing group of business owners and key managers who support each other and work together to find solutions to problems and issues within their own businesses and as a whole. Connected by member-based social media groups, the group will also set key learning objectives for the year ahead at this engag-
ing Congress session. This full day event includes lunch, and your registration gets you access to the trade show and Tailgate Party. Early Bird Rate: $120 for members until Dec. 14.
Building Your Dream Team! (Jan. 8)
Winning Workforce Development Strategies for Landscape Professionals is the title of this special session moderated by Michael Pascoe from Fanshawe College. Learn how to attract, engage, and retain the right employees for your business, and about the tools available to employers like the Apprenticeship Program and available grants and tax incentives. Registration for this morning event also gets you access to the trade show and Tailgate Party. Fee: $55 for members and $80 for non-members.
LO Awards of Excellence Ceremony and President’s Reception (Jan. 8)
For over 40 years, the talent and creativity of projects designed, built and maintained by members of Landscape Ontario are recognized via the Awards of Excellence program. Winners are announced live, on-stage during the inspiring and entertaining evening that starts at 5 p.m. with a wine and cheese President’s Reception. Early Bird Rate: Tickets are $65 per person for members or non-members until Dec. 14.
LO Annual General Meeting (Jan. 9)
Open to all members of Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association, the AGM begins with breakfast at 7 a.m. The AGM provides an overview of association activities over the past year, and seeks input from members on future priorities and initiatives.
Techo-Bloc Contractors Showcase (Jan. 10)
Register online at contractorshowcase. com for this free event led by one of the Congress Education Partners. Registration includes a full-day of technical sessions, lunch, trade show admission and Wednesday evening Tailgate Party.
Garden Centre Symposium (Jan. 9) The focus is on digital marketing for garden retailers at this annual event hosted by Landscape Ontario’s Garden Centre Sector Group. Registration for this half-day, Wednesday event, includes the morning workshop, networking lunch and Awards of Excellence ceremony for Garden Centre Program. Trade show admission and Tailgate Party are also included. Early Bird Rate: $75 for members or non-members until Dec. 14.
Come Alive Outside (Jan. 10)
What if people spent more time outside? Come Alive Outside facilitates collaborative community systems that create the awareness, intention, and opportunity for people to live healthier lives outside. Learn about their inspiring projects that involve and benefit schools and communities, such as the Come Alive Outside Design Challenge and Come Alive Outside Green Street Challenge. Free to all Congress badge holders, on a first-come, first-seated basis.
Contractor Lecture Series (Jan. 10)
An initiative of the LO Landscape Contractor Sector Group, this year’s lecture for designers, architects, contractors and other industry pros has co-located with Congress. Learn new ideas and valuable business lessons from two well-respected professionals as they walk you through some of their most memorable projects. Early Bird registrants will receive a complimentary Congress Trade Show pass. Early Bird Rate: $15 per ticket until Dec. 14. $20 per ticket after Dec. 14. For more information on what Congress has to offer, or to register, visit LOcongress.com.
NEW FOR 2019!
Many Congress exhibitors provide excellent education events to their customers. These exhibitors understand that their success depends on a prosperous and professional customer. This year, Congress is dedicating a limited number of rooms on Thursday for exhibitors interested in providing quality education. These educational partners will provide high-quality sessions with qualified instructors. These sessions will be available to all Full Conference and One-Day Conference Pass holders.
WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 5
Students brainstorm design elements to incorporate into the overall design.
Elementary school students help design new playground By Paige Parker Wentworth Landscapes
What is your favourite childhood memory? Was it sitting in your family room watching TV all day? Or was it going to the park to catch frogs in the stream? Maybe it’s climbing your favourite tree in your yard and seeing how much higher you can get each time. What about going outside after it rains to make mud pies and trying to convince your parents it’s actually chocolate? Whatever it may be, chances are your favourite childhood memories took place outside. And that’s the fuel that drives the efforts of Come Alive Outside (CAO). For the first time ever, this generation of children is expected to live five years less than their parents. Come Alive Outside is on a mission to get people off the couch and back into their communities. One of the ways they achieve this is through the annual Come Alive Outside Design Challenge. The CAO Design Challenge creates the opportunity for college, high school,
6 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2018
elementary and preschool students to work together with seasoned landscape professionals to design and build engaging, outdoor learning environments at schools and childcare facilities.
The Design Challenge started with a tour of another First Adventure Campus that Wentworth Landscapes had previously designed and built. This allowed the post-secondary students to see how children moved through and utilized the space. The rest of the evening was spent learning about the program, the why behind it, and getting inspired to create imaginative spaces for children to get excited about going outside.s
Day one
Day two
This year, Wentworth Landscapes hosted its third annual Design Challenge, Oct. 18-20, at Georges Vanier Catholic Public School in Belleville, Ont. The property also includes the First Adventure Childcare Development Centre. The post-secondary schools participating this year included: Guelph University, Algonquin College, and Niagara Parks School of Horticulture. A handful of students from the Landscape Design programs in each of these schools joined us for the three-day design charrette. The task of the students over the three days, was to design a landscape plan for the entire schoolyard at Georges Vanier that included an initial phase to be built in 2019 at First Adventure. They were also given a budget of $60,000 for the First Adventure portion.
On day two, the post-secondary students were taken to the schoolyard at Georges Vanier to tour the site and to gain insight as to how the schoolyard is currently being used, what the teachers think is missing, what is important to the students, and to even observe the children in their space. But who better to dictate what should be in the schoolyard than the children themselves? Following the tour, the post-secondary design students moved inside and began the initial design concepts with input from pre-kindergarteners through to eighth graders. This is one of the most inspiring components of the Design Challenge as you get to see imaginations run wild. Students are sprawled across the floor, with big sheets of paper and markers, and
Students of all levels learn and share with each other.
college students right there with them, unafraid of getting down to the kids level to imagine the space with them. The children drew zip-lines, tunnels, and obstacle courses with trampolines, sandpits, and even a Big Foot. Having all the elementary grades participate in the Design Challenge is so important because students of different age groups bring unique outlooks and experiences to the playground. On the flip-side, college students are exposed to a real-life experience. They have a real space to design with real challenges, a budget, design criteria, real clients, and above all, a real outcome. Once the younger students return to their classrooms, the college students begin working through the children’s sketches, asking themselves, “What are the main components?” For example, was it the zip-line? If so, what is the “why” behind that piece? What is the feeling that gives to the children? And, how can we apply that in a way that adheres to playground guidelines? Another element design students must also consider is that they are creating an experience in which children of all abilities can use and grow their skills. Some students are non-verbal, others have physical challenges. They must give all children an equal experience, also providing those with challenges an opportunity to communicate or move in ways they are able to. From there, students refine these concepts and start thinking about materials selection. One concept might be a sensory pathway system made up of many textures and colours that allows all students to access every part of the schoolyard. Another feature could include a way of tying play features back into curriculum, such as an outdoor classroom made of boulder seating that can also be played on at recess.
Day three
Creativity and imagination are encouraged throughout the process.
By the third day of the challenge, the design students, working in groups, must complete a finished site plan which will then be put on display at an open house. On October 20, roughly 300 people from Georges Vanier and the local community attended the open house to view the designs and vote on their favourite overall design, as well as their favourite components of each by using coloured stickers. Following the intensive three-day event, each college and university team then returned to their respective school and put together a final design and submission package that was due December 3. Wentworth Landscapes, Georges Vanier, and First Adventure are now in the process of reviewing those submissions and will select a winner that will be announced on January 8, 2019 at the annual Landscape Ontario Awards of Excellence ceremony.
The CAO Design Challenge is an energizing and exciting event that helps to inspire people to get outside and enjoy the outdoors while at the same time helping to boost their overall health and happiness within the community. It’s both rewarding and thrilling to see the original space reimagined through the fresh and creative minds of passionate students. It’s an opportunity for us to learn how young and aspiring designers approach spaces differently. The CAO Design Challenge is such a wonderful program because “it actually gets at the heart of what we do as horticulturalists and landscapers, because it’s tied into more than just beauty,” says Tony DiGiovanni, Executive Director of Landscape Ontario. “This actually gets into how people interact with nature and what the ultimate purpose of what we do for a living is - to make things better for people, and to leave a legacy for generations to come.”
Designs are showcased at an open house to the local community.
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ASSOCIATION NEWS
Unusually cool weather for early November did not put a damper on enthusiasm and support for the 13th annual Ottawa Chapter Day of Tribute, held Nov. 2 at the National Military Cemetery at Beechwood Cemetery, in Ottawa, Ont. This annual event focuses on a morning of maintenance of the grounds in preparation for Remembrance Day proceedings. This year, horticultural staff from Beechwood volunteered their time alongside volunteers and sponsors from the Ottawa Chapter. Introductions and thanks to the many volunteers were given by event chairperson, Pete Campbell, retired chief warrant officer, Canadian Armed forces Army Combat Engineer. Thank you to our title sponsor, Geosynthetic Systems; food and beverage sponsor, Bradley’s Commercial Insurance; product sponsors, Manderley Turf Products, Plant Products, Peter Knippel Nursery and Sipan Tires. Winner of this year’s gift certificate from Sipan Tires is Amber from GreenUnlimited. Thanks also to Beechwood Cemetery for sponsoring the new signage for this year’s event. Ottawa Chapter would like to thank the following companies and individuals that participated in this year’s
Ottawa Chapter continues tradition of honouring Canadian Military
Volunteers spent the morning maintaining the cemetery grounds.
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maintenance event: Geosynthetic Systems; Peter Smit & Sons; Green Unlimited; Natural Impression Landscaping; Weedman of Ottawa; Mr. T. General Contractors; Ottawa Chapter president, Steve Neumann; Manderley Turf Products; Nicholas McCarthy, Beechwood Cemetery; and the horticultural staff of Beechwood Cemetery. A place for all Canadians dedicated to honoring the men and women who have served both in times of war and in peace, the National Military Cemetery at Beechwood opened in 2001. The cemetery contains four sections: two Commonwealth War Grave sections, one section managed by Veterans Affairs Canada (Section 27) and the newest section, the National Military Cemetery of the Canadian Forces (Section 103), managed by the Department of National Defence. The cemetery is open to any military member and veteran, regardless of rank. The mission of the national military cemetery of the Canadian Armed forces is to provide a dignified and serene place of rest for fallen members of the military and their families. For this reason, the Ottawa Chapter continues to support the annual day of Tribute to the Canadian military and their families.
SNOW AND ICE OPERATIONS RISK MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES RELEASED
Marsh Consulting, in cooperation with the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA), and Landscape Ontario, recently released a new document containing guidelines to help Landscape Ontario’s snow and ice maintenance professionals to facilitate a consistent approach for the management of common risks. The Snow & Ice Operations Risk Management Guidelines was produced by Marsh Risk Consulting to support Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) and all associated provincial association members in the development of risk management programs with respect to snow and ice maintenance operations. The guidelines will become the basis for widely-distributed education campaign to ensure best practices for snow and ice removal operations. The guidelines can also be used as a self-assessment tool by snow and ice operation professionals. The collaborative development process included seeking input on scope and performance aspects of the tool from various CNLA members, and referencing various resources, codes and standards, namely:
• Smart About Salt Council (SASC). • Snow & Ice Management Association (SIMA). • Environment Canada (Best management practices for salt use on private roads, parking lots and sidewalks). • Transportation Association of Canada (Syntheses of Best Practices Road Salt Management). • Conservation Ontario and Ontario Good Roads Association. The guidelines are intended to be a simple and practical tool to assist users in effectively identifying, prioritizing, and managing / mitigating potential risks. Applying the outlined process will also serve to broaden the knowledge and understanding of risks. In addition, using a consistent approach will support the sharing of risk management strategies between CNLA members. This guide was designed with a process emphasis, hence is structured to be applicable at any stage of snow and ice maintenance activities. It is also intended to be complementary to current CNLA / Landscape Ontario tools and reference materials that also contribute input to managing risk. Canadian Nursery Landscape Association, Landscape Ontario and Marsh Risk
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ASSOCIATION NEWS Consulting would like to recognize the following organizations and individuals for their valuable time and professional input throughout the development of this Snow & Ice Operations Risk Management Guide: Jon Agg, Pristine Property Maintenance; Gerald Boot, Boots Landscaping; Megan Campbell, Marsh Canada; Lee Gould, Smart About Salt Council; Eric Hodgins, Region of Waterloo; Mark Humphries, Humphries Landscape Services; Robert Kennaley, Kennaley Construction Law; Jim Monk, Markham Property Services Limited; Luke Pallister, Marsh Risk Consulting; Brian Perras, BP Landscaping; Jamie Perras, BP Landscaping; Robert Roszell, Tuff Tech Bags; Terry Nicholson, Clintar. The guidelines can be downloaded via the HortTrades.com website in PDF format or in MS Word format for contractors to customize. Visit gfl.me/h4r6.
LONDON PLANT SYMPOSIUM TO RETURN IN 2019
Landscape Ontario’s London Chapter is proud to announce the return of their popular pre-spring event on February 8, 2019. The third annual London Chapter Plant Symposium will return to the Lamplighter Inn’s Crystal Ballroom in London, Ont. The event, which runs 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., features a full-day of expert speakers, and a vendor marketplace dedicated to plants. The event attracts a number of Fanshawe College landscape and horticulture students, landscape professionals, and is also open to members of the gardening public. Tickets for the event are $25 each and include a buffet lunch, door prizes, and access to four very popular and entertaining presenters: Jane Magri, registered clinical herbalist, yoga teacher and owner of Wildflower Farms; Bob Reeves, president and founder of Root Rescue Environmental Products; Jessica Robertson, owner and head grunt at Wild Craft Permaculture and co-owner of Village Compost; and
Paul Zammit, Nancy Eaton Director of Horticulture at the Toronto Botanical Garden. The event is sponsored by Baseline Nurseries & Garden Centre and the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA). Many sponsorship opportunities are available for the event, plus a limited number of vendor tables. For more information, contact Wendy Harry, at wharry@landscapeontario.com. Online registration is now open at HortTrades.com/LCPS-Registration. Special arrangements for bulk ticket sales can also be arranged by contacting Wendy Harry.
CONTRACTOR SHOWCASE EXPANDS CONGRESS EDUCATION MENU
“We want to help contractors differentiate, deliver greater value and become more profitable,” says an enthusiastic Alex Cadieux, business-to-business marketing manager for Techo-Bloc. The St.-Hubert, Que.-based company has signed on as a Congress Education Partner, and will offer its popular Contractor Showcase at Landscape Ontario Congress on Jan. 10. Over 12,000 paving pros attended the company’s Showcases last year, according to Cadieux. He says the event will be
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entertaining, offer learning in all forms and is staged with high production values. “We understand contractors’ challenges, and aim to provide solutions to push businesses forward, and grow the industry for the benefit of all.” Showcase sessions will be taught by management team members, who are all former contractors. Every summer, this team, including the president of TechoBloc, builds a real project at a real house to gain insights and first-hand experience on problems, and craft solutions that work. This team includes the main speaker slated for Congress, education director Peter Baloglou, nicknamed Paver Pete years ago by Bob Vila. These builds are filmed, and support the detailed visuals shown at the Showcase, as well as Techo-Bloc’s library of over 800 videos. Planned Showcase topics include: Porous Concrete Overlay, to tackle challenges posed by weak soils and high water tables; Feature-rich Landscapes, that allow contractors to upsell and cross-sell; Thinking Outside the Blocks, demonstrating new ways to use products that speed installation, create unique looks and solve common problems; The Base-ics, showing four base construction
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ASSOCIATION NEWS
The popular Techo-Bloc Contractor Showcase provides industry experts, installation techniques and more throughout several provinces and states.
methods for one project; Addressing the Labour Shortage, helping contractors get more out of teams, plus attract and retain talent; and Hardscaping in Today’s Rapidly-Changing Environment, offering insights on how to boost productivity, revenue and profits. Effective costing and pricing is a big challenge for paving contractors, and a major focus of the event. New this year is a presence by LMN during the event’s afternoon breakout sessions. Cadieux says, “This makes the morning’s learning way more tangible. For example, we show how machine-laying can boost efficiency by completing a job in 50 per cent of the time, requiring two people, not four.” Attendees will take home materials including the Techo-Bloc specifications guide, a 200-page technical guide known as the “Hardscaper’s Handbook.” Cadieux encourages attendees to come early at 7 a.m. and enjoy a hot breakfast along with networking. He says the event is so valuable that 70 per cent of audience members return year after year, and overall attendance grows by about 15 per cent each year. With this overall mission of boosting business success for contractors, Cadieux says Congress is a great partner.
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“I came to Congress when I was a sales rep 13 years ago, and I have been to every show since. Congress does a great job of getting people to turn out — Congress is a good kick-start to the season.” Seats at the Contractors Showcase on Jan. 10 are free to Congress attendees, but Techo-Bloc requests registration at contractorshowcase.com.
LIGHTING CONFERENCE TO SHOWCASE LATEST PRODUCTS AND TECHNOLOGY
The 10th annual Landscape Lighting Conference is scheduled for Jan. 31, 2019 at Lionhead Golf and Conference Centre, in Brampton, Ont. Located just north of Hwy. 407, the location proved to be a big hit with attendees last year. Landscape Ontario’s Landscape Lighting Sector Group hosts and plans the event, ensuring both the content and focus are relevant to seasoned contractors, and not just beginners. Several exhibitors will be in attendance, displaying new products and services just in time for the upcoming season. With the rapid pace of new technology, the conference is definitely the place to see the latest tools, products and
services available to lighting contractors and designers. This all-in-one event for lighting contractors includes important, informative sessions led by well-respected, and seasoned industry pros. Sessions will be held on: Safety (Fall Protection Work Plans and Dig Safe), ESA Permits, New Trends in Landscape Lighting, Lamp Demo and a Costing and Pricing Panel. Tickets for the event are $95 for LO members and $130 for non-members until January 18. Registration and more details are available at LightingConference.ca.
Sandy (Caroline) Nielsen. Proud grandfather, great grandfather and great-great grandfather. Fondly remembered by his golfing buddies John Hall and Jim McNeally. Sadly missed by many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. A Celebration of Life was held Nov. 4. In honour of Peter, donations to the PRHC foundation would be greatly appreciated. Online condolences may be made at comstockkaye.com.
IN MEMORIAM – PETER NIELSEN
“A lot of wise men and ladies — Paul Grobe, John Wright, and others — offered me a lot of insights.” Phil Dickie of Fast Forest, based in Kitchener, recently reflected on the benefits of LO membership, and characteristically turned the focus away from himself and toward others. Dickie has devoted countless hours of service to the association and the Waterloo Chapter. He is particularly proud of his 10-year leadership on the Waterloo Trade and Equipment Show. Phil and Peter Hummel worked to expand the show, that eventually found a home at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium. He
Peter Robert Nielsen passed away peacefully at Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC), on Oct. 26 at the age of 85. Nielsen served as president of the Ontario Nursery Trades Association in 1968, which went on to become one of the three associations that unified to become Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association in 1973. Beloved husband of Ruth Nielsen (née Duncan). Loving father of Rand (Barb), Reed, the late Kerri Nielsen and step-father of Nancy Inglehart (David). Dear brother of Robert “Bob” (Mary), Don (Marilyn), and
VOLUNTEER PROFILE PHIL DICKIE: GENTLEMAN VOLUNTEER
Proud to serve the Landscape & Horticulture industry
for over 25 years
Shortage of Trucks!
New trucks have become hard to come by, as the supply of 2018 models thins out and orders of the new 2019 models have been slow to come in. While the reasons for the shortage vary by model, some common issues have been parts shortages at the factory, delays caused by 2019 model year revisions and high demand from commercial industries. If you need a work truck for the spring, you may want to consider placing a factory order before the end of December.
Contact us so we can help you find and/or order the vehicle your business needs! 13-3245 Harvester Rd., Burlington, ON L7N 3T7 1-888-634-9559 lcatalano@niscocanada.com Laura Catalano President
niscocanada.com WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 13
ASSOCIATION NEWS named the show’s local focus, low people becoming more cost and social aspect as suctuned into environmencess factors. Proceeds supported tal issue. “Years ago, KidsAbility Centre for Child Develno one gave a thought opment, another source of pride. to cutting down a tree. Dickie also served on LO’s BrandToday, we are matching Committee during the ambimakers for trees, and tious rebranding process of 2007. even promote adoptions where we find Also gratifying to Dickie was new homes and move his work on the Champion Tree them.” Hunt, treehunt.ca. The effort raised A memorable event awareness of legacy trees in the for Dickie was an area and served as a template for Arbour Week red oak other communities. Dickie, who Phil Dickie planting at Queens called the effort a real pleasure, is Park with Premier David Peterson. At the quick to credit fellow volunteers Greg Templeman and Mike Hayes, and is grateful to time, activists were protesting logging in LO executive director Tony DiGiovanni for the Temagami area; they dogged the Premier’s appearances, drowning him out his effort on the website. with recordings of chainsaws. “I remember When starting out, Dickie remembers feeling quite sorry for him and also somejoining lots of associations to get his name what perplexed, as here he was trying out, even one for cemeteries. In his experience, he finds LO and ISA are the stronto promote the planting of trees with the gest voices. He believes in strong lobbying sound of chainsaws in the background. to make governments listen, and sees I guess politicians sometimes can’t even
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win for trying!” The always-positive Dickie appreciates his LO activities for the benefits he received in networking, friendships, fulfillment and self esteem. He also appreciates being part of the green profession: “How can you not love being in it? Everybody is smiling when you leave a site!” Dickie is retiring from Fast Forest, and is grateful to hand over responsibility to 22-year veteran Lucan Allin. “Something clicked. I lost a few friends who worked their whole lives, and I wanted to enjoy retirement while I was still healthy.” What is Phil Dickie’s favourite tree? “For coniferous, it would be the white pine, not just because it is Ontario’s official tree, but because I love its appearance even at maturity. And since fall is my favourite time of year, my choice for deciduous would be sugar maple for its multi-coloured foliage. Plus, I just realized these are native species, so I won’t get chastised by the ‘native species only’ people!”
EVENTS Jan. 7
Full details and registration information for all events can be found online at HortTrades.com/events or at specific chapter or sector pages.
Jan. 8
Feb. 1
Landscape Designer Conference Delta Hotels Toronto Airport, International Ballroom This full-day event includes lunch and a networking reception. Register at LOcongress.com.
Jan. 9
Feb. 6
Jan. 7
Jan. 10
IPM Symposium Toronto Congress Centre, Cohen Ballroom Attendees can earn up to six CEUs from the IPM Council of Canada. Register at LOcongress.com. Jan. 7
Peer to Peer Workshop Delta Hotels Toronto Airport, New York Room Business owners will learn how to find new team members, implement new ideas, and make them stick. Register at LOcongress.com. Jan. 8-10, 2019
Congress ’19 Toronto Congress Centre Canada’s Green Industry Show features over 600 exhibitors, live demonstrations and a full conference program. Visit LOcongress.com.
LO Awards of Excellence Ceremony Delta Hotels Toronto Airport, Plaza Ballroom Get inspired by the talent and creativity of LO members. Starts at 5 p.m. Purchase tickets online at LOcongress.com. Landscape Ontario AGM Delta Hotels Toronto Airport Enjoy breakfast, followed by an update on association activities. Contractors Lecture Event Toronto Congress Centre The annual networking and learning event for designers, architects and contractors will be held at Congress. Visit LandscapeLecture.ca. Jan. 31
Lighting Conference 2019 Lionhead Golf and Conference Centre, Brampton Don’t miss this all-in-one event for lighting contractors, featuring suppliers, new products and industry experts.
Irrigation Conference 2019 Lionhead Golf and Conference Centre, Brampton Get you and your staff prepared for the future of the irrigation profession in Ontario at this annual gathering. Nursery Growers Short Course 2019 Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington A full-day of informative speakers ranging on everything from the latest research reports to new products, innovative marketing techniques, and homegrown ideas to improve efficiency. Feb. 8
London Chapter Plant Symposium Lamplighter Inn, Crystal Ballroom, London Register at HortTrades.com/LCPS-Registration. Feb. 13
GreenTrade Expo EY Centre, Ottawa LO’s Ottawa Chapter presents Eastern Ontario’s premier green industry products and services showcase. For details, visit GreenTrade.ca.
BRAUN CONTINUOUS WIRE BASKETS
BETTER DESIGN BETTER WIRE BETTER FIT
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NEW MEMBERS DURHAM Lloyd’s Grounds Management Professionals Ltd Brian Cotter 1893 Regional Rd 3 Hampton, ON L0B 1J0 Tel: 905-263-2225 Membership Type: Active GEORGIAN LAKELANDS 1724057 ON Ltd/Atchison & Gibbons Concrete Ken Atchison 1082 Silver Lake Rd South Bruce Penninsula, ON N0H 7T0 Tel: 519-270-9394 Membership Type: Chapter Associate Dorian Landscape Darlene Prospero 1767 Wingrove Ave Innisfil, ON L9S 1S4 Tel: 705-737-7649 Membership Type: Active Dunn Capital Corporation Connor Dunn 300-40 Huron St Collingwood, ON L9Y 4R3 Tel: 705-888-6563 Membership Type: Chapter Associate
PSL Patrick Sprack Ltd Jason Fisher 119 Magill St Lively, ON P3Y 1K6 Tel: 705-692-3984 Membership Type: Chapter Associate
Toplift Enterprises Ken Smith 42 Pinelands Ave Stoney Creek, ON L8E 5X9 Tel: 905-662-4137 Membership Type: Associate
GOLDEN HORSESHOE GSM Landscape 723 Nancy Rd Fort Erie, ON L2A 6P8 Tel: 905-933-9878 Membership Type: Chapter Associate Invisible Install Inc/Hot Tub Movers.ca Paul Jinks 104 Main St N Campbellville, ON L0P 1B0 Tel: 416-884-9336 Membership Type: Associate Legendary Landscapes Cory Kaley 15-274 Concession 11 Hagersville, ON N0A 1H0 Tel: 519-203-1230 Membership Type: Interim
LONDON Creative Irrigation Solutions Inc Joseph Carter 125 Union Ave Komoka, ON N0L 1R0 Tel: 519-521-5120 Membership Type: Chapter Associate OTTAWA Frank Smith Contracting Ltd Frank Smith Box 41 Gilmour, ON K0L 1W0 Tel: 613-969-8718 Membership Type: Chapter Associate TORONTO Aurora Auto Collision & Repairs Rassam Rafigh 91 Edward St Aurora, ON L4G 1W1 Tel: 647-713-1235 Membership Type: Chapter Associate
Re gis te rT od ay !
CONFERENCE FEBRUARY 1, 2019
Lionhead Golf and Conference Centre
8525 Mississauga Rd, Brampton L6Y 0C1
REGISTER TODAY! January 31, 2019
An initiative of
ALL IN ONE EVENT FOR LIGHTING CONTRACTORS! Join industry peers and learn about lighting industry specific issues. Meet with suppliers to find out about new products and technologies at this annual conference.
LIGHTINGCONFERENCE.CA
Are you and your staff prepared for the future of the Irrigation profession in Ontario? Join your peers at the 2019 edition of the Irrigation Conference. Content intended for Landscape Irrigation Contractors.
IRRIGATIONCONFERENCE.CA
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Edgar Howden & Sons Ltd Gillian Murray 301 Wheelabrator Way Milton, ON L9T 3C1 Tel: 905-878-5460 Membership Type: Chapter Associate Let it Rain Ltd Bruno Levesque 15-5456 Tomken Rd Mississauga, ON L4W 2Z5 Tel: 905-795-0212 Membership Type: Chapter Associate Urban Paradise Landscaping Inc Johnny DeSimone 33 Willow Tree St Maple, ON L6A 2S2 Tel: 416-989-5393 Membership Type: Active Xterra Landscapes Inc Tyler Cosentino 46 Hawkridge Ave Markham, ON L3P 1V9 Tel: 647-444-1154 Membership Type: Active WATERLOO Gro-Pro Lawn Care Ltd Marvin Schaus D-112 Bonnie Cres Box 72 Elmira, ON N3B 2Z5 Tel: 519-669-1278 Membership Type: Active
J&J Property Maintenance Jamie Sheppard 8 Lake Rd Cambridge, ON N3C 2V4 Tel: 519-616-1572 Membership Type: Interim VDCM Architectural Woodwork Inc Timothy Stevanus 835 Sawmill Rd Bloomingdale , ON N0B 1K0 Tel: 519-743-4409 Membership Type: Associate Winser Doors Sean Carragher 459 Highland Park Cambridge, ON N3H 3H9 Tel: 519-716-5772 Membership Type: Chapter Associate
Keep in touch with
LANDSCAPE
ONTARIO Join our discussion forum
http://linked.in/LOLinkedIn
@LOassocMag @LOMembership @TonyDiGiovanni1 @denisflanagan @green_for_life @LOevents
WINDSOR Tilbury Concrete Inc Ernie Mailloux 2-3129 Marentette Ave Windsor, ON N8X 4G1 Tel: 519-966-1931 Membership Type: Associate
www.facebook.com/ landscapeontario
josh.sparks@expresswaytrucks.com
www.expresswaytrucks.com Expressway Trucks Windsor 3817 Essex Rd 46, Maidstone, ON. N0R 1K0
Expressway Trucks Waterloo 2943 Cedar Creek Rd, Ayr, ON. N0B1E0
Expressway Trucks London 125 Towerline Place, London, ON. N6E 2T3
WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 17
PROFESSIONAL NEWS Canada Blooms to inspire gardeners in 2019
New plants by Ontario growers continue to be a focus at Canada Blooms.
The 23rd edition of Canada Blooms, the Toronto Flower and Garden Festival, will take place at the Enercare Centre in Toronto, March 8-17, 2019. The theme of this year’s Flower and Garden Festival is “A Family Affair!” Co-located with the National Home Show, Canada Blooms offers visitors the latest products, trends and plants for the upcoming gardening season. Over the 10-day festival, dozens of landscaping, horticulture and floriculture experts present over 200 seminars and workshops via three stages. Among the regulars on stage will be Ben and Mark Cullen, who recently announced the Mark’s Choice brand has become the five-year title sponsor of Canada Blooms. This year’s festival will include more flowers than ever before, including a display from Proven Winners; Canada Blooms Plant of the Year, Electric Love Weigela from Van Belle Nursery; and the first chance for the gardening public to view new plants tested at the University of Guelph Trial Gardens in 2018. On March 15, 20 amateur and professional florists have been invited to compete in an imposed class live on the show floor. Each florist will receive an
Re gi st er to da y!
Contractor lecture series CO-LOCATING WITH CONGRESS 2019
February 27, 2019
Toronto Congress Centre 650 Dixon Rd, Etobicoke, ON M9W 1J1
8525 Mississauga Rd, Brampton L6Y 0C1
Thursday, January 10, 2019 - 1:15 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
LIONHEAD GOLF AND CONFERENCE CENTRE
Join your peers for creative inspiration, education and networking!
LandscapeLecture.ca
REGISTRATION Early Bird Registration until December 20: $15 per ticket after December 20: $25 per ticket*
*Early bird registrants will recieve a complimentary Congress Trade Show Pass An initiative of the Landscape Contractor Sector Group of Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association
Join your peers for education, networking and lunch! LandscapeLecture.ca
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identical box of items and will have three hours (from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) to create something live for all to see. Licensed judges will then score the creations and announce the winner. Canada Blooms General Manager, Terry Caddo says, “It will be really interesting to see how well the amateurs fare, as they have all won previously at World Association of Floral Artists (WAFA) competitions. The public will be in awe of their creativity and skill.” A separate design team has been busy working on a brand new entrance to the show that will immerse visitors, courtesy of Bruno Duarte, Fresh Floral Creations. A Canada Blooms Professional Florist in previous years, Duarte recently represented Canada at the Singapore Garden Festival. Landscape Ontario and Come Alive Outside are partnering to create a Green Street at Canada Blooms. The Green Street Garden will highlight the physical and mental benefits of the diverse landscapes in our communities. This garden is aimed at promoting “green time,” not screen time. The garden is made possible through support of partners Nursery Sod Growers Association
(NSGA) members. The Green Street Garden promises to be a place where both kids and kids at heart can take a few minutes to play in a setting that inspires
creativity and wonder. For more information, visit the festival website at CanadaBlooms.com.
Time to earn recertification credits landscape industry
Landscape Industry Certified professionals recognize the relevance and importance of certification. Recertification is how those individuals continue to grow, adapt and evolve to both meet and set the standards for the profession. In order to renew your certification, individuals must show they have kept current in the profession by earning 24 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every two years. These credits are tracked by the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA), and can be obtained by attending seminars or workshops, volunteering for industry events, and judging at certification tests. Speaking, writing and reading books can also count toward CEUs. Individuals who do not earn 24 CEUs every two years and let their recertification lapse for over a year beyond the recertification date need to rewrite only the written component of the certification, and pay the cost of the full registration fee, in order to have their certified status reinstated. A number of forms for submitting the various types of recertification credits can be found on the CNLA website at cnla.ca/training/recertification. There is a fee of $75 plus HST every two years, plus the submission of CEUs. For more information, contact the CNLA office at 1-888-446-3499 or email certification@cnla-acpp.ca.
certified
party '19
WED. JANUARY 9th
Monday January 7, 2019
Tried, Tested and True Join this interactive workshop — networking with other business owners just like you, for real-time frank discussions on business.
Jacki Hart, CLM Consulting By Hart
REGISTRATION FEES $120 for Members until December 14 $160 for Members after December 14 Held in conjunction with Congress ’19. Visit LOcongress.com to register or for more information.
Join your fellow Congress delegates for a fun-filled evening! Delta Hotels Toronto Airport, Plaza Ballroom (upstairs), 5:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Your trade show badge is your admission ticket. That’s right; no fee to attend!
WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 19 Peer to peer quarter page ad.indd 1
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EXECUTIVE DESK Strategic plan for the future Mark Bradley, Jennifer Lemcke, Christine Moffit, Michael Gucciardi and Jamie Perras, spent two days reviewing the feedback and dreaming of the future.
Tony DiGiovanni CHT LO Executive Director
L
andscape Ontario is one of the largest and most active landscape associations in the world. Our long-term success is due to two main reasons. First, we are blessed with amazing members. It started with our pioneers and continues to this day. They contribute to the association that represents their core values. They inspire each other. Second, we are planning- and goal-oriented. I remember when our first strategic plan was developed back in 1990. It became a prophetic document. Much of the plan came true. From a staff perspective, it made our job easy. From a member recruitment perspective, it was a useful tool to help new members understand why we exist. Recently, that strategic plan was revisited. LO’s Board of Directors hired Southbrook Consulting to facilitate an update. Many of you were involved. Your input regarding the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT analysis) facing the profession provided the framework for the Strategic Planning Committee. Committee members, Dave Wright, Warren Patterson, Mark Humphries, Gregg Salivan, Paul Brydges, Lindsay Drake Nightingale, Kimberly Khoury, Lindsey Ross, Gerald Boot, Michael Garcia, Carmine Filice,
Core values
Although rapid change is fact of business life, one constant is our core values. They are the foundation that keeps us grounded, provide direction and help us make correct decisions. These values link all members together and we seek to attract members that reflect these values. The committee observed four core values that reflect and infuse our membership. Community: We are a community for mutual benefit and improvement. We believe that collaboration is better that isolation. We enjoy networking and sharing with our fellow members. We create a safe place for the exchange of information. Professionalism: We believe that education, knowledge and mastery are what give us credibility. We continually strive to “raise the bar.” We believe that character is essential in building trust in the profession. We strive to be honest and trustworthy. We value integrity. Stewardship: We care about people, employees, customers, each other and the planet. We believe in fiscal and environmental responsibility. Leadership: Leaders assume responsibility and ownership. They “walk the walk.” They believe in serving others. Volunteerism and giving back is natural. Contributing to the betterment of others has inherent rewards.
Why do we exist? What is our purpose?
When it came time to discuss why we exist as an organization, the conversation became lively and spirited. There were so many answers. In the end, we agreed the simple purpose of Landscape Ontario is “to advance the industry.” We used the word “industry” instead of “profession,” because it is a broader term that encompasses the many interrelated and diverse occupations that work together to create landscapes. It is important to still use the word “profession” when appropriate, because it gives value and meaning to what we do.
Our 25-year stretch goal
We want to be the “number one resource to the industry, resulting in 80 per cent of the market within 25 years.” Currently, we represent about 35 per cent. We have a long way to go, however, focusing on becoming an indispensable resource for the members will naturally lead to continued growth.
Our two-year goal
“Landscape Ontario will become a hub for creating a sustainable career.” The largest barrier to growth of our profession is workforce development. Members often can’t keep up with the demand for their services due to a lack of human resources. We want to become the “career of choice.” We want employees to work for “employers of choice.” This is easy to say, but difficult to do, but it must be done in order to ensure our future. Our job as an association is to “advance the industry.” Workforce development is key to that advancement.
How are we going to achieve our goals?
The strategic plan outlines details under five headings: investment, education, communication, marketing, and technology. Over the next few years, we will:
DESIGN, CONSTRUCT, MAINTAIN YOUR
PRESENTING PARTNER:
SUPPORTING PARTNERS:
Legacy
you ,re invited to the Awards ceremony horizontal quarter page ad.indd 1
20 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2018
AWARDS CEREMONY AND PRESIDENT’S RECEPTION TUESDAY JANUARY 8, 2019 5:00 pm Plaza Ballroom, Delta Hotels Toronto Airport
AN INITIATIVE OF
LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND DESIGN WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED! 11/23/2018 11:12:37 AM
Develop and implement a profitable hiring hall model. The hiring hall will create benchmarks, set wages and benefits, develop industry standards, and collaborate with institutions. We will create the conditions to become the “career of choice.” We will provide “employers of choice” with the skilled people they need. We will seek to eliminate seasonality in the workforce. We will recruit youth into the hiring hall by ensuring they are provided with meaningful work and the opportunity to continually enhance their knowledge and skills. Perform a technology audit of the association. Our existing programs and processes will be examined to ensure we have access to the tools required to understand our member’s needs and behaviour, so we can provide the very best service. It is important that our decisions are based on credible data. Develop a strategy to attract newcomers and youth (aged 15 to 24) to our industry. We will seek professional assistance to help tell our story to young people. We will also understand the future of landscaping. Manual labour will eventually be replaced with technology and machines. Robotic lawnmowers and vacuum lift tools provide a glimpse of the future. The skill set required will be different. We will seek to
communicate the future to the future members of the industry. Develop a Top 100 Employers of Choice Awards Program. By creating awareness for leading edge techniques and processes for recruiting and retaining employees, we hope to inspire others to elevate their business so employees will seek them out. Bring training to the members. We will expand partnerships with suppliers across the chapters and sectors to bring quality education and training opportunities to every community. Some suppliers already have the location and resources to deliver strong education. We will work with everyone who shares our goal to become “prosperity partners.” We will explore distance-learning technology to further improve education accessibility. (Video, live-streaming, webinars, virtual classrooms, etc.). Improve engagement within our communications channels. Currently, we over-communicate using every available tool, from print to social media. We will seek to understand the preferences of each individual member, so that our communications are valued and targeted. Custom communication is our goal. The messages will be for member benefit. We are hoping
improved communication and conversation with our membership will increase our renewal rate from 95 to 98 per cent. Our goal is 10 per cent annual membership growth. Develop marketing materials to attract youth (15-25). We seek to connect with youth, parents, teachers and guidance counselors at high schools and colleges. We will let them know about the career opportunities available in our profession. Continue to promote the Apprenticeship Program. In the last three years, we have focused on employers to encourage them to sponsor apprentices. This has been met with moderate success. In the future, we will focus directly on youth and employees. We will attract them to our hiring hall and take responsibility for their progress and development. Unify and engage the membership by communicating the values, strategies and tactics in this strategic plan. Study the way technology will shape the future of our industry/profession and seek to utilize all tools available to listen to our membership and to advance the industry. Tony DiGiovanni may be reached at tony@landscapeontario.com.
CONNECT@ CANADA’S PREMIER GREEN INDUSTRY TRADE SHOW AND CONFERENCE
Download our FREE event App from the App Store or Google Play. Organize your Congress visit with a touch — up-to-date info at your fingertips. Visit App.LOcongress.com to get started.
Nursery Growers SHORT COURSE Wednesday, February 6, 2019
Royal Botanical Gardens, 680 Plains Road W., Burlington, Ont.
Exciting updates on nursery research, including tools to improve nursery production. REGISTRATION
#LOCONGRESS
CANADA’S PREMIER GREEN INDUSTRY
TRADE SHOW & CONFERENCE Follow us on:
Early Bird Registration until January 30:
$90 $100 $50 $35
Registration after January 30:
Member $100 Member Potential Members $110 Potential Member Horticultural Educator $50 Horticultural Educator Students (must be pre-registered, pre-paid)
Register online at:
horttrades.com/nursery-growers-short-course-2019
Includes sessions, continental breakfast, lunch, refreshments and exhibits.
Innovative Production Practices, Market Trends and so much more! WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 21 Congress app quarter page ad.indd 1
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11/23/2018 12:44:44 PM
PUBLIC RELATIONS
Present
Today we are witnessing the garden centre sector going through tremendous change. Some business operations are closing altogether, since the land they occupy is valuable real estate to developers who are keen to purchase it. Other companies have changed their marketing strategy and are catering more to the landscape contractor by adjusting their hours of business, carrying larger sized nursery stock, and supplying bulk products. The stores that choose to remain in a strictly retail environment have expanded their product lines to include gift items, clothing, and in some cases, even specialty plants such as tropicals, bonsai, alpines, hydroponics and specialty fruits and vegetables. We certainly saw this diversity while judging the independent garden centre entries in this year’s LO Awards of Excellence program. Garden centres are striving to become destination spots with unique products and holding many special seasonal events.
Yet to come
A thumbs up from eieihome’s Adam Brandon (left) and LO’s Denis Flanagan in between filming at Tree Valley Garden Centre in Stouffville, Ont.
Past, present and yet to come By Denis Flanagan CLD LO Manager of Membership and Public Relations
I
recently shot a video in the greenhouse of a Landscape Ontario garden centre member that gave some seasonal decorating tips to homeowners. In between takes, I had time to chat with the owners of the company and reflected on my own personal involvement with the garden centre sector, as well as some of the major changes that have taken place over the last few decades.
Past
Over 30 years ago, I was initially hired as a landscape designer for the familyowned Weall and Cullen garden centre business. My job was basically to design fairly simple planting plans for customers. My renumeration was based on commis-
sion of plant sales. I personally found this a great motivator, and it forced me to set business and personal goals, which to this day, have helped to shape my future. At Weall and Cullen, I was in good company, with the likes of Paul Olsen, Bob McCannell, Barry Benjamin, Art Vanden Enden and Scott Beaudoin, all of whom became very successful and remained great contributors to Landscape Ontario. After a few years, and with the encouragement of Mark Cullen I was given the responsibility of running the expanded landscape division. At its peak in the 1980s, our division contained 20 landscape designers and 10 authorized installers, with plant sales of over $2 million. Many of the designers (Janet Ennamorato, Beth Edney and Wendy Boyle), went on to create their own design companies, and continued to expand their skills by attending seminars and conferences offered by Landscape Ontario. Since those Weall and Cullen days, landscape designs have become sophisticated and quite technical, often with an emphasis on hardscaping elements.
22 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2018
The ongoing competition with the mass merchants means independent garden centres will have to continue emphasizing their strengths, quality products, knowledgeable staff and great service in order to be of value. With the rapid pace of technology, whether it be inventory control or social media marketing, independents will have to adapt and embrace. The recent legalization of cannabis in Canada is already starting to make an impact on plant retailers. With acres upon acres of greenhouse space now devoted to cannabis production, other, more popular gardening plants may be in shorter supply. We all know that supply affects pricing, so depending on who you ask, this latest trend could simply cause a blip, or create a long-term market shift. Only time will tell. The shortage of available labour is an increasing concern to all sectors of our profession. Landscape Ontario’s recent strategic planning sessions identified this shortage as the number one issue that we, as an association have to address. Whether it is current buying trends, plants, marketing, or labour, the many conference sessions and sector-specific events at Congress will have something of interest for you. Stop by the LO membership booth at Congress and give us your thoughts and ideas. We hope to see you there. Denis Flanagan can be reached at dflanagan@landscapeontario.com or at 905-875-1805, ext. 2303.
MEMBERSHIP Top Eight association topics of 2018 By Myscha Stafford LO Membership and Chapter Coordinator
2
018 was a whirlwind of a year. The only certainty was the uncertainty of the weather, As I look back over the past 11 months, a number of memorable topics/events captured the headlines. Here are my Top Eight association topics of 2018:
The move
In late spring, Landscape Ontario’s staff were told the major renovations planned for the home office in Milton would start in July. Our dream of providing a revitalized hub to better serve members would become a reality. LO staff packed up (and sorted through decades worth of stuff!) and moved out, into temporary offices on the other side of Milton, at 470 Bronte Street South. While in our close quarters with some interesting neighbours, we anxiously await the unveiling of our newly renovated building in 2019.
Bill 148
Major changes to employment laws in the province took effect on Jan. 1, 2018, then slowly reverted as the year progressed (and will continue to do so in 2019). The hype around the new legislation began in 2017, came to a head early in 2018, and within a year is planning to be scrapped. With the new, Making Ontario Open for Business Act, minimum wage has been held at $14 per hour, along with changes to paid days of absence from work.
Salt shortage
In summer, while most of us did not even want to acknowledge the eventual arrival of snow, LO’s Snow and Ice Management Sector Group was faced with finding a reliable supply of salt, increased costs for any they could secure, and communicating that reality to clients. Winter arrived earlier this year, making the lack of available salt products even more of a challenge. For a list of articles and resources on the issue, visit HortTrades.com/salt-shortage-resources-page.
Cannabis legislation
October saw the legalization of cannabis in Canada. While a zero tolerance policy exists for the workplace, employers must also make special accommodations for employees who have a prescription for medical marijuana. Templates for dealing with possible impairment in the workplace can be found at HortTrades.com/ impairment-policy-and-reporting-templatesfrom-ccohs. Legalization of cannabis has impacted the green profession in many ways. Licensed growers need suppliers, labour and most importantly, greenhouse space. Why grow poinsettias when you can grow pot?
LO Awards of Excellence
The responsibility of running LO’s annual Awards of Excellence program has returned to staff of the association’s Membership Department. We had a record number of entries this year, with over 300 submissions. Our judges were impressed with the quality of work and creativity demonstrated by year’s entries, and we can’t wait to unveil the winners at the awards ceremony on the Tuesday evening of Congress (Jan. 8).
Highway of Heroes Living Tribute
This year at Canada Blooms, the provincial government, under Premier Kathleen Wynne, pledged $1 million in support of the Highway of Heroes Living Tribute campaign. By the end of the year, 90,000 trees will have been planted along the stretch of highway from Trenton to Toronto. The campaign continues to grow toward its goal of planting two million trees. Why not gift a tree for Christmas? A $150 donation will get you a Hero Tree, which will be planted in honour of a Canadian soldier who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country, and you also get a certificate which can be provided in the name of a loved one on your shopping list.
retain quality staff while also benefiting from available grants and tax credits. The Apprenticeship program saw solid growth this year, with the highest enrolment numbers since LO committed the resources of a full-time staff member to help members register for the program. If you have questions about the program or have staff you would like to register, please contact Alex Gibson at jagibson@ landscapeontario.com.
Membership
The Landscape Ontario community continued to grow throughout 2018. While the many financial discounts are an attractive incentive to join, the feedback we have received from our new members is that the networking and professional development opportunities are actually the main reasons they decide to join our LO family. Your membership team will continue to provide new and exciting programs in 2019. As we look toward a new year, I would like to thank all of the Chapter Boards and volunteers for working so hard to plan wonderful meetings and events for our members. Thanks also to all of the members who attend and support these events, and continue to support Landscape Ontario. It has been incredible to see the hard work of our members, not only in their own businesses, but also in the countless projects they have dedicated their time and efforts into making them a success. Thank you! For upcoming chapter events, and member benefits, visit HortTrades.com or contact me at the LO office. Happy holidays and I hope to see you at Congress. Myscha can be reached at myscha@landscapeontario.com or 1-800-265-5656 ext. 2333.
Apprenticeship
Finding and retaining quality staff has been at the forefront of every business owner’s mind this year. Ontario’s Horticultural Technician Apprenticeship Program is a great way for employers to WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 23
UNDERGROUND WORLD Who does more damage: homeowners or professionals? By Terry Murphy CLM
T
he question of who causes more damage to underground infrastructure, homeowners or contractors, is always a point of contention with members of the damage prevention industry. The Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance (ORCGA) publishes statistics annually in the DIRT Report (Damage Information Reporting Tool). The main purpose is to measure if efforts to reduce the number of hits is effective. Last month, I looked at statistics for homeowners who are responsible for about 15 per cent of all utility hits. This month, I will look at the landscape sector and compare it to statistics for homeowners. You would think that as professional landscapers, the number underground hits would be much lower than in the public sector. Landscape contractors have more experience, are familiar with excavation requirements and laws, and have many operating procedures in place that incorporate locate requests.
Homeowner trends
Table 1 shows that homeowner hits in 2017 are down to 631. This equates to 12.3 per cent of the total hits in Ontario. There is also a downward trend on the total number of hits for homeowners over the past five years. This is exactly the results ORCGA efforts are trying to accomplish. Homeowner hits have gone down
from 18 per cent of the total industry hits, down to 12 per cent in only four years. This is solid improvement is in part due to advertisements Enbridge Gas Distribution as included with their monthly invoices. (see graphic).
Comparison criteria
When comparing sectors, we generally consider two key statistics: one is the actual number of hits in that sector, and the other is the percent of total industry hits. Both of these two statistics have to be considered at the same time in order to get a true comparison between the sectors. Total industry hits can also be a reflection of the overall economy. The more construction projects in progress, the more utility hits occur.
Homeowners
Table 1 shows that year after year, there is a steady decline in the number of hits for homeowners. But for the industry, there is no clear trend. However, if you look at the homeowner hits compared to the total industry hits, you will also see a steady downward trend. It is not significant — only about one per cent each year. But this is great news and would lead me to believe that advertising and promotional initiatives aimed at educating the public are working.
Landscape pros
Table 1 shows us the actual number of hits for the landscape sector is about half the number of homeowner hits
(338 vs. 631). Our previous assumption of professionals being more experienced, skilled and aware construction practices and laws holds true. But the interesting statistic here is that the percentage of hits that landscape pros are responsible for overall remains about the same, around 6.7 per cent each year. While homeowners continue a downward trend, pros are neither improving or getting worse.
Conclusion
Over the past five years, homeowners have been responsible for about 15 per cent of the total industry hits, while the landscape sector has averaged about seven per cent. The ORCGA’s goal is to see both sectors achieve solid reductions over the next couple of years. Regardless of the success, both sectors continue to be worthy of attention.
Companies who are serious about reducing the number of hits and improving the safety of their employees can help by becoming a member of the ORCGA. Membership includes many benefits, including access to education, resources, and events. For companies with under 20 employees, the annual membership fee is only $125. For more information, contact Jennifer Parent at the ORCGA office at 1-866-446-4493. And don’t forget to include damage prevention, Dig Safe and ON1CALL subjects of your company’s regular safety meetings. Terry Murphy can be reached at tvmurphy@ca.inter.net.
TABLE 1 YEAR ACTUAL TOTAL HOMEOWNER HITS % LANDSCAPER LANDSCAPER HOMEOWNER INDUSTRY OF TOTAL INDUSTRY TOTAL HITS AS % TOTAL HITS HITS HITS HITS INDUSTRY HITS 2012 857 4853 17.7% 369 7.6% 2013 906 5006 18.1% 334 6.7% 2014 623 3872 16.1% 258 6.7% 2015 651 4695 13.9% 318 6.8% 2016 599 4597 13.0% 351 7.6% 2017 631 5149 12.3% 338 6.3%
24 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2018
PROSPERITY PARTNERS The curious entrepreneur By Jacki Hart CLM Prosperity Partners Program Manager
O
ver the past five columns, we’ve learned about some skills required by successful entrepreneurs. This month, we conclude with Curiosity. I’ve yet to see a stable business that exists in a vacuum. There are constant changes affecting every business. These include: the marketplace, technology, staff, legislation, trends, talent, available resources, sophistication, goals, etc. I’ll share the story of a restaurant in my town as an example of an entrepreneur who lost his curiosity (and his business). The business started as a catering and frozen food take-out. Then he was curious to see what would happen if he added a few tables and service for lunch and dinner. Then he added breakfast. When business waned, he realized it. Curious, he researched how he could enliven his wellestablished customer base. He re-branded to a ‘bistro’ type restaurant, offering a fabulous menu for three meals a day. It became one of the hottest ‘go-to’ places in town for an upscale meal, business meetings, or couples looking for a relaxed, quiet, delicious meal. He continually scanned for creative new ways to improve his recipes and business skills. He developed themed events and the business continued to
thrive — with a customer base excited and always looking to his his next new offering. Ten years went by. Other fine dining restaurants opened up in town. Competition became a threat. Nothing changed in his restaurant, other than a fair amount of ‘dissing’ the competition to his patrons. The odd tweak to the menu brought little excitement from customers. Online ratings were favourable, but few and far between — drawing a predominantly 55+ aged crowd — perhaps not interested in posting pictures to Instagram, Pinterest and Trip Advisor. Frustration of the owner became evident to patrons. Empty tables dominated. After a month closure for vacation, and a family tragedy, the restaurant closed down. A career and lifelong business simply got tired and closed without saleability or return on the owner’s investment. He had lost his curiosity and drive to innovate and adapt, in an industry where refreshing an image and menu is required for success. Here are three key takeaways to keep you challenging your business status quo: 1. Innovate: In today’s fast changing marketplace and consumer sophistication, those businesses which constantly innovate will stay ahead of the pack. Innovation requires you to have a keen sense of what needs to change, in what way, and when. Keeping your eye on the vision and desired outcomes will help to guide innovative directions. Engaging your team to apply their creativity toward the company potential is a huge part of the millennial contribution. Entrepreneurs
can either lead innovation or engage their team to be the innovators. In both cases, knowing what available resources and market demand is out there will keep the power of curiosity on your side. 2. Customize: This sometimes requires you to slow down in order to go faster. There will be times when your business will benefit from customization of software, data management, processes, systems, policies, and apps or technology available. Many business owners are so mired in their day-to-day operations, they can’t even get a glimpse of the forest for the trees. Trust that there is a huge payback in the potential of your time invested to step off the company treadmill, regroup and map a more effective path forward with customized solutions. 3. Adapt: Adapting on-the-fly requires that resilience and curiosity combined. Being able to adapt to current performance (either people or brand or profit) and push on ahead with tweaked solutions is paramount to success. Stay stuck in the old patterns, fail to adapt to changing conditions and you’re heading for the cliff. Even the Millennial workforce has carved out the need for new recruiting and onboarding styles. Emphasis of recruiters has to shift to meet this demographic. If you don’t, you’ll be overworking your team and be faced with expensive empty seats on the bus. Often, it takes a fresh set of experienced eyes to help spark your curiosity back up. By having a business coach or advisor ask you the difficult and fresh questions, it can spur you to discover opportunities, use your creativity to seize opportunities and launch forward through your glass ceiling. We can help. Jacki Hart may be reached at info.peertopeer@landscapeontario.com.
The 2019 edition is presented with recognition of the OALA.
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symposium Join us for the Awards of Excellence Ceremony for Garden Centres Retail program winners will be announced!
January 9, 2019 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Toronto Congress Centre
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Monday January 7, 2019
A full day event including keynote speakers, lunch, supplier showcase and prizes. Held in conjunction with Congress ’19. REGISTRATION FEE: $120 per ticket until December 14. $160 per ticket after December 14. Admission to Congress ’19 Trade Show and Tailgate Party is included with registration. For details and registration, visit LOcongress.com
26 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2018
HortTrades.com
2018
Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association
ANNUAL
REPORT WWW.HORTTRADES.COM  27
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Continuing to build a solid future The pioneers of this great association laid a solid foundation. Their vision was to have the entire profession under one association and to recognize the long term financial health of any business or organization is dependent on real estate ownership. With great financial stewardship of staff and volunteers, Landscape Ontario is about to embark on its greatest financial investment to its members to date. The building renovation has been approved by the board and the renovation is well underway. By now, the inside of the building has been totally gutted. With fresh dreams of the future this renovation will give the association the facilities to deliver to leading services to it members. In keeping with great leadership, Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) and LO have come to terms with a sale of 10 per cent of the property. This relationship is industry-leading and not seen anywhere in North America. The collaboration between our two governing bodies is very beneficial to the profession. It will allow us both to focus on our own priorities. LO Building Committee Chair (and past CNLA Board Rep), Karl Stensson stated to me in an email, “I think this is a great
collaboration which cements the ties of the two associations. Both associations support and need each other and play vital, independent roles in keeping our industry healthy. There are no other associations like these two in the world and this goes a long way to say that the two will grow in the future instead of shrink, like most others have.” The next pillar to securing a more solid future - our strategic plan, is also well underway. As I write this message, I am about to embark on a two-day strategic planning session with leaders of our profession. My hope is that by the end of this process, we will have a very clear path to our future. In particular, how we acquire and move members through the engagement funnel that was discussed at a recent Provincial Board meeting. We know that times are changing, and as an association, we must change as well. What that looks like right now is not clear, but it will be something I will make sure gets done while serving as your president. Everything our association stands for could not be accomplished without our dedicated, home office staff and the many dedicated volunteers who serve the association. For that, I am grateful and thankful for everything you do. Here’s to a great 2019 and a brighter future! Respectfully submitted, Warren Patterson President 2018
TREASURER’S REPORT
Finances continue to strengthen the association Financially, Landscape Ontario is on solid ground. The vision and wisdom of our hardworking founders over 40 years ago is still alive and well today. Our Membership and Trade Show departments exceeded expected budgets, and Communications (Publishing) was slightly above previous year performance. Our investments from the proceeds of the land sale saw a net gain of over $500,000. After operating costs, the association has a net profit of $149,000. This was distributed into the following funds: Technology Fund: $10,000 Promotional Fund: $10,000 Horticultural Profession Development Fund: $129,000
28 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
Year end fund balances Horticultural Profession Development Fund: $1,187,323 Horticulture Centre Improvement Fund: $4,423,455 Technology Fund: $34,050 Promotional Fund: $21,066 Legacy Fund: $6,043,276 Total $11,709,170 Being in a favourable position enables the association to continue its vision of a prosperous, professional, ethical, recognized and valued profession. Respectfully submitted, Ed Hansen Treasurer 2018
MEMBERSHIP AND PUBLIC RELATIONS REPORT
Promoting professional members Through numerous initiatives targeted to consumers, media and potential members, Landscape Ontario continued to spread the word in 2018 about our amazing members, as well as the many benefits of our profession. Media members Our ongoing campaign to enlist members of the media continues to be very successful. In 2018, we concentrated on making media connections throughout the local chapters. We offer media (including garden writers, bloggers and broadcasters), a complimentary membership in Landscape Ontario that entitles them to free admission to our trade shows and events. We also send them exclusive press releases that keep them up-to-date on activities involving the green profession. We package the information in a way that makes it concise, relevant, and easy for the media members to then share with their own audiences. Canada Blooms The Canada Blooms theme in 2018 was “Let’s Go to the Movies.” Our members were certainly in the spotlight with their inspiring, creative gardens. Media loved the theme and displays. A report from the festival’s public relations firm showed we had several million impressions, including TV, radio, print and of course, social media. Home and garden shows Several LO chapters participated in local home and garden shows. In Windsor, Waterloo and Ottawa, chapter members volunteered to answer questions from the public and handed out copies of our popular Garden Inspiration magazine. Garden Inspiration magazine Our main consumer publication featured award-winning landscapes by LO members, new plants, and real-life accounts of the many benefits of working with a professional member of Landscape Ontario. The publication had a focus on the hot topics for 2018: food, fun and family. We distributed over 30,000 copies at Canada Blooms and an additional 20,000 at other events.
Garden Days This national program happened once again in June. Several of our members participated in local events that promoted the joys of gardening and encouraged people to visit public gardens. Membership In 2018, we saw approximately a five per cent increase in membership. Our challenge moving forward is to implement and maintain a successful member retention strategy. Member days This past spring we continued our popular road trips and set up a displays at several Associate member locations. We served food, greeted existing members, and promoted the benefits of membership to other contractors and suppliers. Membership activities During the summer, LO chapters held many social and sporting events, including: baseball and golf tournaments, that provided many opportunities for both active and associate members to have fun, network and raise funds for local charities and projects. Supporting other causes During the past year, we continued to support the Royal Botanical Garden (RBG) and Toronto Botanical Garden (TBG) with their exciting expansion plans. In addition, we lend an industry voice on several advisory boards. Summary 2018 was a very positive year for membership. With the onset of the building renovation, even though we had to pack up 25 years’ worth of stuff and throw out 25 years of garbage, then find and move into much smaller, temporary offices, it was business as usual throughout the ordeal. Thanks goes to your membership department staff, and to the other LO departments who helped to promote and support our many initiatives and our members. Most importantly, a big thank you to all our fabulous member volunteers across province. Respectfully submitted, Denis Flanagan CLD LO Manager of Membership and Public Relations 2018
WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 29
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Top initiatives and issues of 2018 2018 was a busy year! Every sector reported strong growth. Members seem happy with the current strength of the market, however two perennial issues dominated: the labour shortage and profitability continue to be concerns. Both issues are linked and interrelated. The most serious challenge facing members is finding good employees. Many members tell me they could take on 30 per cent more work, if only they had more help. The labour shortage issue is critical to future success. It is a barrier to the future growth of our profession. Although we have a very well developed Future Workforce Development Plan, labour will remain the number one priority for the association. This was confirmed during our recent strategic planning session. Sector group summaries Here is a brief summary of issues and activities for each of the LO sector groups: Garden Centre Group The very successful International Garden Centre Association (IGCA) Congress has energized Ontario’s Garden Centre Group. They continue looking for ways to remain relevant in a changing retail climate of buying groups and a shrinking market of independents. Many traditional independents are selling their land to developers. Irrigation Group The LO Irrigation Sector Group has been working with water purveyors to promote best practices with respect to water use. Their goal is to change the image of irrigation from a “water waster” to a “water steward.” They helped to create and promote the Water Smart Irrigation Professional (WSIP) program. They embrace and promote the use of grey water and storm water retention techniques, such as rain gardens, soil preparation, cistern systems, etc. Landscape Contractors and Grounds Management Groups Zoning issues are a perennial problem for these sectors. The regulatory burden for small businesses continues to get worse. Access to labour is still the number one priority. We are involved in promoting the Canadian Landscape Standard (CLS) and promoting pre-qualification. We are also promoting Low Impact Development (LID) processes. Fusion Landscape Program (FLP) accreditation and the Water Smart Irrigation Professional (WSIP) program. 30 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
Landscape Designers Group The group has a strong focus on professional development. The Landscape Designer Conference continues to attract a strong following. The promotion of the Certified Landscape Designer (CLD) designation is a priority. They are also working to obtain a Name Act. A recent partnership with the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD) will see the CLD program become international. Lighting Group The group is focused on professional development. Their very popular Lighting Symposium continues to be their best vehicle for networking and education. They have also been active in promoting low voltage lighting standards. Growers Group The sector has been focused on promoting Ontario-grown plants. The Growers Grove at Canada Blooms was very well received. Professional development, export markets and research have been high on their list of activities. The protection of the FARMS offshore worker program is essential. Snow and Ice Management Group Slip and fall claims and liability issues have created an environment where it is very costly for snow removal contractors to obtain insurance. In some cases, insurance companies are refusing to insure snow operations. The main priority is to push for legislation that will reduce liability exposure for professional accredited contractors. The group has also recently published a Snow Operations Risk Management Manual. They are also involved in helping members deal with the salt inventory shortage. Turf Management Group (lawn care) The major issue is the absence of effective plant protection products. We continue to advocate for the availability of low risk products. Lawn care has an image problem. The lifeenhancing benefits of turf are being obscured by a narrow focus on inputs required to keep turf healthy (water, fertilizer, mowing, etc.). We are developing a science-based document focused on the many benefits of turf. The main issue: Labour Shortage We are addressing the labour issue with numerous shortand long-term strategies, but the issue seems to be getting worse. We have a full-time person dedicated to promoting Apprenticeship. We also hired a new Youth Engagement Coordinator. We continue to promote the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program and Landscape.jobs website. Our
Human Resource Development Committee (chaired by Harold Deenen and managed by Sally Harvey) is broad, complex and extensive. Human resource development is by far the number one priority of the association, as well as most associations across North America. We look forward to making progress on this significant issue. Building update The association building has been completely gutted and will be renovated with brand new classrooms (including a practical classroom) and offices. The landscape will also better reflect our profession. We are currently in temporary offices. If all goes according to plan, we will be back at the home office in June 2019. Summary and highlights of 2018 in pictures It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. In order to respect your time, here is an overview of 2018.
The building completely gutted.
Temporary offices. Everyone has an eight-foot table and plywood dividers.
The master landscape plan for the Milton home office is being developed by a dream team of landscape architects, including: Haig Seferian, Paul Brydges, Dave Wright, Kathy Zhu, Scott Wentworth and Ron Koudys.
LO’s Peer-to-Peer Network of business owners grew to over 150 members. The group is a reflection of our “community for mutual benefit” ethic. It is a very beneficial program available for free to LO members.
The salt inventory shortage caused a lot of anxiety this year, forcing salt suppliers and contractor buying groups to source their own supplies of salt from overseas. This photo was taken at the docks in Hamilton, Ont.
WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 31
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT
The Highway of Heroes Living Tribute continues to raise momentum. This wonderful project, chaired by Mark Cullen, is focused on planting 117,000 trees along Highway 401 from Trenton to Toronto to honour the sacrifice of our fallen soldiers. An additional 1.8 million trees will be planted adjacent to the highway to thank those who have served in our military during times of war. So far, $3.8 million of the $10 million required has been raised. 90,000 trees have been planted so far. Above: LO Honorary Life Members, Bob Tubby and Mark Cullen planting trees at Highway 401 and Meadowvale.
LO was involved in eight Come Alive Outside Green Streets Challenges this year, coordinated by our newest staff member, Lissa Schoot-Uiterkamp. These pop-up parks showed up all over the province. We were even able to shut down the busy Yonge and Bloor Street intersection in downtown Toronto twice this year. These events dramatically showcase the value of our profession to society. Above is a pop-up park in Picton, Ont.
Celebrating at Yonge and Bloor in Toronto. “When you stare at too much concrete you forget the earth is alive.” – Bruce Cockburn. Don Cherry is now a supporter of the Highway of Heroes Living Tribute campaign.
LO Past President and Honorary Life Member, Paul Olsen, passed away in March, 2018. Paul was a tireless supporter of the association and profession. We planted a tree in Paul’s memory at the LO home office with the participation of Paul’s family. 32 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
LO’s Snow and Ice Sector Group partnered with World Wildlife Fund on the Chlorides Forum. Together, we are advocating for mandatory Smart about Salt (SAS) Accreditation with liability protection for accredited companies.
The Skills Canada Competition elevates the profession in the eyes of thousands of students. Here, one of the high school teams builds a landscape.
LO’s Golden Horseshoe Chapter’s annual Gear up for Spring event continues to be very popular.
The Growers Industry Auction was held at NVK Holdings in Dundas, Ont.
This year, as with the past eight years, LO members volunteered to renovate St. James Park.
A drawing of the new building façade facing Higway 401. It will feature the Landscape Ontario logo on green glass with a large dry stone wall built in front of the building.
Meeting with the executive of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD) to discuss an international Certified Landscape Designer Designation.
The future One of the most important activities in 2018 was the revisiting of our strategic plan. Facilitated by Nathan Helder of Southbrook Consulting, the committee of volunteers consisted of: Dave Wright, Warren Patterson, Mark Humphries, Gregg Salivan, Paul Brydges, Lindsay Drake Nightingale, Kimberly Khoury, Lindsey Ross, Gerald Boot, Michael Garcia, Mark Bradley, Jennifer Lemcke, Christine Moffit, Michael Gucciardi and Jamie Perras. The committee spent two days framing the plan for LO’s Provincial Board of Directors and members. Landscape Ontario has always been planning oriented. Previous plans have become prophetic documents. We are one of the largest and most relevant horticultural trades organizations in the world because we have made the effort to listen to our membership and develop programs and activities that focus on building a prosperous, professional, ethical, recognized and valued profession. The future looks very bright for the profession and our organization. Respectfully submitted, Tony DiGiovanni LO Executive Director 2018 WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 33
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT
2018 Chapter reports The regional needs of members are served through a network of nine chapters. Through monthly meetings and special events, the chapters represent an ideal way for member companies to keep abreast of concerns regarding the profession. The two most sought after membership benefits — education and networking opportunities — are provided through the association’s regional chapter structure.
Durham
President: Norm Mills Secretary/Treasurer: Carol Fulford Past President: Mark Humphries Provincial Board Rep: Christopher Muller Directors: Brian Alcock, Scott Lloyd, Brian Shelfoon, Janice Shingler The Durham Chapter usually holds meetings on the first Tuesday of the month at the Moose Lodge in Oshawa. Oct. 3, 2017: The evening chapter meeting saw about 27 people attend to learn about local regulations for landscapers from Pickering bylaw officials, thus getting loads of good information, as well as saving lots of money on fines. Nov 9, 2017: Members helped plant trees for the Highway of Heroes Living Tribute campaign at the General Motors south property. Over 35 dignitaries, local high school horticulture students and LO members played in the mud and rain (remember 2017, it rained every day!), and generally had a good gardening time. I recently inspected the project and it has an almost 100 per cent survival rate, proving rain is great for gardens, but not so much for gardeners. Nov. 14, 2017: LO Executive Director, Tony DiGiovanni, updated our membership on changes to employment laws in Ontario under Bill 148. Fred Young from Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS) freshened us up with WHMIS 2015 updates, followed by a lively roundtable discussion about any and all pertinent topics. Participants included: educators, first and second generation landscape and horticulture professionals, as well as some who are now retired from the profession. Over 40 members had an enjoyable, insightful evening. Jan. 2018: Congress days — no need to say more! Feb. 2018: Our February meeting was (permanently) rescheduled until April due to normally lousy weather in early February (plus many members have returned from the sunny south by April!). March 6, 2018: We held a daytime meeting where Jim Slykhuis led a safety meeting and LO’s Alex Gibson presented the many benefits to employers and employees utilizing the 34 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
Apprenticeship Program. Over 50 people attended the daytime meeting. Numbers were slightly down due to a busy spring and a Unilock seminar held close by. Moving forward, our Chapter Board has made a mental note (and advises other chapters), to also check the seminar schedules of the large stone suppliers before setting dates for their own chapter meetings. Elections were held at the March meeting, and now with a total of 11 volunteers on our board, many hands will make light work (but the Chapter President still has to write his own report!). April 3, 2018: Our next daytime meeting had about 40 people attend to get the latest information on human resources from external sources for the industry, including workplace mental health, group benefits and bylaw enforcement. June 16, 2018: Most of the executive participated in a charity landscape for the Kids Safety Village in Whitby. Over $5,000 in nursery stock and related items were donated, including an engraved, commemorative rock (that was actually found on site). A heartfelt thank you to all who donated time, equipment and product. I feel the Durham Chapter had a very successful year, and I would once again like to thank all members who have led before me, with special thanks to Janice and Carol for keeping me in-line and well fed — no small feat for either. I wish Jon Agg all the best in his new position as president of the chapter. Respectfully submitted, Norm Mills President 2017-2018
Georgian Lakelands
Vice President: Michael Di Nunzio Treasurer: Ken Dutka Secretary: Laurie-Ann Stuart Provincial Board Rep: Margot Byers Directors: Lynne Barnes, Chris Mason, Teresa Matamoros, Jen Raedts, Rob Redden, Debbie Wood In September 2017, the chapter held its fourth annual Putting Challenge at Cascades Putting Course, Blue Mountain Village in Collingwood. Over 50 putters were in attendance and the evening concluded with a delicious dinner at Rusty’s in the Village, and awards for our best and most honest putters. The third annual Georgian Lakelands Chapter Awards of Distinction was held on Nov. 30 at Casino Rama in Orillia. The awards recognize suppliers, staff and volunteers within the chapter. Nominations were accepted for the various award categories from Oct. 16-27, followed by voting by LO members
Past-presidents of the Georgian Lakelands Chapter were in attendance for the Chapter’s annual Awards of Distinction evening in November 2017.
and their employees from Oct. 30 to Nov. 10. Categories included: Best Hardscaping Material Supplier, Best Plant Material Supplier, Equipment and Accessory Supplier of the Year, Best Supplier or Service Provider to the Landscape Industry, Best Salesperson of the Year, Best Boss of the Year, Employee of the Year, and the Georgian Lakelands Chapter Volunteer of the Year. It was wonderful to have the past presidents of the Georgian Lakelands Chapter in attendance to present the awards and celebrate the history of the chapter. The evening continues to grow and we look forward to expanding the program in the future. Congratulations to all our 2017 winners! The chapter continues to rotate meeting locations throughout the major cities/towns within our large geographic boundary. We continue working on meeting members where they live and making meetings more accessible to members across the chapter. The November chapter meeting featured a “town hall” format, where LO Executive Director, Tony DiGiovanni, discussed Bill 148 and how it would impact business owners. It was a great opportunity for discussion and for members to share the challenges they have been facing for hiring and retaining quality staff. Unfortunately, we were unable to host the Huntsville meeting this year, but we look forward to a revitalization of this event next year. Despite unexpected warm temperatures from Mother Nature in late February, we were still able to host our annual Ski and Spa Day in Collingwood. The chapter continues to welcome members from across the province to join us for this popular event and we are looking forward to an even bigger turnout in 2019. Our March chapter meeting has become synonymous with safety training. This year, Jennifer Threndyle, an Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) specialist with
Workplace Safety Prevention Services, gave an insightful presentation on what business owners need to do in order to comply with AODA regulations. The afternoon portion of the meeting was hosted by Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO) Officer, Hank Dubee. Hank was able to answer all questions about commercial vehicle safety and the many regulations business owners and staff need to be aware of. This meeting was designed to help members and their staff take a proactive approach to compliance, both on the roads and in construction. Our 2018 year concluded with a new event: the Summerfest BBQ hosted at Sheridan Nurseries in Georgetown. Green industry professionals from across the province attended the event, which was coupled with the annual Trial Garden Open House at the University of Guelph and Landscape Ontario home office. After spending the day touring the gardens, folks made their way to Sheridan for tours, games, a gourmet meal, dancing, samplings from local breweries, and more. Thank you to the Georgian Lakelands Chapter board members for their hard work in organizing these events and taking care of all the behind-the scenes work. Thank you to our members who continue to support our events, including our generous sponsors, volunteers and everyone who helps to make these events a success. We couldn’t do it without you. We look forward to continuing to offer new education and training opportunities throughout the Chapter and providing opportunities for members to meet and connect with fellow professionals, as we continue to grow and develop the Georgian Lakelands Chapter. Respectfully submitted, Georgian Lakelands Chapter Board 2017-2018
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2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT
The Golden Horseshoe Chapter’s annual Chicken Roast continues to be a popular family event.
Golden Horseshoe
President: Fran MacKenzie Vice President: Tim Rivard Past President: Jeff Smith Treasurer: Andrew Barz Provincial Board Rep: Tim Cruickshanks Directors: John Bos, Chris Church, Chris DeCock, Allard DeVries, Christopher Utter, Fiore Zenone Chapter Coordinator: Mary Thompson What a year it’s been! Sept. 2017: The Chapter’s annual Chicken Roast was held at Bobcat of Hamilton in Stoney Creek, Ont. The successful event featured delicious, roasted chicken, and lots of fun and games for children. The event was well-attended. Feb. 2018: The GHC continued its February tradition of hosting a family-friendly event and combined Family Day with a family bowling day at Splitsville Entertainment in Hamilton. The day was a complete success and a great way for members to network and have fun with colleagues and families. March 2018: Once again, our Gear Up for Spring trade show was an amazing event and continues to grow each year. We had a record turnout with over 300 visitors, and sold-out exhibitor booth space. This event features presentations and seminars, many geared toward safety, in a effort for everyone to start the season with the latest information on regulations and safe work practices. We are looking forward to an even bigger event in 2019. Aug. 2018: Our annual golf tournament also saw a record turnout of golfers and very generous sponsors this year. Once again, the tournament was held at Willow Valley Golf Course in 36 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
Hamilton. The golf tournament included representatives from the MS Society of Canada, who once again commented that our event is the most successful fundraising golf tournament of the season for them. Hats off to our golfers for being so generous. It was a great day and a great time had by all. Respectfully submitted, Fran MacKenzie President 2017-2018
London
President: Matt Hart Past President: Pete Vanderley Secretary: Heather Jerrard Provincial Board Rep: Michael Pascoe CLT Treasurer: Michelle Peeters Directors: Carla Bailey (social and trade events), Cindy Buelow (member recruitment/retention), Pam Cook (plant symposium), Bill Degraaf (golf), Derek Geddes (membership recruitment/ retention), Ryan Marshall, Ramon Pieters, Greg Schaafsma (golf), Jarrett Woodard (social and trade events) Chapter Coordinator: Wendy Harry The London Chapter held its annual golf tournament at Echo Valley Golf Course in early September, 2017. Once again, the sold out event was our biggest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds from the event enable the chapter to support members with excellent chapter meetings and build funds for future community greening projects. The first of our four chapter meetings took place in October with Jay Murray, owner of TLC Professional Landscaping, and
well as lunch sponsor, Baseline Nurseries and coffee sponsor, Grand River Brick and Stone. We look forward to holding this event again in 2019. Finally, in March, we hosted our annual MTO safety meeting. This timely meeting is always well-attended. It is a great reminder on what we need to do to comply and also avoid any unnecessary fines that can unexpectedly add to the cost of running a business. Of course, being compliant also makes all of us safer while on the road. Respectfully submitted, Pete Vanderley
Ottawa The London Chapter’s Plant Symposium offers students, industry pros and the public a jump on plant-related topics just before spring.
a London Chapter member. Jay spoke on the implications of Bill 148 and how the legislation would present major challenges and changes to all business owners in the province. Jay provided a thorough analysis of the financial costs most landscape businesses could expect to incur. His insight certainly helped many businesses with their 2018 budget preparation. In November, Emily Beekmans spoke on mental health issues in the workplace; a rising concern that more businesses are facing. Emily spoke about the roles and responsibilities employers have toward staff, and helped to educate us all on how to recognize the warning signs, how to help employees and where to go for support. The meeting was an eye-opener for many on how mental health can affect those who suffer from it. In February, Dave Lebert, Sandler Training, London, spoke on how to get business referrals. Dave gave everyone some good pointers on where to look for referrals and how to be a bit more aggressive in getting them. On Feb. 9, the London Chapter hosted its second annual Plant Symposium at the Lamplighter Inn in London. Over 180 people attended, including many students from the design and horticulture programs at Fanshawe College. In addition, many LO and OALA members, and garden enthusiasts from the public, came out to hear our fabulous speakers. Topics covered the latest in plant trends, including: Paul Zammit, Rethinking Beauty-Planting With a Greater Purpose and Pollinators Too!; Mathis Natvik, Merging Ecology, Aesthetics and Infrastructure with Landscape Design; Brenda Gallagher, Problems with Invasive Plants; and Lorraine Johnson, Growing Edible Native Plants. Additionally, many sponsors/vendors set up booths to provide a very appealing and interesting market place area. Thank you to our major sponsor, OALA (Ontario Association of Landscape Architects), for their support, as
President: Steve Neumann Past President: Ed Hansen Treasurer: Tyler Owen Provincial Board Rep: Lindsey Ross Directors: Ryan Bond, Cory MacCallum, Marc Carriere, Steve Montcalm, Mary Stewart, Chris Urquhart Chapter Coordinator: Martha Walsh Members of Landscape Ontario’s eastern-most chapter continue to volunteer and support all chapter events and initiatives. The 2017-2018 season once again saw members strive to make their community a better place. Over the past year, member volunteers of the Ottawa Chapter supported the following events: LO Board of Directors, local chapter meetings, 12th annual Ottawa Day of Tribute to the Canadian Military, ongoing maintenance of the Ottawa Cancer Survivors Park, the Ottawa Chapter Awards of Distinction, GreenTrade Expo, Living Landscapes at the Ottawa Home and Garden Show, and the annual Ottawa Chapter Charity Golf Tournament. The many volunteers are great mentors who work closely with educators to provide great leadership examples and opportunities to students in both the Horticultural Diploma and Apprenticeship Programs at Algonquin College. A core group of 11 member companies proudly volunteer to maintain the Ottawa Cancer Survivors Park from May to October. The maintenance of the park also provides valuable, hands-on experience to students from Algonquin College via the member companies involved. The passion and commitment in volunteering time and expertise to benefit the local community is passed down from member to student through participation in this amazing project. The 2018 Ottawa Chapter Charity Golf Tournament elected to raise funds for a new charity this year: The Do It for Daron (DIFD) foundation. The organization inspires conversations, raises awareness and transforms youth mental health through the legacy of Daron Richardson. Held July 26, the tournament raised over $5,000 for the charity, which will be presented to DIFD at the November 2018 chapter meeting. The golf event WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 37
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT dedication of our volunteers, as well as the generous support of our many sponsors. They don’t just make the event possible, they make it fun, as well. We’re privileged to have such a great group of companies and organizations supporting us.” The Ottawa Chapter added a new event this year. Under the lead of Ottawa Chapter Provincial Board Rep, Lindsey Ross, the first annual Ottawa Chapter Spa Day was held at Le Nordik Spa in Chelsea, Que., on March 27. A total of 29 attendees took time to relax in the spa baths and enjoy an easy afternoon of networking in preparation for the upcoming season. Thank you to all chapter board members for their support of all chapter events and initiatives this season.
GreenTrade Expo celebrated its 25 year milestone in 2018.
concluded with the presentation of a Landscape Ontario Honorary Lifetime Membership Award to Jim Bauer. It was Bauer, who worked alongside Casey van Maris, to finally establish a chapter of Landscape Ontario in our nation’s capital. Mr. Bauer’s family was in attendance for the award presentation, along with many members of the Ottawa Chapter. Chapter Past President, Ed Hansen presented the award, providing a personal account of his experiences with Mr. Bauer. Thanks to the Ottawa golf committee members for making the 2018 event such a success: Chris Urquhart, Randi-Lee Bell, Steve Montcalm, Lindsey Ross, and Jenn Siba. Membership increased in the Ottawa Chapter by 16 per cent in 2017/2018, with more representation from sector groups and chapter associates. Chapter meeting topics this past year included: Jay Murray on how the new minimum wage regulations could affect your business; MTO and Ottawa police services joined together to walk members through all they need to know about snow and the roads; and how ransomware can affect your business and how to protect yourself. The final chapter meeting of the year once again took place in March, and was a celebration of the gardens at Living Landscapes, presented by members of the Ottawa Chapter of Landscape Ontario, as part of the Ottawa Home and Garden Show. Huge thanks to chapter board member, Marc Carriere for all of his on-site support with Living Landscapes. GreenTrade Expo, presented by the Ottawa Chapter, celebrated its 25th year on Feb. 14. The 2018 event included the Ottawa Awards of Distinction, held the prior evening, with awards handed out for both chapter and associate members. GreenTrade Expo featured 100 exhibitors, and included complimentary entrance and parking, plus a craft beer tent in support of the Ottawa Food Bank. Many members remarked on how quickly the 25 years have passed, and how the show has become a must-attend-event for professionals in both Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec. Show Producer, Bruce Morton, who has been involved with the event since its inception, summed up the event as follows: “This whole event wouldn’t be possible without the remarkable work and 38 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
Respectfully submitted, Steve Neumann President 2018
Toronto
President: Jonas Spring Past President: Ryan Heath Treasurer: Sabrina Goettler Vice President: Janet Mott Secretary: Joe Pereira Provincial Board Rep: Jon Durzi Directors: Keren Abu, Paulo Domingues, Raffy Hanimyan, Wendy Ladd, John Larsen, Skai Leja, Christie MacFadyen, Bonnie Scott It has been a busy year for the Toronto Chapter! Chapter meetings started off with a focus on green buildings and interior landscaping and design. Guest speakers included: Dr. Brad Bass, Leon Wasser, and Wolfgang Amelung. These three experts in the field of “indoor greening” discussed the science and practice of creating green building environments using living walls to generate fresher, healthier indoor air. The November Chapter meeting was a town hall-style meeting at Humber College, hosted by LO Executive Director, Tony DiGiovanni to discuss Bill 148 legislation and how it impacts business owners. It was a great opportunity for members to discuss and share the challenges they have been facing when trying to hire and retain quality staff. Round table discussion topics included: wages, overtime, vacation pay and paid leave. 2017 wrapped up with a winter social hosted at Amsterdam Barrel House. The 2018 chapter meeting season began at Ryerson University with a focus on using ecology as a sales strategy. Jonas Spring and Sean James shared their experiences in designing and constructing sustainable landscapes, and how these trends are becoming attractive sales features for homeowners. The chapter’s full-day February meeting featured all things safety related. Khaim Nong of Sorbara Law discussed the
The Toronto Chapter helped to bring the Green Street Challenge to community members in downtown Toronto.
impending cannabis legislation and what business owners need to do to prepare and update their employee policy manuals. Jim Slykhuis returned for an update on commercial vehicle safety regulations, including a sample walkaround inspection. Joe Pereira from Landscapes by Lucin and Marcelo Manfrini from Elite Concrete, facilitated a training and question and answer session on how they prepare their teams for compliance with health and safety regulations. These industry professionals provided real world examples and effective tips on training staff. Chapter meetings concluded for the year with our AGM and a discussion on harassment in the workplace, prompted by the large attention given to the #MeToo movement this year. The chapter partnered with METRAC, an organization dedicated to providing education and training to creating safe, inclusive workplaces. Discussions included the risk faced by designers when entering the homes of strangers when doing design consultations, how to handle a harassment situation as a team leader/business owner, how to create an inclusive ‘crew culture,’ and how to manage conflicts within a small business. The Toronto Chapter bursary program saw continued success for its second year. The bursary program allows the chapter to support multiple community greening projects across the GTA, with grants of up to $1,500 for each project. The bursary committee, made up of Toronto Chapter Board members, select applicant projects that enhance physical, mental and spiritual wellness; offer environmental benefit, such as pollinator or wildlife gardens; provide community or
educational benefit, such as community gardens. This year, 20 projects were selected including community, food and pollinator gardens, as well as seed exchanges. We look forward to seeing the progress of these initiatives and being able to continue our support of more community greening initiatives in the future. The chapter continued its’ popular ‘shop talk sessions’ across the GTA this year. The sessions were inspired by the informal meetings that would take place either before or after a standard format chapter meeting, where members would take the opportunity to catch up with each other and compare notes on the challenges and opportunities of the season in a more relaxed, candid format. The shop talk sessions have no agenda, no expert speakers, just the chance to get together and talk about concerns, successes and challenges. We look forward to continuing these successful networking events in the future. This summer, we tried moving our annual golf tournament slightly north within the chapter boundaries, to the Cardinal Golf Club. The course offered new tests for golfers and our loyal players came out in full force. The event was very generously supported by multiple sponsors who made the day a success. Proceeds from the event go toward chapter greening initiatives, including the chapter bursary program, and we are very grateful for all of the support. Although it was a smaller tournament this year, Richmond Greens hosted our 2018 baseball tournament, with four teams in attendance. We look forward to re-vamping this event for 2019 to make baseball even bigger and better than ever! Thank you to the Toronto Chapter board members for WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 39
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT their hard work in organizing these events and taking care of all the behind-the-scenes work. Thank you to our members who come and support our events, including our generous sponsors, volunteers and everyone who helps to make these events a success. Respectfully submitted, Jonas Spring President 2017-2018
year with new leadership at the helm, and the opportunity for others to develop their leadership skills by becoming involved in the various roles within the chapter’s governance or committees, as others move on to the role of mentors or other opportunities at the national level and outside our organization. Respectfully submitted, Paul Doornbos CLP, CLT President 2017-2018
Upper Canada
Waterloo
The Upper Canada Chapter continues to rotate meeting locations between Kingston and Belleville in an effort to make meetings more accessible to members across our wide-spread chapter. The 2017-2018 meeting season began with a discussion hosted in Belleville that focused on snow and ice management with guest speaker, Mark Humphries. Mark spoke candidly and shared his experience in snow and ice removal with those in attendance. It proved to be a very informative meeting. The November chapter meeting in Kingston was set to be a featured presentation on Fusion Gardening, but due to the forthcoming legislation, became a discussion surrounding Bill 148 and how it would impact our members. The new year of meetings began in Belleville with a presentation from John Higo on landscape lighting, and was also the first meeting with our Level 2 Apprenticeship students. February’s meeting was back in Kingston and featured more roundtable discussions with a focus again around Bill 148. The March meeting in Belleville featured our AGM and annual elections. Our final meeting of the year featured presentations on commercial vehicle inspections, workplace safety and locate agreements. In addition, a number of vendors were given the opportunity to display products and speak with members. After a hiatus last year due to the effects of weather on our members’ business schedules, our annual golf tournament returned this year. The tournament was smaller in numbers, but equally successful in raising funds for our local scholarships and educational opportunities. A fun day was had by all participants. Once again, Upper Canada Chapter was well-represented on the association’s Show Committee this year, as well as on other provincial committees. The chapter looks forward to continuing to offer local education and training opportunities for LO members and their staff. We look forward to the coming
The Waterloo Chapter had an exciting and eventful year with chapter meetings and social events which continue to grow. The chapter’s sporting events continue to thrive, thanks to the hard work of our golf and baseball committees, and the generous support of our members. Proceeds from our golf tournament were donated to the Waterloo Chapter’s scholarship fund, KidsAbility and our School Greening Project fund. While fall is still a busy time of year in the landscaping world, our September meeting continues to see a great turnout. The chapter hosted guest speaker, Stacey Curry Gunn, a communications professional specializing in communications strategy and storytelling, to help companies build their brand and achieve their business goals. Stacey shared insight into the latest trends in social media marketing, and discussed strategies on how to effectively market businesses through the many social media platforms. The October chapter meeting featured low impact development landscaping. Jeff Thompson discussed how this landscape approach is becoming legislated, who this will affect, and examples of local projects as reference for landscape professionals. As the temperatures dropped, the chapter’s annual snow and ice meeting returned in November. This meeting discussed the future of snow and ice management and included a panel discussion on many topics, including: best management practices, challenges and solutions to snow and ice management, and risk management for employees and clients. The panel was made up of industry experts including: Kathleen Walsh, Property Manager for The Cora Group; James Chmiel, Chief Operating Officer at Erb and Erb Insurance Brokers; Amanda Christiaens, Assistant Vice President Commercial Practice at HortProtect (Marsh Canada); Dave Wright, landscape contractor and owner/operator of Wright Landscape
President: Paul Doornbos CLP, CLT Vice President: Jesse Perrin Past President/Provincial Board Rep: Terry Childs Treasurer: Pamela McCormick Secretary: Neil Bouma Directors: Judy deBoer-Bell, David Gunn, Andre Ypma
40 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
President: Jeff Thompson Vice President: Thomas Blatter CLP Past President: Randy Adams Treasurer: Robert Tester Secretary: Blake Sicard Provincial Board Rep: Jason Dietrich Directors: Trevor Garner, Eric Horst, Mike Silva
Services; and Rob Tester, landscape contractor and owner/ operator of Salt Connection and TNT Property Maintenance. The chapter’s November tradition, the annual Fall Freeze-up Dinner and Dance was held again at Bingemans, featuring live music, dancing, and raffle prizes. This event offers members a great way to end the season with family and staff. The event was enjoyed by over 150 members and guests. The year ended with a round table discussion that focused on employment legislation changes in Ontario and what impact they have on local businesses. Topics included: employment issues, financial challenges and effective use of technology. Chapter meetings resumed in February 2018 with guest speaker, Khiam Nong of Sobara Law. Ms. Nong discussed the budding topic of cannabis in the workplace and an employer’s duty to accommodate staff with a prescription for medical marijuana. Attendees also had the opportunity to discuss all things Apprenticeship with Alex Gibson, Landscape Ontario’s Apprenticeship Coordinator. Gibson shared information on the financial grants available to employers, and how apprenticeship training can aid in employee retention. The March chapter meeting hosted representatives from Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS), for a conversation on mental health literacy and awareness. This training provided participants with a better understanding of the stigmas associated with mental health issues, and the tools to develop positive workplace mental health strategies that are fundamental to the safety, health and well-being of the workforce. The spring of 2018 was a very busy time for both our members and the chapter. Each spring, we sponsor the Kitchener-Waterloo Home and Garden Show. Our booth saw over 2,500 attendees this year, each taking home a pine or spruce seedling for their yard. Just before the hectic rush of spring, the chapter hosted its annual safety meeting at Premier Equipment. Representatives from the Workplace Safety Insurance Board (WSIB) hosted a discussion on rate changes for 2018. They shared valuable information on how businesses can reduce their premiums by enacting health and safety policies, as well as a review of what is required for compliance with WSIB. We are looking forward to another eventful season of strengthening the Landscape Ontario brand, while supporting each of our members in developing their businesses. Thanks to our wonderful members who plan and participate each of these events and our numerous social activities. It is great to be a member of the Waterloo Chapter. Respectfully submitted, Jeff Thompson President 2017-2018
Windsor
President: Jay Terryberry Vice President: Sal Costante Past President: Donald Tellier CLT Treasurer: Joe Santarosa Jr. Secretary/LOWC Assistant: Violet Harris Directors: Jessica Aytoun, Dan Garlatti, Vince Murphy Our annual chapter meetings started out with a timely presentation on recruiting and retaining staff. In October, John Dobrowlsky from Sandler Training talked to a small, but interested group of members on how to manage staff and prepare them for future leadership roles. The November meeting had Kelly Devaere from Plant Products discuss fertilizer choices, as well as key pests and their controls — a well-received topic since the introduction of the cosmetic pesticide ban a number of years ago. In December, members and their employees took part in the chapter’s annual bowling night. A great crowd gathered for bowling, food, prizes and more. It was a timely event held just before the holidays. The January meeting was highlighted with a presentation from Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS) that discussed the new rules and regulations that all companies must follow in regards to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and mental health in the workplace. Another well-attended meeting in February looked at how business owners can grow their company using social media marketing. Mike Pennington gave an interesting and humorous approach to the benefits of social media in the workplace. The wrap-up of our chapter meetings in March was the best attended meeting of the year. Matthew Mitchell and his colleagues from the Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO) gave their annual presentation to members and their employees on what to do when travelling from site to site, proper documentation for each employee and vehicle, and what to expect when stopped on the roadside. The LOWC annual Bob Girard Memorial Golf Tournament was held in September at Sutton Creek Golf Club. A fine day of golf and an after-party was enjoyed by all. For many years, the Windsor Chapter has been involved with the Hospice of Windsor, lending a hand with landscaping and maintenance on an annual basis. A major expansion on the grounds is taking place this fall, but we still hope members and students from the St. Clair College Horticulture Program will be able to participate in our fall clean up, as well as help to revamp many of the garden areas on the grounds. Once again, our fall/winter meeting schedule is ready to go and I hope to see many new members (and the regulars) over the next few months. Respectfully submitted, Jay Terryberry President 2017-2018 WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 41
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT
2018 Sector reports The scope and mandate — and therefore the needs — of the 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: Michael Van Dongen Members: Brian Alcock, Barry Benjamin, Perry Grobe, Kevin Jack, Kennedy Johnston, Art Vanden Enden With the support of the Landscape Ontario team, LO’s Garden Centre Sector Group has had a productive year. This year’s Garden Centre Symposium, celebrated in conjunction with Congress, featured a half-day event for garden centres on Jan. 10, 2018. The event started with two compelling presentations from David Coletto, an expert on marketing research within Canada and generational studies. The members who were able to attend left with a very insightful and almost humbled accounts of how to hire Millennials, and how to sell to Millennials. For the members who couldn’t attend, viewing some of David’s insights on YouTube, and learning more about the Millennial demographic are time well spent. The event concluded with the LO Garden Centre Awards of Excellence, showcasing the innovation and creativity of our retail members. The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) and Garden Centres Canada, under the leadership of Robin Godfrey, had a very productive year. The International Garden Centre Association (IGCA) Congress was hosted in Niagara Falls, Ont., in September 2017. The event that gathers garden centre owners together from all over the world, proved to be a huge success, both financially and in bringing our sector members together. Everyone involved should be very proud of our coordinated efforts. The CNLA, in partnership with Retail Council of Canada, was also able to deploy an upgraded online training and certification tool, which modernizes and opens up training to newcomers in our sector. It is available as a free trial this year, and we encourage all garden centres to explore this program available to them. The sector group continues to work on and discuss the following: • Assessment of consumers’ perceptions on the value of horticultural products. • Study of consumers’ processes and research methods prior to purchasing plants. 42 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
As always, we welcome garden centre owners and operators to join our group. We now host many meetings online, making it more convenient than ever to contribute to the sector group. Respectfully submitted, Michael Van Dongen Chair 2017-2018
Grounds Management
Chair: Brad Paton CLT Members: Kevin Almeida, Sarah Beckon, Craig Cole, Brent Giles, Jeff McMann CHT, Rodger Tschanz The main focus for our group for the 2018 year, was to host another successful lecture series that contained a strong lineup of industry experts, who would hold the interest of not just our own maintenance sector, but those in the landscape profession as a whole. The 2018 lecture event was held at Lionhead Golf and Conference Centre in Brampton, Ont. Our first speaker, Bob Reeves, drew in the crowd almost instantly with his talk titled, “Beyond Organic Matter”. Reeves demonstrated how microbial life in soil is important to everyone in the landscape profession, as healthy soil means healthy plants. We ran way over our allotted time for the question period — a good indication that people were in need of more information. Our next presenter, Rich Hawkes, continued on the same train of discussion with a presentation titled, “Improving soils through Organics.” We were very fortunate to have Roger Tschanz, Trial Garden Manager from the University of Guelph, join the group to discuss and update us on the star performers of his latest trials. It is always great to get a sneak peek at the exciting new plant material that will be arriving in garden centres across the province in the near future. Before sending everyone home with full bellies and lots of great information, we ended the day with a shot of adrenaline, courtesy of Paul Zammit. Paul’s enthusiastic energy flowed through the room, as he discussed container gardening and how to fill even the darkest corner with lots of colour. As a group, we look forward to growing on our success of the past year and already have a great lineup of informative and entertaining speakers ready for the 2019 lecture. Respectfully submitted, Brad Paton CLT Chair 2017-2018
Growers
Chair: John Mantel Vice Chair: Rob Albrecht Treasurer: Bill Putzer CNLA Rep: Mark Ostrowski Members: Jamie Aalbers, Andrew Barbour, Rob Beedie, Steve Burgess, Ben Cullen, Jeff Gregg, Serge Leclair, Jennifer Llewellyn, Glen Lumis, John Moons, Rob Naraj, Ed Patchell, Bill Putzer, Fred Somerville, Mark Verbinnen, Rita Weerdenburg, Jeanine West, Nick Winkelmolen, Richard Worsley In September 2017, our annual Growers Industry Auction was hosted by Brookdale Treeland Nurseries in Schomberg, Ont. It was a very successful event that raised over $25,000 for scholarships, research, and industry development. In November, our annual Fall Dinner Meeting was held at Piper’s Heath Golf course in Milton. Over 60 people took time to network and catch up after another busy growing season. Education for the evening was provided by our guest speakers, Ken Linington, Labour Issues Cooridinating Committee, and John Van de Vegte, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA). In January 2018, a new initiative was launched at Congress called GreenLIVE! The result of a partnership between the LO Growers Sector Group and the International Society of Arboriculture Ontario (ISAO) Chapter, GreenLIVE! provided live demonstrations led by experts from both groups on everything from the selection and transport of trees, to site preparation and proper planting techniques, to maintenance and long-term care. GreenLIVE! will return to Congress in 2019, bigger and better than ever. The annual Growers Short Course returned to Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, Ont., on Feb. 7. Keynote speaker, Mark Krautman of Heritage Seedlings held informative and engaging talks titled, “Innovative Production Practices,” and “Marketing Trends in Ornamentals.” Updates on many research projects and initiatives were also provided on behalf of representatives from University of Guelph, Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, and OMAFRA. In March 2018, the Growers Group produced a large, interactive display at Canada Blooms. The intent was to educate the public as to the production of nursery plants right here in Ontario, and put a face to the men and women who work in our sector. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many volunteers and staff who work diligently on behalf of all growers in Ontario.
Hardscape Committee
Chair: Shawn Giovanetti Vice Chair: Dave O’Malley Secretary/Treasurer: Nick Lang Members: Bill Beldham, Frank Bourque, Andrew Colautti, Andrew Dancsak, Michael Luelo, Erica Pignatelli, Mark Wilkier, Jarrett Woodard LO Hardscape golf tournament The 2018 golf tournament was a success for the committee. We had over 90 golfers who enjoyed amazing fall weather and great on-course experiences. The attendance and customer feedback were great and will help the committee make future tournaments even better. There were multiple hole-in-one contests, great food stations and an improvised dunk tank. The course always delivers a great dinner and exceptional service. All proceeds from the event go toward HardscapeLIVE!, the committee’s premier production at Landscape Ontario Congress. Next year’s tournament should not be missed. HardscapeLIVE! at Congress 2018 Our third year of HardscapeLIVE! was a huge success for the committee and for Congress. There was a noticeable increase in attendance over last year, and some attendees were asked to participate in each of the six unique sessions. Space was at a premium, but the crowds spilled into the aisles to catch a view. Our hardscape-based education was definitely a hit! The committee added the amazingly-talented and professional, Frank Bourque, as our lead instructor for HardscapeLIVE! 2018. Frank educated us all on tools of the trade, lighting and water features, and amazed the crowd with intricate designs of raised patios and barbecues. HardscapeLIVE! continues to be a main attraction at Congress. We are very excited to build upon the momentum from 2018 to provide an even bigger and better experience at Congress 2019. With the return of Frank Bourque, HardscapeLIVE! will continue to be a leading-edge feature that drives educational initiatives within the profession. Respectfully submitted, Shawn Giovanetti Chair 2017-2018
Respectfully submitted, John Mantel Chair 2017-2018 WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 43
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT Irrigation
Landscape Contractors
I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all members of the LO Irrigation Sector Group for their hard work and dedication over the past year. This year, the weather brought a lot of challenges to our sector. A cool, wet spring caused a delay in getting onto job sites and performing system start ups, which condensed our spring, and also taxed our workforce. The hot and dry summer kept us busy throughout the summer months and well into fall. Being able to find reliable, qualified staff is an increasing issue for our sector, and I foresee this as an even bigger issue in the future. New “smart” technology continues to lead the way in controller operation and how we manage our sites. This constantly-evolving technology makes ongoing education very important to contractors who must prove they can use the components to be successful. This is what makes the Water Smart Irrigation Professional (WSIP) program so important. The annual Irrigation Conference saw a change in both timing and location this year, held Feb. 2, 2018, at Lionhead Golf and Conference Centre in Brampton, Ont. The full-day Irrigation Conference had approximately 110 professionals in attendance. The conference featured the following speakers: • Rob Cooke, Central Turf and Irrigation Supply, on “IT” for Irrigation Water Management. • Jim Lloyd, CIC, on Profitable Pricing of Irrigation Systems, and Selling Profitable Irrigation Systems. • Jeremy Harris, Region on Peel, on Water Smart Irrigation Professional Program. A special thank you to all our sponsors who ensure the quality of speakers for the event. In addition to our annual learning event, the sector group has been working on: • Continuing with the WSIP program with Peel and York. • Promotion of the certification program. • Labour issues – qualified workers. • Promoting the professionalism of the irrigation sector. • Developing an irrigation library at Landscape Ontario. The future looks good for contractors who keep up with new technologies and training. The Irrigation Sector Group will continue to work with municipalities to be part of the solution.
The annual Contractor Lecture, an initiative of the LO Landscape Contractor Sector Group, took place Feb. 22, 2018 at Lionhead Golf and Conference Centre in Brampton, Ont. Chris Mace, Vice President of Landscape and Design at Gelderman Landscape Services, presented a very interesting slide presentation that highlighted many challenges and successes over Chris’ career as a landscape designer and project manager. Mark Hartley followed with a presentation of select projects he has designed over his 30 years as one of Toronto’s foremost landscape architects. The 2019 Contractor Lecture will feature Darren Bosch, Design and Client Services Manage for The Landmark Group. Darren will share his experiences working with a successful landscape contractor. Lisa Rapoport, Partner, PLANT Architect, will provide a landscape architect’s perspective to those in attendance. The lecture will take place on Jan. 10, 2019 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., and is co-locating with Congress ’19. Members of the sector group have assisted the organizing committee of Canada Blooms, the Toronto’s Flower and Garden Festival, in helping to select builders for the 2019 festival. The sector group has also assisted with GreenLIVE! in the preparation of its program for Congress 2019. GreenLIVE! is a joint effort of the International Society of Arboriculture Ontario (ISAO) and the LO Growers Group. The initiative features experts on the show floor covering a variety of plant material-related topics of interest to contractors and grounds professionals on the proper handling, planting and transporting of plant material. A major initiative undertaken by the group and spearheaded by past Chair, Peter Guinane, was the preparation and delivery of an estimating workshop for landscape contractors throughout the province. Peter presented to LO’s Upper Canada Chapter last winter, and plans are being made to make the seminar available as a video presentation. New initiatives being explored by the sector group include: • The development of programs aimed at attracting recent immigrants, including refugees, to the landscape trades. • The effects and costs of attracting and keeping staff under the Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act, 2017 (Bill 148), including the increases to minimum wage. • Updating the group’s Labour Rate Card. • The development of an insurance or warranty program for clients of LO contractors.
Chair and Provincial Board Rep: Steve Macartney Past Chair: Chris Le Conte Members: Dean Armstrong, Paul Barker, Tyler Burnell, Andrew Cordeiro, Mark Donohue, Jeremy Harris, Steve Hernandez, John Lamberink, Steve Marysiuk, Don McQueen, Roy Neves, Paul Proulx, Tony Serwatuk, Natnael Taera
Respectfully submitted, Steve Macartney Chair 2017-2018 44 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
Chair: Allan Kling CLP Provincial Board Rep: Peter Guinane Members: Thomas Blatter, Janet Ennamorato, Jason Gaw, Arvils Lukss, Joseph Morello, Rob Redden
Respectfully submitted, Allan Kling CLP Chair 2017-2018
Landscape Designers
Chair: Jen Cuddie Past Chair: Chris Clayton Provincial Board Rep: Kelly Keates Members: Paul Brydges, Erin Crawford-Ellis, Brandon Gelderman, Sean James, Ron Koudys, Laura Marsh, Nick Morgante, Carolyne Planck, Fred Post, Haig Seferian, Ron Swentiski, Audriana VanderWerf, Andrea Weddum Our sector received news just a few days after the Landscape Designers Conference in January that altered the path to legislative recognition of our profession; The Ontario Attorney General turned down the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA) request for a Practice Act. I believe landscape designers should determine their future in light of the OALA not being able to go ahead with their legislation agenda as proposed. It should take two years to get things sorted out. Now is an opportunity for designers to consult and work out a new direction. To that end, I stepped down as chair of the group in April to create new leadership for landscape designers, and to avoid any perceived conflict of interest because I am a full member of the OALA. Jen Cuddie was elected Chair for 2018. Respectfully submitted, Christopher Clayton Chair 2017-2018 Chair: Jen Cuddie (current) I agree with Chris’ comments regarding the opportunity to consult with designers, as we continue to support the OALA with the understanding of the benefit it will create for designers in creating a Name Act. We are developing a survey that will be circulated at the 2019 Designer Conference and online, to determine regionally what resources would be valuable to landscape designers. From there, we are hoping to create some development strategies to both support and educate them. The work of the sector group continues to ensure a smooth Design Conference 2019, and we are continuing work with CNLA to review portfolios of CLD candidates. We have developed a subcommittee to review the marking template and some of the content around the CLD process, to continually streamline it for both applicants and those who administer it. Respectfully submitted, Jen Cuddie Chair 2018
Lighting
Chair: Carl Hastings Provincial Board Rep: Jamie Riddell Members: Terry Childs, Frank DiMarco, John Higo, Ron Iserhot, Ken Martin, Rob Redden, James Solecki The LO Lighting Sector Group had a very busy year and continues its work in the areas of professional development, education, and eventually, certification. The group is also working on initiatives that will help to raise the awareness of professional outdoor lighting design and installation. Our 9th annual Landscape Lighting Conference was held Feb. 1, 2018 at Lionhead Golf and Conference Centre in Brampton, Ont. This event featured a number of workshops throughout the day. Guest speakers included: John Higo and James Riddell (live demonstration on variations of lamp and integrated light technology); Frank DiMarco (trials and tribulations of running a successful business); Carl Hasting and Conrad Monteiro (purchasing a company); and James Solecki (architectural side of landscape lighting). Special thanks to all of our sponsors who helped support the event to ensure it was a success. The group also participated in judging the landscape lighting categories in Landscape Ontario’s annual Awards of Excellence program. Once again, the group offered their services to the feature garden builders at Canada Blooms, and assisted with the planning of the 2018 event. We will continue to work with organizers for the 2019 festival. In 2019, one of our main priorities is to continue to promote the value and significant role of the lighting sector. Respectfully submitted, Carl Hastings Chair 2017-2018
Turfgrass Management (formerly Lawn Care)
Chair: Gavin Dawson Vice Chair: Kyle Tobin Provincial Board Rep: Alan White Members: Scott Bowman, Dr. Michael Brownbridge PhD, Kevin Falls, Paul Gaspar, Rohan Harrison, John Ladds, John Mcintosh, Don McQueen, Ken Pavely, Tom Somerville, Tim Tripp, Steve Tschanz, Bill Van Ryn, Kerry Whale Our group entered 2018 with a new name, formerly the Lawn Care Sector Group, we now work together under the more appropriately named, Turfgrass Management Group. We believe this more accurately identifies the sector of the green industry that our group of professionals practice their trade. We saw 2018 begin with another successful IPM WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 45
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT Symposium, which annually occurs the day before the Congress trade show begins. This year’s Symposium saw an ever-increasing diversity of attendees, including those from professional lawn care, sports turf, golf, and municipal parks and public works employees. These attendees were provided a wide range of seminar topics, from lawn pests and diseases, to invasive plants, turfgrass benefits, the environment, and weather patterning. Once again, on Earth Day weekend in April, a clean-up of St James Park in Toronto was organized by Kyle Tobin and Alan White, members of the Turfgrass Management Group. They were assisted by more than 30 Landscape Ontario member company volunteers and joined by local residents, members of the St. Lawrence Market Business Improvement Association, and even Toronto Police Services. With sponsorship by LO member companies Plant Products and Lawn Life, their work included raking, core aeration, seeding and fertilizing the park’s turfgrass. 2018 gave us a summer of hot, dry conditions throughout many areas of the province. Similar to the summer of 2016, this presented a challenge for our industry professionals to provide timely weed control. As can be expected, these conditions were ideal for a range of turfgrass insect infestation and damage, from chinch bug to billbug to sod webworm. Equally frustrating was the flourishing canopy of crabgrass that invaded many turfgrass areas. With an extremely limited, and in many of these cases, empty, tool box of control products, our industry professionals battled through 2018 to meet the demands of clients and care for their landscapes. The Turfgrass Management Group has been engaged in several key projects in 2018. Most notably is an effort to provide awareness to the environmental benefits of healthy turfgrass in the urban environment. To this end, our group has distributed a Request for Proposal (RFP) to research groups across North America for the completion of a scientific literature review of the environmental benefits of turfgrass. While there are many studies, papers, and research documents that have broached this topic, the purpose of this review is to include studies that address the carbon balance of the inputs required to develop and maintain healthy turf. We passionately believe this topic is poorly understood, misrepresented to the public, and as stewards of the environment, deserving of our attention. The ultimate goal is provide a plain language document, supported by the science-based content of this literature review, to raise awareness of the environmental benefits of turfgrass. Respectfully submitted, Gavin Dawson Chair 2018-2019
46 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
Snow and Ice Management
Chair: Jamie Perras Treasurer: Robert Roszell Provincial Board Rep: Mark Humphries Members: Jon Agg, David Amadori, Paul BeauParlant, Gerald Boot CLM, Dan Booth, Megan Campbell, Thomas Carre, Lee Gould, Jim Monk, Terry Nicholson, Brian Perras, Phill Sexton, Shawn Sowten, Robert Tester, Martin Tirado Our Snowposium event was moved to Lionhead Golf and Country Club this year, as Landscape Ontario’s home office is currently under renovation. The change in venue meant we were unable to include the equipment trade show, however, that did not affect attendance of the event. We had one of the most successful Snowposiums ever. Thank you to all of the organizers and sponsors for their hard work and generosity to bring back our Snowposium after a one year hiatus. This past year, we have continued to focus our efforts on a solution to the issues surrounding slip and fall lawsuits. A big step was creating the Snow and Ice Operations Risk Management Guideline. The long-term strategy is to use the Smart about Salt (SAS) Program, along with the new Guidelines, to enhance the professionalism of Landscape Ontario members so that we can reduce the liability associated with snow operations. Key objectives: Deal with slip and fall issues: • Created the Snow and Ice Operations Risk Management Guideline. • Plan to make this available to all members through LO Enews, magazines, trade shows, and chapter meetings in the near future. • Landscape Ontario plans to host workshops to help members understand how to use this guideline to improve their own risk management processes. Government relations: • Last year, we retained lawyer, Rob Kennaley, to review the New Hampshire legislative models regarding liability issues and report back his findings. His report was helpful in creating the Snow and Ice Operations Risk Management Guidelines. Environmental stewardship: • Continue to educate contractors on best practices and calibration when applying salt. We plan on having a calibration demonstration at Snowposium 2019. • Work with the World Wildlife Fund Canada (WWF) to find a solution to reduce the amount of chlorides in the Great Lakes. Respectfully submitted, Jamie Perras Chair 2017-2018
2018 Commitee reports Building Committee
Chair: Karl Stensson Directors: Hank Gelderman CLT, Haig Seferian CLD, Marc Thiebaud, Rene Thiebaud, Bob Tubby CLM, David Turnbull, Neil Vanderkruk, Charlie Wilson After many years looking at various scenarios, budgets and architectural drawings for the Landscape Ontario home office renovation project, I am delighted to report the complete building renovation finally became a reality in 2018. The project will see the renovation of the existing warehouse space to feature new, expanded offices for both LO staff and tenants, more, larger classrooms (including a practical classroom), proper storage and lunchroom and more meeting space. The renovation will meet both current and long-term needs of the association. The final concept and budget were presented at a special Building Committee meeting held Dec. 20, 2017. Those details were then presented, and approved, at a special Provincial Board of Directors meeting held immediately after the LO AGM on Jan. 10, 2018. With an approved budget of $5.1 million, the construction contract was awarded to Maple Reinders and a kick-off construction meeting was held May 1, 2018. This meeting signified the first time all key players (design, construction, staff and members) were together at the same meeting. With demolition set to begin in the summer of 2018, LO staff and tenants were required to pack up and move out of the building by July 1. Staff are currently working from a temporary office elsewhere in Milton. The building permit application was submitted to the Town of Milton in late June and approved in early August. A complete demolition of the interior of the building took place over a couple of weeks in early August. By that time, the demolition permit was also obtained. For the past several months, a core construction team has met regularly on-site every two weeks to go over details, make decisions, and discuss any issues related to the project. The LO team includes project manager, Tom Ingersoll. Tom’s expertise in estimating and construction management ensures a keen eye is being kept on the budget, and that LO representatives can make informed decisions to keep the project on track. When it is completed in 2019, the brand new LO building will better reflect the values, professionalism and leadership of both the association, its mission and our members. It will help our goal of raising the professionalism of those in the industry by providing a world-class facility for training, education and
networking of which all members can be proud. As we look forward to this exciting, new future, we must also reflect on our history and our past. In March, longstanding committee member, visionary and LO past president, Paul Olsen, passed away. The owner of Brookdale Treeland Nursery, Paul often voiced his opinion (rather vocally) in many building committee meetings. Paul always stressed the need for the association to occupy both a building and a property that truly reflected the passion, expertise and skill of the association and its members. Paul’s vision is becoming a reality. The building will forever be a part of Paul’s widespread legacy. CNLA and Canada Blooms will also operate from the renovated building. CNLA has purchased a 10 per cent stake in the property for just over $1.2 million. A design committee with the expertise of Haig Seferian, Paul Brydges, Ron Koudys, Scott Wentworth and David Wright has also met and begun the process of creating a landscape design to complement the new building and to also act as a showcase for the entire profession. LO members can follow the progress of the home office renovation via a blog available at gfl.me/h4a3. Respectfully submitted, Karl Stensson Chair 2017-2018
Canada Blooms
Canada Blooms celebrated its 22nd anniversary in 2018. Over 22 years, we have become one of the world’s best garden events. In March, Canada Blooms was named by American Express as one of the Top 5 Festivals in the world held in March. Everyone who has built, volunteered and supported Canada Blooms has a lot to be proud of. In 2018, Canada Blooms had a total attendance of 166,891 visitors. We have inspired over 2,230,000 potential gardeners, environmentalists, floral enthusiasts, and maybe even some eventual employees over the past 22 years. In 2018, Canada Blooms was proud to partner with Landscape Ontario member, Joe Genovese of Genoscape Landscape, to build the Highway of Heroes Garden. This was one of the finest and most important gardens ever built at Canada Blooms over the 22 years. The garden helped to raise both awareness and funds for this important project. Canada Blooms also supports the many non-profit areas of our industry. At the 2018 festival, Canada Blooms donated floor space and exposure valued by our auditors at $586,795. WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 47
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT Landscape Ontario members on the Canada Blooms 2017/18 Board were: Janet Ennamorato (co-chair) Jeff Winkelmolen, Ryan Heath and Lou Savoia. Joining the board for 2017/18 is Charlie Bancheri and Lindsey Drake Nightingale. Respectfully submitted, Janet Ennamorato Co-Chair 2017-2018
Canadian Nursery Landscape Association
Landscape Ontario members present on the CNLA Board of Directors: Provincial Representative and Climate Change Adaptation Chair: Alan White Past President: Rene Thiebaud Vice President, Member Services and Insurance Chair: Gerald Boot CLM Human Resources Chair: Harold Deenen CLM The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) is a national, not-for-profit federation of nine provincial landscape and horticulture trades associations, which represent over 3,900 member companies in the landscape, retail garden centre, and nursery sectors. Once membership is approved with Landscape Ontario, the company automatically gains access to the national association, CNLA. The CNLA Executive Committee has identified six tactical priorities to focus on over the two years of Bruce Hunter’s presidency. These six areas are: public relations and climate change, government relations, provincial memberships, industry human resources, revenue generation, and professional development. Each of these priorities are considered with each project and activity undertaken by the association. Skills Canada National Competition CNLA’s Industry Human Resources Committee supported the 2018 Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC) in the Landscape Gardening section. Seven teams competed at the Edmonton Expo Centre, June 4-5. The team from Nova Scotia won the event, with Ontario placing second and Quebec in third. Skills Canada hosts regional competitions across the country each year, culminating with the national event. Skills Canada 2019 will be held in Halifax, N.S., at the Halifax Exhibition Centre, May 28-29. Limited availability of skilled labour has been identified by the CNLA Executive Committee as a key priority. By supporting Skills Canada, CNLA hopes to connect with and encourage youth to choose a career in our profession.
48 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
IGCA Congress CNLA Executive Director, Victor Santacruz, Garden Centres Canada Chair, Robin Godfrey and GCC staff lead Bill Kiervin, attended the International Garden Centre Association (IGCA) Congress in Prague, Czech Republic, Sept. 16-21, 2018. Over five days, 180 members from 19 countries toured nine different garden centres, one of the largest nurseries in the country, one big box competitor and one supplier factory. Delegates were welcomed at almost every stop by local musicians playing traditional music. The range of products included plants, trees and cut flowers, florist services, of course, but also clothing, wines, soaps, oils, tea, gourmet foods and cafés. One garden centre had over 150,000 café customers last fiscal year. Truly, these centres are destinations worth visiting. Another great initiative coming out of the Congress is the announcement of a Student Exchange Program, where young industry members can connect with a host garden centre in another country to gain and exchange valuable experiences. More information on this venture will be available in the new year. The Congress also had business sessions where information was shared on the top issues facing members (weather, economy, finding qualified staff, changing consumer behaviour and competition). Additional metrics included average sales per customer and labour costs, among others. There were three morning seminar presentations from industry veterans which became topics of conversation on the buses as we headed out on the tours. IGCA Congress will be held in Windsor, England, Sept. 1-6, 2019. Climate Change Adaptation Committee During the August 2016 CNLA summer meetings in Kelowna, B.C., the CNLA Board of Directors approved a motion to create the Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) standing committee. The original goal of the committee was to investigate the creation of a CNLA foundation. At the January 2017 CNLA meetings in Toronto, Ont., the CCA committee recommended a foundation be created, and a motion was approved to create the “Green Cities Foundation.” Today, there are two distinct groups: the CCA standing committee, an oversight group made up of CNLA committee chairs, and the Green Cities Foundation, an arms-length organization currently made up of both industry representation (CNLA) and non-industry individuals with a commitment to fulfilling the mission of the foundation, “Connecting plants and people for a greener, healthier urban climate.” Mary AzizStoetzer was hired in 2018 as the executive director of the foundation. Currently, the foundation is still awaiting approval of charitable status from the Canada Revenue Agency. Each CNLA committee has a role to play in terms of climate change adaptation. We need to be seen as experts on this subject matter. The public needs to understand the value of our members’ products and services. Industry needs a strong
voice with government to influence policy. The CCA committee will work to align individual committee priorities, to provide one voice in the broader climate narrative in order to provide a sustainable and prosperous future for our members. Member Services Committee The Member Services Committee works to ensure members have access to discount programs that directly impact their bottom line. The vehicle and equipment programs continue to be the most popular among members, with thousands of dollars worth of discounts available. Members can access the extensive list of member savings programs through the CNLA website or by contacting the Member Services Team. Government Relations Committee CNLA staff, along with Government Relations Chair, Michael Murray, are building and maintaining relationships with key individuals in Ottawa (and across Canada), to give members a voice at the federal, provincial and municipal levels. Key areas of focus include promoting the Canadian Landscape Standard (CLS) as the single, authoritative resource for landscape construction projects across Canada. We also continue working toward the creation of a National Garden Centre of Environmental Excellence in Ottawa. National garden CNLA and Canadensis: The Garden of Canada (Canadensis), formed a working group to increase collaboration in the pursuit of a national botanical garden in Ottawa, Ont. Representatives for each group met in Ottawa on May 17, 2018, to discuss strategies as well as a potential stakeholder meeting and public forum in the fall of 2018 to advance the goal of a botanical garden in our nation’s capital. Tim Kearney, CNLA staff for the national garden and Landscape Canada, was named chair of the working group by members: Gerry Lajeunesse, Canadensis acting chair; John Westeinde, Canadensis board member; Jeff Turner, CNLA Ottawa board member; and Richard Rogers, CNLA Ottawa board member. Canadensis will name another member to finalize the group of six. Canadensis is a registered charity based in Ottawa, Ont., dedicated to creating a national botanical garden in the capital. Canadensis develops summer garden projects and related programming on a yearly basis at the future Canadensis site within the Central Experimental Farm in Ottawa with the support of the National Capital Commission (NCC) and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC). The charity also published a comprehensive business plan for a national garden in 2012, and will be releasing an updated document in the coming months. The new working group marks a commitment by CNLA and Canadensis to work together and to present a unified voice to stakeholders and government officials in the promotion of a national botanical garden in Ottawa. More information regarding a stakeholder meeting, planned for 2019, will be shared as soon as possible.
Professional Development Committee The Professional Development Committee (PDC) is committed to achieving national Red Seal Harmonization. The committee also works on the Landscape Industry Certification program and improving access and uptake on Apprenticeship Programs. In 2018, the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) announced plans to reshape the Landscape Industry Certification (LIC) Technician Exam for Hardscape and Softscape Installation, as well as Ornamental and Turf Maintenance modules. NALP owns the LIC program, which the CNLA, via provincial associations, is a licensee of the program. NALP is developing an online format that will replace current, hands-on and written testing. CNLA’s Professional Development Committee (PDC) is reviewing the proposed changes to ensure the new test and testing method will meet the needs of industry across Canada. Conclusion In conclusion, CNLA’s mission is to undertake initiatives and form alliances in order to achieve sustainable prosperity for members and stakeholders. CNLA staff and volunteers work hard to ensure members get the most out of the association. Respectfully submitted, Alan White CNLA Representative 2018
Communications Committee Chair: Hank Gelderman Members: Gerald Boot CLM, Laura Catalano, Jeremy Feenstra, Mark Fisher, Marty Lamers, Bob Tubby, Nick Winkelmolen, Dave Wright
I have served on LO’s Communications Committee (formerly Publishing Committee) for many years, and appreciate the important role communications plays in LO’s continued success. Landscape Ontario magazine informs members of association initiatives and events, recognizes volunteers, and serves as LO’s official record. We have extended its reach and effectiveness with LO Enews. Same mission, different medium. The association is also supported and energized by our outstanding website, HortTrades.com. Recent improvements include suggested related content, and improved archiving of magazine stories. The site attracts over 9,000 users per month. Sister magazine, Landscape Trades, serves a totally different audience: 8,834 horticulture professionals across Canada. It provides authoritative information to promote business success for the green trades that is available nowhere else. Advertising revenue from Landscape Trades significantly supports LO’s goals. Plans for 2019 include a new February issue, expected to improve both reader service and ad revenue. WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 49
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT Besides publishing hundreds of print and electronic pages every year, your Communications team serves as an in-house creative agency for Congress and other LO initiatives. Consumer promotion is another important service your team provides. Green for Life, LandscapeOntario.com and public relations efforts all promote the joys and benefits of horticulture and connect potential customers with LO members. The Committee thanks longstanding sales manager, Steve Moyer, for his professional efforts over so many years and wishes him well as he looks forward to his next chapter. Committee members have dedicated a tree in the Highway of Heroes Living Tribute campaign in Steve’s honour. I continue to be impressed by the energy, enthusiasm and passion of the LO Communications team, and believe LO members are getting outstanding value from the team’s efforts. Thanks are also due to Committee members, who volunteer their time to provide valuable guidance. Respectfully submitted, Hank Gelderman Chair 2017-2018
Show Committee
Chair: Nathan Helder Vice chair: Terry Childs Past chair: Michael LaPorte CHT Members: Brian Cocks CHT, Douglas Coote, Paul deGroot, Everett DeJong, Barry Dickson, Lindsay Drake Nightingale, Beth Edney CLD, Kim Iceton, Christopher Muller, Rebecca Parker, Mike Riehm, Klaas Sikkema, Peter Vanderley, Jason Vettese Congress is proudly hosted by Landscape Ontario’s Show Committee. The many events that make up Congress serve the dual purpose of meeting members’ needs for product sourcing and for professional development. The events include: exhibits, education seminars, peer networking, and special features, such as the New Product Showcase, HardscapeLIVE!, DriveLIVE!, GreenLIVE! and student gardens. Congress, Canada’s Premier Green Industry Trade Show and Conference, ran Jan. 9-11, 2018. Canada’s top green industry event generated a lot of energy among both exhibitors and industry professionals, who helped to celebrate 45 years of beautifying Ontario. Among the main highlights was the upswing in exhibit sales. Revenue trended nearly $40,000 above the event’s budget of $2.1 million. Attendance increased by two per cent over 2017, with close to 14,500 delegates. Partner, the Canadian Fence Industry Association (CFIA), and sponsors were on hand to celebrate, including: Banas Stones, Stone Arch, G&L Group, Landscape Ontario Hardscape Committee, Landscape Trades magazine, Connon Nurseries/ CBV, NVK Holding, Landscape Ontario Growers Group, Dynascape, LMN and Greenius. 50 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
We enjoyed continued success of our Digital VIP Pass campaign. It again helped to increase the attendance at the show. The digital passes allow exhibitors to market the show to their dealers, suppliers and customers, with the ability to send custom messages to those audiences, encouraging them to visit their booths at Congress. 2018 also marked the second year for the Congress smartphone app. This app gives both exhibitors and attendees full access to show information in the palm of their hand. The app’s download rate tripled from last year’s launch. HardscapeLIVE! returned to the show floor for a third year, with a new presenter, Frank Bourque, offering live demonstrations twice daily. LO’s Hardscape Committee worked to ensure the topics were relevant to the audience. This perennial feature was once again a success and helped delegates enhance their technical know-how. GreenLIVE!, a new feature, was an up-close approach to learning important basics of tree selection, preparation, planting and maintenance. In partnership with Landscape Ontario’s Growers Group and International Society of Arboriculture - Ontario (ISAO), GreenLIVE! included several experts on stage, twice daily. Topics included: Selection of Trees, Plant Handling and Transport, Site Preparation, Proper Planting Techniques, Maintenance During Establishment and Long Term Care. The sessions highlighted dos and don’ts to prepare contractors for the upcoming season. The New Product Showcase was revamped this year, with added décor and lighting. The redesign highlighted new equipment, tools and technology, new plant introductions and planting innovations. There’s no better place to get an overview of the latest and most creative product releases than at the New Product Showcase. Attendees get to see and learn about hot industry trends, all in one place. It is an exciting and “must see” feature. The Canada Blooms Campus (student gardens) returned this year. A few hundred students spent two days building gardens. Participating schools included: Durham Collage, Fanshawe College, Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture, and University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus. Materials were provided by a number of exhibitors and LO members. Lunch was sponsored and hosted by Gelderman Landscaping Services. Brian Cocks volunteered his time and expertise to oversee the safety and operations during the build. The conference program that runs concurrently with the trade show was formatted to optimize scheduling and to deliver maximum value to attendees. Each day began with a keynote speaker, followed by multiple sessions to improve the business skills of members of our profession. A number of events were revamped and helped to bring new energy to the event as a whole. The LO Awards of Excellence ceremony, IPM Symposium, Landscape Designer Conference, Peer to Peer Network workshop, Garden Centre Symposium and Tailgate Party, all helped to strengthen the community culture for our delegates.
I would like to thank our generous partners for their continued support of this great event. Their contributions enhance Congress and the attendee experience. I would also like to thank Kristen McIntyre, former Conference and Event Manager at Landscape Ontario. Kristen was a dedicated employee of Landscape Ontario for 18 years and contributed to elevating the Congress Conference to the high level standard it is today. Kristen has left Landscape Ontario to pursue other opportunities and we wish her all the best. Finally, it is my pleasure to thank the many dedicated volunteers and committee members for all their guidance, insights and help. Our success stems from the personal touch that our volunteers add to our events. The Trade Show team continues to be a strong group of leaders who are willing to take risks and try out new things. They continue to lead the way for shows within the North American market. Respectfully submitted, Nathan Helder Chair 2018
Human Resource Development Chair: Harold Deenen CLM Members: Paul Doornbos CLM, CLT; Harry Gelderman CLT; Peter Guinane; Michael Pascoe CLT; Richard Rogers CLT; Alan White
The Human Resource Committee had a busy year in light of the political arena in Ontario, and the many changes in labour legislation. Nonetheless, it was another successful year with focus on innovative partnerships, programs and services, advancing our government relations and expanding our voice to support a progressive business environment on behalf of our member businesses. Our efforts continued toward achieving our goal to develop a highly-skilled workforce of choice, employed by employers of choice. This committee oversees the activities of Landscape Ontario’s Education and Labour Development department. We are pleased to present a brief summary of the highlights of the past year. Workforce promotion and development Increasing the availability of a skilled workforce remains our top priority. Strategic partnerships and programs focused on promoting and developing our future workforce to build a supply who may choose to funnel through any of the four pathways: direct to work, Apprenticeship, college, university. With that, we added to our internal capacity to support workforce career promotion by welcoming Lissa Schoot Uiterkamp as LO’s new Youth Engagement and Come Alive Outside Program Coordinator to our team. The GreenCareersCanada.ca website continues to be a growing tool that provides valuable information and resources
aimed at our incumbent and the future workforce, parents, educators, policy makers and employers within the profession. LO continues to support the over 100 green industry feeder programs and 24 Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) in horticulture and landscape programs across the province. Thanks to strong leadership provided by our co-chairs: Michael Pascoe, Fanshawe College and Tyler Graham, Westlane Secondary School, LO worked on behalf of the Horticulture Educators Association (HEA) to continue to focus on improving awareness and opportunities for connecting educators, students and secondary and post-secondary programs with careers and program supports. A priority has been to develop a new pilot program that involves employers and suppliers to the profession that will support SHSM students and teachers toward achieving required experiential learning certificates in the areas of tree planting, equipment operation and hardscape sections, etc. Official launch is anticipated in 2019. LO continued to participate in several workforce development and promotion events and experiential learning days/programs aimed at attracting those from underrepresented groups (youth, women, low income earners, Aboriginal or First Nation and, newcomers) to our profession across the province this past year. After presentations to over 100 technical teachers, the Upper Canada School Boards and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), contracted us to deliver a Women in Trades (WIT) experiential learning day for 320 secondary school girls at Kemptville Campus in May. It was an amazing event, that changed minds! LO partnered with the Rideau Ottawa Valley Learning Network, and other Employment Ontario providers to pilot the Ready Set Grow Program in Ottawa that provided adults learners with a ‘career tasting’ of what the profession has to offer and then connected them to our employers, and pathways to develop their careers. Our reach was extended with the support of many employers who were provided presentation templates and print resources by LO to support their firm’s workforce development and recruitment activities in their communities. The Skills Ontario Elementary Workshops enabled over 300 grade seven students to experience a planting activity that resulted in them taking home a planter full of edibles and native plants, accompanied with care sheets that included career information. The Skills Ontario Competition was another success, with both the Horticulture and Landscape, and Landscape Design competitions hosting a record number of competitors (over 50 secondary and post-secondary student competitors). Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation (OHTF) generously donated monetary prizes for first, second and third place winners. Special recognition goes to Algonquin College, who represented Team Ontario this year at the National Competition and put Ontario back on the podium, achieving a silver medal in the Landscape Gardening Competition. Landscape Ontario began a new level of partnership with Come Alive Outside (CAO) and successfully coordinated nine WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 51
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT Green Street Challenges and two Design Challenges in Ontario in 2018. This program has created positive awareness and recognition of the contributions and benefits provided by the landscape and horticulture profession to over 15,000 youth and families in our communities across Ontario. The CAO Design Challenge provided designs to both C.M.L. Snider in Prince Edward County and P.L. Robertson in Milton. The CAO Design Challenge engages post-secondary landscape design students to design a natural play space based on the ideas gained from a collaborative workshop with the school teachers, parent council members and students. The designs are created with mentorship from an LO member companies, who work with the school to make the winning design a reality. Our workforce development strategies connected on many levels with the provincial mandate letters assigned to the respective Ministries overseeing secondary and postsecondary education released by the previous government. Since the June election, there have been numerous strategic points of contact with the new government to communicate our professions’ priorities that we expect will support policy forward. Horticulture Technician/Landscape Horticulturist Apprenticeship Program LO completed its second year as a Group Sponsor (GS) in the Eastern Ontario region, and due to the success in the east, we expanded our program to the south western region. The GS program was initiated as a solution to support employers, employees and apprentices with the complex Apprenticeship program application, registration and completion process. We continue to support our five colleges offering the in-class training portion of the program: Algonquin College (Ottawa), Fanshawe College (London), Humber College (Toronto), Loyalist College (Belleville) and Mohawk College (Stoney Creek). Starting at Congress 2018, LO mobilized a strategic awareness and engagement campaign to increase registration numbers. LO participated in numerous Apprenticeship events over the year to promote the program within the profession to youth, job-seekers, government and potential partners. We broke ground at Canada Blooms 2018, with the launch of the first Apprenticeship booth, promoting the Horticulture Technician program and related apprenticeship programs to the public in partnership with the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development/Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities (MAESD/MTCU) and the Ontario College of Trades (OCOT). This booth was a game changer both for awareness to the consumer, but also for our partners in Apprenticeship. The program promotion efforts have resulted in increased inquiries and 400-500 website hits monthly. The accelerated efforts of our Group Sponsor program have resulted in increased registrations for Level 1 (from 65 to 131) from Sept. 52 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
1, 2016-Aug. 31. 2017, compared to Sept. 1, 2017-Aug. 31, 2018. In addition, it is important to note the Group Sponsor program has enabled and advanced our government relations opportunities and provided access to partnerships and programs that support our workforce development objectives. LO appreciates the work undertaken by the MAESD/MTCU and OCOT to enable our profession’s Horticulture Technician Apprenticeship program and workforce development initiatives. Professional development Strategic partnerships and programs focused on providing 115 relevant professional development opportunities to our 1,350 professional employers and their workforce from across the province. In response to ongoing requests for more on-line learning opportunities, we continue to investigate and partner with on-line training providers. The Water Smart Irrigation Professional (WSIP) training and certification program sponsored by our municipal partners, the Region of Peel, York Region and the City of Hamilton, continues to provide specialized training and certification to the sector. The program is growing and currently promotes 34 certified companies and 68 individuals as Water Smart Irrigation Professionals that provide “water smart” irrigation system efficiency and maintenance services to clients to support environmental protection and sustainable water use. The Fusion Landscape Professional (FLP) training and certification program launched with strong participation in the fall of 2017 and winter 2018. Thanks to our municipal partners, the Regional Municipality of York and Peel Region, who recognize the critical role that the landscape profession has in addressing and managing the adverse effects of climate change, conserving water resources and addressing lot level stormwater management. The FLP program was developed to expand the current knowledge base for experienced professionals who provide design, installation, and/or maintenance products and services to their clients. The FLP program strives to inspire Fusion Landscapes as an industry standard and encourages collaboration between landscape professionals so that Fusion principles and elements are considered and incorporated into every landscape. Health and safety LO is active on many committees and represents the profession at numerous consultation tables to ensure our priorities are known. We are pleased to continue to build on our trusted partnership with Workplace Prevention Services (WSPS), to deliver health and safety communications, programs and resources to support our members toward providing healthy and safe workplaces. This past year has been busy as we navigated through significant legislative changes to the Employment Standards Act. We also participated in several areas of focus and consultations regarding: • Prevention System
• WSIB Rate Framework • Small Business Tools • Workplace Mental Health • Substance Abuse and Use/Fit for Work • Contractor Safety • Employer Accreditation • Supervisor Competency • Working at Heights • Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) • Designing Public Spaces • Websites, etc. We anticipate more changes in health and safety in 20182019. Landscape Industry Certification program The National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) announced plans to reshape the Landscape Industry Certification (LIC) Technician exam process for Hardscape and Softscape Installation, and Ornamental and Turf Maintenance modules this past summer. NALP is developing an online format that will replace the current hands-on and written testing format. LO’s committee, led by Harry Gelderman CLT, is supporting CNLA’s Professional Development Committee (PDC), in the review of the proposed changes to verify that the new test and testing method will meet the needs of industry across Canada. The LO and CNLA committees are working together to ensure that new candidates, as well as in-progress candidates, have as many opportunities as possible to complete the process and earn their designation. LO will continue to schedule exams in 2019 to support completions. Please note, those who have already achieved their certification will not be affected by these changes. The Ornamental Maintenance Test continues to be offered at Fanshawe College as the esteemed Integrated CLT test program in the country. This format is promising for the future of our post-secondary graduates and our profession as graduates leave with a Diploma in Horticulture and a CLT designation. Thanks to our Fanshawe partners for their ongoing support and leadership and for pioneering this opportunity for our future workforce. The Certified Landscape Designer (CLD), the Certified Landscape Manager (CLM) and the Landscape Company Accreditation programs continue to be offered to industry professionals and recognize firms and individuals who strive to be best in class. Government relations and advocacy We continued outreach and connection with multiple provincial ministries and organizations including: Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development/Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities, Ontario College of Trades,
Ministry of Transportation, Workplace Safety Prevention Services, Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, Ministry of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs, Canadian Agricultural Human Resources Council, the Labour Issues Coordinating Committee, and numerous other related organizations. This outreach allowed us several opportunities to inform policy that impacts our profession. Activities included informing government on modernization of the Apprenticeship program and employer sponsor incentives, along with participation in budget, labour relations and health and safety consultations. The conversation often focused on workforce development solutions. Our profession is experiencing a severe shortage of low, medium and high-skilled workers, due to the impact of the retiring workforce. We also are celebrating growing demand exasperated by government recognition of the role that landscape and horticulture professionals have in designing, building and maintaining green infrastructure and resolving issues caused by climate change that negatively impacts our communities. We are a profession known to have ‘in-demand’ careers. Our efforts will continue to focus on developing strategic solutions that reduce the pressures caused by a workforce shortage, and provide relevant workforce development and professional development opportunities that support our objectives to create a climate where our employers of choice who employ a workforce of choice can competently and professionally meet consumer demand. In closing, we reflect back to what was, indeed, an interesting year. The economy of our southern neighbours has been chugging along, despite what some may classify as questionable management on both sides of the border. The ripple effect has seen multiple increases in the Bank of Canada prime rate and an unusually low unemployment rate for Ontario. However, unemployment continues to be high for our youth, still hovering over 12 per cent, while people 25 and older are unemployed at a rate of 5 per cent. For obvious reasons, our government is focused on reducing this number. We are also focused on this potential group of future employees. While the government appears bent on closing our doors to new immigrants and offshore labour, we continue to lobby for the availability of this resource. It appears the folks in Ottawa are starting to listen and have even officially admitted there is something to this “seasonal” thing. Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), is also listening to us and want to sit down and “roll-up our sleeves,” to see if we can figure out a solution. The availability of labour continues to haunt our industry and I don’t see that changing in the near future. What I do know, is that the staff and volunteers of Landscape Ontario will continue working together to find a solution. Respectfully submitted, Harold Deenen CLM Chair 2017-2018
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2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT IPM Symposium
Chair: Steve Tschanz Committee members: Michael Brownbridge PhD, Gavin Dawson, Paul Gaspar, Rohan Harrison, John Mcintosh, Don McQueen CIT, Ken Pavely, Lee Ratcliffe, Richard Reed, Tom Somerville, Tim Tripp MSc, Kyle Tobin, Bill Van Ryn Jr, Don Voorhees, Kerry Whale, Alan White The 53rd annual Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Symposium was held in the Cohen Ballroom of the Toronto Congress Centre in conjunction with the 2018 Congress trade show and conference. The key to lawn IPM is the use of cultural practices that optimize growth of grasses and minimize conditions favourable to pest insects, weeds or pathogens. The IPM Symposium has been a uniquely respected event since 1965. The event qualifies attendees to earn Continuing Education Credits (CECs) from the IPM Council of Canada. The full-day event featured numerous topics on soil, common misconceptions, urban landscape, climate change and new challenges. Keynote speaker, James Garriss of Browning Media LLC, presented, “Weather Patterning for Turfgrass Success.” Others speakers included: • Jim Chatfield, Ohio State University, “Host Ranges of Pests & Pathogens: Why it Matters?” • Jennifer Llewellyn, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, “What the Foliage?” • Scott Olan, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, “Ministry of Environment and Climate Update.” • Kelli Sherman, Ontario Invasive Plant Council, “Top Three Invasive Plants Impacting Turf Professionals.” The day ended with a presentation by Dr. Michael Brownbridge from Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, titled, “Turfer than it looks: Sustainable Turf Systems and How They Benefit our Environment.” Special thanks to our sponsors. We could not achieve the high level of experience to our guests without their contributions. The IPM Symposium will continue to strive to educate professionals in the field of turf and landscape management. Thank you to the attendees for their continued support to the profession. Respectfully submitted, Steve Tschanz Chair 2017-2018
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Pesticide Industry Council Chair: Gavin Dawson Secretary: Tony DiGiovanni Manager PIC: Tom Somerville
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 had to be either 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 the Technician Status in order to legally apply pesticides. The Pesticide Technician Program (PTP) was established as the “basic pesticide safety course” to acquire Technician Status and meet the new requirements. The PTP is a twopart, basic pesticide 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 and has worked with MOE since 2000 to meet the requirements and administer the Pesticide Technician Program. Landscape Ontario agreed to be the administrator of the Pesticide Technician Program on behalf of the Ontario Ministry of Environment under the guidance of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). PIC is a council that has representation from Hydro One, Ontario Golf Superintendents Association, Professional Lawn Care Association of Ontario, Urban Pest Management Council, Crop Protection Institute, International Society of Arboriculture, Ontario Parks Association, Ontario Vegetation Management Association, Structural Pest Management Association, University of Guelph and Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association. This is the 18th year the Pesticide Industry Council has administered the Pesticide Technician Program and the 10th year working within the Cosmetic Ban on pesticides (Regulation 63-09). In the 2017-2018 season, over 860 technicians enrolled in the PTP program. Respectfully submitted, Tom Somerville Manager 2017-2018
2018 Volunteers Every year Landscape Ontario benefits from amazing contributions through the volunteer efforts of members, who serve their association throughout the year in a wide variety of duties. Sitting on various committees, LO members help to decide the future of the profession and the association, or helping to plan, organize and run many special events. Landscape Ontario’s world-class events, education and programs are the direct result of the thousands of volunteer hours that help to keep the association strong and valuable. Members who have freely offered their time, energy and expertise are listed below: Jamie Aalbers Northern Mini Roses Keren Abu M.E. Contracting Randy Adams RM Adams Trucking Robert Adams Adams Landscaping and Property Maintenance Jon Agg Pristine Property Maintenance Rob Albrecht John’s Nursery Brian Alcock Alcock Nurseries Bob Allen RW Allen Horticultural Services Kevin Almeida Almeida & Almeida Landscaping David Amadori Dean Armstrong Vanden Bussche Irrigation & Equipment Jessica Aytoun Carla Bailey TLC Professional Landscaping Justin Baker Wright Landscape Services Andrew Barbour Connon Nurseries/CBV Holdings Paul Barker Automatic Rain Andrew Barz Meadowbrook Landscape Contracting Jim Bauer Bauer Landscape & Garden Maintenance Paul BeauParlant Innovative Surface Solutions Sarah Beckon Allweather Landscape Rob Beedie Environs Wholesale Nursery Bill Beldham Barry Benjamin Barry Benjamin & Associates
Thomas Blatter CLP Dreamestate Landscaping Gerald Boot CLM Boot’s Landscaping & Maintenance Dan Booth B.P. Landscaping & Snow Removal John Bos Bos Landscaping Neil Bouma Picture Perfect Landscaping Quinte Frank Bourque CCPI, ARPT Greenmark Scott Bowman Speare Seeds Ryan Boyd Peter Smit & Sons Mark Bradley TBG Environmental Dave Braun Braun Nursery Michael Brownbridge PhD Vineland Research and Innovation Centre Paul Brydges CLD Brydges Landscape Architecture Cindy Buelow Baseline Nurseries & Garden Centre Steve Burgess Braun Nursery Tyler Burnell Burtro Lawn Sprinklers Margot Byers Ladybird Garden Design Megan Campbell Marsh Canada Thomas Carre Innovative Surface Solutions Marc Carriere Permacon Ottawa Laura Catalano Nisco National Leasing Harry Chang Humber College
Phil Charal Allweather Landscape Terry Childs Nature’s Way Landscaping Chris Clayton Christopher Clayton Landscape Architect Brian Cocks CHT Brian Cocks Nursery & Landscaping Andrew Colautti Cohen and Cohen Natural Stone Craig Cole Cedar Springs Landscape Group Pam Cook Fanshawe College Main Campus Douglas Coote DG Coote Enterprises Andrew Cordeiro Done-Right Lawn Sprinkler & Landscape Lighting Sal Costante Cedar Springs Decks and Fences Erin Crawford-Ellis Hill’N Dale Landscaping Tim Cruickshanks Cruickshanks Property Services Jen Cuddie Cuddie Landscape Planning Ben Cullen Mark’s Choice Bruce Cullen Toronto Zoo Mark Cullen Mark’s Choice Jon Cundy S. Charlebois Haulage and Excavating Andrew Dancsak CLT Permacon Gavin Dawson TRUGREEN Judy deBoer-Bell Treefrog Design Paul DeGroot NVK Holdings
Everett DeJong Redbud Supply Allard DeVries DeVries Landscaping & Maintenance Lexi Dearborn Dearborn Designs & Associates Harold Deenen CLP Hank Deenen Landscaping Bill Degraaf Permacon Keith Desjardins Desjardins Landscaping Michael Di Nunzio Vanden Bussche Irrigation & Equipment Frank DiMarco DiMarco Landscape Lighting Barry Dickson B.R. Dickson Equipment Jason Dietrich Ace Lawn Care Paulo Domingues Aquaman Irrigation Mark Donohue Rain Bird International Paul Doornbos CLP, CLT Thornbusch Landscaping Company Lindsay Drake Nightingale Yorkshire Garden Services Jon Durzi Miller Waste Systems (Miller Compost) Ken Dutka Hill’N Dale Landscaping Jim Edmonds The Gardener Landscaping Beth Edney CLD Designs By The Yard Janet Ennamorato Creative Garden Designs Kevin Falls Speare Seeds Jeremy Feenstra Floristerra Greenhouses and Landscape Centre
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2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT Carmine Filice CLP Greentario Landscaping (2006) Mark Fisher The Escarpment Company Carol Fulford Gerrits Property Services Michael Garcia Soares Landscaping Dan Garlatti Garlatti Landscaping Trevor Garner LP Landscape Plus Paul Gaspar Weed Man - Toronto Jason Gaw Sycamore Landscape Brandon Gelderman Gelderlands Inc Hank Gelderman Gelderman Landscape Services Brent Giles Clintar Shawn Giovanetti Techo-Bloc Lee Gould Smart About Salt Council Jeff Gregg V Kraus Nurseries Perry Grobe Grobe Nursery & Garden Centre Michael Gucciardi International Landscaping Peter Guinane Oriole Landscaping David Gunn Gunn-Duncan Landscaping Raffy Hanimyan Elite Concrete Ed Hansen Hansen Lawn & Gardens Jeremy Harris BA Region of Peel Violet Harris Rohan Harrison Premier Turf Matt Hart MPH Hardscapes Carl Hastings Moonstruck Lighting Ryan Heath Ryan Heath Professional Landscaping Nathan Helder Gelderman Landscape Services Steve Hernandez Turf Care Products Canada John Higo Illumicare Group Limited Mark Humphries Humphries Landscape Services
LO’s Provincial Board of Directors at the 2018 AGM.
Rebecca Hurrell Bobcat of Toronto and Bobcat of Barrie Kim Iceton Somerville Nurseries Colin Imrie Bobcat of Tri Cities Tom Intven Canadale Nurseries Ron Iserhot Vanden Bussche Irrigation & Equipment Kevin Jack Scotts Canada (Fafard) Heather Jerrard TLC Professional Landscaping Joan Johnston Peter Knippel Nursery Kennedy Johnston Peter Knippel Nursery Tim Kearney CLP Garden Creations of Ottawa Kelly Keates Ginkgo Design Robert Kennaley McLauchlin & Associates Christoph Kessel Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Kimberly Khoury Clintar Allan Kling CLP Urban Garden
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Ben Kobes Kobes Nurseries Ron Koudys BLA, MED, OALA, CSLA, ASLA, RLA, MI, CLD Ron Koudys Landscape Architects Michael LaPorte CHT Clearview Nursery Wendy Ladd Jim Pattison Lease John Ladds Turf Management Systems John Lamberink Aquality Irrigation and Illumination Marty Lamers Oaks Landscape Products Nick Lang Brown’s Concrete Products John Larsen Garden City Groundskeeping Services Chris Le Conte, CIC, CLIA Smart Watering Systems Serge Leclair Kam’s Growers Supply Skai Leja Skai Leja Landscape Design Jennifer Lemcke Weed Man USA - Turf Holdings Jennifer Llewellyn Bsc, MSc Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
Scott Lloyd Cotter Landscaping Rebecca Lord International Society of Arboriculture - Ontario Chapter (ISAO) Michael Luelo Oaks Landscape Products Arvils Lukss Landscapes By Lucin Glen Lumis PhD University of Guelph Cory MacCallum Greenscape Watering Systems Fran MacKenzie Bay King Chrysler Steve Macartney Raintree Irrigation & Outdoor Systems John Mantel AVK Nursery Holdings Laura Marsh Earth Art Landscapes Kevin Marshall CLT Turf Pro Landscaping Ken Martin Ken Martin Landscape Lighting and Design Steve Marysiuk CIT, CIC, CLIA Rain Bird International Chris Mason Sheridan Nurseries Teresa Matamoros Garden Holistics
Pamela McCormick Simply Landscaping & Garden Designs Jim McCracken McCracken Landscape Design Jeff McMann NPD, ISA, CHT, TRAQ Mount Pleasant Group of Cemeteries Burke McNeill Don McQueen Nutri-Lawn - Burlington Irrigation John Mcintosh Enviromasters Lawn Care Norm Mills The Gardenin’ Guy Christine Moffit Christine’s Touch Gardening Jim Monk Markham Property Services Steve Montcalm Gifford Associates Insurance Brokers Conrad Monteiro Moonstruck Lighting John Moons Joseph Morello Premier Landscaping & Design Nick Morgante Unilock Limited Janet Mott Christine’s Touch Gardening Christopher Muller O.J. Muller Landscape Contractor Vince Murphy Caesars Windsor Rob Naraj CHT Sheridan Nurseries Steve Neumann Algonquin College Roy Neves DJ Rain Terry Nicholson Clintar Dave O’Malley, CSP Brooklin Concrete Products Mark Ostrowski Laurel Forest Farms Tyler Owen Thunderbolt Contracting Rebecca Parker NVK Holdings Audrey Partridge Partridge Fine Landscapes Ltd Michael Pascoe NPD, ODH, CLT, MSc Fanshawe College Ed Patchell Ferguson Forest Centre
Brad Paton CLT Shades of Summer Landscaping & Maintenance Warren Patterson Barrie’s Garden Centre Ken Pavely Lawn Life Natural Turf Products Michelle Peeters Baseline Nurseries & Garden Centre John Peets John Peets Landscaping Joe Pereira Landscapes By Lucin Brian Perras B.P. Landscaping & Snow Removal Jamie Perras B.P. Landscaping & Snow Removal Jesse Perrin Green Things Landscaping 2010 Frans Peters Humber Nurseries Erica Pignatelli Best Way Stone Carolyne Planck Unilock Paul Proulx Hunter Industries Bill Putzer Putzer (M) Hornby Nursery Jen Raedts LA Gardens Rob Redden In-Lite Design Garry Reisky Terraform Contracting Jamie Riddell SiteOne Landscape Supply Mike Riehm Envirobond Products Tim Rivard Bobcat of Hamilton Lindsey Ross Living Green Landscaping Robert Roszell Road Equipment Links Gregg Salivan Salivan Landscape Joe Santarosa, Jr Santerra Stonecraft Greg Schaafsma Grand River Natural Stone Haig Seferian OALA, CLSA, FASLA, CLD, LO Seferian Design Group Tony Serwatuk HydroSense Irrigation Design & Consulting Brian Shelfoon Techniseal
Janice Shingler Sheridan Nurseries Gord Shuttleworth Delaware Nursery Blake Sicard UPI Energy Klaas Sikkema Jeff Smith Lynden Lawn Care James Solecki Integra Bespoke Lighting Systems Nick Solty Solty and Sons Fred Somerville Somerville Nurseries Tom Somerville Landscape Ontario Shawn Sowten IPS Jonas Spring Ecoman Karl Stensson Sheridan Nurseries Mary Stewart Living Green Landscaping Laurie-Ann Stuart LA Gardens Ron Swentiski CLD Trillium Associates Natnael Taera Landscape Irrigation Systems Donald Tellier ODH, CLIA, CIC, CID, CLT Deerbrook Landscaping and Nursery Jay Terryberry St Clair College Robert Tester TNT Property Maintenance Marc Thiebaud OGS Grounds Maintenance Specialists Rene Thiebaud OGS Landscape Services Michael Thomas The Investment Guild Jeff Thompson BES, RHAP Native Plant Source Kyle Tobin LawnSavers Plant Health Care Tim Tripp MSc Neudorff North America Rodger Tschanz University of Guelph Steve Tschanz Turf Management Systems Blake Tubby Arbordale Landscaping
Bob Tubby CLP Arbordale Landscaping David Turnbull David Turnbull & Associates Chris Urquhart CLP Green Unlimited Christopher Utter Broadleaf Landscaping & Snow Removal Michael Van Dongen Van Dongen’s Landscaping & Nurseries Bill Van Ryn Jr Peter Vanderley Vanderley Landscaping Art Vanden Enden CHT Sheridan Nurseries Mandy Vandenberg Town of Richmond Hill Audriana VanderWerf Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury Neil Vanderkruk NVK Holdings Mark Verbinnen Verbinnen’s Nursery Jason Vettese Best Way Stone Mike Watson Kelly’s Tree Care Andrea Weddum Royal Botanical Gardens Jeanine West PhytoServ Kerry Whale Allturf Alan White Turf Systems Mark Wilkie Blythedale Sand & Gravel Charlie Wilson Bruce Wilson Landscaping Nick Winkelmolen Winkelmolen Nursery Jarrett Woodard Grand River Brick & Stone Richard Worsley Uxbridge Nurseries Dave Wright Wright Landscape Services Andre Ypma Modern Earthscapes Land Design Fiore Zenone Tumbleweed Landscape Contracting Youbin Zheng University of Guelph Monica van Maris Van Maris Holdings
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2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT Landscape Ontario Audited Financial Statements Balance Sheet Assets Cash Investments Accrued Interest Accounts Receivable Prepaid Expenses Capital Assets Land/Building-Vineland Land/Building-Head Office Total Assets Liabilities and Surplus Accounts Payable Accounts Payable-Sector Groups Accounts Payable-Chapters Accounts Payable-Special Projects Deferred Revenue Horticultural Centre Improvement Fund Horticultural Profession Development Fund Technology Fund Promotion Fund Legacy Fund Net Income Total Liabilities and Surplus
2017 Audited Statements
2018 Audited Statements
346,919 11,911,528 84,986 2,429,415 625,395 0 57,645 572,380 16,028,268
185,626 12,485,703 71,846 2,673,612 691,088 0 57,645 825,285 16,990,804
576,983 2,156 557,073 196,556 3,418,186 4,181,486 1,303,924 507 21,066 5,657,348 112,983
784,516 42,254 591,979 346,496 3,516,390 4,423,455 1,058,275 24,050 11,066 6,043,276 149,048
16,028,268
16,990,804
YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 2018
Fund Allocations
2017 Audited Statements
2018 Audited Statements
1,508,412 (364,976) 160,489 0 82,983 1,386,907
1,386,907 (447,172) 118,540 0 129,048 1,187,323
3,998,290 (136,529) 319,725 0 0 4,181,486
4,181,486 (306,258) 295,322 252,905 0 4,423,455
Technology Fund Opening Balance Expenditures Transfer from Net Income Closing Balance
29,973 (29,466) 30,000 30,507
30,507 (6,457) 10,000 34,050
Promotion Fund Opening Balance Expenditures Transfer from Net Income Closing Balance
31,066 (10,000) 0 21,066
21,066 (10,000) 10,000 21,066
5,239,530 0 417,819 0 0 5,657,348
5,657,348 0 385,928 0 0 6,043,276
Horticultural Profession Development Fund Opening Balance Expenditures Revenues-Funding/Miscellaneous Transfer from (to) other Funds Transfer from Net Income Closing Balance Horticultural Centre Improvement Fund Opening Balance Expenditures Revenues-Funding/Miscellaneous Capitalized Renovation Expenses Transfer from Net Income Closing Balance
Legacy Fund Opening Balance Expenditures Revenues-Funding/Miscellaneous Transfer from (to) other Funds Transfer from Net Income Closing Balance
Income Statement - Departmental Summary Pre-Allocations
Revenue General Membership Publications Congress Education Total Revenue Expenses General Membership Publications Congress Education Total Expenses Net Income (Loss)
2017 Audited Statements
2018 Audited Statements
2018 Revised Budgets
254,887 1,404,801 943,887 2,232,350 217,241 5,053,166
230,284 1,482,786 935,893 2,344,001 211,210 5,204,174
233,200 1,426,500 978,000 2,257,000 197,000 5,091,700
172,164 1,492,000 1,004,000 2,306,900 224,800 5,199,864
172,164 1,492,000 1,004,000 2,306,900 224,800 5,199,864
2,615,440 769,687 253,219 1,186,378 115,460 4,940,183
2,654,872 752,833 244,495 1,271,307 131,620 5,055,126
2,715,142 781,824 231,500 1,234,910 95,000 5,058,376
2,681,500 806,664 238,000 1,278,110 151,125 5,155,399
2,681,500 806,664 238,000 1,278,110 151,125 5,155,399
112,983
58  LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
149,048
33,324
2019 Revised Budgets
44,465
2020 Proposed Budgets
44,465
Landscape Ontario Audited Financial Statements Income Statement - General Revenue Rent Administration Fees Earned Interest Gains/Losses-Investments Information Technology/Web Fees Miscellaneous Total Revenue Administrative Expenses Property Taxes Telephone Hydro Heat Water Maintenance-Yard Maintenance-Building Office Supplies Office Equipment Computer Equipment/Software Information Technology/Web Expenses Postage Courier Audit Legal Fees Advertising Insurance Expense Meeting Expenses Travel Dues & Subscriptions Donations Training (Staff) Miscellaneous Expenses Bank Charges & Interest (Gain) Loss on Foreign Exchange Total Administrative Expenses Compensation Wages Benefits Source Deductions Total Compensation Total Expenses Net Income (Loss) Wage Allocations Overhead Allocations Net Income (Loss) Net of Allocations
Income Statement - Education Revenue Special Projects Trade Courses Certification Total Revenue Expenses Special Projects Trade Courses Certification Promotion Foundation Scholarships Funding Total Expenses Net Income (Loss) Wage Allocations Overhead Allocations Net Income (Loss) Net of Allocations
2017 Audited Statements
2018 Audited Statements
2018 Revised Budgets
YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 2018
2019 Revised Budgets
2020 Proposed Budgets
105,742 83,448 41,978 13,980 8,400 1,339 254,887
94,155 87,622 35,127 5,350 7,650 380 230,284
80,000 90,000 45,000 10,000 7,200 1,000 233,200
40,000 85,000 30,000 10,000 6,664 500 172,164
40,000 85,000 30,000 10,000 6,664 500 172,164
55,412 22,729 43,790 15,303 6,217 79,172 67,855 34,824 10,129 6,943 22,532 11,768 475 21,000 2,151 0 21,561 16,301 72,929 10,152 559 1,320 21,061 84,215 (19,407) 608,992
66,576 21,679 34,623 15,768 4,994 55,301 56,364 30,511 10,805 9,896 22,374 14,291 554 21,000 2,999 350 25,004 19,885 79,106 8,250 508 3,803 16,433 80,873 (22,493) 579,453
70,000 23,000 52,000 17,000 8,000 60,000 70,000 30,000 8,000 7,000 23,000 12,000 1,000 22,000 2,000 1,000 22,000 17,000 65,000 10,000 1,000 2,500 16,000 78,000 (8,000) 609,500
100,000 23,000 50,000 18,000 6,000 40,000 50,000 30,000 10,000 8,000 23,000 13,000 500 22,000 2,000 500 22,000 20,000 65,000 10,000 1,000 2,500 15,000 80,000 (10,000) 601,500
100,000 23,000 50,000 18,000 6,000 40,000 50,000 30,000 10,000 8,000 23,000 13,000 500 22,000 2,000 500 22,000 20,000 65,000 10,000 1,000 2,500 15,000 80,000 (10,000) 601,500
1,747,824 152,821 105,803 2,006,448 2,615,440 (2,360,553) 1,518,500 694,093 (147,960)
1,804,593 163,937 106,889 2,075,420 2,654,872 (2,424,588) 1,547,784 680,223 (196,581)
1,835,642 159,000 111,000 2,105,642 2,715,142 (2,481,942)
1,810,000 160,000 110,000 2,080,000
1,810,000 160,000 110,000 2,080,000
2,681,500 (2,509,336)
2,681,500 (2,509,336)
2017 Audited Statements
2018 Audited Statements
2018 Revised Budgets
2019 Revised Budgets
2020 Proposed Budgets
0 204,178 13,063 217,241
20,960 183,577 6,673 211,210
0 190,000 7,000 197,000
20,000 203,500 1,300 224,800
20,000 203,500 1,300 224,800
8,154 88,355 4,274 2,677 12,000 115,460
25,056 81,664 2,549 10,350 12,000 131,620
0 75,000 4,000 4,000 12,000 95,000
25,600 100,150 1,700 11,675 12,000 151,125
25,600 100,150 1,700 11,675 12,000 151,125
101,781 (176,474) (86,762) (161,454)
79,591 (177,085) (85,028) (182,523)
102,000
73,675
73,675
WWW.HORTTRADES.COM  59
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT Landscape Ontario Audited Financial Statements
YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 2018
Income Statement - Publishing, Landscape Trades Magazine 2017 Audited Statements
2018 Audited Statements
2018 Revised Budgets
2019 Revised Budgets
2020 Proposed Budgets
687,420 2,670 38,123 1,392 1,843 44,000 775,447
687,042 930 35,328 785 1,381 44,000 769,466
720,000 1,500 33,000 500 1,500 44,000 800,500
735,000 1,000 35,000 500 1,500 44,000 817,000
735,000 1,000 35,000 500 1,500 44,000 817,000
Discounts Member Discounts Agency Discounts Total Discounts
85,137 15,407 100,544
87,809 13,707 101,516
75,000 15,000 90,000
75,000 15,000 90,000
75,000 15,000 90,000
Gross Revenue
674,903
667,950
710,500
727,000
727,000
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
60,817 10,852 985 19,642 3,340 10,415 56,735 3,582 910 0 3,444 6,025 520 5,863 183,129
60,281 9,684 251 15,393 3,464 8,096 55,330 3,410 1,472 0 5,082 4,348 1,906 0 168,718
60,000 12,000 1,000 12,000 2,700 10,000 59,000 2,600 800 0 2,000 5,500 250 1,000 168,850
62,000 10,000 1,000 13,000 2,800 10,000 59,000 2,800 800 0 2,000 5,500 250 1,000 170,150
62,000 10,000 1,000 13,000 2,800 10,000 59,000 2,800 800 0 2,000 5,500 250 1,000 170,150
Net Income (Loss)
491,774
499,231
541,650
556,850
556,850
Revenue Advertising Web Display Ads Polybag Classified Ads Subscriptions Member Subscriptions Total Revenue
Income Statement - Publishing, Landscape Ontario Magazine
Revenue Advertising Polybag Classified Ads Web Classsified Ads Enews Ads Subscriptions Member Subscriptions Total Revenue Discounts Member Discounts Agency Discounts Total Discounts
2017 Audited Statements 184,753 20,781 1,780 240 12,000 175 44,000 263,728
2018 Audited Statements 168,719 15,494 495 0 24,650 77 44,000 253,435
2018 Revised Budgets
2019 Revised Budgets
190,000 15,000 500 0 10,000 0 44,000 259,500
190,000 15,000 500 0 17,000 0 44,000 266,500
2020 Proposed Budgets 190,000 15,000 500 0 17,000 0 44,000 266,500
26,648 2,920 29,568
25,484 1,651 27,135
26,000 1,000 27,000
26,000 1,500 27,500
26,000 1,500 27,500
Gross Revenue
234,160
226,300
232,500
239,000
239,000
Expenses Printing Editorial Travel Mail Preparations Poly Bag Costs Postage Miscellaneous Bad Debts Total Expenses
24,747 2,744 2,750 6,554 18,344 20 0 55,158
Net Income (Loss)
179,002
60  LANDSCAPE ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2018
28,333 3,137 3,025 6,050 18,482 1,376 0 60,404 165,896
22,000 1,500 2,600 4,500 17,300 250 500 48,650 183,850
25,000 2,000 2,600 5,000 17,500 250 500 52,850 186,150
25,000 2,000 2,600 5,000 17,500 250 500 52,850 186,150
Landscape Ontario Audited Financial Statements
YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 2018
Income Statement - Publishing, Special Projects
Revenue Expenses Net Income (Loss)
2017 Audited Statements 34,824 14,931 19,893
2018 Audited Statements 41,644 15,372 26,272
2017 Audited Statements 690,669 (467,050) (130,142) 93,476
2018 Audited Statements 691,399 (466,730) (127,542) 97,127
2018 Revised Budgets 35,000 14,000 21,000
2019 Revised Budgets 38,000 15,000 23,000
2020 Proposed Budgets 38,000 15,000 23,000
Summary - Publishing
Net Income (Loss) Publishing Department Wage Allocations Overhead Allocations Net Income (Loss) Net of Allocations
Income Statement - Membership Services
Revenue Membership Dues Awards of Excellence Merchandise Referral Fees Total Revenue General Expenses CNLA Membership Dues Member Subscriptions Awards of Excellence Membership Plaques Annual Report Merchandise Membership Booth Promotion-Members Promotion-Canada Blooms Promotion-GFL/Branding Total Expenses Chapters and Sector Groups Durham Chapter Georgian Lakelands Chapter Golden Horseshoe Chapter London Chapter Group Ottawa Chapter Toronto Chapter Upper Canada Chapter Waterloo Chapter Windsor Chapter Designers Group Garden Centre Group Grounds Maintenance Group Growers Group Interiorscape Group Irrigation Group Landscape Contractors Group Landscape Lighting Group Snow & Ice Group Turf Management (Lawn Care) Group Total Chapter and Sector Groups Expenses Total Expenses Net Income (Loss) Wage Allocations Overhead Allocations Net Income (Loss) Net of Allocations
2017 Audited Statements
2018 Audited Statements
2018 Revised Budgets
2019 Revised Budgets
2020 Proposed Budgets
1,248,626 72,571 2,128 81,475 1,404,801
1,303,287 80,275 2,200 97,024 1,482,786
1,300,000 74,000 2,500 50,000 1,426,500
1,350,000 80,000 2,000 60,000 1,492,000
1,350,000 80,000 2,000 60,000 1,492,000
361,354 88,000 100,196 9,662 2,156 2,222 12,497 38,918 35,870 30,047 680,922
383,968 88,000 100,877 165 3,161 0 14,147 32,471 45,370 0 668,159
399,500 88,000 100,000 11,000 2,500 2,500 12,000 38,000 20,000 1,000 674,500
410,000 88,000 100,000 0 3,000 2,500 15,000 40,000 40,000 0 698,500
410,000 88,000 100,000 0 3,000 2,500 15,000 40,000 40,000 0 698,500
9,400 9,508 9,756 8,584 9,400 11,040 5,000 9,466 5,120 1,031 0 1,226 2,030 0 367 1,204 1,807 3,665 160 88,765
9,232 9,588 9,786 8,464 9,406 11,044 5,120 9,484 5,200 995 94 2,809 2,876 0 891 (562) 543 (1,302) 1,006 84,674
9,232 9,588 9,786 8,464 9,406 11,044 5,120 9,484 5,200 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 107,324
9,232 9,700 9,802 8,752 9,404 11,054 5,040 9,500 5,680 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 108,164
9,232 9,700 9,802 8,752 9,404 11,054 5,040 9,500 5,680 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 108,164
769,687 635,114 (441,082) (173,523) 20,508
752,833 729,953 (473,192) (170,056) 86,705
781,824 644,676
806,664 685,336
806,664 685,336
WWW.HORTTRADES.COM  61
2018 LO ANNUAL REPORT Landscape Ontario Audited Financial Statements
YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 2018
Income Statement - Tradeshows, Congress
Revenue Exhibit Space Exhibit Space-Partners Registration Sponsorship Miscellaneous Total Revenue Discounts Member Discounts Member Discounts-Partners Total Discounts
2017 Audited Statements 2,209,674 57,638 118,122 52,116 1,788 2,439,338
2018 Audited Statements 2,312,173 49,275 125,783 69,188 5,675 2,562,093
2018 Revised Budgets
2019 Revised Budgets
2020 Proposed Budgets
2,230,000 55,000 135,000 50,000 2,000 2,472,000
2,296,900 50,000 120,000 60,000 0 2,526,900
2,296,900 50,000 120,000 60,000 0 2,526,900
202,288 4,700 206,988
214,093 4,000 218,093
210,000 5,000 215,000
215,000 5,000 220,000
215,000 5,000 220,000
Gross Revenue
2,232,350
2,344,001
2,257,000
2,306,900
2,306,900
Expenses Exhibit Hall Security Show Services Feature Area Garden Subsidy Speakers Conferences-Food and Beverage Registration Services Audio Visual Equipment Receptions Printing Promotion Advertising Photography Flowers Move In/Move Out Travel Parking Police Postage Janitorial Software Labour Commissions-Partners Miscellaneous Total Expenses
437,963 24,625 119,824 3,000 17,396 34,672 33,742 41,907 26,730 49,629 19,491 39,894 26,089 2,625 1,256 113,754 62,074 14,930 2,121 17,181 67,005 11,083 2,250 11,200 5,938 1,186,378
453,988 27,702 110,082 6,800 22,918 48,018 40,277 44,094 27,578 62,015 18,418 27,908 32,444 2,675 781 114,476 73,395 15,675 2,121 16,586 92,330 11,083 1,500 9,990 8,454 1,271,307
451,200 26,000 118,760 3,000 16,500 50,000 35,350 42,100 27,800 55,000 22,300 26,000 36,900 3,000 1,200 117,000 60,000 15,500 2,300 19,500 70,000 12,000 5,000 13,500 5,000 1,234,910
467,000 28,000 118,560 4,000 24,000 35,000 29,450 46,300 28,400 55,000 22,300 26,000 36,900 3,000 1,200 117,000 65,000 15,900 2,300 19,500 98,000 12,000 5,000 12,300 6,000 1,278,110
467,000 28,000 118,560 4,000 24,000 35,000 29,450 46,300 28,400 55,000 22,300 26,000 36,900 3,000 1,200 117,000 65,000 15,900 2,300 19,500 98,000 12,000 5,000 12,300 6,000 1,278,110
Net Income (Loss) Wage Allocations Overhead Allocations Net Income (Loss) Net of Allocations
1,045,973 (433,895) (303,666) 308,412
1,072,694 (430,777) (297,598) 344,319
1,022,090
1,028,790
1,028,790
Investments Year End Aug 31/17 Year End Aug 31/18 Bonds/GIC’s recorded at cost Res Transalta Utilities 649,299 145,072 Res Fairfax Financial 0 400,697 Province of Quebec 450,000 450,000 Royal Bank GIC (Waterloo Chapter) 60,000 60,000 Bank of Montreal 399,999 399,999 Cash Position 3,684 125 Total Bonds/GIC’s 1,562,982 1,455,893 Mutual Funds/Equities recorded at market value Nexus/RBCPortfolio 4,895,565 5,225,201 TD Wealth Portfolio 5,078,909 5,420,507 RBC Dominion Securities 374,072 384,102 Totals Mutual Funds/Equities 10,348,546 11,029,811 Total Investments 11,911,528 12,485,703
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