LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
HortTrades.com • June 2020
49-YEAR Kathy Thomas of Burlington’s Green Thumb Landscaping sustains her company, customers and employees PM 40013519
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LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
June, 2020 • Volume 38 - No. 06 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.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Will this roller coaster ride ever end?
Features 4 Profile: Green Thumb Landscaping
Departments 8 Association News 15 New Members 16 Professional News 19 Columns 23 Classifieds/Advertisers
Editor Robert Ellidge rellidge@landscapeontario.com, 647-722-5645 Multimedia designer/IT coordinator Mike Wasilewski mikew@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5343 Contributor Kim Burton kburton@landscapeontario.com, 647-723 5447 Account manager 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 Scott Barber, Darryl Bond, Amy Buchanan, Tony DiGiovanni CHT, Cassandra Garrard, Meghan Greaves, Sally Harvey CLT CLM CAE, Keri MacIvor, Heather MacRae, Kathy McLean, Joe Salemi, Ian Service, Myscha Stafford, Tom Somerville, David Turnbull, Lissa Schoot Uiterkamp, Martha Walsh
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Department Landscape Ontario 7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 Canada Phone: 905-875-1805 ISSN 1928-9553 Publications Mail Agreement No. PM40013519
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this last? We need to prepare for the next crisis. There will surely be some kind of a recession. There are millions of people out of work, but the government is giving them money. But for how long? The unprecedented level of financial support by our government will cost us in the long run. It may even slow the sputtering economy as they raise taxes to pay for the stimulus. These unknowns are why I am on budget number six for the year. We cancelled major equipment purchases in early spring due to the shutdowns, but then two months later, we re-ordered most of that equipment because we need it to keep up with the current workload. We cancelled truck purchases, only to then rent several from a local supplier. (They are all giving great deals, by the way). My concern now is still how, or if, this roller coaster ride will ever end. In the last five years, as I learned more about the finances of our business, I have worked to recession-proof the company by having equipment leases come due every year, so that if I need to drop a crew, I can give the equipment back. I have worked on paying off debt and acquiring short-term debt, not long-term, so that if the bottom falls out, we can roll with it. Whether you are a small or a large company, I challenge you to live within your means and make wise, budgetdriven decisions as we weather this storm together. Good luck and don’t let your guard down.
hope everyone is as busy as I am! As I look back over the last three months, I see a crazy roller coaster ride with many ups and downs. Downs being the huge threats to our health and the economy, and the ups being the successful lobbying by our unified task force and members, and finally getting back to work. Then another down: my vice-president of operations left the company. When we are in crisis mode, what would normally be a crisis is nothing but another blip. We all pulled together and managed to work through all of the protocols and safety procedures to get back to work safely. Now we are pulling together to cover off the many tasks and responsibilities that the number two in our company has left behind. He did an amazing job setting everything up for success. We got to say goodbye to him with a physical-distanced, food truck social in our parking lot. As things keep changing, I continue to revise our budgets for this year. Having a great team with me, along for the ride, and great technology partners, like LMN, we have been able to roll with the punches and keep moving forward. As a business, our revenue is up more than 15 per cent over last year, but I wonder how long that will last. The pent-up demand of a society that has been shut indoors, saving money, is exploding. Three weeks ago, I lamented that on one day we only got two leads. Now, we are back to our normal of 25. How long will
Dave Wright LO President davew@wrightlandscape.ca
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 2020, 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
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GREEN THUMB L A N D S C A P I N G Burlington, Ont. By Kelli M. Maddocks
“Y
ou can’t fight and move forward.” These are the wise words of Kathy Thomas, owner and president of Green Thumb Landscaping in Burlington, Ont. Kathy’s story of moving forward begins back in 1971, when she and husband John launched their landscape business. Working through long and tiring days, raising a family with three children, and taking on the growing world of the landscape profession, Kathy and John built Green Thumb Landscaping into a successful and thriving business. Little did anyone know at the time, their process of moving forward would also become one of the biggest challenges that Kathy, her family, and the business all would face. In 1993, suddenly and without warning, John died of a heart attack while playing hockey. Kathy became a widow, single mother, and sole business owner in the blink of an eye. Everything changed. Beyond her own terrible grief, Kathy had to address the “new normal” of the business. “It was such a difficult time,” Kathy says. “While I was navigating through grief, taking care of my family, and figuring out the next steps in the business, I was also having to deal with a senior employee who wanted to take control of the business.”
While co-workers and friends wanted Kathy to fight, she decided to part ways, keep her business as a sole owner, and continue on. “I told them, you can’t fight and move forward at the same time.” A family business all around And move forward she did. She invited sonin-law Todd Rainey to join the company initially as operations manager. He is now a partner in the business. “Todd was just amazing,” Kathy says. “He had no landscaping experience, but he’s the type of person who can figure things out fairly quickly, and his partnership has become essential to both our family and our company.” Family is a word that Kathy uses quite often: “Family is everything, and that sentiment follows through to our entire team and all of our clients. We have staff that have been with us for over 27 years, but they are so much more than staff, they are family.” Kathy’s youngest daughter, Keri Wilby, has also joined the Green Thumb leadership team. After a short hiatus spent starting a family, she’s now back in the business development and client care role. Kathy states, “Even as a leadership team, we are whollyengaged with staff and our clients. On any given day you’ll find one of us checking on the properties, and making sure staff have everything they need to ensure a positive and productive day.” Continued >
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Crew staging has changed, since members are now following trucks in their own cars to respect distancing protocols.
AN EXTENDED INDUSTRY FAMILY
One particular key business element for Green Thumb is its staff. For example, the team strives to have workdays wrapped up by 4 p.m. “Work/life balance is crucial to the health of our staff,” says Kathy. “Anything we can do to give them time to enjoy a healthy life and family balance is the least we can do for all of their hard work and incredible loyalty.”
A 25-year member of Landscape Ontario, Kathy is eager to give the association the recognition it deserves: “Landscape Ontario has been instrumental in the evolution of the landscape profession.” Kathy gives a special nod to Tony DiGiovanni, whom she refers to as the ‘patriarch’ of the organization. “Tony has been such a wonderful source of support, and has been a mentor to myself and the company. I joined Landscape Ontario one year after John passed, and Tony and his team were instrumental in helping me through those challenging times.” Landscape Ontario is like another family to Kathy. Its mentorship, peer support, training, and education are key to most successful landscaping firms, and are resources Kathy still utilizes today. “When I first joined the organization, I was very involved, and after a while I knew it was time to move on, pass the torch, enjoy simply being a member, while continuing to enjoy all the benefits membership offers,” she says. “It really has been exciting to watch the organization develop and strengthen, right alongside our business. There is so much that one can take advantage of, from the culture and profession, to the government grants and programs. These days, if you’re in the landscape business you should absolutely be part of Landscape Ontario. Not only for everything I’ve already mentioned but there is also a certain credibility that comes with being a member.”
EDUCATING AND EVOLVING
Another key business strategy for Green Thumb is continual education. “We have weekly meetings with the entire team,” explains Kathy. “We discuss everything from news and technologies within the profession, to sharing best practices, to discussing any challenges within the group. We empower our employees to be leaders throughout their day, so strong communication with them is essential.” “The landscape profession has evolved and developed throughout the years, and that’s how employees should be treated. They are professionals, not just labour. We encourage them to have a career with us, not just a job. There is so much to learn and appreciate in this profession, so we do what we can to ensure our employees know more than just the bare essentials, they know the science behind what they do. They know what to plant, when and where to plant it, and how to maintain it, all while ensuring they deliver on the needs of our customers. We deliver nothing but the best from our products and service.”
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Kathy Thomas and her partner, son-in-law Todd Rainey, guide the company to its success. Read more about their journey in an earlier article at gfl.me/h82W.
INVESTING IN SOCIAL MEDIA In just the past few years, Green Thumb Landscaping has again moved forward and hired a marketing company to help with its social media content and strategy. “Having a strong marketing plan, with a focus on customized SEO metrics has led to significant growth and lead generation for the company,” Kathy explains. “The cost was a little startling when we first looked at taking this step, however, the return on investment has paid back in dividends. Hiring professionals to take on such a large endeavour takes a lot of trust, a lot of guts, and a lot of patience, but with technology, social practices, and communication all changing so rapidly, it’s worth it. After just a few short years, we’ve actually been able to scale back our marketing budget.” Kathy and team are quite proud that Green Thumb Landscaping has been recognized by her peers as a “Partner of Choice” on projects. “We’re thrilled that landscape design-build professionals are looking to refer Green Thumb to their clients on completion of their projects, and to help develop follow-up maintenance programs.” This professional peer recognition speaks volumes about Green Thumb Landscaping and its team of talented professionals.
PASSION SPAWNS ANOTHER BUSINESS
In 2003, Kathy set out to pursue a second, yet connected landscape passion. Bronze Frog Gallery, located in downtown Oakville, Ont., opened its doors. The business specializes in landscape sculptures, furniture, water features, and selected art pieces. “I was working like crazy, and loved every moment,” explains Kathy, “but I’m a bit of a ‘human being junkie.’ I love to learn about people and their stories. One of my favourite parts of having the gallery was spending time with my customers, hearing their stories, and helping them find, and fall in love with a landscape art piece that speaks to them.” When it came time to renew the lease in 2013, with business in Oakville’s downtown core struggling, Kathy moved forward once again and closed Bronze Frog Gallery. “It was time to move on,” she says. In 1997, Green Thumb Landscaping’s story of adversity was profiled in Landscape Ontario’s magazine.
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STILL MOVING AFTER NEARLY 50 YEARS
Moving forward in business and very much so in life, has been a strong value for Kathy Thomas. “Nothing stays the same for very long, I’ve learned that lesson,” she says. “You have to be proactive, always have your ear to the ground, and be as ready as you can be for whatever lesson comes your way next.” Green Thumb Landscaping has enjoyed 49 years of moving forward, becoming a successful business, growing and thriving in a time when change in the industry is happening so fast. Kathy may not focus on her ability to fight, but she truly is one of the strongest “fighters” the landscape profession, her peers, staff, and family could ever have in their corner.
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PROFESSIONAL NEWS
Peer to Peer Network thanks the Covid-19 Task Force
to protect and enhance our professional reputations with the public, and various levels of government — we extend our sincere thank you. You have led us through this crisis, to the point where we are now able to continue our livelihood. As members, in an effort to demonstrate our appreciation, we will continue to commit to the professionalism exemplified by your efforts and to continue to represent Landscape Ontario as proud and professional green industry members. We will endeavour to lead our own teams and supply them with the knowledge, commitment and support you have given us. You have taught us how to step up when many thought we could not. You gave us direction, courage and bolstered our spirits. You have proven to us that as a profession we have the support and intuitive leadership that will keep us going forward and viable in the future. There is no better way to honour what you have done than for us to go forward as professionals and represent our association to the level that you have demonstrated in this most complex time.
Editor’s note: The following letter was written collectively by members of the Landscape Ontario Peer to Peer Network and addressed to members of the COVID-19 Task Force and association staff. As exceptionally proud Landscape Ontario and ‘Peer to Peer’ members, we would like to express our sincere thanks for the outstanding leadership, support and commitment you have demonstrated on our behalf, as we navigate the challenges of the COVID19 pandemic. You have provided us with the most up-to-date information through the Resource Hub, frequent and timely updates, webinars, commentaries and countless other things. It is through these efforts that you have helped us all remain positive and hopeful. To the many people: Tony DiGiovanni and the leadership team, the volunteer-led COVID-19 Task Force, all of the LO staff, our president Dave Wright, industry leaders and so many others who have worked endlessly and tirelessly on our behalf,
Respectfully submitted, Landscape Ontario Peer to Peer members
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Salemi joins LO family “I have always called my clients my community, and I call my team my family,” said Joe Salemi, LO’s new Deputy Executive Director. He is already well known among landscape professionals, having served for 10 years with the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association, and eight years in a leadership role with Dynascape Software. He completed a communications and business degree at Brock University and earned a post graduate diploma in Human Resources Management at Mohawk Joe Salemi College. Salemi and his wife Dawn are the parents of three-year-old Matthew. Executive Director Tony DiGiovanni said, “I love how Joe interacts with customers. His integrity, trustworthiness and values are right for LO.” Salemi joined LO during the coronavirus crisis, and firmly believes LO members’ willingness to help others at a moment’s notice is what sets them apart. Salemi’s career includes experience working with many other associations across North America, and he says he did not see that volunteer spirit as strong in most other groups. “Other associations could not mobilize to be relevant as quickly as LO did,” he said. He goes on to credit LO’s financial stability as a success factor, as he watched other associations worried about having to close. “Small business is the cornerstone of our economy. Whenever we focus on business development, it has to be small business; I love helping businesses work toward success. I worked with hundreds of small businesses at Dynascape, and that is where I found my passion. Small business is ultimately important,” he adds. On following Tony DiGiovanni’s leadership, Salemi said, “Nobody on the planet can walk in Tony’s shoes. I have my own style and have to follow my own path. Tony has built a legacy; he set LO up for success. Now it’s our responsibility to continue.” Salemi is eager to connect with LO members, noting that Ontario Premier, Doug Ford put his cell number on Twitter, indicating willingness to talk to anybody, any time. “I respected that. Dynascape is known for accessibility, and I want to carry that on at LO.” Salemi invites members to email him any time at jsalemi@landscapeontario.com, or call his cell at 905-220-4106.
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Adapting to the new reality:
A guide to upcoming association-run meetings, events and programs The coronavirus outbreak of 2020 forced many events to be postponed, cancelled, or reinvented. Limits on non-essential travel, combined with a majority of people working from home, kids not in schools, and public health officials restricting the number of people that can gather in a group, have all made a major impact on the way we learn, stay connected, and do business. Below is a guide to the current status of many upcoming Landscape Ontario and partner events. Please continue to visit HortTrades.com and read LO’s weekly e-news for the latest updates, as the situation and details will likely change.
Chapter and Sector Group meetings Landscape Ontario’s nine regional chapters usually take a break during the hectic summer season, typically holding monthly chapter meetings from around September through to May. This spring, some chapters held meetings virtually via video conference. The Toronto and Georgian Lakelands Chapters also held “Shop Talk” events online, with Ottawa planning one as well. LO’s Membership and Chapter Coordinator Myscha Stafford expects most chapters will continue to meet online this fall in a webinar-style format that will usher in an exciting, new era for chapter communications and networking. Some LO sector groups have also met via video conference this spring in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Groups will continue to meet virtually throughout the rest of 2020. In addition, specific Facebook networking pages have been created for the Garden Centre, Grower and Irrigation sector group members to share information, ideas and to connect with one another.
Sector Group events The LO Growers Sector Group’s Industry Auction, typically held in summer, has been postponed until 2021. An integral part of the event sees the submission, judging and announcement of winners in the LO Growers Awards of Excellence program.
Plans are being made to hold the grower awards in some other format. Details will be made available at IndustryAuction.ca. The Growers Sector Group has cancelled plans for a summer tour this year. The Growers Fall Dinner Meeting on Nov. 24 will go ahead. Plans are being made to hold the usual dinner event, which could change to an online town hall format if necessary. The format decision should be made sometime in September. The Growers Short Course is scheduled for Feb. 3, 2021. The annual Contractor Lecture has been cancelled. Many chapters are in the process of organizing virtual “Shop Talk” events that will bring a similar format with a local relevance.
Snowposium The annual gathering of snow and ice professionals typically held at the LO site in Milton, Ont., will become a virtual event this year. Scheduled forJuly 28, organizers are looking to provide a great lineup of educational sessions, and a virtual trade show featuring many products and demos. Details will be released at Snowposium.ca.
Green Streets Challenge Last year saw a record number of communities take up the Green Streets Challenge. Held across the province, the hugely-popular event had LO members lay down sod to create temporary parks on prominent streets. Together with Come Alive Outside, the events celebrate the importance of outdoor unstructured play. With heavy hearts and public safety in mind, organizers have postponed the Green Streets Challenge this year. However, outdoor play is more important than ever. A summer passport program full of outdoor activities that call be completed while physical distancing has been created for kids. Download a copy at ComeAliveOutside.com/passports. Plans are also underway to hold the Come Alive Outside Design Challenge in a virtual format this fall.
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Awards of Excellence Program and Ceremony Landscape Ontario’s annual awards competition recognizes the top professionals and projects in the province via three separate programs: construction, maintenance and design; growers; and garden centres. All three programs, including the nomination and recognition of individual awards, will still go ahead this year. Online entries can be submitted online at LOawards.com starting July 1 for the construction, maintenance and design program. Entries will be judged this fall and several ideas are currently being explored for the annual awards ceremony in January if it can not be held due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Scholarship Program Students enrolled in secondary and postsecondary scholarship programs now have until July 31 to apply for scholarships awarded by the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation, which includes the Cullen Family Scholarship Program. Details on the many scholarships available can be found at OHTF.ca. Scholarship recipients are recognized each year in the November issue of Landscape Ontario magazine, and at the LO Awards of Excellence ceremony in January.
Professional Development Seminar Series Landscape Ontario’s popular professional development series that offers over 120 seminars from November to April was abruptly cut short in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some titles were held, and in the weeks that followed, organizers were able to offer an association first — a selection of online professional development webinars led by the same well-known and knowledgeable instructors from the series. LO’s professional development offerings are typically released mid-Oct each year. Currently, planning is underway on the 2021 schedule, which will continue to offer essential hands-on learning and in-class opportunities to help support and advance the skills development of participants.
LANDSCAPE ONTARIO Building upon this spring’s successful Pro Dev webinars, participants can expect to see more offerings as part of next season’s program.
Congress 2021 Landscape Ontario’s trade show and events team has been busy forging ahead with plans for Congress 2021 — the largest gathering of green industry professionals in Canada. Two versions of Congress are being planned: the face-to-face version the profession is accustomed to, and a virtual trade show and conference in the event that public health officials still recommend against large gatherings. Organizers are confident that whatever form Congress takes for 2021, it will provide a level of networking, education, sharing, and buying on a digital level that has not yet been experienced by the profession. The decision on whether Congress 2021 is held virtually or face-to-face will be made sometime in September. For the latest news on all association activities and events, visit HortTrades.com.
Awards of Excellence program continues for 2020 For over four decades, the Landscape Ontario Awards of Excellence program has celebrated the most outstanding craftsmanship, design and innovation the green profession has to offer. This year will be no different. Entries for the Garden Centre, Construction, Maintenance and Design programs open July 1. Last year saw a record-breaking number of entries, and organizers are hoping to break the record again in 2020. All entries are submitted online via LOawards.com, where you will find detailed information about the
categories and guidelines, eligibility requirements and submission details. The program is open exclusively to members of Landscape Ontario. Details about the Awards of Excellence ceremony will be announced at a later date. Organizers are continuing to plan for a face-to-face ceremony in conjunction with Congress, but are also exploring a number of virtual options… the show must go on! Questions about the awards program or the entry process can be directed to Myscha Stafford, LO Membership Coordinator, at 1-800-265-5656, ext. 3233, or awards@landscapeontario.com.
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In memoriam — Leo Bezaire Leo Bezaire passed away peacefully on May 18, 2020 at the age of 87. Working with many members of the family, Leo was owner and operator of Malden Tree Farms in Windsor, Ont. Leo was an accomplished landscape designer and later in his Leo Bezaire career, turned his attention to propagating and growing. Leo was a founding member of the Windsor Chapter of Landscape Ontario, and served on the association’s Provincial Board of Directors from 1976-1978. Leo was awarded the Past President’s Award in 1981 for his “outstanding long-term contributions to Landscape Ontario.” Beloved husband of the late Jeannette (nee Walker), dear father of Paul and Marlene Bezaire, Joanne and Guy Renaud of Ottawa, and Gerry and Patti Bezaire. Heaven’s latest angel was a loving grandfather and great-grandfather to many adoring children. Leo suffered from a brain abscess at age 59, leaving him impaired on the right side. He fought through months of difficult therapy, eventually contributing again to the family business. Despite his impairment, he lived independently, drove his own car, and even at age 87, often cooked meals for the family and took pride in planting his begonia baskets every year. While his grandchildren were the light of his life, his new passion was for his greatgrandchildren. He took great joy in rallying the family to attend Mass and dinner every year in remembrance of Jeannette’s passing. A private family interment took place at Assumption Cemetery. A Memorial Mass and gathering will take place at a later date. Special thanks to the WRH Ouellette Campus Emergency Department. Donations to Windsor & Essex County Cancer Centre Foundation, Hospice of Windsor & Essex County or a charity of choice would be appreciated by the family.
Scholarship application deadline extended to July 31 The Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation has announced the application deadline for the 2020 scholarship and bursary program has been extended to July 31. The extension comes after the closure of schools and many non-essential businesses due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. Students and apprentices enrolled in landscape and horticulture programs across the province can apply for a portion of the over $50,000 of financial assistance available via a wide range of scholarships. These include a number of regional scholarships offered through various Landscape Ontario chapters (Waterloo, Ottawa and Upper Canada), and sectorspecific scholarships to students pursuing career paths, such as property maintenance, native plants and lawn care. Other scholarships have been created in memory or recognition of industry leaders and pioneers who helped make the profession what it is today.
Cullen Family Scholarship Program Under the Foundation umbrella, the Cullen Family Scholarship Program offers an additional $30,000 to students pursuing careers in landscaping and horticulture. Individual scholarships of $2,000 are available to students in every postsecondary institution across the province that has a landscape or horticulture program. The deadline to apply for these scholarships is also July 31, 2020.
How to apply Most scholarships require the student to submit an essay, explaining why they should be considered for a specific scholarship, as well as a transcript and sometimes a nomination from their educator. Established in 1979, one of the primary goals of the Foundation is to nurture and advance the horticultural industry through the funding of industry-related scholarships. Scholarships are available only to those who reside in Ontario and scholarships support students at all levels of education: college, university, post-graduate and apprentices. For a full list of available scholarships, criteria, and an application form, visit HortTrades.com/scholarships. For information on supporting the Foundation, visit OHTF.ca.
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Association webinars a huge success From March 26 to May 14, Landscape Ontario hosted a record number of webinars aimed at informing members of the landscape and horticulture profession of the latest information on the novel coronavirus pandemic. The webinars also provided a networking and informationsharing forum for members to connect and ask questions online. The 24 free webinars featured a number of well-known business coaches, a registered psychotherapist, human resource and safety experts, marketing specialists, and Landscape Ontario member business owners. Each Tuesday, members of the LO COVID-19 Task Force held a Town Hall meeting to provide updates and get feedback from business owners and employees. Having never hosted any webinars previously, Landscape Ontario staff quickly sprang into action, researching and testing the technology, and sourcing and working with presenters. “Our COVID-19 Task Force recognized early on the need for us, as an association, to filter and clarify the sometimes conflicting and confusing information that was coming in,” says Tony DiGiovanni, LO executive director. “The dedicated Task Force members meet daily via video conference to interpret the latest government assistance programs and advice issued by public health officials, in order to then communicate those developments to members and how it relates to them, their business and families. I am extremely proud of each and every member of our team.” Attendance for the online info sessions was impressive. In total, over 4,000 people registered and attended the webinars, with online replays posted to YouTube earning an additional 4,000 views. One LO member commented: “I have listened to the Town Hall series and found them very informative. Topics were relevant and well-presented. Thank you to your team who took time out of their busy schedule to participate. We are in this together!” Another said:”Thanks for all of the effort putting these on they are greatly appreciated!” Due to the success, LO plans to hold regular Town Hall-style webinars as a means of effective communication even in the postcovid era.
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Ottawa Chapter tulip donation brightens Barrhaven Legion By Martha Walsh LO Ottawa Chapter Coordinator The beauty of Mother Nature is that she always gives us hope. Hope that when we plant, we will reap the rewards in many ways: beautiful blooms, fruit, vegetables, and renewal. In the fall of 2019, Landscape Ontario Ottawa Chapter purchased bulbs from the Canadian Tulip Festival to participate in the 2020 Liberation tulip planting. The special edition tulip celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Liberation of Holland. The Ottawa Chapter board donated many of the bulbs to members of the chapter, and to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 641, located in Barrhaven, Ont. In November 2019, over 500 Liberation 75 bulbs were planted in two concrete planters at the Legion, in the hope that spring 2020 would see Legion members enjoy the display and celebrate the historic anniversary. Unfortunately, prior to the arrival of spring, all events, including those at the Legion, and the Canadian Tulip Festival, were cancelled due to public health concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic. The Canadian Tulip Festival moved all events online so the public could participate safely. Despite the pandemic, Mother Nature continued her renewal process at RCL Branch. The bulbs planted there have marked the start of spring and are now blooming. Their blooms are a sign that even though the world has changed, and we are getting settled into a “new normal”; spring will continue to happen. Spring will provide beautiful blossoms and hope, this year, and for years to come.
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Letters to the Editor An employee’s perspective This time is not easy. It is not “comfortable.” The people and businesses we were preCOVID…are gone. “Drop-by anytime after 5 p.m.” Nope. Shaking hands at the first meeting. Nope. Morning, tailgate team meeting. Nope. Orientation and training — VERY different from what it was. Conventions, Canada Blooms, workshops: yes, but with restrictions or online only. “Business as usual” is going to be anything but “usual’ moving forward. We are all going to be facing new challenges we can’t even predict at this early stage. Policies and procedures have evolved and will continue to (weekly, if not daily) moving forward. WE have been given the green light to proceed to deliver our services. Our profession has been recognized as ESSENTIAL! As individuals and businesses, we are in a volatile time of improvement, reflection, evaluation and evolution. NONE OF US have to improve, reflect, evaluate or evolve ALONE. With the guidance of LO’s Peer-to-Peer Network and the support of Landscape
Ontario, we have the opportunity to move forward together, stronger and more effective than ever before. The dedication, time and effort put forth from Jacki Hart, Tony DiGiovanni, Sally Harvey, Joe Salemi, Lindsey Ross and the COVID Task Force have been nothing less than extraordinary. Engaged members have been brought together, kept informed, guided, encouraged and empowered to continue to work “as usual as possible,” while supporting and learning from each other. Businesses will change. People will change. Positions, workflow and tasks will be rearranged and some people will lose their job. But they will not lose hope, or support from Landscape Ontario. Going forward, working through this pandemic and after, I am convinced this industry has the right people at the helm within Landscape Ontario and we are beyond lucky to have them. When we return to work “as usual,” I ask that managers and people of seniority keep in mind how challenging the start of this season has been — not JUST for owners, but for employees as well. We are anxious to get back to work, but worried about job security. We wonder how we will be able to look after our families and pay our bills, and more than anything, WE want to be deemed “essential.” We want to know that the work we do makes a difference. That what we do
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MATTERS and that our efforts and sacrifices are noticed. We want to feel and know that WE are “essential.” During these next few months, employees may cry, get emotional, and overreact to situations. Sometimes we might not even show up. We could be dealing with not being able to visit family members in hospital, living at home with someone who works in a hospital, working reduced hours and receiving reduced wages, or have been exposed to someone who “might” be COVID19 positive (and have to stay at home in quarantine). We as employees want to work. We want to contribute. We want to make a difference and we need to know that we are “essential.” Stay strong friends, we are all in this together. Heather Jerrard, Proud member of LO’s Peer to Peer Network TLC Professional Landscaping London, Ont.
Thanks to the LO COVID-19 Task Force Hi Tony, Thank you very much to you and the LO COVID-19 Task Force. As an owner of a small garden maintenance business, your guidance was absolutely essential for me during the time that we were not permitted to work. It was a confusing and unstable period, but having an organization like Landscape Ontario advocating for us as an industry and reaching out to its members with the weekly webinars really helped. My crew and I have been working for the past week, and although it is a constant challenge to adapt to the new health and safety protocols, we are conscientiously following all compliance guidelines and are aware of how important these procedures are to keep ourselves, our clients and the public safe. Once again, my most sincere thanks to you and the whole LO team. Moving forward, I hope we can all salvage some joy out of our season!
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Sincerely, Karen Henderson, Owner Hillholm Gardening Toronto, Ont.
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LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
NEW MEMBERS DURHAM Bobcaygeon Boys Dylan Woods 58 Charlore Park Dr, Omemee, ON K0L 2W0 Tel: 416-276-9529 Membership Type: Member Polito Properties Anthony Polito 20 Russell St E, Lindsay, ON K9V 1Z8 Membership Type: Chapter Associate
GEORGIAN LAKELANDS Carnell Excavating James Carnell 1806 20th Sideroad, Innisfil, ON L9S 4J7 Tel: 705-730-3344 Membership Type: Member Clayton Construction Andy Clayton 1075 Graham’s Lane, Algonquin Highlands, ON K0M 1J2 Tel: 647-885-4896 Membership Type: Chapter Associate
OTTAWA Green Roots Landscaping Inc David Hiel 37 Viscount Ave, Ottawa, ON K1Z 7M8 Tel: 613-859-0036 Membership Type: Member Natura Design Pascal Legault 1810 Hwy 34, Hawkesbury, ON K6A 2R2 Tel: 613-632-1177 Membership Type: Member
TORONTO 360 Outdoor Group Marco Baggetta 70 Snidercroft Rd, Concord, ON L4K 2K3 Tel: 416-760-7474 Membership Type: Professional Member Alcar Construction Equipment Ltd Al Janabi 12423 Coleraine Dr, Bolton, ON L7E 3B4 Tel: 647-479-8495 Membership Type: Chapter Associate Anthony Furlano Construction Inc Caitlin Casinha 14 Cherry Lane, New Tecumseth, ON L9R 0M1 Tel: 905-729-1077 Membership Type: Member Bill Walsh Inc Bill Walsh 1-9 Rouge River Dr, Scarborough, ON M1B 6J4 Tel: 416-525-6867 Membership Type: Member Blue 2 Green Group Ltd Michael Sparrow 4007 Holborn Rd, Queensville, ON L0G 1R0 Tel: 416-575-3214 Membership Type: Member Beech Piping Brent Beech 11A Glen Crescent Dr Glen Williams, ON L7G 2X6 Tel: 905-301-2320 Membership Type: Chapter Associate
Danosh Construction Frank Kelly 19386 McCowan Rd Mount Albert, ON L0G 1M0 Tel: 905-473-6883 Membership Type: Associate Herc Rentals Glen Keam 6900 Finch Ave W Etobicoke, ON M9W 0A8 Tel: 877-974-3789 Membership Type: Associate LawnMart Inc Michael Schafer 101 Simona Dr Bolton, ON L7E 4E8 Tel: 905-857-2957 Membership Type: Professional Member Method Earth Ricardo Nunez 170 Wicksteed Ave Toronto, ON M4G 2B6 Tel: 416-548-5988 Membership Type: Professional Member Thomas Irrigation and Lighting Ltd Tom Oldham CIC 94 Robbins Ave, Toronto, ON M4L 1X3 Tel: 647-347-3540 Membership Type: Member Tamika Bishop Brampton, ON Membership Type: Individual
UPPER CANADA Michael Hepburn Colborne, ON Membership Type: Individual
WATERLOO Citywide Property Maintenance Inc Dave McPherson 8-11 Centennial Rd Kitchener, ON N2B 3E9 Tel: 519-841-3965 Membership Type: Member Diadem Landscape Construction Tom Musetti 27 Rich Ave, Cambridge, ON N1R 2A4 Tel: 519-781-2093 Membership Type: Member Drost Construction Inc David Drost PO Box 161, Petersburg, ON N0B 2H0 Tel: 519-465-6707 Membership Type: Chapter Associate Fletcher’s Landscaping Inc Lisa VanDonkersgoed 1190 Wallace Ave, Listowel, ON N4W 1M5 Tel: 519-291-3267 Membership Type: Professional Member Mr. Markus Maintenance Markus Rabstein 6163 Guelph St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0 Tel: 519-843-2613 Membership Type: Professional Member Wallenstein Equipment Inc Philip Horst 7201 Line 86, Wallenstein, ON N0B 2S0 Tel: 519-699-9283 x301 Membership Type: Associate
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LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
PROFESSIONAL NEWS
ONTARIO RELEASES SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR BUSINESS SECTORS The Ontario government is providing employers safety guidelines to protect workers, customers, and the general public from COVID-19 as it gradually reopens the economy. The safety guidelines offer direction to workers in the manufacturing, food manufacturing and processing, restaurant and food service, and the agricultural sectors. These measures build on more than 60 guidelines developed by Ontario’s health and safety associations in response to COVID-19. “We all want to reopen our businesses, services and favourite places across the
province, but we must do it in a safe and responsible way,” said Premier Doug Ford. “That’s why we are providing clear guidelines to employers, with practical measures to help them keep staff and customers safe while preventing the spread of COVID-19. By taking these steps, we will be prepared to get people back to work when the time is right.” These new sector-specific guidelines feature recommended actions employers can begin to plan for as they prepare to adapt to the new reality during COVID-19, including: Ways to ensure appropriate physical distancing, like eliminating pay-at-the-door options, holding team meetings outdoors,
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MORE RESOURCES ONLINE
gfl.me/h827
staggering shift times and using ground markings and barriers to manage traffic flow. Changes to the workplace, like installing plexiglass barriers, increasing the air intake on building heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to increase air flow, and using boot sanitizing trays. Promoting proper workplace sanitation, providing personal protective equipment, substituting dry dusting with vacuuming, ensuring customer-facing staff are given hand sanitizer, providing a place to dispose of sanitizing wipes, and enforcing hand washing before and after breaks. The government also issued posters to
LANDSCAPE ONTARIO promote safety tips. The posters offer advice on physical distancing and sanitation so employers can print and post them in their workplaces. “We are truly in extraordinary times and employers and employees are facing situations they have never had to deal with before,” said Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development. “It is incumbent on our government, with the advice of health officials, to provide the guidance and tips outlining the safest ways to reopen workplaces and help prevent the spread.” Starting in May, 58 new inspectors joined the hundreds of existing provincial labour inspectors on the ground. The inspectors, which include workers from the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) and the Ontario College of Trades (OCOT), will be tasked with communicating COVID-19 safety guidelines to essential workplaces or enforcing emergency measures, including physical distancing and the closure of nonessential businesses. “Protecting the health and well-being of Ontarians during the COVID-19 outbreak has been and will always be our government’s number one priority,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “These guidelines will help employers begin to plan for their safe reopening based on the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health and in alignment with our framework to ease public health measures and restart our economy. In doing so, we can ensure we continue to stop the spread of COVID-19 and keep workers safe.” “Our province’s businesses have made great efforts to protect the health and safety of their workers throughout the course of this pandemic,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “These new guidelines will help employers continue to protect their staff and customers as we begin to carefully and methodically re-open our economy, so that we can return Ontario to prosperity in the safest way possible.” The government is committed to a careful, stage-by-stage approach to loosening emergency measures and reopening Ontario’s economy. Public health and workplace safety will remain the top priority, while balancing the needs of people and businesses. For a link to access the government guidelines and the posters, view the online version of this article at gfl.me/h827.
Start decontaminating your workplace with this free checklist With more businesses reopening in Ontario every week, now is the time to look at how to decontaminate your workplace and prevent the spread of COVID-19 among employees and customers. “According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, if the workplace has been closed for more than seven days, you don’t need a full-scale decontamination; however, you will still want to implement measures for ongoing decontamination of surfaces,” says Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS) occupational hygienist, Kelly Fernandes. To guide you through the process, WSPS has developed a downloadable decontamination checklist full of practical, actionable considerations. The checklist also provides pre-contamination guidelines, outlines how to decontaminate areas where a worker is suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19, and provides links for more detailed information.
Apply a team approach Fernandes suggests assembling a pandemic recovery team that includes a variety of stakeholders, such as managers, supervisors, building maintenance, housekeeping, joint health and safety
committee members, and others who could provide insights on what’s needed in your workplace. Establishing decontamination procedures and schedules should be among the committee’s tasks. Screen workers using a questionnaire before they come back to work. “If they have symptoms or have been near someone who had COVID-19,” Fernandes advises, “they should self-isolate for 14 days.” Determine which disinfectant products are best suited to your workplace, then train cleaning staff and workers on their use and application. Include hazards and safety precautions, and procedures for putting on, using, removing and disposing of personal protective equipment (PPE). “Much of this training can take place ahead of time if everyone has access to computers,” Fernandes says. Ensure workers are thoroughly washing their hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before and after cleaning (e.g., before donning gloves and after doffing gloves). Create a schedule for decontaminating high-touch surfaces, such as tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, touchscreens, equipment, tools, toilets, faucets, and sinks. “Be sure to consider
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LANDSCAPE ONTARIO disinfecting between shifts, and between use of shared tools or equipment.” Use vacuums equipped with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters wherever possible. Place all waste materials resulting from decontamination in sealed bags, and wipe the sealed bags with disinfectant. “Bags should go right outside into the waste bin. And don’t compact them — potentially contaminated materials could get out into the air.”
Resources from WSPS The decontamination checklist and Post Pandemic Business Playbook are just two of the new resources available from WSPS. Others include: pandemic preparedness, infection control, COVID-19 business planning and industry association supports, work refusals, mental health, working remotely, and post-pandemic business recovery. They are available online via WSPS. Find links via the online version of this article at gfl.me/h82a. More resources are available from the WSPS website at wsps.ca or by calling 1-877-494-WSPS (9777).
Remembering those who lost their lives on the job The National Day of Mourning (April 28), was established in 1984 to commemorate workers and their families affected by workplace accidents, providing an opportunity to reflect on those who were injured or died at work. On April 28, The Honourable Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development, issued the following statement regarding the National Day of Mourning: “Today, we observe the National Day of Mourning to honour those who have died, been injured or become ill in the course of their work. I’m asking everyone in Ontario to take a few moments to remember those who are no longer with us, and think about those who are still living with the consequences of a workplace tragedy.
This is an extraordinary year, as it brings with it the never-before seen risk of COVID-19. Clearly, this deadly virus puts us all in harm’s way, especially our essential workers who have been on the front lines protecting us, caring for us and serving us since the outbreak began several weeks ago. I am deeply saddened when I think of all of those who have lost their life due to COVID-19, including our workers and our seniors. Their lives will be celebrated, their contributions will be honoured, and their absence will be mourned. If a worker ever has any concerns about their safety at work, they can file a complaint with the Ministry’s Health and Safety Contact Centre by calling 1-877-202-0008.”
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LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
EXECUTIVE DESK
Positive aspects of the global pandemic
R
ecently, I was sent an article that outlines the global risks associated with the coronavirus pandemic. It was based on the outlook and perspectives of the world’s top risk professionals. Economic risks are the most pronounced. There is a fear that the world will enter into a long period of recession. Widespread bankruptcy, industry consolidation, failure of industries to recover and a disruption of supply chains were identified as likely scenarios. How does this perspective relate to the landscape professions? Why should we care? The main reason we should care is that the world is interconnected. We are not immune to economic cycles. We should be as proactive as possible in order to prepare ourselves — just in case these scenarios play out. We should always be aware of the risks and find the opportunities within the crisis. We should be thinking about new ways to do things. It is important to remind ourselves the moments that define us are those that challenge us. This is an adventure. There are positive aspects to bad times. It reminds us that although there are many things we cannot control, we have the ability and freedom to choose our attitude and our response. It is grounding to know that we are the masters of our own choices. I often reflect on this profound, lifechanging fact. I clearly remember the epiphany I had as a young teenager sitting outside the library at Humber College,
wondering if I should drop out of school. Had I made the right career choice? What on Earth was landscaping anyway? Could I make a living at it? Emotionally, I felt unsettled, as if I was being tossed about by waves, until finally, I understood I had the freedom to choose my attitude. I chose to do well, no matter what. I chose to do the best I could. It made all the difference. COVID has quickly and seriously affected just about everything. From one week to the next, things became entirely different. Reality shifted in a moment. This paralyzed many of us. It stimulated a great deal of fear and uneasiness. It brought out the worst in some and brought out the best in many. It has energized, stimulated, challenged, forced change and created many opportunities. It also revealed the importance of social networks. We are not meant to be alone. COVID forced us to acknowledge our interdependence. In an odd way, it unified us. From an association perspective, it magnified our relevance. Our core purpose is to be a trusted place where members can gather to help one another. We are a community for mutual benefit and improvement. Community building has never been more necessary. It has illuminated the importance and potential of technology, especially in communicating broadly. It has taught us that education can be very accessible (We delivered 24 webinars in 32 days, with over 4,500 participants). COVID has highlighted the importance
Tony DiGiovanni LO Executive Director
tony@landscapeontario.com
19
of caring for each other. It has made life and relationships more real. It has brought us all together in a way that only shared experience and adversity can. COVID has shown us the importance of collaboration and relationships. Heather MacRae, LO’s director of trade shows and events, recently shared a video that her son received from the teachers, administrators and custodial staff at his school. It was full of hope, encouragement and care. I thought I would share some of the quotes. They are just as relevant, meaningful and uplifting to school children as to hardened adults like us. It is a good thing to plant hope — especially in our profession.
“When it rains, look for rainbows. When it is dark, look for stars. “Fear does not stop death, it stops life.” “Worrying does not take away tomorrow’s troubles, it takes away today’s peace.” “Where there is light, there is hope.” “Be hopeful, be strong, be resilient.” “Hope is passion for the possible.” “A pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity — an optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty.” — Winston Churchill May we remain optimistic in the face of all challenges. Your staff at Landscape Ontario wishes you a wonderful season.
LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
MEMBERSHIP
Finding the silver lining
I
developed online shopping platforms (and done so in record time) to reach customers in new ways which has proven to be very successful. At the beginning of the shutdown, LO’s membership team took on the daunting task of calling every single LO member. The calls we made to members were tough. We heard your struggles and your biggest worries, but we also heard about how you were discovering kindred spirits within your own company and clientele. And some members had clients choose to work with companies that were disregarding public health recommendations. But you know what? That may be a good thing. Do you really want those folks as your clients? (Weeding out the not-so-great clients and focusing on your best and right-fit clients was actually discussed at length in one a COVID-19 related webinar held by Jim Paluch and Scott Wentworth). The coronavirus pandemic has forced us to examine the bigger picture outside of profit margins. It catapulted us out of our daily lives, which so many of us (myself included) took for granted. These last few weeks have shown peoples’ true colours and given us the chance to purge the negativity and bad seeds within our circles. I am trying to look at this entire ordeal as a wake-up call that perhaps we all needed for one reason or another. The changed environment we now have to navigate is an opportunity for reflection and to prioritize our lives. We have learned what we can go without, and how to obtain and focus on the things we really need. I know we all want to get back to normal. Through all of the change and chaos, it is important to remember the important things which have stayed true during these difficult times: family and community. We are so glad that you are a part of the LO family. We truly are stronger together.
f the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us anything, it is the power of community. One example is Ed Hansen, Landscape Ontario’s 2nd vice-president. Ed has been doing a series on LinkedIn on the “Positive experiences throughout COVID-19.” If you haven’t seen Ed’s videos yet, they are definitely worth a watch. I think Ed’s perspective on this situation is one that we can all adopt. There is no doubt that coronavirus has had a devastating impact on just about every sector of the economy and families have faced unprecedented struggles. In addition to store closures, lack of toilet paper and flour, and long lineups at the grocery store, COVID-19 has brought many other challenges. As these challenges drag on, it is important for your mental well being to try and find a silver lining to help you to realize that there is an eventual end in sight. Over the past several weeks, I have seen LO members come together as a community like never before. The LO COVID-19 Task Force assembled swiftly, held daily meetings and communicated developments to members via weekly town hall webinars to answer questions and share information on the ever-changing pandemic. Members are celebrating the successes of their peers and colleagues. We have also seen countless examples of members helping members by reviewing each other’s policies, online peer group discussions, etc., and the collective power of the Landscape Ontario community led to successful lobbying efforts to get green-industry businesses back to work as soon as possible. We’ve embraced technology in new ways and faster than ever. Within weeks, professional development seminars and chapter meetings have transitioned to online platforms and members are staying connected in new and more efficient ways. Depots, supply yards and garden centres have
Myscha Stafford LO Membership and Chapter Coordinator myscha@landscapeontario.com
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LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
UNDERGROUND WORLD
Late locate status reviewed
O
Better input into the system: There must be better input coming from the excavator with each locate request.
ver the winter, one of the most talked-about subjects in the damage prevention industry was late locates. Many locates in 2019 took as long as three to four weeks. This is unacceptable given that back in 2015, Bill 8 legislation was passed, mandating locates be completed within five days. The legislation also gave the power of policing the five-day completion to ON1CALL. The power to fine locate companies or utilities who did not comply with the five-day timeline was also given to ON1CALL. In January 2020, I asked the question: “How many fines were levied over the last five years for late locates?” The answer that I received was zero. I can not think of another law that is so regularly broken, and has no fines handed out. The speed limit in most school zones is 40 kph, yet people often drive 60 to 70 kph, but at least those areas are routinely monitored by police with many tickets handed out. In my opinion, the system has not challenged locate companies with fines, so they have not been motivated to fix the current problem. The solution was to meet the requirements in five days, or change the law. ON1CALL has done neither. So the problem of late locates still exists without any definite solution. It seems that everybody has simply accepted late locates as a normal condition. This has to change!
Improved forecasting by excavators: Excavators must do more and better forecasting, especially on large tree planting and municipal projects. Dedicated locators will be established and will be dedicated to large municipal projects. System of incentives and fines: Develop a system that rewards companies who complete locates within the five-day legislation and fines for those who do not. It would be performance based. (This should have been implemented five years ago). Better records on late locates: Develop better recordkeeping so we know how many late locates are actually performed. We need real data on how many days late locates are. (Which we currently do not have). Understanding economic factors: Recognizing and reacting to economic conditions that may affect construction and the demand on new locate volume requests to ON1CALL and locate companies.
Conclusion
Proposed solutions
The first step in solving the problem is recognizing that there is a serious problem, and how it affects the damage prevention community. Only then can we work to remedy the problem. We also need statistical data on the number of locates and in how many days the various locate requests were completed. I believe if we can implement these suggestions, we will find a marked improvement in this area of late locates. The ORCGA’s goal is to eliminate late locates so that contractors can rely on the system to deliver locates within the legislated five-day time period. Please contact me with any questions, comments or suggestions on any damage prevention issue.
The subject of late locates is discussed at every Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance (ORCGA) Board of Directors meeting. Locaters, excavators and ON1CALL are all members of the board and all fully understand the challenges. ON1CALL and the 13 ORCGA Geographic Councils have had meetings over the winter months on the issue. Late locates was also the subject of a seminar at the recent ORCGA Symposium in February. Here are some of the recommendations that are proposed for this season that are designed to help eliminate late locates:
Terry Murphy CLM
tvmurphy@ca.inter.net
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LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
PROSPERITY PARTNERS
A leadership blueprint
W
ithout a doubt, the Landscape Ontario community has shone through the crisis of April and May that struck our profession at the worst possible time of year. I am impossibly proud to be an LO member. Over the past two months, not a week has gone by where I haven’t felt both grateful and impressed with the sincere dedication of the LO staff team, the volunteer COVID-19 Task Force, those allied with the industry, the garden communicators, the allied professional business coaches and many more. There’s a long, long list of leaders who have stepped up amidst rapid and uncertain change. It’s an impressive and long list of entrepreneurs and volunteers who have come together to give dozens (if not hundreds) of hours dedicated to finding clarity on rapidly changing, complex and time-sensitive issues to support members. Some researched tirelessly and posted resources. Some ‘pulled strings’ to get answers from politicians and community leaders. Some worked hard to reassure, and others advised on next steps and how to create new plans. Sir Winston Churchill once said, “Never let a good crisis go to waste.” He was referring to the unlikely trio alliance created between Great Britain, the U.S. and Russia in February 1945 — when among other things, they agreed to collaborate to form the United Nations. Amidst a crisis, they came together to create opportunity. In my opinion, Landscape Ontario has
just shown the same leadership blueprint for stronger members and an improved professional community for the future. LO has demonstrated how to rally in a crisis — with humility, sincerity and patience. If any of you ever doubted the value of LO before, I hope that you never will again. If I’m correct, then Tony DiGiovanni is our Winston. He’ll possibly be cross with me for saying so, but every cause and every army has its leader. And Tony has truly led the collaboration and mutual improvement ethic, which has equipped and empowered our members to succeed as best as possible this spring. In the midst of an unpredictably and rapidly-changing business and health landscape, Tony mobilized LO’s leadership team (welcome aboard, Joe Salemi!) and the staff to swing into action swiftly and effectively. In doing so, they have equipped members to do the same. AND, this has raised the profile of our profession with politicians and policymakers alike. LO has been the broker of an unbelievable amount of valuable and important information, at a time when we needed it the most. In an instant, LO jumped into the webinar business (thanks in large part to the lovely Keri MacIvor!). The countless webinars are a blur. And we now have online training modules up and running as well. Personally, I connected with LO’s Peer to Peer Network members by hosting twiceweekly ‘coffee chats’ via Zoom with up to 35 peers at a time — and facilitated great mentors and resource people, like Dave Wright
Jacki Hart CLM Prosperity Partners Program Manager info.peertopeer@landscapeontario.com
22
(LO president), Mark Bradley (LMN CEO), Scott Wentworth, Frank Bourque, and Alan ..White (LO Task Force chair). Our community has come together like never before. We keep moving forward even when we don’t know what that really looks like. Thank you LO. Thank you outdoor profession entrepreneurs. We’ve GOT this!
Safety compliance in a new age
As we move through the various phases of COVID-19 restrictions and openings, there are many challenges still ahead with respect to keeping protocols in place for worker safety, team health, and family protection. Complacency is going to be tough to avoid. As the weather warms up, masks and gloves will become less and less manageable. As more people venture back outside, social distancing will become harder to ensure and enforce. Now that you have your policies and procedures in place, I think the next challenge is to keep staff, clients, sub-trades and suppliers engaged and compliant in the longer term. We can all see and hear the risks that our ‘normal’ PPE protects us from, but we can’t see the risk of COVID-19 unless we’re watching the news, or have loved ones amid outbreak situations, whether at work or in long-term care residences. Please keep an eye on complying with all of your policies and procedures. Complacency can and will creep in… it’s human nature to go back to the old ways.
LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
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