The Scoop - April 2021 by Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association

DEICING SALTS

MDA INSPECTIONS

EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP PLUS:

IT’S AN EMERGENCY! HURRY UP AND WAIT…ASAP

april 2021 n v44 n4

COMMON VIOLATIONS

ALSO INSIDE:

THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MINNESOTA NURSERY & LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION

WHOLESALE

g n i r p S

INTO THE NEXT SEASON

& PROFESSIONAL TURF SUPPLY

Premium Mulches • Long lasting dye

Premium and Custom Blended Soils

• Several options for all your customers

• Delivery available, or pickup at 3 convenient locations

• Custom blending available for site specific jobs

Early Spring Annuals • Spring blooming cold tolerate annuals available • Get a breath of fresh air • Time to beautify your planters

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april 2021 n v44 n4

14 45

8 Events 18

10 Membership: Doing the Right Thing to Ensure a Healthy Association On behalf of the Board of Directors, President Tim Malooly outlines a path to financial sustainability.

21 Legal Issues: The 3 Most Common Green Industry Violations of Employment Law 49

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Faith Appelquist tells the story of how the gypsy moth came to America.    

Effective Leadership Through Uncharted Territories Jerry Olson reflects on the changes the pandemic has brought to green industry businesses, and how to navigate through them. 

What Are MDA Inspectors Looking For?

Steven Shimek shares what inspectors may search for at your growing or retail site, and what will happen if they find it.  

2021 HRI Research Grant Awards

Projects include research on production practices, consumer perceptions, pollinators, and plant disease and management. 

It’s an Emergency!! Hurry Up and Wait…ASAP

Dr. David Roberts covers some common tree health management scenarios and what professionals can learn from them.     

Deicing Salts

Dr. Calkins discusses how the green industry must balance public safety with

These are the violations that Patrick McGuiness sees occurring regularly in the Green Industry.

25 Trucking Safety Infographic The MN Trucking Association shares safety data, encouraging seatbelts, speed limits, and no phones.

45 How to Choose a GILI Candidate Choosing a candidate should be done carefully. Here are some tips for selecting the right person.

46 Make a Difference MNLA committees offer you the opportunity to affect change while working side-by-side with green industry colleagues.

56 Northern Green Virtual Goes On Build your business acumen to better engage and communicate with both customers and employees.

58 Updates on Green Industry Careers Projects The MNLA Foundation hosted a series of career events this winter to help members find employees.

61 Advocacy in 2021 Minnesota’s green industry can influence policy not just during legislative sessions, but throughout the calendar year.

plant and ecosystem health when using deicers.    Landscape & Hardscape Install & Design  Garden Services & Landscape Mgmt  Garden Centers  Growers: Nursery & Greenhouse  Irrigation & Water Mgmt  Arborists & Tree Services  All

Cover photo: iStock.com/cifotart. Table of Contents Images: Top: iStock.com/francescoch. Middle: iStock.com/FatCamera. Bottom: James Calkins april 21 MNLA.BIZ

DIRECTORY

april 2021 n v44 n4

MINNESOTA NURSERY & LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION Successful Businesses Grow Here! 1813 Lexington Ave. N., Roseville, MN 55113 651-633-4987 • Fax: 651-633-4986 Outside the metro area, toll free: 888-886-MNLA, Fax: 888-266-4986 www.MNLA.biz • www.NorthernGreen.org Mission: The mission of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association is to help members grow successful businesses. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Tim Malooly, CID, CLIA, CIC, President Water in Motion 763-559-7771 • timm@watermotion.com Randy Berg, Vice-President Berg’s Nursery, Landscape/Garden Center 507-433-2823 • randy@bergsnursery.com Matt Mallas, Secretary-Treasurer Hedberg Supply 763-512-2849 • mmallas@hedbergaggregates.com Faith Appelquist, MNLA-CP Tree Quality LLC 612-618-5244 • faith@treequality.com Terri McEnaney Bailey Nurseries (651) 459-9744 • terri.mcenaney@baileynursery.com Patrick McGuiness Zlimen & McGuiness PLLC (651) 331-6500 • pmcguiness@zmattorneys.com John O’Reilly Otten Bros. Garden Center and Landscaping 952-473-5425 • j.oreilly@ottenbros.com Jeff Pilla, MNLA-CP Professional Turf, Inc. (Proturf) 952-469-8680 • jeff@professionalturf.com Nick Sargent, MNLA-CP Sargent’s Landscape Nursery, Inc. 507-289-0022 • njsargent@sargentsgardens.com Cassie Larson, CAE MNLA Executive Director 651-633-4987 • cassie@mnla.biz STAFF DIRECTORY Executive Director: Cassie Larson, CAE • cassie@mnla.biz Membership Director & Trade Show Manager: Mary Dunn, CEM • mary@mnla.biz Communications Dir.: Jon Horsman, CAE • jon@mnla.biz Education/Cert. Manager: Susan Flynn • susan@mnla.biz Dir. of Government Affairs: Forrest Cyr • forrest@mnla.biz Regulatory Affairs Manager: Jim Calkins • jim@mnla.biz Accountant: Kris Peterson • kris@mnla.biz Foundation Program Coordinator: Paulette Sorenson • paulette@mnla.biz Administrative Assistant: Lora Sondrol • lora@mnla.biz Advertising Sales: 763-295-5420 Betsy Pierre, Advertising Mgr • betsy@pierreproductions.com Legislative Affairs Consultant: Doug Carnival 6

MNLA.BIZ april 21

Arborjet .................................................................................................... 26 Bachman’s Wholesale Nursery & Hardscapes ................................ 3 Borgert Products, Inc. ......................................................................... 39 Bullis Insurance Agency ....................................................................... 9 Carlin Horticultural Supplies/ProGreen Plus ................................ 59 Central Landscape Supply ................................................................. 34 Contree Sprayer & Equipment Co, LLC ............................................ 28 COWSMO, INC. ....................................................................................... 59 Cushman Motor Co. Inc ....................................................................... 11 Davey Twin Cities Wood Products .................................................... 16 Dayton Bag & Burlap .......................................................................... 55 Edney Distributing Co., Inc. ............................................................... 52 Fury Motors ........................................................................................... 43 Gertens Wholesale & Professional Turf Supply .............................. 2 Glacial Ridge Growers ......................................................................... 24 Gopher State One-Call ....................................................................... 53 Green Turf Sod Farms ........................................................................... 4 Haag Companies, Inc. ......................................................................... 51 Hedberg Supply .................................................................................... 24 Hoffman & McNamara Nursery and Landscape ........................... 59 Jeff Belzer Chevrolet ...................................................................... 32–33 Keen Edge Company ........................................................................... 22 Klaus Nurseries .................................................................................... 28 Kubota .................................................................................................... 20 Landscape Alternatives Inc. .............................................................. 34 Lano Equipment, Inc. .......................................................................... 24 Minnesota Propane Association ...................................................... 34 Minnesota State Horticultural Society ........................................... 28 Monroe Truck Equipment .................................................................. 48 Out Back Nursery ................................................................................. 55 Plaisted Companies ............................................................................... 7 Rock Hard Landscape Supply ........................................................... 28 SMSC Organics Recycling Facility ....................................................... 9 Sunbelt Midwest .................................................................................. 47 Synthetic Grass Supply ......................................................................... 9 The Resultants ....................................................................................... 11 The Tessman Company ....................................................................... 47 Toft’s Outdoor Supply ......................................................................... 52 Tri-State Bobcat, Inc. .......................................................................... 44 Unilock Chicago, Inc. ........................................................................... 23 Versa-Lok Midwest .............................................................................. 31 Wheeler Landscape Supply ................................................................ 55 Ziegler CAT ............................................................................. Back Cover

UPCOMING

MNLA continues to plan education and events for the green industry. All precautions will be taken to meet social distancing requirements and the guidelines set in place by local and state agencies as well as venues. Should changes occur causing an event to be cancelled due to COVID-19 issues, your registration would be refunded in full.

JUL

10 –14 JUL

CULTIVATE 21

AmericanHort will host Cultivate’21 — the premier event for the entire horticulture industry — at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Columbus, OH ➽Cultivate21.org

MNLA FOUNDATION WIDMER GOLF TOURNAMENT

Mark your calendars and get your foursomes together! All proceeds benefit the MNLA Research Fund. Crystal Lake Golf Club, Lakeville ➽MNLA.biz

JUL

27 –28

SIMA SYMPOSIUM ROADSHOW

In 2021, SIMA will pilot the Symposium Roadshow — four smaller, strategically located events that will bring all the things people love about the show into a smaller footprint, possibly closer to home. Earle Brown Heritage Center, Minneapolis, MN ➽SIMA.org

AUG

05 AUG

LANDSCAPE DESIGN TOUR

Mark your calendars now for the 2021 drive yourself tour. Details will be in place soon! ➽MNLA.biz

MNLA MEMBER APPRECIATION

MNLA will be celebrating our members with a full day of fun. Stop by the MNLA Office during the day for treats, then continue the fun into the evening at CHS Field for MNLA Night at the Saints Game! MNLA Office, Roseville ➽ MNLA.biz

AUG

MNLA NIGHT AT THE SAINTS GAME

You are invited to the 6th Annual MNLA Night at the Saints Game. Price includes game ticket and dinner — and tons of fun with colleagues and MNLA friends! CHS Field, St. Paul ➽ MNLA.biz

iStock.com/Nickbeer

The Scoop, April 2021, Issue 4 is issued monthly, 12 times per year. All original works, articles or formats published in The Scoop are © Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association, 2021, and may not be used without written permission of MNLA, 1813 Lexington Ave N., Roseville, MN 55113. Subscription price is $99 for one year, which is included with member dues. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Scoop, MNLA, 1813 Lexington Ave N., Roseville, MN 55113. Editorial Contributions. You are invited to share your

2021 MNLA seminars

expertise and perspective. Article ideas and manuscripts

generously supported by:

should, whenever possible, reflect real and specific

WHOLESALE NURSERY & HARDSCAPES

Your Trusted Partner

experiences. When submitting an article, please contact the publisher at jon@mnla.biz or 651-633-4987. MNLA



reserves the right to edit all Scoop content.

➽Information on industry events: MNLA.biz/events. Free member-only videos: MNLA.biz/OnlineEducation.

MNLA.BIZ april 21

Business

 Skills Training

 Networking



Leadership Development

General

FROM THE BOARD

Membership: Doing the Right Thing to Ensure a Healthy Association Tim Malooly

Water in Motion

On behalf of your MNLA Board of Directors, this article is written to notify members of one of the most impactful actions taken in response to the economic realities of a changing world and especially in consideration of the events of the past year: increasing membership dues. We believe the decision to increase membership dues is a positive step for the Association, and we hope you will agree. For much of the history of MNLA, the Association, like many associations, has been reliant on events to help fund operations. For a long time, our reliance on events like Northern Green, Education Days and Master Classes proved generally financially reliable albeit, modest, revenue sources. However, like many associations, the mix of events and dues to fund our day-to-day has prevented the financial advancement necessary to fund our dreams and aspirations for industry advancement. Before 2020, we were tracking trends that indicated our reliance on events to fund operations was becoming perilous. Not only had we been experiencing challenges to fund new initiatives but, the trends were clearly illustrating that changes would soon be necessary to the way we fund our operation. …Then, we experienced 2020 and the COVID-19 actions… The resilience of the green industry through COVID-19 has been inspiring. Not only has the industry survived, but some member companies have thrived — and innovated — in response to the pandemic. All the while, MNLA worked hard on behalf of its members to both advocate for and, connect with members during the crisis. In the face of a pandemic and unprecedented times, your dues:

• Supported the advocacy work that helped declare the green industry essential. • Increased access to online/virtual education needed for you and your employees. • Funded workforce development projects such as a 10

MNLA.BIZ april 21

virtual job fair, mentorship, and leadership programs. • Helped support critical streams of communication sharing from the association to the industry and member-to-member interactions. • Allowed MNLA to be a prominent resource for lawmakers on environmental, agricultural, construction, and small business issues and hosting of Virtual Day on the Hill. • Facilitated the celebration of industry accomplishments through the Landscape Awards Program, Advocate of the Year, Member Appreciation event, and volunteer recognition. • Enabled the first ever Virtual Northern Green encouraging commerce and education in Minnesota and beyond. • And so much more… Regardless of the events of 2020, the need for effective advocacy, strong representation, relevant education, business connections and workforce development initiatives remains as strong as ever. That said, the accelerated economic challenges posed by the pandemic, combined with aggravation of the trends-of-change we’ve been observing in how we associate, resulted in a direct and undeniable requirement for immediate and strong leadership to ensure the financial stability, vitality and effectiveness of our Association. In response, your MNLA Board of Directors carefully assembled and authorized a multi-year program to increase membership dues to eliminate the current risks and trends associated with funding operations. Once complete, the MNLA operation will be stable, funded by member dues.

The decision to adjust dues to cover the cost of operation did not come about lightly. A LOT of work went into the decision. At the end of the day, it was determined that a membership fee increase was — and is — the best course of action to save and strengthen our association. For the largest segment of our membership, the final new annual dues amount will be about the price of one white-tablecloth restaurant meal for four. What value will you see in return? Based on membership surveys conducted bi-annually, members want the association to work effectively on legislative and regulatory affairs. A continued and steady investment in regulatory and legislative affairs is a high and necessary priority for the association now and after COVID-19 actions. Additionally, your MNLA Board has been focusing on new programs and services to address industry workforce development. The changes to our dues structure will help advance this and other initiatives being put forward by industry committees, task teams, and the Board. We value your feedback! Please let us know your opinions and ideas. This is your association. Your membership is vital to the success of the organization and the advancement of the industry. We can accomplish more together than we can individually! Ensuring financial stability will help enable future leaders to confidently lead us into a bright industry future. For the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association Board of Directors: • Faith Appelquist, • Randy Berg, • Matt Mallas, • Terri McEnaney, • Patrick McGuinnes, • John O’Reilly, • Jeff Pilla, • Nick Sargent, • And immediate past member, Mike McNamara I am:

Your One Tractor Solution

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Schedule a Ventrac Demo with:

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When the water gets choppy, are you able to adjust course or will you get caught in the storm?

Timothy Malooly MNLA President

timm@watermotion.com Make Your Business Go Further, Faster™ www.theResultants.com

april 21 MNLA.BIZ

TREES

HUNGRY The Very

CATERPILLAR

Faith Appelquist Tree Quality LLC

Gypsy moth caterpillar (Photo courtesy of Pixabay)

pold Trouvelot, who lived at 27 Myrtle Street

in Medford Massachusetts. Trouvelot was a lithographer and astronomer by trade, but his hobby was insects. Sometime in the late 1860’s, he imported the eggs of the European gypsy moth. Some say he wanted to breed the moths with an American species to create a hybrid silk-producer, resistant to many diseases that the silkworm moth suffered. Unbeknownst to Trouvelot, silk moths and gypsy moths are not even in the same insect family and cannot breed with each other. Then one day the gypsy moths escaped. Some sources claim that the caterpillars escaped out a window of Trouvelots house, other say a storm freed the caterpillars from an outdoor net. Treuvelot was “much disturbed on not being able to find them” and informed the local authorities of the moth’s escape. Nothing was done. Gypsy moths were a pest in their native Europe, where they ate hundreds of species of trees and shrubs. At first it seemed his fears were unfounded. All was quiet in Trouvelot’s neighborhood for 10 years. But then toward the end of the 1870’s the caterpillars exploded on the scene. They marched down country roads like an invading army, stripping bare any plant they could find. One resident said, “I went to the front door and sure enough the street was black with them (caterpillars).” Another resident testified to having collected 4 quarts of the caterpillars from one branch of an apple tree. Many people disliked going outdoors because the caterpillars dropped from the trees onto them. Streets and sidewalks were slippery in places because of the crushed caterpillars. Gypsy moth larvae hatch between April and May. Larvae feed on a number of hosts. Preferred are leaves of apple, alder, basswood, hawthorn, oaks, poplars and willows.

Oaks suffer from the gypsy moth’s attack more than other species. Most deciduous trees can withstand one or two consecutive years of defoliation before severe decline or death occurs. Conifers will die after one complete defoliation. Placed in an environment devoid of its natural enemies, the gypsy moth multiplied and spread so rapidly that today it is a pest across the northeastern United States, as far south as Virginia and west to Minnesota. There also have been isolated infestations in California, Oregon and Washington. To this date, the gypsy moth continues to expand its range in the United States, and together with other foliage-eating pests, cause an estimated $868 million in annual damages. Rarely has a hobby gone so badly and publicly awry. Trouvelot returned to his native France in 1882, where it is believed he lived until his death in 1895. This story just goes to show how easy it is to transport exotic invasive species all around the world, sometimes with catastrophic consequences. In the century-and-a-half since Etienne Leopold Trouvelot imported his gypsy moths, international trade has exploded. Cargo ships, planes, people, and live plants now move seamlessly around the globe. According to Juliann Aukema (Historical Accumulation of Nonindigenous Forest Pests in the Continental United States) approximately 2.5 new insects trickle into the United States each year. Every decade or so, one arrives that causes real damage. By the time you read this, perhaps it’s already here.

Historical photo of paper birch defoliated by gypsy moth, Groveland, Mass. Historical photo of workers searching for gypsy moth egg masses in Malden, Mass.

USDA Forest Service - Northeastern Area , USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org

Once there was a Frenchman named Etienne Leo-

USDA Forest Service , USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org

“WHEREVER MAN HAS TRANSPORTED A PLANT FROM ITS NATIVE HABITAT TO A NEW SOIL, HE HAS INTRODUCED A NEW GEOGRAPHICAL FORCE TO ACT UPON IT, AND THIS GENERALLY AT THE EXPENSE OF SOME INDIGENOUS GROWTH WHICH THE FOREIGN VEGETABLE HAS SUPPLANTED.” — George Perkins March, Man and Nature, 1864

➽FAITH APPELQUIST is an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist, an ISA Municipal Specialist MN, and an ASCA Registered Consulting Arborist®. Faith can be reached at faith@treequality.com. april 21 MNLA.BIZ

LEADERSHIP

MNLA.BIZ april 21

Effective Leadership

THROUGH

UNCHARTED TERRITORIES Jerry Olson The Resultants

iStock.com/francescoch

THE PANDEMIC HAS AFFECTED EACH OF US DIFFERENTLY but one thing we can all agree on is that business as we knew it has forever changed. As leaders, we must be flexible to these changes. Does your leadership style allow for that? Are your skills keeping up? Keep those questions in mind as we look at just a few of the ways business has changed in the last year. Workspace Workspaces have changed significantly. Work-From-Home (WFH) and Work-From-Anywhere (WFA) are the norm, not the exception. Even in businesses that work primarily in the field and at clients’ sites have seen changes. Cramming 20 people into your office lobby for the morning circus no longer works. Meetings with clients and prospects at their kitchen table is no longer the accepted norm. Thankfully, great video tools are now readily available to make client meetings still possible. One-on-one meetings with your team members can happen on video calls. And, after a few frustrating months, it seems as if most of us are getting close to becoming adept at using those tools. Though it’s definitely not what the majority of us would prefer, it certainly has helped keep many companies moving forward with business as usual.

We’ll never go back to the way things were in 2019. The top business leaders are incorporating these new ideas about the workspace into their long-term plans. Are you? Employee-employer relationships With tens of millions of people in our country and hundreds of millions world-wide experiencing layoffs, furloughs, pay cuts and other less dramatic disruptions, the foundations of trust in the employee-employer relationship have been shaken, if not destroyed. What does this mean for us as leaders? How can we rebuild and strengthen relationships with our people? Having clear strategies for engaging and empowering people are more important than ever in the current chaos. This is especially true for the green industry and the numerous businesses dependent on flexible seasonal staffing.

Business planning We learned pretty quickly that traditional business planning and management is no match for a pandemic. How were any of us to know what was coming down the pike as we set our goals way back in Q4 of 2019? Though we had great plans and big ideas, a lot of that work went to waste as those goals had nothing to do with re-shifting entire business models to adhere to new guidelines and regulations. How can we think differently about how we plan for the next month, quarter or year? Thousands of businesses in our country have already closed and many more are on the brink. However, many businesses will survive and move forward in this new reality. To lead the pack, companies will need strong, flexible leaders who are excited to face the challenges head, have a compelling vision communicated clearly april 21 MNLA.BIZ

WOOD RECYCLING & MULCH

Learn more about the wood recycling & mulch products from Davey Twin Cities Wood Products! Davey Twin Cities Wood Products produces our mulch from local trees, by using recycled materials, with no chemicals or construction by-products. Mulch helps conserve the moisture and improves the fertility and health of the soil. OUR SOLUTIONS Grinding Services: Intended for large jobs, our grinding services in Minneapolis and St. Paul are operated by experienced, trained employees who will safely turn the largest piles of wood into natural or dyed mulch. Our solution will help you recycle wood material into a valuable product. Mulch & Wood Products: Our premium mulch is made at our facility located in South St. Paul, MN. Our color process is done with only natural additives, making it a safe product for the environment and end users who may come in contact with it. Our grinding services in the Twin Cities are perfect for: • Storm debris clean-up • Recycling pruning and other wood debris • Municipal/Commercial compost and mulch programs • EAB tree disposal • Logging debris • Mobile grinding • Bio-mass fuel davey.com/tcwp

Our Mulch Options: • Light brown • Dark brown • Red • Cedar tone

• Black • Natural Double Grind • Certified Playground

We can offer same day delivery depending on volume and timing. Ask for details. Rick Hogan

Theresa Poechmann

Assistant District Manager, Sales 651.357.0465 rick.hogan@davey.com

Client Experience Coordinator 651.230.5756 theresa.poechmann@davey.com

iStock.com/francescoch

LEADERSHIP

and often to an aligned team, and will run on meaningful, timely data. How do you get there? We have a few suggestions...

1. Create and communicate a compelling vision.

A foundation of business success begins with a clear plan for the future that makes a difference in the lives of those served. This vision must include both a long-term view of a future better than today as well as plans for short-term tactics that move the business forward in meaningful ways. It must also include plans for building and maintaining a desired culture based on shared values. And it must be flexible enough to adjust to our fast-changing society and economy. To make the vision compelling, effective leaders, now more than ever, must be skilled and practiced at clearly communicating the vision. Some of our clients who really excel at this communicate their company’s vision through banners, posters, or words painted on the walls of their buildings. Others include it on their business cards and in their email signatures. We even have one owner who has it tattooed on his arm! Just joking about that last one but you get the point. Your company’s vision cannot sit on a piece of paper in the owner’s office. In order to get your team fully aligned around where you’re going, they have to be privy to the plan, engaged in the business, and ready to adjust when things change. 2. Align your team. Great leaders successfully navigate turbulent times by making sure their team is aligned with the vision for the future, the values on which the

culture is built, and a clear, prioritized action plan broken into weekly increments, with a rhythm of weekly tracking and check-ins that focus on adjusting to what’s happening in real time. So, how do you align your team around a single goal? Better yet, how do you optimize your team members’ skills and strengths to come up with and make that next great idea a reality? We truly believe a team of people aligned with a compelling vision all working in harmony can bring to life great ideas an individual can only dream of. In order to overcome the eroding employer-employee relationship, this alignment must exist throughout the organization. Successful business leaders execute tactics that drive this alignment throughout the company, embedding it in all areas including the recruiting, selection, and performance management processes. This includes setting clear expectations for how the alignment comes to life in the direction of the company as well as the behaviors of the people and the results of their work. It also includes regular one-on-one meetings with your team members with meaningful feedback on how they measure up to the expectations. This is important in every business in the current upheaval and even more so for every business with people who are remote and spend their days out in the field. 3. Identify and track meaningful data. Especially in a time of chaos, measuring progress toward a compelling vision with meaningful, actionable, and timely

data is critical. Using real-time data tracked on a weekly cadence to manage a business can accelerate the business quickly past your competitors. This is especially true in the green industry with diverse projects across a large geography with a work force that leaders might seldom see. Many business systems collect all sorts of data and really, most business leaders and managers actually have more data than they know what to do with. The secret to success is to identify the few metrics that are most meaningful. We recommend a mix of forward-looking activity-based metrics as well as backward-looking data that confirms the results. With meaningful and timely data, an aligned team can make decisions to adjust the business responsively to a quickly changing environment. We’ve seen success in businesses with leaders who consistently communicate a compelling vision, gather an aligned team, and empower them to manage the business, all while keeping their finger on the pulse of meaningful, timely data. ➽Author, JERRY OLSON, is a Business Advisor with The Resultants. The Resultants are a business advisory team that advocates for the best interest of your business, using a process that has proven time and time again to help companies build value and achieve personal and professional success. In addition, The Resultants have provided instruction and curriculum for MNLA’s Leadership Institute for the past six years. To learn more about Jerry and The Resultants, visit www.theResultants.com. april 21 MNLA.BIZ

MDA INSPECTIONS

Detecting harmful plant pests and reporting them before they can cause serious damage

MDA WHAT ARE

INSPECTORS LOOKING FOR?

AND WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN IF THEY FIND SOMETHING? Steven Shimek

iStock.com/Beeldbewerking

MDA Nursery Program Coordinator

MNLA.BIZ april 21

reduces losses and treatment costs. Information on treatment and control, along with follow-up inspections, assures growers and dealers only pestfree stock reaches their customers. Certification also establishes a minimum standard of quality for stock offered for sale. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) inspects and certifies Minnesota grown nursery stock and conducts inspections at dealer locations to prevent the introduction and movement of plant pests. What are MDA Nursery Inspectors looking for when they conduct an inspection? • Documentation showing nursery stock was inspected and certified within 12 months preceding sale • Injurious plant pests, including insects and diseases for the purpose of this article • Stock that does not meet the minimum standard of growth with normal vigor if given reasonable care Nursery stock grown for sale in Minnesota must be inspected annually, and stock from outside Minnesota must be certified in compliance with all state and federal plant pest quarantines by the appropriate plant pest regulatory official at origin. To assure proper certification, MDA Nursery Inspectors perform audits of documentation that must accompany stock shipped from outside the state. Required documents vary depending on the origin and identity of the stock being shipped. When required paperwork is missing, stock is removed from sale pending receipt of documents. It is not uncommon that someone receiving a shipment misplaces the required paperwork. If this happens, the shipper is contacted to provide a copy. If compliance with a quarantine cannot be provided, stock must be returned or destroyed. This process provides a vital line of defense to the introduction of injurious plant pests. Once inspectors establish that all stock at a location was properly certified and received with needed certification documents, the next step in the inspection process is the detection of

plant pests. Signs and symptoms of insect and disease pests are the keys to detection. If a problem is found, the extent of the problem is determined. Inspectors determine if the problem exists on one plant, an entire block of plants, more than one group of plants, and if the problem is found on stock from more than one supplier. MDA Nursery Inspectors attempt to limit restrictions to allow unaffected stock to remain on sale. What happens if an MDA Nursery Inspector finds a pest? Corrective action is determined by the type, severity, and difficulty controlling the pest. Stock displayed for retail sale demands a higher level of pest-free status than in a growing range where additional treatments may be required, and subsequent inspections will be conducted before stock is marketed. Many retail sites do not have the facilities to do treatments or want to hold stock offsale as needed for treatments. The following are possible regulatory actions that have been adopted by many states. Consistency between states provides a framework for interstate movement of pest free stock and outlines expectations of shipping and receiving states. Treat as needed. No restrictions should be issued. This is used for plant pests that are considered quality, cosmetic, or insignificant, pests. Apple scab or leaf chewing insects are examples. They are common pests in Minnesota, do not significantly affect the overall health of the host, and may be easily controlled. If the stock looks bad, it’s not likely to sell. Maintaining appearance is at the discretion of the seller. The severity of the problem is considered when determining if a treatment may be required. If the infestation or infection is severe, treatment may be required. Restricted: Treat and control before sale.

Stock is removed from sale pending control. Certification is denied until the pest is treated and controlled. The word “restricted” is used to denote that a problem exists, and stock must be removed from sale. Powdery mildew is an example of a pest that light infection may be considered cosmetic whereas heavy infection requires treatment.

iStock.com/FatCamera

Proper and knowledgeable use of pesticides is often necessary to control plant pests before stock can be moved or sold. In retail sites, treatment may be required for pests expected to cause significant damage. Pruning out the damaged parts can be included as a treatment where practical. Examples that can be pruned out include black knot of cherry, cankers, fireblight, and insect pests like tent caterpillars. Restricted: Restore vigor before sale. Stock that is not kept under conditions to maintain health and vigor may cause degradation to a point at which it can no longer be offered for sale. Dormant plants that begin to grow, stock that is dried out or waterlogged may be salvaged but must be brought to that minimum standard referenced above. Dormant packaged plants are an example. If potted these plants could still be marketed but vigor must be established before they can be sold. Quarantine: Treat and control before reinspec-

tion. Stock may be placed under quarantine

pending successful control and subsequent reinspection. Certification is denied until the infestation is eliminated. The word “quarantine” is used to denote pests that are more injurious than “restricted” and may be difficult to control. Proper timing of treatment is often critical to the effectiveness of control and may

require stock be held until successful control can be achieved. Fletcher scale on Taxus is an example. Effective control requires application be timed to coincide with the active crawler stage of this insect. That means stock must be held until control can be applied at the right time. If holding stock in quarantine is not practical, as in many retail settings, stock may be returned or destroyed. Quarantine: Pending regulatory action. This is used when a new or emerging regulatory pest is found that may be under state or federal quarantine. Further investigation may be needed. Stock is held in quarantine until a regulatory response and the disposition of the stock has been determined. Spotted lantern fly is an example of pest that has not yet been identified in Minnesota. When found, a strategy will be developed. Stock is held in quarantine until further action is taken. Reject or Return. Any stock infested with a serious plant pest should be rejected upon arrival. Often the problem is not recognized or noticed until after the delivery has been made. Careful inspection of stock should be done when receiving a plant shipment. Once delivery has been accepted and a plant pest is detected, returning stock to origin may be the best course. If this is not practical, stock may need to be destroyed. In some cases,

treatment may be an option. Inspection staff is available to confirm and document the pest infestation to facilitate a resolution. Quarantine: Remove and Destroy This regulatory action is reserved for plant pests for which there is no practical treatment or control. Bronze birch borer, flat-headed apple tree borer, and two-lined Chestnut borer are examples of insects that are likely to cause significant damage to a tree for which there is no effective treatment. Plant diseases including viruses like Hosta virus X and Rose mosaic virus, and wilts like Verticillium wilt are systemic and once plants are infected cannot be treated. What happens if inspectors find something depends upon the level of infestation, previous history of the plants, pest problems at the site, and cooperation of those involved. Weighing these factors allows inspectors to make reasonable and responsible decisions within the above framework. This benefits the buyers, sellers, and consumers.. ➽ STEVEN SHIMEK is the Agriculture Nursery Inspection Program Coordinator for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Contact Steven at steven. shimek@state.mn.us or 651-201-6619. april 21 MNLA.BIZ

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LEGAL ISSUES

Three Most Common Green Industry Violations of Employment Law Employment law is a complicated topic and one that is very boring for a lot of people.

Zlimen & McGuiness PLLC

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iStock.com/pixelliebe

Patrick McGuiness,

There are many different laws, rules & regulations which

apply to Green Industry companies. Sorting through all of that red tape & legislation can be hard even for attorneys. So, this month, in order to convey as much useful information as possible to readers of The Scoop, I decided to share the most common Employment law violations I see in the Green Industry. 1. Misclassification of Workers: This is a huge problem for the industry. Many companies do not want the extra work that comes along with hiring employees and figuring out payroll. So instead of hiring their workers, they treat them as ‘Independent Contractors’ or ‘Subcontractors’. There is a common misconception it is compliant to have a worker sign an independent contractor agreement and issue them a IRS form 1099 at the end of the season. Unless a worker is truly an independent contractor, then taking these steps will not matter if the business is ever audited by the Department of Labor. When DOL comes calling, they look at the circumstances under which the work was taking place. If the worker is paid by the hour, does not bring their own tools to the jobsite, and

their work is controlled by the business, chances are they will be classified as an employee by DOL. Then, the business will owe back taxes on the worker and possibly back overtime pay in addition to any fines and penalties which are assessed by DOL. 2. Not Paying Overtime: Time and again people tell me that they don’t think it is fair that they should have to pay overtime for seasonal work. Whether or not it is fair could be the subject of a very long discussion. What matters however, is that it doesn’t matter if it is fair, just that it is not legally compliant. Even if the employees agree to not being paid overtime, that does not make it compliant. During a DOL audit, unpaid overtime will be assessed for any hours over 40 in a given week, regardless of how well paid the employee is at their regular pay rate. If the DOL audit is random, the assessment will go back 2 years. If the audit is triggered by an employee complaint, the audit can go back 3 years. Bottom line is that employees must be paid overtime unless they qualify for an exemption from overtime. Employees whose job is performing labor are generally not going to april 21 MNLA.BIZ

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LEGAL ISSUES

qualify for any exemptions. While there are some exemptions, many times they are applied incorrectly which leads me to the 3rd common violation of employment law. 3. Paying Salary to Foremen: Whether it is to provide financial security for their foremen, or to avoid dealing with overtime pay, many companies believe that it is legally compliant to pay their foreman a salary and not pay them overtime. Unfortunately, this is wrong. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires that all workers that perform manual labor must be paid overtime. The definition of manual labor includes things like operating a skid steer and on site supervision of other workers. If a DOL audit takes place, they will assess back overtime pay for salaried foremen, no matter how well paid the foremen are. They calculate back pay based on the hours which were worked in excess of 40 for all weeks that went over 40 hours. The assessed rates are generally time and a half, so with well-paid foremen, things can add up very quickly. These are the most common violations of employment laws which I see in the Green Industry. While there are some exemptions and special circumstances which allow businesses to pay less in overtime, they are not a good fit for all companies. Before the season gets in full swing, take a look at the employment practices of your company. Do any of these issues look like they may need addressing? Take action now so that you do not regret it later if you are audited by the Department of Labor. ➽ THIS ARTICLE PROVIDES GENERAL INFORMATION on business matters and

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all relevant facts and apply the applicable law to any matter before legal ment law or other legal matters, please contact Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC at 651-206-3203 or pmcguiness@zmattorneys.com.

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RESEARCH FOR THE REAL WORLD

Both basic and applied research have always been important in enhancing our knowledge of plants, promoting improved production and marketing practices for horticultural commodities, and many other issues that are important to the green industry. To this end, and made possible by donations from the green industry, the Horticultural Research Institute (HRI), the foundation and research affiliate of AmericanHort, is a leader in funding research that has the potential to benefit horticulture and the nursery and landscape industry. AmericanHort and the HRI also publishes the results of peer-reviewed horticultural research that is specifically relevant to all aspects of the green industry through the Journal of Environmental Science. In February HRI announced the research projects that have been awarded funding in 2021. The research projects chosen for funding this year focus on a broad range of research topics including greenhouse and nursery production practices, consumer perceptions of horticultural products and services, pollinator research, and plant disease and management. A total of $364,000 has been awarded this year and examples of some of the research that is being funded this year include projects designed to: • Develop a protocol to rapidly and accurately assess the attractiveness of plants to pollinators at the cultivar level • Develop transparent solar cells for greenhouses that optimize the solar radiation needed to simultaneously maximize plant growth and productivity and the generation of electricity • Identify night LED (light emitting diode) lighting strategies to promote flowering of summer-fall garden mums with reduced or no use of black cloth to reduce production costs • Develop a novel approach based on fluorescence imaging for the early detection of biotic and abiotic plant stress to help mitigate the negative effects of plant stress on crop production • Evaluate methods for efficiently detecting Phytophthora spp. on nursery-grown plants with the goal of improved sanitation through early detection and the elimination of inoculum during production • Characterize the physical and hydraulic properties of engineered wood substrates as components of soilless growing media to satisfy the growing demand for soilless substrates in floriculture and

nursery production Here is a full list of the research projects that have been funded by the HRI this year. Quantifying Plant Benefits A practical method for rapidly assessing pollinator attraction to plant cultivars H. Patch, Penn State University

With the increase in consumer demand for pollinator-friendly plant stock, there is a clear need for a user-friendly method to routinely evaluate plant attractiveness to pollinators. This project will develop a protocol for industry and flower trial assessors to rapidly and accurately estimate a cultivar’s attractiveness to beneficial insects in the field trial settings. Additionally, this project will develop a web tool prototype that will analyze data from this rapid assessment and rank trial cultivars based on their value to insect pollinators. Creating Innovative Solutions Transparent Solar Cell Design for Greenhouses R. R. Lunt & E. Runkle, Michigan State University

We have pioneered a range of transparent solar cells that selectively harvest invisible solar radiation. However, there are key differences between the photopic response in the human eye and the photon action response of plants that need to be considered as these devices are designed specifically for greenhouse applications. In this project we investigate the optical impact of various wavelengths on a range of horticultural crop species. This is the first step to optimize transparent solar cells designed to maximize both plant productivity and electricity generation simultaneously in the same area for worldwide adoptability. Controlling Flowering of Summer-Fall Garden Mums with Strategic LED Lighting Q. Meng, University of Delaware

In summer-fall garden mum programs, growers typically use black cloth to trigger flowering of these short-day plants under otherwise long days. However, pulling black cloth twice a day to create short days incurs labor and material costs with potential heat delay of flowering. Based on a theoretical flowering model for mums, this project aims to identify night LED lighting strategies to promote flowering of summer-fall garden mums with reduced or no use of black cloth. Removal of paclobutrazol from captured irrigation runoff using slow sand filters L. Oki, UC Davis

To stabilize water supplies and comply with runoff regulations, nurseries and greenhouses capture runoff from irrigation and storms. However, captured irrigation runoff may contain plant growth regulators (PGR) at concentrations high enough to cause stunting or deformation of non-target crop plants. Water treatment using slow sand filters may be able to provide long-term removal since contaminants are biologically degraded and the microbes performing the degradation are constantly regenerated. Fluorescence imaging: a low-cost method for early stress detection M. van Iersel, University of Georgia

Plants are exposed to different biotic and abiotic that can negatively impact crop production. Early detection of such stresses is important to mitigate their negative impact on the crop. Such detection typically depends on visual inspection of crops. However, stresses can only be detected when symptoms have become visible. Our objective is to develop and test a novel imaging approach for detection plant stress before visible symptoms are present. Gathering Consumer Insights Gardening purchase motivation and satisfaction during COVID-19 isolation and their effects on likelihood to buy again B. Behe, Michigan State University

The COVID-19 pandemic ignited a big interest in plants. Understanding why and how much of that will influence future plant purchases is the focus of a study to be conducted by Drs. Behe and Huddleston at Michigan State University. They will survey both plant purchasers and non-purchasers to discover how their attitudes and motivations for buying (or not buying) plant differ. Results from 2021 data will be compared to 2020 data. Growers, wholesalers, and retailers should all benefit from a better understanding of consumer perceptions this study will provide to improve their sales and communications. Growing Green Industry Profits from an Emerging Market of Plantspeople J. Campbell, University of Georgia

Recently, the horticulture world has seen an influx of new plantspeople entering the marketplace. These new consumers are providing new challenges and opportunities for our industry. This project will provide insight and tools, developed from consumer research,

april 21 MNLA.BIZ

RESEARCH FOR THE REAL WORLD

Jim Calkins

Figure 1. The characterization of wood substrates for use in soilless media is one area of research that is being supported by Horticultural Research Institute (HRI) funding awarded in 2021

to equip horticulture industry stakeholders to better engage emerging audiences and convert them into lifelong buyers. Producing Practical And Actionable Solutions Fertility, population dynamics, and pollinator attractiveness of standard and “sterile” cultivars: Buddleia as a case study may inform the way

naturally present within different cultivars fruit that can suppress pathogen proliferation. Antifungal compound identification has the potential to feed into a biofungicide development pipeline, which will ultimately increase the availability of sustainable disease management tools for the nursery industry.

able management options. While the use of fungicides can be effective temporarily, the best long-term solution is sanitation. Therefore, it is essential to identify and eliminate sources of inoculum early during plant production. This research will evaluate methods for efficiently detecting Phytophthora spp. on nursery-grown plants and investigate factors that may affect detection.

forward for our national industry

Characterization and Modeling of Physical and

R. Contreras, Oregon State

Hydraulic Properties of Wood Substrates

Many plants are grown not just for their beauty but for their ecosystem services, particularly pollinator attraction. But plants such as butterfly bush have escaped cultivation in some regions such that they have been banned. To address this, breeders have developed new cultivars with the goal of reduced fertility. This project aims to answer several questions: 1) What happens to pollinator attraction with reduced fertility? 2) What is the fertility of a suite of modern cultivars compared to old classics? 3) Can we use population modeling to establish a “safe” threshold of fertility?

B. Jackson, North Carolina State University

Developing Native Plants for Sustainable Green

The demand for soilless substrates continues to increase as ornamental/floriculture markets grow and as more traditionally field-grown crops are transitioning to soilless growing systems. As a result, global soilless substrate demand is projected to increase by 240% by 2050. To meet this significant demand, wood products will play a major role in future substrate formulations. After decades of scientific research and grower trials, we have a better understanding of how wood substrates can be used, but more indepth evaluations and characterizations are needed to advance the use (and confidence) in these new materials. The aim of this work is to provide in-depth characterizations and testing of commercially available engineered wood components.

Industry Production

A holly jolly Christmas starts with disease-free hollies F. Hand, Ohio State University

An emergent fungal fruit rot disease is severely affecting deciduous holly production in Midwestern and Eastern U.S. States. This project will screen deciduous holly cultivars for disease susceptibility, to provide growers with selection recommendations when establishing new plantings. Additionally, this project aims to identify antifungal compounds 30

MNLA.BIZ april 21

Y. Sun, Utah State

The introduction of novel native plants for landscaping has the potential to infuse new energy into the Green Industry. Utah ranks in the top 10 states for vascular plant species diversity. Utah State University has capitalized on this diversity by establishing a program (Sego Supreme™) for selecting and introducing plants native to Utah and the Great Basin for use in water-efficient landscaping. Many natives are not used in the industry because they are so difficult to propagate, produce, and/or maintain. This project aims to develop snowbrush ceanothus (Ceanothus velutinus), a broadleaf evergreen shrub, for sustainable horticultural production and landscape use.

Early detection of Phytophthora spp. on nursery-grown ornamental plants

➽ TO COMMENT ON THIS RESEARCH UPDATE,

S. N. Jeffers, Clemson University

suggest research topics of interest, or pass along a

Diseases caused by Phytophthora species are a constant and substantial problem in U.S. nurseries and greenhouses with few sustain-

piece of research-based information that might be of interest to your industry colleagues, please email us at Research@MNLA.biz.

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www.jeffbelzerchevy.com Version # 4 Version # 4 Version # 4

Document Name GMC1-12-FCO-03178-302_v4.indd Document Name GMC1-12-FCO-03178-302_v4.inddLinked Graphics Art Director Control Document Name GMC1-12-FCO-03178-302_v4.indd 12KTFLCHEV032.tif Linked GraphicsRGB

Retail Planning Flyer Control Art Jarret Petsch •Mechjpetsch@jeffbelzer.com Scale 100 8.75”952-469-7063 x 11.25” Bleed Chevy CopyDirector Writer TBD

RGB

12KTFLCHEV032.tif RGB HD CC with Dump_psd.psd Linked GraphicsRGB Control Art Director 11CHSL00054.jpg RGB Mech TBD Copy Print Scale Scale 100 12KTFLCHEV032.tif RGB None BusinessCentral_KO.ai ProjWriter Mgr csenn HD CC with Dump_psd.psd RGB 11CHSL00054.jpg RGB Scale Please 100 GM_business_choice.ai TBD Copy Writer Jeff Belzer Lakeville,Mech MN. call the Commercial Department at 952-469-4444. Print Scale None BusinessCentral_KO.ai csenn Proj Stock None HD CC with Dump_psd.psd RGB Acct Mgr Svc kdenmark cube_0758.jpg RGB GM_business_choice.ai Print Scale Trim None 8.5” x 11” BusinessCentral_KO.ai csenn Proj Mgr Family_shot cube_exprss_slvrdo_a6.tif RGB All Rebates & incentives to dealer, must qualify for same, prices subject to change. Stock None Live None 8.25” x 10.75” kdenmark Acct Mgr Svc afinnan cube_0758.jpg RGB Folded Size Prod GM_business_choice.ai RoundStep_3in_Chevy_Silverado.jpg RGB Family_shot cube_exprss_slvrdo_a6.tif RGB Stock Live None 8.25” x 10.75” kdenmark Acct Svc cube_0758.jpg RGB Tonneau_Chevy.jpg RGB Folded Size None afinnan Mgr TBD 1 RoundStep_3in_Chevy_Silverado.jpg RGB Finishing Buyer To qualify, vehicles must be None used in day-to-day operations of your business and notArtProd solely for transportation purposes. Must provide Family_shot cube_exprss_slvrdo_a6.tif RGB Family_Option_a3.tif RGB Tonneau_Chevy.jpg RGB None Folded Size None afinnan ProdBuyer Mgr TBD RoundStep_3in_Chevy_Silverado.jpg RGB 4320G_cs.tif CMYK Finishing Art Family_Option_a3.tif RGB Colors Spec’d 4C TBD Copy Edit Visit gmbusinesschoice.com or your Chevrolet or GMC dealer for details. Tonneau_Chevy.jpg RGB 4320Gss.tif CMYK 4320G_cs.tif CMYK Finishing None TBD Art Buyer Colors Spec’d Family_Option_a3.tif RGB 4C TBD 1PROCS.tif CMYK Copy Edit nminieri/pm Mac with Business Central Special Instr. 4320Gss.tif CMYK 4320G_cs.tif CMYK 1PROSS.tif CMYK Colors Spec’d 1PROCS.tif CMYK 4C Business Central TBD CopyMac Edit nminieri/pm Special Instr. with 4320Gss.tif CMYK BasePkg_ss.tif CMYK Publications None 1PROSS.tif CMYK 1PROCS.tif CMYK 12KTFLCHEV021.tif RGB Mac nminieri/pm with Business Central Special Instr. None BasePkg_ss.tif CMYK Publications

CONTENT CONTENT CONTENT

Job Description 8.75” Chevy Retail Planning Flyer 11.25” Bleed Trim 8.5” x x11” 8.75” x 11.25” Chevrolet, 50Bleed & Cedar, Box 965, Trim Live 8.5” 8.25”x x11” 10.75”

Publications None

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Last Modified 4-17-2012 3:37 PM 4-17-2012 3:37 PMDate Last Modified Printer Output 4-17-2012 3:37 PMDate Last Modified TITAN 4-20-2012 1:48 PM Printer Output

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11CHSL00054.jpg

840 ppi 270 ppi 840 ppi 1089ppippi 270 840 ppi 1089 ppi 270 ppi 1089ppi, ppi461 ppi 464 1112 ppi461 ppi 464 ppi, 421 1112ppippi 464 ppi, 419 ppi ppi 461 ppi 421 1112ppi, ppi 844 419 ppi 1708 ppi 421 ppi 1006 ppi,1708 1004ppippi 844 ppi, 419 ppi 1418 ppi, 1004 1482 ppi ppi 1006 ppi, 844ppi, ppi,858 1708ppippi 860 1418 ppi, 1482 ppi 1006ppi, ppi,605 1004 ppi 606 860 ppi, 858 ppi ppi 1418ppi, ppi,820 1482 ppi 821 ppi 606 ppi, 605 ppi 860 ppi, 858 ppi 3169 ppi820 821 ppi, ppi 606 ppi, 2431 ppi 605 ppi 3169 ppi 821 ppi, 820 ppi 2431 ppi 3169 ppi 2431 ppi

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CMYK RGB RGB CMYK RGB RGB RGB

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d v c w y c i o h y t

–

AND WAIT It’s an Emergency!! Hurry Up…

… ASAP

Common Tree Healthcare Scenarios This article was originally published in Michigan Nursery & Landscape Association’s The Michigan Landscape magazine, www.MNLA.org. Dr. David L. Roberts The Plant Doctor, LLC All photos courtesy of Dr. David L. Roberts

april 21 MNLA.BIZ

TREE HEALTH

or many years, I have been asked to evaluate the health of trees and accompanying landscapes at locations with widely ranging inputs and care (Photos 1 & 2). These requests for my assistance most commonly originate from Condominium HOAs (Homeowners Associations), Condominium/ Apartment Management Companies, Retail Stores/ Shopping Mall Managers, Federal and Local Government facilities, Private Property Owners, and, of course, Arborists/Landscapers. It is often the case, excepting professional plant professionals, that my assistance is needed ASAP (As Soon As Possible).

Photo 1

Certain incidents may have triggered the need for a rapid response. Perhaps a dead tree from an adjacent woodland fell on a condo unit and now everyone in the community is worried about trees falling on their own units or onto paths used for exercise and nature lovers. Perhaps a perfectly healthy-looking tree split or simply fell over during a storm (Photo 3). Perhaps a Master Gardener or Tree Hugger joined the Tree Committee and has brought attention to several declining trees. Perhaps a construction project is planned at an upscale outdoor mall and there is a need to protect existing trees from construction damage. Sometimes I am informed that a Board meeting is scheduled for this Thursday when they will discuss the bids for landscape and tree work for the coming year, so, “Could you visit the site and write a report by tomorrow or Wednesday?” Or perhaps, the condominium owners or private

property owners are dissatisfied with the results of their expenditures into plant healthcare. The care of trees, or more commonly the lack thereof, often involves procrastination, which may suddenly devolve into panic attacks. The urgency for prompt assistance occasionally reminds me of some quotes from rather famous people. “Never put off for tomorrow what

you can do today.” – Thomas Jefferson

“Never put off till tomorrow what may

be done the day after tomorrow just as well…” – Mark Twain

“Only put off until tomorrow what you are will-

Photo 3

ing to die having left undone.” – Pablo Picasso

“Anything worth putting off is worth abandon-

ing altogether.” – Epictetus

“If it weren’t for the last minute, nothing would

get done.” – Rita Mae Brown

Photo 2

NEWS & NOTES

MNLA.BIZ april 21

OSHA Launches Program to Protect High-Risk Workers from Coronavirus, Focuses on Employers That Retaliate Against Workers with Safety Concerns

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Photo 4A

Photo 4B

Following are several common and recurring tree health management scenarios. All of the following scenarios are factual events in slightly different venues and aspects. The names have been changed, obviously, and some of the details have been embellished, if ever so slightly. Scenario #1: “Wants Bid Evaluation Fast” “Hi Mr. Tree Doctor, Trees B Us has managed the health of our trees in our condominium complex for the last four years. Most of the residents in our association are happy with the service but they seem somewhat expensive, and we wonder if we are being taken for a ride. We’ve asked three

other companies to submit bids. Because some of the companies want to begin treatments next week, we need your help fast. Can you please visit our condo complex and evaluate these bids for us ASAP? Thanks a bunch!” – Catherine B. Frugal, March 12, 2020 Discussion Obviously, it is difficult to assess bids for several reasons. I find that bids range in price all over the map for the same service. I’ve seen bids vary by as much as two to three times the cost of other bids, often for the same work. I make it my policy to never evaluate or assign costs to services; we live in a Capitalist society and I would never want to compare or place companies in bidding wars. One company might charge more because they do a better job while another company might charge less because they will spend far less time on site. Of considerable importance, depending on the time of year as was the

1 & 2: Over many years, I have been asked to provide healthcare advice on very diverse landscapes, ranging from those that have significant investment (Photo 1) to those with lesser inputs (Photo 2). They are all important for our industry as we provide the services with pride as professionals. 3: The urgency for our professional assistance may be due to a plethora of issues whether it be the need to evaluate bids, a sudden awareness of declining or dead trees, or a catastrophic event. This large oak tree near Ann Arbor, Michigan collapsed from a butt rot during a rainstorm (wind velocity was not significant). Note healthy appearing full-foliaged branches, which did not disclose any serious issues with the health of the tree. 4A & 4B: We as plant professionals are often asked to provide bids in a rushed schedule hours or days before we begin each new season of landscape maintenance. Deciduous trees and shrubs are very difficult to assess health-wise during dormancy while evergreen/conifers are rather easy to identify specific pests and diseases year-round. The conifers in Photo 4B exhibited Diplodia Tip Blight, Dothistroma Needle Blight and an incidence of Pine Root Collar Weevil (tree on left).

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in 2020. The program’s

the flexibility to amend

workers deserve a

Services; Hardwood

Northwoods Carpentry LLC; TK Property Care;

april 21 MNLA.BIZ

TREE HEALTH

Photo 4C

Photo 4D

situation in this actual event (March), it can be difficult to evaluate the health of deciduous trees and shrubs for the incidence of diseases and pests (Photo 4A). In general, I find that conifers are easy to assess almost any time of year (Photo 4B). Some companies may identify the primary tree species present on site and simply provide the standard treatments for those species as they might for their other accounts. When I am asked to evaluate tree health and/or assess proposals/bids, I am inclined to provide very detailed assessments so that the requestor can make informed decisions. In this scenario, when I was approached in March, I expressed my reservations about definitive recommendations for all plants on site and offered to visit in March (for conifer assessment for year 2020) and again in mid to late summer for deciduous assessments (in preparation for year 2021). They accepted my proposal. When I arrived in late July, I witnessed a much different scene than in March (Photos 4C & 4D). A typical dilemma now presented itself using the apple scab disease example as noted in Photos 4C and 4D. Apparently different species of crabapple were installed – some are resistant to scab (fungal disease) and some are susceptible. There are several options for managing just this one disease at this condominium site. Most Costly: Catalog and tag all crabapples according to susceptibility; treat only those needing treatment. This option is rather time consuming and tedious. Less Costly: Treat all trees as though they are susceptible. Least Costly: Treat none of the trees. If property owners can tolerate defoliation of susceptible varieties staring in July and August, scab usually causes little harm to crabapples in the long term. Defrayed Cost: If property owners/ HOAs can be persuaded to create an annual tree budget, susceptible varieties and other problem trees can be gradually replaced or addressed over time. When I evaluate trees at certain sites, I try to present all options so that residents/ HOAs must decide what is important to them and what is within their budget. Hence, I try to prioritize the issues at each site from a tree health perspective. One of the mistakes I see with Arborists and Landscapers is that some recommend treatments for every itsy-bitsy issue, even when there might not be a rationale for it (Photo 4E); as such, they often price themselves out of the market and/or provide the stimulus for clients to seek bids. Consider that tar spot on maple is not nearly as serious as Diplodia Tip Blight on Pines or as lethal as Oak Wilt. Prioritization builds client confidence for our services. Recall how appreciative we are when our auto mechanic tells us, “Naw, your brakes don’t need to be replaced yet, they still have 40% wear on them.” Scenario #2: “Need Advice Quick!” “Hi Dr. Roberts, Git Er Cut Tree Service has maintained our trees for

Photo 4E

4C & 4D: When arriving at the site in Photos 4A & 4B in late July, assessment of deciduous problems was rather straight forward compared to the dormant season. Like many other locations in Michigan, the fungal disease, apple scab, was present, and many trees were already exhibiting significant leaf loss (4D & Inset). Some of the crabapple trees established here years ago were scab-resistant varieties (4C) while many other varieties were scab-susceptible (4D). The dilemma for us as plant healthcare providers as well as for the HOA is how to manage the problem. Do we treat all as if they are susceptible or do we catalog and treat only those that are susceptible an onerous task? Or do we not treat any crabapples and gradually replace scab-susceptible with scab-resistant varieties as needed? 38

MNLA.BIZ april 21

4E: Not easily assessed during the dormant period (March) was the incidence of Trellis Rust (TR) on ornamental pears at this site. This photo shows a low incidence of TR, which would generally not support the need for treatments. However, we could also justify treatments if we want to prevent a buildup of the disease over time. Like many other issues, management of TR is really a judgement call that should be discussed with the property owners or HOA.

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TREE HEALTH

Photo 5

the last four years. Whenever we have a tree problem or one of our community members notices a problem with the trees, Git Er Cut always seems to want to cut them down. They offer us great deals on removal costs, but we wonder if we’re doing the right thing. Our landscape is getting kinda sparse. With the spring upon us and the urgency for renewing their contract, can you advise us ASAP? Thanks!” – Fern Stumper, HOA President, Barren Flats Condominium Association Discussion: Well… in our industry, many companies try to do all things whether it be snow removal, lawn

service, tree removal, tree care, and landscape maintenance. With that being said, many companies specialize in certain services or prefer to do certain services. For example, some companies devote most of their resources to tree trimming and tree removals, possibly with a small side division of plant healthcare. Obviously, their forte is tree cutting of some sort and will likely advance their expertise in that arena, if at all possible, as their business model to assure continuing income. Some of our clients do not want to invest long term in the health of trees and would rather have them removed for a one-time cost or avoid planting them altogether (Photo 5). Other clients will want to save every tree they

5: This common area at “Barren Flats Condominiums” is named “Central Park”. If you’ve ever been to New York City’s famous Central Park, it bears little resemblance. Git Er Cut Tree Service is running out of work at this site. 6A & 6B: After paying for needlecast sprays for several years, Mr. Picea wondered why his trees were still declining. As it turned out, the timing of the treatments was wrong. Hopefully, adjustments to treatment timing will reverse the decline and inhibit the development of dead branches.

MNLA.BIZ april 21

possibly can. We need to be able to read the clues of our clients’ true desires. Scenario #3: “Name Dropping/Dissatisfied with Treatments” Hi Dr. Roberts, Joe at Can’t Hardly Tree Service recommended I contact you. If you recall, we had you out five years ago to provide advice on an Oak Wilt. Your advice worked out great, and we have had no recurrence of that nasty disease. Now, I’m reaching out to you again. Our spruce trees are declining from Rhizosphaera needlecast (Photos 6A & 6B), at least that’s what we’ve been told; we’ve had another company treat our trees for several years, and the trees just don’t seem to

7A, 7B, 7C, 7D: Most of the alcoves at this condo site contain either a Serviceberry or a Magnolia. However, in 7A, a Siberian Elm is emerging into the skyline and will eventually crowd out the Magnolia. In 7B, the Serviceberry will eventually be crowded in the front by a Norway maple and in the back by a large maple (having lost its leaves in the fall). Both instances may be volunteer trees that residents allowed to grow or perhaps were planted. Either way, crowding and sidewalk upheaval and foundation problems may develop with these eventual large trees. In 7C, a typical, overgrown, competitive condition has been allowed to occur at this site; note a Colorado Blue spruce is trying to survive by reaching for sunlight (center). In 7D, these arbs were planted to provide a dense screen to hide this utility box. Unfortunately, Bambi has exposed the utility.

be improving. We are investing a substantial amount of our budget into our landscape and trees and would like them to be healthy. It appears to be a losing battle with the spruces. The third treatment is scheduled for next week, and I’m not sure it would be worthwhile. Can you help? – Mike Picea, Pine Tree Ridge Road, Conifer, Michigan, August 5, 2020 Discussion: When Mike contacted me, he asked me to visit his property and assess the situation. Upon my arrival at Mr. Mike’s residence, I immediately determined that the primary problem was, in fact, Rhizosphaera needlecast. However, I couldn’t understand why there was so much needlecast if trees were being treated regularly over the last several years. I asked Mike which fungicides were being applied; he told me, and the chemicals applied seemed reasonable. When I queried Mike on the treatment schedule, he replied that the trees are receiving three treatments per year: one in June, one in July, and one in August. I thought the treatment schedule rather odd, so, I asked Mike which company was doing the treatments. Mike was rather hesitant to disclose that information but finally said that when he complained about the lack of control, the company proclaimed they were following “Dr. Roberts’ Protocols”. While I have conveyed in lectures and publications that Rhizosphaera can attack spruce trees at almost any time during the warm season, the primary period of infection is in the spring. An adjustment of the treatment schedule should yield better results. Scenario #4: “Right Tree, Right Place” Dear David, I am with the Ah Ah Ah American Condominium Management Company of Michigan (a good name for 1st place in the phone book!). We manage quite a few condominium sites; many of the older ones established 25+ years ago have become overgrown, perhaps because of the crowded plantings during development many years ago and the lack of care during the ensuing years. Would you mind visiting some of our sites and evaluate what we should do about fixing and restoring the landscapes? – Etta Wright-Place, Sales Coordinator, Ah Ah Ah ACMCM Discussion: Or “Right Tree, Wrong Place”. Or “Wrong Tree, Right Place”. We often encounter

landscape designs that when installed several decades ago seemed to fit the bill. However, as those landscapes mature, the trees can outgrow their original sites and now there is a need for replanting, restoration, or rejuvenation (Photos 7A-7D). At one condo site, the buildings were designed with an alcove in between two attached units (Photos 7A & 7B). Typically, as is common with landscape architectural designs, the trees are repetitive throughout the landscape. At this location, either Magnolia or Serviceberry were utilized in the alcove (Photo 7A, Magnolia & 7B, Serviceberry in back) as smaller sized trees for smaller spaces. Lack of maintenance on the Magnolias has led to establishment of Magnolia scale and sooty mold. Of interest, however, is that other trees were planted or became established as volunteer trees. In 7A, a Siberian Elm is quickly overshadowing the Magnolia, and in 7B a maple (lost leaves in fall) is topping out over the serviceberry (reddish, back corner), while a Norway Maple will soon over-arch the Serviceberry in front. Both the elm and maple may lift sidewalks and cause foundation damage. At another site, a very common occurrence at many locations, trees have outgrown their sites and are crowding one another (Photo 7C). It is sometimes difficult to provide advice on these situations when residents have no preference for particular species and/or are hesitant to remove any trees to decrease the competition. In some cases, I simply recommend that they be left alone to “fight it out”, as is the case with similar situations in nature. In other circumstances, some species of trees are not optimal in some locations (Photo 7D); while arborvitae can make good “evergreen” screens for property boundaries or to hide utilities, they are nonetheless susceptible to wildlife. Better for this particular case would be “Green Giant” arbs (if space allows), which are less prone to attract Bambi damage than other varieties, or another evergreen species altogether. Scenario #5: “What Trees?” Hey Dr. Dave, I’ve got a favor to ask. Would you be willing to visit a gated community and evaluate the health of the trees there? The residences are rather upscale with nicely maintained landscapes. But the trees have not received much attention over the last 30 years since the community was developed by Exquisitely Pricey Development Corporation. Many of the trees are in decline, and some have outgrown their allotted space, encroach-

Photo 6A

Photo 6B

Photo 7A

Photo 7B

Photo 7C

Photo 7D

april 21 MNLA.BIZ

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GILI

GILI is a unique leadership development program custom designed with a Green Industry focus. It is open to a select cohort each year. The course meets 10 times during the year, one time per month February to December (except May). The curriculum is founded on the power skills (referred to by many as “soft skills”) needed for leaders in today’s workplace, tailord for the MNLA community.

HOW TO CHOOSE A GILI CANDIDATE First of all, let’s define a few terms. CANDIDATE/STUDENT: The person who attends GILI. SPONSOR: The person responsible for the financial decision to send an employee to the Leadership Institute. DIRECT MANAGER: The person who gives the most direct oversight to the candidate’s day-to-day job. In some cases, this person may also be the Sponsor.

Choosing a candidate from your company should be done carefully. Here are some tips for selecting the right person.

Sponsors: Meet with key managers of your company and explain the program. Ask managers to nominate someone who they believe has the willingness and readiness to focus on developing their leadership management skills.

Candidate Success Factors: • Candidate is willing to learn about themself and willing to practice and apply new perspectives between classes, even though it may seem uncomfortable at times. • Candidate must be willing to take extra time over and above attending class and their position will allow for this. • Candidate is disciplined enough to show up to class each month and arrive on time. • Candidate is open to engaging with other students, offering up suggestions, and sharing information. Does not have a problem with participating in groups. • Candidate has a track record of being committed, seen by following through with duties from beginning to end. Candidates that supervise others (even a small number) are preferred. Please explain why the candidate is qualified to attend if he/she has a position that does not include a supervisory component. Exceptions have been made.

Sponsors and/or Managers: Meet with employee to explain the program and ask the employee these questions: • Do you believe you can handle such a program on top of your workload? • Are you willing and able to focus on the course load as well as take on a project (a substantial deliverable worked on throughout the GILI year)? • How can I help to make this a reality for you? (In other words, is there something that has to be modified for their job in order for this person to take the course?)

When Considering Candidates: If the job position is such that the individual must call in last minute unable to attend, please reconsider or redesign the position’s expectation. This course requires consistent attendance. Only one absence is allowed.

MORE INFO & APPLICATION FORM AT WWW.MNLA.BIZ/LEADERSHIP. For questions contact Jon Horsman, MNLA Associate Director: 651-633-4987 or jon@mnla.biz.

april 21 MNLA.BIZ

COMMITTEE OPENINGS

MAKE A

DIFFERENCE

iStock.com/MariaGisina

The MNLA Board of Directors forms committees to carry out the strategic direction of the organization. Below is a list of the committees with current openings, and a summary of their mission. Are you interested in learning more about the committee’s task or time commitment?

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

Staff Liaisons: Forrest Cyr & Cassie Larson

Staff Liaison: Cassie Larson

Chair: Tim Malooly, Water in Motion

Chair: Jim Shimon, Willow River Company

• Deliberate and recommend policy

• Creates a career development model

positions; set and implement strategy;

to assist with green industry employee

and represent the collective interests

retention and promote employee

of MNLA members in legislative and

advancement.

regulatory affairs.

COMMUNICATION & TECHNOLOGY

NETWORKING

MEMBERSHIP

Staff Liaison: Jon Horsman

Staff Liaison: Sue Flynn

Staff Liaison: Mary Dunn

Chair: Diana Grundeen, Trio Landscaping

Chair: Matt Mallas, Hedberg Supply

Chair: Van Cooley, Malmborg’s Garden Center

& Greenhouse

• Make MNLA a critical information hub in

• Organize member-based business-to-

areas such as business trends, marketing

business networks that promote profit

expertise and consumer insight; increase

opportunities for members; foster small

prospective members via phone calls and

the value of member communication

group networking among members;

in-person visits.

resources; spur greater social media

organize cross-industry networks between

activity among MNLA members.

MNLA members and related industries.

EDUCATION & CERTIFICATION

• Hands-on outreach to members and

WATER RESOURCES

Staff Liaisons: Sue Flynn & Cassie Larson

Staff Liaisons: Cassie Larson

Chair: M ike Heger, Ambergate Horticultural

Chair: Tim Malooly, Water in Motion, Inc.

Consulting • Overall education program strategy and

For more information, contact a board member, a

• Assures water remains practically available

committee chair, an MNLA

for use in the landscape and to protect

staff member, or to submit a

decision-making; develop online learning

the interests of member practitioners in

volunteer application online,

modules.

the design, installation, maintenance and

visit www.MNLA.biz.

management of water in the landscape.



MNLA.BIZ april 21

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MNLA Foundation Research Information Director

april 21 MNLA.BIZ

(Photo Credits: James Calkins)

DEICING SALTS

Figures 1a & 1b. Examples of excessive deicing salt applications on a city street and in the form of a pile of salt, one of many in this location, in a commercial parking lot located in a Twin Cities suburb; while the need to maintain safe roads and other hardscapes during the winter months is undeniable, the excessive, and sometimes negligent, application of deicing salts in response to fears about liability combined with a poor understanding of how much salt is actually needed and the science behind how deicing salts work are causing a variety of serious and growing environmental impacts in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and are degrading our groundwater resources; the quarter is included for the purpose of scale.

AS I WRITE THIS ARTICLE, SPRING IS IN THE AIR AND OFFICIALLY ARRIVES IN JUST 10 DAYS! Yes, spring arrives at 4:37 a.m. (CDT) on March 20,

2021. Still, although it may not happen this year given the current weather trends, three of the top seven snowiest months in the Twin Cities metropolitan area since meteorological records have been kept have been in March (43%). As a consequence, even though the winter of 2020-21 will soon be a memory, snow and ice management are still potential priorities from a public safety perspective for at least a few more weeks. And long after the snow and ice season has passed, the impacts of the deicers used to manage snow and ice during the winter months on plants and the environment will persist. Let’s take a few minutes to remind ourselves of the negative impacts of deicing salts on plants and the environment and how these impacts can be minimized. Although there have been advances in application methods that can reduce the amount of deicers that are used to manage snow and ice, the use of deicing salts remains the

MNLA.BIZ april 21

primary method of reducing traffic accidents and slip-and-fall incidences that threaten public safety and commerce. Sodium chloride (NaCl) remains the primary deicer of choice because of its effectiveness and low cost. As a result, it is estimated that 20 million tons of deicing salts are applied to roads in the United States each year and another 15 million tons are applied to parking lots, sidewalks, and driveways on an annual basis. Nationally, this amounts to about 224 pounds of salt for every American. While deicing salts account for the majority of the chloride that ends up in the environment (about 42%, with some estimates as high as 75%), it is estimated that fertilizers account for about 23% and wastewater treatment facilities account for about 22% as a result of salt used in water softeners and other wastewater inputs, with the balance coming from a variety of sources including irrigation with saline water. Keeping the amounts of deicing salts that are applied during the winter months in mind, it is also important to understand that sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-) ions are not broken down and accumulate in the environment unless the problem is transported downstream, leached into groundwater with

human health concerns, or diluted by fresh water which may be temporary. As a result, research in Minnesota has found that 78% of the salt that enters a watershed stays there and an increasing number of lakes, streams, wetlands, and groundwater resources are becoming impaired as a result of increasing salt concentrations. In short, salt is accumulating in the environment and poses a growing threat to ecosystems and human health. Impacts of Excess Sodium and Chloride Both sodium and chloride are toxic to plants and chloride (which is a component in all deicing salts (e.g., NaCl, CaCl2, MgCl2, KCl) is also especially toxic to aquatic life. From a plant perspective, damage from deicing salts can be caused by a complicated mix of direct and indirect effects of increased salt levels in the soil as a result of salt that is transported from the sites of application in runoff and salt spray. The negative impacts of excess sodium include: • sodium toxicity when taken up by sodium sensitive plants, • osmotic effects that prevent water uptake by plant roots or movement of water out of root tissue causing dehydration,

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DEICING SALTS

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• sodium-mediated nutrient deficiencies or imbalances in plants, • elevated (high) soil pH resulting in reduced availability of phosphate and micronutrients like iron and other micronutrients and subsequent deficiencies of these nutrients, • and the dispersion of clay and silt particles that damages soil structure and increases the potential for compaction and impaired drainage and aeration. Excessive amounts of chloride in the soil can also reduce water uptake and cause nutrient deficiencies. And when excessive amounts of chloride are taken up by plants, the chloride accumulates in the leaves where it impacts photosynthesis and causes stunting, chlorosis, scorching, and death (necrosis) of leaf tissue and premature leaf drop and defoliation. Chloride toxicity typically begins at the leaf tips and progresses down the leaf blade. High levels of sodium and chloride in the soil can also impact beneficial soil microorganisms and all of these effects can have significant and negative implications for plant growth and performance. In addition to the negative effects of elevated levels of salt in the soil, salt spray can damage plant tissues, causing injury and death of the foliage on evergreen species, killing dormant buds and dieback of branch tips resulting in growth dominated by witches’ brooms caused by a proliferation of shoots from adventitious buds just below the killed tissues, and even plant death. The damage to sensitive plants caused by salt spray is typically the most pronounced on plants located along streets that are treated with road salt, and especially along highways where higher traffic speeds result in increased salt spray and is proportional to the distance from the roadway where the salt spray originates. And finally, in addition to its effects on plants and the environment, salt is highly corrosive and can damage pavements and other infrastructure subject to corrosion and vehicles. Chloride Versus Chlorophyll MNLA has had ongoing advocacy for legislative support of salt applicator training and certification as a vehicle for reduced salt use with liability protections for reputable/ conscientious applicators. With the level of concern about public safety and environmental issues related to the use of deicing agents including road salt, it is timely and appropriate to highlight a recent article written by

Dr. Gary Johnson (Professor Emeritus, UMN Forest Resources, University of Minnesota) – Chloride Versus Chlorophyll: The Battle Between 85 MPH and Trees. I’m sure many of you know Dr. Johnson as he is a longtime friend and supporter of the Minnesota green industry from a research and tree selection, production, and management perspective. Although the focus of the article is trees, which is not surprising for an article written by an urban forester, I would argue that the focus is broader given that the information provided applies to all landscape plants. Described as a primer, the article covers the basics including the effects of deicing salts on plant and soil health and how to mitigate their effects. The article is a quick and fun read that reminds us of the challenges of balancing public safety with plant and ecosystem health. From a mitigation perspective, Dr. Johnson discusses the pros and cons of four primary tactics: 1. Selecting salt tolerant species 2. Respecting the 60-foot damage zone (the zone wherein most of the damage caused by deicing salts carried in salt spray and runoff occurs) 3. Physical protection 4. Alternative deicing products and snow and ice management scenarios Although he cautions against relying on salt tolerant species as the sole solution because a plant being salt tolerant does not mitigate the broader effects of deicing salts on soil, and ultimately plant, health and because salt tolerance is a relative term as it can change with age and other factors, Gary still recommends several references that address salt damage and minimizing deicing salt injury to landscape plants including the use of salt tolerant species. These resources include Trees and Shrubs that Tolerate Saline Soils and Salt Spray Drift (Virginia Cooperative Extension), Selection of Salt Tolerant Trees (Michigan State University), Selection of Salt Tolerant Plants (University of Wisconsin Extension), Minimizing De-Icing Salt Injury to Trees (University of Minnesota Extension), and Salt damage to Landscape Plants (Purdue Extension). With respect to the 60-foot damage zone, Dr. Johnson reports that most of the damage caused by saline runoff and salt spray occurs within 60 feet of the road edge and recommends the use of salt tolerant plants in such areas. Other research suggests that improving drainage, leaching, reducing evaporation, and

soil amendment can help mitigate elevated salt levels in the soil. For example, eliminating compaction to improve water infiltration and drainage, irrigating with low salinity water to leach salts below the root zone, amending soils with gypsum and organic matter to improve soil structure and promote cation exchange, and mulching to prevent soil crusting, improve water infiltration, and reduce evaporation can help mitigate saline soils. Physical protection using snow fences located upwind of landscape plantings and wrapping plants with burlap or tarps can help protect plants from salt spray but do not protect plants from salty runoff. And as Dr. Johnson opines, do we really want to look at a landscape wrapped in burlap for nearly half of the year? The choice is yours or up to your clients. And last on Dr. Johnson’s list, using alternative deicers that are less damaging to plants and alternative methods of snow and ice management are also options. More on some of these methods are described below. Best Practices from an Environmental Perspective In addition to Dr. Johnson’s article, an article

with the title Hold the Salt published in the Minnesota Conservation Volunteer ( January– February 2020) also highlights the concerns about road salt use from an environmental perspective. The article also highlights the effectiveness of training for snow and ice management practitioners to share the results of ongoing research and new technologies that can help reduce salt use. The article also points out that Minnesota is the first and only state to develop a Statewide Chloride Management Plan. Currently in draft form and undergoing final revisions based on public comment, the plan outlines the impacts of chloride on Minnesota’s water resources and relied on a collaborative effort to find a balance between clean water and salt use to create a plan for effectively managing salt use to protect Minnesota’s water resources in a responsible and strategic manner. It contains much more information than has been discussed here and is worth reading. Given the public safety and liability concerns associated with the accumulation of snow and ice, it is unlikely that the use of deicing salts will be abandoned any time soon. As MNLA professionals who offer snow and

april 21 MNLA.BIZ

(Photo Credits: James Calkins)

DEICING SALTS

Figure 2a & 2b. Salt damage to plants caused by elevated salt levels in the soil and salt spray; damage to eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana) caused by salt stress caused by salt accumulation in the soil and severe witches brooming on a bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa) as a result of the dormant buds being killed and shoot dieback year after year as a consequence of salt spray from a nearby freeway.

ice management services are, however, well aware, there are best management practices that can be used to minimize salt use and the negative effects of deicing salts on the environment. For example: • Use snow fences and planted windbreaks/snow catches to prevent drifting and reduce snow accumulation on paved surfaces to reduce snow management requirements. • Shovel, snow blow, or plow early, often, and well. • Apply deicers at the proper rate; about a cup of deicing salt is sufficient for a 20-foot driveway or 10 sidewalk squares and there should be about 3" between individual salt particles; better yet, use a calibrated spreader. • Do not apply sodium chloride (NaCl) when temperatures are below 15 degrees Fahrenheit because it does not work well at such temperatures. • Use the right deicer; calcium chloride (CaCl2) and magnesium chloride (MgCl2) work at lower temperatures than sodium chloride and are safer for plants when used properly but can still damage plants when used on a regular basis; calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) is another option that is safer, but much more expensive. • Consider pretreatment before a snow or ice event to prevent bonding of 54

MNLA.BIZ april 21

•

snow and ice to pavements; although pretreatment, which usually involves a brine solution, can be very effective and can significantly reduce the amount of deicers used, timing is critical and failure increases costs. Sweep up excess deicing salt after the pavement has dried and before it is carried away by subsequent runoff. When appropriate, use coarse sand or other materials that can increase traction, but remember that these materials can also impact water quality; like excess salt, sweep up these materials once the pavement has dried. Consider permeable pavements that are proving to reduce water pooling and remove snow and ice meltwater from the pavement surface through infiltration, reducing refreeze and the need for deicers when freeze thaw occurs; this is in addition to the runoff and water quality benefits associated with permeable pavements. Alternative methods of managing snow and ice like heated pavements that melt snow and ice are also possibilities but are expensive and are generally cost-prohibitive and not suited to larger hardscapes like roads and parking lots. Become smart salter certified (https:// www.pca.state.mn.us/water/salt-applicators) and seek out the findings of

ongoing research focused on snow and ice management. Citations: Johnson, Gary. 2020. Chloride Versus Chlorophyll: The Battle Between 85 MPH and Trees. Tree IQ: The Minnesota Tree Inspector Quarterly Newsletter; Winter 2020. University of Minnesota Department of Forest Resources and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. http://www. mntreeinspector.info/2020-winter.html#chloride Sohn, Emily. 2020. Hold the Salt. Minnesota Conservation Volunteer 83(488):42-53. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 12 pages. https:// www.dnr.state.mn.us/mcvmagazine/issues/2020/ jan-feb/chloride.html Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. 2016. Twin Cities Metropolitan Area Chloride Management Plan. https://www.pca.state.mn.us/sites/default/ files/wq-iw11-06ff.pdf Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. 2020. Draft Statewide Chloride Management Plan. https:// www.pca.state.mn.us/water/draft-statewide-chloride-management-plan, https://www.pca.state. mn.us/sites/default/files/wq-s1-94.pdf U.S. Geological Survey. 2014. Urban Stream Contamination Increasing Rapidly Due to Road Salt. https://www.usgs.gov/news/urban-stream-contamination-increasing-rapidly-due-road-salt To comment on this research update, suggest research topics of interest, or pass along a piece of research-based information that might be of interest to your industry colleagues, please email us at Research@MNLA.biz.

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Effective Ways to Communicate in Business Today In this session, NEAL GLATT, CSP, ASM walks attendees through the communication changes and cultural shifts that drive them in the past, present, and future. Most importantly, attendees learn how to more effectively communicate with customers and employees to improve every key business metric and utilize better communication to thrive.

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Updates on Green Industry Careers Projects Paulette Sorenson MNLA Foundation Program Coordinator

The MNLA Foundation hosted a series of Career events in January and February. These events were built to illuminate MNLA members to the vast resources available to help them find employees and promote their company to the public sector. At the first event held January 27th, Tools to Recruit Employ-

ees, Tim O’Neill, Labor Market Analyst for Minnesota Dept. of Employment & Economic Development, presented specific data about the labor market in landscaping and other agriculture industry. Liz Jennings, Employer Engagement Specialist shared where nursery, landscape, and arborist business owners can go if they want personalized Labor Market Information (LMI) for their county. She also shared resources for employers at the DEED site, LMI help desk, and CareerForceMN sites. Check out the powerpoint they shared listing many available resources. The second event held February 16, Explore Careers in Landscape and Irrigation, was presented by Liz Jennings, CareerForceMN/Minnesota Department of Economic Development, Paulette Sorenson, MNLA Foundation, and a panel of MNLA members who shared insight about a typical day, how they train/ support employees and what they look for in applications. Thank you, Patrick Warden of Bachman’s, Jake Mathre of Conserva Irrigation and Jim Saybolt of Biota, for being a part of this event! Over 60 people signed up to learn more about careers. Our final event, Landscape and Irrigation Virtual Job Fair scheduled for February 25th, was unfortunately cancelled due to low registration. This was an introductory event which we had hoped to grow to a full-scale industry event in the future giving employers an opportunity to seek promising employees. We will continue to pursue opportunities to support and grow the green industry workforce.

RESOURCES FOR EMPLOYERS

Why Partner with www.minnesotaworks.net? • Free national database of job opportunities • Main tool from which local and national data is taken • Free job seeker counseling to help match with employers • Ability to search for resumes/jobs • Direct support for employers who use H2 Visa programs • Promotes via email and social media to a bank of jobseekers (estimated 2-300,000 names) • Internally, can help match jobs with employers based on the employer’s profile • Free webinars for employers and job seekers

https://www.minnesotaworks.net/ What MNLA members can do: Post positions on the National Labor Exchange https://www.careerforcemn.com/post-a-job

➽ TO LEARN MORE contact Paulette Sorenson at paulette@mnla.biz or visit www.mnla.biz.

MNLA.BIZ april 21

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Partner with the MNLA Foundation INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF THE GREEN INDUSTRY

Your investments to the MNLA Foundation have a real impact on getting students interested and involved in the green industry. Please partner with the Foundation this coming year to help make a greater impact for the good of your company and the green industry!

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RESEARCH & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS FUND Contribute to the Research & Workforce Development Partners Fund at a participating supplier. Your voluntary donation of ½ of 1% on purchases is used to grow a brighter future for the industry, supporting Research for the Real World, Career Development & Promotion, and Scholarships. Thanks to these Partner Suppliers: TM

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ONGOING!  Consider giving a gift through your

Estate Plan or giving a donation yearly at the time of your MNLA Business Member Dues Renewal.  Donate surplus materials to the MNLA Foundation Surplus Auctions.  Donate materials for student hands-on school agriculture projects.  Give a talk at your community high school or attend career fairs to spread the word about the green industry. Get involved today! Contact Paulette Sorenson at 651-633-4987 or email paulette@mnla.biz.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

Advocacy in 2021 Forrest Cyr

MNLA Director of Government Affairs

Minnesota’s Green Industry is a respected voice at the Minnesota State Capitol, advocating for pro-business, pro-environment policies to ensure that members of the green industry can effectively run their companies. In 2020, the goals of the government affairs team at the

Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) adapted to meet the needs of the industry in response to COVID-19 and economic strife, successfully navigating the many challenges facing the industry through direct advocacy of legislators and regulators. Additionally, the Minnesota Green Industry Political Action Committee (MGI-PAC) supported candidates for reelection statewide, with 93 percent of supported candidates winning reelection. In 2021, these efforts continue, and I encourage members to continue to engage in MNLA’s grassroots and political efforts. Working with a dedicated group of volunteer experts from a variety of different green industry specialty fields, the importance of the industry is known to legislators, stakeholders, and the public through sustained communication, advocacy, and networking. This visibility serves the members well and positions the Green Industry to succeed for years to come. To further strengthen our government affairs program, the MGI-PAC be a priority for the association’s membership and leadership. As MNLA’s government affairs team continues to work tirelessly to secure public policy victories for members throughout the state, sustained outreach and contact with legislative allies throughout the year should be a continued priority.

The PAC, through its bylaws, contributes to Minnesota legislative candidates on a non-partisan basis, supporting those who support the green industry in Minnesota. A strong, well-funded PAC, just like an engaged membership, demonstrates how invested the members of the green industry are, and how closely they watch policy decisions in Saint Paul. Individuals know that when giving their hardearned money to the PAC, their contributions will only go to candidates who are friends of the green industry. Our legislative successes, successfully advocating for the Green Industry’s stay-at-home exemption in 2020, and the increased visibility of the green industry demonstrates the current influence of the industry and MNLA. However, some priority issues remain a work-in-progress. Increased member participation in Green Industry advocacy is critical to future policy victories and industry success. We can do more to strengthen our advocacy outreach; advocacy is a year-round endeavor. Through both grassroots and electoral activities, Minnesota’s green industry can influence policy not just during legislative sessions, but throughout the calendar year. The Minnesota Green Industry PAC should be central to this effort. Participation in events like Day on the Hill, contributing to the MGIPAC, and building and maintaining strong relationships with elected officials should be priorities for those looking to get involved in public policy.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW YOUR INVOLVEMENT in advocacy can help your business and the green industry in Minnesota, contact Forrest Cyr at forrest@mnla.biz, or visit www.mnla.biz.

april 21 MNLA.BIZ

SHARE THE SCOOP!

Each month, the Scoop is mailed to every member company of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association. A portion of your annual dues covers your yearly subscription to our official publication, which is one of the most-loved benefits of MNLA membership. Because each company only receives one copy of the Scoop, it’s important to share the wealth! Make sure your employees are able to take advantage of the insights and information in this magazine by putting it in your company break-room, or directly into the hands of that employee you’d like to develop into a leader in your company.

Want to make the Scoop accessible to everyone in your company? Every month, we publish an online issue of the Scoop, using a leading web platform for magazines. This digital issue is available to all personnel of MNLA member companies. To utilize this member-only benefit, simply send us the email addresses for whomever in your company you would like to receive the Scoop. We then email the link directly to your employees’ inbox each month. In fact, our online issue is available a week before the hard copy of the magazine arrives. Your employees will be privy to the latest and greatest information!

➽ TO RECEIVE THE ONLINE SCOOP, email Lora Sondrol at lora@mnla.biz.

Photo credits: Left: Ida Jaros/Shutterstock.com. Middle: iStock.com/stevecoleimages. Right: iStock.com/amtitus.

MNLA.BIZ april 21

MNLA FOUNDATION Improving the Environment by Investing in Research and Education

PARTNERS FUND You are encouraged to participate in the MNLA Foundation Research & Workforce Development Partners Fund at one of the participating suppliers recognized below.

Your voluntary donation of ½ of 1% (0.5%) on purchases of plants and other nursery, greenhouse and landscape products at these suppliers is used by the MNLA Foundation to grow a brighter future for the industry. On an invoice totaling $1,000 at one of these suppliers, your contribution will be only $5.00. Small, individual contributions add up quickly to make a real difference!

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