Welcomes Joining Forces: Unification brings

by Nina A. Koziol

There’s strength in numbers especially when it comes to members. In recent years, ILCA welcomed the Landscape Design Association, the Midwest Ecological and Landscape Alliance, and the Illinois Professional Lawn Care Association into the fold. And now, ILCA has formally merged with the Illinois Green Industry Association (IGIA).

“What was once two great organizations is now one powerful force for our industry,” said Jeff Kramer, ILCA’s president. “It’s very exciting. There were certainly a lot of emotions from both organizations as we met and discussed the possibility. Overall, most were very excited about getting together. We worked through the idea and all the hurdles from both sides. I am very proud to have been part of this historic event.”

For Graham Hill, president of Platt Hill Nursery, in Bloomingdale and Carpentersville, being a member of IGIA made sense because, “We were first and foremost a garden center, but we joined ILCA as we ramped up the landscape side.” The company sent 20 staff from the retail and landscape divisions to iLandscape this year. Some attended presentations while others hit the exhibit floor. “It gives our managers a chance to see some of the equipment — and it’s a talent and development opportunity.”

For ILCA vice president Ashley Marrin, the unification not only makes the industry stronger, but is a chance to network at greater capacity. “It’s exciting to gain the viewpoint of other members — garden centers, growers, contractors and suppliers statewide who all have unique challenges. We’ll grow our statewide presence to offer education, training and networking and, with the use and development of technology since Covid, members don’t always need to be present in person to participate in events or committees.”

“Successful associations have to deliver value on multiple levels,” said Scott Grams, ILCA Executive Director. “There are some issues that impact every landscape professional in the state. Then, there are other issues that are more localized and regional. This unification lets us deliver member value on both fronts. We can still