ALCA January/February 2024

ALCA

INFLUENCE

January/February 2024

PAID

TUCSON, AZ PERMIT NO. 657

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The

A R I Z O N A L A N D S C A P E C O N T R AC T O R S ’ A S S O C I AT I O N

ALCA’s Excellence in Landscaping Awards Gala COVER PHOTO: 2023 PRESIDENTIAL AWARD - HILLMAN WORKSHOP

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

January/February 2024 The

ALCA

A R I Z O N A L A N D S CA P E CO N T R AC T O R S ’ A S S O C I AT I O N

I N F LU E N C E

President’s Message........................................................................................ 6 Executive Director’s Message........................................................................7 Calendar of Events.......................................................................................... 7 2024 Board of Directors and Executive Director.........................................8 2024 Board of Trustees .................................................................................9 Join Our Team as a Volunteer!.......................................................................9 New Members...............................................................................................10 ALCA Sponsors..............................................................................................10 47th Annual Excellence in Landscaping Award Sponsors........................ 12 47th Annual Excellence in Landscaping Awards................................. 12-16 ACLP Schedule..............................................................................................17 ALCA Member Profile: West Coast Turf/Western Sod.............................18 ALCA Member Profile: South Coast Wholesale.........................................19 ALCA Member Profile: Vermeer MW........................................................ 20 Plant Pruning Schedule – Publication for Sale.......................................... 20 ALCA Member Profile: Desert Tree Farm.................................................... 21 Resource Guide/Ad Index...........................................................................22

PMD Certification Exam PPreparatory MD Certificat ion Exam Courses Preparatory Conducted WCourses eekly Conducted Weekly

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2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Nickie Velten DTR Landscape Development, LLC

Vice President

PUBLICATION Advertising

Association Outsource Services, Inc. (916) 961-9999 www.aosinc.biz

Warren Runcorn ABC Scapes Inc

Printing

Secretary

Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association

Kim Kleski Kleski & Associates

Treasurer

Beth Postma All Season Wholesale Growers

Diversified Print Solutions 5425 E Bell Road, Suite 105 Scottsdale, Arizona 85254 Phone: 602-626-7091 www.ALCA.org

Executive Director Linda Turnage

Linda@ALCA.org

The ALCA Influence is the official publication of the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association. ALCA and The ALCA Influence assume no responsibility for the statements or opinions appearing in articles under an author’s name. The services of an attorney or accountant should be sought in legal and tax matters. For editorial information, contact the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association, 5425 E. Bell Road, Suite 105, Scottsdale, Arizona 85254; telephone (602) 626-7091 e-mail linda@ALCA.org.

The Participant hereby irrevocably grants the Company permission to use the Participant’s voice, image and likeness in any photograph, video, internet site, audio-recording, and in any and all of its publications, including website entries (collectively “Promotional Materials”) without payment or any other consideration.

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Eric Johnson 602.738.8733 ej@westerntree.com

Office 602.243.6125 • Fax 602.243.3764 3401 E. Southern Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85040

www.westerntree.com January/February 2024 T THE ALCA INFLUENCE

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

ALCA Introduces Full-time Education Coordinator, Frances Craik

A

fter five years of employment as ALCA’s Education Coordinator, Heather Taylor left ALCA to pursue other opportunities.

Heather’s last day was November 9. She was instrumental in developing the ALCA Certified Irrigation Technician (CIT) program and the upcoming 2-Wire class. Her dedication and contributions have been immeasurable, and we wish her the best in her future endeavors.

T h e E d u c a t i on Coordinator’s position is now a full-time position, and we are thrilled to introduce Frances Craik to continue the success of ALCA’s educational programs. In addition, Frances will be tasked to identify, pursue and Nickie Velten Frances Craik develop new educa2023 ALCA President Education Coordinator tional opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations to expand the organization’s reach and influence. Frances will further the relationship with the Arizona Department of Education to bolster the certification programs in the high school and college horticulture classes. She will concentrate on engaging

with Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs) and community management companies to promote sustainable landscaping practices and offer ALCA’s educational programs.

Frances was born in Metro Detroit in the Great Lakes state of Michigan and has lived in Arizona for seven years. She studied Urban Planning and Sustainable Food Systems at Arizona State University (ASU) and supports local food systems as a seed grower, garden educator, and urban agriculture advocate. She is a new beekeeper and maintains a large home garden that includes fruit trees, native perennials, annual vegetables, and herbs that provide inspiration for culinary delights.

Please welcome Frances to the ALCA family. You may reach her at Frances@ALCA.org.

Respectfully, Nickie Velten

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

A Warm Welcome from ALCA’s New Executive Director

It

is with great pleasure and gratitude that I accept the role of Executive Director in your esteemed organization. I would like to express my appreciation to everyone who welcomed me so warmly at the 2023 Excellence in Landscaping Awards Gala, and congratulations to all the award-winning landscape contractors for their exceptional projects. I would also like to thank Judy Gausman, the staff, and the board for their support and assistance in my transition into this position. I understand that 2023 was a transitional year, but with your input, participation, and support, we can ensure that the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association has a bright future.

My professional background includes serving in various non-profit organizations, such as the American Association of Cosmetology Schools, National Association of State Contractors Linda Turnage Licensing Agencies, and Executive Director the United States Swim School Association. I have been responsible for managing budgets, financial operations, board, committee and volunteer management, membership recruitment and retention, regional and annual meetings, continuing education program management, new program development, and alliances with parent organizations.

I am humbled by the opportunity to lead ALCA, and I am fully committed to investing my time and energy to understand the ALCA culture, policies and procedures, and the legislative environment impacting the Arizona landscaper contractors’ businesses. I stand with the ALCA board in its mission to provide the education and government representation resulting in the enhanced professionalism of members and the public’s perception of Landscape Contractors and the Green Industry.

Lastly, I would like to acknowledge and express my gratitude to the dedicated staff of ALCA. We are all committed to providing exceptional, personalized service to our members. Please do not hesitate to contact any of us at any time; we are always happy to hear from you.

Warmest regards, Linda Turnage ALCA Executive Director

JANUARY

2024 Calendar of Events

9 Board Meeting 17 Member Mixer sponsored by OnSite OilChange Plus 18 ACLP Plant ID – ALCA Office or Online 20 ACLP Plant ID – Prerecorded 25 ACLP Soils & Fertilizer – ALCA Office & Online 26 SLM – ALCA Office & Online 27 ACLP Plant ID – Tucson

FEBRUARY

8 10 15 21 22 24 28 28

ACLP Planting & Tree Staking – ALCA Office & Online ACLP Planting & Tree Staking – Prerecorded ACLP Irrigation – ALCA Office & Online Member Mixer sponsored by Belgard 2-Wire – ALCA Office In Person Only ACLP Planting & Tree Staking – Tucson Trade Show SLM – At Trade Show – In-person Only

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2024 Board of Directors and Executive Director

The ALCA Board of Directors is full of dynamic individuals who embody and push forward the mission of the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association. I look forward to working with the team in 2024 and am proud to introduce them to you. Sincerely, Nickie Velten

Matthew Johnson, Back to Nature Landcare (Government Affairs)

Bob Franchetto, Horizon Distributors (Community Projects)

Nickie Velten, DTR Landscape Development LLC (President)

Warren Runcorn, ABC Scapes Inc (Vice-President)

Beth Postma, All Season Wholesale Growers (Treasurer)

Kim Kleski, Kleski & Associates (Secretary)

Maggie Saulsby, Rain Bird (Awards)

P 602-437-5194 F 602-437-4719 James Carr, BrightView Landscape Services (Education)

Daniel Baiza, Arizona Sunscape Lawn Maintenance (Member & Public Relations)

Tanner Spross, Santa Rita Landscaping (Programs)

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2024 Board of Trustees

The ALCA Board of Trustees is committed to maintaining the prosperous growth and representation of ALCA members. The Board’s primary responsibilities are to look beyond the day-to-day operations and create long range goals for the association. The Trustees consists of past and present Board leaders whose hard work, dedication and vision have been instrumental in the success that ALCA has achieved today.

Below are the members of the ALCA Board of Trustees.

President Robin Franklin Sun Country Landscape, Inc

Secretary Glenn Fahringer Earth Care “For All That’s Green” Inc

Barb Stropko New Desert Gallery, Inc

DECORATIVE ROCK SAND BOULDERS

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Bill Krause Terra Designs Inc

Bob Underwood AAA Landscape

Dale Micetic

Ed Macias Service Direct Landscape, LLC

Craig Potter

Join Our Team as a Volunteer!

Arizona Landscape Contractor’s Association 5425 E Bell Road, Suite 105 Scottsdale, Arizona 85254 www.ALCA.org | 602-626-7091 January/February 2024 T THE ALCA INFLUENCE

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NEW MEMBERS 12-88 LLC

Jeffrey Fleetham 435 E Main Street, #228 Mesa, AZ 85203 (602) 628-7695 jfleetham@outlook.com www.linkedin.com/in/lmotp51 Advisory and consulting service to the construction industry and its customers, on various regulatory and compliance issues. Mediation between contractors, building owners, and/or homeowners, involved in disagreements over contractual performance and/or work performed on a job.

Assist contractors and others in the ROC license application within the legal statutory requirements of Arizona Revised Statutes Title 32 Chapter 10 and 43, Title 41 Chapter 6, and Title 44 Chapter 11. Qualifying Party and owner of 12-88 LLC. Associate Class 1

Acosta Farms

Nicolas Acosta 21051 SW 177th Ave Miami, FL 33187 (305) 253-2649 nickacosta26@aol.com Growers of fine field-grown tropical palms and foliage in South Florida delivering nationwide.

Associate Class 1

Desert Premier Lighting LLC dba Blingle!

Tonya Keating 12647 East Via de Arboles Chandler, AZ 85249 (480) 704-7100 tkeating@blingle.com www.blingle.com/chandler-arizona Blingle! Of Chandler is a locally owned and operated, nationally backed premier lighting company servicing Chandler and the surrounding communities. We specialize in landscape, patio, holiday, event and permanent lighting for both homeowners and businesses. It is our mission to turn our customers’ next get-together, holiday party, home, or business into the ideal venue to create unforgettable memories.

Contractor Class 1

Green Earth Landscaping & Construction LLC

Simplot Turf & Horticulture

Paul Comstock PO Box 1309 Cornville, AZ 86325 (928) 634-4375 paul1greenearth@gmail.com www.azgreenearth.com Verde Valley’s oldest landscaping and landscape construction company that provides residential and commercial landscape maintenance, irrigation system design, installation, and repair as well as landscape construction services.

Contractor Class 1

Geoffrey Johansen 42 Calais Circle Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 (760) 220-7732 geoffrey.johansen@simplot.com www.simplot.com We are full full-service landscape, sports turf, nursery, and golf distributor. We sell seeds, chemicals, fertilizers, and our own proprietary line of products throughout Arizona, and across the country.

Associate Class 1

LIV Lawn and Construction LLC

Heriberto Baez PO BOX 1743 Chandler, AZ 85244 (480) 599-9462 livarizona1@gmail.com www.livlawnandconstruction.com We offer residential landscaping services.

Contractor Class 1

Rain Link Irrigation

Clint Dunn 2302 S Oak Park Drive Tucson, AZ 85710 (520) 500-6028 Info@rainlink.net www.rainlink.net Rain Link Irrigation focuses on smart watering, sensors, the correct plant water requirement, and water conservation.

Contractor Class 1

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Special Thank You to our ALCA Sponsors PLATINUM SPONSORS A to Z Equipment Rental & Sales All Season Wholesale Growers Arizona CLA LLC Belgard/Superlite Block an Oldcastle Co Civano Growers Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock – a SiteOne Landscape Supply Company Desert Tree Farm Enterprise Fleet Management Evergreen Turf Ewing Irrigation & Landscape Supply Hill & Usher Insurance & Surety Horizon Distributors Hunter Industries/FX Luminaire LeBaron & Carroll Rain Bird Corporation SiteOne Landscape Supply South Coast Wholesale Southwest Sod, Inc. The Synthetic Grass Store/ Arizona Turf Masters Toro Company/ Unique Lighting Systems /Irritrol Vermeer Mountain West West Coast Turf

GOLD SPONSOR RDO Equipment Co. - Phoenix

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Horizon is your #1 source for irrigation and landscape supplies.

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Landscape & Agronomic products & training

Gas & Battery Powered Equipment and parts & service

The new HorizonOnline.com makes online ordering simple, fast and convenient.

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ALCA LANDSCAPING AWARDS

2023 Excellence in Landscaping Award Sponsors The Toro Company/Irritrol/ Unique Lighting Systems

We strengthen our position as a leading worldwide provider of innovative solutions for the outdoor environment including turf maintenance, snow and ice management, landscape, rental and specialty construction equipment, and irrigation and outdoor lighting solutions.

Paul Tammelleo paul.tammelleo@toro.com (602) 315-3637 | www.toro.com

Arizona Turf Masters/ Synthetic Grass Store

Synthetic Grass Store provides contractors, synthetic lawn installers and Do It Yourself (DIY) homeowners with a one stop shop for all the materials and information needed to make their landscaping dreams come true. From design tips, tool rentals and safety specifications to installing your perfect backyard putting green through our partner company Arizona Turf Masters, our professional and knowledgeable team can support your project from start to finish.

(480) 751-4343 | www.azturfmasters.com (602) 996-8873 | www.syntheticgrassstore.com

Desert Tree Farm

Desert Tree Farm has been propagating, cultivating and growing native arid plants since the early 1970’s. Their farm grows over 300 plant varieties with two convenient growing and sales locations in both North and South Phoenix totaling on over 90 acres. Of these, many are proprietary plants uniquely developed for southern Arizona and the southwestern United States.

(602) 569-6604 | www.deserttreefarm.com

Hunter Industries/FX Luminaire

Hunter Industries offers thousands of products in over 120 countries, including a complete spectrum of water- and energy-efficient solutions for residential, commercial, and golf course irrigation systems. They also offer industry-leading landscape, architectural, and facade lighting solutions through their FX Luminaire and Lumascape brands.

(480) 305-4289 | www.hunterindustries.com

Hill & Usher

Hill & Usher is the premier insurance program for the Green Industry providing exclusive coverage designed for landscape contracting, tree trimming, nurseries, and maintenance firms.

(602) 956-4220 | www.trimrisk.com

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Excel Exce llence ALCA’S

47TH ANNUAL

In Landscaping Awards

PROGRAM

Members of the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association gathered to celebrate and recognize the fine work and artistry that the landscape industry provides to our beautiful state at the 47th annual Excellence in Landscaping Awards Gala held on November 18, 2023, at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass.

The ALCA awards program reflects the association and industry’s commitment to designing and maintaining our southwest environment as well as applying practices and methods that promote sustainability.

There are many people that contribute their time and talents throughout the year to make this program a success. As the Director of the Awards Program, Maggie Saulsby with Rain Bird, spearheaded and coordinated ALCA’s largest event of the year.

Thank you to the judges who contributed their time and expertise by viewing photos in the ALCA office and onsite visits in the heat of the summer. They were Ben Schottke (SiteOne Landscape Supply), Beth Postma (All Season Wholesale Growers), Judy Gausman, Maggie Saulsby (Rain Bird), Nickie Velten (DTR Landscape Development), Russ Lowd (Level One Landscaping), Warren Runcorn (ABC Scapes), and Tanner Spross (Santa Rita Landscaping).

Much appreciation goes to Arizona Wholesale Growers for furnishing the beautiful table centerpieces. Thank you to RDO Equipment Co, V&P Nurseries, and Whitfill Nursery for sponsoring the delicious dinner.

For dessert, everyone enjoyed some delicious treats sponsored by Association Outsources Services whose company collects the advertisements for the ALCA Influence magazine and the ALCA Directory and Resource Guide.

Entertainment was sponsored by SunWest Golf & Reclamation.

A special thank you goes to the 2022 Lifetime Achievement recipient, Judy Gausman, for recognizing and announcing the Special Award winners. As the Master of Ceremonies, Daniel Porter with Rain Bird did an expeditious job introducing the awards.

ALCA is truly fortunate to have members who support the awards program by sponsoring the various categories. Their generosity is amazing. These sponsors will be recognized with the winners throughout each issue of the ALCA Influence magazine.

And of course, there would not be a program without the landscape contractors who submitted their beautiful landscape projects. Forty companies took the time and effort to take photos, fill out the application and compete against fellow ALCA members and friends to win an award. By participating in the program, these companies will be able to market to their clients, recognize their employees for their hard work, dedication and outstanding landscape projects and be recognized in the industry by being a leader of the pack and competing with the best!

A gallery of the award-winning projects may be viewed at www.ALCA.org/Gallery and in the upcoming issues of the 2024 ALCA Influence magazine.

ALCA LANDSCAPING AWARDS

2023 Presidential Award

Sponsored by:

The Presidential Award is given to a project that demonstrates the highest level of excellence and creativity. This award is the “Best of Show’ chosen from over 100 of the most beautiful landscape projects submitted into the competition.

Hillman Workshop/ The Landscape Broker

Stagecoach Residence, Carefree, AZ, is the first manufactured factory built modular housing designed by Optima DCHGlobal, Inc. All components of the residence were constructed offsite and craned into position, a first for a monumental undertaking of this scale in Arizona.

The factory-produced structure is made of Vierendeel steel trusses that supply rigidity and strength and support long spans without diagonal members that would obscure views (even the garage is a prebuilt modular structure). By elevating the living modules on piers, the site disturbance to the natural desert was minimal, creating a harmonious balance between nature and building.

Due to the sloping terrain of the lot, extensive terracing and over 50 truckloads of boulders were used to blend the disturbed areas needed for crane and driveway access. Once the buildings were set, salvaged trees and cacti were relocated around the residence to accentuate the elevated platform of the modular structure.

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ALCA LANDSCAPING AWARDS

Sponsored by:

2023 Best Residential Landscape Management Award High Desert Designs

The Best Landscape Management Award reflects and recognizes the precise efforts of landscape care.

Proper pruning of all plant material follows the Sustainable Landscape Management Practices.

Proper monitoring of irrigation systems minimizes water use but is sufficient for all species to flourish.

Attention to every detail give this project a pristine look that everyone can appreciate and enjoy.

Upon completion of the landscape design and installation, High Desert Designs assumed responsibility for its maintenance on behalf of the client. Given the property’s expansive driveway, mature vegetation, and extensive desert terrain, a three-person maintenance team conducts bi-weekly maintenance checks.

Sponsored by:

2023 Best Commercial Landscape Management Award AAA Landscape

Cavasson is Nationwide’s jewel in the desert. This property is high demand, non-stop perfection. The management team demands nothing but the best and depending on the season it could be challenging.

People fly in from all over the country to visit and expect to see the beautiful Arizona color/flowers.

AAA Landscape’s goal is to always have color throughout the year. They did this by selecting the proper vegetation. In order to keep pushing flowers, their team practices sustainability and keeps it natural and in a nice manageable size. This property continues to grow and it’s their team’s goal to keep these common areas appealing for the new tenants.

Perfection is a must here, and they provide and exceed expectations.

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ALCA 2023 Special Awards

ALCA LANDSCAPING AWARDS

Chosen by their peers, three ALCA members were honored with special recognition at ALCA’s Excellence in Landscaping awards gala at the beautiful Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass on November 18, 2023. These individuals have demonstrated a strong dedication and commitment to ALCA and the landscape industry.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPECIAL AWARD SPONSORS

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Don Gabbard – Sunburst Landscaping Sponsored by SiteOne Landscape Supply

Don Gabbard started Sunburst Landscaping in 1976. At that time, he worked for the union laying underground pipeline for civil road construction projects.

He sold the family vehicle to buy a dump truck to haul granite on the side to fill in the gaps when one job completed, and they were waiting for another to start. When he would drop granite, customers would ask if he could also do some landscaping. He discovered that he enjoyed it and became a talented landscape designer. Word spread and it didn’t take long for him to make the jump into full-time residential landscaping. He got his first commercial project at a school and his business began to grow. He would work long hours in the field and do estimating at night.

On the weekends he would custom weld his trucks and trailers to make them as efficient as possible while still finding time to coach his daughter’s softball team. Soon he built his own office building with a staff of 100. His hands-on approach gave Sunburst a great reputation in the industry with architects, owners, suppliers, and fellow industry professionals. Anyone that has met him will attest to the fact that he is one of the hardest workers in the industry. Still to this day you will find him in the field working alongside his crew, earning him such respect that a large majority of employees have been with him for over 30 years.

In the commercial industry, this reputation landed him a lot of high-profile projects. One of those high-profile projects that posed many challenges was Bank One Ballpark, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks. That project was up against an extremely tight schedule with El Niño dropping record rain

numbers and flooding in the Phoenix area.

Wet dirt had to be scrapped away and dry dirt imported in. Belly dumps full of dirt were scheduled around the clock, because first pitch was approaching. Don got the idea to plant shrub container buckets instead of plants, so that they could go on working without damaging the plants with all the excavation going on simultaneously. Today, we still use this technique, and you will see many other companies using it as well.

Don is extremely innovative. He was the first to develop and build a concrete mixer that attached to a uniloader bucket so they didn’t have to hand mix and the concrete could be dumped in place. He also developed and built a skid hoe so he could dig like a backhoe in areas where a backhoe wouldn’t fit. Both these inventions have been since manufactured but he was the first to build them when they were not available. Any problem he faces he figures out a solution and has the skills that go beyond landscaping to implement it himself. He is also not afraid to broaden his horizons and learn new skills.

When the recession hit in 2008, he expanded and developed an artificial turf division to get more work in a difficult market. He learned the skill and then crossed trained his crews.

This division today is still strong.

Aside from being creative, hardworking and innovative, one of Don’s best qualities is the generosity he has shown the community.

He has donated money to many causes, landscaped churches, worked with the Wounded Warrior program landscaping yards, the Make a Wish Foundation building a park, and the Arizona Humane Society building a walking trail for rescue dogs. He

continually shows his character putting people over profits.

He has instilled a love for the industry in his family and his daughter Noelle, grandson Leighton, and nephew Mark who have the honor of working alongside him, learning the industry, and making it a career. Sunburst Landscaping is a three-generation company, a Legacy of Excellence since 1976, and it all started under the leadership and character of Don Gabbard.

Congratulations, Don Gabbard, ALCA’s 2023 Lifetime Achievement Recipient.

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ALCA LANDSCAPING AWARDS

OUTSTANDING ASSOCIATE MEMBER OF THE YEAR

Dwight Darrell – Greenway Print Solutions

Sponsored by Arizona Turf Masters/Synthetic Grass Store Born in Napa, California, Dwight Darrel’s family moved to Idaho, where he lived through high school. His father owned a furniture store there, and Dwight has moved many appliances and a lot of furniture over the years.

Dwight attended the University of Utah in Salt Lake City.

He sold computers and later became the owner of Southwest Letterpress, where he was self-taught how to run letterpresses.

“Set your watch back 50 years”, he would say when you entered the shop – as his newest press was built in the 70s.

Twice retired, Dwight joined the labor force again where he works part-time at Greenway Print Solutions. That is when he decided to become involved with ALCA, and he truly treasures the friendships that have developed over the years. You may have seen Dwight (alias Santa Claus) at the ALCA holiday parties.

Dwight and his wife have been married for 23 years. They have five children between them, eight grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

Congratulations to Dwight Darrell, ALCA’s 2023 Outstanding Associate Member.

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

Jon Berg, General Manager – BrightView Landscape Services

Sponsored by Horizon Distributors Jon began his career in landscaping in 1989 in Las Vegas with Torino Construction, he later found Colorscape, Inc. along with several family members including his father, Mike. For the next 20 years, Jon would be involved in just about every major landscape installation in and around Las Vegas, first with Colorscape, then with Gothic in various roles, before moving to Arizona and joining ValleyCrest, which later became BrightView.

Today, Jon oversees the Arizona North Market for BrightView Landscape Services, with revenues that rank in the top 100 landscape firms in the nation.

Jon is a wealth of industry knowledge and loves to share that with others frequently leading ALCA and internal trainings. As a skilled operator, Jon often brags that he’s run every type of heavy machinery except a rock truck. Do any of our ALCA partners want to help him cross that off his bucket list?

Most importantly, Jon has a passion and eye for safety; he knows that no account, no amount of revenues, no finished project can ever replace the value of human life. He believes that doing everything within his power to keep the BrightView team members safe is the most important responsibility.

Jon is a devoted husband to his wife Mary who sadly passed in 2022.

Jon and his daughter Rachael share the love of bowling and frequently travel to compete in tournaments together.

Jon holds certifications through ALCA, NALP, SWWPP, and more.

Jon is pursuing his BA in Business Operation and Management through the University of Arizona Global Campus.

On behalf of all the lives Jon has touched, thank you for making our lives better!

Congratulations to Jon Berg, ALCA’s 2023 Outstanding Landscape Contractor Award.

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Aug 15 or 17 Aug 24

May 16

Feb 8 or 10 Feb 24

Planting & Tree Staking

Sep 19

May 9 or 11 May 18

Sept 12 or 14 Sept 28

May 23

Feb 15

Tree & Irrigation Shrub Pruning

Oct 17 or 19 Oct 26

Aug 22

Plant Problems

Arizona Landscape Contractors Association • 5425 E Bell Rd, Ste 105 Scottsdale AZ 85254 (602) 626-7091 • www.ALCA.org

*workshops are non-refundable, substitutions allowed—dates and locations are subject to change

Jul 18

Apr 18 or 20 Apr 27

Pesticides & Calibration

Zoom Online or ALCA Office 5425 E Bell Rd, Ste 105 Scottsdale, 85254 Tucson—Randolph Center, 200 S Alvernon Way, Tucson 85711 WHEN: 7:30 am—11:30 am / Tucson 9 am—1:00 pm *COST PER WORKSHOP: Early registration: $60/ALCA member or $120/non-member Register within 72 hours: $80/ALCA member or $160/non-member REGISTER: www.ALCA.org/calendar QUESTIONS: Call the ALCA office at (602) 626-7091 or email Frances@ALCA.org

June 20

WHERE:

Apr 25

Jan 25

Jan 18 or 20 Jan 27

Mar 7 or 9 Mar 23

Annuals & Soils & Perennials Fertilizer

Plant Identification

Mar 21

Turf Care & Installation

CEUS Available:

Oct 3

Jun 13 or 15 Jul 11 or 13 Jun 29 Jul 27

Safety & Tools

This educational program is for those aspiring to be professional landscapers. Anyone may attend any or all of the workshops to increase their knowledge and skills. To become certified, students must attend and pass an exam for each of the 10 workshops listed below.

ALCA MEMBER PROFILE

WEST COST TURF/WESTERN SOD

West Coast Turf/ Western Sod Quality, Service, and the Newest State-of-the-Art Eco-Friendly Turfgrasses/ Groundcover

West Coast Turf/Western Sod (WCT/WS) is undoubtedly the most famous face in Arizona’s turfgrass industry. We offer top professional quality natural turfgrass and installation services to all of our customers, whether they are an ultra-particular golf course superintendent wanting perfection for members or a PGA Tour tournament, a landscape contractor wanting the best product at the best price, an MLB spring training facility needing top quality product, or a homeowner looking for the newest environmentally friendly lawn. We also offer same day pick-ups at our Scottsdale farm.

The Latest State-of-the-Art Grasses, NEW super drought tolerant groundcover, and the “Good Ol’ Standby’s”

Environmentally friendly turfgrasses are vital to the future of the industry, and one of our answers is the Platinum TE Paspalum. “I’ve been in the industry for a long time, and I haven’t

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seen a grass out there better for our desert,” Danek explained.

WCT/WC has recently introduced Kurapia sod—a drought tolerant natural groundcover. It creates highly unique and versatile landscape design. It requires less water, and maintenance than traditional turfgrasses. It has the look of a lawn—it grows close to the ground and rarely exceeds 1” high. If left un-mowed, it produces small white sterile flowers, or they can be mowed off for a textured simple green look. It is found to be tolerant of saline, acidic, and basic soils, and grows best in full sun or partial shade.

“The market is certainly buzzing over Kurapia sod. It wasn’t available in sod form before but we’ve got it now. It is more costly than traditional turfgrass, but those who have tried it are loving it and using it on more projects after their first time. It is a pretty cool plant, and we’re excited to sell it,” said Danek.

Tahoma 31 bermuda is our newest addition and is quickly becoming an industry favorite.

“Tahoma is by far the most drought tolerant bermuda we have ever seen.

It also has incredible wear tolerance

in addition to the drought tolerance. It is the best grass in the NTEP study under deficit irrigation, fine texture, early spring green up, and ability to thrive from sports fields to home lawns. Keep your eye on this grass—its exceeding all expectations,” Danek explained.

“We’ve also expanded our inventory of St. Augustine, the new TifTuf, and our popular EZ-Turf,” Danek said. “And--BOBSod is still the homeowner ‘go to’ grass. But the Tahoma 31, Platinum TE and Kurapia are the ones that everyone wants to know more about.”

And Mr. Wise Grass—Our Sod Blog…….

Danek has been roped into his role as our resident “Mr. Wise Grass.” His blog “Ask Mr. Wise Grass” (found at http://mrwisegrass.com) offers turf advice, tips, insights, and answers. “I am passionate about grass, and I love helping people get their lawns in top condition,” Danek said. WCT/WS offers virtual “Lunch and Learn” presentations for those wanting in on the latest detailed industry product information—just ask!

Contact West Coast Turf/Western Sod at 800/832-8873, online at www.westcoastturf. com, or find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ westcoastturf. Life is short. Sod it!

ALCA MEMBER PROFILE SOUTH COAST WHOLESALE

South Coast Wholesale

S

outh Coast Wholesale (SCW) is a leading supplier of high-quality DATE PALMS, FAN PALMS, & TREES. Based in California, SCW has been serving Arizona for 17 years. SCW owns its own fleet of trucks and ships its palm trees weekly throughout Arizona.

South Coast Wholesale specializes in Phoenix canariensis – Canary Island Date Palm, Phoenix dactylifera – True Date Palm, Washingtonia filifera – California Fan Palm, Washingtonia robusta – Mexican Fan Palm & Washingtonia hybrid - ‘Filibusta’.

With an inventory of over 10,000 Medjool, Zahidi and Deglet Noor date palms, and several thousand fan palms, South Coast Wholesale can fill all orders; big or small.

In addition to Phoenix dactylifera Date Palms and Washingtonia Fan Palms, South Coast Wholesale also deals in Brahea armata – Mexican Blue Fan Palm, Chamaerops humilis – Mediterranean Fan Palm, Olea europaea – Mature Olive Trees, and more.

The team at South Coast Wholesale has been working together for nearly 20 years and is dedicated to providing high quality Palms & Trees. SCW’s palms and trees can be seen throughout Arizona, and at many of the Las Vegas Casinos, including Wynn, Encore, Bellagio, Resorts World, Fontainebleau and Las Vegas Boulevard.

South Coast Wholesale Offers....

• Fast Shipping • Knowledgeable Staff (ISA Certified Arborists, Certified Riggers & Operators) • Consulting Services and Tree Salvage/ Relocation • Product Photos Available • Most Sizes and Quantities Available SCW proudly supports the ALCA and the ASLA. For pictures, pricing, or more information, call 888-326-7256 or visit us online at www. southcoastwholesale.com.

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ALCA MEMBER PROFILE VERMEER MW

Equipping Arizona Landscapes: Vermeer Mountain West Stands with You!

In

the rugged beauty of Arizona, landscaping isn’t just a job – it’s a fight with the environment. Vermeer Mountain West isn’t just a supplier; we’re your partner in this landscaping adventure.

Every department in our dealership is staffed with pros who have been recruited, trained, and geared up with one goal in mind; your productivity and profitability.

Your Equipment Professionals – Factory Certified Technicians

Our team of technicians knows your machines inside-out. They understand every aspect of Vermeer equipment. In the scorching Arizona sun, we work hard to keep your machines running smoothly.

Parts Team – Your Reliable Problem Solvers

Our parts team has got your back. With professional training, cutting edge technology and an extensive inventory, we’re constantly planning ahead to serve you. Whether you’re in the heart of Phoenix or out in more remote areas, our parts team is ready for your call.

Straightforward Sales Team – Your Industry Allies

Our sales team brings a consultant approach to every business they work with. They’ll come along side you to understand your business needs and get you the right tool for the job. From the dust storms to the rocky patches, our sales team understands the challenges.

Vermeer Mountain West is your industrial equipment dealer in Arizona and throughout the southwest.

Plant Pruning Schedule – Publication for Sale

ALCA continually updates and makes improvements to their educational programs. Improper tree and shrub pruning is one of the most difficult challenges to educate not only our industry but the public at large.

ALCA has created a publication, “Plant Pruning Schedule – The First 100”, a guide for proper pruning of 100 common plants found in the Desert Southwest.

Pruning is the intentional removal of plant parts. Pruning should only be done when necessary and at the right time of year using the natural growth form of the plant as the goal. Along with photos, each page in the publication will include the bloom period, pruning time, proper pruning techniques and helpful tips for trees, palms, groundcovers, vines, shrubs, flowering perennials, cacti, non-cacti succulents and grasses.

Copies are available for sale for $25/each plus shipping and handling.

Call ALCA at (602) 626-7091 to order yours today!

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ALCA MEMBER PROFILE DESERT TREE FARM

Desert Tree Farm

N

ot just during the holiday season, but all year round, we are reminded how fortunate we are to be in business after 50 years. If not for the past and present employees, Desert Tree Farm would not be who we are today. As the Dalai Lama says, “The roots of all goodness lie in the soil of appreciation for goodness.”

From North and South America countries to Eastern European countries, we have been fortunate enough to meet and work with some very interesting and talented people. People with backgrounds ranging from students to teachers to engineers to musicians.

With a staff of 70 between two growing yards, we run with the help of production crews, propagation masters, skilled order pullers, delivery loaders, maintenance specialists, spray technicians, irrigation checkers, drivers, sales, and administration. You can depend on us for a quality product for all your landscaping needs.

Always looking toward improvement, we have added new technologies to our operation. Faster and more efficient work practices create a better product and ease the labor of our crews. A state-of-the-art propagation facility is the home to all the liners of the one- and five-gallon shrubs, vines, and trees. This healthy beginning ensures the long life of our inventory.

After 50 years in business, we have seen trends come and go, we have seen the economy fall and rise again, we have seen legislation support and not-so support our agricultural endeavors, and it is with all this experience and knowledge that we can provide a dependable business that you can rely on. We have seen it all, we have dealt with it all, and we are prepared for the future.

Stop in at one or both of our yards in north or south Phoenix. Our staff will greet you and be ready to answer any questions you may have.

Check out our inventory and place your orders in time for your next installation. We are happy to help and appreciate your patronage!

It is with our sincerest blessings that we wish you the happiest new year! May 2024 bestow upon you and your families good cheer, good luck, and good health.

Visit our website at www.deserttreefarm.com.

We can be reached at (602) 569-6604.

January/February 2024 T THE ALCA INFLUENCE

21

RESOURCE GUIDE/AD INDEX

BUSINESS BROKER Macor Associates, Inc. (602) 989-9960 www.macorassociates.com Please see our ad on page.................... 8 FLEET & VEHICLE MANAGEMENT OnSite OilChange Plus (480) 470-0352 www.onsiteoilchangeplus.com Please see our ad on page.................. 23 INSURANCE Hill & Usher (602) 667-1848 www.trimrisk.com Please see our ad on page.................... 8 IRRIGATION PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS Horizon (800) PVCTURF (782-8873) www.horizononline.com Please see our ad on page...................11 Hunter Industries (760) 744-5240 www.hunterindustries.com Please see our ad on page.................... 6

LANDSCAPE CERTIFICATION TRAINING/TESTING Metro Institute (602) 452-2900 www.metroinstitute.com Please see our ad on page.................... 5 Tree Biz Academy www.train.treebizacademy.com (602) 550-0471 Please see our ad on page...................11 LANDSCAPE EQUIPMENT Stotz Equipment www.stotzequipment.com 623-936-7131 Please see our ad on page.................... 7 LANDSCAPE MATERIALS Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock Landscape Materials (602) 353-1020 www.cuttingedgecurbing.com Please see our ad on page.................... 9 LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES Material Delivery, Inc. dba MDI Rock (602) 569-8722 www.mdirock.com Please see our ad on page.................... 4

Pioneer Landscape Centers (480) 739-6505 www.pioneerco.com Please see our ad on page.................. 22 LIGHTING Brilliance LED, LLC (800) 867-2108 www.brillianceled.com Please see our ad on page.................. 10 NURSERIES All Season Wholesale Growers (602) 276-0230 www.allseasongrowers.com Please see our ad on page.................... 9 Arid Solutions Nursery (602) 437-5194 www.aridsolutionsnursery.com Please see our ad on page.................... 8 Arizona Wholesale Growers (623) 581-3100 www.azwholesalegrowers.com Please see our ad on page.................... 3 South Coast Wholesale (888) 326-7256 www.southcoastwholesale.com Please see our ad on page.................... 2

OLIVES & ORNAMENTALS Arizona Olives & Ornamentals LLC (602) 833-8252 www.olivesaz.com Please see our ad on page.................... 7 SOD/TURF Evergreen Turf, Inc. (480) 456-1199 www.evergreenturf.com Please see our ad on page... Back Cover West Coast Turf (888) 893-8873 www.westcoastturf.com Please see our ad on page.................... 4 TREES Western Tree Company (602) 243-6125 www.westerntree.com Please see our ad on page.................... 5

24PILC001-24-Why Choose Pioneer - We Make it Easy-1

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