The ALCA INFLUENCE
May/June
WHY OUR ‘SONORAN EMERALD’ OUTSHINES THE ‘DESERT MUSEUM.’
ARIZONA’S SIGNATURE TREE
The Parkinsonia or Cercidium is commonly known as the ‘Palo Verde’. The most popular hybrid is the ‘Desert Museum.’ Since there has been no authentication in its hybridization, every nursery makes their own hybrid. Unfortunately, that means you don’t really know what you’re getting with ‘Desert Museum.’ Inconsistency abounds.
WE MADE A SUPERIOR TREE
Presenting our exclusive ‘Sonoran Emerald’ hybrid. Crafted in our Innovation Lab. Field-tested. Embraced by discerning landscapers.
DESERT MUSEUM VS SONORAN EMERALD
Retaining all the beauty, without the drawbacks. Bid farewell to undesirable features of the Desert Museum: scarring, droppings, and limb breakage. Envision a lush tree with radiant green bark, virtually indestructible in strong Arizona winds – the “Sonoran Emerald.”
INNOVATION FROM THE GROUND UP
Our breakthrough: grafting exclusively on ‘Parkinsonia X parkinsonia’ rootstock. A more time-consuming and costly process, but one that ensures consistency. STRONG TREES. HAPPY CLIENTS. Picture a world without noisy clean-ups, costly replacements, or client embarrassment. You’re not just planting a tree; you’re cultivating trust.
CONTACT OUR SALES EXPERTS
Large trees in stock, ready for planting. Choose from 25-gallon pots or 36” wooden crates. Two locations to serve you. Phoenix: 623-581-3100 or Cave Creek: 480-488-1968
The ALCA INFLUENCE
ARIZONA LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS’ ASSOCIATION
2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President
Nickie Velten
DTR Landscape Development, LLC
Vice President
Warren Runcorn
ABC Scapes Inc
Secretary Kim Kleski
Kleski & Associates
Treasurer
Beth Postma
All Season Wholesale Growers
Executive Director
Linda Turnage Linda@ALCA .org
Advertising Association Outsource Services, Inc. (916) 961-9999 www.aosinc.biz
Printing Diversified Print Solutions
Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association 5425 E Bell Road, Suite 105 Scottsdale, Arizona 85254 Phone: 602-626-7091 www.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.
ALCA’S THREE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLANNING MEETING
A Blueprint for Organizational and Personal Growth
Last year, the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association (ALCA) completed its highly anticipated, first-ever, Three Year Strategic Planning Meeting and there is a palpable sense of excitement about the future. This meeting brought together leaders, stakeholders, and members from across the organization to map out ALCA’s vision and goals for the next three years. Yet, while the focus will primarily be on the organization’s strategic objectives, the principles guiding these discussions can be highly relevant to individuals seeking direction in their personal and professional lives.
Linda Turnage Executive Director
The Significance of Strategic Planning for ALCA
The Three-Year Strategic Planning Meeting provides a structured opportunity to reflect on current achievements, assess market trends, and chart a course that aligns with the evolving needs of its members. This year’s planning session is expected to focus on several key areas:
1. Member Engagement and Support: Ensuring that ALCA continues to offer innovative programs, resources, and networking opportunities to support its diverse membership.
2. Technology Integration: Exploring ways to leverage technology to enhance member communication, improve access to resources, and create more personalized experiences for our members.
3. Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: Strengthening efforts to build a more inclusive community by addressing equity in career access and growth.
4. Sustainability and Growth: Developing a financial and operational plan that supports long-term sustainability while expanding membership and organizational impact.
The importance of this meeting lies not only in the outcomes that will drive ALCA’s future but also in how these outcomes are achieved. The strategic planning process itself is a powerful exercise in visioning, goal setting, and resource alignment—elements that mirror personal development strategies.
How Strategic Planning Principles Relate to Personal Growth
Just as organizations like ALCA engage in strategic planning to thrive in a competitive environment, individuals can apply these same principles to their personal and professional lives. Here’s how the strategies discussed during ALCA’s Three-Year Strategic Planning Meeting can be adapted for personal use:
1. Reflection and Assessment: The first step in any strategic plan is understanding where you currently stand. ALCA will examine its past performance and assess current trends. Similarly, personal strategic planning begins with self-reflection— evaluating your strengths, weaknesses, accomplishments, and areas of improvement. What have you achieved in the past few years? What challenges have you faced? This level of self-awareness helps create a solid foundation for future growth.
2. Setting Long-Term Goals: ALCA will outline ambitious yet achievable goals for the next three years. On a personal level, individuals can think about where they want to be in their careers or personal lives in the next three years. Are you aiming for a promotion? A career change? A healthier lifestyle? Setting clear, long-term goals provides direction and purpose.
3. Resource Alignment: A key component of ALCA’s planning process will involve aligning resources—whether financial, technological, or human—with its goals. In personal strategic planning, this means identifying the resources you’ll need to achieve your objectives. It might be networking connections, further education, or developing specific skills. Just as ALCA must make budgetary decisions, individuals should also allocate time, energy, and resources efficiently.
4. Flexibility and Adaptation: The world is constantly changing, and so must strategic plans. ALCA will account for potential disruptions in the landscaping industry and ensure its strategy is flexible. In
personal planning, it’s crucial to remain adaptable. Life circumstances—such as health, family obligations, or economic shifts—can require us to pivot our plans. The ability to reassess and adjust your goals as needed is a critical component of long-term success.
5. Sustainability and Balance: ALCA is not just planning for growth but for sustainable growth. For individuals, this translates to finding a balance between ambition and well-being. Pursuing personal goals at the expense of mental and physical health is unsustainable. Like ALCA, personal strategic plans should consider how to achieve growth in a way that is harmonious and sustainable over time.
Conclusion: Aligning Organizational and Personal Strategies
ALCA’s Three-Year Strategic Planning Meeting represents more than just a roadmap for the organization—it serves as a valuable model for individuals seeking to plan their futures. Whether you’re a career professional looking to make your next move or simply someone aiming for more personal fulfillment, strategic planning can help you align your resources, stay adaptable, and pursue sustainable growth.
As ALCA embarks on this strategic journey, its members are encouraged to do the same. Through careful reflection, goal setting, and alignment of resources, both organizations and individuals can carve out a clear path to success, ensuring that they are prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Warmest Regards, Nickie Velten – 2025 ALCA President Linda Turnage – 2025 ALCA Executive Director
Nickie Velten 2024 ALCA President
2025 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVE FROM A LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
An Interview with Byron Sampson, University Landscape Architect, Associate Director, Arizona State University
By: Frances Craik
Landscape contractors are one pillar of our dynamic landscaping industry, contributing to the design, installation, construction, maintenance, and enhancements of landscapes. Landscape contractors are inextricably connected to our valued horticulturists, nursery professionals, and landscape architects to collectively steward precious water resources and diverse plant species. To broaden my own understanding of the interconnectedness and synergy within these professions, I interviewed Byron Sampson, a well-respected Landscape Architect and Associate Director of the Landscape Architecture Program at ASU. Byron’s insights are most inspiring and will guide ALCA’s work moving forward to help us all work better together.
Frances Craik (FC): Can you please introduce yourself, including your current role and the organization you represent within the landscaping industry?
Byron Sampson (BS): My name is Byron Sampson and I am the University Landscape Architect for Arizona State University. I have been a practicing landscape architect for over 42 years.
FC: Do you frequently collaborate with other stakeholders or contractors? How important is effective communication with these partners to the success of projects in the landscaping sector?
BS: The basis of my work is to coordinate between the design professional and contractors that are engaged to design and build the projects on the campuses within the university. Effective communication is essential to our success and I work diligently to create an environment that is open to all parties to collaborate and have meaningful discussions. It is the only way that I see having a project come to a successful conclusion.
FC: What aspects of the landscaping industry currently excite or inspire you the most?
BS: I am very excited to see the professions move in the direction of sustainability and the efforts being made to reduce construction waste, save water, reduce urban heat island impacts, provide evidence-based feedback on design and construction issues, and collaborate more throughout the process. I think it is vitally important to have the entire team involved early in the project to develop to best outcomes.
FC: From your perspective, what are the most significant challenges facing the landscaping industry today
BS: The change in the climate is poising significant challenges to the viability and vibrancy of the entire industry. The past few years have been trying as significant, established plant materials are being lost and plant materials are being shifted in terms of exposure. As I review design drawings, I am seeing plantings being called out that are either no longer available or are being grown in cooler climes. I think that more communication needs to occur between the growers, designers and contractors so that we are all aware of the common and unique challenges we are confronting currently and in the future. Collectively, we can work toward a series of solutions that benefit us all and sustains our industry in the long run.
FC: In your opinion, how can landscape contractors, landscape architects, and nursery professionals collaborate more effectively to enhance the overall development of the industry?
BS: I think the SHADE Conference is good educational venue and allows for connecting with various individuals/companies that are not always top of mind. However, the key decision-
making entities need a forum to earnestly and mindfully discuss the issues that confront each of us individually and collectively. I think that having an objective moderated forum to air out the issues would go a long way in creating an environment of greater collaboration, transparency and trust. I could see this being done over a series of topics (too much to do in one sitting) – design, construction, maintenance, plant availability and demands, propagation issues and time to market, and future casting –what are we seeing that will impact us all! I do not think we have a good understanding of what economic, personal and personnel impacts each of us face daily.
FC: What trends or changes do you anticipate impacting the landscaping industry in the next 1-3 years?
BS: WATER, EDUCATION, GREEN WASTE and INSTALLATION TIMING. Everyone knows that water is dominate threat brought on by land development and diminished snowpacks in Colorado. Educating industry professionals and HOA members and commercial property owners/managers what the best practices are to reduce particulate pollution and reduce green waste is critical. Timing of plant installations on major projects to reduce plant shock and lower plant mortality rates would be beneficial. Working across the entire industry spectrum is going to be essential going forward, we need to support each other so that we can collectively work toward the future we want.
Byron Sampson Arizona State University
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WATER CONSERVATION AT THE CITY OF SURPRISE
By: Frances Craik
Earlier this year I was introduced to the dynamic Sandra Hurlbut, the Water Conservation Specialist for the City of Surprise. Doug Donahue connected us, which is no surprise, because if you know Doug, you know that he is excellent at connecting industry professionals. Sandra came to ALCA to check out our Sprinkler Stand, Drip Stand, and Water Audit equipment that we use for our ACLP Irrigation and ALCA Certified Irrigation Technician programs. Inspired by these hands-on learning tools, she is eager to expand interactive training opportunities for the landscape contractors she educates through the Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper (QWEL) program. QWEL is a WaterSense-labeled professional certification that focuses on promoting water-efficient and sustainable landscape practices. It was a privilege to participate in the QWEL program with Sandra, and I look forward to sharing more about her dedication to water conservation.
Please introduce yourself, your current job title, and your history in the industry.
I serve as the Water Conservation Specialist for the City of Surprise, where I lead efforts to support the city's water conservation initiatives. While I am the sole specialist in this role, I am fortunate to collaborate with a dedicated team of colleagues committed to advancing our shared sustainability goals.
With a diverse background in the environmental field dating back to the early 1980s, my experience spans various roles, including Chemical Analyst, Medical Researcher specializing in antibiotic-resistant bacteria, Management Intern for electroplating companies, Financial Advisor, Park Ranger, and Director of Project WET. This broad expertise has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of environmental stewardship and resource management, which I apply to my work in water conservation. What industry trends are you noticing about water conservation and water management?
I have observed a transition from traditional meter readers to Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) technology, enabling municipalities to monitor real-time water usage data and
respond more quickly to leaks. This advancement enhances water conservation efforts by improving efficiency and reducing water loss.
In 2024, the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority allocated $200 million in grants for water conservation projects across the state. The City of Surprise was awarded three grants: one to support the City's Water Conservation Rebate Program, another for the Water Distribution Group to implement a hydrant AI system, and a third for the Parks and Recreation Department to convert non-functional turf areas. The hydrant AI system leverages artificial intelligence to detect leaks within the city's water lines, improving infrastructure resilience and efficiency.
Overall, I am seeing significant advancements in technology that enable faster, smarter water conservation. These innovations, supported by infrastructure grants, not only enhance working conditions for industry professionals but also create educational opportunities for homeowners and commercial developers while driving continued research and development in water management.
What is QWEL?
The Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper (QWEL) program is a WaterSense-labeled professional certification designed to promote water-efficient and sustainable landscape practices. I first learned about QWEL at the WaterSmart Innovations Conference in Las Vegas, NV, and immediately recognized its potential as a valuable addition to the educational opportunities available to landscape contractors in the Valley.
Currently, the City of Surprise offers QWEL free of charge to landscape contractors working in Surprise and the West Valley. While existing programs such as Smartscape and ALCA’s educational offerings provide excellent industry training, accessibility remains a challenge for professionals in Surprise and the surrounding areas, especially when courses require multiple weeks of in-person attendance. To address this, the City of Surprise introduced QWEL to provide localized, high-quality education and skill-building opportunities for landscape professionals in our region.
Participants who complete the program have the opportunity to earn their QWEL Certificate and become QWEL Auditors by successfully completing the Water Audit and final exam. While irrigation training often takes place in the field under experienced supervisors, this training may not always be comprehensive, up-to-date, or aligned with best practices in sustainability. Other certifications, such as the Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor (CLIA) through the Irrigation Association, are excellent but tend to cater to more advanced professionals. What sets QWEL apart is its accessibility—it is designed for landscape technicians, field workers, and industry professionals seeking practical, handson knowledge applicable to their daily work.
The goal of QWEL is to empower professionals to conduct irrigation audits and implement best practices for water conservation, helping to safeguard Arizona’s precious water resources. While launching a new program always comes with challenges, the response so far has been overwhelmingly positive. Looking ahead, my goal is to expand QWEL beyond Surprise and the West Valley, ensuring even more landscape professionals have access to this valuable certification.
Anything else you'd like to add?
Embrace new learning opportunities and be open to trying something new. While I have worked in water conservation for many years, I do not consider myself a field expert in irrigation. However, I am always eager to share my knowledge and engage with industry professionals.
When leading QWEL training, I am transparent with the landscape contractors in my classroom, recognizing that many have decades of hands-on experience. I foster an open, collaborative learning environment, where we can exchange insights and learn from one another. This dynamic approach often leads to engaging discussions, as everyone brings unique experiences and new discoveries to the table.
To enhance this interactive learning experience, I encourage participants to share real-world examples from the field, including photos of irrigation challenges they encounter. By working through these issues together, we create practical, solutions-oriented discussions that strengthen both individual expertise and industry best practices.
Frances Craik Education Coordinator
CJS Lifestyle & Design
Carly Schroeder carly@cjslifestyle.com
CJS Lifestyle & Design is an up-and-coming landscape design firm currently working closely with builders in the greater Phoenix area. Architect & Designer Leavitt Group of Northern Arizona, Inc. Blake Hollman blake-hollman@leavitt.com
Business Insurance Agency that writes business all over Arizona and the surrounding states. We also do Personal Lines, Life Insurance, Employee Benefits, Bonding, etc. We have agents all over the state: Verde Valley, Flagstaff, Phoenix, etc.
Associate Class 2
Tempe Power Equipment
Rob Flansburg rob@tempepowereq.com
Full service outdoor power equipment dealer.
Associate Class 2
Southwest Disposal
Mark Looney info@swdaz.com
We are a bulk trash company specializing in fast and flexible job-site removal and dumpster services. Whether you’re needing on-site pickups or need ongoing waste management, our team is ready to provide quick, efficient solutions tailored to your needs. With a variety of dumpster sizes and prompt pickup options, we ensure a hassle-free experience, keeping your project on track and your site clean. Trust us for reliable service that adapts to your schedule and gets the job done fast.
Associate Class 1
Bartlett Tree Experts
Noah Johnson njohnson@bartlett.com
Scientific Tree Care Company that specializes in finding scientific solutions to tree and shrub related issues.
Contractor Class 3
JOIN
Corpay
Yvette Wright Yvette.Wright@corpay.com
Corpay is a global leader in business payments and expense management, providing a range of solutions that streamline accounts payable, manage expenses, and handle international transactions in ways that no other provider can rival. From vehicle payments and lodging to corporate cards, AP automation, and international payments, Corpay simplifies every aspect of business spending. With cutting-edge technology, global expertise, and reliable support, Corpay is your trusted partner for saving time, reducing costs, and protecting against fraud.
Associate Class 4
Michelle Andreoli
Josh Blakeley josh@landscapecontractormarketing. com
Our mission at Landscape & Hardscape Contractor Marketing is to transform the way outdoor living professionals approach online marketing. We help landscape contractors, hardscape designers, and outdoor living specialists build powerful online presences, attract their best-fit clients, and streamline their sales processes.
Associate Class 1
Oakswood Turf and Hardscape
Alan Hopkins Alanhopkins@oakswoodturf.com
Oakswood Turf & Hardscape is a family and military-owned business serving Tucson and surrounding areas since 2018. We specialize in the design and installation of pavers, artificial turf, retaining walls, and complete hardscape solutions. With a strong commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction, we transform outdoor spaces into beautiful, functional environments. As a licensed, bonded, and insured contractor, we uphold industry standards and best practices, ensuring long-lasting results for residential and commercial projects. Contractor Class 3
Now part of the Site One team, Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock Is your one stop shop for all your landscape needs. We are a hauling company with a fully stocked retail yard and a proud distributor for Belgard, Southwest Sod, Evergreen Turf, Phoenix Paver, and AZ Best Block. We carry over fifty colors of landscape rock, river products, soil mixes, rip rap and boulders. Our knowledgeable sales staff will insure that your order is accurate and our experienced drivers will get your materials to you on time. Our certified scale ensures that you are receiving the correct amount of material ordered. Call or come by today.
Monday-Friday 6A-5P Saturday 7A -3P 7540 N 67th Ave, Bldg. A Glendale, AZ 85301 Office 602-353-1020 Fax 602-353-1027
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
Landscape
Sponsored by:
San Norterra, Commercial Maintenance Under $100,000, Judges Award
Acero Harvest Station, Commercial Maintenance Under $100,000, Judges Award
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Worrell Residence, Residential Installation Under $50,000, Judges Award
Harmony II, Commercial Installation $500,000 - $1 Million, Judges Award
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
Sponsored by:
Stratland Estates, Commercial Maintenance
$100,000 -$300,000, Judges Award
Estrella Commons, Commercial Maintenance
$100,000 - $300,000, Judges Award
Monte Vista Village Resort, Commercial Maintenance $100,000 - $300,000, Award of Distinction
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
ELS Maintenance
Sponsored by:
Azure, Commercial Maintenance
$100,000 - $300,000, Award of Distinction
Superstition Foothills, Commercial Maintenance
$300,000 - 500,000, Award of Distinction
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
Escalante, Commercial Maintenance
$300,000$500,000, Judges Award
Sponsored by:
Peralta Canyon, Commercial Maintenance
$300,000 - $500,000, Judges Award
Over $1 Million, Judges Award
San Tan Heights, Commercial Maintenance
Crossing, Commercial Maintenance $500,000 - $1 Million, Judges Award
& 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 Rain Bird Corporation
Rain Bird Corporation is a leading global manufacturer and provider of irrigation products and services. Daniel Porter | (602) 920-7765 www.rainbird.com
Farms, Commercial Maintenance $500,000$1 Million, Award of Distinction
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• Use for Rounded or Curved Applications with a Radius
• UL Certified E487030
• Accessories Available for Various Installations For more information visit https://brillianceled.com/wave-strip-light/
ARBORJET
As a proud member of the Arizona Landscape Contractors Association (ALCA), Arborjet | Ecologel is committed to supporting landscapers, tree care service
These tools are essential for landscapers and tree care providers pushing to achieve sustainable results.
We offer a diverse range of plant health care solutions designed to enhance soil quality, support root development, and increase water retention. These products are specifically formulated to combat common issues such as drought stress and poor soil health. Our comprehensive approach ensures plants remain resilient and vibrant despite challenging growing conditions.
In addition to providing effective plant care solutions, we specialize in soil remediation. We deploy advanced techniques such as radial trenching and root collar excavation using Supersonic
providers, and lawn care professionals with efficient, effective products. We’ve established ourselves as leaders in tree, turf and plant health care through innovation, sustainable solutions, and hands-on support.
Our excellent research and development team is critical to our success and consists of board-certified master arborists, agronomists, and certified sports field managers. The team is continuously developing cutting-edge solutions designed that address the distinct challenges of maintaining landscapes in the desert climate. We understand the difficulties faced by industry professionals in this environment and provide effective, science-backed solutions that produce results despite limited water resources, extreme heat, and nutrient-deficient soils
Our innovative plant health care equipment ensures precise, efficient treatments. The technology maximizes tree and plant health while conserving valuable resources.
sectors. Our solutions both address immediate concerns and promote long-term plant vitality, which results in thriving landscapes that enhance their native communities.
Our mission remains clear: to support landscapers, lawn care professionals, and tree care service providers with reliable plant health care solutions. With a focus on continuous innovation and personalized
Air Knife technology. These services restore struggling trees and landscapes, improve soil aeration and nutrient uptake, and preserving the integrity of the surrounding environment.
We believe in empowering landscapers and tree care providers with educational opportunities and hands-on support. This includes educational training sessions, workshops, and personalized consultations that help professionals develop and implement their own plant health care programs. From diagnosing plant stress to managing pest and disease challenges, we work closely with our landscape partners to ensure their long-term success.
Our dedication to advancing plant health care has earned us a reputation as an industry leader. From breakthrough product innovations to collaborative research initiatives, our contributions have yielded visible impacts across the tree, turf, and plant health care
support, we are committed to helping our partners meet the evolving challenges of the desert landscape. Our team works hard to help landscape professionals navigate these challenges with customized strategies aligned with their unique needs. Whether you’re looking to enhance plant resilience, optimize water efficiency, or reduce maintenance costs, we’re here to support your operations. Get in touch with us to learn how Arborjet | Ecologel can be a valuable partner in advancing your plant health care programs.
Through our partnership with ALCA and the dedicated professionals we serve, we look forward to contributing to the creation of greener, healthier landscapes for years to come.
RAIN BIRD
The Intelligent Use of Water™
Over the past eight decades, Rain Bird has strived to deliver products to the market that use water in the most efficient ways possible. Founded in 1933 during the agricultural boom in California, Rain Bird Corporation began with the invention of the original Horizontal Action Impact Drive Sprinkler. The product revolutionized the irrigation industry. Since the beginning, Rain Bird has produced and offered the industry’s broadest range of irrigation products. Decades before the term “water restrictions” became a common term, Rain Bird recognized the need to wisely use and conserve our most precious resource. Rain Bird’s commitment to The Intelligent Use of Water™ continues to influence all aspects of Rain Bird’s business philosophy and resonates through constant innovation and development of water-conserving products that include irrigation sprinklers, drip components, pumps and timer/controllers. Today, Rain Bird offers over 4,000 water-saving irrigation products that can be found in farms, golf courses, sports arenas, commercial developments and homes in more than 130 countries around the world.
A Legacy Continued
In recent years, Rain Bird has introduced dozens of new products with more on the way. Some products are an additional component that increases the efficiency of an existing product. Others are an improved new version of an existing product. And others are an entirely new product in itself.
In 2020 Rain Bird has continued to break new ground in the landscape irrigation industry with the release of the new ESP-LX-IVM (Integrated Valve Module) and IQ™4 Central Control Platform.
Introducing Rain Bird’s new ESP-LXIVM Two-Wire System
The new ESP-LX-IVM has many powerful and flexible features, starting with the revolutionary new Integrated Valve Module (IVM). This “smart solenoid” stays in constant communication with the controller, providing efficient irrigation and advanced diagnostics. The new IVM now integrates the station-decoder and solenoid as one component reducing the needed wire splices by half, improving installation costs and system reliability. A simple-to-use interface and advanced diagnostics make LX-IVM the best controller on the market. Two models are available, the LX-IVM which supports up to 60 stations and the LX-IVM Pro which supports up to 240 stations. Up to four Two-Wire paths can be connected, plus flow sensing and advanced flow management tools that set new industry standards for state-of-the art water management.
Applications
Rain Bird’s ESP-LX-IVM Series 2-Wire controllers are designed for the largest and most demanding sites, such as housing or condominium complexes, schools, sports fields, parks and public spaces, or large industrial and commercial sites.
Easy to Use
ESP-LX-IVM features an extra-large backlit LCD display and soft key text labels for button functions that change depending on the programming step.
Introducing the Future of Central Control
For years Rain Bird’s IQ Platform has offered professionals some of the industries most powerful tools to remotely manage irrigation systems. Rain Bird is proud to announce that IQ has evolved and progressed along side our commercial controller line-up.
Now, with IQ4 take control of your irrigation business and reputation through full remote access of irrigation systems for healthier landscape from any device capable of web browsing.
IQ4 is equipped with a modern new user interface for simple set-up with streamlined navigation and programming, and automatic weather-based adjustments. As well it allows real-time access to diagnose and solve problems. The IQ4 Platform offers state-of-the-art monitoring, programming and control features in an easy to learn user interface and provides advanced water management features saving money and time.
Modern User Interface
IQ4’s modern user interface is web-based and is optimized for any device including tablets and offers full control with smart phones.
Streamlined Navigation
The improved navigation system allows easy set-up and programming due to the new capability of group editing.
Tiered User Access
Tiered access allows tighter control of the field along with the ability to perform remote operations on ESP-LX Controllers.
To learn more about Rain Bird Control Solutions, visit www.rainbird.com/professionals/ TakeControl.
Or contact Daniel Porter at dporter@ rainbird.com or Brandon Grimes at Bgrimes@ rainbird.com
DRIVING FLEET EXCELLENCE
Enterprise Fleet Management takes the wheel so businesses can stay focused on the road ahead. We do more than just manage vehicles—we make fleets smarter, smoother, and way less stressful. From picking the right cars and trucks to keeping them fueled, maintained, and ready to roll, we handle all the behind-the-scenes work so our clients don’t have to. With local experts who actually get to know your business, plus cool tech that turns data into real savings, we
help companies of all sizes drive down costs and ramp up efficiency. Whether you’ve got five vehicles or five hundred, we build a plan that fits like a glove. At the end of the day, we’re not just managing fleets—we’re helping businesses move better, faster, and with a lot more confidence.
If this sounds like something your business could benefit from, I’d love to chat! Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re
curious, have questions, or just want to explore how Enterprise Fleet Management can support your goals. I’m here to help and always happy to connect.
Sincerely, Rami Almkhlalati 480-783-8129 Ext. 47013 Rami.almkhlalati@efleets.com
EXPANDED COVERAGE Means Expanded Possibilities
Go the distance with the new MP Rotator® MP-820 Nozzle! This longer-range nozzle reaches 22' at the recommended 40 PSI with a precipitation rate of 0.8 in/hr matching the MP-800SR and MP-815.
LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION | Built on Innovation® Learn more. Visit hunterirrigation.com
RESOURCE GUIDE/AD INDEX
FLEET & VEHICLE MANAGEMENT
OnSite OilChange Plus (480) 470-0352
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IRRIGATION PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS
Horizon (800) PVCTURF (782-8873)
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LANDSCAPE CERTIFICATION
TRAINING/TESTING
Metro Institute (602) 452-2900
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LANDSCAPE EQUIPMENT
Stotz Equipment 623-936-7131
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LANDSCAPE MATERIALS
Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock Landscape Materials (602) 353-1020
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LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES
Material Delivery, Inc. dba MDI Rock (602) 569-8722
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LIGHTING
Brilliance LED, LLC (800) 867-2108
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NURSERIES
All Season Wholesale Growers (602) 276-0230
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Arid Solutions Nursery (602) 437-5194
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Arizona Wholesale Growers (623) 581-3100
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South Coast Wholesale (888) 326-7256
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SOD/TURF
Evergreen Turf, Inc. (480) 456-1199
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West Coast Turf (888) 893-8873
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TREES
Western Tree Company (602) 243-6125
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TRUCKS
Chapman Chevrolet (480) 752-1540 | chapmanchoice.com
Please see our ad on page .................................. 22
