The ALCA INFLUENCE
November/December 2025
Designing and Building a Great Place to Work
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
WE’RE MORE THAN JUST ROCK.
The ALCA INFLUENCE
ARIZONA LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS’ ASSOCIATION
DESIGNING AND BUILDING A GREAT PLACE TO WORK
By Linda Turnage, ALCA Executive Director
In today’s competitive marketplace, organizations that thrive aren’t just those with the best products or services, they’re the ones that create exceptional workplaces. A “great place to work” isn’t defined by ping-pong tables or free snacks, but by a culture where employees feel valued, trusted, and inspired to do their best.
So how do you intentionally design and build a workplace where people want to stay, grow, and contribute?
Every great workplace begins with clarity of mission. Employees need to know why the company exists and how their role contributes to that larger purpose. Just as important are shared values, principles that guide how decisions are made and how people treat one another. When those values are lived consistently (not just posted on the wall), they create a sense of alignment and trust.
Trust is the foundation of any strong culture. This comes from transparent communication, where leaders openly share both successes and challenges. Employees should also feel safe to ask questions, give feedback, and propose new ideas without fear of negative consequences. Leaders who follow through on promises and model accountability send a powerful signal that trust is not negotiable.
Great workplaces empower employees by giving them autonomy, control over how they approach their work. They also invest in growth through training, mentorship, and clear career pathways. Recognition plays a big role here as well; consistent acknowledgment of contributions, both large and small, reinforces a culture where effort and results are celebrated.
When people feel they belong, they bring their full energy and creativity to the table. This means cultivating inclusive teams, encouraging collaboration across departments, and building community. From teambuilding initiatives to employee-led interest groups, organizations can create environments where relationships thrive alongside results.
The physical and digital work environments matter. Bright, flexible spaces with natural light, ergonomic furniture, and areas for both focus and collaboration support productivity. For hybrid or remote teams, the right technology and processes are essential. Beyond the physical, a healthy workplace includes wellness programs, mental health resources, and a focus on work-life balance.
Competitive, transparent compensation is a cornerstone of employee satisfaction. Beyond salary, benefits such as health coverage, flexible schedules, paid time off, and family support signal that the organization truly cares. Fairness is key, ensuring equitable access to promotions and opportunities strengthens trust and commitment.
A workplace is never “finished.” The best organizations listen continuously, through surveys, open forums, and one-on-one conversations, and then act on that feedback. Small but visible changes demonstrate responsiveness and build credibility. The goal is to evolve alongside employees’ changing needs and expectations.
Linda Turnage Executive Director
The Bottom Line: Designing a great place to work isn’t about perks; it’s about people. When purpose, trust, growth, belonging, wellbeing, and fairness come together, organizations don’t just attract talent, they keep it. The payoff is enormous: engaged employees, stronger teams, and long-term success for the business.
Because at the end of the day, a great place to work is not something you have, it’s something you intentionally build.
Photo by Jud Mackrill on Unsplash
CAMCO
Cheryl Huskey Esquibel 5425 E Broadway, #422 Tucson, Arizona 85711 cheryl@camcoaz.com
We are a Commercial Property Maintenance Company that has been in business in AZ for over 30 years. We do Landscaping, Pressure Washing, Parking Lot Sweeping, Day Porter and Maintenance services for Commercial Shopping Centers. We do graffiti removal, hauling, window cleaning, etc. Associate Class 2
ConnectPay Payroll Services
Tracy Morris
TracyCard@ConnectPayUSA.com
Payroll service for small companies
Associate Class 1
Desert Restoration
Jose Morales
Jmorales@desertrestorationaz.com
Full service landscaping company
Contractor Class 4
Desert Storm Landscaping
Jancel Rivera Espinoza junkbustersofaz@gmail.com
Full service landscaping company
Contractor Class 1
Legacy Landscaping & Design
Isaiah Espinoza-Soto Tucson, Arizona 85742 isaiahespinozasoto@gmail.com
Legacy Landscaping and Design proudly serves Tucson, Marana, Oro Valley, and Vail with complete residential and commercial landscape design and build services. We specialize in custom paver installation, artificial turf, outdoor kitchens, gazebos and pergolas, concrete, and desert-friendly landscape design. Our team combines innovative 3D design renderings with expert craftsmanship to create outdoor spaces that are both functional and beautiful. With over 20 years of experience and a reputation as one of Southern Arizona’s highest-rated landscaping companies, Legacy Landscaping and Design is dedicated to delivering quality, reliability, and lasting value on every project.
Contractor Class 3
Munhyi Landscape Services LLC
Rejah Munhyi 2899 Suncrest Arc
Las Cruces, NM 88011 rimuhyi@gmail.com
Contractor Class 1
Prime IV Hydration
Angela Garrett agarrett@primeivhydration.com
IV Drip Hydration Bar
Associate Class 1
Tucson Bird Alliance
Megan Ewbank
300 E University Blvd, ste 120 Tucson, Arizona 85705 mewbank@tucsonbirds.org
Tucson Bird Alliance is an environmentally minded non-profit organization. Tucson Bird Alliance inspires people to enjoy and protect birds through recreation, education, conservation, and restoration of the environment upon which we all depend. We believe that nature-based solutions pave our way to a sustainable future. Our restoration department creates resilient and beautiful landscapes which serve as habitat for wildlife and useable greenspace for our community. We design and build habitat gardens using low tech, processbased restoration at residences, community spaces, and wildlands sites. We also provide habitat-informed consultations and landscape maintenance services.
Associate Class 1
WHY YOU CAN’T MISS THE ALCA 2025 EXCELLENCE IN LANDSCAPING AWARDS GALA
Mark your calendar for November 22, 2025. This year, we invite you to join us for our annual Excellence in Landscaping Awards Gala, a truly memorable evening at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel. Whether you’re a landscape professional, design enthusiast, sponsor, or community member, we encourage you to be there and support this year’s accomplishments.
This gala is more than an awards show; it’s a stage upon which the very best in landscaping are honored. Recognizing top-tier projects, sustainable designs, creative problem-solving, and outstanding maintenance elevates the standards of our profession and inspires all who attend.
The evening gives recipients, and their teams, public recognition and validates their hard work. You’ll rub elbows with industry leaders: landscape architects, designers, contractors, suppliers, municipal officials, and clients.
Expect an engaging program with keynote speakers, project showcases, and behind-the-scenes perspectives from award winners. Not to mention an entertainment portion that’s sure to blow everyone away!
The Arizona Biltmore is a Phoenix icon, with lush gardens, historic architectural touches, and a reputation for elegance and luxury. Nestled on 39 acres of gardens, the resort offers a beautiful backdrop, making your gala evening feel special, elevated, and memorable. Its thoughtful restoration
(including a major $70 million renovation) balances respect for historic character with upgraded amenities.
Hosting your gala in a setting that itself represents high design complements the purpose of the event and our commitment to excellence. Sponsors, vendors, and firms that take part gain high visibility with logo placements, event materials, social media mentions, and more. For firms hoping to attract top talent or new clients, the exposure helps reinforce your brand among key stakeholders.
Your presence contributes to a sense of industry community, coming together to recognize peers nurtures pride, camaraderie, and collective momentum. It’s an oppor-
tunity to give back: many events include awards for up-and-coming designers or scholarships.
Each year’s gala becomes part of our shared history, as projects awarded here are often celebrated and referenced for years to come. You could be awarding or being awarded for work that sets future trends or becomes a landmark in regional design.
Beyond business, it’s a chance to relax, dress up, and celebrate with colleagues and friends. Expect fine food, ambiance, entertainment, and surprises. It’s sure to be an evening of joy as much as recognition. It’s a reward: a chance to pause, look back at a year’s work, and raise a toast to what lies ahead.
SAGUARO
The Saguaro is a Mini Bollard as well as a low glow back light. This can be used in flowerbeds to provide back lighting on walls. It can also be used as a guiding marker for paths. It is equipped with a 1.5W Micro G4 in 3000K. Available in Copper, Brass, Black, Stainless Steel, and Weathered Brass. Use this unit when a thinner, more discrete fixture is in order.
For more information visit: https://brillianceled.com/saguaro/
Nickie Velten 2025 ALCA President
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ASU’S URBAN NATURE PROJECT
By Heather Taylor, Curriculum Consultant & ISA Certified Arborist
Since leaving my post as ALCA’s Education Coordinator in Frances Craik’s capable hands in late 2023, I (Heather Taylor) have had the pleasure of working with a diverse team of folks at ASU and in the local urban forestry community on ASU’s Urban Nature project, funded by the USDA Forest Service. During this time, I have connected with an array of people doing important work to grow the Valley’s tree canopy to provide more shade and to grow the urban forest workforce to sustainably maintain it. I have specifically
of the needed industry sectors – from propagation to design and installation to landscape management and tree care to removal and soil building – to support the full lifecycle of a tree and sustain our urban desert ecosystem.
Urban Nature educators and program managers have taken advantage of several local Train-the-Trainer experiences learning more about regional best practices and professional industry expectations to incorporate this information into their
been involved with the Urban Nature Community Trade School – the workforce development arm of the project, collaborating with ASU and several non-profit and neighborhood organizations to cocreate pre-professional paid training programs in urban forestry.
I (Jen Clifton) am Assistant Director of Community Economic Development with ASU’s Rob & Melani Walton Sustainability Solutions Service, and in 2023 began building the Urban Nature collaborative that now consists of 18 partners, including ALCA. Community, municipal and industry partners named two pressing challenges: how to strategically reduce mean radiant temperature–the total heat a person feels from direct sun, reflected light, and surrounding surfaces – through nature-based solutions, and how to do this to also drive economic growth. ALCA and other industry partners reported a shortage of skilled workers as the #1 reason businesses turn down currently existing work and cannot expand. As we work across the Valley to scale the urban tree canopy in metro Phoenix, it is also critical to invest in growing a skilled workforce, creating viable career pathways across all
that we are modeling and teaching sustainable maintenance practices that align with the desert environment. And the ACIT has been particularly impactful, allowing me to teach irrigation efficiency and water conservation principles to our educators and participants—skills that are essential for our region’s long-term resiliency.”
Hayden Prouty, Urban Forestry Program Manager, Arizona Conservation Corp (AZCC), added, “For me, a high-
training programs. ALCA has partnered with ASU to offer ACLP and SLM training opportunities and ALCA memberships to these educators and managers, with 6 becoming ACLP certified, 8 becoming SLM certified, and 1 becoming ACIT certified over the past year.
Urban Nature educators found ALCA to be a great place to explore industry standards, network with professionals, and learn from the array of experiences each professional brought to the classroom, in a group learning setting.
Nick Keller, Project Manager of ASU’s Urban Nature Workforce Development, explained, “Since stepping into my role, I’ve completed the ALCA Certified Landscape Professional (ACLP), Sustainable Landscape Management (SLM), and ALCA Certified Irrigation Technician (ACIT) programs. Each certification has provided critical knowledge and skills that directly shape the design and delivery of our training programs. The ACLP gives me the technical foundation to speak the same “language” as contractors, vendors, and clients, which is invaluable when building partnerships or supporting small businesses. The SLM certification ensures
light of the ALCA classes was the ability to sit in the room with other professionals and share in the group learning. We actively learned from each other, with questions leading to thoughtful responses from the other experienced professionals in the room, and from the industry expert leading the class. ALCA excels at putting together a line-up of core topics that are valuable to a wide audience of industry professionals, and the varied levels of experience led to a great depth of knowledge being shared in each workshop.”
“It was great to hear from different professionals in the actual practical sense as well as in the business sense, and what changes they are seeing in this climate, which helped me understand the influence on certain functions and processes,” agreed, Alina Lucas, Urban Forestry Arboriculture Assistant at Unlimited Potential.
In addition to ALCA educational experiences, Urban Nature educators and managers have also benefitted from other ALCA network connections, notably a behind-the-scenes nursery tour of All Season’s Wholesale Growers by owner continued on page 11
Urban forestry educators Chris Geldis, Alina Lucas, and Sergio Soto with Urban Nature at Unlimited Potential leading instruction
Hayden Prouty, Urban Forestry Program Manager with AZCC teaching crew members about tree planting
Beth Postma. This tour offered a wider perspective to our team, as we learned about tree propagation and nursery operations: the beginning of our value-chain approach to workforce development.
The best practices taught through ALCA and its network partners are now embedded in the way Urban Nature prepares participants to enter the workforce as well as the way we work with industry professionals. Our Urban Nature Community Trade School brings the know-how and networks of industry partners like ALCA, the connection of community based organizations, the knowledge base of the university, and the hands-on experience and individualized
mentoring of a trade school, to offer a high-impact approach to workforce development that is grassroots, research-based, and industry-calibrated.
With highly trained educators, including certified arborists, horticulturists, irrigation specialists, landscape designers, and agroforestry farmers, the Urban Nature collaborative, led by ASU and funded by the USDA Forest Service, launched its first pre-professional courses
in January 2025 with Unlimited Potential, Spaces of Opportunity, and Orchard Community Learning Center. In the first cohort, 23 of 24 pre-professionals completed the 10-week hands-on training courses in sustainable landscape design, tree care, green stormwater infrastructure, and agroforestry, and 74% of participants leveraged their learning for new jobs, increased pay, and new business opportunities. Of the 12 who landed full-time internships (paid by the grant) with industry partners like Bartlett Tree Experts or ASU Grounds, 11 were hired into fulltime positions, most often with their internship site. A second Urban Nature cohort is currently underway with 26 learners, with internships to start in November. AZCC will also launch an Urban Nature crew in November. A third set of Urban Nature classes, followed by internships will start in January 2026. The City of Tempe has held three classes for Tree Stewards and is getting ready to start their fourth. ASU is preparing to launch an Urban Nature Nursery and Enterprise Hub in the Town of Guadalupe to support workforce and business development while scaling natural cooling solutions, and ASU, Hustle Phoenix, and Unlimited Potential will also launch monthly mentoring sessions in January to support new and existing businesses as they launch and scale.
The ASU team is developing new internship opportunities, all paid by the grant; ALCA plays a vital role here, too. Keller, who works closely with pre-professionals as well as industry businesses to develop internships and career pathways for pre-professionals, noted, “Just as importantly, the ALCA network has been
an asset in expanding Urban Nature’s reach. Having the ability to connect directly with seasoned professionals, contractors, and educators gives our participants a clearer pathway into the industry.”
“ALCA certifications also allow us to effectively vet potential partners,” Keller explained, “ensuring that the companies who engage with Urban Nature share our commitment to sustainability and best practices. As part of ASU’s Global Futures Laboratory and the Rob and Melani Walton Sustainability Solutions Service, it’s vital that our collaborations reflect the highest standards in urban forestry, landscape management, and water conservation – and ALCA is a key collaborator in that effort.”
About the future of urban forestry workforce development in the Valley, Prouty said, “We are just starting, we can feel the momentum: more trees are being planted and more are being cared for, more people are talking about it than ever before. The recent storm damage highlights the need for more trained professionals to carry out best practices in tree planting, establishment and maintenance. More of the public is beginning to recognize that they may need to seek out more highly trained individuals for tree care.”
Heather Taylor, Curriculum Consultant & ISA Certified Arborist taylorturnedearth@gmail.com
Jen Clifton, Assistant Director of Community Economic Development
Rob & Melani Walton Sustainability Solutions Service
Arizona State University jennifer.l.clifton@asu.edu
Urban Nature participants at Unlimited Potential learning to use the chipper with Bartlett Tree Experts
Urban Nature participant Myles Franklin at Orchard Community Learning Center cutting pipe for irrigation
Erik Houston, Assistant Director of Grounds at ASU, shaking hands with an Urban Nature participant / interviewee at an internship fair
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
LandCom Landscaping
2024
Sponsored by:
Excellence in Landscaping Awards Back to Nature Landcare Inc.
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards n.r design+build, l.l.c.
Sponsored by:
Sponsored by:
Adora Trails, Commercial Maintenance
$500,000 - $1 Million, Judges Award
Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino, Commercial Installation $300, 000 - $500,000, Judges Award
Dolan Residence, Residential Installation $200,000 - $300,000, Award of Excellence
Santa Rita Landscaping LLC, Four Peaks Landscape Management Inc. ALCA
AWARDS
Sponsored by:
Las Brisas Community, Commercial Maintenance
$300,000 - $500,000, Judges Award
Agua Dulce Community, Commercial Maintenance $0 - $100,000, Award of Distinction
Layton Lakes Community, Commercial Maintenance Over $1 Million, Judges Award
De Jesus Residence, Residential Installation $100,000 - $200,000, Judges Award
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards Grounds
Control, LLC
Sponsored by:
The Cays at Downtown Ocotillo, Commercial Maintenance $0 - $100,000, Award of Distinction
USAA - Main Campus, Commercial Maintenance
$100,000 - $300,000, Judges Award
Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU, Commercial Installation
$300,000 - $500,000, Judges Award
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
Grounds Control, LLC
Moontower PHX, Commercial Installation
$300,000 - $500,000, Award of Excellence
Sponsored by:
$500,000 - $1 Million, Judges Award
Town Deer Valley, Commercial Installation Over $1 Million, Award of Excellence
Broadstone Dobson Ranch, Commercial Installation
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
Flowing Wells Landscape & Pools
Sponsored by:
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Award Sponsors
All Season Wholesale Growers
All Season Wholesale Growers is a full-service, wholesale nursery that specializes in providing high quality trees, shrubs, ground covers and vines.
6623 S 32nd St #4, Phoenix, AZ 85042 www.allseasongrowers.com (602) 276-0230
Arizona CLA
We specialize in helping subcontractors grow and become more profitable, by providing a safe outlet for your labor needs. Managing payroll, employee paperwork, hours, injuries, taxes, and HR can be the hardest part of running a company- that’s where CLA comes in. 1403 W 10th Pl, Ste B-112, Tempe, AZ 85281 www.Arizonacla.com (602) 849-6058
Enterprise Fleet Management
Enterprise Fleet Management is a privatelyheld, full-service fleet management business for companies, government agencies and organizations operating medium-sized fleets of 20 or more vehicles, as well as those seeking an alternative to employee reimbursement programs. Part of our total transportation solution, Enterprise Fleet Management is an affiliate of Enterprise Holdings Inc. and owned by the Taylor family of St. Louis, Mo. www.efleets.com (480) 783-8124
LeBaron and Carroll, LLC
LeBaron & Carroll is dedicated to having knowledgeable, professional employees and providing them a safe, enjoyable, and fulfilling work place. We will continue to be a trusted advisor to our clients and a recognized leader in the insurance industry. www.landc.com (866) 808-132| (480) 834-9315
OnSite OilChange Plus
Our mobile service is built for convenience. We handle oil changes, brakes, batteries, tires, filters, inspections, and more—right at your job site, office, or yard. There’s no need to take vehicles off the road or lose valuable time scheduling shop visits.
We offer round rotation scheduling to keep your fleet maintained regularly and efficiently. We also work Saturdays to help minimize disruption to your operations. www.onsiteoilchangeplus.com (480) 608-3447
SiteOne Landscape Supply
SiteOne has everything you are looking for with a wide selection of irrigation, lighting, turf and landscape maintenance, nursery and pest control supplies. www.SiteOne.com 1-800-SITEONE | (800) 748-3663
Dove, Residential Installation $300,000 - $500,000, Judges Award
5 WAYS LANDSCAPING CONTRACTORS CAN SIMPLIFY FUEL AND
PAYMENTS
Practical strategies to reduce waste, protect margins, and support growth
What would you do with an extra hour— or a few hundred extra dollars—each week? For many landscaping contractors, those gains are hiding in plain sight: in how fuel is tracked and how vendor payments are managed. With crews to coordinate and jobs to complete, it’s easy to let these systems run in the background or take more time than they should. But a few small adjustments can free up your schedule, improve visibility, and protect your bottom line— allowing you to focus on growing your business. Here are five ways ALCA members are simplifying operations without adding complexity.
Rethink Fuel Management
Fuel keeps your crews and equipment moving, so it pays to ensure your program matches the way you work. Look for tools that offer detailed tracking, spending controls, and usage insights. A clearer view of fuel activity helps reduce waste and supports smarter planning.
Simplify Payments by Going Digital
Paper checks and manual processes take time and create opportunities for errors. Digital platforms consolidate vendor payments in one place, automate scheduling, and reduce the time spent chasing invoices. You’ll also gain better visibility into cash flow, making it easier to forecast and manage job costs more accurately.
Control Without Complication
Spending limits don’t have to slow your crews down. With flexible controls by role, region, or equipment, you can empower employees while still keeping expenses in check. This structure supports both efficiency and accountability.
Use Data to Plan Ahead
Fuel and vendor costs fluctuate throughout the year. Reviewing past trends helps you adjust budgets, prepare for seasonal spikes, and time purchases more effectively. Turn-
ing routine data into actionable insights allows you to make smarter, proactive decisions for your business.
Leverage Industry Expertise
There’s real value in seeking advice from specialists who understand the unique challenges of landscaping operations. Fuel and payment experts can provide tailored insights based on your company’s size, routes, and goals. Even a brief review can uncover tools and strategies that lighten the load on your admin team and create more consistency in daily operations.
Smarter Systems, Smoother Operations
Contractors who streamline fuel and payment processes often see benefits that go beyond financial savings. They gain confidence, clarity and valuable time to focus on other priorities.
Request a complimentary fuel program analysis to determine whether your current setup is supporting your goals—or leaving value on the table. This no-obligation review is customized to your business and designed to provide clarity, not pressure.
Book Your Complimentary Fuel Analysis
Contact: Yvette Wright at (623) 3010707 or Yvette.Wright@corpay.com
Yvette Wright has spent over seven years helping contractors improve fuel and payment operations across multiple trades. She provides ALCA members with insights and tools tailored to the landscaping industry.
Corpay One is a leading provider of fuel and payment solutions. We help businesses simplify spending, improve visibility, and scale with confidence. Legal Disclaimer: Complimentary fuel program analysis is for informational purposes only and does not obligate participants to any products or services.
CUTTING EDGE CURBING
Cutting Edge Curbing is a landscape material company aimed at providing competitively priced extruded concrete curbing, bulk landscape materials and products for residential and commercial applications while maintaining superior customer service, quality workmanship and longlasting relationships with the landscaping industry, our community and our customers.
Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock, a SiteOne Landscape Supply company continues to add products and strive to be your one stop shop for landscape materials and supplies. One call is all it takes to order granite, mulch, curbing, sod, block, flagstone, pavers and more. We are conveniently located off Grand Ave so our friendly staff can load up your materials and supplies quickly and get you on your way in no time. Cutting Edge Curbing Sand and Rock is no longer just a curb company. We are a hauling company with a fully stocked retail yard and a proud distributor for Belgard, Southwest Sod, Evergreen Turf, Keystone, Phoenix Paver and Ackerstone. We carry over fifty colors of landscape rock, river products, soil mixes, rip rap and boulders. If you need your materials delivered, our knowledgeable sales staff will ensure that your order is accurate, and our experienced drivers will get your materials to you on time. Cutting Edge Curbing Sand and Rock is equipped with a certified scale so you can be sure that you are receiving the correct amount of material that you order. If you have not been to the yard lately, come check us out. We have over 100 rock products on display so if you have rock that needs to be identified, chances are we have it here. All our curbing styles and colors are also on display for you to compare. While you’re there pick up your pavers, block, bagged goods and flagstone.
Contractor and Landscaper discounts are available as well as volume discounts for material orders over 75 tons. Valley wide delivery is always free on orders of 10 tons or more with no zone minimums to worry about. Same day service is available so if you need something today, don’t hesitate to call and see if we can get you taken care of. Are you tired of paying a crew to wait for the rock to arrive so they can spread it? At Cutting Edge Curbing Sand and Rock, we call you the night before delivery is scheduled to confirm a time window of when we will arrive so you can schedule your crew accordingly. It’s just one more way that we are working to offer our customers the best service in the industry.
Cutting Edge Curbing Sand and Rock offers 13 different styles of curbing to choose from in 16 different Davis colors. We use triple washed sand for a more uniform color to give you the finest quality cement in your concrete border. Rebar is available for installation in curbing when specified by architects or for those who are concerned about maintaining the integrity of the extrusion should any large vehicles drive over the curbing. It may be specified when 6×6 or taller curbing is required to hold back an embankment or severe drainage area. We warranty our curbing for one year against defects in materials and workmanship.
We have recently updated our yard display with new Belgard products and lighting as well as our retail store with new products arriving weekly. Stop in to see why Cutting Edge Curbing Sand and Rock has been helping our customers create curb appeal in the valley for over 24 years. We are located on 67th Avenue on the west side just south of Northern. Our address is 7540 N 67th Ave Unit A Glendale, AZ 85301. Tel. 602-3531020 Fax. 602-353-1027
Web: www.cuttingedgecurbing.com Email: info@cuttingedgecurbing. com Orders: orders@cuttingedgecurbing.com
Customer Service is #1, when doing business with Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock!
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
EVERGREEN TURF, INC.
Evergreen Turf was established 26 years ago right here in Arizona. We now have operations in New Mexico, Texas, and California. No matter which of our farms you deal with, you can be sure that we will help you choose the right grass, for the right location, grown the right way! We are your partners in choosing sustainable grasses for our harsh, low rainfall environment.
Grass in the Desert? Why, Yes! Wherever people live and play, there is a need for grass! COVID taught us a lot of lessons, (most of them we hope to never repeat), but one of the lessons that resonates with our industry, people more than ever, want to be outdoors. They want fresh air. They want to connect with nature. They want to live a healthy lifestyle. For anyone with small children or pets, that means natural grass under their bare feet! Literally!
people are working from home, realizing the need to upgrade their outdoor living space. Natural grass saw a huge resurgence as people realized that life outdoors is more pleasant with cool grass underfoot.
As we face record drought and record heat, many people feel that grass has no place in the desert, but the reality is, if people are going to live in this desert, then the responsible use of grass will be a part of our lives. How do we balance the use of grass while saving water?
At Evergreen Turf our first priority has always been to help our customers find the best grass for their specific needs. Evergreen grows more than 10 different grasses, just for Arizona, each with its own specific use to ensure the success of our recreational space in the Sonoran Desert.
The pandemic brought better than expected sales to the sod industry. The Pandemic helped increase the rounds of golf, which in turn, created a demand for sod repair work and upgrades to golf courses. Sports fields are increasing in demand as youth sports are at an all-time high. More
TifTuf has made a splash the last few years. After rigorous testing in Arizona, California, and New Mexico, we can confirm that it is the most drought tolerant bermudagrass on the market today. You will begin to see it’s use on golf courses and
sport fields first. Fairways have already been converted at Alta Mesa CC, The Biltmore, Pebble Creek GC, McCormick Ranch and a number of other local golf courses. The Arizona Cardinals have upgraded their stadium with TifTuf, and along with a number of High Schools. We are beginning to see homeowners request TifTuf as they pursue lower water bills.
As landscapes and trees mature, we see shade lines extending into grass areas. No grass can tolerate 100% shade in Arizona, but TifGrand and Palmetto St. Augustine both tolerate as little as 4-6 hours
of sunlight. The right grass for the right application!
Midiron is still king of our landscape grasses, the main reason, it is the easiest grass to maintain. The easiest to overseed, and the best transitioning grass from overseeding. It can be mowed at 3 inches or half an inch, it is drought tolerant and produces very little thatch.
Tifway is still the standard for sports turf and golf course fairways Arizona. A durable hybrid that makes a great playing surface for athletes. Grown on soil or sand.
Tifgreen, once the standard for golf course putting greens, it is now used for high quality fairways, home lawns and even a few, low use sports fields.
HORIZON DISTRIBUTORS
Opens New Location in Queen Creek, AZ to Better Serve Landscaping Professionals
PHOENIX, AZ (September 18, 2025) Horizon Distributors, a subsidiary of POOLCORP and a leading distributor of landscaping supplies, irrigation equipment, outdoor power products, and tools, is proud to announce the opening of its newest store location in Queen Creek, Arizona. This expansion strengthens Horizon Distributors’ commitment to providing unmatched service, quality products, and expert advice to landscaping and irrigation professionals in the region.
Conveniently located at 21515 E Ocotillo Rd, the Queen Creek store will serve both maintenance and construction customers with access to an extensive inventory of irrigation products, fertilizers, seed, pest control solutions, landscape lighting, outdoor power equipment, and more. With the addition of this new location, Horizon Distributors continues to deepen its presence in Arizona, providing resources to meet the growing demand for professional landscaping services in the area.
“Our decision to open a new location in Queen Creek positions us to service the growing East Valley of Phoenix Metro,” said Phil Stephens, Vice President at Horizon Distributors. “This store represents our continued commitment to providing localized support, industry expertise, and the convenience our customers expect from us. We look forward to strengthening our relationships with contractors, builders, and landscape professionals in the Queen Creek community.”
The Queen Creek store is equipped with a knowledgeable team of industry experts who are ready to assist customers with tailored solutions, cutting-edge products, and dependable service. The facility also features an efficient layout to ensure easy access to inventory and a highly efficient shopping experience.
Customers visiting the Queen Creek Horizon Distributors store will enjoy additional benefits such as:
• Expanded product inventory including extensive stock in pavers, bulk sand, pergolas, and synthetic turf.
• Access to training resources and industry insights to grow their businesses.
• Convenient hours of operation and special-order services.
• Dedicated customer support from experienced bilingual professionals in the landscaping and irrigation field.
For contact information, hours of operation, store updates, or inquiries, please visit https://horizononline.com or call the store directly at 480-944-6272.
Horizon Distributors is excited to become a part of the Queen Creek community and looks forward to providing customers with dependable solutions that keep their businesses thriving.
Horizon Distributors, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Pool Corporation, is a wholesale distributor of turf irrigation products, outdoor power equipment, fertilizers and allied products serving the professional turf, landscape and golf markets through 91 sales centers throughout the western, southwestern and southeastern U.S. Horizon distributes major national brands including Rain Bird, Hunter, Toro, Exmark, Echo, PBI Gordon, Belgard, Vista, Unique and FX Luminaire and proprietary products under its TurfGro® brand. For more information about Horizon, please visit www.horizononline.com.
CONTACT: Mary Martinez, Director of Marketing 480-337-6700 | mary.martinez@horizononline.com
BEING NEIGHBORLY WITH A LEAF BLOWER
Leaf Blowing Etiquette
We have all been awakened by a leaf blower in the neighborhood at one time or another. This essential tool in maintaining a tidy property can also become an annoyance if not used properly. Noise aside, the dust spread by blowers can cause health problems for people. But with a little awareness and courtesy, cleaning a property doesn’t have to be a disturbance to the public.
• Operators should look up frequently and be aware of anyone entering the area. This includes vehicles which may have windows open as they pass the working zone.
• Be mindful of play areas with children and remember that dust kicked up from blowers can travel some distance away.
• Follow local noise ordinances and only operate power tools during the appropriate ‘working hours’ – not too early or too late in the day. These hours can vary by location and season.
• Use lower blower speeds which produce less noise and dust. This also helps to save fuel!
• Rake plant debris into piles first to reduce the amount of time spent operating the leaf blower.
• Make sure to use the blower tube and hold it close to the ground, helping to reduce the amount of dust that becomes airborne.
• Invest in updating your equipment. Newer leaf blower models have quieter, more efficient motors, helping to reduce noise and air pollution.
In 2008, Arizona adopted a number of laws addressing the use of leaf blowers (including A.R.S. 49-457.01) that are still in effect today. These include:
• Banning blowing debris into the street.
• Banning the use of leaf blowers on dirt fields, road shoulders or on loose dirt.
• Limited use of leaf blowers on High Pollution Advisory days. To sign up for pollution advisory day email or texts alerts, go to: https://cleanairmakemore.com/make-thecommitment/sign-up-for-email-text-alerts/ Training personnel to have leaf blower etiquette can help keep the disturbance at bay while showing the residents courtesy and respect in their community. Operators should also follow safety procedures for their own protection. For more details on leaf blower training, safety and use, go to http://legacy.azdeq.gov/environ/air/download/Leaf_Blower_Training.pdf.
Photo by Aoi on Unsplash
ARIZONA LANDSCAPE
CONTRACTORS’ ASSOCIATION
2026 EDUCATION PROGRAMS
SUSTAINABLE L ANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT® (SLM®) CERTIFICATION TRAINING
Intro to sustainability as it pertains to landscape design, construction, enhancements, and maintenance. SLM® covers: site assessment, plant selection, proper planting and staking , long-term plant health care, irrigation design and efficiency, water management, proper pruning , turf care and conversion, and more.
COST: $200/Member, $400/Non-member Registration includes SLM® Book
WHERE: ALCA’S Training Room, 5425 E Bell Rd, Ste 105, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 or Online via Zoom
WHEN: Friday, January 23. Friday, June 12. Friday, November 13. Tucson dates TBD. 3.75 ISA CEUs available
SLM® Certif ication is earned upon completion of class and passing the exam with 80% or higher. Recertif ication is mandatory every 2 years. SLM® Certif ied Professionals are recognized in ALCA’s Listing of Certif ied Professionals.
ALCA’S Certif ied Irrigation Technician (ACIT ) provides technical training to improve and optimize water usage of existing irrigation systems. The curriculum includes site assessment, troubleshooting , repair, programming controllers, electrical troubleshooting , performing a water audit, and a ground fault/wire locator demonstration
COST: $525/Member, $1050/Non-member
WHERE: ALCA’S Training Room, 5425E Bell Rd, Ste 105, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 or Online via Zoom Day 3 is a mandatory in-person field day
WHEN: 3 consecutive Thursdays - March 19, March 26, and April 2 at 7:30am - 2:30pm Must attend all 3 days to get access to the ACIT Exam
Must have passed the ACLP Irrigation, or have equivalent f ield experience, including prof icient use of multi-meter to register for ACIT. ACIT Certif ication is earned upon completion of all 3 classes and passing the exam with 80% or higher. ACIT Certif ication does not expire. ACITs are recognized in ALCA’s Listing of Certif ied Professionals.
2-Wire Training includes a detailed presentation of 2-Wire Principles, followed by hands-on practice with wire connections and multiple manufacture demonstrations.
COST: $275/Member, $525/Non-member
WHERE: ALCA’S Trade Show, Heritage Sportsman’s Park at State Farm Stadium
WHEN: Thursday, February 26 at 9:00am - 1:00pm
Must have passed the ACLP Irrigation and ACIT, or have equivalent f ield experience to register for 2-Wire. Professionals receive a Certif icate of 2-Wire Competencies upon completion of training and passing the 2-Wire Certif ication Exam with 80% or higher.
RESOURCE GUIDE/AD INDEX
FLEET & VEHICLE MANAGEMENT
OnSite OilChange Plus (480) 470-0352
onsiteoilchangeplus.com
Please see our ad on page 9, 23
INSURANCE
Hill & Usher (602) 667-1848
trimrisk.com
Please see our ad on page 6
IRRIGATION PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS
Horizon (800) PVCTURF (782-8873)
horizononline.com
Please see our ad on page 22
Hunter Industries (760) 744-5240
hunterindustries.com
Please see our ad on page 4
LANDSCAPE CERTIFICATION
TRAINING/TESTING
Metro Institute (602) 452-2900
metroinstitute.com
Please see our ad on page 7
LANDSCAPE EQUIPMENT
Stotz Equipment 623-936-7131
stotzequipment.com
Please see our ad on page 17
LANDSCAPE MATERIALS
Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock
Landscape Materials (602) 353-1020
cuttingedgecurbing.com
Please see our ad on page .............................. 18
LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES
Material Delivery, Inc. dba MDI Rock (602) 569-8722
mdirock.com
Please see our ad on page 4
LIGHTING
Brilliance LED, LLC (800) 867-2108
brillianceled.com
Please see our ad on page 8
NURSERIES
All Season Wholesale Growers (602) 276-0230
allseasongrowers.com
Please see our ad on page 5
Arid Solutions Nursery (602) 437-5194
aridsolutionsnursery.com
Please see our ad on page 7
Arizona Wholesale Growers (623) 581-3100
azwholesalegrowers.com
Please see our ad on page 3
South Coast Wholesale (888) 326-7256
southcoastwholesale.com
Please see our ad on page Inside Front Cover
SOD/TURF
Evergreen Turf, Inc. (480) 456-1199
evergreenturf.com
Please see our ad on page Back Cover
West Coast Turf (888) 893-8873
westcoastturf.com
Please see our ad on page 9 TREES
Western Tree Company (602) 243-6125 westerntree.com
Please see our ad on page 5
