Landscape Ontario - December 2013

December 2013

www.horttrades.com

WATERS of REFLECTION Sasha Hunter and Chuck Catton lead volunteer build of Molema memory garden

RE LO PO AN RT NU IS AL SU E

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Key

Connections Our events provide the tools for your business to grow and prosper

• Increase brand recognition • Discover new customers • Capitalize on new markets • Source new suppliers

Canada’s Premier Green Industry Trade Show and Conference January 7-9, 2014 Toronto Congress Centre Toronto, Ontario locongress.com

Canada’s Garden Festival March 14-23, 2014 Direct Energy Centre Toronto, Ontario canadablooms.com

GreenTrade Expo Eastern Ontario’s Green Trade Show February 12, 2014 Capital Exhibition Centre Ottawa, Ontario 2013 greentrade.ca

For exhibitor or visitor information please call: 1-800-265-5656 x353

2 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2013

Canada’s fall show for the floral and garden industry October 22-23, 2014 Toronto Congress Centre North Building, Toronto, Ontario loexpo.ca

SNOWPOSIUM LANDSCAPE ONTARIO

SNOW AND ICE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE AND EXPO

Conference and Expo September 2014 Milton, Ontario

S’ LOGO

SUMERS’ RS’ LOGO , Website edia, etc.)

ON LOGO

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE It’s been an honour to represent this great association

By Phil Charal LO president

I

t is hard for me to believe that two years have passed since I became LO president, and this will be my final column before ending my term.

There have been so many great visits and conversations at Chapter events and meetings. I have enjoyed them all throughout my term, as well as being a part of the process.

I thank all LO members who allowed me the privilege to serve as their president over the past two years. I have learned a tremendous amount about our industry. It has been an honour to represent this great association. I congratulate the LO board of directors for their incredible support and passionate dedication with such conviction for the Chapters and Sector Groups they represent.

I have thoroughly enjoyed and appreci-

Formerly Horticulture Review

December, 2013 • Volume 31, No. 12 www.horttrades.com Landscape Ontario’s mandate is to be the leader in representing, promoting and fostering a favourable environment for the advancement of the horticultural industry in Ontario.

ISSN 1928-9553 Publications Mail Agreement No. PM40013519

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Department Landscape Ontario 7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 Canada

ated the support I have received from the incredible staff members who really make the job of president so much easier.

I need to give a very special tribute to our tireless executive director Tony DiGiovanni, who has been an incredible inspiration to me. He will never know how much I have learned from just being around him, and watching him promote our industry wherever he goes. He should be Toronto’s next mayor (just kidding, LO needs him more).

Each and every time I had a problem, question or did not understand something (which was often), Tony was there, morning, noon and night, including weekends.

He will be glad to be rid of me.

Every year LO meets with other landscape associations from the U.S. at the Great Lakes conference. There are representatives from eight other states around the Great Lakes. Ontario is the only Canadian member. It is overwhelming for me when attending this conference to see the incredible difference in how other associations are structured and how unique LO is when compared to our American counterparts. We have developed a very success-

Publisher Lee Ann Knudsen CLP lak@landscapeontario.com, 416-848-7557 Editorial director Sarah Willis sarahw@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5424 Editor Allan Dennis adennis@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5345 Graphic designer Mike Wasilewski mikew@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5343 Sales manager Steve Moyer stevemoyer@landscapeontario.com, 416-848-0708 Integrated solutions representative Greg Sumsion gsumsion@landscapeontario.com, 647-722-6977 Communications coordinator Angela Lindsay alindsay@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5305 Accountant Joe Sabatino jsabatino@landscapeontario.com, 647-724-8585 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO STAFF Shawna Barrett, Darryl Bond, Kim Burton, Rachel Cerelli, Tony DiGiovanni CHT, Rob Ellidge, Denis Flanagan CLD, Sally Harvey CLT CLP, Jane Leworthy, Heather MacRae, Kristen McIntyre CHT, Kathy McLean, Linda Nodello, Kathleen Pugliese, Paul Ronan, Ian Service, Tom Somerville, Martha Walsh

ful formula in establishing, maintaining and operating a very productive association.

For that I am very proud.

I am also proud of our incredible volunteer base that continually shows great passion and enthusiasm. We are the largest, and by far the most successful, horticulture trade association in the world. Our members are the biggest reason for this success.

We need to keep telling our story and continuously promote our great industry.

The green industry is very challenging.

We must contend with labour shortages, weather and the issues surrounding seasonality. If we all strive for excellence and continue to be professional and support our great association, we can not only survive these issues, but make a good living for ourselves and the next generation of green industry members.

If you are not already involved in your local chapter or sector group, I challenge you to do so. Your association needs you.

And, believe me, you need your association. I guarantee that your involvement in LO will make LO relevant to you and benefit your business in many ways.

I would like to wish our new president Dave Braun the very best for a successful term. I know he will benefit in the same ways I have over the past two years.

I would also like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and best wishes for a healthy, happy and prosperous 2014.

I look forward to seeing everyone at Congress from Jan. 7 to 9.

Phil Charal may be reached at pcharal@landscapeontario.com.

LO ANNUAL REPORT

Page 15

FOUNDATION REPORT Page 48

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FEATURES ASSOCIATION NEWS VOLUNTEER PROFILE EVENTS NEW MEMBERS RESEARCH COLUMNS CLASSIFIEDS AD INDEX

Views expressed are those of the writer concerned. Landscape Ontario assumes no responsibility for the validity or correctness of any opinions or references made by the author.

Copyright 2013, reproduction or the use of whole or any part of the contents without written permission is prohibited. Published 12x per year. Rates and deadlines are available on request.

Subscription price: $43.51 per year (HST included). For subscription and address changes, please e-mail subscriptions@landscapeontario.com

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There was no lack of manpower when construction began on Chatham’s newest park.

Memorial for Perry Molema is a tribute to his life and work

By Robert Ellidge

Less than a year after a traffic accident took the life of long-time Landscape Ontario member and water gardening pioneer Perry Molema, friends, family and colleagues from across the country constructed a memorial garden in downtown Chatham — fulfilling one of Molema’s lifelong dreams to beautify the city he cared so much about.

Constructed in just under a two weeks in November at the corner of King Street and William Street, the 7,600 sq. ft. memorial is located in Zonta Park — named after the Zonta Club of Chatham-Kent Ontario, an all-women’s club of professionals working to advance the status of women.

Tom Beaton, manager of Parks, Cemeteries and Horticulture Community Services Division for the Municipality of ChathamKent, said the Zonta Club was “just in the process of creating a memorial garden in the park for recognizing famous women.”

The club wanted the park dedicated to women who have made outstanding contributions in the community.

Since Molema and his wife Sherry both had strong roots in Chatham and were both advocates for the downtown core and its businesses, the Zonta Club, “fully supported the project and was willing to share the opportunity and kick-start plans for the rest of Zonta Park,” said Beaton.

The area chosen for Molema’s memorial acts as a gateway to the park and is “the perfect location to memorialize all of the contributions Perry has made to the municipality. Perry was always ready to give product and his time. This is an opportunity to give back,” says Beaton.

4 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2013

The idea for the memorial first started in January 2013 during the Congress trade show. Since then, two of Molema’s colleagues and long-time friends, Aquascape’s sales representative Sasha Hunter and Chuck Catton, technical service advisor, teamed up to get the project going.

Big dreams

Hunter created the design for the park and says one of the main challenges was trying to figure out where to start. “The project didn’t have a budget number attached to it,” she said. The goal was to have all of the funds, materials and labour provided in-kind and through donations. “We went grand, thinking we could always scale-back the project,” says Hunter, following words of advice Molema had instilled in her years ago. “Perry always told us that if you want something to happen, visualize it and it will happen. That’s exactly what we did. We dreamt big and didn’t have to scale anything back,” said Hunter.

Both Hunter and Catton put the word out about plans for the memorial and donations started coming in. But before any construction could commence, organizers needed approval from town council. “We were originally supposed to be on the town council agenda on Sept. 23. It kept getting pushed back and pushed back with final approval coming on Nov. 4,” says Hunter.

“Only a week before the project began, did we actually know we had approval. The last six months have been extremely stressful, but seeing everyone here makes it all worthwhile.”

Throughout those hectic months, before the official go-ahead, donations and support continued to grow. “Originally we

were going to recognize the larger contributors by having their names engraved on the largest of the rocks,” says Hunter.

“We were hoping maybe five or six people would contribute $1,000 or more for this.”

At the time of construction, there were over 30 of these contributors, posing a design problem for Hunter. “It was a good problem to have,” said Hunter. “The solution was to engrave their names on pavers spread throughout the garden. The support from people has been overwhelming,” says Hunter, including from people all over the world in places like Istanbul, Turkey and well across Canada.

Molema’s passion for water gardening was sparked long before he started travelling the world to promote it. Catton recalls how and when Molema was first attracted to the idea of water gardening, when he and Molema watched a promotional video the received in the mail. “We finished watching this video from Aquascape.

Perry and I both looked at each other and thought if this is going to do half of what it says it can do, we want to be a part of this,” says Catton. “We actually installed a water garden in Perry’s backyard and he had always said he would never put a water garden in because it was too much work and too much hassle. Within two weeks, he was praising how awesome the garden was. The next thing you know, we were installing the systems for existing customers,” says Catton.

Molema secured the rights to distribute the Aquascape system not only in Ontario, but all of Canada. With Catton doing the installations and Molema’s contagious passion and excitement, they were able to establish water gardening as a popular and successful part of the landscaping industry, creating a huge network of distributors all across Canada.

Best representative

A member of that network in Eastern Canada is Stuart Gillies, owner of Maritime Green Product and Sun Nurseries in New Brunswick, who says Molema “was the best representative, and best ambassador for growing the water gardening industry.”

Gillies, as with so many others, got into the water gardening business as a direct result of his exposure to Molema and his passion for ponding. “Everywhere he went, he (Molema) was not only an ambassador for Aquascape and for water gardening, but for Canada in general. Everywhere he would go, Perry would leave people feeling better than when they first met him.”

Gillies is both happy and proud to spend his time working on the memorial as a way to give back to Perry, who spent so much of

his time giving back to the city he loved and the people who shared his passion.

From the opposite end of the country, Aquascape’s Gord Szolnyanszky from Victoria, B.C. also felt the need to be a part of the build. “I really wanted to help out Chuck and Sasha and all of the people who have put in a ton of time making this happen, and to be a part of a tribute to Perry that will be around forever,” he says.

Szolnyanszky plans to come back for a visit in the spring to see the garden in full bloom. “The fact that it is Sasha’s design and Chuck installing the garden makes it that much more special and that would mean a lot to Perry, too,” says Szolnyanszky.

The focus of Hunter’s design is a large 8,000 lb. bubbling rock that volunteers affectionately nicknamed ‘The Chief,’ a name used adoringly for those who knew Molema well. The bubbling rock, along with several smaller sitting rocks are enclosed in a 50-foot diameter circle of permeable pavers that will not only recycle the water used for the bubblers, but also collect even more water into the RainXChange system. “The system will use only about 600 gallons of water per month,” says Catton, “yet collect about 3,000 gallons per month — capturing more water than it will actually will use.”

ering cherry, ‘Hameln’ fountain grass, ‘Kirk Alexander’ zebra grass, ‘Little Goldstar’ black-eyed Susan and ‘Peach Flambe’ coral bells.

Maintenance for the area will not be an issue for at least the next ten years, as Al Pinsonneault from Al’s Lawn and Garden in Chatham generously donated ten years of maintenance for the park.

Catton, along with many others, thinks the location is perfect. “We are so lucky to have this great spot to install this water feature, because Perry was so adamant about cleaning up the downtown area,” says Catton. “We spent a lot of time travelling the world together and we were constantly talking about ideas on how we could beautify the downtown core in Chatham. I absolutely know Perry would love it.”

Many of Molema’s family remain in the area around the park. His wife Sherry and parents, Henry and Elisabeth Molema, vis-

ited many times during the construction.

“It’s very awesome,” says Elisabeth. “Perry walked by the area where the park is now located almost every day. He loved Chatham,” she said.

“It is his town,” says Henry. “He was pretty much born and raised here. The park is way beyond our expectations,” he added.

“It is a beautiful tribute and it will be really nice for all of the people of downtown Chatham to come and sit and listen to the water and enjoy,” says Perry’s wife. “It’s making it more beautiful for everybody.”

“He had a big heart and the people who knew him the best, love and respected him the most,” said Gillies. It’s a sentiment that was echoed by many of the friends, family and colleagues who were in attendance for the build.

Plans are underway for an official opening of the memorial to be held in the spring of 2014.

Plants were personal favourites

The perimeter of the memorial is surrounded by plant material, making the area a special spot where the people of Chatham can sit to relax, and also be exposed to the beauty and benefits of water gardening.

“All of the plants we chose were Perry’s personal favourites,” says Hunter. These include eastern redbuds, ‘Kwanzan’ flow-

Volunteers to help build a park in memory of Perry Molema came from across Canada.

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Ottawa Chapter members were joined by dignitaries and military officials for the 8th annual Day of Tribute.

Ottawa continues to honour veterans Giving back to the community is a characteristic that is prevalent throughout each one of the nine chapters that make up Landscape Ontario.

Ottawa Chapter members have a long and impressive record of participating in many volunteer activities. One of the longest running is the Day of Tribute honouring members of the Canadian military and their families.

Since 2005, on the first Friday in November, Ottawa Chapter members have

gathered in every type of weather condition to volunteer their time and materials to beautify the grounds at the National Military Cemetery at Beechwood in Ottawa.

Beechwood was designated a National Military Cemetery in 2001. The grounds include 8.29 acres as the final resting place for veterans who faithfully served their country in peace and war, at home and abroad, and making the supreme sacrifice on Canada’s behalf.

The Canadian Year of the Veteran took

place in 2005 to teach, remember, honour, thank and celebrate veterans. This event motivated Sharon Rouette-Urquhart to undertake the creation of this unique Ottawa Chapter tradition.

Rouette-Urquhart of Green Unlimited contacted Ottawa Chapter members, and along with Chris Lemke and David Stewart, began the first of these events where Chapter members volunteered as their way of honouring the final resting place of many Canadian veterans and their families.

This year’s event took place on Nov. 1. While members volunteer their time, the continued support of associate mem-

Former warrant officer chairs Day of Tribute Three years ago Pete Campbell, who has been employed with Geosynthetic Systems for 10 years, remembers reading the Landscape Ontario magazine article about the Ottawa Chapter Day of Tribute.

Campbell, who had been retired from the Armed Forces for 10 years, knew right away that he wanted to get involved any way that he could with this Ottawa Chapter event.

Pete Campbell retired as a Chief Warrant Officer in the Canadian military. He joined the Forces in 1974, a year after working in Montreal.

Pete Campbell Campbell’s military career included a year in Bosnia with the United Nations, a three-month tour in Bosnia with NATO, and a three-month tour in Iraq/Kuwait in 2002. He retired from the Canadian military in 2003.

The Ottawa Day of Tribute is Campbell’s first return to an event involving military participation since his retirement. He chose to participate because he felt it was a great opportunity for him to give back to the families and veterans and does so in their honour.

When the request went out in 2012 that a new chairperson was being sought for the event, he approached Geosynthetic Systems president Kelly Mulrooney-Coté to enquire if it was

6 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2013

possible. He received resounding support from all the staff.

Campbell’s commitment to the position of event chair is evident in all levels of planning. He took it upon himself to contact all the companies involved to introduce himself and to thank them for participating. He educated himself as to what the day involved: planning, activities of aerating, seeding and spreading the gypsum, leaf blowing, and general clean up. Campbell also made a trip out to Beechwood to visit the site and meet with the staff there so that the correct amount of product and time would be allotted to the day’s activities.

Campbell has expressed that the amount of time and effort to organize the event has been a learning process, but that it is a lot less time consuming for him than for members who reorganize their schedules to volunteer their staff hours at a time when they are completing end-of-season work.

As part of this year’s event, Campbell made a quick estimate of man hours put in by participating members. If each company participates that day with five hours and had three volunteers in place, they are giving up the revenue on at least 15 man hours.

Campbell acknowledges that it is a personal choice to participate in the Ottawa Day of Tribute, which he takes very seriously. “Members are volunteering their time and their profits for an event they believe in. It makes me very proud to continue as chair of the event.”

— Martha Walsh, Ottawa Chapter coordinator

bers is crucial to the success of this event.

Long-time supporters of this event include NorleansTechnologies. Owner Fred Minduik also served in the military and has close ties that continue in his business.

Bradley’s Commercial Insurance has been a supporter of this and other Ottawa Chapter events.

The day begins with a coffee and muffin break, sponsored by Bradley’s. Peter Knippel Nursery has provided perennials and shrubs for replacement to this event for many years. Plant Products and General Seed Company provide gypsum, fertilizer and seed for application.

Attending dignitaries this year included Chief Warrant Officer David Snyder from the Canadian Armed Forces; Harry Harsch, inspecting officer of horticulture, Canadian War Graves Commission; Warrant Officer Sylvain Pilotte; Corporal Steve Prevost from Department of National Defense and Roger Boult from Beechwood Cemetery.

Ottawa Chapter members who volunteered their time this year included Peter Smit and Sons, Weedman - Ottawa, Green Unlimited, Zone 5 Landscaping and Property Maintenance, Lafleur De La Capitale, Surgenor Truck Rental and Nat-

Natural Impressions Landscaping owner Andrew Burgess, left, and Glen Beach pitch-in to help during Ottawa’s Day of Tribute.

ural Impressions Landscaping and Geosynthetic Systems.

Every member who takes the time to volunteer in this event does so for entirely

personal reasons. Many members have first-hand experience of being the child or sibling of a veteran of the Canadian military.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

With more than 600 leading manufacturers and 12,000-plus industry professionals, Congress 2014 is an event not to be missed.

Congress is right around the corner Now entering its 41st year, Congress has grown to become Canada’s premier green industry trade show and conference.

It’s the perfect place to find the new products, ideas, equipment, tools, services and connections to build a better business.

Are you planning to attend Congress 2014? If you said, “No,” then we need to talk. This annual event brings together more than 600 leading manufacturers and suppliers, along with 12,000-plus industry professionals from around the world on more than eight acres of show floor to share their products, expertise and secrets to success in this vibrant and ever-changing industry. This is the best opportunity to get caught up with industry trends, see what’s new and coming down the pipe, and meet and mingle with your peers.

Congress provides the ideal mix of

8 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2013

products and professional development where owners, managers and buyers from the green trades and horticultural industries gather together once a year to shop for new products, meet vendors, attend inspirational educational sessions and exchange ideas with thousands of fellow professionals from all industry sectors.

The conferences at Congress are the most highly anticipated landscape industry education and networking experience of the year. A dynamic speaker line-up, composed of industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs, offers an interesting variety of practical sessions, owner-only workshops and popular Lunch ’n’ Learns. This is an unparalleled opportunity to be inspired, learn about emerging industry trends and build new relationships.

Conference sessions will cover topics from how to get your business on the

front page of Google, to ways that you can reinvent your business and respond positively to a cyclical recession model.

Special owners-only workshops will focus on how to expand your business, how to understand the threats of growth and how to avoid the pitfalls.

New for 2014 is Coach’s Corner. It’s an opportunity to receive free oneon-one consultation from our speakers. It’s open to conference pass holders only; sign-up will be available on-site.

“With a full schedule of guest speakers, sessions, networking events and a show floor crammed with new and exciting products, Congress is the ideal platform for discovering innovative ways to expand your business,” says Heather MacRae, director of events and trade shows for Landscape Ontario.

Several affiliated associations and organizations also make Congress a destination for their members and hold events in conjunction with the show. Consider hosting your organization’s special event at future shows.

The popular New Product Showcase is the ideal platform for launching new and exciting items that will help improve service, set new trends and inspire customer interest throughout the 2014 season. A variety of new and improved products will be on display at Congress.

It is Canada’s largest collection of new products and services, featuring the latest tools, equipment, plants and related merchandise that industry professionals seek to meet the demands of their clientele in spring’s gardening season.

The student gardens will again be a feature of the show; welcome back to the University of Guelph’s Ridgetown Campus, and Fanshawe, Humber, Niagara and St. Clair Colleges. New in 2014 is the addition of Durham College. We all look forward to seeing how the younger generations interpret and create in their respective spaces.

Several inspiring and entertaining events not to be missed are held in conjunction with Congress: Legacy Room

— celebrating our history; Awards of Excellence ceremony featuring winners in landscape construction, maintenance and design; Annual General Meeting (AGM); Tailgate Party (includes free dinner for every badge holder); Irrigation Conference, as well as numerous hospitality suites and networking and social activities hosted by our suppliers. New in 2014 is the Feminine Factor in Horticulture. This event is designed with a female audience in mind, though everyone is welcome to attend and hear what the hot issues are in horticulture. Warmup Monday (pre-trade show) also hosts the IPM Symposium, the Landscape Designer Conference, Effective Management Short Course and the GPGB Living Walls and Green Roofs workshop. These are all separately ticketed events.

There are too many exciting sessions and events to list them all here; you have to come to Congress and see how you can Get Green in 2014. Please feel welcome to drop by the show office or the conference office and say hello. Let us know how you found your experience.

We’ve gone mobile! New for 2014, delegates can access the mobile app and have instant access to the floor plan,

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ASSOCIATION NEWS speaker and session information and the schedule at a glance. The app can be accessed at www.App.LOcongress.com.

Follow all of the activities and news from Congress 2014 on Twitter @LOEvents and join in the conversation with the hashtag #LOCongress or like Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association on Facebook to keep informed of the latest news and happenings in the green, fencing, garden and landscaping industry.

So I’ll ask again, “Are you planning to attend Congress 2014?” If you have said, “Yes,” then congratulations, you have already made your first-best decision for 2014.

For detailed information and the entire schedule of events visit www.locongress. com Registration for the trade show, conference and special events may be done on-site at the Toronto Congress Centre, South Building, 650 Dixon Rd., Toronto.

All sessions at Congress qualify for Landscape Industry Certified Continuing Education Credits (CEUs). Visit www. canadanursery.com for more details. Register for Congress at www.locongress.com.

All conference passes include admission to the trade show. Badges will be mailed to those registered by Dec. 6, otherwise badges are held for pick-up at the preregistration desk.

— Kristen McIntyre CHT, conference events manager

Georgian Lakelands chapter is saying this year’s version of its popular ski day will provide tranquility and relaxation in a winter wonderland setting.

“This annual event is not just for skiers and boarders anymore. We are introducing a new ‘twist’ on an old favourite,” says Chapter president Lexi Dearborn.

Entitled I Survived Ski and Spa Day 2014, the popular winter event for the Chapter will take place on Feb. 27.

This year Chapter hopes to entice all the non-skiers to come out to soak in the relaxing waters of the Scandinave Spa. Whether you ski, snowboard or spa, there is room for you at the family friendly winter event!

Skiing will take place at the Craigleith Ski Club on 164 Craigleith Rd., in Blue Mountain, while Scandinave Spa is on 152 Grey Road, Collingwood.

Registration is open at online at www. horttrades.com/GL-2014-ski-and-spa. Sponsorship opportunities are available.

ers and staff to include safety on the job, in the classroom or shop, or in the truck.

Relevant topics will help trainers create awareness and compliance through the interactive training framework.

The easy to use guide provides a wide variety of topics for short weekly tailgate talks. Proper implementation will lead to improved orientation, awareness and prevention of injury.

Features include health and safety tailgate meeting topics, important reminders on hazards and personal protective equipment (PPE), topics in alphabetical order and ideas to facilitate discussion and demonstrations.

Each month Landscape Ontario magazine will feature important topics that members may focus on. For December, we recommend you focus on material handling with features on large equipment. The book offers recommendations on securing loads, hazard signage safety equipment and much more. On the issue of manual handling the book provides proper lifting techniques, equipment and when to involve a crew. Did you know musculoskeletal disorders account for 43 per cent of all work-related injuries? Tailgate Talks reviews types of injuries, and how to prevent them.

To order your own copy of Tailgate Talks, go to www.horttrades.com/wst.

TAILGATE TALKS IS SIMPLE SAFETY TOOL

SAFETY GROUP REAPS BENEFIT OF WSIB REBATE

GEORGIAN LAKELANDS SKI DAY HAS NEW TWIST ON OLD FAVOURITE

Landscape Ontario Safety Tailgate Talk Talks, developed by Landscape Ontario in collaboration with Workplace Safety & Prevention Services, promotes workplace safety by providing a simple tool for train-

10 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2013

Members of LO Safety Group celebrate another year with the presentation of a cheque on Nov. 22 for $50,121.34 from WSIB. The Safety Group also marked the

Visit us at Congress Jan 7-9, 2014 - Booth #30

A few members of the Landscape Ontario Safety Group were on hand Nov. 22 to accept a cheque for over $50,000, which was divided among the member companies.

11th year that the program has operated through Landscape Ontario. Members of group share the rebate according to each company’s WSIB contributions.

Lawrence Medas, WSIB Safety Groups coordinator, told the gathering that it was encouraging to see the positive results from Landscape Ontario. “We at WSIB appreciate the partnership with Landscape Ontario,” said Medas.

The WSIB official said that the Safety Groups program helps to create a healthier and safer workplace. He listed other benefits of the program as standing out from others in the industry, planting the seeds of change, helping to design Ontario’s health and safety system, growing strong relationships among other members of the group and creating a close working relationship with the WSPS. Medas presented the symbolic cheque to Landscape Ontario, manager of education and labour development Sally Harvey CLT, CLP. Companies taking part in the 2012

Safety Group include Appleby Landscape, Boot’s Landscaping and Maintenance, Botanical Designs and Installations, Cedar Springs Landscape Group, Christine’s Touch Gardening, DenBok Landscaping, Elm Landscaping, Environs Wholesale Nursery, Hermanns Contracting, Kelly’s Tree Care, Kerr and Kerr Landscaping Property Maintenance, Lets Landscape Together, Markham Property Services, Municipal Maintenance, Oriole Landscaping, Somerville Nurseries, TBG Landscape and Woodhill Greenhouses.

LO MEMBER HELPS TO MAKE KINGSTON BETTER PLACE TO LIVE

Landscape Ontario member Western Landscape Services is working to make its city a better place to live.

A community partner with Sustainable Kingston, the landscaping firm has taken on projects to improve life in its community, while promoting the aims of

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

the group. Sustainable Kingston defines itself as an integrated community group based on the cultural, economic, environmental, and social pillars of sustainability.

In October, Western Landscape Services transformed a pavement parking spot into a livable green space for one day. In an effort to raise awareness about the use of space on city streets, the parking spot was transformed into a welcoming sitting area surrounded by mulch, plants and trees.

It took a crew of three from Western about two hours to complete the project.

Western Landscape Services also provided potted plants, trees, and grass to transform the parking space into a green space.

“We hope that this project will challenge the way planners and citizens perceive the streets, and the way they are utilized,” says Katie Wall, project and outreach coordinator with Sustainable Kingston. “By providing a welcoming space for lots of people, instead of a parking space for one car, we hope to draw more citizens downtown, and more support for local businesses.”

The project received great local media coverage. Many residents also commented that there should be more mini-parks in parking spots in downtown Kingston.

WINDSOR CHAPTER PRESENTS AWARDS OF DISTINCTION

Western Landscape Services showed how easy it is to transform a paved parking spot into a green space in the City of Kingston.

The night of Oct. 24 was a night of pride for professional members of the Windsor Chapter, when the annual Awards of Distinction was held at Walkerville Brewery.

Over 60 people, including students and employees, attended the awards ceremony and dinner.

Judges had a difficult time choosing the award winners this year.

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All the award winners from the Windsor Chapter’s Awards of Distinction celebrated another successful year.

Winning entries for 2013 are: • Landscape Effects Group won awards in Landscape Construction – Commercial, Landscape Construction – Large Residential, and Hardscape.

• Lakeshore Landscaping won awards in Landscape Construction – Large Residential and Hardscape.

• Bellaire Landscape won an award in Landscape Construction – Large Residential.

• Cedar Springs Decks and Fences Country Village won an award in Hardscape.

• Top Grade Landscape Sunrise of Windsor won awards in Landscape Maintenance – Commercial and Landscape Maintenance – Residential.

will go towards the Veterans Memorial Parkway garden that London Chapter is installing next spring. The raffle table alone brought in $900.

In the closest to the keg contest, sponsored by Baseline Nurseries and Garden Centre, the winner was Tom Davis from Beamish Landscaping, while the longest drive, sponsored by Hyde Park Equipment, was won by Mike Wardell from Rural Roots Landscaping. Best golf foursome prize was from Direct Solutions: Arden Nywending, Ben Hillen, Wes Vanderwal and Chris Hillon. The most honest golfers were from Pete Vanderley’s Lawn Maintenance and

Landscape Services.

Bobcat was overall sponsor of the day, bringing equipment for players to view, and Brampton Brick (Oaks). Fisher Landscape and Golf Supplies sponsored lunch. Echo sponsored the putting contest and Stihl sponsored supper.

Baseline sponsored golf balls and Keg, Permacon sponsored the wine, Oxford Dodge sponsored the hole-in-one contest, Huron Tractor and Gro-Bark both sponsored beverage carts.

The golf committee members were Jerry Hakkers, Jarrett Woodard, Wendy Harry CLT and Jason Zehr.

A special thank you went to the following sponsors: Williams Nursery, gold sponsor; Santerra Stonecraft, silver; Maidstone Tree Farm, silver and Vehicle Venture, silver.

Judges this year included Jay Terryberry, John Lien and Sandy MacDonald.

Chapter president Don Tellier was the evening master of ceremonies. Event organizers were Chris Power and Jay Rivait. A number of St. Clair College horticultural students were in attendance.

Check out our Facebook page for pictures from the event by visiting www. facebook.com/LandscapeOntarioWindsorChapter.

LONDON GOLF TOURNAMENT ATTRACTS 105 GOLFERS

The annual London Chapter Golf Tournament on Sept. 13 in Dorchester attracted 105 golfers this year.

The event is the Chapter’s major fundraiser for the year. This year proceeds WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 13

VOLUNTEER PROFILE Tim Cruickshanks grew into his role with the LO family

Stam Nurseries Inc.

Tim Cruickshanks began Cruickshanks Property Services in Dundas on his own, with no background in the industry.

“I started out when I was 12, cutting lawns for my neighbours.

I didn’t have a lot of contact or associates in the business. When I began the business, it wasn’t a second generation entity. So, I didn’t have many people I could turn to for advice.”

To rectify that, Cruickshanks turned to Landscape Ontario where he gained a business family to bounce things off of and learn from other people.

He attended some of the early Congress trade shows and was interested mostly in the equipment displays. “I went to my first meeting of the local Chapter around that time. I was hoping for some help with running the business better, but mostly to make local contacts.”

The first chapter meeting he went to was at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington. He recalls sitting in the back watching and listening. “It sounded good.”

It was good enough for him to return for more meetings. “The third time I attended a meeting, I arrived a little bit early. The board then would hold a meeting before the general chapter gathered.

I sort of stood at the back, waiting. A few of the board members insisted I join them, as they had finished their meeting. The next

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thing I knew I was on the board as a director! I think I was in charge of safety/first aid.”

Since those days, Cruickshanks has served as president and currently represents Golden Horseshoe Chapter on LO’s provincial board of directors.

Some of his favourite memories serving the Chapter over the years are connected with the annual chicken roast. “I also remember many meetings that occurred in the hallways or parking lots after the formal Chapter gatherings.” Cruickshanks says he got more out of those than the meeting itself.

He has come to the realization that his business and personal experiences can now be helpful to other people. “I am happy that I can now offer advice to other young owners who come to our meetings. I guess, it all comes full circle.

“Being on the provincial board as a representative, I am back learning again, and I hope I can continue to pass on valuable information and experiences as I move through the provincial level and bring some representation of the Golden Horseshoe Chapter to the board.”

Cruickshanks says, “The Chapter does become a family of sorts. When our daughter became very ill in 2003, I remember the Chapter being one of the first groups of people to send us a note and a basket in support.”

He feels that Landscape Ontario is entering a new era with many new members on the board, excellent staff and financial stability. “There are going to be many great innovations and plans with which we can move forward.”

Cruickshanks says he is happy to see the chapters hiring coordinators. “In my opinion, it is one of the most important things to happen in a long time.” He is concerned that volunteer burnout among the chapters is a big thing. “Many of us run small companies and have young families. That makes it hard to run the chapter administration as well. I know with our chapter, hiring our own parttime person has helped immensely.”

Outside of running his business and LO events, Cruickshanks values the time he spends with his wife and two children. He also spends his extra time supporting and promoting organ and tissue donations in Ontario, and around Canada and internationally.

The issue is close to his heart. “My daughter Devan was fortunate to receive a heart transplant in 2004, thanks to a generous donor and family. This of course saved her life. So, we do put a lot of effort into promoting continued organ donation.” Devan speaks at a number of events throughout the Golden Horseshoe area and the GTA on the issue of organ and tissue donations.

“This may be something I would like to expand upon at the provincial level. I am sure Devan would be happy to speak at an event.

I will have to work on that.”

There’s no more standing at the back for Tim Cruickshanks. He has grown into an important member of his LO family.

2013 ANNUAL REPORT

2013 Annual Report President’s Message

Making our association relevant to members It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as the president of Landscape Ontario for the past two years.

I thank the executive, all the board members, the LO staff and especially our tireless and committed executive director Tony DiGiovanni for the incredible support during my term as president.

All the members should know that there is never a dull moment at LO. Each and every day our staff members deal with numerous important issues in a very efficient and professional manner.

There have been many highlights over the past two years.

Volunteers

I have been truly amazed and enormously impressed with the level of commitment from LO members in regards to the giving of themselves to community projects, volunteering for all kinds of functions right across the province and devoting themselves to the promotion of the green industry and our great association.

We are the only horticulture association I know of that has chapters.

It is amazing to see the dedication of each and every board member when I visited chapter meetings across the province. It is so impressive to see the great work they do in telling our story to their chapter members and in their local community.

As the late Perry Molema of the Windsor Chapter said, “We are in the business of enhancing people’s lives.” What a great way to think about what we do for a living.

It is great to see how LO members focus on helping each other prosper. It is important that all members keep asking themselves why they are members of the association. More and more members understand that the more engaged they become with their chapter, sector group, community projects or LO functions, the more relevant Landscape Ontario becomes to them.

Flora Niagara

I was thrilled to represent LO, along with the Canadian delegation in The Netherlands, where we received sanction approval from the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) to host Flora Niagara.

Although we were disappointed that Flora Niagara did not become the great world horticulture exhibition we originally thought it would be, the experience turned out to be the best government relations program ever carried out by LO. At meeting after meeting, we were able to speak with countless politicians, boards of trade, community leaders, business leaders and the mass media.

At numerous meetings we told our story of the importance of our industry to society. Most everyone loved and supported the idea, but

the cost to put on a world class event like Flora Niagara was too much of a barrier.

Canada Blooms

Canada Blooms has grown to become one of the major indoor events in North America. Now that Landscape Ontario is managing the event, the festival is experiencing a renewal and the board members are very engaged.

It was great to hear Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne, who attended Industry Night last year, speak in glowing terms on the importance of our industry.

The 2013 Canada Blooms event saw much higher attendance numbers than previous years. We distributed over 43,000 copies of LO-produced Garden Inspiration magazines to the public.

Our trade shows are doing well, LO memberships are up and we have exceeded our budget projections in most areas. Our association is in good shape and prospering, thanks to everyone involved.

Big challenges

Few would disagree that the biggest challenges facing our industry include weather, seasonality and labour shortages.

Today’s youth seem to be shying away from the trades, despite the unemployment rate. The continued support of co-op, certification and apprenticeship programs need to be vigorously supported. Programs started earlier by LO, such as Adopt-a-High School and On-the-Job training are going to become vitally important to the future success and survival of green industry businesses.

I urge you to look into these programs and incorporate them into your business. The youth of today are our future.

Canadians appear to be turning their backs on skilled trades. At the same time, we see baby boomers stepping away from the workforce within the next decade or two. This combination will result in Canada’s skills shortages into the millions.

We must continue to improve our co-op, apprenticeship and training programs to improve our professional development.

We need to give our young people the opportunity for on-the-job experiences.

We need to push back against the education establishment that assumes the best and brightest must go to university. Let’s give more young people the opportunity to enhance the lives of others.

I thank everyone for allowing me the privilege of being your president. It was a truly great experience and has benefitted me in many ways. I encourage all of you to become involved in this great association. I promise you will benefit more than you could possibly understand.

Respectfully submitted, Phil Charal President 2012 - 2013 2013 ANNUAL REPORT 15

Treasurer’s Report

Another year of unique weather This year was certainly a unique one.

From one of the latest seasonal starts in many years, to record rainfall, we have seen it all.

Despite the trials and tribulations of dealing with the weather, many members I have spoken with are still holding their heads high and are still smiling.

It just goes to show the resilience and depth of character among our vast membership. It makes me proud to be associated with such hard working and dedicated people.

Too many events to mention here again captured the public eye this year, further spreading the word of Landscape Ontario and the Green for Life brand. A key success was the ongoing tireless efforts of the Veterans’ Memorial Parkway in London to create a fitting tribute to the men and women who allowed us the freedom to now do what we love.

The Landscape Ontario garden at Canada Blooms wowed the public again this year. As always, members showed up to let the pub-

lic know that Landscape Ontario and its members are dedicated to the improvement of the environment and the public’s quality of life in their green spaces.

Despite continued downturns in associations as a whole in North America, Landscape Ontario is still a stable environment where we continue to grow. This is evident in this year’s surplus of $82,317, even though we only budgeted for $1,099.

The surplus was allocated as follows: Technology Fund, $40,000 and Promotion Fund, $20,000. The Horticultural Industry Development Fund received the balance of $22,317.

We should all be proud of what Landscape Ontario is able to accomplish and promote on behalf of its members.

As your treasurer, I wish you all a productive and prosperous upcoming season.

Respectfully submitted, Paul Brydges Treasurer 2013

Executive Director’s Report

Contribution of members continues to amaze and inspire Landscape Ontario is very fortunate to have many engaged and dedicated members committed to growing a prosperous, professional, ethical, valued and recognized industry. Even after 24 years, I continue to be amazed and inspired at the level of contribution from the chapters, sector groups, committees and boards. The annual report gives you a glimpse of the great work happening everywhere. Here are some highlights.

There are two defining and related characteristics and challenges in our industry. One is weather and the other seasonality.

In the spring of 2013, the weather was terrible. Many of the members started off the late spring a little depressed and when spring/ summer finally arrived it was difficult to keep up. We were fortunate that autumn provided some great weather to finish the season.

Most sectors are reporting satisfactory seasons. Garden centres never caught up to lost spring sales, but seem to be doing fine at the end of the season. The irrigation sector suffered because of more than adequate rainfall. Contractors are generally reporting a better year than 2012, with positive forecasts for the next few years. Growers definitely did better this year. The lawn care sector is in dire need of effective plant protection tools. One common complaint in all sectors is the lack of qualified staff.

Highlights of 2013

It might seem odd to start the highlight list with the topic of ‘clarity of purpose,’ however, purpose is what motivates, mobilizes, inspires and engages. Last year Ryan Heath gave me a book by Simon Sinek called Start with Why. The theme resonates. I have always been in

16 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

awe of the level of commitment shown by our members energized by the important purpose of the association. However, articulating and communicating the purpose is not as simple as it might seem. Most of us just feel it.

Mark Mallette from the Ottawa Chapter started a LinkedIn discussion about the value proposition of Landscape Ontario. Not many of you responded to the question, but most of you retain your membership year after year. Why? The way I view our purpose was shaped by something that the late Perry Molema said at a chapter meeting years ago. He said we are in the business of enhancing lives. What a great way to look at what we do as an association and what we do as businesses and individuals.

Another purpose statement that inspires was coined by Bob Tubby. Bob looked at association life through the filter of two words, ‘prosperity partners.’ Landscape Ontario members focus on helping each other prosper. This is another great way of articulating our purpose. It is important that all members keep asking why they are members of the association. It is even more important to act in realizing that purpose.

Perry Molema Memorial Garden

Perry Molema was a long-time member and contributor to the association. It was not surprising that when he tragically passed away last year, that his many friends and family came together to build a garden in his memory. The garden is located in downtown Chatham. See the cover and feature story in the December 2013 issue of Landscape Ontario magazine. The industry always reflects its best attributes and values when they come together to create a community legacy using the tools of their profession.

2013 ANNUAL REPORT

Landscape Ontario’s garden drew rave reviews from those attending Canada Blooms in March.

Chapter and local relevance

Most landscape associations are disbanding the chapter system because of cost and the ongoing administrative difficulty in recruiting and training new leadership. Landscape Ontario has done the opposite. Our board feels we must increase our relevance close to home.

We spent a great deal of time this year defining our local vision. We changed the formula to provide more resources to chapters. We also centralized the accounting to allow more time to focus on chapter activities. The goal of the enhanced chapters is to: • Maximize networking opportunities by hosting professional and stimulating events • Create relationships with local governments and schools • Raise awareness for the societal benefits of our industry and members at the local level • Stimulate opportunities for our members’ businesses • Protect our sector from laws or policies that would harm our members’ businesses • Set our members apart as caring and competent professionals • Build our future by promoting the benefits of our sector to all levels of education • Develop relationships with the public and community • Raise awareness for Landscape Ontario members as trusted and competent professionals • Improve brand recognition and image by participating in community events that leave a legacy of benefit.

Membership growth

Our membership has remained fairly stable for the last few years.

The year 2013 showed some moderate growth (See the membership graph later in the report). Compared to our counterparts in North America, we are going against the trend. Most have suffered through significant declines in membership and revenues caused by a serious economic downturn. We have a lot to be thankful for in Ontario.

Flora Niagara

Although we were disappointed we could not raise enough money to host an international horticultural exhibition in Niagara Falls, without a doubt the Flora Niagara experience was the best government relations program with which we have ever been involved. We were able to speak to many politicians, boards of trade, community leaders, business leaders and the media. At countless meetings, we were able to tell the story of the importance of our sector to society. Most were very supportive of the idea, however, the cost was the main barrier.

Canada Blooms

Canada Blooms has grown to become the largest horticulture event in North America. Over 230,000 people attended in 2013. Landscape Ontario is now managing the event. The festival is experiencing a renewal. The board is very engaged. A strong committee structure has been developed to channel the amazing volunteer participation.

Last year, Premier Kathleen Wynne attended Industry Night at Canada Blooms and talked in glowing terms about the importance of the industry. She also presented an award to Sheridan Nurseries to commemorate its 100th anniversary.

The gardens were spectacular. The attendance was higher than the previous year. We distributed 43,000 Garden Inspiration magazines. The members involved in the LO garden did an amazing job.

Association activity and staff

All departments, Events and Trade Shows, Education, Membership and Communications, have done well. We exceeded our budget projections in most areas. We hired a new salesperson to focus on the trade shows and magazines. The professional development programs continue to be very popular, attracting thousands of members to over 200 educational events including Contractors’ Lecture Series, Lighting Symposium and Smart About Salt training. Our/your staff is incredible.

They own the mission. I am very proud to be associated with them.

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 17

New Educational Institutional Policy

In order to recognize the important role that educational institutions play in our future, the board developed a special policy change. Each school is charged one institutional fee equal to horticultural membership status. This one fee will include all teachers.

Connecting Educators

In October, Landscape Ontario hosted the Connecting Educators event. This was the first time that all levels of education came together with the industry and related government officials to share ideas and support each other. The event went very well. Important issues, barriers and opportunities were defined and discussed. This has long been part of our strategic plan. Thanks to Sally Harvey, Kristen McIntyre and Shawna Barrett for their hard work in organizing the event. Thanks, also, to Michael Pascoe for his great skill in moderating the sessions.

Property sale

As of this writing we are still in the middle of a property sale. If successful, we will sell 23 of our 48 acre parcel for $8,740,000. This will allow us to accelerate industry development activities. The deal has been stalled because of issues around severances and water retention ponds. The deal was supposed to have closed this past August.

If successful, the transaction should be completed early in the new year.

New hardscape committee

The former ICPI (International Concrete Paver Institute) Ontario Chapter has been transformed into the Landscape Ontario Hardscape Committee. The committee is focused on offering ICPI certification.

Research projects

Innovation and research is the lifeblood of any industry. This is why it was so important for Landscape Ontario to support Vineland Research and Innovation Centre. Based on this support, we now have a research chair totally dedicated to our sector. Dr. Darby

McGrath is a wonderful addition to the Vineland team. In a short time, she has already worked on a number of research projects that could stimulate a great deal of economic and environmental benefit. One important project is called Greening Highways. It aims to determine optimum practices for better survival of highway plantings. Here is a list of research projects administered by Jamie Aalbers. Jamie Aalbers wrote a report on the research program at Landscape Ontario.

“Since 2009 there have been more than 20 research projects managed by LO that have been designed by LO members to find solutions to issues that impact nursery production and landscape maintenance. Through eight different funding programs, generously offered by the federal and provincial governments over those years, LO has been able to contract researchers at the universities in Guelph and Waterloo and the Vineland Research and Innovation Centre to complete research related to the following: • Ontario Grown Tree Liners • Alternatives to Ash plantings • Novel methods to control Verticillium in nursery stock • Biology and management of diseases in Buxus microphylla • Functional biopesticides for the lawn care industry • Comparison of steaming and solarisation for control of weeds as an alternative to herbicides • Supporting growers with IPM and growing advice through a nursery technical analyst/nursery researcher at VRIC • Development of trap plants for the control of black vine weevil in nursery production • Development of IPM programs to increase nursery biosecurity • Improvements to nursery irrigation efficiency and the development of an on-line pH and nutrition calculator (www.flowerboy.ca) • Development of a novel, in-ground delivery tool for water, fertilizers and fungicides • Accessing genetics for a breeding program to develop woody edible ornamentals • Improved nutrient use efficiency with regards to controlled release fertilizers • Managing the threat of boxwood blight

Visits by the membership department to members at their jobsites resulted in many positive comments. Green Ventures Landscape Care crew members from the Waterloo Chapter take a break on the job, while Grout, the LO Gnome, makes a new friend with Grieve Home Maintenance of the Golden Horseshoe Chapter.

18 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

2013 ANNUAL REPORT • Understanding the requirements for successful tree plantings in harsh environments such as roadsides and cities • Development of an online nursery IPM database and tool for pest management and production issues on farm • Developing characterization data of nursery process water, including grower support for water related issues • Evaluating effectiveness of constructed wetlands for filtering nursery irrigation water • Development of a common SKU for nursery products and a cost of production template for the Ontario nursery sector • Development of a digital database of nursery pests (www.dkbdigitaldesigns.com/clm/) “With an investment of $144,000 of industry cash and $151,000 of in-kind from LO and LO members, another $1.15 million was contributed by these matching programs to support research efforts that totalled $1.45 million. The The London Chapter has gained huge coverage on its Veterans Memorial Parkway project. return on investment is clearly in the favour of all LO members when we can partner with the generosity Garden centre of the provincial and federal governments. The return becomes even employee training program greater for LO when you start to consider the answers these projects The Garden Centre Sector Group, in partnership with CNLA, commishave provided to members as they approach the day-to-day problems sioned a new garden centre employee online training program in partin their businesses. On top of that, working with VRIC on many of nership with LS Training. these projects has allowed for the building of a strong research team that can respond to, and find solutions for, the horticulture sector.

Veterans Memorial Parkway “Remember that in 2009, there were no researchers remaining The London Chapter is continuing its great work in the ongoing at Vineland, let alone any who could help with nursery/landscape development and maintenance of the Veterans Memorial Parkway issues. In 2013, there is now a fulltime nursery scientist, a joint-chair in London. Thanks to the huge amount of time and effort from Grant in Environmental Horticultural (with the U. of G.), a research team Harrison, Mike Martins and Barry Sandler, the project is well on its dedicated to pest management and pathology and an active breeding way to realizing its ambitious vision. This year over 400 caliper trees team which includes ornamentals as well as edible horticultural crops were added along the highway. in the activities within their programs. For a relatively small investment LO has been able to partner with and influence the growth in horticulLawn care tural research and development capacity in Ontario.”

Accredited company investigation

Work is progressing to determine the best way to accredit companies.

This project originally initiated by Tim Kearney is now being developed by PLANET and CNLA with assistance from provincial members across Canada. The concept should be unveiled at the end of 2014.

Dry Stone Walling Institute

We started a Dry Stone Walling Institute in conjunction with Dean McLellan. The Institute is aligned with the British Dry Stone Walling Association. The first training/certification event was held early May. Internationally renowned dry stone waller Andrew Loudon helped with the training events at both Landscape Ontario home office and in Collingwood.

technician certification

The Lawn Care Sector Group is working with CNLA and PLANET on promoting lawn care certification. We will invest in an online training program to support the certification effort.

Grounds Management Property Managers’ Guidelines

In response to requests to improve and modernize grounds maintenance guidelines, the Grounds Management Sector Group developed a document that will help property managers and owners to understand what they should be asking for from landscape maintenance contractors. In the new year, the group will initiate a communication campaign to promote Landscape Ontario members as trusted professionals.

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 19

Trees for Life

We are participating in Trees for Life — Urban Tree Coalition. This coalition was formed by Mark Cullen. The goal of Trees for Life is to achieve 40 per cent urban tree cover. Trees for Life is a campaign aligned with the Green Infrastructure Coalition. This exciting and important initiative has the potential to leave a lasting legacy of benefit for generations.

Green Infrastructure Coalition

The coalition’s goal is to raise awareness for the societal benefits of living green infrastructure, and to make a case for treating green infrastructure the same way governments treat grey infrastructure.

The coalition has received its second grant. It now has a full-time staff member. One of the priorities is to launch Trees for Life.

Grey to Green Conference

We supported the first Grey to Green Conference, held in Toronto last May. The organizers’ mandate is to raise awareness for the value of green infrastructure to improve the quality of life and reduce costs related to grey infrastructure.

Gardens and tourism conference

We supported the gardens and tourism conference, which brought together officials from public gardens across the world to work together to promote garden tourism. The conference was held in Toronto last March. The horticultural industry is the natural beneficiary of heightened awareness of the value of garden experiences.

International Society of Arboriculture

Landscape Ontario is now managing the International Society of Arboriculture Ontario Chapter. Thanks to the great work of Kathleen Pugliese and Joe Sabatino, we are assisting ISA with its mission to promote the benefits of trees.

Smart About Salt Council

Landscape Ontario is a charter member of the Smart About Salt Council. The Council oversees an accreditation program that reflects professional snow operations and salt stewardship.

Salt rate research

We have commissioned research to determine the correct amount of salt application based on weather conditions. There are no salt standards for parking lots anywhere in the world. Once the standard is validated, it will have a huge impact on stewardship and liability.

Member visits

The Membership Services department, under the leadership of Denis Flanagan, started an onsite member-visitation program. LO staff members supply water for the employees and a thank you plaque for the members’ customers. They also bring a celebrity, Grout, with them and tweet photographs of the visit. The members are very appreciative of the effort.

Pioneer project

In our continued celebration of our 40th anniversary, we are working on a pioneer website and videos. Please go to this site to learn about our pioneers www.horttrades.com/history.

20 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

Premiers’ Conference

The Premiers visited Ontario in July. Mori Gardens and Mori Nurseries built a display to showcase the industry.

HR Employer toolkit

If you have not already used the Human Resource kit, you should. It is a great resource. Here is the link www.horttrades.com/HRToolkit.

Landscape Gardener definition

We continue to lobby for a broad definition of Landscape Gardener within the Employment Standards Act. With respect to irrigation, the MOL policy and the court decisions do not align.

Landscape Designers Name Act vs Landscape Architects Practice Act

We are collaborating with the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA) investigating the feasibility of developing a Name Act for Landscape Designers at the same time as OALA, which currently has a Name Act, is investigating the development of a Practice Act. A Practice Act prohibits unqualified individuals from calling themselves landscape architects and from practicing the profession. A member of our Designers Sector Group, Ron Koudys CLD, is the liaison on the OALA committee.

College of Trades and regulation of the trade

The new College of Trades is now operational. This will allow the industry to become regulated (if desired). Landscape Ontario has begun the exploration process to determine potential merits of regulating the horticulture industry. All chapters and sector groups are engaged in a lively discussion on the pros and cons of licensing.

Pan Am Games 2015

We have had a number of discussions with the Pan Am Games about integrating horticulture. Some ideas being explored include using Pan Am Games as a theme for Canada Blooms 2015, developing the Pan Am rose and building garden vignettes for the show.

Pest control products

We continue our government relations work to encourage the acceleration of safe pest control products. The industry and public is finding it extremely difficult to keep up weed and insect infestations.

Water

We are involved with municipal water departments, positioning members as experts in water stewardship. We hosted two educational events in partnership with the regions of Halton, Peel and York.

This is a brief summary of the activities of your association. There is much more to report, but space only allows for a summary. The association is blessed with a very active membership who care about the industry and each other.

Respectfully submitted, Tony DiGiovanni CHT Executive Director 2012 - 2013

2013 ANNUAL REPORT Public Relations Report

PR valued at nearly $2-million Alan White and I participated in the CNLA Public Relations Committee to identify and plan national activities between provinces for events, such as Arbor Week, National Tree Day, Canada’s gardening days and Green for Life community awards.

Consumer website

The Landscapeontario.com website continues to experience increased visits, with many members reporting that they receive business enquiries through the site. A popular feature is the gardening questions which are answered through our partnership with The Master Gardeners.

Association of Garden Writers

We once again organized a meeting for the garden writers at Garden Expo, where they were exposed to new plants and products, resulting in several articles and blogs being written, which provides a boost for our Associate members.

Canada Blooms

In 2013 Blooms continued to be a major showcase for our industry, once again with outstanding media coverage.

Awards of Excellence

A press release was distributed to the media highlighting the winners in all categories. Many members also took advantage of our customized press release service to promote their company’s achievements to local media. The awards event was also highlighted by CityTV’s Frank Ferragine.

Chapters

All chapters did an amazing job of promoting the local membership through home shows, garden shows, garden tours, and community events. These were all captured and recorded in your Landscape Ontario magazine. LO staff also aided the Chapter to garner local media coverage where possible.

Mark Cullen

Mark Cullen has been a great promoter of Landscape Ontario in 2013, featuring many of our projects in The Toronto Star and on his website.

Enterprise Canada

We continued our monthly contract with Enterprise in 2013, to develop, distribute and promote a monthly press release for the industry, our members and our trade shows. As part of the contract, the Provincial Board receives a detailed report capturing the scope and value of the public relations work carried out at Landscape Ontario.

Records show that total estimated media impressions were 10,890,205, for an estimated PR value of $1,741,124.

The following is a summary of all the events that were sent to mass media outlets. January: Congress Trends, Congress Awards of Excellence, Congress Best Booth, Congress wrap-up; April: Proper lawn maintenance to protect the environment; May: Benefits of attending at a trade show, Benefits of exhibiting at a trade show, Living Green Infrastructure Declaration, Backyard Glam Tour; June: Green lawn reflects green lifestyle (release localized for regional markets), Sneak peek offered at professional gardens in the London area; July: Container gardening (another local release); August: Find Inspiration at Landscape Ontario’s Garden & Floral Expo 2013, Incorporate some green in the urban landscape, Modest growth fuels optimism in the green sector, Provided Tweets to promote Expo; September: Why attend a trade show?, Fall Gardening brings Spring Colour; October: Preserving our connection with nature, Tomorrow’s hot trends on showcase at Garden & Floral Expo 2013, Expo Awards of Excellence, Expo Best Booth, Do more with less - Expo wrap-up release; November: Deck the halls with real boughs of holly, Selecting the right tree for the holidays.

Respectfully submitted, Denis Flanagan CLD Director of Public Relations and Membership Services 2012 - 2013

Canada Blooms provides a significant opportunity for Landscape Ontario to promote the industry to the public.

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 21

2013 Chapter reports The regional needs of the members are served through a network of nine chapters. Through monthly meetings and promotional activities, the chapters represent an ideal way for member companies to keep abreast of local industry concerns. The two most sought after membership benefits — education and networking opportunities — are provided through the association’s regional chapter structure.

I have enjoyed another year as president of the Durham Chapter and working with members of our board.

Durham

Georgian Lakelands

President: Greg Scarlett CHT Past president: Brian Marsh Provincial board representative: Brian Baun Vice president: Ed Hewis Secretary/treasurer: Carol Fulford Directors: Brian Baun, Norm Mills, Brian Marsh, April Scarlett, Mark Humphries

Respectfully submitted, Greg Scarlett CHT President, 2012-2013

President: Jeffrey Lee Past president: Mike LaPorte CLT Treasurer/Provincial Board representative: Gary MacPhail Directors: Lynne Barnes, Andrew Beattie CIT, Earle Graham, Kevin Hackson CLT On Sept. 14, Georgian Lakelands Golf Tournament was held at Horseshoe Resort, Highlands Course in Barrie with over 60 golfers taking to the fairways. Even though it was a bit soggy, golfers had a great time on the course and the event raised over $2,700 to go towards green community projects.

In early December, member and non-member companies attended an information meeting in Collingwood at Cranberry Resort with guest speaker, Sally Harvey CLP, CLT. Sally discussed bringing an apprenticeship program the Georgian Lakelands area.

With close to 30 companies attending, the Chapter found great support for this initiative. This event was followed by two job fairs. Both employers and job seekers benefited from attending the horticulture industry job fairs. Barrie hosted the first Simcoe Muskoka Horticultural Apprenticeship Job Fair, with the second event held in Collingwood.

The fairs gave high school and post-secondary students the chance to meet with prospective employers, and explore the great learning and career opportunities offered through apprenticeship. Employers sought to recruit new talent, and learned how apprenticeship can

The Durham Chapter held meetings on the first Tuesday night of each month, usually at the Quality Suites in Oshawa.

August 2012: Durham Chapter’s annual barbecue was held at Arnts Topsoil in Whitby. There were 27 suppliers in attendance and it was the best turnout yet. On a beautiful and sunny day, over 225 people enjoyed roast beef on a bun, corn-on-the-cob and refreshments. It was an afternoon of great food and networking October 2012: Parkwood Estates hosted a guided tour of the majestic grounds, as well as the estate house and greenhouse. The history of the property was discussed as well as the future relationship between the Durham Chapter and Parkwood. It was an enjoyable and informative tour with refreshments served in the tea room.

November 2012: A presentation on Processes, Performance and Profitability was given to an attentive audience. It was well received, giving business owners the how-to of using process-based management to improve your bottom line.

February 2013: The Chapter welcomed guest speaker George Urvari, from Oriole Landscaping, who discussed how he uses LMN at his own company for everything from estimating and profitability of landscape projects to income statements. It was an informative look into an effective tool to manage your business.

March 2013: We had a great turnout of 26 members to our Chapter meeting. Valerie Whalley from Workplace Safety and Prevention Services talked about a checklist for the Healthy and Safe Workplace. Ed Paradis of MTO talked about a facility audit. Elections to the Chapter’s executive board remained the same with no new nominations.

It has been another successful year and I would like to take the opportunity to thank all of the board members for their continuous support. Also, thank you to all the companies that donated items towards door prizes at our meetings. And, a big thank you to Carol Fulford who always goes beyond the call of duty as treasurer to keep all of our meetings running smoothly, and for the additional time spent in The first-ever Back Yard Glam Tour included gardens created by Landscape Ontario organizing events for the Chapter. members in Hanover (Southern Grey County) and the Georgian Bay area (Thornbury).

22 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

2013 ANNUAL REPORT help advance the careers of their current employees. We would like to say a big thank you to the Simcoe Muskoka Workforce Development Board for sponsoring these events.

In late January, over 30 members and their staff enjoyed lunch and guest speaker, Don Komarechka, who spoke on Taking a Great Photograph. Komarechka is an award-winning nature and landscape photographer. Everyone picked up a few tips from him. He stated, “Photographs are the first impression a potential customer has — you have one chance. Don’t compromise.”

The annual Ski Day was blessed with over 20 cm of snow for the Feb. 8 event with 45 members, staff, and family taking to the hills.

There was tons of fun with the Poker Run, where participants collected clues from around the resort to make a poker hand. The annual race down the hill for the fastest and most cautious skier awards also created a lot fun. Skiers enjoyed breakfast, lunch and après ski at Craigleith Ski Club in Collingwood.

The annual Spring MTO Tune-up with Officer Hank Dubee is always our most popular Chapter meeting. In March, over 80 people, representing close to 40 companies, attended this presentation and discussion. Designed to help members and their staff take a proactive approach to compliance, this meeting helped everyone get ready for the road. The Chapter provided a light lunch, allowing attendees to mingle and talk.

In later March, LO’s membership coordinator Helen Hassard led over 20 Chapter members and their staff in a Best Practices and Lessons Learned Round Table. Held in Wasaga Beach, the afternoon round-table covered four topics, Do you charge for Design Work?, Social Media (Good and Bad), Time Wasters in your Company and Contract Writing. Everyone was given the opportunity to select a topic table and 30 minutes for discussion. At the end of the 30 minutes, members moved to a different table and topic for another 30 minutes of discussion. At the end of the session, members shared their ideas and tips from each of the groups. Chapter elections were conducted with the Annual General Meeting held after the round-table discussions.

Every year on the Saturday of the Easter weekend, Georgian Lakelands Chapter members set up at the Beaver Valley Arena in Thornbury for the Beaver Valley Outreach’s Eggstravaganza. Last year, our Fill the Landscape Trailer food drive collected 260 pounds of food and distributed 50 Garden Inspiration magazines to participants. A prize for the most pounds donated was a gift certificate to Ormsby’s Garden Centre in Meaford, an LO member. It went to Betty Ross, who brought in 14 pounds of food. The Easter Food Drive has become a traditional part of the Eggstravaganza, and the Chapter hopes to increase the amount of food collected next year to 500 lbs.

The Creemore and Thornbury garden shows, held in late March and mid-April, are wonderful opportunities for Chapter members to get the word out to the public about our association. Chapter members set the stage for the guest speakers by creating and building raised gardens, while other members were in attendance as guest speakers, volunteers at the ‘Ask Us’ booth and as a show participants.

Dean McLellan, of the Dry Stone Walling Institute, provided a twoday hands-on course on dry stone installations. Offered in Collingwood at Maxwell’s, the course was open to stone wallers, masons, landscapers, and enthusiasts of all abilities. The event was operated under the umbrella of Landscape Ontario. McLellan, along with two Master Craftsmen from the Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain, gave 12 stone wall students a rare opportunity to learn from the world’s finest.

Respectfully submitted, Lexi Dearborn President, 2013 - 2014

Golden Horseshoe

President: Fiore Zenone Vice president: Jeff Smith Treasurer: Bruce Wilson Secretary: Fran MacKenzie Past President/Provincial Board Representative: Tim Cruickshanks Directors: Andrew Barz, Dan Grieve CLP, Dan MacLean, David Pierce, John Bos CLT, Paul DeGroot, Rob Mendonca Many of our members do outstanding work every day, either at residences, public properties or businesses, and using Facebook is a great way to showcase them. The Golden Horseshoe Chapter’s new Facebook page is a great tool to promote all the great projects our members are involved in, along with keeping current with events.

Fun dominated at the Golden Horseshoe Chicken Roast in September of 2012 with over 200 people attending. Legends Landscape Supply in Burlington hosted this year’s event. Along with great barbecued chicken, visitors enjoyed a fire-eating dancer, a face-painting clown, a bungee run, busker act and a chance to win many great prizes. Funds raised from the raffle went towards Miracles for Mitch, a fund to assist Mitchell Condren, who was paralyzed in a dirt biking accident. Long-time Chapter board member Walter Hasselman was presented with a gift for all his dedication and hard work on the board, before he stepped down last year. Many thanks again to Legends Landscape Supply for the awesome event.

Golden Horseshoe has new coordinator

Directors on the Golden Horseshoe Chapter board and home office interviewed Lee Rozon for the position of Chapter Coordinator. Prior to this, the Chapter Board worked to find ways to improve meetings and events for our members. After much discussion, we realized that we needed to get some outside help to accomplish our goals. A committee was formed within the board to seek out and hire some outside help. With the help of home office, we put out several ads throughout the year. We narrowed the list down to the best candidate, Lee Rozon.

She has great enthusiasm and prior work experience in the industry, including executive director of Communities in Bloom — Ontario. It did not take long for the board to realize that Rozon was a perfect fit for the chapter.

Rozon has been busy this year working to help improve the Golden Horseshoe Chapter. Our coordinator enthusiastically looks forward to helping the Chapter enjoy the many events it holds throughout the year and encourages members to forward ideas and suggestions to her directly at lrozon@landscapeontario.com.

In October, 2012, representatives of the Golden Horseshoe Chapter presented cheques to the Niagara College and the Mohawk College Horticultural Departments. The money was to help students in financial need who were enrolled in the landscape and horticultural programs. The Golden Horseshoe Chapter has always supported local horticultural partners, and this year, the Chapter board decided to extend additional support to local education institutions within the Golden Horseshoe. The Chapter raised the funds through its annual golf tournament and social events.

Also in October, 2012: The Golden Horseshoe Chapter held a very informative meeting on Snow and Ice control, featuring two industry leaders Robert Roszell of Tuff Tech Bags and Brian Perras of B.P. Landscaping and Snow Removal. Both speakers have grown exceptionally well-managed businesses and shared their secrets to a captivated audience. The lunch meeting took place at the Appleby Ice Centre in Burlington.

The Golden Horseshoe Chapter brought a bus-load of fans to the 2013 ANNUAL REPORT 23

Golden Horseshoe Chapter helped a Burlington school improve conditions, when it planted ten trees during Arbor Day.

Rogers Centre in November, 2012, for a great match-up between the Argos and the Ti-Cats. Fun was had by all in this nail biting game that tied until the last minute when the Argos won with a final score of 43-40. Special thanks to sponsors Permacon, Techniseal, and TechoBloc.

At the November 2012 Chapter meeting, members expressed concerns, discussed current issues, trends and possible solutions at the President’s Rant, facilitated by Tony DiGiovanni, LO executive director.

The February, 2013 Chapter meeting was about driving more leads, sales and profits for your landscape business. The meeting featured two parts: Online marketing and Workplace Safety and Prevention Services representatives. Dynascape sponsored the event.

The Annual General Meeting was held at Cap Brick in March, 2013, prior to a seminar by MTO officials. With over 100 members in attendance, a new executive was elected for the 2013/2014 term.

Special thanks go to the dedication of the outgoing board and members welcomed the new board of directors, including Allard Devries and Tim Rivard, who would begin their term in September 2013.

This year’s Golden Horseshoe Chapter MTO Spring Event was a huge success with a full capacity crowd, hosted by Cap Brick Building Products in Burlington. Ministry of Transportation officers Ian Walters and Mark Bonner held an interactive presentation on road safety, and sharing their insights into MTO regulations for commercial vehicles.

This event was made possible through the generosity of our host Cap Brick and their sponsors Techo-Bloc, Unilock, Permacon and BonRoy Services. Attendees arrived from the region, ranging from Ancaster to Welland and in-between. Of the 126 who attended the event, over half were LO member companies, accompanied with their employees.

The Golden Horseshoe Chapter is always looking to build stronger ties to the community. One such project that the group has supported year after year is the annual Arbor Day tree planting. This year the Golden Horseshoe members were present at the King’s Road Public School in Burlington. The Chapter co-sponsored the donation of trees along with Connon’s Nurseries NVK. The trees were planted on the site with the help of students, teachers and local City Council members.

Each student was provided with a package of tree seed nuts to plant at home (in partnership with the Haldimand Stewardship Council).

24 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

I would like to thank all the board members for their time and dedication to the Chapter. Without you, we could not be successful. Also thanks to Lee Rozon for being patient with our laid-back approach to how we run things. You have brought forth some great ideas and changes that will definitely benefit the chapter in the future.

Respectfully submitted, Fiore Zenone President 2012 - 2013

London

President: Jarrett Woodard Past president: Grant Harrison CLTT, CLTO Provincial Board representative/Treasurer: Peter Vanderley CLP Secretary: Nicola Kemp Directors: Derek Geddes, Jerry Hakkers, Mike Martins, Paul Snyders, Jason Zehr The London Chapter has had a very active and busy season.

Veterans Memorial Parkway Planting: On Oct. 20, 2012, the London Chapter partnered with the Veterans Memorial Parkway Community Project, City of London and many local businesses. They all converged on the busy highway to plant 300 two-inch caliper native trees. This was the first major planting initiative the London Chapter has taken part in, and thanks to our dedicated members the planting went very successfully.

Chapter Trailer: In the spring, London Chapter decided to purchase a small trailer that we take to local events and in which we store equipment. The trailer is wrapped in full colour graphics that promote Landscape Ontario and our local Chapter. Look for the London Chapter trailer at the next event.

London Lifestyles Show: Once again we participated in the London Lifestyles Home Show in January. We had a chance to speak with many show attendees, promote our community projects: the Veterans Memorial Parkway Project and the Landscapes of Excellence Tour.

London Chapter was also responsible for decorating the Boulevard

2013 ANNUAL REPORT of Dreams main walkway through the show. Chapter volunteers constructed fantastic floral planter arrangements that were placed along the entire Boulevard.

Sarnia Home Show: In April, the Chapter participated in the Sarnia Home Show for the first time in recent years. We were able unveil our new Chapter trailer and had a table set up near the main presentation stage. The show was well attended and we answered a lot of horticultural and gardening questions from the show’s attendees. Thanks to the Sarnia area members who helped to run the show.

London Home and Garden Show: The London Home and Garden Show is the largest spring garden show in the Chapter’s area. We were on-hand to once again promote the Green for Life movement and tell people about our community projects. Thanks to all of the volunteers who helped out.

Landscapes of Excellence Tour: The 5th annual London Chapter Landscapes of Excellence Tour showcased six member gardens on July 26, 2013. We had a beautiful sunny and hot day, and all of the attendees got to view topnotch landscapes designed and installed by Landscape Ontario members. The gardens entered this year were second to none and really showcased the talent of our members. We can’t wait until next year!

Golf Tournament: This year’s golf tournament was held at Pine Knot Golf Course in Dorchester. The golf tournament is always a great event for members to socialize and have a great time. Our sponsors were very generous in donating a lot of prizes and money to help fund our community projects. We look forward to seeing everyone next year.

Overall the 2013 season has been a great year for the London Chapter. We have stepped up our involvement in the community by being a major partner in the Veterans Memorial Parkway project, which will create a long-lasting impact on the City of London. Our goal has been to promote the Green for Life movement wherever we can and to promote all of our professional members. A special thanks to all of our members on a great 2013 season.

Respectfully submitted, Jarrett Woodard President 2013

Ottawa

President: Ed Hansen Past President: Chris Burns CLT Treasurer: Sundaura Alford CLD Provincial Board Representative: Bruce Morton CLP, CIT Directors: Sarah Johnston, Patricia Stanish CLD, Kelly Mulrooney-Coté, Chris Urquhart CLP, Jim Curran, Mike Fulcher, Mark Mallette Once again the Ottawa Chapter closed this past season having achieved many new and ongoing endeavors.

Hard work by the committee in charge of organizing chapter meetings paid off with an increased turnout at our gatherings over the last two years to an average of 50 attendees. This was done by filling the meetings with professional development and peer-to-peer networking. This combination of activities created a positive experience for all attendees.

The past year saw chapter members continue to give their time towards the community. Some of the events include the Ottawa Cancer Survivors’ Park, The Annual Day of Tribute at the National Military Cemetery at Beechwood to honour the memory and actions of Canadian veterans and their families, the Annual Ottawa Chapter Golf Tournament for the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Foundation, the

Tailgate Party at the 20th annual GreenTrade Expo in support of the Ottawa Food Bank, and the Dream Garden at the Ottawa Home and Garden Show.

This year at the Cancer Survivors’ Park, students from the horticulture program at Algonquin College participated in the maintenance of the park, with guidance from our LO companies mentoring them onsite.

GreenTrade Expo celebrated its 20th year on Feb. 13, with a record number of exhibitors and attendees. The event also included a charity tailgate party, which raised $2,000 for the Ottawa Food Bank.

Committee chair Bruce Morton, who has spearheaded GreenTrade from the beginning, was presented with a distinguished member award for his continued efforts in championing the Ottawa Chapter.

Tailgate even included a guitar performance by executive director Tony DiGiovanni.

Chapter membership increased significantly in 2012 and 2013, with 46 new members added to the Chapter over that time. New members were recognized and introduced at the October 2013 Chapter meeting.

We look forward to many positive things in 2014.

Respectfully submitted, Ed Hansen President 2013

Toronto

President: Arvils Lukss First vice president: Allan Kling CLP Second vice president: Jonas Spring Past president: Lindsay Drake Nightingale Treasurer: Sabrina Goettler CLP Secretary: Janet Mott CLP Provincial Board representative: Ryan Heath CLP, CLT Directors: Paulo Domingues CIT, Janet Ennamorato, Shawn Foley CIT In 2013, The Toronto Chapter experienced great turnouts and enthusiasm at meetings and events with a mix of new faces and familiar ones, as well. Our goal in the past few years has been to increase attendance by trying to provide our members with an interactive learning and networking experience, through our lecture series and educational events.

To help facilitate a welcoming environment, our events were held at the Latvian Cultural Centre, with lots of free parking, a hot meal, and a free drink ticket. It’s been great to see the camaraderie amongst attendees, sharing ideas and learning from each other.

We started our year in October, 2012, with a double bill that featured Beth Edney CLD, representing the design side and Mark Hartley featuring a compilation of inspiring landscape installations. Beth focused on the newer trends in container/planter opportunities, with a great slide show that showcased the high-end demographic with limited time and ample budgets. Mark took us through a journey of learning as you go, always keeping the end goal of client satisfaction in mind, no matter how creative we’d like our clients to be.

Our next event in November focused on design-build construction.

Presented by George Coito from Coivic Contracting in Hoirnby, it was another fascinating trip through history, as George’s father started the business, managing the early growth years, through family transition until the present. We had great attendance with lots of great questions and animated discussions following the meeting. As people gather and mingle after the meeting, we know we’ve achieved one of our goals of learning from each other.

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 25

Next up was our Christmas social held in the large ballroom at the Latvian Centre. A great meal and two comedians on the stage combined for a great evening. Delicious food, drink and good company really set the stage for a festive mood.

In February, we held our annual business tune-up event at Sheridan Nurseries in Unionville, sponsored by Envirobond. We invited Mike Winegardener from MTO to brief us on the latest ministry rules and regulations. As this was a full day seminar, Sheridan graciously allocated space for our speakers, with a room for lunch. It made the day easy to organize. A rep from WSPS attended the meeting, stressing the importance of health and safety compliance at every level in our businesses.

Our keynote speaker was Justin Nadeau from Foodshare. His presentation tied together efforts being made by local municipalities and neighourhood communities regarding sustainable city gardens, rainwater harvesting and communal gardening. The group’s latest project focuses on inner-city school rooftop gardening. Our Chapter hopes to participate in one of Foodshare’s ventures in 2014. It’s a great initiative for the City of Toronto.

March welcomed Canada Blooms, with a great turnout of garden builders at the Direct Energy Centre. As usual, everyone pulled together to create a unique experience for the public, resulting in a positive experience for those who attended. A thank you must be said to all of our volunteers who donated their time to create an amazing garden festival and helped to elevate our industry even higher.

In April, after our Annual General Meeting, we welcomed back Stuart Knight by popular demand. His candid approach to life’s obstacles, and methods of coping, overcoming and communicating, left a great impression on all of us. His topic took us in a different direction, specifically outlining the importance of managing oneself first. By working in a proper mindset of confidence, we can all become better listeners and effective leaders.

July heralded the return of our golf tournament at Nobleton Lakes Golf Club. Sponsors included Beaver Valley Stone, Draglam Salt and Earthco Soils, New Roads Leasing, Landsource Organix, HortProtect, Oaks Concrete Products, Gro-Bark, Envirobond, Permacon, Best Way Stone, BOT Aggregate, Unilock and Waterboys Contracting. It was a great sunny day with lots of networking, great raffle prizes, lunch and dinner combined for a successful event. Thanks go to our organizing committee for a job well done.

August rounded out our calendar with the annual baseball tournament at Richmond Green in Richmond Hill. We have to thank our sponsors for the generous support again this year. Congratulations to the winning team of Arbordale/Moonstruck. Second place went to Sheridan Nurseries. Congratulations to all teams in attendance.

Finally, a note of gratitude to our dedicated board members, who work diligently behind the scenes, planning and organizing events for our members. Without committed board members volunteering their time, none of this would be possible. Thank you as well to our many sponsors, vendors, suppliers, and especially Landscape Ontario staff helping us along every step of the way. Most importantly, thanks must be given to our Toronto Chapter members who have supported our efforts, in terms of attendance and enthusiasm. Thanks for a great year, and continue learning.

Respectfully submitted, Arvils Lukss President 2013

26 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

Upper Canada

President: Neil Bouma Vice president: Andre Ypma Past president/ Provincial Board representative: Terry Childs Secretary: Sian Pritchard Treasurer: Judy deBoer-Bell Directors: Ken Dehaan, David Gunn, Pamela McCormick CLP, Jason Partridge In September of 2012, the Upper Canada Chapter enjoyed a presentation by Bryan Emerson, a certified business coach, on Seven Qualities of Effective Leadership.

In October, Paul Morris from Acorus Restoration Native Plant Nursery in Walsingham provided members with a very informative presentation on habitat restoration.

Chuck Chambers from Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute spoke to Chapter members in November on the issues facing the sector.

The meeting was also the Chapter’s Christmas social, Rock and Bowl.

In January, we had a successful round-table discussion on Best Practices and Lessons Learned. It resulted in some lively debate and an educational experience for some members.

A few members competed vigorously in the second annual Upper Canada squash tournament held in February. Our thanks to Dan Clost CHT for handling this event for us. Also in February, representatives from local Conservation Authorities met with us to discuss planning and working around watersheds.

March was election month and the annual MTO meeting.

In July, the Upper Canada Golf Tournament was held at the Loyalist Golf Club. Paul Doornbos CLT, CLP and Steven Pool deserve our heartfelt thanks for all the work they put into running this annual event.

Many of our members pulled together to complete a CAA elementary school greening project in August. Thank you Terry Childs for the design work and for organizing the project.

I thank all the 2012-2013 board members and committee members.

Respectfully submitted, Neil Bouma President 2013

Waterloo

President: Randy Adams Past president: Robert Tester Vice president: Richard Burch CIT, CLP, CLT Provincial Board representative: David Wright CLP Treasurer: Helmut Zgraja Secretary: Jeff Thompson Directors: Cor Bultena, Jason Dietrich Waterloo Chapter had a very successful year, hosting seven Chapter meetings with an average attendance of 50 plus, and a number of successful projects and events over the past year.

Throughout the year, we hold many social activities for members and events in which we continue to give back to the community. Our annual events for members include a baseball tournament and our Fall Freeze-up dance. Again, both these events were well attended.

The annual baseball tournament and family picnic day took place in August this year. We had a booth at the Kitchener-Waterloo Home and Garden Show, where we gave away 2500 seedlings. The Fall Freezeup Dance in November was attended by 140 members and guests.

The golf tournament in July raised over $10,000 for charities and

2013 ANNUAL REPORT

Waterloo Chapter took care of greening another school this year, when Elmira District High School was chosen as the winner.

the scholarship foundation.

The Waterloo Chapter also completed the annual School Greening Project. This year it was at the Elmira District High School. The school greening project has become a major event, with schools competing for the chance to receive a makeover. We hosted a competition among the schools within the Chapter. The students have the opportunity to convince us what their school needs in a makeover.

We look forward to the upcoming LO season and hope to grow on the success of the past year. Thanks to all of our great members who, time and time again, step up to take part in our many social activities and volunteer to help in our many great community events. It’s great to be a member in the Waterloo Chapter.

Respectfully submitted, Randy Adams President 2013

Windsor

President: Nino Papa Past President: Mark Williams Vice President/Treasurer/Provincial Board Representative: Don Tellier CLT Secretary: Jay Rivait Directors: Dan Garlatti, Chris Power, Karl Klinck, Mike Connell, liason for St. Clair College Jay Terryberry The 2012/2013 fiscal year was an interesting and eventful one for the Windsor Chapter. Under the guidance of outgoing president Nino Papa, the Chapter continued with the various industry and social events that our members have supported over the years. Unfortunately, Nino had to step down just prior to the end of his two-year term.

At the time he was doing a commendable job in guiding the Windsor Chapter Board.

Our fall meeting season started off with our annual Windsor Chapter Awards of Distinction program that recognizes excellence in the construction and maintenance of residential, commercial and industrial sites. Many thanks to Bellaire Landscape for hosting this year’s event that brought out over 60 members/employees to enjoy the festivities. This annual event has traditionally been one of our more popular events with the staff from St. Clair College Horticulture program once

again judging the work submitted. Many thanks to the staff.

The November, January and February general meetings brought out good crowds to learn more information on balanced mixed portfolio for snow, landscape photography and using technology to increase profits. All sessions were informative and well received by our general membership.

The March meeting allowed members to learn the lessons of the road from two MTO officers. The two officers provided an audiovisual presentation relating to vehicle safety, load restrictions and load security. Garlatti Landscaping was kind enough to bring out two truck and trailer combinations that allowed the indoor lesson to move outdoors for an up-close demonstration on vehicle/trailer safety. Once again, this proved a popular event with over 50 members attending the informative session.

Windsor Chapter was well represented at this year’s Windsor Home Builders’ home show. A small, but effective, booth was staffed by local members, who helped spread the word about our local membership, as well as promoted Green for Life brand. Special thanks to Chris Power and Karl Klinck for overseeing the construction and dismantling of the Windsor Chapter booth.

With the sudden passing of Perry Molema in December of 2012, the Windsor Chapter began exploring the possibilities of constructing a garden in Perry’s memory. After several meetings, numerous contributions from the Windsor and provincial board, as well as several member firms, a construction date of November 2013 was set.

Aside from the informative general meetings, Windsor Chapter members partook in several social events this year. Another fall golf tournament was once again a success, allowing us to raise additional monies for future projects. A night of bowling was enjoyed by several member companies with some 10-pin action and door prizes for the lucky participants. A new event in August was also in the cards. Detroit Tigers day saw 40 individuals from member companies enjoy a thrilling come-from-behind win by our local professional baseball team, the Detroit Tigers. Many thanks to Dan Garlatti and Jay Rivait, along with their social committee, for organizing these well-attended events.

It has been a pleasure serving on the board in the past, and look forward to a good program and social calendar for the 2013/2014 year.

Respectfully submitted, Donald Tellier President 2014 2013 ANNUAL REPORT 27

2013 Sector reports The scope and mandate — and therefore the needs — of the various industry sectors served by Landscape Ontario are distinctly different.

The specific requirements of each of these groups are facilitated by the association’s sector group structure. The objective of each sector group is to respond to current concerns resulting from marketplace pressures and government legislation.

Garden Centre

Chair: Michael Van Dongen CHT Provincial Board representative: Bob McCannell Members: Barry Benjamin; Kevin Falls; Perry Grobe; Alice Klamer; Robert Kuepfer; Chas. Lawton CHT, CIT; Shannon Lindensmith; Susan Richards; Art Vanden Eden CHT

We expanded our symposium at Garden Expo as a lunch program featuring Jim Hole, who is a garden centre owner, and who provided a firsthand account of his experiences from his Enjoy Centre in Alberta.

He discussed Building the Future: They Don’t Make Gardeners Like They used To, where the whole group conversed about the future of the garden centre industry, and the customers of tomorrow.

We will also explore the concept of a garden centre tour program, which is just in the early stages of development.

The group looks forward to maintaining our track record of hosting excellent educational events and creating new products and services for our members each year. We greatly appreciate input from anyone, and welcome the participation of members in our committee meetings.

Respectfully submitted, Michael Van Dongen Chair 2012-2013

When looking back on the 2012/2013 year for the Garden Centre Sector Group, one must reflect on the power of collaboration.

The 2012 year started with the Garden Centre Group bringing David Domoney, a U.K. television personality and garden centre ambassador, to speak at our Symposium breakfast event at Expo. He Chair: John Hewson CLP brought the audience a tremendous wealth of both garden centre and Provincial Board Representative: Brian Marsh other retail examples from his international experiences by demonMembers: Carmine Filice CLP, Mike DeBoer CLT, Anthony Kampen, strating the unique and distinguishing details within the retail Industry.

Jeff McMann CLT, Dean Schofield, Rodger Tschanz, Jay VanGelder Expo continued with Landscape Ontario’s Garden Centre Awards of Excellence, and a trade show that also showed retail’s finest vendors, This is the seventh year for the trial gardens at the Landscape Ontario and allowed the members to continue to network. site, under the supervision of Rodger Tschanz of the University of The group was also able to collaborate with Landscape Safety.

Guelph. The goal of the trials is to highlight new and underutilized plant com this year and created a Garden Centre Online Training System. varieties to the Ontario landscaping industry. The beds contain over With the hard work of our committee members, the framework from 300 annuals and perennials and the rose bed with over 800 roses. the Retail Horticulturalist Certification Program and CNLA, the sysA two-day open house was held on Aug. 16 and 17, with industem was launched in the spring of 2013. The system was intended try members attending on the Friday. Over 100 attendees observed to be an introduction for new staff, where they can watch a series of videos on customer service, product knowledge, personal safety and WHMIS, and then complete a quiz to demonstrate understanding of what was presented on the video. The response was very positive from garden centre operators and mangers because it allowed them to become compliant, and also gave new staff a comprehensive understanding of our industry. This resulted in more productive employees in those early May days, and staff members who were really excited by all the aspects of the garden centre industry.

CNLA and Garden Centres Canada, under the continued leadership of chair Anthony O’Neill, with the support of Landscape Ontario and the Garden Centre Sector Group, have also demonstrated continual development. In the past year the inspection program, Retail Horticultural Certification, and the recycling program have all in one way or another been reviewed and enhanced.

This year we hope to improve many of the programs, including the online training system and the employee manual to reflect changes that are constantly occurring in the Each year the trial gardens open house provides industry members the opportunity to see industry.

Grounds Management

how new plant introductions perform under realistic conditions.

28 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

2013 ANNUAL REPORT guest speaker Paul Zammit use new plant material in container designs.

The public open house on Aug. 17 attracted over 150 members of the public. Featured during the day was “Ask the Expert” booth with representatives from Ontario Master Gardeners. The new varieties were also on display at Expo and will be at Congress in the New Product Showcase.

The vision of the Grounds Management Sector Group is to be, “A prosperous, professional, ethical, recognized and trusted Grounds Management sector.”

Over the past year, the group worked on and discussed the following issues: • The Specification/Guideline project (Grounds Management Rating System) has been developed. The draft document was reviewed by group and will be finalized by December, 2013.

• The Group would like to host a Landscape Management Software Symposium. The goal is to host this at Congress 2015.

• Plans call for a Water Audit Process to develop a partnership with regional water purveyors in order to certify contractors for water audit.

• The Group plans to develop and host an event about developing a communication plan to property managers.

• A special project to energize the sector will be to develop a set of low impact guidelines for the property management industry (Green Guidelines). The guidelines would act as a pre-qualification device. Jeff McMann is spearheading this project with input from the rest of the group.

Respectfully submitted, John Hewson Chair 2013

Growers

Chair/Provincial Representative: Gerwin Bouman Members: Jamie Aalbers, Rob Albrecht, Dave Braun, Harry DeVries, Jeff Gregg, Jennifer Llewellyn, Glen Lumis, John Mantel, Darby McGarth, John Moons, Rob Naraj CHT, Mark Ostrowski, Bill Putzer, Joel Schraven, Fred Somerville, Donna Speranzini, Christine Stein, Dave Tillaart, Jeanine West, Rita Weerdenburg, Henry Westerhof, Youbin Zheng The Nursery Growers Sector Group continues to work on the strategic priorities throughout the year.

Events

The growers’ bus tour went west this year and visited Fox Hollow Farms, St. Williams Nursery and Ecology Centre, Moore’s Water Garden and Canadale Nurseries on Sept. 11. A total of 45 participants enjoyed great networking and weather.

The annual Fall Dinner meeting was held on Nov. 22 at the Grand Chalet in Milton. Guest speakers were Jacki Hart CLP on Prosperity Partners Five Pillars to Success, Rick Friesen on Benchmarking and Jeanine West on Biosecurity, Are you prepared? Also introduced was the new IPM Manual.

The Growers Short Course attracted over 235 participants on Feb. 6, at the Legion in Guelph. This was a full-day event with numerous speakers on subjects such as Warfare in the Trees, Alternative Strategies for IPM, Frost Protection and Water Management for Growers, plus updates on research projects. Special thank you for the event sponsor Agrium Advanced Technologies (Direct Solutions).

The Annual Growers Auction in August was hosted by Sheridan Nurseries in celebration of its 100th anniversary. Over 150 attended the event and approximately $25,000 was raised for scholarships and horticultural research.

On Aug. 15, the growers co-hosted an Intelligent Sprayer Demo Day for Nursery Crops at J. C. Bakker and Sons in St. Catharines.

Dr. Heping Zhu (USDA Application Technology Research Unit) and Dr. Randy Zondag (Ohio State University Extension) came to demonstrate the new sprayer.

The Growers Research Sub-committee continues to successfully identify important projects that align with our key research and industry development priorities.

The Plant Health Action Sub-committee oversees and advises on major health issues affecting nursery operations.

The Safety Sub-committee, in conjunction with Workplace Safety and Prevention Services, launched a nursery-specific safety training program.

The Growers Sector Group members continue to receive updates from CNLA, OMAF, and the Plant Health Committee that pertain to nursery issues.

I would like to thank all the directors, volunteers, sponsors and staff who support this group throughout the year.

Respectfully submitted, Gerwin Bouwin Chair 2012-2013

Interior Plantscapes

Chair/Provincial Board Representative: Stephen Schell CHT Members: Hella Keppo CHT, Fred Prescod CHT, Phil Van Alstyne CHT, Nanthankumar Paramanathan, Jill Jensen, Sue Blaney In October 2012 at Garden Expo, the group hosted a breakfast. The theme was Planning for Profit. Guest speakers were Jill Jensen and Sue Blaney. She told those present that containers and plant materials can help maximize your profit. Understand how to utilize them to generate sales. The event was a great success with over 45 in attendance. The event was sponsored by Jill Jensen, Lechuza and Ambius.

At this year’s Garden Expo, the group hosted a luncheon under the topic Living Walls and Green Roofs — Green Plants for Green Buildings. Guest speaker was Chris Raimondi CLP, Raimondi Horticultural Group. There were 40 participants who learned about living wall systems appropriate for specific needs, as well as how biophilic design factors profoundly affect the well-being and profitability of the modern built environment.

During the year, the group discussed: • Working with PLANET to finalize the Certification Manual. It was completed and available by September of 2012 for distribution.

• Promotion of the interior plantscape sector to other industry sectors and consumers about the value of having plants in office space, malls, etc.

• Working with Green Plants for Green Buildings organization, re: The new train-the-trainer program.

Respectfully submitted, Stephen Schell Chair 2012- 2013

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 29

Irrigation

Chair: Steve Macartney CIT Members: Louise Cottreau, Chris Davies, Kara Gibbons, John Lamberink CIT CIC, Chris LeConte CIC, CLIA, Roy Neves CLIA, CID, CIC, Paul Proulx, Jamie Riddell, Mike Ross CIC, CLIA, Scott Sim CIT Thank you to the members of the Irrigation Sector Group for their hard work and dedication.

In January, 2013, we held the annual irrigation conference at Congress. It was a half-day in length and was well received by the industry. Guest speaker was Phil Harwood of Pro-Motion Consulting, who spoke on “How to attract, retain and motivate the right people.” The Water Conservation Award of Excellence was also presented.

The sector group is working on numerous issues that affect irrigation. One area is the promotion of the education aspect of the certification program (CLIA, CIC and CID).

The Irrigation Association has just announced a new Certified Technician Course, which the LO sector group will look into adopting.

The group also partnered with Halton Region to present a seminar on water conservation. Approximately 35 attended this information session.

This year the group is partnering with Peel and York Regions for a new program on WSIP (Water Smart Irrigation Professional) training and certification. It is presently in the development stage, but watch for exciting opportunities in 2014.

We continue to work with numerous municipalities so that they understand the irrigation industry and our challenges. By providing efficient systems, well trained staff and continued co-operation with municipalities, the future for the irrigation sector looks positive.

Respectfully submitted, Steve Macartney Chair – 2013

Landscape Contractors

Chair/Provincial Board Representative: Peter Guinane Members: Thomas Blatter CLP; Brian Clegg; Charlie Dobbin; Janet Ennamorato; Jason Gaw; Harry Gelderman CLT; Ryan Heath CLT,CLP; Barry Hordyk; Arvils Lukss; Julien Marit; Brian Marsh; Arthur Skolnik; Rich Thiebaud; Mike Travis I would like to thank all of the members of our committee for contributing their time. A special thank you goes to Brian Clegg for his contribution as treasurer and advisor. Brian has stepped down from the group.

For the Lecture Series 2013, the group decided to change venue and date in order to revitalize the event. It was held on Feb. 27 at the Latvian Centre. It was decided to charge for the event, as a buffet dinner was provided. Guest speakers were Scott Wentworth (contractor) and Daria Nardone (landscape architect).

The Landscape Contractors Sector Group assisted with building the feature gardens at Canada Blooms 2013, reviewing all entries to ensure they meet industry standards and quality. The builders stepped up to the plate and ensured there was a wow factor in each garden, along with lots of colour.

The Sector Group continued with the benchmarking project, with support from LO members for the database, which ensures a more accurate result on productivity statistics.

The Landscape Contractors Group continued to evaluate and

30 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

review the accredited membership concept.

Articles pertaining to the contractors’ sector appear throughout the year in Landscape Ontario magazine.

Respectfully submitted, Peter Guinane 2013

Landscape Designers

Chair/Provincial Board Representative: Chris Mace Treasurer: John Allison CLT, CLP, CLD Members: Paul Brydges OALA, Don Chase CLD, Beth Edney CLD, Tony Lombardi CLP, CLD, Ron Koudys OALA, CLD, Haig Seferian OALA, CLD, Ron Swentiski CLD, Mark Kimmerly, Jennifer Hayman, Jen Cuddie, Kelly Keates, Ryan Heath CLT, CLP, Carolyne Planck, Brandon Gelderman I would like to thank the seasoned and new members of our committee for all of their time and effort that they contribute to the Landscape Designers Sector Group.

The group hosted the annual Landscape Designer Conference at Congress on January 7, 2013. The full-day event featured guest speakers Dave Maciulis, Carl Hastings, Caroline De Vries, Rob Vogel, Daniel Tal, Jean-Marc Daigle and Paul Zammit. All were very well received by 150 people in attendance. Harry Gelderman was the recipient of the annual Outstanding Service Award presented at the conference.

We would like to thank our sponsors for the continued support: Platinum — Blue Sky Nursery, Gold — Unilock, Silver — Dynascape and Moonstruck. There was a networking reception after the conference, where sponsors of the event had table-top displays and were able to connect with participants.

The conference committee members are Chris Mace, Tony Lombardi, Beth Edney and Kristen McIntyre.

The Certified Landscape Designer (CLD) manual was launched at the conference. To date 230 copies of the manual have been sold. The sub-committee members who worked tirelessly on the manual include Ron Koudys, Don Chase, Haig Seferian, Harry Gelderman and Sally Harvey from Landscape Ontario.

In conjunction with the new CLD manual, a subcommittee of volunteers gathered at Landscape Ontario home office to review the current CLD exam and develop a new group of questions to ensure it was connected to the occupational standard in the new manual. The new exam will be launched at the beginning of 2014.

The group is continuing to work on the following projects and events: • CLD manual, exam and portfolio review process, including development of a new national list of 400 plants to be included in the plant identification section of the exam.

• Developing a memorandum of understanding between CNLA and the Landscape Designers Sector Group for the administration of the CLD designation.

• Developing plans to increase the number of designers with the CLD designation. This will include redeveloping the landscape designers’ website page to explain and define the CLD process and benefits, and to ensure consistent branding on screen at the designers’ conference.

• Plan for the next Landscape Designers Conference.

Respectfully submitted, Chris Mace Chair 2012-2013

2013 ANNUAL REPORT Lawn Care

Chair: Steve Tschanz Provincial Board Representative: Alan White Vice Chair: Kyle Tobin Members: Gavin Dawson, Paul Gaspar, Paul Grotier, Rohan Harrison, Martin Horsman, Doug Hubble, Don McQueen CIT, Mike Miltenburg, Ken Pavely CLT, Lee Radcliffe, Richard Reed, Tom Somerville, Tim Tripp, Louis Van Haastrecht, Bill Van Ryan Jr., Don Voorhees, Kerry Whale, John Wright Over the last 12 months, the lawn care sector has had a very difficult time on the business side. We went into the 2013 season recovering from one of the worst droughts measured since records have been kept. With the extremely thin lawns, weed emergence was continuous, due to the wet spring. With the continual battle on the lawn, the sector group focused on improving conditions for members.

At Canada Blooms, we accented the landscapes in different areas of the show with sod mounds of various shapes and sizes. These mounds were sprinkled throughout the show and the purpose was to raise the awareness of the benefits of turf. Thanks to the sod growers for the sod donation and to two suppliers, Quality Seed and Lawn Life.

St. James Park was also aerated, over-seeded and fertilized in the spring by members of the sector group. It seems the city is looking forward to the free labour each year.

During the year, we supported research on the effects of fertilizing turf on groundwater runoff. Although our industry has for the most part removed phosphorous from our fertility programs for several years now, there is the potential that we will be labeled as a polluter. The evidence that a healthy, maintained, fertilized sward of grass is a benefit to the environment may be ignored.

The sector group continues to communicate with the provincial government in hopes that the province will add some products to our toolbox. Although the evidence that homeowners are cheating the system continues to grow, it is being ignored by the Ministry of Environment.

Respectfully submitted, Steve Tschanz Chair 2012 -2013

Lighting

Chair/ Provincial Board Representative: John Higo/James Solecki Members: Carl Hastings, Leon Hordyk, Cory MacCallum CIT, Ken Martin, Jamie Riddell, Joe Willemse, Corey Yourkin CIT The Lighting Sector Group continues to work with the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) and all regulations.

The sector group hosted its annual Lighting Conference on Feb. 16, 2013 at the Pipers Health Golf Club, Milton. There were 110 attendees and 10 exhibiting companies. Keynote speaker was Doug Alderman, whose subject was Better Illumination for Outdoor Living.

The group also participated in the judging of the Landscape Ontario Awards of Excellence in the lighting category.

Priorities for the coming year include, review and revise the website information and promote the sector through a newsletter.

As well, the lighting design and installation training manual and program is expected to be ready for distribution by the spring of 2014.

Respectfully submitted, James Solecki Chair 2013

Snowposium 2013 offered a huge amount of information to attendees. One of the most popular events was the MTO presentation.

Snow and Ice Management Chair: William Jordan Vice Chair: Mike McGrath CLT Provincial Board Representative: Mark Humphries Treasurer: Robert Roszell Committee: Vince Arone, Michael Boffo, Robert Boffo, Gerald Boot CLP, John Buikema, Trish Gallagher, Steve Hary, Edward Hewis, Nichole Ashton Jordan, Leanne Lobe, Jim Melo, Brian Mettel, Jim Monk, John O’Leary CLT, Fred Persia, Darren Rodrigues, Rob Tester, Martin Tirado SIMA, Dan Winstanley

First off, I would like to thank everyone on the Snow and Ice Management Sector Group for all their time and effort they put into it.

The Snow and Ice Control for Parking Lots and Sidewalks Study is moving along very well. The study includes members participating from the Barrie area through to the GTA and into Kitchener/Waterloo.

The study will examine liquid alternatives this winter, as per the contract with LO. A number of LO members made the journey to Minneapolis, Minn., for the SIMA Snow and Ice Symposium this year.

Our snow and ice symposium, now called Snowposium, was a success in September, 2013. The show was sold out and everyone found all the information from the presenters very informative. This year we had a number of speakers and live demos, which included Solving the Snow and Ice Pricing Problem by Phil Harwood, Managing Your Risk from Marsh Canada’s Luke Pallister, Managing Your Risk from McLauchlin & Associates’ Robert Kennaley, a presentation by Leanne Lobe of Smart About Salt, the theory behind calibration presented by Raqib Omer and a live calibration demonstration by Raqib Omer and William Jordan.

The sector group is currently examining a different format for next year’s Snowposium.

Respectfully submitted, William Jordan Chair 2013

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 31

2013 Committee reports All of Landscape Ontario’s affairs are governed by its members.

Regional needs are met at the chapter level, while industry-specific issues are dealt with at the sector group level. All other affairs are conducted at the committee level. Some, such as Congress, Communications or Finance, are long-standing committees that oversee the association’s very important, revenue-generating activities. Often, committees are formed on an as-need basis to deal with specific matters. Once a committee has successfully completed its mandate, the committee is discontinued.

Building

Chair: Karl Stensson Directors: Hank Gelderman CLT, Tom Intven, Paul Olsen, John Putzer, Haig Seferian CLD, Marc Thiebaud, Rene Thiebaud CLP, Bob Tubby CLP, Monica van Maris, Neil Vanderkruk In March of this year, we received an offer to purchase 23 of the 48 acres at our home office site in Milton. This acreage is located to the west of our current building. We negotiated the sale at $380,000 an acre for a total of $8,740,000. The closing date was to be in August, however, the deal was delayed for two main issues. The severance process has taken much longer than expected, however, we have been told the registration is to be complete by the end of November. In addition, there were a few issues around the size and location of the stormwater pond. Both of these issues are easy to resolve. If all goes well, the deal will close early in 2014.

Landscape Ontario is in a very fortunate position, because we have no mortgage. The Building Committee has engaged a planner and architect to develop a number of concepts for the renovation or replacement of the building. Our goal is to develop the home office property in a way that reflects the best the industry and members have to offer the public, while at the same time remembering that we need to remain financially strong and also have a nest egg for important issues or downturns in the industry.

Improvements will be made in the training and classroom space, as well as the landscape and overall infrastructure. The committee is focused on maximizing the value of the property for the members.

When the planning work is completed, we will present options and recommendations to the Board of Directors for discussion and approval.

Respectfully submitted, Karl Stensson Chair 2012 - 2013

CNLA

LO representative: Alan White This is my first year as representative on the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) board. There is a lot of great work going on across the country.

As a member of Landscape Ontario, you are automatically a mem-

In coming years, members can look forward to improved functionality and image from the LO home office.

32 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

2013 ANNUAL REPORT ber of the CNLA. The purpose of CNLA is to align and prioritize the agendas of the provinces so that we truly work as a team. The vision of both associations is identical. We exist to grow a prosperous, professional, ethical, valued and recognized industry. CNLA meets twice a year. This year the meetings were held in Niagara Falls and Montreal.

Here is a brief summary of issues and achievements.

Seasonality and EI

One of the main challenges of our industry is seasonality. It is the main reason we have such a difficult time attracting employees who view the job as a career. A typical employee works 2,000 hours (full-time equivalent), however, the fact that many of us lay off people presents a huge retention problem.

New Employment Insurance rules are not helping. CNLA and the provinces have developed a number of strategies and programs, however, much more can be done especially in the government relations realm. The fact is that seasonal employees contribute huge economic benefits for Canada’s economy. This needs to be recognized.

Stimulating demand

CNLA has been working on a number of projects aimed at raising awareness for the benefits of green space, landscapes and gardens.

A new Plants Love You campaign has been piloted by our Quebec counterpart. It is a generic promotion campaign that can be accessed by all.

Insurance

Marsh Canada has continually enhanced the insurance offerings to the industry. The program is performing well because the members are more focused on risk management. If you have not received a quote, please do. The program is developed for members by members. In addition, there is a small administrative fee that supports CNLA activities. Marsh has identified that vehicle accidents account for huge losses in our industry. To counteract this, they have developed an online driver training program.

Red Seal apprenticeship

Red Seal apprenticeship has been a breakthrough accomplishment for CNLA. We are now among the major Red Seal occupations in Canada. Red Seal means that the education content and processes are similar across all provincial programs, leading to federal recognition. Red Seal status also goes a long way in improving the image of our industry as a career choice.

On-the-Job Training Program (OJT)

This is another breakthrough accomplishment of CNLA. The On-theJob Training (OJT) program is hugely important. Even those with degrees and diplomas learn most of their craft in real life (on-the-job) from the owners, supervisors, foremen/women and fellow employees.

The OJT program fits the training profile of the industry. It gives companies valuable tools to help make traditional training methods much better. It focuses on the processes of training, and not the content. If you marry content training with OJT principles, we will have an acceleration of trained employees and an advancement of professional standards.

Certification

CNLA administers most of the Certification programs. The focus of the last few years has been to promote certification to the industry. In the next few years, CNLA will promote it as pre-qualification criteria to purchasers and the public.

Research cluster funding

CNLA has been successful at advocating significant research dollars allocated to horticultural research at Vineland. A total of 21 projects have received approval.

Membership Services

CNLA administers most of the cost saving affinity programs used by the members. Many of these programs will save you significant money and will more than pay for your dues. Go to this link for a list of programs, http://bit.ly/XducEv.

Landscape Canada priorities

Landscape Canada is a sector group of the CNLA. The group is working on the following national priorities: public awareness, labour, partnership development, membership and standards and environment.

Public relations

There are a number of public relations activities that performed by CNLA. It is now using Green for Life (developed by Landscape Ontario) as the national public brand. This unifies our message across Canada. CNLA is also involved in National Tree Day, Green Infrastructure and Canada Blooms promotion. The public relations message will focus on health and healthy living.

These are some brief highlights of CNLA activities. Please see canadanursery.com for more information, and a full account of all the association’s work.

Respectfully submitted, Alan White CNLA representative

Communications

Chair: Hank Gelderman CHT Members: Gerald Boot CLP, Laura Catalano, Marty Lamers, Jan Laurin, Warren Patterson, Gregg Salivan, Bob Tubby CLP Industry service continues to be the top mission for LO’s communications team. Members enjoy a range of professional services from this team, both print and electronic: trade and sector promotions, trade show support, promotions to drive consumer demand, Landscape Trades magazine, LO This Week e-news, Landscape Ontario magazine, safety and education initiatives, Canada Blooms support and more. In addition to the magazines and electronic media, your team generates promotion projects each year that fill a binder over four inches thick!

Feedback indicates our communication efforts work: • Members report getting new business from the Find-a-member interface at our consumer website, landscapeontario.com • Readers of Landscape Trades expressed strong appreciation in the magazine’s reader survey; they say it definitely helps them succeed in business • Communications support to the trade shows is an important element in the shows’ continued success • Leading advertisers consistently book multiple-insertion programs, because ads in your magazines consistently work Landscape Trades has earned its reputation as the most respected and authoritative trade magazine for Canada’s horticulture industry. The Landscape Trades Source Book, now in its 24th year, and remains the only product directory for Canada’s green industry.

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 33

As the community that brings members together, Landscape Ontario magazine continues to shine. Its weekly supplement, the LO This Week e-broadcast, highlights events and timely news, in an easy-to-read format. If you are not on the distribution list, simply drop a request to alindsay@landscapeontario.com. Anyone, including your employees, may subscribe for free.

The Communications Department continues to work closely with the trade shows, in everything from developing visual identities and marketing themes to basic print production. We also publish the advertising-supported show guides, and manage the shows’ extensive electronic communications.

The communications team also works closely with your Membership Department on LO’s Green for Life promotional initiative. The original marketing plan, devised in 2008, has paid back dividends many times over. In addition to hard referrals, the program stimulates demand for green products in general; over 50,000 people visited the Green for Life website in May alone.

Thanks to our communications staff for turning out products that truly reflect LO’s stature and leadership: Kim Burton, Allan Dennis, Robert Ellidge, Lee Ann Knudsen, Angela Lindsay, Steve Moyer, Greg Sumsion, Mike Wasilewski and Sarah Willis. And thanks to our committee members for their generous contributions and guidance — these member volunteers really care about your association’s communications profile.

Respectfully submitted, Hank Gelderman CHT Chair 2012-2013

Congress and Expo

Chair: Beth Edney CLD Vice-chair, Congress: Brian Cocks CHT Vice-chair, Garden & Floral Expo: Terry Childs Past chair: Brian Lofgren Members: Scott Beaudoin, Terry Childs, Doug Coote, Paul DeGroot, Barry Dickson, Nathan Helder, Michael Laporte CHT, Bob McCannell, Klaas Sikkema, Nick Solty, Jack VandeRee CHT, Monica van Maris and David Braun, as the LO Board liaison

Congress is ready to mark its 41st year.

34 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

Two major trade shows are hosted by Landscape Ontario’s Show Committee. The events serve a dual purpose of meeting members’ needs for product sourcing and professional development. The events include exhibits, education seminars and peer networking, as well as special features, such as the New Product Showcase, floral displays and/or gardens.

Landscape Ontario’s Garden and Floral Expo 2012

Landscape Ontario’s Garden and Floral Expo, Canada’s fall show for the garden and floral industries, was held Oct. 17-18, 2012, at the Toronto Congress Centre.

Exhibit space revenue was down 14.27 per cent from 2011, and sponsorship sales fell, as well. While attendance was slightly lower, Expo attracted a good quality audience. Despite the declines, net proceeds from the show were still favourable at $148,031.

Expo 2012’s educational programming was formatted to give attendees a great experience. Destination Inspiration Theatre, conveniently located on the show floor, coupled with a re-formatted program, enhanced the attendee experience. Differentiation and giving your business personality, was a popular session presented by British gardening guru and TV personality David Domoney. Neville Mackay hosted the Urn Your Profits session, where two floral designers went head-to-head, arranging seasonal urns. Containers offer both retail garden centres and florists additional opportunities to maximize profits.

Tips on how to generate these additional sales were given by Jill Jensen, Jill Jensen Botanicals, and Sue Blaney, Lechuza Canada.

We are proud and appreciative of our event partners and sponsors at Expo 2012: Flowers Canada Retail, Greenstar Plant Products, Global Arch/Stone Arch, Sheridan Nurseries and Landscape Trades.

Congress 2013, LO’s 40th anniversary edition

The 40th anniversary of Congress, Canada’s international horticultural lawn and garden trade show and conference, ran Jan. 8 to 10, 2013.

Canada’s top green industry event generated a lot of energy among its exhibitors and industry professionals, who helped to celebrate 40 years of beautifying Ontario.

Among the main highlights was the upswing in exhibit sales. Revenue trended nearly $40,000 above the event’s budgeted $1.9 million, despite a last-minute exhibit hall renovation that reduced salable

2013 ANNUAL REPORT

The Awards of Excellence are one of the highlights on Landscape Ontario’s yearly calendar

floor space. An additional saving of $50,000 on expenses resulted in a very positive bottom line. Attendance remained consistent at close to 13,000 delegates.

Partners, the Canadian Fence Industry Association, and sponsors were on hand to celebrate — Banas Stones, Chrysler Canada, Global Arch/Stone Arch, Husqvarna Corporate, Toronto Argonauts, Doubletree by Hilton, Landscape Trades, Bobcat Company, Vermeer Canada and Medallion Fence.

Inspired by Monica van Maris to mark the 40th anniversary of Congress, the show committee and LO staff complied videos, photos, a Past Presidents’ Walk of Fame, and interviews with industry founders and past presidents. It was a milestone event to recognize those, who from modest beginnings, have nurtured and grown Congress into one of the top five horticultural events in North America. We thank them for their vision, commitment and legacy toward ensuring a sustainable future.

The juried New Product Showcase was bursting with innovative products, displayed in over 2,000 square feet. The product that garnered the most votes for People’s Choice best new product was the Zrator, from Pro-Power Canada. John Gibson of Farmgate Gardens, Foxboro, won the draw for $250.

Students continue to benefit from the theoretical knowledge acquired at schools offering horticulture programs and the hands-on experience of the Congress student garden builds. The 2013 participants included Humber, Fanshawe, Niagara and St. Clair Colleges and University of Guelph (Ridgetown Campus).

Sally Harvey and Kristen McIntyre, from LO’s Education Department, re-formatted the pre-event program and Congress conferences to give delegates a program that featured the industry’s most popular speakers under the banner, New Favourites and Old Friends. This brought together power-house industry experts and top-notch panels to show delegates how to balance work and play, while growing their businesses. The program is designed to improve professional development and reduce business expenses. Delegates responded with positive feedback, specifically on the quality of the topics, programming and great lunches.

The Awards of Excellence ceremony, a Congress favourite, was hosted by Frank Ferragine of Breakfast Television and CityTV, and included several special presentations celebrating the association’s

and show’s 40-year anniversary. The exceptional quality and outstanding creativity of entries this year was noted by construction judge Alistair Johnston of Strybos Barron King Landscape Architects. The evening was capped off when Karl Stensson of Sheridan Nurseries presented the Dunington-Grubb Award — the highest scoring construction project — to Edengrove Landscapes of Mississauga. Sheridan was beginning its celebration of a century in business. Stensson’s heartfelt speech highlighted his family’s connection to industry pioneer Howard Dunington-Grubb.

Summary

Finally, it is my pleasure to thank volunteers and committee members for all their guidance, insights and help. Our success stems from the personal touch that our volunteers add to our events. We are indeed fortunate that our founders, like Monica van Maris, can help us learn from the past, while staying committed to the future growth of the industry.

We are also benefited, in a year of transition, from the effort of the LO staff, under the new leadership of Heather MacRae and Darryl Bond. Their show management experience and ability to enhance the show experience while keeping a tight rein on expenses has resulted in the continued success of our trade shows.

Respectfully submitted, Beth Edney CLD Chair, 2012-2013

Education, Training and Human Resource Development

Providing the right educational mix remains a priority for your professional development team, based on the realities of the external environment and balancing it with the needs of the industry.

A constantly changing environment requires an evolution of professional development. Our goal has been to ensure that all programming responds to these new realities.

The five pillars of the Prosperity Partners initiative remain a priority.

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 35

Once again, programming was aimed at inspiring and elevating competency within the industry. The Pillars help guide business owners to learn how to advance their businesses, streamline processes and improve company culture. This will result in firms being more productive and profitable.

Your Landscape Ontario staff worked hard to provide the industry with products, services and opportunities that not only inspired, but also resulted in healthy growth, prosperity and improved work and life balance for all.

I have listed some of the professional development highlights over the past year.

Apprenticeship

• Support of all apprenticeship programs • Employer connection to Microskills pre-apprenticeship program • LO representation on Ontario College of Trades

Career promotion

• Supported members and participated in career awareness and promotion opportunities for both secondary and post-secondary students • Keynote speaker at Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program Conference and other education events • Update website and member resources • Development of Skills Ontario Grade 8 awareness material • Green Jobs Forum and Skills Ontario Workshop and Competition • Grant opportunity search underway.

Certification

• Four Landscape Industry Certification practical test dates, and expanded written test locations across the province and at major industry events to improve access • Challenged members to engage using all marketing channels • Launched How Pro Are You video • Launched pilot integrated test model at Fanshawe College • Increase sponsorship in 2013 • Decrease in candidates in 2013 • Improved website

Year

CIT

CLT

CHT

CLD

CLP

Total in Province

2012

526

521

71

53

77

722

2013

526

457

60

54

72

*643

*Reduction due to those that did not re-certify.

Conference, seminars and event highlights

• Increased marketing to engage industry participation • Successful events, however, increased marketing is required to achieve attendance rates • Received positive feedback from participants • Request for online opportunities and live stream attendance

Seminar statistics

Statistics from over the last three years show the number of seminars offered as 158 in 2011, 143 in 2012, and 146 in 2013. The total attendance numbers in 2011, show 1,444 people took part, while 1,347 attended seminars in 2012, and 1,384 in 2013.

HR Toolkit

Employer friendly tool enhanced HR management within firms. The program is updated annually for use by industry, and shared across the CNLA membership. The program can be found at www.horttrades. com/HRToolkit.

Human Resource Development Committee

Feedback was attained through surveys in 2013. The Professional Development and Education Review Committee, chaired by Richard Rogers CLT and Michael Pascoe CLT, once again reviewed the results of Landscape Ontario’s professional development products and services for the past year. The review included focus on content and marketing of professional development opportunities, seminars, Congress conferences and events, sector symposia, online training, Landscape Industry Certification, apprenticeship and Connecting Educators event.

Recommendations from this committee have benefitted members greatly in 2012 and 2013. We thank the committee for the continued leadership and contributions to ever-improving professional development opportunities for the industry.

Industry relations

Ongoing advocacy took place with the following organization: College of Trades, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities, Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Transportation, Workplace Safety Prevention Services, Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, Ministry of Agriculture Horticulture Value Chain Roundtable Labour Working Group (Management and Technical Skills development sub-committee member), Ministry of Agriculture Horticulture Value Chain Roundtable Labour Working Group (sector promotion and career awareness subcommittee member).

LO continues to pursue changing the definition of Landscape Gardener to align with the diverse industry. Communications opened with the Ministry of Labour Employment Standards department to Four Landscape Industry Certified practical tests were held during the year.

36 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

2013 ANNUAL REPORT address overtime exemption and hours of work rules.

Hosted a successful Connecting Educators event, which brought together industry with secondary and post-secondary educators.

Partnered with CNLA and aligned projects to advance human resource development through an accreditation project, OJT Master Trainer Project and HR initiatives.

Safety

In 2012, the LO-sponsored Safety Group saw total group rebate from WSIB of $59,537.07, split among 29 firms.

• Coordination of Safety Council, which met quarterly to discuss safety strategies, gaps and trends within our industry and pending regulation from WSIB, MOL, WSPS, ORCGA, MTO, etc.

• Supported firms undergoing Work Well audits, with positive outcomes • Represented LO on WSPS Agriculture Advisory Committee as vice chair and communicated industry-related challenges • Provided focused communications and efforts to inform membership of compliance news and tools from Ministry of Labour, MTO, ORCGA, WSIB • Improved website navigation

Secondary and post-secondary

• Active support of Skills Ontario and Skills Canada: Grade 8 workshop, landscape design and landscape gardening competitions at secondary and post-secondary levels • Support of Specialist High Skills Major • Support of college program revision and program advisory committees

As partners in prosperity, the Education and Labour Development team has worked tirelessly to implement new strategies and develop existing programming that is relevant to the needs of our industry.

Respectfully submitted, Sally Harvey CLT, CLP Manager, Education and Labour Development Team

IPM Symposium 2013

Chair: Kyle Tobin Committee members: Pam Charbonneau, Paul Gaspar, Rohan Harrison, Monica van Maris, Ken Pavely, Lee Ratcliffe, Violet Van Wassenaer, John Wright The 2013 IPM Symposium marked the 48th annual event, and was held in conjunction with the Congress trade show and conference, on the pre-trade show day, Warm-Up Monday, in the Cohen Ballroom of the Toronto Congress Centre.

Featuring a theme of From the Ground Up, the day focused on a back to basics approach to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies. The overriding commentary from the day helped provide a sense of assurance that as lawn care operators, we are not alone and all endure the same hardships, and can learn from each other’s successes. Lunch was included, as well as a networking reception at the end of the day.

The Symposium ran technical sessions all day, qualifying attendees for IPM Council of Canada CECs. The sessions were capped by a keynote presentation from Tony Bass, co-author of the E-Myth Landscape Contractor. Bass highlighted strategy and tactical thinking as methods to survive in the new world of lawn care.

A special note of appreciation to all our sponsors; we could not

It was a capacity audience at last year’s IPM Symposium at Toronto Congress Centre.

achieve the high level of experience to our guests without their contributions. Also appreciated are the returned attendee surveys; the time is appreciated and the comments will help build and shape future events. This symposium would not be as successful without our dedicated committee members. They all contribute to the success of the event, and their time and expertise is appreciated.

We are professionals in our field of turf and landscape management; and strive to continue to be regarded as such. For all who attended, I wish to express my thanks.

Respectfully submitted, Kyle Tobin Chair 2012 - 2013

Pesticide Industry Council Chair: John Wright Secretary: Tony DiGiovanni Manager PIC-PTP:Tom Somerville

In 2000, the Ontario Ministry of Environment (MOE) implemented new requirements under the Pesticide Act (originally Ontario Regulation 914). Under the new requirements, anyone who applied pesticides had to be either licensed or have Technician Status. The new regulation required that all unlicensed assistants working with licensed exterminators must complete a basic pesticide safety course to acquire Technician Status in order to legally apply pesticides.

The Pesticide Technician Program (PTP) was then established as the basic pesticide safety course to acquire Technician Status and meet the new requirements. The PTP is a basic two-part safety program that incorporates both a practical component and an academic exam in the training requirements.

The Pesticide Industry Council (PIC) was formed on behalf of the pesticide industry by the Lawn Care Commodity Group to implement the new requirements. PIC has worked with MOE since 2000 to meet the new requirements and administer the PTP. Landscape Ontario is the administrator of PTP on behalf of the MOE under the guidance of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

PIC is a council that has representation from: Hydro One, Canadian Golf Superintendents Association, Ontario Golf Superintendents Association, Professional Lawn Care Association of Ontario, Urban Pest Management Council, Crop Protection Institute, International Society of Arboriculture, Ontario Parks Associations, Ontario Vegeta2013 ANNUAL REPORT 37

tion Management Association, Structural Pest Management Association and Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association.

This is the fourth year that PTP and PIC have worked within the framework of the Cosmetic Pesticides Ban Act, 2009. This year, the number of technicians enrolling in the PTP program is 800.

Members of Pesticide Technician Advisory Council (PTAC) for 2013 included Wanda Michalowicz, Crystal LaFrance and Suzanne Durst from the MOE, John Wright, Tom Somerville from the PIC and Gary Vander Heide and Gerald Vander Ploeg from PIRC. PTAC regrets the passing of Gary Vander Heide from PIRC and the retirement of Wanda Michalowicz from the MOE. We will miss Gary Vander Heide. His absence will be noticed. We will also miss the steady course that Wanda Michalowicz kept us on and wish her best in her retirement. We also like to extend a warm welcome to Violet Van Wassenaer as the new chair of PTAC. Respectfully submitted, John Wright Chair 2012-2013

Prosperity Partners

Chair: Hank Gelderman CLT Members: Gerald Boot CLP; Bill DeLuca; Leon Denbok CLP, CLT; Mark Fisher; Eric Gordon; Jacki Hart CLP; Ryan Heath CLP; CLT; Tim Kearney CLP; Bob Tubby CLP; Michael Van Dongen CHT This past year has seen the Prosperity Partners program launch the new Effective Management Short Course to rave reviews. This was introduced at Warm-Up Monday in January, and was a sold-out workshop.

A great group of 50 business owners and managers came together for the day to brainstorm ideas, test new techniques and network with each other in break-out groups. A great new box of management tools was introduced and practiced by everyone.

The best part of this new short course launch was the feedback (at least from my side of the desk). Presented by Tim Kearney and Jacki Hart, participants were fully engaged throughout the day. At the end, they left consistent feedback remarks asking for more.

We will offer this short course program again on Warm-Up Monday on Jan. 6 at Congress 2014, in addition to offering a new Peer Group Program for Prosperity Partners graduates.

The theme we keep hearing over and over again is that our members want to learn from each other. They want opportunities to meet face to face, learn and share with credible, relevant facilitators.

This feedback has encouraged us to create a peer group format, which we will also launch at Warm Up Monday.

We continue to offer the Build Your Prosperity workshop seminars, and continue to see familiar faces come back for a refresher, as well as engage new members and business owners from every sector.

We’re looking forward to continuing to take your feedback, and transform it into a relevant tool for your business and career Prosperity goals.

Our Prosperity Engagement Award continues to bring numerous nominations each year. It’s another form of testimony that Prosperity Partners engages and provides a common language for members to use daily.

Respectfully submitted, Hank Gelderman Chair 2013

38 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

2013 Volunteers Committees

Phil Charal, president of Landscape Ontario, offers his appreciation to the volunteers who sit on LO’s committees.

Landscape Ontario volunteers serve their association in many ways, from sittinging on committees to decide the future of the industry and the association, or helping at special events. Committees include, Accreditation, Awards of Excellence, Board of Directors, Branding, Building, Chapter Boards (Durham, Georgian Lakelands, Golden Horseshoe, London, Ottawa, Toronto, Upper Canada, Waterloo and Windsor), Communication, Executive/Finance, Environmental Stewardship, Foundation, Sectors Groups (Garden Centres, Grounds Management, Growers, Interior Plantscapes, Irrigation, Landscape Designers, Landscape Contractors, Lighting, Lawn Care and Snow and Ice Management), IPM Symposium, Past Presidents, Pesticide Industry Council, Prosperity Partners, Trade Show and Trial Gardens.

The following members have freely offered their time, energy and expertise to help keep Landscape Ontario a valuable and strong association.

Jamie Aalbers Randy Adams RM Adams Trucking Robert Adams Rob Albrecht John’s Nursery Sundaura Alford CLD A Cultivated Art Bob Allen RW Allen Horticultural Services John Allison CLT, CLD The Corporation of the City of Brampton Kevin Almeida Almeida and Almeida Landscaping Susan Antler Compost Council of Canada Vince Arone Pinpoint GPS Solutions Lynne Barnes Gordon J Leece Landscapes Andrew Barz Meadowbrook Landscape Contracting Brian Baun B.K. Baun Landscape Andrew Beattie CIT Ideal Landscape Services Barry Benjamin Barry Benjamin and Associates Sue Blaney Lechuza Canada Thomas Blatter CLP Dreamestate Landscaping Michael Boffo Boffo Landscaping

Robert Boffo Boffo Landscaping Adam Bonin CLT Fern Ridge Landscaping Gerald Boot CLP Boot’s Landscaping and Maintenance John Bos CLT Bos Landscaping Neil Bouma Picture Perfect Landscaping Quinte Gerwin Bouman Stam Nurseries Dave Braun Braun Nursery Steve Brewer CIT Gelderman Landscape Services Paul Brydges Brydges Landscape Architecture Cor Bultena Eloquip Ltd Richard Burch CLT, CLP, CIT Burch Landscape Services Matt Burke CLT Clintar Landscape Management Hamilton Chris Burns CLT Clintar Landscape Management Ottawa Margot Byers Ladybird Garden Design Connie Cadotte CLD Garden Retreats Steve Carrothers AEON Gazebo

2013 ANNUAL REPORT Laura Catalano Nisco National Leasing Phil Charal Allweather Landscape Pam Charbonneau Guelph Turfgrass Institute Don Chase CLD Seferian Design Group Terry Childs Nature’s Way Landscaping Brian Clegg Allweather Landscape Brian Cocks CLT Douglas Coote DG Coote Enterprises Louise Cottreau AWS Irrigation Management Tim Cruickshanks Cruickshanks Property Services Jim Curran Lafleur de la Capitale Chris Davies Vanden Bussche Irrigation Gavin Dawson GreenLawn Mike DeBoer CLT Gelderman Landscape Services Paul DeGroot Connon Nurseries/NVK Holdings Harry DeVries Lexi Dearborn Dearborn Designs and Associates Harold Deenen CLP Hank Deenen Landscaping Ken Dehaan Dutchman Lawn and Garden Barry Dickson B.R. Dickson Equipment Jason Dietrich Ace Lawn Care Charlie Dobbin Garden Solutions by Charlie Dobbin Paulo Domingues CIT Aquaman Irrigation Paul Doornbos CLT, CLP Thornbusch Landscaping Lindsay Drake Nightingale Yorkshire Garden Services Beth Edney CLD Designs By The Yard Janet Ennamorato Creative Garden Designs Kevin Falls Carmine Filice CLP Greentario Landscaping (2006) Shawn Foley CIT The Waterboys Contracting Mike Fulcher Permacon Ottawa Carol Fulford Gerrits Property Services John Fulford Gerrits Property Services

Dan Garlatti Garlatti Landscaping Paul Gaspar Weed Man - Toronto Jason Gaw Sycamore Landscape Derek Geddes Coldstream Land Escape Company Brandon Gelderman Jameson Pool Landscape Hank Gelderman CLT Harry Gelderman CLT Gelderman Landscape Services Kara Gibbons Toro Company Jeff Gilberds CLT, CLP Clintar Landscape Management Anne Gilson Trillium Associates Sabrina Goettler CLP Oriole Landscaping Jeff Gregg V Kraus Nurseries Dan Grieve CLP Grieve Home Maintenance Perry Grobe Grobe Nursery and Garden Centre Paul Grotier Direct Solutions Peter Guinane Oriole Landscaping David Gunn Gunn-Duncan Landscaping Kevin Hackson CLT Hackstone: Stone Craftsmen Jerry Hakkers Sifton Properties Ed Hansen Hansen Lawn and Gardens Grant Harrison CLT Escapes Outdoor Living Designs Rohan Harrison Premier Turf Carl Hastings Arbordale Landscaping/Moonstruck Landscape Lighting Ryan Heath CLT, CLP Royal Stone Landscaping and Design Nathan Helder Gelderman Landscape Services Edward Hewis Ground Control Contracting John Hewson CLP Greenscape Lawn Maintenance John Higo Turf Care Products Canada Barry Hordyk Shademaster Landscaping Leon Hordyk Shademaster Landscaping Martin Horsman Gelderman Landscape Services Doug Hubble Direct Solutions

Mark Humphries Humphries Landscape Services Kim Iceton Somerville Nurseries Tom Intven Canadale Nurseries Sean James Fern Ridge Landscaping Jill Jensen Jill Jensen Botanical Specialties Joan Johnston Peter Knippel Nursery Kennedy Johnston CLT Peter Knippel Nursery Sarah Johnston Greenlife - Ottawa Wholesale Nursery William Jordan Urban Meadows Nicola Kamp Nicola’s Garden Art Anthony Kampen Boot’s Landscaping and Maintenance Kelly Keates Pro-Land Landscape Construction Robert Kennaley McLauchlin & Associates Hella Keppo CLT Stems Interior Landscaping Christoph Kessel Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food Mark Kimmerly Allweather Landscape Alice Klamer Blue Sky Nursery Karl Klinck Orchard Farm Nursery Allan Kling CLP Urban Garden Supply Ben Kobes Kobes Nurseries Ron Koudys CLD Ron Koudys Landscape Architects Michael LaPorte CLT Clearview Nursery John Lamberink CIT, CIC Aquality Irrigation and Illumination Marty Lamers Oaks Concrete Products

by Brampton Brick Janice Laurin Connon Nurseries/NVK Holdings Chas Lawton CHT, CIT Taylor Nursery Chris Le Conte CIC, CLIA Smart Watering Systems Jeffrey Lee Lee’s Landscaping Shannon Lindensmith Georgina Garden Centre Jennifer Llewellyn Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food Brian Lofgren Horta-Craft Limited Anthony Lombardi CLP, CLD Dr. Landscape

Jeff Lowartz CLT Connon Nurseries/CBV Holdings Arvils Lukss Landscapes By Lucin Glen Lumis University of Guelph Mike Lunau CLT, CLP Eden Gardenworks Cory MacCallum CIT Greenscape Watering Systems Fran MacKenzie J. Lockwood Chrysler Dan MacLean Grand River Natural Stone Gary MacPhail Ego’s Nurseries Steve Macartney CIT

Raintree Irrigation and Outdoor Systems

Chris Mace Gelderman Landscape Services Mark Mallette Mallette Landscaping Jim Maloney CLT Clintar Landscape Management Kitchener John Mantel Connon Nurseries/AVK Holdings Brian Marsh Earth Art Landscapes Regine Marsh Earth Art Landscapes Ken Martin Copper Expressions Landscape Lighting and Design Michael Martins Kimmick Landscaping Mark Mastantuono CLT Clintar Landscape Management Oakville/Burlington Teresa Matamoros Garden Holistics Craig Mathews Unilock Bob McCannell Georgina Garden Centre Pamela McCormick CLP

Simply Landscaping and Garden Designs

Jim McCracken Hugh McCracken o/a McCracken Landscape Design Darby McGrath

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre

Mike McGrath CLT Jeff McMann CLT Town of Markham Burke McNeill Don McQueen CIT Nutri-Lawn - Burlington Jim Melo Melo Landscaping Rob Mendonca Unilock Brian Mettel B&L Mettel Norm Mills Kobes Nurseries

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 39

Mike Miltenburg Turf Revolution Jim Monk Markham Property Services John Moons Connon Nurseries/NVK Holdings Bruce Morton CLP, CIT, CID, CIC Greenscape Watering Systems Janet Mott CLP Christine’s Touch Gardening Kelly Mulrooney-Cote Geosynthetic Systems Rob Naraj CHT Sheridan Nurseries (Georgetown) Roy Neves CLIA, CID, CIC DJ Rain and Co Terry Nicholson CLT Clintar Landscape Management John O’Leary CLT Clintar Landscape Management Paul Olsen Brookdale Treeland Nurseries Peter Olsen Royal City Nursery Keith Osborne Gro-Bark (Ontario) MarkOstrowski Laurel Forest Farms Nanthakumar Paramanathan Jason Partridge

The Scott Wentworth Landscape Group

Michael Pascoe CLT Fanshawe College Warren Patterson Botanix - Barrie’s Garden Centre Ken Pavely CLT Lawn Life John Peets John Peets Landscaping Fred Persia Innovative Surface Solutions Frans Peters Humber Nurseries David Pierce CAP Brick Nick Pisano National Research Council Canada Carolyne Planck Unilock Fred Post CLD Your Designer Landscapes Chris Power Bellaire Landscape Fred Prescod CLT Plan It With Plants Sian Pritchard The Cutting Garden Chuck Pronger Watergardens Unlimited Paul Proulx Hunter Industries Bill Putzer M. Putzer Hornby Nursery

40 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

John Putzer M. Putzer Hornby Nursery Lee Ratcliffe Dr. Green Services Richard Reed Lawn Life Jamie Riddell John Deere Landscapes Mike Riehm Envirobond Products Jay Rivait Top Grade Landscape and Garden Solutions Darren Rodrigues HUB Sinclair Cockburn International Mike Ross CIC, CLIA Rain Bird International Robert Roszell Road Equipment Links Gregg Salivan Salivan Landscape Matt Sandink CIC, CLIA Smart Watering Systems April Scarlett Urban Landscape Solutions Greg Scarlett CLT Urban Landscape Solutions Stephen Schell CLT The Plant Lady Dean Schofield Landmark Landscaping Joel Schraven Pickering Nurseries Haig Seferian CLD Seferian Design Group Frank Selles CLT Framar Landscape and Maintenance Contractors Brian Shelfoon Permacon - Toronto Janice Shingler Sheridan Nurseries (Whitby) Gord Shuttleworth Delaware Nursery Marina Signer Brydges Landscape Architecture Klaas Sikkema Scott Sim CIT The Toro Store Arthur Skolnik Shibui Landscaping Jeff Smith Lynden Lawn Care Paul Snyders PGS Landscape James Solecki Integra Bespoke Lighting Systems Nick Solty Solty and Sons Fred Somerville Somerville Nurseries Jonas Spring Ecoman Patricia Stanish CLD Patricia Stanish Landscape Design

Christine Stein Direct Solutions Bill Stensson Sheridan Nurseries (Georgetown) Karl Stensson Sheridan Nurseries (Georgetown) Laurie-Ann Stuart LA Gardens Ron Swentiski CLD Trillium Associates Donald Tellier CLT, CLIA, CIC Deerbrook Landscaping and Nursery Jay Terryberry St. Clair College Robert Tester TNT Property Maintenance Marc Thiebaud

OGS Grounds Maintenance Specialists

Rene Thiebaud CLP OGS Landscape Services Rich Thiebaud OGS Landscape Services Mike Thomas The Investment Guild James Thompson J Garfield Thompson Landscape Jeff Thompson Native Plant Source Dave Tillaart Dutchmaster Nurseries Kyle Tobin LawnSavers Plant Health Care Tim Tripp Neudorff North America Rodger Tschanz University of Guelph Steve Tschanz Turf Management Systems/Truly Nolen Bob Tubby CLP Arbordale Landscaping/Moonstruck Landscape Lighting David Turnbull CHT David Turnbull and Associates Chris Urquhart CLP Green Unlimited Phil Van Alstyne CLT Michael Van Dongen CHT Van Dongen’s Landscaping and Nurseries

Jay VanGelder DenBok Landscaping and Design Jack VandeRee CLT Boot’s Landscaping and Maintenance Art Vanden Enden CHT Sheridan Nurseries (Whitby) Neil Vanderkruk Connon Nurseries/NVK Holdings Peter Vanderley CLP Pete Vanderley’s Lawn Maintenance and Landscape Services Anna van Maris Parklane Nurseries Monica van Maris Van Maris Holdings Don Voorhees

Steve Wall Wall To Wall Landscaping Mike Watson Kelly’s Tree Care Rita Weerdenburg Canadian Nursery Landscape Association Jeanine West PhytoServ Henry Westerhof Kam’s Growers Supply Alan White Turf Systems Joe Willemse DiMarco Landscape Lighting Bruce Wilson

Permacon Group - Greater Toronto Area

Robert Wilton CLT Clintar Landscape Management Dan Winstanley Marsh Canada Jarrett Woodard Grand River Brick and Stone David Wright CLP Wright Landscape Services John Wright Wright Lawn Care Services Corey Yourkin CIT, CIC Vanden Bussche Irrigation - King City Andre Ypma Modern Earthscapes Land Design Alex Zalewski CLT Parklane Nurseries Jason Zehr Rural Roots Landscaping Fiore Zenone Tumbleweed Landscape Contracting Helmut Zgraja Helmutz Landscape and Interlock Youbin Zheng University of Guelph

2013 ANNUAL REPORT Special events

Phil Charal, president of Landscape Ontario, expresses his thanks to those volunteers who assist and participate at numerous events during the year: Canada Blooms, certification, golf tournaments, baseball tournaments, Chapter home shows, awards judging, Congress, Expo, Green Trade Expo, Ottawa Day of Tribute and other Chapter events.

Louella Ameralik Algonquin College Casey Anderson CLT Fanshawe College Stephen Anderson Stihl Trevor Ardis Bell Secondary School Robyn Avery Kemptville College Jessica Banchand Algonquin College Karin Banerd Garden by Design Kenzie Baribeau Algonquin College Simon Barnes CLT Bos Landscaping Karinthia Battig CLT, CIT City of Toronto Dave Berghout Kemptville College Lindsey Best Hansen Lawn and Gardens Celine Blanchard Algonquin College Vasili Bnonsalis Algonquin College Adam Braun CLT Gelderman Landscape Services Scott Brian Kemptville College Christie Brimmer Eric Brooks CLP Eco Landscaping Jarret Brown Kemptville College Amanda Carrigan Algonquin College Lorie Casselman Kemptville College Harry Chang Humber College Mark Cluthe Kemptville College Melanie Cristiano CIT Greenscape Watering Systems Trevor Cullen CLT Cullen Landscaping Alex Darvell Kemptville College Stacy Elliott Bradley’s Insurance

Jeremy Ermond Kemptville College Nic Gaudet Kemptville College Allan Gauthier Algonquin College Tyler Graham Margarete Haefele CLD Landscape Garten Ed Hansen Hansen Lawn and Gardens Rick Harvey CLT, CLP Green Design Landscaping Sonja Hirsig CLT Hirsig Landscapes Phil Huard Bell Secondary School Chris Huebert CLT Clintar Landscape Management Kitchener John Hutten CLT, CIT Artistic Landscape Services Mary Anne Jackson-Hughes Algonquin College Albert Jerome CLT Zone 5 Landscaping and Property Maintenance Alistair Johnston Strybos Barron King Sara Katz Wild at Heart Design Karen Lamarche Algonquin College Phil Landry Algonquin College Stephanie Lemke Kemptville College Will Lipscombe Kemptville College Jim Lounsbery Mohawk College Kevin MacDonald Connon Nurseries/CBV Holdings (Trenton) Alan Malcolmson CLT Len Mancini Holland Park Garden Gallery Louie Marchan Algonquin College Nan Matheson Algonquin College Mallory McClinchy Algonquin College Diane McClymont Algonquin College

Sean McNiel Kemptville College Jeff Menzies Algonquin College Joshua Messier Kemptville College Lucas Michielsen CLT Fanshawe College Matt Mintz CLT Rick Mowry CIT Greenscape Watering Systems Steve Neumann Algonquin College Terry O’Brien Algonquin College Richard Osborne Cory Ovans Kemptville College Fred Paiva CHT Sheridan Nurseries (Whitby) Sebastien Papineau CIT Greenscape Watering Systems Natalie Pavlakovic Greenscape Watering Chris Pearson CLT Heritage Green Landscape Contractors Daniel Pershaw Kemptville College Jason Poirier Kemptville College Eric Prah Algonquin College Rod Pring CLT Clintar Landscape Management Hamilton Tracy Pring CLP Clintar Landscape Management Hamilton Heather Purdy Kemptville College Britney Radford Alysha Riggs Kemptville College Andrew Rock Algonquin College Mariana Rodriguez Algonquin College Richard Rogers CLT R J Rogers Landscaping Sharon Rouette-Urquhart Green Unlimited Louise Ryan Algonquin College Vincent Santino Manderley Turf Products Isabella Santino Richard Schives CLT Clintar Landscape Management – London Paul Schnarr CIT Clintar Landscape Management Kitchener Duane Schutten CLT Heritage Green Landscape Contractors

Brittany Semmler Kemptville College Pauline Simpson Jashua Simpson-Fisher Claude Smith Kemptville College Michele Sutherland-Simpson Colleen Tataryn CHT Loblaws Supermarket Jenny Throup Algonquin College Ashley Tilley Kemptville College Adam Tyman CLT Clintar Landscape Management London Olivia Urquhart Cory van Berkom Algonquin College Erin Van Gilst Create it!

Violet Van Wassenaer Ministry of the Environment Matt Vine Kemptville College Marilyn Whitaker Algonquin College Brad Willis CIC Turf Care Products Canada Sarah Willits The Professional Gardener James Wilson Kemptville College Jarrett Woodard Grand River Brick and Stone Chuck Yates CIT Yates Custom Lawn Sprinklers Companies Algonquin College Horticultural Program Clintar Landscape Management - Ottawa Greenscape Watering Systems Hansen Lawn and Gardens Horticare Landscaping Lafleur de la Capitale Lindsay Landscape Natural Impressions Landscaping The Professional Gardener

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 41

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 2013 BALANCE SHEET Assets Cash Investments Accrued interest Accounts receivable Prepaid expenses Capital assets Land/building-Vineland Land/building-Steeles Ave Land/building-Head office Total assets Liabilities and Surplus Accounts payable Accounts payable-Garden Centre Goup Accounts payable-Growers Group Accounts payable-IPM Symposium Accounts payable-Special Projects Deferred revenue Hort. Centre improvement fund Hort. Industry development fund Technology fund Promotion fund Surplus-members equity Net income Total liabilities and surplus

2012 Audited Statements

2013 Audited Statements

$286,667 1,218,787 27,252 2,010,299 652,181 0 57,645 580,462 1,243,947 6,077,240

$265,501 1,229,108 53,890 1,919,230 705,060 29,925 57,645 580,462 1,243,947 6,084,767

735,033 1,926 22,525 14,073 15,938 2,820,877 793,857 582,334 6,431 3,263 1,046,568 34,414 6,077,240

737,974 (6,553) 27,089 21,089 (119,647) 2,987,365 730,862 563,708 9,079 4,916 1,046,568 82,317 6,084,767

FUND ALLOCATIONS

2012 Audited Statements

2013 Audited Statements

$660,372 (78,038) 0 0 582,334

$582,334 (18,626) 0 22,317 586,025

Horticultural Centre Improvement Fund Opening balance Expenditures Industry funding/donations Transfer from net income Closing balance

871,544 (79,007) 1,320 0 793,857

793,857 (62,995) 0 0 730,862

Technology Fund Opening balance Expenditures Transfer from net income Closing balance

24,183 (17,752) 17,207 23,638

23,638 (14,559) 40,000 49,079

Promotion Fund Opening balance Expenditures Industry funding/donations Transfer from net income Closing balance

20,263 (17,000) 0 17,207 20,470

20,470 (15,554) 0 20,000 24,916

Horticultural Industry Development Fund Opening balance Expenditures Industry funding/donations Transfer from net income Closing balance

INVESTMENTS Maturity Date

Rate of Return

Opening Value At Cost Sept. 1/12

Purchases At Cost

Disposals

Gain/Loss Disposals

Brookfield Asset Mgmt Coupon Apr 25, 2017 Bank of Nova Scotia Coupon Jan 22, 2016 Bank of Montreal Coupon Apr 21, 2016 Res Sun Life Financial Coupon Jan 30, 2018 Res H&R Real Estate Coupon Mar 2, 2020

3.96 % 2.43 % 2.63 % 3.34 % 3.64 %

121,477 449,999 647,312

0 0 0 449,999 131,798

121,477

5,985

449,999

16,205

1,218,787

581,797

571,476

22,191

Totals

Realized Interest On Disposals

0

Accrued Interest Aug. 31/13

Closing Value At Cost Aug. 31/13

Market Value Aug. 31/13

0 21,031 30,428 0 2,432

0 449,999 647,312 0 131,798

0 469,302 678,520 0 126,998

53,890

1,229,108

1,274,819

INCOME STATEMENT - DEPARTMENTAL SUMMARY

Revenue General Membership Publications Congress Expo Education Total revenue Expenses General Membership Publications Congress Expo Education Total expenses Net income(loss)

42 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

2012 Audited Statements

2013 Audited Statements

2013 Revised Budgets

2014 Revised Budgets

2015 Proposed Budgets

255,934 1,005,345 836,752 1,941,723 531,199 217,444 4,788,397

278,647 1,053,754 798,510 1,998,840 429,649 259,713 4,819,112

252,400 1,022,000 868,200 1,950,500 538,000 195,000 4,826,100

249,400 1,062,681 832,000 1,994,350 391,000 256,700 4,786,131

249,400 1,062,681 832,000 1,994,350 391,000 256,700 4,786,131

2,286,622 606,850 322,158 1,043,581 346,797 147,975 4,753,983

2,385,406 619,016 235,205 1,033,705 284,727 178,736 4,736,795

2,362,000 639,586 307,950 1,051,715 346,750 117,000 4,825,001

2,341,400 680,244 247,250 1,068,345 275,800 169,620 4,782,659

2,341,400 680,244 247,250 1,068,345 275,800 169,620 4,782,659

34,414

82,317

1,099

3,472

3,472

2013 ANNUAL REPORT LANDSCAPE ONTARIO AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 2013 INCOME STATEMENT - GENERAL 2012 Audited Statements

2013 Audited Statements

2013 Revised Budgets

2014 Revised Budgets

2015 Proposed Budgets

$120,247 35,605 27,275 62,351 8,400 2,055 255,934

$116,073 73,762 30,974 22,191 23,400 12,248 278,647

$116,000 73,000 53,000 1,000 8,400 1,000 252,400

$116,000 73,000 50,000 1,000 8,400 1,000 249,400

$116,000 73,000 50,000 1,000 8,400 1,000 249,400

57,770 31,712 30,993 15,487 62,260 62,973 20,461 6,210 4,743 22,019 14,046 4,962 18,000 4,186 683 20,978 15,888 62,316 6,808 1,374 477 15,108 73,085 1,263 553,801

63,908 21,501 32,158 18,063 52,649 64,229 20,398 7,939 5,309 21,975 7,576 3,641 18,000 205 678 20,849 11,698 64,773 5,219 1,384 2,332 8,145 68,639 2,416 523,687

64,000 25,000 33,000 21,000 42,000 65,000 20,000 4,500 5,000 22,000 12,000 6,000 19,000 3,000 1,000 21,000 15,000 55,000 9,000 1,000 2,500 12,000 72,000 2,000 532,000

70,400 20,000 31,000 19,000 50,000 62,000 16,000 7,000 6,000 22,000 10,000 4,000 18,000 1,000 500 21,000 13,000 60,000 7,000 1,000 3,000 8,000 70,000 2,500 522,400

70,400 20,000 31,000 19,000 50,000 62,000 16,000 7,000 6,000 22,000 10,000 4,000 18,000 1,000 500 21,000 13,000 60,000 7,000 1,000 3,000 8,000 70,000 2,500 522,400

1,536,731 104,063 92,027 1,732,821

1,642,165 126,179 93,375 1,861,719

1,625,000 112,000 93,000 1,830,000

1,600,000 125,000 94,000 1,819,000

1,600,000 125,000 94,000 1,819,000

2,286,622 (2,030,688) 1,372,326 599,913 (58,450)

2,385,406 (2,106,759) 1,417,113 594,593 (95,053)

2,362,000 (2,109,600)

2,341,400 (2,092,000)

2,341,400 (2,092,000)

2012 Audited Statements

2013 Audited Statements

2013 Revised Budgets

2014 Revised Budgets

2015 Proposed Budgets

26,089 158,260 33,095 217,444

20,751 186,941 52,021 259,713

15,000 150,000 30,000 195,000

15,000 208,500 33,200 256,700

15,000 208,500 33,200 256,700

3,259 99,895 28,976 3,845 12,000 147,975

5,745 103,710 53,238 4,043 12,000 178,736

1,000 85,000 15,000 4,000 12,000 117,000

12,300 97,100 44,220 4,000 12,000 169,620

12,300 97,100 44,220 4,000 12,000 169,620

Net income (loss)

69,469

80,977

78,000

87,080

87,080

Wage allocations

(167,743)

Revenue Rent Administration fees Earned interest Gains/losses-investments Information technology/web fees Miscellaneous Total revenue Expenses Administrative expenses Property taxes Telephone Hydro Heat Maintenance-yard Maintenance-building Office supplies Office equipment Computer equip/software Information technology/web exps Postage Courier Audit Legal fees Advertising Insurance expense Meeting expenses Travel Dues and subscriptions Donations Training (staff) Miscellaneous expenses Bank charges and interest (Gain) loss on foreign exchange Total expenses Compensation Wages Benefits Source deductions Total Total expenses Net income(loss) Wage allocations Overhead allocations Net income(loss) net of allocations

INCOME STATEMENT - EDUCATION

Revenue Special projects Trade courses Certification Total revenue Expenses Special projects Trade courses Certification Promotion Foundation scholarships funding Total expenses

Overhead allocations Net income (loss) net of allocations

(175,909)

(74,989)

(74,324)

(173,263)

(169,256)

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 43

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 2013

INCOME STATEMENT - PUBLISHING: LANDSCAPE TRADES MAGAZINE 2012 Audited Statements

2013 Audited Statements

2013 Revised Budgets

2014 Revised Budgets

2015 Proposed Budgets

$540,513 7,230 38,493 5,661 5,347 44,000 641,245

$545,019 8,180 45,467 3,326 2,569 44,000 648,560

$572,000 8,000 35,000 5,500 5,500 44,000 670,000

$572,000 7,500 40,000 5,000 4,000 44,000 672,500

$572,000 7,500 40,000 5,000 4,000 44,000 672,500

Discounts Member discounts Agency discounts Total otal discounts Gross revenue

64,843 12,479 77,322 563,923

63,378 15,648 79,027 569,533

75,000 15,000 90,000 580,000

70,000 15,000 85,000 587,500

70,000 15,000 85,000 587,500

Expenses Printing Freelance editorial Editorial travel Sales travel Mail preparation Poly bag costs Postage (2nd class) Postage (foreign) Courier charges Subscription campaign Promotion/media kits Ccab circulation audit Miscellaneous Bad debts Total otal expenses

90,368 10,943 1,075 14,227 7,332 4,744 54,771 577 1,110 521 4,842 6,308 294 5,801 202,914

51,089 14,322 2,347 10,227 10,297 8,495 53,871 1,404 1,520 1,461 4,219 4,291 1,427 0 164,968

70,000 12,000 3,000 14,000 8,000 5,000 55,000 3,000 1,500 1,000 6,000 5,500 500 2,000 186,500

54,000 10,000 3,000 14,000 10,500 9,500 55,000 1,500 1,500 1,000 4,000 5,500 500 2,000 172,000

54,000 10,000 3,000 14,000 10,500 9,500 55,000 1,500 1,500 1,000 4,000 5,500 500 2,000 172,000

Net income(loss)

361,010

404,565

393,500

415,500

415,500

Revenue Advertising Web display ads Polybag Classified ads Subscriptions Member subscriptions Total otal revenue

INCOME STATEMENT - PUBLISHING: LANDSCAPE ONTARIO MAGAZINE 2012 Audited Statements

2013 Audited Statements

2013 Revised Budgets

2014 Revised Budgets

2015 Proposed Budgets

138,587 5,748 6,645 13,996 0 74 44,000 209,051

135,983 11,934 4,317 16,030 0 39 44,000 212,303

145,000 6,000 6,000 11,000 12,000 200 44,000 224,200

145,000 8,000 5,000 14,000 6,000 0 44,000 222,000

145,000 8,000 5,000 14,000 6,000 0 44,000 222,000

24,848 218 25,065 183,985

23,700 321 24,021 188,282

25,000 1,000 26,000 198,200

25,000 500 25,500 196,500

25,000 500 25,500 196,500

Expenses Printing Editorial travel Mail preparations Poly bag costs Postage Miscellaneous Bad debts Total expenses

38,503 1,511 5,927 1,925 17,538 300 0 65,704

24,578 1,282 8,349 3,900 17,033 150 0 55,291

30,000 1,000 7,000 2,700 18,000 250 500 59,450

25,000 1,000 7,000 3,500 18,000 250 500 55,250

25,000 1,000 7,000 3,500 18,000 250 500 55,250

Net income (loss)

118,281

132,990

138,750

141,250

141,250

Revenue Advertising Polybag Classified ads Web classsified ads Enews ads Subscriptions Member subscriptions Total revenue Discounts: Member discounts Agency discounts Total discounts Gross revenue

44 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

2013 ANNUAL REPORT LANDSCAPE ONTARIO AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 2013 PUBLISHING - SPECIAL PROJECTS 2012 Audited Statements Revenue Expenses Net income (loss)

2013 Audited Statements

2013 Revised Budgets

2014 Revised Budgets

2015 Proposed Budgets

$40,695 14,945 25,750

$90,000 62,000 28,000

$48,000 20,000 28,000

$48,000 20,000 28,000

2013 Audited Statements

2013 Revised Budgets

2014 Revised Budgets

2015 Proposed Budgets

942,873 43,521 2,107 16,843 1,005,345

960,411 61,474 8,914 22,955 1,053,754

950,000 50,000 2,000 20,000 1,022,000

979,181 60,500 5,000 18,000 1,062,681

979,181 60,500 5,000 18,000 1,062,681

277,397 88,000 77,598 5,620 1,993 1,183 6,364 21,706 18,865 34,043 11,410 544,180

280,984 88,000 80,874 4,812 2,044 8,050 0 13,215 27,123 38,669 11,319 555,091

280,000 88,000 70,000 7,000 2,000 2,000 8,000 18,000 20,000 35,000 10,000 540,000

289,770 88,000 94,450 6,000 2,200 5,000 5,000 15,000 20,000 40,000 10,000 575,420

289,770 88,000 94,450 6,000 2,200 5,000 5,000 15,000 20,000 40,000 10,000 575,420

3,230 6,290 9,480 7,010 6,342 4,045 5,418 6,550 3,770 926 937 1,203 3,094 272 476 469 2,289 763 106 62,670

3,200 6,550 3,833 6,332 6,290 10,609 6,264 6,234 3,426 3,733 3,158 263 (919) 233 890 (59) 2,369 1,149 373 63,925

3,200 6,550 9,440 7,208 6,290 20,542 6,264 6,472 3,620 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 99,586

4,640 8,728 9,666 9,438 9,136 10,864 8,536 8,776 5,040 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 104,824

4,640 8,728 9,666 9,438 9,136 10,864 8,536 8,776 5,040 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 104,824

606,850 398,495 (459,833) (149,978) (211,316)

619,016 434,738 (461,201) (148,648) (175,112)

639,586 382,414

680,244 382,437

680,244 382,437

$88,843 53,540 35,303

PUBLISHING - SUMMARY 2012 Audited Statements Net income (loss)-publishing department Wage allocations Overhead allocations Net income (loss) net of allocations

514,594 (479,708) (112,484) (77,598)

2013 Audited Statements 563,305 (469,162) (111,486) (17,343)

INCOME STATEMENT - MEMBERSHIP SERVICES

Revenue Membership dues Awards of excellence Merchandise Referral fees Total revenue Expenses General CNLA membership dues Member subscriptions Awards of excellence Membership plaques Annual report Merchandise Membership campaign Membership booth Promotion-members Promotion-Canada Blooms Promotion-GFL/branding Total expenses Chapters and sector groups Windsor London Golden Horseshoe Waterloo Ottawa Toronto Georgian Lakelands Durham Upper Canada Growers Lawn Care Garden Centre Landscape Contractors Grounds Maintenance Designers Irrigation Interiorscape Snow and Ice Landscape lighting Total chapters and sector groups Total expenses Net income (loss) Wage allocations Overhead allocations Net income (loss) net of allocations

2012 Audited Statements

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 45

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 2013 INCOME STATEMENT - CONGRESS 2012 Audited Statements

2013 Audited Statements

2013 Revised Budgets

2014 Revised Budgets

2015 Proposed Budgets

$1,935,384 58,800 137,438 28,456 1,000 2,161,078

$1,977,425 65,570 132,719 31,077 2,357 2,209,148

$1,938,000 55,000 137,000 30,000 1,000 2,161,000

$1,979,500 59,750 132,000 30,000 2,000 2,203,250

$1,979,500 59,750 132,000 30,000 2,000 2,203,250

Discounts Member discounts Member discounts-partners Total discounts Gross revenue

210,930 8,425 219,355 1,941,723

204,108 6,200 210,308 1,998,840

200,000 10,500 210,500 1,950,500

200,000 8,900 208,900 1,994,350

200,000 8,900 208,900 1,994,350

Expenses Exhibit hall Security Show services Feature area Garden subsidy Speakers Conferences-f&b Registration services Audio visual equipment Receptions Printing Promotion Public relations services Advertising Photography Flowers Insurance Move in/move out Snow removal Travel Parking Police Postage Janitorial Software Labour Commissions-partners Miscellaneous Total expenses

381,986 24,804 109,374 3,500 15,605 23,967 29,381 33,980 22,311 41,215 29,563 10,404 7,133 36,038 4,653 513 5,881 103,804 0 45,101 11,700 1,743 24,065 44,100 8,781 3,117 14,725 6,138 1,043,581

389,545 25,612 108,551 3,500 14,153 24,490 27,121 33,745 19,421 32,226 22,817 6,650 9,120 32,588 2,500 1,458 5,881 110,552 0 43,947 12,285 1,743 23,007 50,725 8,717 2,584 13,568 7,203 1,033,705

393,415 25,500 110,000 3,500 10,000 25,000 30,000 37,000 15,000 33,000 32,000 12,000 8,700 28,000 2,000 1,000 6,000 105,000 10,000 40,000 12,000 2,000 24,600 45,500 10,500 5,000 20,000 5,000 1,051,715

401,545 25,500 110,000 3,500 14,000 25,000 30,000 34,000 22,000 33,000 30,000 11,500 9,800 29,000 2,500 1,000 6,000 110,000 10,000 40,000 12,500 2,000 25,300 48,600 8,600 5,000 13,000 5,000 1,068,345

401,545 25,500 110,000 3,500 14,000 25,000 30,000 34,000 22,000 33,000 30,000 11,500 9,800 29,000 2,500 1,000 6,000 110,000 10,000 40,000 12,500 2,000 25,300 48,600 8,600 5,000 13,000 5,000 1,068,345

898,143

965,135

898,785

926,005

926,005

Revenue Exhibit space Exhibit space-partners Registration Sponsorship Miscellaneous Total revenue

Net income (loss)

MEMBERSHIP COUNT 2003-2013

46 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

MEMBERSHIP COUNT EXCLUDING HORT MEMBERS 2003-2013

LANDSCAPE ONTARIO AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 2013 INCOME STATEMENT - EXPO 2012 Audited Statements

2013 Audited Statements

2013 Revised Budgets

2014 Revised Budgets

2015 Proposed Budgets

$546,518 7,912 11,250 0 565,680

$440,715 6,916 2,500 918 451,049

$560,000 3,500 9,500 0 573,000

$400,000 4,000 7,000 0 411,000

$400,000 4,000 7,000 0 411,000

Discounts Member discounts Total discounts Gross revenue

34,481 34,481 531,199

21,400 21,400 429,649

35,000 35,000 538,000

20,000 20,000 391,000

20,000 20,000 391,000

Expenses Exhibit hall Security Show services Registration services Printing Promotion Public relations services Advertising Photography Move in/move out Travel Parking Receptions Postage Janitorial Software Commissions-partners Miscellaneous Total expenses

100,840 11,536 65,661 10,070 16,387 6,431 5,250 28,365 2,065 32,897 17,352 2,100 7,133 9,523 8,100 8,462 10,500 4,126 346,797

97,236 10,797 49,982 10,202 9,621 7,048 6,923 15,292 1,250 26,591 17,807 2,100 7,609 7,144 8,100 6,927 0 98 284,727

98,920 10,300 65,500 12,000 15,050 20,200 5,750 30,380 1,000 37,350 13,750 2,000 7,000 7,800 8,000 8,500 0 3,250 346,750

78,000 10,300 52,000 12,000 10,000 12,000 5,750 20,000 1,000 28,000 13,750 2,000 7,000 7,000 8,000 7,000 0 2,000 275,800

78,000 10,300 52,000 12,000 10,000 12,000 5,750 20,000 1,000 28,000 13,750 2,000 7,000 7,000 8,000 7,000 0 2,000 275,800

Net income (loss)

184,402

144,921

191,250

115,200

115,200

2012 Audited Statements

2013 Audited Statements

1,082,545 (265,041) (262,462) 555,042

1,110,056 (310,840) (260,134) 539,081

Revenue Exhibit space Registration Sponsorship Miscellaneous Total revenue

TRADESHOWS - SUMMARY

Net income (loss)-tradeshow department Wage allocations Overhead allocations Net income (loss) net of allocations

HORTICULTURAL (211) 9.5%

MEMBERSHIP BREAKDOWN 2013

INTERIM (14) 0.6%

CHAPTER ASSOCIATE (82) 3.7%

ASSOCIATE (378) 17.1%

ACTIVE (1528) 69%

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 47

Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation

2013 Annual Report

MANDATE

“To ensure a healthy future for the horticultural industry”

www.ohtf.ca 48 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

2013 2012ANNUAL AnnualREPORT Report The Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation is the research and scholarship arm of Landscape Ontario. The Foundation’s mandate is to ensure a healthy future for the horticultural industry, through financial support of research and scholarship through interest generated on capital investments.

The capital in the Foundation has continued to grow despite very little organized fundraising. Most of the funds are generated through association events and activities.

(BOARD PIC)

Officers and Directors John Wright Monica van Maris Brian Cocks CLT Hank Gelderman CLT Bob Allen Tony DiGiovanni CLT Ben Kobes Mark Ostrowski John Peets Mike Thomas David Turnbull CHT Neil Vanderkruk Robert Wilton

President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Director Director Director Director Director Director Director Director Director

Supporting the Foundation

The Foundation would like to thank donors. Donations are an easy and effective way to benefit Ontario’s horticultural community, and they are tax-deductible. Donations were received this year from: M. Gregorasz Ann Jakins Joerg Leiss Joann Lovell-Kristoferson Heidi Machel N. Paramanathan J. Garfield Thompson Karen Weyermann John Wright BCH Landscaping Beaver Landscaping and Gardening Cambridge Landscaping

Cameron Landscaping Compass Creative D&R Mazza Diamond Systems Enviroscape Fiesta Gardens Forever Green Lawn & Landscaping Green Masters Landscaping Gunn-Duncan Landscaping Habitat Enviroscaping JCA Trees Natural Impressions Landscape

Outdoor Services Parkway Gardens Paysagement Trillium Rosepark Landscaping TDA Landscape Services The Investment Guild Underhill Landscape Waterloo Chapter – Landscape Ontario Wright Landscape Services Yorkshire Garden Services

A special thank you to all those who donated to the John and Ruth Wright Scholarship in memory of Ruth Wright.

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 49

How to Support the Foundation The Foundation developed a new information brochure “Support the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation” (can be found on www.ohtf.ca). With a donation to the Foundation, you have the satisfaction of knowing that you are “making a difference and leaving a legacy” for the industry that you love.

You can support the foundation by: a) Sponsorship: Join the Foundation by making a pledge – an annual donation or a one-time gift. b) Memorial Gift: This is a meaningful way to honour a friend, loved one or professional contact and help support the industry c) Legacy Gift: Earmark funds through your estate to sustain the horticulture industry.

Contact your estate planner or lawyer to include this legacy provision in your will. d) Stewardship Program: Many Foundation sponsors share their expertise by speaking to groups and direct their honorariums to the Foundation.

Legacy Room At Congress 2013, the Foundation hosted The Legacy Lounge for the pioneers of the industry and the LO members.

Approximately 20 pioneers visited the lounge to talk about old times, what is happening now in the industry and what they hope will happen in the future. It was a way to thank them for the contribution to the industry.

This year, the Foundation invited the Chapter Board and Industry Sector Group to join them, and approximately 65 members visited the lounge. The lounge was a friendly spot to sit, relax, talk with others and enjoy refreshments.

The Foundation would like to thank the following companies who sponsored the Legacy lounge.

Scholarship Program Providing scholarships is particularly close to the hearts of Foundation supporters, who point with pride to the many recipients who are now successful industry members. A list of the scholarships can be found on the web site: www.ohtf.ca. A new Horticultural Scholarship Opportunities brochure was developed this year listing all the scholarships available. This brochure was distributed to all post secondary and secondary schools. This year, we distributed $25,200 in scholarships to students enrolled in horticultural programs across the province.

Congratulations to the 2013 recipients High School Scholarship ($1,000) Patricia Goode, Algonquin College Paul Lavallee, Niagara College Aaron Mills, University of Guelph Arjan Roelofsen, Fanshawe College

Horst Dickert memorial Scholarship ($1,000) Brianne Hastie, St. Clair College

Apprenticeship Scholarship ($600) Hyun Young (May) Hong, Humber College Jody James, Humber College

Post-Secondary Scholarship ($1,000) Stacey Almas, Seneca College Tess Benoit, Seneca College Kyle Berwick, Niagara Parks School of Horticulture Peter Coady, Niagara College Jessica Denbok, Fanshawe College Bryan Fantetti, St. Clair College

Jond and Ruth Wright Scholarship ($2,000) Robert Kerr, University of Guelph

50 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

Tony DiGiovanni Scholarship ($1,000) Nathaniel Grant, Fanshawe College

Daeun Lee, Fanshawe College Amy Purvis, Fanshawe College Angelica Rigas-DeAlmeida, Ridgetown College Jessica Rowland, Fanshawe College Hilary Sivyer, Fanshawe College Vigneswari Sridharan, Seneca College Guang Can Su, Ridgetown College Andrea Sudak, Seneca College Alexander Taylor, University of Guelph Jaimi Uram, Fanshawe College

2013 2012ANNUAL AnnualREPORT Report Research Programs

The Foundation has contributed to numerous research programs. In 2012 – 2013 fiscal year, contributing a total of $272,656.05 to the following projects: • Vineland Research ($17,026.05) – Functional biopesticides for the lawn care industry • University of Waterloo ($68,900) – Optimum deicing and anti-icing for parking lots and sidewalks • University of Guelph ($11.725) – Irrigation Water management on Ontario nursery farms • Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation ($5,000) – Integrated turfgrass management project.

• Veterans Memorial Parkway Project ($68,555) – Tree planting and commemorative signs along highway in London • Green Roofs for Healthy Cities ($58,000) – Community green infrastructure planning and evaluation project • Vineland Research ($40,000) – funding of new research chair position to assist industry • Skills Canada ($3,450) – Ontario Skills Canada competition – horticultural sector

OHTF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

FUND BALANCES Year End Year End Aug. 31, 2013 Aug. 31, 2012 General Fund

($39,326)

$2,895

Dunington-Grubb/ Sheridan Nurseries Research Fund

$251,893

$246,360

Growers’ Group Research Fund

$365,595

$354,045

Ottawa Chapter Val Kirshner Scholarship Fund

$60,566

$58,420

Scholarship Fund

$83,741

$95,706

Casey van Maris Scholarship Fund

$27,250

$24,320

IPM Symposium Research Fund

$196,385

$194,341

Turf Research Fund

$20,649

($15,407)

Tony DiGiovanni Scholarship Fund

$94,951

$92,570

John/Ruth Wright Scholarship Fund

$33,799

$24,120

Horst Dickert Scholarship Fund

$4,401

$5,228

J T Somerville Fund

$10,184

$0

Waterloo Chapter Scholarship Fund

$62,035

$53,060

$1,172,122

$1,135,658

Totals

ASSETS Current Bank Accounts Receivable

Year End Aug. 31, 2013

Year End Aug. 31, 2012

$64,369 $854

$34,855 $744

Long Term Investments Investment-Vineland Consortium Investment-Steeles Ave Property Accrued Interest Receivable

$65,223

$35,599

$1,050,160 $57,711 $581 $38,472

$1,028,084 $57,711 $581 $18,284

$1,146,924

$1,104,661

Total Assets

$1,212,147

$1,140,260

LIABILITIES Current Accounts Payable & Accrued Charges

$40,025

$4,601

Accumulated Fund Balances Fund Balances

$1,172,122

$1,135,658

Total Liabilities/Funds

$1,212,147

$1,140,260

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS & FUND BALANCES Year End Year End August 31, 2013 August 31, 2012

REVENUES Interest/Gains(Losses) Miscellaneous Research Grants Donations Total Revenue EXPENSES Administration Fees Audit Fees Bank Charges & Interest Legal Fees Supplies/Misc Directors Liability Insurance Disbursed As Research Grants/ Sponsorships Disbursed As Scholarships

Total Expenses Excess Of Revenue Over Expenses Fund Balances, Beginning Of Year Fund Balances,Year End

$42,263 $293 $260,676 $41,783

$53,970 $315 $190,782 $25,993

$345,016

$271,060

$1,695 $2,938 $138 $0 $4,260 $665

$1,598 $2,613 $125 $0 $5,076 $1,024

$272,656 $26,200

$167,032 $32,000

$308,552 $36,464 $1,135,658 $1,172,122

$209,468 $61,592 $1,074,066 $1,135,658

2013 ANNUAL REPORT 51

NEW MEMBERS DURHAM Regional Property Services Brian Wright 18 - 1621 McEwen Dr., Whitby, ON L1N 9A5 Tel: 905-261-8474 Membership Type: Active Spruceview Services Inc Wayne Carroll 14578 Warden Ave., Stouffville, ON L4A 7X5 Tel: 416-678-7992 Membership Type: Active

GEORGIAN LAKELANDS Allturf Ltd Paula Sheppard 1964 Commerce Park Dr., Innisfil, ON L9S 4A3 Tel: 705-431-0561 Membership Type: Associate Axess Nathan Bellamy 1 - 126 Brook St., PO Box 24, Clarksburg, ON N0H 1J0 Tel: 705-446-6188 Membership Type: Interim

MPH Hardscapes Matt Hart 532 Jeffrey Brook Dr., London, ON N5X 2S6 Tel: 519-933-2674 Membership Type: Interim

OTTAWA

January 21

Ottawa Valley Tree Experts Ed Scott PO Box 369, Carp, ON K0A 1L0 Tel: 613-831-2493 Membership Type: Active Pride Landscaping and Maintenance Rene Njie 42 Townsend Dr., Nepean, ON K2J 2V4 Tel: 613-825-6639 Membership Type: Active

TORONTO

Service One Douglas Plummer 7343 Poplar Sideroad, Collingwood, ON L9Y 3Z1 Tel: 705-445-9799 Membership Type: Active

Contemporary Design & Landscape Cam Fraser 1438 Wallace Rd., Oakville, ON L6L 2Y2 Tel: 905-847-5181 Membership Type: Active

Sky High Roofing & Sheet Metal Inc Robert Cloutier 31 Saunders Rd., Barrie, ON L4N 9A7 Tel: 705-728-8888 Membership Type: Associate

Global Landscaping Inc Jerry Grella 108 - 19 Yonge St., Richmond Hill, ON L4E 0K2 Tel: 855-545-0029 Membership Type: Active

True North Automotive & Equipment Consultants Gren Callan 78 Empire Dr., Barrie, ON L4M 0A9 Tel: 705-220-1788 Membership Type: Associate

James T Brown Excavating and Contractor Ltd Steven Brown 16461 The Gore Rd., Caledon, ON L7E 0X4 Tel: 905-880-1354 Membership Type: Chapter Associate

GOLDEN HORSESHOE

Priestly Demolition Inc Andrew Smith 3200 Lloydtown-Aurora Rd., King, ON L7B 0G3 Tel: 905-841-3735 Membership Type: Associate

Tyler Graham 91 Bunting Rd., St. Catharines, ON L2P 3G5 Membership Type: Horticultural Total Land Care Services Chris Newhouse 12 - 111 Fourth Ave, Suite 350, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3P5 Tel: 289-241-5240 Membership Type: Active

LONDON

Congress 2014

P.B. Welding Service Rene Burggraaf 773721 Oxford Rd. 14, Burgessville, ON N0J 1C0 Tel: 519-424-3112 Membership Type: Active

Beautiful Trees Inc Christopher Ward 25 William Ave., Gormley, ON L0H 1G0 Tel: 416-738-4137 Membership Type: Active

Lay of the Land Brad Coultes 20 Basin Cres., Hamilton, ON L8J 4W8 Tel: 289-808-4879 Membership Type: Active

January 7 - 9

Toronto Congress Centre, 650 Dixon Rd., Toronto Landscape Ontario’s Congress is Canada’s largest green industry event for landscape professionals: architects, contractors, designers, and allied trades. More information can be found at www.locongress.com.

Delwood Landscapes Rick Earl 2360 Concession Rd 5, Loretto, ON L0G 1L0 Tel: 647-888-0180 Membership Type: Active

Hockley Landscape Services Inc (formerly Hockley’s Landscaping & Tree Service) Dave Hockley 101 Concession 13 E, RR 4, Simcoe, ON N3Y 4K3 Tel: 519-426-1200 Membership Type: Active

EVENTS

Ryman Landscaping Inc Lance Ryman 2384 Station B, Richmond Hill, ON L4E 1A5 Tel: 905-713-4178 Membership Type: Active UrbanScapes Richard Goring 1281 Weston Rd., Toronto, ON M6M 4R2 Tel: 416-627-4180 Membership Type: Active

WATERLOO Beds & Borders Inc Kim Ball 47 Menno St., Breslau, ON N0B 1M0 Tel: 519-573-7013 Membership Type: Active

D & J Paton Bros Ltd John Paton 21463 Clarke Rd., London, ON N0M 1C0 Tel: 519-266-6943 Membership Type: Chapter Associate

52 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2013

Upper Canada Chapter meeting

Selby Community Hall, Napanee Join the Upper Canada Chapter for the annual round-table meeting, featuring topics to stimulate honest and open discussion on many aspects of our industry. This has proven to be one of the most popular meeting topics in the Chapter. The meeting will also include light refreshments. For more information contact Landscape Ontario at 1-800-265-5656.

February 5

Growers Short Course

Burlington Convention Centre, 1120 Burloak Dr., Burlington Last year, nearly 200 nursery growers packed the Royal Canadian Legion in Guelph for Landscape Ontario Growers Sector Group Short Course. This year the event moves to Burlington Convention Centre. It’s a great opportunity to hear about the latest research and best practices in the industry. Keep management and staff informed on the latest developments in the growing industry. For more information contact Landscape Ontario at 1-800-265-5656.

February 5

Waterloo Chapter Meeting

Waterloo Knights of Columbus, Waterloo Waterloo Chapter presents Rob Kennaley of McLauchlin and Associates. Come out and enjoy a wonderful lunch spread, and listen and learn from our experienced presenter, who specializes in construction law and is highly respected by the landscape horticulture industry.

February 11

Upper Canada Chapter meeting

Selby Community Hall, Napanee This meeting will feature a round-table discussion that will introduce topics to stimulate honest and open discussion on production rates and overhead recovery. Bring your production rates and let’s see how long it should really take to prepare the base for a patio. The meeting will also include light refreshments. For more information contact Landscape Ontario at 1-800-265-5656.

The Evolution of Garden Style:

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Diarmuid Gavin Diarmuid Gavin Designs, Wicklow, Ireland

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Highs Are Good; Lows Are Bad But We Are All Under Pressure!

Anwar Knight CTV News, Toronto, Ont.

de a c re tr l ra he ng u t o lt u Set your professional goals. tic nd t C r ho te a Register now at

T E G t A

www.locongress.com

green industry conference

Register today at LOcongress.com MONDAY, JANUARY 6 Pre-Trade Show Events on Warm-Up Monday EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT SHORT COURSE 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Held at International Plaza Hotel, New York Room (Ticketed Event) IPM SYMPOSIUM 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Cohen Ballroom, Toronto Congress Centre ONLY LOCATION FOR THIS EVENT IN 2014 (Ticketed Event) LANDSCAPE DESIGNER CONFERENCE 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Held at International Plaza Hotel, International Ballroom (Ticketed Event) GPGB’S LIVING WALLS AND GREEN ROOFS, TRAIN THE TRAINER WORKSHOP 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Held at International Plaza Hotel, York Room (Ticketed Event)

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7 Registration opens TRADE SHOW OPEN

7:30 a.m.

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

OPENING KEYNOTE DRUM CAFÉ

9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

MORNING SESSIONS 10:45 to 11:45 a.m.

- GROWING TREES IN THE URBAN JUNGLE - PLANTS ARE NOT OPTIONAL! - THE INFLUENCERS LIFE LESSONS AT LUNCH 12 noon to 1:15 p.m.

SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPING: THE FUTURE IS NOW! OWNERS ONLY WORKSHOP 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. new TAKING YOUR LITTLE BUSINESS AND MAKING IT BIG: WHEN TO GROW, AND HOW AFTERNOON SESSIONS 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

- HOW DO YOU GET ON THE FIRST PAGE OF GOOGLE? - CULTURE VS. PROFIT; CAN CULTURE BE A PROFIT CENTRE? AFTERNOON SESSIONS 2:45 to 3:45 p.m.

- REINVENTION MADE EASY: CHANGE YOUR STRATEGY! - TRANSITIONING TO ORGANICS

TUESDAY SPECIAL EVENTS LANDSCAPE ONTARIO LEGACY CELEBRATION 11:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Sutherland Room, Toronto Congress Centre AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE 4:45 to 7:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m. President’s Reception 5:15 p.m. Awards Ceremony Plaza Ballroom, International Plaza Hotel (Ticketed Event) Sponsored by:

PerMaconPro.ca

54 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2013

Congress has gone mobile

• Schedule • Speaker Information • Social Media Links • Exhibitor List Everything you need to stay on track at the show!

TORONTO CONGRESS CENTRE 650 Dixon Road, Toronto, Ontario Full Conference Pass $295. members, $370 non-members One-day Conference pass $165 members, $205 non-members

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8

THURSDAY, JANUARY 9

Registration opens TRADE SHOW OPEN

Registration opens TRADE SHOW OPEN

7:30 a.m.

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

OPENING KEYNOTE 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

THE EVOLUTION OF GARDEN STYLE MORNING SESSIONS 10:45 to 11:45 a.m.

- RIGHT PLANT, RIGHT PLACE - FROM PURPOSE TO PROFIT - CHANGE YOUR OUTCOMES! A ROUNDTABLE WORKSHOP LIFE LESSONS AT LUNCH 12 noon to 1:15 p.m.

PROTECT YOURSELF – GET THE FACTS! OWNERS ONLY WORKSHOP GET THE RIGHT RESULTS WITH THE RIGHT TRAINING

1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

AFTERNOON SESSIONS 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

- THE EXPLODING CONDOMINIUM MARKET IN ONTARIO: ARE YOU READY TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? - ESSENTIAL SOCIAL MARKETING PRACTICES FOR EVERY SMALL BUSINESS AFTERNOON SESSIONS 2:45 to 3:45 p.m.

- GENIUS OF THE GENERA: REVEALING THE UNIQUE ATTRIBUTES OF COMMON TREE GENERA - IT’S NOT THE SIZE OF THE JOB, ITS HOW YOU SWING IT! A 12-STEP PROGRAM FOR LEAN + MEAN JOBSITES

WEDNESDAY SPECIAL EVENTS LANDSCAPE ONTARIO AGM 7:30 to 9:00 a.m.

International Ballroom, International Plaza Hotel THE FEMININE FACTOR IN HORTICULTURE 4:00 to 5:15 p.m.

International Ballroom, International Plaza Hotel (Ticketed Event) TAILGATE THANK YOU EVENT 5:00 to 11:30 p.m.

Plaza Ballroom, International Plaza Hotel (Open to all trade show badge holders)

7:30 a.m.

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

OPENING KEYNOTE 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

HIGHS ARE GOOD; LOWS ARE BAD BUT WE ARE ALL UNDER PRESSURE MORNING SESSIONS 10:45 to 11:45 a.m.

- THE WEALTHY CLIENT: HOW TO LAND BIG FISH AND HOW TO DEAL WITH THEM ONCE THE HOOK IS IN - QUALITY COUNTS - IT COUNTS MORE THAN EVER! - THE CHANGING LANDSCAPE OF MAINTENANCE LIFE LESSONS AT LUNCH 12 noon to 1:15 p.m.

THE LIGHTER SIDE OF LANDSCAPE OWNERS ONLY WORKSHOP 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

HOW TO BE EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE: THE ART OF MANAGING A GROWING COMPANY AFTERNOON SESSIONS 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

- EXTERIOR HOME STAGING FOR REAL ESTATE – COOL! - COMMUNICATION, INTERPRETATION...

COMPLICATION! AFTERNOON SESSIONS 2:45 to 3:45 p.m.

- USING SOCIAL MEDIA TO BETTER UNDERSTAND AND SERVE YOUR CUSTOMERS - HOW TO TURN MORE OF YOUR WEBSITE VISITORS INTO CUSTOMERS

THURSDAY SPECIAL EVENTS IRRIGATION CONFERENCE 9:00 to 11:45 a.m.

Sutherland Room (Ticketed Event)

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 55

RESEARCH Managing verticillium wilt of maples using organic amendments Verticillium dahliae is one of the most unusual plant pathogens in the world.

Most plant pathogens can infect only a few species of plants, but Verticillium dahliae can infect over 400 plant species, including herbaceous annuals such as cotton, eggplant and potato, and perennials such as mint, and woody species such as maple and olive.

Verticillium wilt symptoms of maple include wilting and chlorosis of leaves, die-back of one or more branches, usually from the top, stunting of trees, and eventually, but not always, death.

The fungus produces long-lasting resting structures called microsclerotia (MS). These can persist in soil for over a decade. Reducing the populations of MS in soils is the primary means of disease control and has been achieved using fumigation with chemicals such as chloropicrin and Vapam, in the form of steam or solarization. More recently, organic amendments such as Brassica meals and poultry manures (Goicoechea, 2009)

have been used.

The objective of the research by A and L Biologicals was to implement biorational disease management methods to suppress infection by Verticillium and other soilborne fungal pathogens in maple varieties sold in Ontario. Results have shown that incorporation of organic soil amendments such as molasses, poultry manure, meat and bone meal, and mustard meal can significantly enhance plant vigour and growth of maple seedlings.

The researchers established plots in the spring of 2010 where they treated soils with pelletized poultry manure, meat and bone meal, fish emulsion, molasses, and an untreated control. The plots were set out as four replicates in a randomized block design. Half of each plot was covered with a clear plastic sheet to heat the soils using solar radiation (solarization).

Two ft. tall bare root maple seedlings were planted after four weeks, with each plot having ten seedlings per half

Autumn Blaze and sugar maples were used in the verticillium trials.

56 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2013

plot (uncovered vs. plastic). Twice during each summer measurements were collected over three years that included tree height, trunk diameter, and vigour.

No significant differences were found between trees in solarized and nonsolarized plots. The best performing plants were found in soil treated with molasses where a 30 per cent increase in growth was observed as compared to trees in untreated control plots.

Tree growth was also increased in soils treated with poultry manure and meat and bone meal, but plants growing in soil treated with fish emulsion did not perform as well than those in untreated plots. The growth response in the molasses, poultry manure, and meat and bone meal treated sites were statistically significant and plants were 26-44 per cent taller than those in untreated plots. They also showed a significant increase in girth of 11-40 per cent, and improved overall vigour based on visual appearance.

In the fall of 2010 a site with a previous history of verticillium wilt of maple, received a fall treatment of mustard meal (known to control apple replant disease) and poultry manure, a material that is readily available to growers. A fall application was chosen as it was more suited to growers’ practices, allowing them to plant trees early in the spring. It was expected that any damage done to the resting structures of the Verticillium would be exacerbated by winter damage.

Half the site was treated and the other half was used to plant seedlings treated with biological agents that may antagonize Verticillium. Treatments included untreated control, poultry manure at 0.5 per cent v/v, and Brassica seed meal at 1.5 and 3 tons/A. There were four replicates of four treatments arranged in a randomized design. After application, bags of Verticillium microsclerotia were buried into the soil to determine the efficacy of the amendments for killing MS. Of the inoculum recovered in the spring, the total numbers of viable MS were poultry manure 35, full mustard 6, half mustard 25 and control 55.

This indicated a significant reduction in inoculum using the

mustard amendment.

Two rows of seven to eight plants per plot of sugar maple and Autumn Blaze maples were planted into plots in the spring. Both trees were planted in the untreated field, but their roots were dipped into a mixture of Pseudomonas bacteria (strains P25, P119, P153), proven antagonists of many soilborne plant pathogens, a Lysobacter species that was found to strongly antagonize the growth of Verticillium on agar (strain 158), a commercial biological control agent (Trichoderma), or just the carrier solution as a control.

Plant heights and vigour were measured as previously. Plants treated with Pseudomonas were the most vigourous whereas, while those treated with Lysobacter were the least vigourous. The mustard seed treatment provided the best growth with Autumn Blaze and again, Pseudomonas the best vigour. Plants growing in soils with the full mustard were 33 per cent taller than in the untreated plots. The tallest sugar maples were found in the poultry manure treated plots, but this was not statistically significant.

Autumn Blaze maples grew significantly better in mustard treated soil although the results were similar to all the organic treatments. The Autumn Blaze trees growing in soil treated with half mustard were about 26 per cent taller than those in untreated plots.

Part of this growth effect may be due to increased fertility as there were no visible disease symptoms of Verticillium in any of the plots at either site. The strains of Verticillium that had caused wilt of maple previously in these soils did not

appear to be highly virulent to the maple species we planted.

A promising technology for control of verticillium wilt has been described by Goud et al. (2004) and has been termed biological soil disinfestation (BSD). BSD involves incorporating large volumes of organic amendments to soil, wetting the soils to saturation, and then covering them with plastic to create anaerobic conditions. Maples planted in BSD soil treatments showed 85 per cent reductions of soil inoculum levels of V. dahliae relative to the control. The numbers did not increase over four years. Nematode populations, which can exacerbate wilt disease, were also reduced by 95 to 99 per cent. The incidence of infection by V. dahliae of trees was reduced by 80 to 90 per cent in all four years at one location and for the first two years at the other. Most important, the market value of the crop in BSD plots was higher for maple than in the untreated control.

These authors suggest that BSD can be an effective, economically profitable, and environmentally friendly control method for tree nurseries (Goud et al. 2004).

In order to identify if the disease was coming in with seedlings, we examined over 450 maple whips produced by growers in Canada and U.S. All were found to be free of Verticillium infections using isolations methods on semi-selective agar media. Surface sterilized sections of roots from such trees, however, were extensively colonized by numerous fungal species, which unidentifiable as to the species level. The research team developed a quantitative molecular method for detection of Verticillium

and these tests showed the plants free of Verticillium infection.

Application of organic amendments to soils in the fall provides a simple technology for growers to control crop losses related to soilborne plant disease and to do it in an environmentally safe manner.

The benefits of applying such amendments can also be seen in the form of increased productivity such that the growth cycle may be reduced by potentially one year. To this point, test results using root dips of biological control agents such as Trichoderma and Pseudomonas spp. have not yet show any increase in tree growth. However, treatments with Pseudomonas strains, a family of bacteria known to create disease suppressive soil conditions, consistently produced the most vigourous plants by visual appearance. This suggests that they may be increasing overall root health and perhaps it is expected that we will see increased tree quality in subsequent years of growth with this treatment.

The researchers acknowledge the help of A&L Biologicals’ staff and the co-op students from the University of Western Ontario. John Mantel OF Connon Nurseries/AVK Holdings provided invaluable guidance during the project and all his efforts toward getting this work done. The research team is grateful to Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association and to AAFC through the Canadian Agricultural Adaptation Program (CAAP) for funding this work. — Dr. George Lazarovits, A and L Biologicals, Agroecology Research Services Centre

NEW EVENT!

The Feminine Factor in Horticulture Inaugural Networking Event for Women in Horticulture 4:00 to 5:15 p.m. (Pre-Tailgate Party)

Inspiring, Evolving, Empowering Join your peers for the thought-provoking keynote presentation by Beth Edney, CLD.

Held at the International Plaza Hotel, International Ballroom. Ticketed event.

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 57

EXECUTIVE DESK Leadership Tony DiGiovanni CHT LO executive director

I

can’t believe the year went by so fast, and 2014 is nearly here. Landscape Ontario will be 41 years old in 2014. In my 25 years working with this great industry and our wonderful members, I (and your staff) have been inspired by hundreds of individuals who served on the many boards, committees, chapters and sector groups.

Although unique, they share many of the same attributes. We have been blessed with a long list of contribution-oriented members who care and are constantly working to elevate, advance and grow the landscape/horticulture industry and the people in it.

In January, Past President Tom Intven

will step off the board, after decades of service. Tom brought a great deal of wisdom, passion and fun to the board. He represented the industry in an exemplary manner. I and many others will personally miss him on the board. However, I am sure Tom will continue to contribute to the growth of the industry in some other capacity.

Another excellent leader and representative is also moving on after a lifetime of contribution. President Phil Charal will join the exclusive club of Past Presidents at the AGM in January. He will serve another two years on the board, acting as a wise counsel to the executive and the new president.

Phil reflects integrity and leadership. He has done an excellent job at guiding Landscape Ontario the last two years.

I would also like to welcome Dave Braun as the new president of Landscape Ontario. Dave represents a new generation. At a recent Toronto Chapter meeting, I was speaking with two long-time members of Landscape Ontario. Both had

worked for Braun Nurseries before Dave was born. I look forward to working with Dave, as he puts his signature on the president’s position.

In the Annual Report, you will find highlights of the many activities, achievements and a few disappointments of 2013. I will use this column for some general musings about the future.

To continue to remain relevant to its members, Landscape Ontario must consciously ensure that every action, product, event and activity must be focused on providing benefit and stimulating growth. We must listen and observe. We must define clearly what our members require for success. We must take action that will bring the most benefit to the greatest number of people. Our vision is to grow a prosperous, professional, ethical, recognized and valued industry that enhances the lives of our stakeholders (customers, employees, suppliers, public and future generations).

Our means for achieving our vision is to engage and develop leaders who are willing to work collectively within a spirit of mutual benefit and improvement to realize the vision.

We also need to better understand the expectations of the different generations.

Within our membership, we have boomers (born between 1946 and 1964), Generation X (born between 1965 and 1979) and Millennials (born after 1980). These generations are very different in their approach to business. What does this mean to our offerings? How do we maximize relevancy? I think it’s great that our next President is a Millennial. It speaks well of our future.

However, it is important to realize that many values remain the same through generations. As individuals, we all desire financial growth, social interaction (sense of belonging, community), learning/education/professional development (technical as well as business) and legacy — the need to make a positive difference.

As we consciously focus all of our activities on these four interrelated benefits, we will continue to grow in relevancy and prosperity. The road to relevance and prosperity is engagement and leadership. It follows that the more we engage members and focus on their development as leaders, the more relevant we become.

On behalf of the staff of Landscape Ontario, we wish you a wonderful holiday season and a healthy and prosperous 2014.

Tony DiGiovanni may be contacted at tony@landscapeontario.com, or at 1-800-265-5656, ext. 304.

The two sides of Tom.

The two sides of Phil.

58 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2013

PUBLIC RELATIONS ‘Tis the season for sharing

By Denis Flanagan CLD Director of public relations and membership services

E

very month, on behalf of our members, we send out a consumer press release with a link back to the LO website.

In the hit and miss world of media, we are never quite sure what response or pick up we will get. Often it’s a few of the right buzz words that does the trick, combined with the marketing efforts of Enterprise our PR agency, or to be honest just the fact that it’s a slow week for the press.

Whatever the reason, our December release got some great attention. We received calls for articles and interviews with the following media outlets: Hamilton

Spectator, The Toronto Star, CBC 740, 94.1 FM, 107.7 FM, 1580 AM, K-Rock 105.7, At Home and The Real Estate Show on The Corus Network.

Hopefully, these contacts helped to continue to promote the LO Green for Life brand and bring traffic to our website and in turn business for our members.

As a member benefit, you can utilize the press releases for your own company.

Copy any of the releases we send out and customize them for your own use. Send them to your local media, or use them on your website and client newsletters. Please contact us if we can help you with this.

Here are some of the tips that garnered this month’s attention. Happy reading, and Happy Holidays.

Selecting the right tree for the holidays

T is for Try something different. It used to be that we only had spruce and pine to choose from, now there are over a dozen varieties including fir and balsam. Also,

consider the trend towards buying a potted live tree and planting it in your landscape after the holidays.

R is for Real versus lifelike. This is always a personal choice. But, remember you are not killing a tree when you use a real tree. The tree is another farm crop that is harvested. Tree farms are wonderful for the environment and are constantly being replanted.

E is for 11 days (or there about), which is the minimum time you can expect to keep a cut tree in the house by following simple steps. Buy from a reliable source, buy a good stand with a large water reservoir, make a fresh cut at the base of the trunk, keep a constant supply of water, and mix a liquid tree preservative with the water.

E is also for Evergreen for the birds.

After the holidays, place the cut tree in the garden (support it by bracing it to a fence or deck). This will make a wonderful haven for birds during the winter. You can complete the scene with bird feeder and spotlight.

S is for Style. Try and choose a colour theme for tree decorations that match your existing interior style. Many garden centres will have vignettes displayed to help you make the right choice.

Denis Flanagan may be contacted at dflanagan@landscapeontario.com.

No matter the season, the press contacts Landscape Ontario to answer questions about gardening.

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 59

MEMBERSHIP A time for family, friends and reflection

By Rachel Cerelli Membership and Chapter Coordinator

A

AND

s the year 2013 comes to an end and we wonder where the year has gone, we typically spend a lot of welldeserved time with family and friends. It’s also a time many of us reflect on the year past.

This year seems to have gone by faster than previous years, and again our businesses have reaped the benefit of a fantastic growing season. Ok, so maybe we were a little washed-out a few days last spring, and projects were held up. However, for the most part, the general comment among members is that we had a great year.

So now, we can sit back, reflect on the 2013 working season and wonder, what can I do differently next year, and what should I definitely do the same next year?

What better place to do this reflecting than with your colleagues at local chapter meetings, at Congress 2014 and at special events (Ski and Spa Day 2014) run by your local chapter committee? After all, the people attending these events are trying to do the same thing you are —stay relevant, stay ahead, be successful.

One of the things I know many of you will do is look at your marketing pieces, including print material, websites, electronic advertising, etc. With all the methods of marketing, are you using your trusted landscape association to its fullest?

Have you updated your online profile?

Did you know that the landscapeontario. com website has 50,000 hits per month?

This website is a fantastic method for con-

Ceremony President’s Reception

JANUARY 6, 2014

new

4:45 p.m.

PRESIDENT’S RECEPTION 5:15 p.m.

AWARDS CEREMONY

Plaza Ballroom, International Plaza Hotel Ticketed Event, $65 includes President’s Reception

JoinSPONSORED the President of Landscape BY: Ontario at the Wine and Cheese Reception, preceding the ceremony.

For more information

TORONTO CONGRESS CENTRE

Join delegates from government, education and industry as they investigate the challenges of pest control, from plant health management to new bioherbicides.

FEATURED SPEAKERS: Scott Olan, B.Sc. Ministry of Environment

Jim Chatfield, M.S.

Ohio State University

AGRIUM ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES, GC DUKE EQUIPMENT, KOPPERT CANADA, PLANT PRODUCTS, TURF REVOLUTION

MONDAY JANUARY 6, 2014 International Plaza Hotel

Join your peers and investigate the changes in the role of landscape designers and their creation of unique and beautiful gardens.

FEATURED SPEAKERS include: Ron Koudys, BLA, MEd., OALA, CSLA, ASLA, RLI (MI), CLD Ron Koudys Landscape Architects Christene LeVatte, CLP, Highland Landscapes For Lifestyle Ron McCarthy, BLA The McCarthy Group

Rob Kennaley

McLaughlin and Associates

Diarmuid Gavin

Pam Charbonneau

NETWORKING RECEPTION Enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres with your peers following the conference.

OMAF

AN INITIATIVE OF

Landscape Designer Conference

David C. Smith, P.Ag. C.G.C.S.

DCS Agronomic Services

www.loawards.com

sumers to learn about how to hire a contractor, or why hire a Landscape Ontario member. The list goes on.

When consumers finally understand what type of company to hire and have their checklist in front of them, do YOU stand out? Is it easy to find information about your company? If not, I strongly urge you to read Robert Ellidge’s column from the August 2012, Landscape Ontario magazine (page 10) and learn how to Market Your Company Online with Landscape Ontario. To find a copy of this magazine go to www.horttrades.com/horticulture-review-20.

To keep in the loop of what is going on in the industry be sure to watch for the Wednesday weekly e-news, or visit horttrades.com for updates, follow Landscape Ontario on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Now is the month for family and friends.

Go spend some time with your loved ones that stand by your side through all those hard working and long hour seasons. You and your family deserve this time together.

Congratulations on another successful and prosperous year, and all the best for many years to come.

Call at 1-800-265-5656, ext. 354, or contact Rachel Cerelli at rachel@landscapeontario.com for your thoughts and feedback.

Dr. Karen L. Bailey, Ph.D., B.Sc., M.Sc.

Diarmuid Gavin Designs

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Dr. Michael Brownbridge, Ph. D., B.Sc.

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre

Peter Van Stralen, CFE PRESENTING SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Sunshine Brands

Attendees will earn six CECs from the IPM Council of Canada.

PerMaconPro.ca

REGISTER AT

www.locongress.com 60 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2013

REGISTER AT:

locongress.com

SAFETY AND TRAINING Safety and development of HR best practices

By Sally Harvey CLT, CLP Manager Education and Labour Development

A

s we enter into winter, some of us have time to reflect on our business and spend time developing new strategies for 2014.

Progressive employers will include safety compliance development and maintenance strategies to ensure their business is up-todate with a prevention framework in place.

One that supports all staff and that can support a successful spontaneous spot check or planned safety inspection, if you are one of the chosen firms in 2014.

I encounter many members of our industry who want to provide the best for their staff in the way of pay, benefits, time off, etc. This is wonderful. We need to broaden our thinking to include safety compliance and prevention to protect our valuable staff who enable us to profit in our businesses. It is time that every Landscape Ontario member and industry member develop fully compliant safety programs. I am not going to argue that it is a great deal of work if you have little in place already.

If you need support, I urge you to join the LO Safety Group that meets six times a year at home office in Milton. For more information and to register for the 2014 Safety Group, go to www.horttrades.com/ safetygroups.

I know there is a need out there, as I spend a great deal of my time supporting members in developing safety prevention tools and resources to improve their businesses. Unfortunately, I help more members after a major incident or accident, instead of before one. My goal is that all of our members have the advantage of knowing what is required of them and how to implement requirements to ensure a safe and successful business.I can tell you that years ago it was amazing to hear our staff reveal to us at my company that they chose

to stay with us because “we cared about them and their safety.” Our safety program supports our recruitment and retention package, which has been a huge benefit to our business. We have differentiated ourselves, not only when it comes to products and services, but from a safety and staff quality perspective.

Celebrate leaders

I celebrate and support two Chapter leaders who are also passionate about safety and its impact on a successful business.

London Chapter leader Peter Vanderley is surveying London Chapter members to gain feedback on whether there is enough interest to start a Safety Group program in Southwestern Ontario. The survey is available at www.horttrades.com/ london-2013-safety-survey.

Ottawa Chapter member Marc Arnold from Rockcliffe Landscaping is also trying to gain support from Eastern Ontario firms to develop a voluntary safety group in Eastern Ontario. He has started a discussion on Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association LinkedIn site.

The year 2014 brings about some compliance requirements of employers in Ontario. Beginning July 1, 2014, employers will be required to ensure workers and supervisors across the province complete basic health and safety awareness training requirements, under a new regulation of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Employers are now required to maintain a record of training, and provide workers and supervisors with proof of completion, on request, for up to six months after the worker or supervisor stops performing work for that employer.

The regulation also contains exemptions for workers and supervisors who have previously completed training programs that cover the content set out in the new regulation. To view the new regulation, please visit e-Laws at www.horttrades.com/ ontario-regulation-29713.

To help stakeholders comply with the new requirements, The Ministry of Labour has developed awareness training programs and materials for both workers and supervisors. These are free, available

online and in many languages.

There is an employer guide on how to train and comply, including content. In addition, there are worker and supervisor guides. You can download the resources or order full-colour printed books. There are also e-learning options now available. If you follow the four-step worker awareness training and the five-step supervisor training, you will find it simple to comply with the new legislation.

A reminder, too, that you need to have the 2013 new Health and Safety at Work Prevention Starts Here poster in your workplace. To learn more about the program, go to the MOL website at www.labour.gov.on.ca.

Doing business under Bill 119?

Potentially huge fines are coming into effect January 1, 2014. Under the new legislation, Bill 119, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Amendment Act 2008 independent operators, sole proprietors, partners and executive officers are now deemed workers. WSIB has implemented Policy 12-0106 under the Operational Policy, Employer Coverage. Find out what you need to do to prevent being impacted. For more information, or to get registered, go to: www.needwsibcoverage.ca/.

The 2014 Professional Development Seminar Guide was mailed to you in your October Issue of the Landscape Ontario magazine and is available on line at www. horttrades.com/seminars/.

HR Toolkit

I would be remiss if I did not remind you that the HR Toolkit is available to you at no cost. It was developed by our Preferred Coach and Consultant Vicky Smith of Contact Coaching. It is under revision again this year and will be updated for Congress 2014. To download go to www.horttrades. com/HRtoolkit.

As 2013 comes to a much too fast close, I reflect on the last 12 months and the amount of change that we have experienced in the landscape horticulture business world. I am proud to witness the success of so many of our members and our agility to adapt and embrace change and get on with doing what we love doing: enhancing lives.

“It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.” Charles Darwin All the best to you and yours this holiday season.

I welcome your comments.

Contact Sally Harvey at sharvey@landscapeontario.com.

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 61

PROSPERITY PARTNERS Ho, Ho, Ho! It’s professional development season

By Jacki Hart CLP Prosperity Partners program manager

W

hat’s your business getting from you for this holiday season? Most businesses treat their employees to something special at this time of year.

The ideas vary widely from business to business: A bonus, a team restaurant meal or evening, a fun event or venue, maybe selected gift cards.

And, maybe in these tough times, it’s a sincere thank you and heartfelt warm wishes for the season.

Perhaps it’s worthwhile considering what treat you’ll purchase for your busi-

ness, and also the engine that drives your prosperity. It’s a great time of year to consider giving the gift of professional development to your company.

With Congress just around the corner — yes it does sneak up VERY quickly right after New Year’s — it’s a great time to go to www.locongress.com and register. Create your plan for how to get the most from this important four-day industry gathering.

Warm-up Monday continues to fill up with stronger, better programs every year.

There are lots of receptions, gatherings, networking opportunities before the Congress Conference and Trade Show even open. Sourcing new suppliers, equipment, materials and building relationships with existing suppliers face to face is a great opportunity you should plan for this year.

Following Congress, the winter semi-

nars roll into full swing, with hundreds of learning opportunities to choose from for all levels of staff, and at various locations around the province.

A key phrase in the Prosperity Partners training is, “If you’re aiming at nothing, you’ll hit it with huge accuracy.”

A key Jacki Hart phrase many of you have heard over the years is, “A dream without a plan is just a fantasy.”

So, what’s the plan for your professional development? Where are your gaps? Did you take my advice last month and create a list in each of the five Prosperity Pillars for what really needs to be fixed? If you did, take the time to sit down with your wish list of things to fix, and compare it (your gaps) to LO’s professional development offerings.

Take advantage of the Prosperity Partners roadmap, and plot your route to better prosperity by levering the professional development opportunities available to you and your staff over the coming months.

For more information on the effective management course on Warm-up Mon., Jan. 6, go to www.locongress.com/ effective-mangement-short-course-2014 Jacki Hart may be contacted at prosperity@landscapeontario.com.

GreenTrade Expo 2014…

THE ‘Don’t Miss It’ Show!

82% of our exhibitors renew each year!

Eastern Ontario continues to weather the economic challenges better than anywhere in North America – that’s why we’ve sold out our exhibit space the last 3 years. And here are several other great reasons you should exhibit at GreenTrade Expo 2014…

Compared to other areas, contractors in the stable, eastern Ontario  region are in a better position to buy your products & services 1,200-1,400 landscape industry professionals will attend  Half the attendees are owners/decision makers who come to  make buying decisions We hold our show at the right time of year, in a time & cost  effective, 1-day format, that delivers proven results!



February 12th 9 am – 3 pm Ernst & Young Centre Ottawa Airport

OW! Call N 1 5 6

.5 6 1 3.7 9ib6it S p a c e h Fo r E x

Great, modern exhibition facility – the new Ernst & Young Centre GreenTrade Expo 2014 offers you a great sales & marketing opportunity, featuring plenty of eager, progressive landscape professionals, actively looking for solutions…

Presented by the Ottawa Chapter of…

Book your exhibit space TODAY! Get details & registration information at…

www.GreenTrade.ca

62 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2013

Landscape Contractor LECTURE SERIES

Gain Inspiration and Understanding...

Join your peers for an evening focused on a diversity of residential landscapes, and the many ways outdoor living areas can blend beauty and function with a healthy outdoor lifestyle.

Featured speakers: Adrian Bartels, Cedar Springs Landscape Group and John K. Szczepaniak, OALA John K Szczepaniak, Landscape Architect

Tuesday, February 25, 2014 Paradise Banquet & Convention Centre

Tickets are $15 per person early-bird pricing, includes dinner. HortTrades.com for more information

CLASSIFIEDS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

All classified ads must be pre-paid by credit card. Rates: $50.85 (HST included) per column inch Min. order $50.85. 15% discount on ads run for entire calendar year. Box Numbers: Additional $10.

Confidentiality ensured. Deadlines: 20th day of the month prior to issue date. (eg: June issue deadline is May 20th). January deadline is Dec. 10. Space is limited to a first come, first served basis.

To advertise: E-mail your name, phone number and ad to Robert at classifieds@landscapeontario. com or fax to (905) 875-0183. Online advertising: Website only ads are available for $67.80 (HST included) for Associaton members and $90.40 HST included for non-members. Website ads are posted for 31 days. View ads online at www.horttrades.com/classifieds

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

ESTABLISHED MUSKOKA LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE COMPANY FOR SALE Successful, respected company, locally owned and operated, is looking for a professional and dedicated purchaser. Well-maintained fleet of trucks and equipment. Dependable staff, loyal customer base. Year-round operation.

For serious inquiries only, please reply in confidence by email to: MuskokaOpportunity@gmail.com

MACUTO NURSERIES Experienced farm workers required to perform manual work. Hand cultivating, digging and tree planting. Hourly rate $10.25.

Also required: Driver - Class A licence, Z Certificate and Mobile Crane Operator 0-8. Driver hourly rate $17.50.

Seasonal employment starting April 1, 2014 to Nov 30, 2014. Job site Keswick, Ontario.

Fax resume 905-898-0360 or call 905-898-6856

View these ads and more online at horttrades.com/ classifieds

ADVERTISERS Canadale Nurseries www.canadale.com G & L Group (Draglam) www.gandlgroup.com Hillen Nursery Inc. www.hillennursery.com J. Lockwood Chrysler Ltd. www.lockwoodchrysler.com Kobes Nursery www.kobesnurseries.com Legends Landscape Supply Inc. www.landscapestore.ca Newroads National Leasing www.newroadsleasing.com Potters Road Nursery Inc. www.pottersroadnursery.com Sipkens Nurseries Ltd. www.sipkensnurseries.com Stam Nurseries www.stamnurseries.com Timm Enterprises Ltd. www.timmenterprises.com Uxbridge Nurseries Ltd. www.uxbridgenurseries.com Winkelmolen Nursery Ltd. www.winkelmolen.com

Phone: 519-631-1008

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Phone: 905-669-3538

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Phone: 519-264-9057

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Phone: 289-644-2250

Page 9

Phone: 905-263-8814

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Phone: 905-336-3369

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Phone: 416-587-1021

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Phone: 519-688-0437

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Phone: 866-843-0438

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Phone: 519-424-3350

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Phone: 905-878-4244

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Phone: 877-655-3379

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Phone: 519-647-3912

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PAO HORTICULTURAL We are looking for experienced farm workers required to perform manual work. Hand cultivating, digging and tree planting. Hourly rate $10.25 per hour. Seasonal employment starts April 1 to November 30, 2014. Based out of Hornby Ontario.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Please no phone calls, fax or email resumes: info@paohorticultural.com Fax: 905-875-1511 NURSERY WORKER Required to assist in pruning, potting, transplanting and digging up trees and shurbs.

Seasonal/Full-time from 03/17/14 - 12/15/14. $10.25/hr.

CEDAR VALLEY NURSERY INC. Newmarket, Ontario Fax resumes to (905) 953-7975

EQUIPMENT SNOWBLOWERS FOR SALE Sicard Airport Snow Blowers for sale.

Ready to use. $18,000 each.

Call Mark at 647-830-5348

LIGHTING CONFERENCE THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2014

NEW LOCATION: Teatro Conference & Event Centre 121 Chisholm Drive, Milton

Hosted by LANDSCAPE ONTARIO'S LANDSCAPE LIGHTING SECTOR GROUP

REGISTER AT LightingConference.ca WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 63

For over 25 years, Hillen Nursery Inc. has remained dedicated and passionate about the nursery industry.

64 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO DECEMBER 2013

Mark Endicott General Manager

23078 Adelaide Rd. Mount Brydges, ON N0L 1W0

Cell: 647.923.5182 • Fax: 519.264.1337 mark@hillennursery.com

hillennursery.com

Our featured spreads have been seen in the issues of Landscape Ontario magazine.

Now we invite you to visit our website with easy access to our complete up-to-date listings of hundreds of varieties and more.....