Landscape Trades March 2020

March 2020 VOL. 42, NO. 3

landscapetrades.com

Resolve for 2020: Simplify, automate, prioritize Fred Post aspires to teach The sweet spot in construction contracts

What’s new FOR 2020 PRODUCTIVITY

PM40013519

POWER

and POLISH

N U E VA® S L A B

C O N T E M P O R A R Y. M O D E R N . O R I G I N A L .

OAKSpavers.com

CONTENTS MARCH 2020 VOL. 42, NO. 3

EDITOR AND PUBLISHER Lee Ann Knudsen CLM | lak@landscapeontario.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Scott Barber | sbarber@landscapeontario.com ART DIRECTOR Kim Burton | kburton@landscapeontario.com LANDSCAPE ONTARIO MAGAZINE EDITOR Robert Ellidge | rob@landscapeontario.com MULTIMEDIA DESIGNER Mike Wasilewski | mikew@landscapeontario.com ACCOUNTANT Joe Sabatino | joesabatino@landscapeontario.com ACCOUNT MANAGER Greg Sumsion | gsumsion@landscapeontario.com COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Angela Lindsay | alindsay@landscapeontario.com ADVISORY COMMITTEE Gerald Boot CLM, Laura Catalano, Lindsay Drake Nightingale, Jeremy Feenstra, Mark Fisher, Hank Gelderman CHT, Marty Lamers, Bob Tubby CLM, Nick Winkelmolen Landscape Trades is published by Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association 7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 Phone: (905)875-1805 Email: comments@landscapetrades.com Fax: (905)875-0183 Web site: www.landscapetrades.com LANDSCAPE ONTARIO STAFF Darryl Bond, Amy Buchanan, Tony DiGiovanni CHT, Denis Flanagan CLD, Cassandra Garrard, Meghan Greaves, Sally Harvey CLT CLM, Keri MacIvor, Heather MacRae, Kathy McLean, Ian Service, David Turnbull, Lissa Schoot Uiterkamp, Tom Somerville, Myscha Stafford, Martha Walsh

Landscape Trades is published nine times a year: January, February, March, April, May, August, September, October and November.

NEW for 2020 Browse 15 pages of productivity and product solutions, plan for a prosperous new season.

Page 6

COLUMNS 32 Management solutions

Contractors: Why it’s not too late to simplify, automate and prioritize.

And why you can’t afford not to.

Subscription rates: One year – $46.90, two years – $84.74; three years – $118.64, HST included. U.S. and international please add $20.00 per year for postage and handling. Subscribe at www.landscapetrades.com

BY MARK BRADLEY

Copyright 2020. All rights are reserved. Material may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. Landscape Trades assumes no responsibility for, and does not endorse the contents of, any advertisements herein. All representations or warranties made are those of the advertiser and not the publication.

Views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the association or its members, but are those of the writer concerned.

Stepping up to the microphone, helping younger entrepreneurs build their futures.

BY ROD McDONALD

34 Road to success

36 Legal matters

What contractors need to know about contract details.

BY ROB KENNALEY

42 Mentor moment

Designer Fred Post has a dream about passing on wisdom.

DEPARTMENTS ISSN 0225-6398 PUBLICATIONS MAIL SALES AGREEMENT 40013519 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: CIRCULATION DEPARTMENT LANDSCAPE TRADES MAGAZINE 7856 FIFTH LINE SOUTH, MILTON, ON L9T 2X8 CANADA

GREEN PENCIL CNLA NEWS NEWSSCAPE EVENTS CLASSIFIEDS ADVERTISERS

4 38 39 41 41 41

MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES |

3

GREENPENCIL How you treat suppliers affects something important:

Your bottom line

BY ANONYMOUS

Editor’s note: A landscape supplier sent in this piece unsolicited, along with an anonymity request: “I have penned an article that might cause a bit of a stir, but should be put out there. As a long-time salesperson, this industry is more and more treating suppliers like cattle. It would be nice to give some pause for thought.” This person is straight-up, and totally committed to customer success.

Everything we do at Landscape Trades is based on understanding how hard it is to run a landscape business. So, for our New Products issue, this space goes to a landscape supplier — an essential role, and it’s not easy for them, either.

WE ARE ALL UNDER PRESSURE. No matter how successful, the stresses of cash flow, sales growth, profit, regulations, staffing (the list is almost endless), make running a company difficult. Every business relies on its suppliers — a lot. If goods and services aren’t delivered in a seamless fashion, it affects your company’s performance.

Landscape companies range from one-person operations to multi-million dollar corporations. Quite often, suppliers deal with the entire range.

But how landscape companies deal with suppliers has a bigger effect than many of us realize. How are you, as business owners, to deal with? Which profile below do you fit?

Be honest!

Are you The Customer from Hell?

Not paying your bills. “I will pay so-and-so later; they can wait.” The most damaging thing a company can do, by a country mile, is not pay its bills in a timely manner. Sure, it’s common to be short of cash on occasion, but when it’s a recurring theme, it’s a real problem. Rest assured, if you make a habit of slow pay, you are going to pay more for your product. If it gets bad enough, at some point you will be cut off, and have the wrath of collection agencies after you. Should you decide to simply change suppliers, consider that a relatively small group of specific suppliers talk to each other, and you could well end up out in the cold.

Forcing suppliers to constantly chase you for money gets

4 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

old … really old. And you can take this one to the bank: There will be a day when you really need a favour from a certain supplier. If you jerked him around, chances are pretty good you will be SOL. Beating the living pulp out of your supplier on price.

Sure, you don’t want to pay any more than you have to, but respecting your suppliers’ needs to make a sliver of profit will build better relationships. Be cognizant of distributors who are getting squeezed from both ends; blaming them for what you think are exorbitant prices is often misdirected. If, for a few dollars, you jump ship from your current supplier who has treated you well, don’t expect any favours should you need to come back. Good suppliers covet loyal customers and will bend over backwards when need be.

Demanding first-class service at coach prices. Keep it up. When you are really in a pinch one day, you can likely kiss that one goodbye.

Forcing your supplier to absorb freight. Ok, that can be done, but if your shipment sizes vary, it is guaranteed you will pay more than necessary for that little luxury.

Never return calls … even to your best supplier. Your better suppliers will not hound you needlessly. If you get a call, chances are pretty good there’s something in it for you, too.

A supplier’s dream customer: l Pays the bills on time. l Doesn’t constantly badger on price. l Is pleasant, courteous, and appreciates good products and service. l Is a good communicator.

Are you all of these, or even one or two?

And people: If you have a salesperson who knows his or her stuff, serves you promptly and professionally, and is respectful of your time, then you have a winner. Treat that person like one. LT

Please send feedback to comments@landscapetrades.com.

Reliability that counts ƒ KM 131 R KOMBISYSTEM GivING professionals more tools to get the job done.

When you are on the job, which do you value more: power or versatility? If you answered “both,” then take a look at the KM 131 R KombiEngine. This multi-tasking tool is the most powerful in the STIHL KombiSystem family and features a low-emission engine, delivering 30% longer runtimes compared to its predecessor. It’s compatible with 15 KombiSystem tools, giving you incredible versatility in a fraction of the trailer space compared to stand-alone tools. Each tool slides into the KombiEngine effortlessly and is secured via a quick-release coupling system. Just slide, twist and you’re ready to go.

The KM 131 R saves on storage space and is easy to operate, featuring a semi-automatic choke lever, one-touch stop switch and anti-vibration system.

SPECIFICATIONS DISPLACEMENT

36.3 CC

POWER OUTPUT

1.4 KW

WEIGHT ①

4.4 KG/9.7 LB

① Powerhead weight does not include fuel and attachment.

NOTE: STIHL KombiEngines and STIHL KombiTools are sold separately.

PRO-FLEET COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE PROGRAM STIHL’s Pro-Fleet Commercial Landscape Program is designed to provide commercial landscapers a volume discount on major purchases of 5 or more landscaping power tools. Visit your STIHL Dealer today to find out more and take advantage of the savings!

THE

CLUB EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT

STIHLCANADA

AU

CLUB DONT TOUT LE MONDE PARLE

www.stihl.ca

What’s

on the land

Panel system The Artex Panel System from Permacon lets contractors create a variety of landscaping elements, such as benches, planters, privacy screens or fireplaces.

Permacon www.permacon.ca

Hex shaped paver Unilock introduces the Umbriano Hex Shape to its paver lineup. The Umbriano Hex Shape has a granite-like surface with a subtly mottled colour, Unilock says.

Unilock www.unilock.ca

6 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

new

scape horizon

New products come out a top favourite every time Landscape Trades surveys readers. With that in mind, grab a Tim’s and browse the following pages of new-and-improved offerings for 2020.

Hydroseeder Fibramulch introduces the Finn HT330/400 hydroseeder.

The new hydroseeder provides more power and distance; its long-distance nozzle allows for a spraying distance of over 360 ft. from the boom.

Fibramulch www.fibramulch.com

Outdoor kitchen and barbecue

Radial lift skid steer The SW17 radial lift skid steer from Wacker Neuson delivers 1,700 lbs. of rated operating capacity at 50 per cent and a lift height over 118 inches.

The machine is equipped with a 74 hp turbo-charged Kohler Tier 4 Final engine.

Wacker Neuson www.wackerneuson.com

Gardenzzz now offers Italian-made Fogher barbecues and outdoor kitchens. Fogher barbecues “stand out from the crowd for their exclusive design and patented cooking systems,” the company says.

Gardenzzz www.gardenzzz.com

Battery powered pruner The battery powered Stihl GTA 26 garden pruner has a fourinch guide bar and a chain speed of 26.3 feet per second. The first product of its kind from Stihl, the GTA 26 is designed for pruning small trees and shrubs, as well as precise woodworking projects.

Stihl www.stihl.ca MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES |

7

VALUE KNOWS NO BOUNDARIES. With our recent purchase of Nortrax, Brandt has united every John Deere Construction & Forestry dealership in Canada to bring you the very best equipment, backed by the hardest-working, best-equipped support team in the business, every single day. That’s Powerful Value. Delivered.

Fort Nelson

Terrace

Fort St John

Smithers

Fort McMurray

Grand Prairie

Prince George

Edmonton Nisku

Williams Lake Campbell River Nanaimo

Kamloops Vernon Surrey

Castlegar

Red Deere

Saskatoon

Calgary Cranbrook

Regina

Winnipeg

Thun

100+

800+

SERVICE POINTS

SERVICE TECHS

90m+ 24/7/365

$

PARTS INVENTORY

CUSTOMER SUPPORT

Goose Bay

Grand Falls-Windsor Corner Brook

Bai-Comeaue Mont-Joli Chicoutimi Dryden

nder Bay

Amos

Hearst

Mont Laurier

Timmins Sudbury

Ottawa Barrie

Milton Cambridge London Windsor

brandt.ca 1-888-227-2638

Dégelis

Moncton Quebec City Fredericton Halifax St. Georges Trois-Riviéres St. Agathe Laval Brossard

Peterborough Mississauga Stoney Creek

Bathurst

Sydney

Mount Pearl

Zero turn riding mower The new PRO Z 972 SDL from Cub Cadet features a 35 hp Kawasaki FX1000v engine and a 72-in. triple-7-gauge fabricated steel cutting deck with top, bottom and side reinforcements.

Cub Cadet www.cubcadet.ca

Stump grinder Compatible with most Avant loader models, the new Avant Stump Grinder features a cutting disc that is mounted crosswise, throwing wood waste to the right side – avoiding the operator or the loader. In addition, the stump grinder is equipped with a protective rubber cover which prevents the wood from flying around.

Avant Tecno www.avanttecno.com

Natural stone style slab The new Permacon Stellar slabs are enhanced by Satura technology to recreate the beauty of natural stone without any of the inconveniences, the company says.

The technology also makes the slabs stain resistant.

Permacon www.permacon.ca

Hedge trimmers Echo’s new HC-2210/2810 hedge trimmers come equipped with patented three-sided RazorEdge blades, three-position 180 degree rotating handle, i-30 starter, plus a full spring suspension system.

Echo www.echo.ca

Tile-look slab The new Nueva Slab from Oaks Landscape Products delivers a tile-like appearance with its smooth face, clean finish and subtly-chamfered edges. This 50-mm. slab integrates with Nueva walls and steps, and is compatible with Oak’s textured 50-mm. slab products, Rialto and Monterey.

Oaks Landscape Products www.oakspavers.com

New skid steer and track loader features John Deere enhances its lineup of small-frame G-Series skid steers and compact track loaders (312GR, 314GR, 316GR, 317GR and 318GR) with new features including an integrated four-point tie-down system and an optional rear view camera.

John Deere www.deere.ca

10 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

Compact excavator lineup

Stand-on mower series The new PRO X Series stand-on mowers from Cub Cadet PRO have an easy step-on/step-off design that allows for quick debris pickup, and a bigger deck to max out traction and reduces turfing.

Bobcat Company introduces the R2-Series compact excavators.

R2-Series excavators have been redesigned to deliver enhanced performance, control and efficiency, Bobcat says.

Bobcat www.bobcat.com

Cub Cadet www.cabcadet.ca

Modular system Unilock’s new U-CARA Modular System offers a variety of stainless steel frames that can be mixed and matched to construct grill islands, backsplashes, fire tables, pillars and bars.

Unilock www.unilock.ca

Heavy duty tractor

John Deere introduces the 4M Heavy-Duty Tractor, designed for commercial customers and large property owners. The 4M Heavy-Duty is available in two output ratings, the 52 hp, 4 ​ 052M HD and the 66 hp ​4066M HD​. Both units feature John Deere’s three range eHydro transmission with Twin Touch pedals.

John Deere www.deere.ca

12 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

Riding mower The Walker B27i is a new addition to the Model B lineup featuring a 27 hp Kohler EFI engine in a simplified chassis/body design. A variety of decks are available including seven discharge (36-74-in.) and six mulching (36-52-in.)

Walker www.walker.com

TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO NEW HEIGHTS AND LENGTHS.

With the dependable versatility of Transit and Transit Connect, plus the power and capability of F-150 and Super Duty, Ford’s lineup of commercial vehicles makes achieving your ultimate business goals possible.

2020 SUPER DUTY

2020 F-150

2020 TRANSIT CONNECT

KEY FEATURES • Super Duty has best-in-class* max available payload of 7,850 lbs • F-150 has available features like Pro Trailer Backup Assist^ • Transit has 3 lengths, 3 heights and 58 cargo congurations • Transit Connect has a compact footprint, and a maximum cargo space of 145.8 cu ft†

2020 TRANSIT

Vehicles may be shown with optional features. *When properly equipped. Maximum payload of 7,850 lbs. on F-350 DRW Regular Cab Long Box with 6.2L gas engine and Heavy-Duty Payload Package. Class is Full-Size Pickups over 8,500 lbs. GVWR based on Ford segmentation. ^Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgement and need to control the vehicle. †Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and weight distribution. ©2020 Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited. All rights reserved.

Battery powered cut-off saw Milwaukee’s new 14-in. MX Fuel cut-off saw has a 5-in. cut depth, push start and an onboard water connection.

Shot blast slab Revela is a new shot blast slab from Unilock, available in two sizes and four colours: Mica Grey, Pewter, Metallic Grey and Savannah.

Unilock www.unilock.ca

Milwaukee www.milwaukeetool.ca

Remote control mower

FEATURED PRODUCT

Business solutions brought to you by suppliers.

Run Circles Around the Competition.

The Deere 324L compact wheel loader reaches an impressive 23 mph so you can get the job done quickly. Its articulating frame and rear-wheel steer allow you to effortlessly maneuver through congested jobsites, maximizing stability and lifting power in tight quarters. And, the 324L is fully compatible with Brandt’s lineup of Hard To The Core attachments, giving you the versatility to make fast work of any task.

Spider introduces the Cross Liner, equipped with a terrain copying platform, integrated stabilizing winch, skid-steering option and a commercial Honda engine.

These features allow you to achieve the perfect cutting result even on the steepest slopes, the company says.

Spider www.spider-mower.com

Square cut flagstone The new Square Cut Flagstone from Colonial is sawn from natural stone and is available in various colours, sizes, and thicknesses. With Colonial’s “textured” finish, the Square Cut Flagstone is suited for sidewalks, driveways, pools, and patios.

The texturing process creates a non-slip surface that gives traction even when wet.

Colonial Brick & Stone www.colonialbrickandstone.com

www.brandt.ca

14 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

News Release

TAKE ON THE TOUGHEST JOBS TAKE ON THE AND MAKE IT TOUGHEST LOOK EASY.JOBS AND MAKE IT LOOK EASY.

From compact loaders that set the industry standard to the largest selection of compact excavators, no one gives you more choices or more machine for your money than Bobcat Company. Our rugged equipment is tough enough for your most challenging construction jobs, yet agile enough to do landscaping work where From compact loaders that set the industry standard to the largest selection of compact excavators, no one other machines can’t. When you need to accomplish more, don’t settle for less. gives you more choices or more machine for your money than Bobcat Company. Our rugged equipment is tough enough forUS your TODAY most challenging construction jobs, yet agileTHE enoughBOBCAT to do landscaping work where CONTACT AND EXPERIENCE DIFFERENCE. other machines can’t. When you need to accomplish more, don’t settle for less.

Authorized Bobcat Dealers

CARRIER CENTERS BOBCAT OF BARRIEUS TODAY BOBCAT OF HAMILTON, LTD. BOBCATTHE OF STRATFORD CONTACT AND EXPERIENCE BOBCAT DIFFERENCE. Barrie 705-726-2228

Stoney Creek 905-643-3177 www.BobcatofHamilton.com

Stratford 519-393-6040 www.BobcatofStratford.ca

BARRIE BOBCAT OF BRANTFORD, INC.

HAMILTON, LTD. BOBCAT OF LONDON, LTD.

BOBCAT OF STRATFORD THE Stratford 519-393-6040 TRI-CITIES, LTD.

Authorized Bobcat Dealers www.BobcatBarrie.com

Barrie 705-726-2228 Brantford 519-752-7900 www.BobcatBarrie.com www.BobcatofBrantford.com

BRANTFORD, INC. BOBCAT OF DURHAM EAST, LTD. Brantford905-404-9990 519-752-7900 Courtice www.BobcatofBrantford.com www.BobcatofDurhamEast.com

DURHAM EAST, LTD. BOBCAT OF GREY BRUCE Courtice 905-404-9990 Owen Sound 519-372-9100 www.BobcatofDurhamEast.com www.BobcatofTC.com

BOBCAT OF GREY BRUCE Owen Sound 519-372-9100 www.BobcatofTC.com

Stoney 905-643-3177 LondonCreek 519-455-4900 www.BobcatofHamilton.com www.BobcatofLondon.ca

LONDON, VALLEY LTD. BOBCAT OF OTTAWA London 519-455-4900 Casselman 613-764-2033 www.BobcatofLondon.ca Cornwall 877-244-5593 Ottawa 613-831-5166 BOBCAT OF OTTAWA VALLEY www.BobcatOV.com Casselman 613-764-2033 Cornwall 877-244-5593 BOBCAT OF PARRY SOUND Ottawa705-342-1717 613-831-5166 Nobel www.BobcatOV.com www.BobcatofParrySound.com

BOBCAT OF PARRY SOUND

Nobel 705-342-1717 www.BobcatofParrySound.com

www.BobcatofStratford.ca Kitchener 519-579-9100 www.BobcatofTC.com

BOBCAT OF THE TRI-CITIES, LTD. BOBCAT OF TORONTO

Kitchener 519-579-9100 Brampton 416-679-4172 www.BobcatofTC.com Scarborough 416-679-4171 www.BobcatToronto.com

BOBCAT OF TORONTO Brampton CAN-AM 416-679-4172 TRACTOR, LTD. Scarborough 416-679-4171 Chatham 519-351-4300 www.BobcatToronto.com

CAN-AM TRACTOR, LTD. Chatham 519-351-4300

Bobcat®, the Bobcat logo and the colors of the Bobcat machine are registered trademarks of Bobcat Company in the United States and various other countries. 19489

Bobcat®, the Bobcat logo and the colors of the Bobcat machine are registered trademarks of Bobcat Company in the United States and various other countries. 19489

Sarnia 877-336-4840 Windsor 888-956-8785 www.CarrierCentersEquipment.ca

CARRIER CENTERS Sarnia 877-336-4840 JOHN’S EQUIPMENT Windsor 888-956-8785 SALES & SERVICE, LTD.

www.CarrierCentersEquipment.ca Frankford 613-398-6522 www.JohnsEquipmentSales.coms.

JOHN’S EQUIPMENT SALES & SERVICE, MCGAVIN FARM LTD. Frankford 613-398-6522 EQUIPMENT, LTD.

www.JohnsEquipmentSales.coms.

Walton 877-887-6365 www.McgavinEquip.com

MCGAVIN FARM EQUIPMENT, LTD.

Walton 877-887-6365 www.McgavinEquip.com

Wheel loader design enhancements Caterpillar launches several new design enhancements for its 926M, 930M and 938M small wheel loader line, centered on improving attachment visibility, operator comfort and machine performance. The Fusion Quick Coupler improves visibility to the attachment in material handling applications. LED lighting options help improve machine visibility, and seat upgrades promote comfort.

Caterpillar www.caterpillar.com

Zero turn mowers The new Zero-Turn-Radius (ZTR) mower line from Kioti includes four series: the ZXR, ZXRSE, ZXC and ZXCSE — with a total of 12 riding mower models. Models range from 21- to 27-hp, feature traveling speeds of 8- to 10-mph, and include Briggs & Stratton or Kohler engines combined with Hydro-Gear transmissions.

Kioti www.kioti.com

Flexible. Powerful. Profitable.

Software that’s flexible enough to design on any platform, powerful enough for any job, and created so that your profits are as beautiful as your proposals.

This is PRO Landscape. prolandscape.com | 800-231-8574 | sales@prolandscape.com

16 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

Rectangular slab At 60-mm., the new BW300 slab paver from Best Way Stone is well suited for both patio and rooftop applications.

Best Way Stone www.bestwaystone.com

AT LAST

®

Rosa

Finally, a rose that combines the

• Fragrant blooms

romance of a sweetly perfumed, fully-

• Disease-resistant

petaled tea rose, with the practicality

• Long blooming/reblooming

of a tough landscape rose! With a

• Self-cleaning

nonstop display of large, fragrant,

• Easy care

apricot blossoms and glossy foliage on 5’

a vigorous, rounded habit, this rose is simply scent-sational.

AT LAST® Rosa ‘HORCOGJIL’ pp#27,541, cbr#5631 Full sun • USDA Zone 5 - 9 3' tall and wide

www.provenwinners-shrubs.com

Limestone-look wall The new Mackinaw Wall from Unilock provides the look of split limestone. Available colours are Coastal Slate and Grindstone.

Tractor series The new Kubota LX Series tractors are available in 4WD in both a ROPS and cab, with an HST Transmission – with choices between 24.8 to 30.8 gross engine horsepower.

Unilock www.unilock.ca

Kubota www.kubota.ca

One-handed cordless reciprocating saw Dewalt expands the XTREME Subcompact Series with the introduction of the 12V Max Brushless One-Handed Cordless Reciprocating Saw. The new saw is designed for one-handed use across a wide range of applications, including: cutting PVC, metal pipe, wood, conduit and EMT. Dewalt www.dewalt.ca

Wood-style slab The new Balsam slab from Best Way Stone is designed to give the look and feel of a real wood deck, with the durability of concrete. The Balsam single-slab is available in three new colour blends.

Best Way Stone www.bestwaystone.com

18 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

Electric zero turn mower The new EVO electric zero turn mower from Mean Green Mowers provides up to eight hours of continuous mowing time, a 74-in. deck, and speeds up to 13-mph.

Mean Green Mowers www.meangreenproducts.com

Landscape rake attachment Fibramulch introduces the Mini SR landscape rake attachment, designed to create a decompacted, seed-andsod-ready finish.

Fibramulch www.fibramulch.com

Battery powered chainsaw

Rectangular slab Permacon’s new Mega-Melville slab pavers are perfect for arranging large spaces in a checkerboard or Japanese path pattern, the company says.

The MSA 220 C-BQ is the most powerful Stihl cordless chainsaw to date, the company says. This new chainsaw is designed for wood care, small-sized timber felling, limbing, clearing young trees, timber construction, firewood sawing and use alongside a chipper.

Stihl www.stihl.ca

Permacon www.permacon.ca

Zero turn mower The new APEX zero turn mower from Ariens features fully tubular steel frame rails, a 10-gauge steel deck and a footoperated deck lift system.

Ariens www.ariens.com

20 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

THE STRAIGHTEST RETAINING WALLS IN THE INDUSTRY

LEARN ABOUT OUR LASER PRECISION MILLING

OUR DIVISIONS VISIT OUR WEBSITE

RINOXGROUP.COM

• PAVERS • SLABS • WALLS

• POOLS • MASONRY • ALUMINUM SIDING

Slab and wall Linum slab and wall provide an “elegant, timeless look,� Permacon says. Enhanced with Saturo technology, Linum slabs and walls are stain resistant.

Permacon www.permacon.ca

Backpack blower The new EB770RT backpack blower from Shindaiwa features a 63.3-cc engine, delivering 33.2 N, 756 cfm and 234 mph. The new blower is equipped with a variable-speed tube-mounted throttle with cruise control, side-mounted heavy-duty dual stage air filter, Posi-Loc pipes with integrated anti-static system and a leaf guard.

Shindaiwa www.shindaiwa.ca

Polished table Quarried from Manitoulin Island, Ont., the Weatheredge Polished Table is cut and polished to a glassy smoothness and shine. Coupled with a naturally weathered armour stone base, this table is suited for exterior and interior applications.

Colonial Brick & Stone www.colonialbrickandstone.com

100 mm pavers Rinox introduces the 100 mm-thick Tena and Tena Mega pavers. These pavers are thick enough to withstand heavy vehicle traffic and are available in ash, charcoal and midnight black.

Rinox www.rinox.ca

22 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

INTRODUCING THE EXMARK

COMMERCIAL 30 X-SERIES WALK-BEHIND MOWER.

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS IN PRODUCTIVITY Exmark has expanded its line of 30-inch walk-behind mowers with the introduction of its new Commercial 30 X-Series model. With a new, more powerful engine and transmission, the Commercial 30 X-Series gives landscape maintenance professionals a more productive option, ideal for smaller properties. The increased displacement of the powerful Kohler Command Pro CV200 engine gives it 30-percent more torque than competing engines to quickly power through the toughest, thickest grass. The positive drive transmission delivers increased wheel torque, with easier side hill tracking and variable forward speed up to 3.8mph. The 3-in-1 design also offers the ability to quickly change from side discharge, to bagging or mulching, without tools, and the compact deck enhances maneuverability in tight spaces.

ASK YOUR EXMARK DEALER ABOUT OUR FLEET PURCHASE DISCOUNT PROGRAM exmark.com

Battery powered cut-off saw Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel 9-in. cut-off saw runs on M18 Redlithium batteries and is up to 50 per cent lighter than a gas saw, according to Milwaukee.

Milwaukee www.milwaukeetool.ca

Inground fibreglass pools

Wall mount system The new U-CARA Wall Mount System from Unilock allows contractors to put the finishing touches on a project by cladding existing structures, like unsightly exposed foundation areas or concrete steps, with U-CARA fascia panels.

WPEequipment.ca

Unilock www.unilock.ca

The Rinox Group recently introduced Aquarino inground pools, made with side reinforcements, urethane steps and fiberglass.

Aquarino www.aquarino.ca

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE SERVICE MAKES!

Sales, Service, Rentals

24 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

Family Owned and Operated!

Modern-style slab The Opus slab paver from Best Way Stone has smooth surfaces and sharp, clean lines that make it ideal for modern landscape designs, the company says.

Commercial-grade trimmer The new Echo SRM-2320T trimmer has a 21.2-cc professional-grade engine, and comes with chrome cylinder plating and a two-stage air filtration system.

Echo www.echo.ca

Best Way Stone www.bestwaystone.com

Track loader The new RT-50 Posi-Track loader from ASV boasts a greater performance-to-weight ratio than any machine in its class, the company says. The track loader features a 1,400-lb. rated operating capacity while weighing just 5,350 lbs.

ASV www.asvi.com

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25

Large slab Unilock’s new Arcana slabs feature exposed granite, quartz and marble, and feature a fine blasted surface. The silky, matte appearance of Arcana is further enhanced with EasyClean technology for stain resistance and a non-slip surface, Unilock says.

Unilock www.unilock.ca

Smooth face wall Stand-on mower The Hustler Super 88 stand-on mower has an 88-in. cutting deck, but folds up to 76-in. to fit most trailers. Choose from Vanguard BigBlock or Vanguard BigBlock EFI Oil Guard engines.

Hustler www.hustlerturf.com

The new Nueva 150 wall from Oaks Landscape Products was designed to help installers manage troublesome grade changes, the company says.

The new wall has a sleek profile and smooth face, and utilizes Oak’s patented M-Lock technology.

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Backpack blower Shindaiwa’s new 79.9-cc EB810 backpack blower delivers 1071 CFM/211 mph, with 44 Newtons. The new blower weighs 24.5 lbs. and has a 83.8-oz. fuel tank.

Battery powered lawn mower The new Stihl RMA 510 V self-propelled lawn mower features a 21-in. deck, a 75-litre grass catcher bag and a holding slot for a second battery. The RMA 510 V is the self-propelled version of the RMA 510 mower and comes with all the same features.

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Shindaiwa www.shindaiwa.ca

New colour for slab and paver lines Best Way Stone has expanded the colour options for its Adelaide and Richmond pavers and slabs to include Glacier Creek, one of the company’s most popular colours.

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Stronger paving slabs The new Everest paving slabs from Techo-Bloc are made with the patented HD2 process, providing strength 1.5 times the industry standard, according to the manufacturer. The slabs come in four colours and three sizes, providing many design options. They are pedestrian friendly and de-icing salt resistant.

Mini excavator Doosan expands its mini excavator lineup with the new D ​ X62R-3. The new mini excavator features a reduced tail swing profile — just 4.9-in. of side overhang — that allows contractors to work in confined areas with more flexibility to maneuver.

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Power swivel site dumper Mecalac introduces the TA3SH Power Swivel Site Dumper, designed to deliver superior versatility and performance. The TA3SH is 13 ft. long and 73 in. wide, and features forward and swivel tipping mechanisms, allowing the load to rotate 90 degrees on either side before being tipped.

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John Deere updated its line of rotary cutter attachments with the new RX72 and RX84 models. These new models are designed for heavy-duty vegetation management applications, including property maintenance and right-of-way clearing. The rotary cutter attachments are compatible on large-frame skid steer and compact track loaders, such as the 330G through the 333G, and they are equipped with high-flow hydraulics.

John Deere www.deere.ca

One-man hole digger General Equipment Company introduces the 242H one-man hole digger to its new Epic Series. Exclusive to the 242H is the new Power-Grip operator handle to maximize control, strength and balance, while dampening vibrations. The handle includes a Magura twist-grip throttle for confident control. Its Auger-LOK technology uses a springloaded actuator to lock the auger in place so operators can simply twist the auger out of the hole.

General Equipment www.generalequip.com

Zero turn mower The new IKON XD from Ariens has a solid tubular frame and is available in 42-, 52- or 60-in. cutting widths.

The IKON XD also comes with a plush, high-back seat and large tires for stability and comfort, Ariens says.

Ariens www.ariens.com LT

MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES |

31

MANAGEMENTSOLUTIONS

Simplify your landscape business

BY MARK BRADLEY WITH SPRING just around the corner, it’s time for most contractors I know to finally make New Year’s resolutions, to make you better, bigger, faster or cheaper — whatever your goals may be.

But most contractors take on more than they can handle. The year starts with a grand plan for fixing all kinds of problems. Then suddenly, you find yourself in mid-May and everything’s gone back to what you did last year — and some things might even be a bit worse.

So this year, I’m advising you to make changes and improvements, but to focus on simplifying your business. Take a careful examination of what causes the chaos, and systematically eliminate it through better processes.

REDUCE OPTIONS When you are growing your landscape business and hungry to add clients, you can develop some habits that really stunt your future growth; one is offering too many options.

There are almost an infinite number of ways you can structure a maintenance or snow contract. While you have grown your business, you likely come across customers who want things in all kinds of different ways. They might want to be invoiced by month, or by occurrence. There could be requests for specific invoice dates, for specific additional services, and even for specific occurrences of those additional services.

As you grow the business, the result is potentially hundreds of different-style contracts — each requiring careful attention when it comes to execution and billing. l Sales and estimating take longer to negotiate the options. l Operations has to carefully ensure each property gets all of (and yet only!) the services paid for.

32 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

l Foreman have to ensure they perform

all of (and only!) the correct services on each site. l Each different property and service must be accurately tracked to provide each customer with the information necessary to substantiate your invoices. l Accounting must ensure each contract is billed correctly.

Using a simple example of a contract that includes only basic services like mowing, edging, fertilizing, beds and cleanups — you can come up with over 12,000 realistic, but unique, variations!

As you continue to add jobs with new and custom structures, it takes more time to manage them. And every job carries a greater risk of mistake. You need more overhead time, and eventually staff, to manage planning and tracking; you are far more likely to perform work where you shouldn’t; and you are likely to miss invoicing for work that was completed.

Additionally, your customers make budget-driven decisions that reduce overall quality, resulting in both a frustrated customer and a frustrated contractor.

One of the easiest ways to avoid this scenario is to define the contracts that work for your company and stick with them. l Clearly define a few of the most popular contract structures. l Ensure there is a good mix of budget and quality in the options you define. l Sell those limited options.

Operations, billing, quality control, profitability, and customer satisfaction all get much simpler when there are fewer options to plan, manage, and execute.

AUTOMATE DATA ENTRY One of the simplest ways to simplify your business this year is to just simplify the way information flows from the field to the office. Good communication is essential to a well-run landscape company.

Someone needs to sell the job — and make commitments to the client. Someone needs to plan and manage the work.

Someone needs to perform the work, and then someone needs to manage what was performed and be able to track and invoice it accurately.

In all but the smallest companies, these roles are taken on by different people — and communication is vital to ensuring success. However, communication is also time-consuming, and it is one of the first things to fall off when things get busy.

Automating communication and tracking will save hundreds of hours each year. Of course, the kind of business you run has a big influence on the time it takes to enter information — maintenance will have far more clients, and far more services to track vs. an installation company. But either way, the time savings are enormous. Using software and apps to manage daily tasks like timesheets (payroll), service tracking, invoicing, scheduling and more, you can eliminate

WEEKLY TASK MANUAL AUTOMATED HOURS HOURS

Entering and updating schedules 5 Entering hours for payroll 3 Entering hours for job costing 6 Fixing mistakes and omissions 2 Invoicing 3 Entering information into accounting 8 Generating reports for customers or operations 4 Generating reports for owners and decision makers 4 Total time spent 35

1 0.5 0 0.5 1 1 0.25 0.25 4.5

all kinds of headache-inducing paperwork each week.

Take a minute to examine the chart at left; think of how many hours per week are spent just sorting through data manually versus using technology.

Manually, you are looking at a full-time job just managing information. But with technology, you could condense that time into just a small portion of someone’s week. And because technology validates the data as you enter it (e.g. you can’t submit your time without a.m. or p.m., or you can’t leave an important field blank), the information is far more accurate.

The only companies that don’t benefit from automating their data are those who aren’t tracking it. If you are not job costing, or you don’t have the reports to help the owner make better decisions, I guarantee you are losing far more time in mistakes, re-work, missed billing, payroll errors and more.

FOCUS ON THE 20 PER CENT A really common rule in life is called Pareto’s Rule, stating that 80 per cent of the

effects of something come from 20 per cent of the causes. It is better communicated with a few examples: l 80 per cent of your breakdowns come from 20 per cent of your equipment. l 80 per cent of your losses come from 20 per cent of your jobs. l 80 per cent of your time is spent managing (and fixing) 20 per cent of your staff. … and so on. Instead of looking at all the fixes you could be making in your business each year (and sure, they’re endless), just laser-tune your focus to the few big items that are causing most of the chaos.

The paperwork example above is a brilliant example of Pareto’s Principle in action. You can run around like crazy trying to solve each problem individually, such as time (payroll) theft, daily logs being handed in on time, payroll accuracy, job costing reports, invoice accuracy, customer communication, quality control, scheduling … etc., etc.

Or, you can use a service and time tracking application that will solve most problems in one elegant solution.

Or maybe you constantly fight battles of unprepared jobs, crews showing up and not knowing what they’re doing, jobs taking too long, schedules getting constantly messed up, crews waiting on materials … etc. You could tackle each problem individually — or you can step back and realize that each one could be solved with a clear and complete estimate.

Estimates that clearly spell out hours, materials, equipment, notes and more are invaluable tools for managing the job once it is sold. Good estimates take a bit more time to put together, but they save hundreds hours (and mistakes!) per year — resulting in extra revenue by completing more projects and contracts in the same amount of time. LT

Mark Bradley is CEO of Ontario-based LMN and the former CEO of TBG Environmental.

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www.IsuzuTruck.ca Vehicles shown with optional equipment; some equipment is dealer installed. Vehicles are assembled from component parts manufactured by Isuzu Motors Limited and by independent suppliers who manufacture such components to Isuzu’s exacting standards for quality, performance and safety. Please see your authorized Isuzu dealer for additional details. © 2020 ISUZU COMMERCIAL TRUCK OF CANADA, INC. MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES |

33

ROADTOSUCCESS

Conferences are illuminating

BY ROD McDONALD

FOR OUR READERS who do not get out to the Prairies too often, let me assure you Saskatoon is one of our crown jewels. It has beautiful parks flanking the riverbank, interesting architecture anchored by The Bessborough Hotel, and some great restaurants. From The Broadway Café, which is an old-school diner where you can get liver and onions (don’t make that face), to Calories, a local gem where the food by Chef Remi is incredible. My wife and I love Saskatoon, and a weekend holiday includes staying at The ‘Bess’, walks along the South Saskatchewan, and great meals at the aforementioned eateries.

Now that I have my love letter to Saskatoon written, let me move on. In November, I spoke at the Saskatchewan Greenhouse Growers Conference in Saskatoon.

I had a chance to connect with long-time friends from High Q Greenhouses, Paridon, Jeffries, Aubin’s, Byland’s and Van Noort Nursery Products. I also had the chance to meet up-and-coming greenhouse operators who had questions and then more questions. This column is based upon those interactions.

I often begin my lectures and seminars by asking How many people present have a mission statement and a business plan?

A written one, not something inside their heads. I was not surprised when only two people put up their hands.

Mission statements and business plans are similar to wills. They are important, and no one argues that point, however we take our sweet time getting around to writing them out. We procrastinate. So many new operators I speak with have no 34 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

idea how important the mission statement and business plan are to their success. They worry that once written, they are forever and a day, stuck with those plans. Nothing is further from the truth. A mission statement and business plan are there to serve your needs, and they can and should be changed regularly.

A mission statement, simply, defines who you are or who you hope to become, and a business plan outlines how you plan to get there. It is that simple. Yet, there are some who are afraid of this process.

There is no need to be afraid or reluctant.

Those two documents are there to serve you, and if done correctly and followed, will guide you through your career.

I visit greenhouse and garden center operations and ask, “How is business?”

I am always amazed when the answer is, “We are getting by,” or “We were able to pay our bills this year.” To me, those statements or expectations are not coming from someone who has success as a motivator. Phrases such as above indicate survival mode. None of us went into business to exist within survivor mode.

We had, and have, much higher expectations for ourselves.

Another topic about which I am quite passionate is competing with box stores. I talked about how following the box stores’ low price policy was a recipe for disaster. A box store has so many products in the mix, they can afford items that are at or below cost. For an independent to follow suit, is a fast-track to bankruptcy.

Every operator, big or small, needs to go after their vulnerable flanks. Box stores have no concept of what service really

means, though they do pay lip service to it. You and I both know that throwing a warm body into customer service does not meet the customers’ needs. How often have we seen staff at the box stores who are tag readers? “It says it can grow in sun or part shade.”

We can also compete with box stores when it comes to quality. No secret here, but box stores always look for the best price. Their drive for low pricing forces quality into a downward spiral. The independent, especially when we grow our own plants, not only understands quality, but we can achieve it in a marketplace dominated by price — but lacking in value.

We must always keep in mind price is only one part of the equation. Quality, service and selection are the other three components that make up a sale. In those three areas we shine, and distinguish ourselves from the box stores.

I mentioned how an independent does not want everyone as a customer, as some want to grind us into submission. They quote the lower price offered up at WalMart. No mention of the difference in quality or care. Yes, they will talk our ear off to obtain all of the valuable information, but they are not loyal. They take that information and shop at the box stores. They see themselves as smart consumers, using our knowledge, but never rewarding us with the sale. We do not want those people as our customers. The audience nodded their heads as I made my points. They, too, have been burned in the trenches.

During one Q and A, an independent asked for my opinion on half-price sales.

That was waving the red flag in front of

the bull. I didn’t snort, but I came close. I told my audience I was categorically opposed to half-price clearance sales. I told them when I was starting out in the ’70s and ’80s, it was standard procedure for greenhouses to put their remaining stock on sale for half price come June 1st. Why, I asked as a new operator, do we look after these plants with water, fertilizer and care, and then devalue our product by reducing the price? I refused to engage in the insanity of half-price sales, believing there was a much later market — not

only into June, but July and August as well.

I took heat for my decision. I had people arguing with me all those years ago, that “everyone else has their plants on for half price.” I held my ground, and eventually, those June 1st half-price sales were no more. When we reduce price, we are cutting from our bottom line, and that is not profit. Rather, that line is how we feed our families.

The conference was an interesting experience, to see new and young entrepreneurs struggling with many of the same

issues that I had to face years ago. There are answers to most of our questions, and when we look for those answers, we find we are well on the road to success. LT

Rod McDonald owned and operated Lakeview Gardens, a successful garden centre/ landscape firm in Regina, Sask., for 28 years. He now works full-time in the world of fine arts, writing, acting and producing in film, television and stage.

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2/27/20 2:39 PM

LEGALMATTERS

Factors to consider in drafting contracts

BY ROBERT KENNALEY IN CANADA OVER THE YEARS, construction contracts have become longer and longer, as clauses have been developed to address new and different issues. The standard form CCDC2 stipulated price contract, for example, runs to 30 pages, while the commonly used standard form CCA1 subcontract contains 29 pages. The relatively recent CCDC5B Construction Management Contract runs to an incredible 59 pages. These, of course, do not include pages for supplementary conditions or other contract documents, including the drawings and specifications, all of which detail the work and allocate risk between parties.

Yet for many a contractor working in the residential or small commercial contexts (where they are expected to present their own form of contracts to their owner/clients for signature), it is simply not commercially feasible to drop a 30-, 40- or 50-page document on the table and expect clients to sign off. These types of contractors are also wary of using legalese, for obvious reasons. Accordingly, contractors have to make some tough decisions about clauses to include and how they are drafted. In this article, we won’t offer any advice about specific clauses.

We will, however, offer some thoughts on a few factors and issues which should be considered as part of the drafting process.

(Our list is not at all exhaustive).

CONSUMER PROTECTION LEGISLATION Most provinces in Canada have some form of Consumer’s Protection legislation, such as the Consumer Protection Act in Ontario. If a contractor is retained by what is generally considered a ‘residential’ 36 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

client, chances are very high the client will be entitled to protection under the legislation, and the onus will fall to the contractor to ensure the contract meets certain legislative requirements. If the contract does not do so, the consumer client will be entitled to various forms of relief and compensation under the legislation, which can include termination rights and the right to the return of funds in many circumstances. Individuals responsible for the process can be liable, even if the contractor is a corporation.

Contractors who work with residential clients should accordingly ensure their contracts conform with such legislation.

PROMPT PAYMENT AND ADJUDICATION Ontario’s Construction Act has been amended to introduce prompt payment and adjudication provisions and processes.

The changes are significant. They impose payment terms which override the payment provisions of virtually all construction contracts in the province. In that regard, payers on a contract or subcontract must pay amounts included in a contractor’s proper invoice within specific, tight, timeframes, unless they give notice of their intention not to pay in a specific way, using a specific form, in a specific period of time. In addition, the adjudication provisions allow for construction disputes to be resolved in as quickly as 46 days or less.

The federal government and many other Canadian provinces are following suit with their own forms of similar legislation. In short, if you are relying on your own form of contract or subcontract and you are caught by the new legislation, now is the time to re-do those contract documents.

Your payment provisions will now most likely be void and there are many changes you can, and should, make to better manage the risks associated with prompt payment and adjudication.

CONTRA PROFERENTEM If you are drafting your own form of contract or subcontract, you should be aware of contra proferentem. Under this principle of contractual interpretation, where the contract or subcontract has more than one reasonable interpretation, the party that did not draft the contract is entitled to its own reasonable interpretation. Thus, if you draft the contract and it is capable of more than one reasonable interpretation, your client will be entitled to read the contract as he or she interpreted it. This means care must be taken to ensure the contract is as clear as possible. It should be understood, however, that our Courts will not create an ambiguity where none exists. They will only apply the rule to resolve an actual ambiguity in the contract or subcontract.

IMPLIED TERMS Terms and conditions can and will be implied into a contract or subcontract in certain circumstances. The overriding concern of the Courts in deciding whether or not to do so is based on the desire to determine the intention of the parties.

However, any evidence as to their intent or understanding is inadmissible if that evidence goes contrary to the expressed, clear, terms of the contract. This is what is known as “the parol evidence rule,” which provides that where a written contract is clear and unambiguous, no extrinsic evidence may be admitted to add, vary, or

contradict the words of the contract. In addition, towards deciding whether or not terms need to be implied, the Courts will generally apply the following principles: l A contract must be read as a whole, giving words their ordinary and grammatical meaning, consistent with the surrounding circumstances known to the parties at the time the contract was formed; l Interpretations that would give rise to unrealistic or absurd results are to be avoided, as these would not have been intended by the parties; and l A term will only be implied where it is necessary to meet the true intentions of the parties.

CUSTOM OF THE TRADE It should not be assumed that the custom of the contactor or subcontractor’s trade will necessarily be implied into the terms of the contract or subcontract. This is because, while custom of the trade can be implied, our Courts have made it clear

this will only generally occur where the custom is so “notorious” (which is the word the Courts have used) that the custom will essentially be known to both parties. This, of course, can make reliance on custom of the trade difficult in many circumstances.

CONCLUDING THOUGHTS Those who feel compelled to avoid the use of 30- or 40-page standard form contacts with their clients are in a difficult position. They must pick and choose between clauses those who created the standard forms believe are necessary to properly clarify who is responsible for what. They must beware of applicable legislation and of contra proferentum.

While they can rely on implied terms, doing so can be difficult and uncertain, and relying on custom of the trade will not be possible in most circumstances. In addition, where new legislation introduces prompt payment and adjudication, payment terms will need to be reworked and many issues can and should be ad-

dressed with new contract language. Care needs to be taken to specify work and allocate risk in different ways (perhaps, for example, with notes on the drawings).

In the end, for those who rely on their own contract forms, now is probably the time to revisit the language to ensure the terms and conditions allocate risk and protect the company so far as is reasonably possible in the circumstances. LT

Rob Kennaley practices construction law in Toronto and Simcoe, Ont. He speaks and writes on construction law issues and can be reached for comment at 416-700-4142 or at rjk@kennaley. ca. This material is for information purposes and is not intended to provide legal advice.

Readers who have concerns about any particular circumstance are encouraged to seek independent legal advice in that regard.

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CNLA UNITES WITH COMMUNITIES IN BLOOM The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) is pleased to announce an agreement to acquire Communities in Bloom (CIB) has been reached; governance and ownership of the CiB Program is now under the CNLA umbrella. This strategic alliance will deliver an orderly succession of directors and staff, sustain the integrity of the CIB Program, and will provide exciting new opportunities for the future. CIB and CNLA share many of the same values that promote the greening of cities and foster environmental, economic and lifestyle benefits to Canadians.

The new CIB Board of Directors is comprised of five Directors from CNLA and four Directors from the former CIB Board. Bob Lewis, Susan Ellis, Darlene Kalawsky and John Lohuis (Vice Chair) are the former CiB Directors on the new Board. CNLA members on the Board are Paul Brydges (Chair), Bill Hardy (Treasurer), Rene Thiebaud, Alan White, and Scott Wentworth.

“As Chair of CIB I hope to further develop a strategic alliance between CNLA and CIB to help municipalities and private individuals create and enhance greenspace of all sizes and further educate the public on the value of protecting our environment,” said Paul Brydges.

CIB Founding President and Ambassa-

38 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

CIB Board of Directors (left to right) Scott Wentworth, Susan Ellis, Alan White, Bill Hardy, Paul Brydges, Bob Lewis, Darlene Kalawsky, John Lohuis and Rene Thiebaud.

dor Raymond Carriere said, “On behalf of all those involved in the Communities in Bloom program over the past 25 years, let me thank CNLA for its commitment to the sustainability of the program and the support of the dedicated volunteers, elected officials and municipal staff throughout the country, in making our communities a better places to live in, to work in, to visit — and to face our environmental challenges.”

The CIB board will review the program and develop new strategies while maintaining the important relationships with communities, provincial organizations, existing sponsors and other partners.

More information will be available as the program rolls out over the upcoming year.

NEW ENDORSED SUPPLIER PROGRAM WITH WACKER NEUSON The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) and Wacker Neuson have partnered to create a new, mutually endorsed supplier agreement offering CNLA members a savings program across Canada. CNLA members are now entitled to a five per cent discount off MSRP. CNLA members are to contact the CNLA Member Services Team at 1-888-446-3499 or info@cnla-acpp.ca or more information. LT The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association is the federation of Canada’s provincial horticultural trade associations.

Visit www.cnla-acpp.ca for more information.

U.S. AMENDS BOXWOOD, EUONYMOUS AND HOLLY ENTRY REQUIREMENTS The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) informed the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association on March 4, 2020, that the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has issued a federal order for exports of Buxus, Euonymus and Ilex spp. from Canada to the U.S. This relates to box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis).

The official order regulating all of Canada is posted at gfl.me/h7mH, and is effective immediately.

Shipments imported from Canada must be accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate with an additional declaration (AD) certifying that the plants in the shipment fulfill one of two requirements prior to importation into the United States and territories. The plants must have been produced in a facility or area officially recognized by CFIA as free of box tree moth, or the shipment has been officially inspected and found to be free of box tree moth.

For questions, please contact Jamie Aalbers, CNLA Growers Manager, at 647724-8630 or jamie@canadanursery.com.

GCC SUMMIT HEADS TO EDMONTON Garden Centres Canada (GCC) is hosting its second annual GCC Summit in Edmon-

ton, Alta., July 6-8 at the Edmonton Coast Plaza Hotel. During this unique summit, independent garden centre owners and operators from across Canada will come together to discuss, share and be inspired.

This event takes place over two-anda-half days, and includes a welcoming reception, an all-day tour of unique garden centres — big and small — and a full day of engaging speakers. Speakers include marketing and operations expert Corey Bordine and merchandising expert Eve Tigwell. If you are interested and would like to be kept up-to-date on the 2020 GCC Summit, please contact Anne Kadwell at anne@canadanursery.com.

BRANDT EXPANDS DEALER NETWORK The Brandt Group of Companies, based in Regina, Sask., has completed the acquisition of Nortrax Canada and Nortrax Quebec to extend its dealer network across the country. It is now the exclusive John Deere Construction and Forestry dealer for all of Canada. With the addition of Nortrax locations in Ontario, Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador, Brandt Tractor will now operate a network of over 100 Deere Construction and Forestry dealerships and service points, employing over 3,400 people.

“The addition of 29 stores to Brandt’s already extensive sales and support

network allows for numerous synergies that will benefit our customers across the country,” says Brandt President and CEO Shaun Semple. “This deal makes Brandt the only full-line dealer that spans coastto-coast-to-coast allowing us to put more premium quality products and support services into the hands of more customers than ever before.”

EPA CONCLUDES GLYPHOSATE REVIEW The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concluded its regulatory review of glyphosate.

“After a thorough review of the best available science, as required under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, EPA has concluded there are no risks of concern to human health when glyphosate is used according to the label and that it is not a carcinogen,” the agency states.

More information on glyphosate and EPA’s interim decision visit www.epa.gov/ ingredients-used-pesticide-products/ glyphosate.

DUTCH BREEDER WINS AIPH AWARD Anthura BV won the International Grower of the Year 2020 Award from the International Association of Horticultural Produccontinued on page 40 ers (AIPH).

MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES |

39

The 2020 AIPH International Grower of the Year Award was won by Anthura.

The Bleiswijk, Netherlands-based grower won the Gold Rose award, presented

by Royal FloraHolland CEO Steven van Schilfgaarde, at the AIPH IGOTY Awards on Jan. 28 at IPM in Essen, Germany.

Now in its 11th year, The Grower of the Year Award is an annual celebration of excellence and best practices in ornamentals production. Anthura was also awarded gold in the young plants and sustainability categories.

The awards are adjudicated by a panel of six internationally renowned horticul-

ture experts, chaired by AIPH VicePresident Tim Edwards.

VINELAND HIRES DIRECTOR OF AUTOMATION Vineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland) named Hussam Haroun director of automation. In his new role, Haroun will oversee Vineland’s activities related to automation, artificial intelligence and digital agriculture technologies. Haroun holds a masters of engineering, entrepreneurship and innovation from McMaster University

and has experience in the telecommunications industry, managing multimillion dollar projects with Rogers Communications as a senior design engineer.

“Haroun’s technical, business and leadership experience will provide an excellent foundation for his role at Vineland in leading the automation team to success,” says Tania Humphrey, PhD, Vice President, Research and Development. “Automation is key for Canadian growers to address rising Hussam Haroun costs, labour accessibility and more efficient resource management.

Vineland is proud to be a leader in this developing field.”

CORRECTION The article in January 2020 Landscape Trades, “Atlantic designers tour Normandy,” carried an incorrect byline. The story was written by Bob Howard. LT

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Briggs & Stratton Power Products

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VOL. 41, NO .5

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MENTORMOMENT

Aspiring mentor FRED POST has been in the landscape business for 42 years, and figures he has another dozen left in his career to pass on his knowledge. Currently a senior landscape designer with Green Apple Landscaping of Toronto, Post looks back on a body of knowledge he acquired the hard way, and forward to somehow sharing it with upcoming generations.

back? I believe that is not what we in the landscape community are about.

Do you find young designers are open and willing to learn from your mistakes?

I think they need to be taught how to learn; it seems most young designers want to go right into the office rather than going to work.

FRED POST What exactly do you want to teach?

That’s not how it works, you have to put in I want to teach what I know. If you approach your time. You are not going into manageour business without a plan, you will fail. I want to share how ment at age 20. In a way, that’s how things have flipped around to sell a design, how to read a customer’s body language, how today; employees seem to have more of the upper hand. I think to sell a project and how to complete a project. My vision is to the associations and schools can help teach new people how to create a team of landscape advisors to provide succession of work up through the ranks, to learn from hard knocks. information — to help new talent forget about the roadblocks.

What inspired you to work toward that plan?

When I was new in the industry, I could always ask people for help. My second employer, Hank Gelderman, went on site visits with me and he said, “You have to go to Landscape Ontario, and you have to go to school. I will help you.” So, I did. I was among the first to graduate from the old Sheridan College winter program, along with future top professionals like Barry Hordyk.

It took time and it took guts. That was in the ’70s, not that far from where we are now in 2020 — what a ride. Acquiring learning tools is one of the best things you can do, and I believe every employer should invest in training.

Have you figured out how to share your knowledge?

No, I am trying to figure it out. Video tutorials? Online classes?

Channels like Facebook or LinkedIn? I could teach 3D design on-screen; students could follow along from remote locations — there are lots of possibilities. Once we have created a course, maybe through Go to Meeting, it can be archived in a database.

Practical aspects are very important. The hardscape education we have at Congress, for example, is great — we need practical training for designers as well.

It’s all about teaching people; I want to pick designers up and prevent them from going through the mistakes I went through. I think it’s our obligation. How many times have people not given

42 | MARCH 2020 | LANDSCAPE TRADES

In design, we have both classic principles and ever-changing trends.

What is most important to teach?

I am a Dutch guy, and I go back home to see what’s new, since they are always ahead of us. When I come back, I am informed and up-to-snuff on the next big thing. On the other hand, there is always demand for traditional design, skyrocket junipers and yews. The suppliers are always presenting modern ideas on features like retaining walls, but there is nothing wrong with armour stone, or even rockery — to use an old idea. You just pick out your own niche, because there is a market for everybody.

What would help your idea to grow?

I would love to see a playbook from somebody who has done this and is successful. Somebody who could teach me the pitfalls. When it comes to reaching people, the association connection is huge. I started volunteering with Landscape Ontario in the ’70s, served on a chapter board and in the Landscape Designers group. Maybe some of us old farts can build such a program through our associations. LT

Fred Post invites industry members with suggestions on his idea to contact him through Landscape Trades, comments@landscapetrades.com.