Landscape Ontario - November 2016

November 2016

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Bright spotlight on design

By Paul Brydges LO President

I

have very exciting news to report on two milestones that have put the landscape design world in the spotlight in Canada.

Firstly, the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) and Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA) coalition has produced the Canadian Landscape Standard — a national standards document to follow for design and implementation on all of our projects. To have this standard, instead of just guidelines, is a first for our profession.

Moving forward, the goal is that municipalities should (and will) be asking for these standards to be implemented in the design process of any sites. The Canadian Landscape Standard should, and inevitably will, be enforced upon implementation of all projects. The sooner we can all adopt the standards into our design and construction, the easier it will be for our teams to embrace this methodology as the new norm.

November, 2016 • Volume 34, No. 10 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.

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Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Department Landscape Ontario 7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 Canada Phone: 905-875-1805

This is also the biggest news we have had to put out to the public in recent years.

Homeowners will now be able to ask designers and contractors if they are pricing and building to this same standard. This will start to widen the gap between member companies and those who play outside the new rules. It will be much more difficult for those companies who don’t deliver formal designs or details on their quotes to justify why they are cheaper than others.

This problem will never go away, but as our clients become more discriminating and demanding, this standard will help us all continue to strive to reach the next level.

As we continue to discuss the possibility of a Name Act for landscape designers in ongoing meetings with government officials and the OALA, this recent development shows the profession of landscape design is finally coming of age in North America.

The Name Act is only a provincial initiative, but Ontario is often the leader in implementing new programs and new legislation for the entire nation.

The need for existing members who are working on their CLD, as well as potential members who want to achieve their CLD has never been higher. Name Act legislation will inevitably come with a unique and

Editor Robert Ellidge rellidge@landscapeontario.com, 647-722-5645 Assistant editor Scott Barber sbarber@landscapeontario.com, 647-478-3171 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 Publisher Lee Ann Knudsen CLM lak@landscapeontario.com, 416-848-7557 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO STAFF Darryl Bond, Amy Buchanan, Kim Burton, Myscha Burton, Rachel Cerelli,Tony DiGiovanni CHT, Denis Flanagan CLD, J. Alex Gibson, Jeff Hicks, Heather MacRae, Kristen McIntyre CHT CEM, Kathy McLean, Linda Nodello, Kathleen Pugliese, Ian Service, Tom Somerville, Martha Walsh, Cassandra Wiesner

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 2016, reproduction or the use of whole or any part of the contents without written permission is prohibited. Published 11x 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

possibly strict set of eligibility guidelines.

The idea is that all members who already have their CLD would be grandfathered in to the Name Act legislation.

Landscape Architects who are members of a provincial association are also eligible to receive their CLD designation through grandfathering. This dual designation will help when lobbying government for both the Name Act and Practice Act legislation. Evidence of two different associations working together will only help to strengthen us all.

Secondly, another major milestone was achieved in the design world on Sept. 20.

Landscape Architect Cornelia Hahn Oberlander was awarded the inaugural Governor General’s Award for Landscape Architecture. Of the 13 applicants who were judged, there is no better first recipient than Oberlander. Her 60 plus years of practice has advocated everything we stand for. As landscape designers, we could not be prouder to be part of a profession that shows the world our passion for plants and the environment. Congratulations from all of us at Landscape Ontario, and thank you for all you have done and will continue to do for the profession.

Government now recognizes the economic, social, environmental and intrinsic value of our profession. Couple Oberlander’s award with the national standards and the time could never be better for us to continue to advocate and demand that we as professionals can, and do make a positive difference in our global environment.

Paul Brydges may be reached at paulbrydges.la@sympatico.ca.

FOUNDATION REPORT Page 17

SCHOLARSHIP PROFILES Page 20

4 6 8 15 16 23 25 31 31

FEATURES GREEN STREETS CONGRESS 2017 PREVIEW

ASSOCIATION NEWS NEW MEMBERS EVENTS INDUSTRY NEWS COLUMNS AD INDEX CLASSIFIEDS WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 3

Earlier this year, a section of downtown Picton, Ont. looked more like a park during Canada Day festivities.

Landscape profession takes aim at reconnecting people with nature When part of a downtown street is suddenly closed off to vehicle traffic and transformed into a lush green lawn in a matter of minutes, local residents immediately take notice. The once colourless, off limits area instantly becomes a place where impromptu activities break out: a game of soccer, a yoga class, or even a game of tag.

Welcome to the Green Streets Challenge. An idea “just strange enough that it catches people’s attention,” describes Andy Paluch, Executive Director of Come Alive Outside. The mission of the Ohio-based, non-profit organization is to reconnect people with nature in communities across North America.

Back in 2011, Come Alive Outside held an inaugural meeting of about 100 contractors, says Paluch. Their goal was to figure out ways the landscape professions could play a vital role in reconnecting people with nature to live healthier lives.

Landscape Ontario member Scott Wentworth, president of Wentworth Landscapes was at that meeting in Chicago. Wentworth came away inspired and he and his team, based in Picton, Ont., later came up with the idea for the Green Streets Challenge.

At that time, Wentworth was celebrat-

4 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2016

ing its 20th anniversary in business and was doing some community work on a fitness trail in Picton. Scott Wentworth says “it seemed to make sense to connect that project with a movement that was much larger than something that was just within our community, knowing that could add to the whole Come Alive Outside movement.”

Celebrating Canada Day outdoors Wentworth approached city council and presented data on the social health issues connected with the sedentary lifestyles of today’s youth, with a request to declare Prince Edward County the first Come Alive Outside community in North America — wrapping in the fitness trail and a Canada Day celebrabration that would see an area of the downtown core sodded with the purpose of “teaching kids the lost art of unstructed play,” Wentworth says.

Wentworth’s request was met with unanimous approval and that first Green Streets Challenge in 2011 has been repeated each year since.

Wentworth says it makes life much easier to hold such an event by partnering with a municipality or local BIA, something Paluch is very passionate about as well.

“The really cool thing that is happen-

ing right now,” says Paluch, “is connecting the landscape profession within a network of partners within their community, lending their expertise to partners that are really concerned with the same problem.”

Wentworth is so passionate about being a part of those solutions that he also serves as Vice President on the Come Alive Outside Board of Directors and has embraced the mission of meaningful work in his company culture at Wentworth Landscapes.

He says his team understands that a simple thing like laying down sod for a client not only benefits them — visiting friends, family and neighbours will also benefit when using the area. Add the environmental benefits of turf to the community and the Wentworth Landscapes’ team culture of meaningful work and contributing to a much larger goal is realized.

“It’s an intuitive message,” Wentworth explains. “You don’t have to tell people we have an epidemic of obesity and diabetes and kids who are disconnected with nature.”

Both Wentworth and Paluch agree, that message was much harder to get across five years ago when they started.

A growing movement

Following the success of events in Picton, other communities in Ontario have taken on the Green Streets Challenge. In early August, the City of Woodstock held their first Green Streets Challenge as part of its annual Summer Streetfest. The idea for the Woodstock event started when Reta

Horan, Assistant Supervisor of Parks, in charge of horticulture for the City of Woodstock Parks Department heard about the work of Come Alive Outside from Andy Paluch while attending Congress 2016.

Working for the City, Horan spearheaded the project, using her connections with the downtown business association who runs the street festival. Horan felt it was the perfect opportunity to stage the event.

With the venue secured, Horan then connected with LO member John Perriman, owner of Mountview Services in Princeton, Ont., who then secured the sod from Middlesex Sod Supply. Perriman’s crew of seven laid down the eight skids of sod on the morning of the streetfest in about a half hour.

Perriman says the transformation of about 5,600 sq. ft. instantly drew attention.

“The sod was a big draw for the Streetfest.

Lots of people were asking about it and taking pictures to share with friends and family on social media. I think the message was well received,” he says.

“The downtown BIA loved it because everyone was raving about it. It became a destination. The whole community really loved it,” Horan says.

Once the sod was rolled up, it was installed the next day at a new park that didn’t have a large enough budget for sod, only seed. “Our community is really growing,” says Horan, which means a lot of new parks being constructed and having the sod really makes a difference.

Horan is already planning the event again next year and says the event this year may help to create awareness for some of the other programs held in the summer.

Come Alive Outside Design Challenge

The Come Alive Outside Design Challenge is another event Wentorth has

The Woodstock Summer Streetfest featured exercise classes, soccer and random play.

been involved in for a number of years.

The most recent one held in mid-October, engages landscape design students from several colleges and partners them with landscape companies to actually build their designs at local schools.

“How to get more young people into the profession is another message that the program addresses specifally with the Design Challenge,” Wentworth explains.

“College students then become ambassasors for the industry.”

Wentworth says by connecting educators, students and professionals via the Design Challenge, it helps to attract more young people to the landscape professions — exposing them to the many positive effects their work has on the community.

Future goals

The long term goal of the Green Streets challenge is to show health care professionals, pediatricians, educators, city planners and government that the landscape professions can be the real experts who offer real world solutions for reconnect-

Families, friends and and neighbours take full advantage of a closed off street in Picton on July 1.

ing people with nature in order to create healthier, happier lifestyles. Paluch says “we are not there yet,” but with more events being held and more conversations started as a result, a shift in thinking is not far off.

“For us, the goal is to see more and more companies coming on board and embracing the shared mission. It’s really a hugely impactful thing and when it comes down to the front lines of reconnecting people with nature, there is nobody in a better position than landscape professionals,” says Paluch.

In mid-August, the Green Streets Challenge also took place in Huntsville, Ont., garnering a lot of attention from local media and residents.

“When you have a hospital and a children’s museum and a landscape professional all working together, that’s a really exciting thing,” says Paluch.

More information on Come Alive Outside and the Green Streets Challenge and Design Challenge, in additon to many resources, can be found on their website at comealiveoutside.com.

Downtown Woodstock was transformed for the day using eight skids of sod, seven people and about 30 minutes.

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Irrigation Conference

The Ontario irrigation industry comes together for a half-day of sessions as well as some face-time with leading edge suppliers, ending with lunch. Speakers include Jeremy Harris from the Regional Municipality of Peel and Warren Gorowitz from Ewing Irrigation, with topics on sustainability, smart irrigation technologies and an update on the Water Smart Irrigation Program (WSIP). Sessions may count towards continuing education credits; verify with your certification body.

Access to the world-class conference program that runs concurrently with the trade show is available for an additional fee in the form of one- or three-day passes, giving access to over 30 informative sessions, including: Congress has education geared to all professions in the green industry.

Learn something new at Congress 2017 From fresh faced newcomers straight out of school, to industry veterans with decades of experience, Landscape Ontario Congress 2017’s diverse lineup of world-class educational sessions and learning opportunities offers something for everyone. Led by engaging and knowledgeable green industry professionals and business leaders, this year’s sessions, conferences and live demonstrations aim to make you and your staff even better at what you do this upcoming season.

The educational opportunities at Congress kick off Jan. 9 (one day before the trade show), with Warm-Up Monday. Attendees are reminded to check start times and locations for the various events. Registered attendees of the Monday sessions also get admission to the trade show when it opens the following day and to the Tailgate Party on Jan. 11.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Symposium

Landscape Designer Conference

More sector-specific learning opportunities continue throughout the show days (Jan. 10-12), with the following events:

Presented by the Landscape Ontario Designer Sector Group with recognition of the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA), this full day-event features an AGM and includes talks by innovative presenters: Ron Koudys, Lei Chang, Glenn Herold, Craig Applegath, Scott Wentworth and television personality Carson Arthur. Topics deal with both climate and social change with others are focused on working smarter. Sessions attended qualify for OALA continuing education credits.

6 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2016

A uniquely respected event since 1965, the annual Symposium features the latest research, practices and discussions that offer real-world solutions for optimizing turf and minimizing conditions that favour pests, insects and weeds. Lunch, a supplier showcase and a reception are included. As well, the IPM Leadership Award will be announced. Attendees will earn six continuing education credits (CECs) from the IPM Council of Canada.

Peer to Peer Workshop

Join Jacki Hart for her ‘roll up your sleeves’ round table that will see business owners work together — brainstorming and experimenting, while applying new, cutting-edge leadership techniques to the daily operation of their businesses.

Garden Centre Symposium

The newly formatted garden centrefocused event returns to Congress and will include two full workshops with business guru Tom Shay, with focus on advanced buying and selling techniques.

Also included is the Awards of Excellence Ceremony for the Garden Centre Program and recognition of winners in the Growers Program.

Keynote speakers

Congress ’17 provides some of the most inspiring and exciting keynote speakers to date. On day one, celebrity chef Anna Olson will share highlights from her entrepreneurial and culinary journey, her initial inspirations and mentors, as well as tales of cookbook writing and food television. The keynote program culminates with four-time Canadian Olympic hockey player – three-time gold medalist — Becky Kellar, as she draws parallels between business and sport.

Life Lessons at Lunch

Some of the professions’ most innovative thinkers will engage each day in the popular Life Lessons at Lunch sessions.

Learn practical knowledge to make your business better, from professionals that have done it already, including: Jennifer Lemcke, Weed Man U.S.A.; Adrian Bartels, Cedar Springs Landscape Group; Janna Bradley, TBG Environmental; and Santo Gucciardi, International Landscaping. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions to the interactive discussions.

Owners Only Workshops

These two-hour workshops spearheaded by business experts Mark Bradley, Bill Hogg and Jacki Hart provide owners an intimate forum for improving efficiency and the proper tools to monitor business operations share experiences.

Those who attend just the trade show have access to the following demonstrations and learning opportunities taking place directly on the show floor:

Hardscape LIVE!

Delegates are in for a treat with the return of Hardscape LIVE! to the show floor, courtesy of Landscape Ontario’s Hardscape Committee. Pat McCrindle and special guests will school the audience on the latest hardscape installation techniques with a live build each morning and afternoon over the three days of the trade show. McCrindle has the highest possible accreditation as an instructor for the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) and over 30 years of experience.

A dynamic presenter with a no-nonsense approach, McCrindle consistently tops the speaker rating list for his demonstrations at Hardscape North America.

Accredited professionals can also earn one ICPI continuing education credit per session attended.

MTO circle checks

Avoid costly fines, tickets and down time on your trucks and trailers by following a live road inspection demonstration on the show floor. Get exclusive access to MTO officers who can answer your questions and make recommendations to keep your vehicles and road equipment safe.

e

Live demonstrations will include Hardscape LIVE! and MTO circle checks.

New Products Showcase

New products are one of the most popular reasons people attend Congress.

Discover innovative new equipment, products, plants and technologies at the New Products Showcase area on the show floor.

Speaker’s Corner

Don’t dig yourself into a grave situation; learn about underground utility damage prevention from the Dig Safe alliance.

Bring your questions and learn about

your responsibilities and requirements under Ontario law.

Canada Blooms Campus

Come interact and see what horticulture program students are learning and witness their talent at a number of student gardens located on the show floor.

For complete information and to register online, visit the Congress 2017 website at LOcongress.com.

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den Coordinator Janet Stephenson says, “Everyone worked together, young, old, landscapers and volunteers. Everyone was cooperative, helpful and kind.” Stephenson noted she was also impressed at how well organized the event was and “how generous the various landscaping companies were that helped.”

Organizers would like to give special thanks to the following LO members who participated in and supported the event: Lloyd’s Landscaping, Bryden Landscaping, Arnts The Landscape Supplier, Timm Enterprises, B.K. Baun Landscape and Humphries Landscape Services.

The following day, another 350 trees were planted in Ajax, Ont., by another group of local volunteers, Forests Ontario, the City of Ajax and Vineland Research and Innovation Centre.

The Highway of Heroes Living Tribute plans to plant 117,000 trees, one for every fallen soldier since Confederation, along the stretch of Highway 401 from Trenton to Keele St., known officially as the Highway of Heroes.

Mark Cullen, (centre) Board Chair of the Living Tribute, joined by cousin Bruce Cullen (left), recently retired as head groundskeeper of the Metro Toronto Zoo, and Norm Mills (right), President of Landscape Ontario’s Durham Chapter.

Durham members plant trees for HOH Several members from LO’s Durham Chapter volunteered their time and expertise on Oct. 1 to help the Highway of Heroes Living Tribute with a community tree planting in Whitby, Ont. The group of LO and community vol-

unteers included Whitby mayor Don Mitchell and Lorne Coe, MPP for WhitbyOshawa. Over 250 native trees were planted next to the community gardens at St. John’s Anglican Church.

St. John’s Anglican Community Gar-

LO TO HOLD AGM JAN. 12

All Landscape Ontario members are invited to attend the Annual General Meeting (AGM), held this year on Jan. 12, 2017 at the International Plaza Hotel, Ballrooms A and B, located at 655 Dixon Road, Toronto.

Registration and breakfast start at 7 a.m. with the meeting starting at 8 a.m.

Members will get a recap of association activities from 2016 and hear what is planned for 2017 and the years ahead. If there are any issues that require a vote by members, one representative from each

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member company is eligible to vote. The AGM is also the best place for any member to voice their opinion on any issues concerning the landscape professions.

An RSVP to Kathleen Pugliese at 1-800-265-5656, ext. 2309 or kpugliese@ landscapeontario.com is required.

SNOW CONTRACTORS HONOUR DAVID LAMMERS

Garden Grove Landscape Management president David Lammers received a 2016 Leadership Award from the Accredited Snow Contractors Association at its Executive Summit in August. Lammers launched a Waterdown-based full service landscape and snow and ice company in 1990 alongside his brother Paul.

Over the last 25 years, the pair developed into industry leaders in the competitive Greater Toronto Area market. Garden Grove recently became the first ISO and SN 9001 certified snow management company in Canada.

“A man of principles, beliefs and a sense of fairness, David Lammers is strong in faith and family, qualities that have shaped his personal and professional life,” Mike Zawacki, editor of Snow magazine, said during the award presentation. “Many close to him describe the David Lammers they know as wearing two distinct faces... one is the serious down-to-business face and the other is the big gregarious smile when he’s joking around and having fun. Snow magazine and the ASCA were honored to recognize David Lammers with a Leadership Award during the 2016 Executive Summit.”

Lammers graciously accepted the award on behalf of his team.

“The one thing that I want to be very clear of this evening is that this award is not about me as much as it is about this industry,” he said. “I’m a firm believer, having started this company with my brother from scratch, like many of us have, we do not inherit much; we have to make everyday what we do. We have to inspire, lead, empower and give vision at all levels through our organization.

I stand here among you because it is about what we have to do to inspire and lead everyday in an incredible industry that is built on strength and power and an industry that is built on loyalty as well as true work ethic.”

AMY BUCHANAN JOINS LO EVENTS TEAM

Landscape Ontario is pleased to announce the recent addition of Amy Buchanan as Event Coordinator to the home office staff in Milton, Ont. Buchanan brings 15 years of experience in event management to LO’s trade show department, helping with Congress and as the point of contact for LO’s Awards of Excellence Program, Lighting Conference, Lecture Event and Growers Industry Auction.

The Industry Auction on Sept. 16 was Buchanan’s first LO event. “The Industry Auction was probably the most fun event I have ever done. [The growers] all know what they are responsible for and they just jump right in,” Buchanan said.

A graduate of the Special Event Management Certificate program at Humber College, Buchanan previously worked on the continuing legal education program for the Ontario Bar Association and on the Canadian conference program for the Canadian Institute — an organization that offers conferences to the energy, insurance, financial and health care sectors, to name a few.

A resident of Milton, Buchanan enjoys

playing baseball and reading. She is looking forward to witnessing “the grand scale” of LO’s Awards Ceremony at Congress, and after seeing the inspiring entries from LO members, she has recently taken up gardening as well.

Amy Buchanan can be reached at 905-875-1805, ext. 2329 or by email at abuchanan@landscapeontario.com.

CLINTAR WINS WATERLOO BASEBALL TOURNAMENT

Landscape Ontario’s Waterloo Chapter held its baseball tournament in Breslau, Ont., on Sept. 25. Participating in the event were seven teams from across Waterloo and Wellington counties. The teams represented various fields of business including landscaping, construction, property maintenance, and equipment

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suppliers. The format was structured to guarantee teams had two games to play, with the final game wrapping up in late afternoon. Included in the entry fee was a delicious lunch prepared and served by TNT Property Maintenance. Also included were numerous prize draws that were graciously donated by local companies.

Players ranged in age from 18 years and up, and fun was had by all in the family-friendly event. Congratulations to Clintar Landscape Management, Kitchener as they narrowly beat out TNT Property Maintenance in the championship game to take home the trophy. Make sure to keep an eye on the LO news for next year’s Waterloo Chapter Baseball Tournament and start to build your roster, as organizers anticipate more team participation and additional offerings to participants.

Organizers would like to thank tournament sponsors: Nutrite, UPI, Swanson’s Home Hardware, Compact Sod, Creative Landscape Depot, Adams Landscape Supply, Battlefield Equipment, Your Salt Connection, Marsh.

— Trevor Sloan

The winning team: Clintar Landscape Management, Kitchener.

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Breakfast served at 7:00 a.m.

The meeting begins at 8:00 a.m. sharp.

Open to all Landscape Ontario members.

Please RSVP by December 29, 2016, Kathleen@landscapeontario.com

LO MEMBERS CAN ATTEND CONGRESS FOR FREE A new Landscape Ontario member benefit, courtesy of the association’s show committee, was announced back in mid-October; free Congress 2017 trade show admission for LO members and their employees who pre-register online.

Details of the offer were sent out via an email broadcast that thanked members for being part of the LO family and included the special code (MBR2017) when registering online for a trade show pass.

In addition, distribution of both electronic and printed versions of the traditional VIP pass for exhibitors began in mid-October. The free VIP pass allows exhibitors to invite their customers to the trade show and can be used to pre-register or onsite in a designated line.

Congress 2017, Canada’s Premier Green Industry Trade Show and Conference, runs Jan. 10-12 at the Toronto Congress Centre. For full details and online registration, visit LOcongress.com.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS LO GARDENS TO PROMOTE HIGHWAY OF HEROES LIVING TRIBUTE

In the spirit of national pride and unity, the Landscape Ontario gardens at Canada Blooms 2017 will celebrate the Highway of Heroes Living Tribute campaign to plant 117,000 trees along the Hwy. 401 corridor from Trenton to Toronto.

Under the stewardship of LO president Paul Brydges and Highway of Heroes executive director Scott Bryck, the displays will feature four distinct gardens, representing the spring, summer, fall and winter seasons.

“The goal this year that we are really getting behind, is to promote the Highway of Heroes Living Tribute to the public and to let people know all about what a great campaign it truly is,” Brydges said.

“To accomplish that goal, we will be creating four displays that showcase the simplicity of gardening as well as the beauty of garden design in all four seasons.”

The annual Canada Blooms festival is set for March 10-19, 2017 at the Enercare Centre in Toronto, Ont. For more information, visit canadablooms.com.

The LO presence at Canada Blooms will feature gardens that showcase the simplicity of gardening in each of the four seasons.

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MEMBERS CELEBRATE NATIONAL TREE DAY

Many LO members celebrated National Tree Day on Sept. 21 by organizing and planting trees in various community settings. Among those, several franchises of Clintar Landscape Management planted trees at schools in Markham, Kitchener, Ottawa and Halifax and at a hospital in Brampton. While planting, Clintar staff also taught students about the many benefits of trees. Next year, Clintar’s goal is to plant a tree at a local school across all of their franchises.

The Landscape Ontario board of directors also celebrated National Tree Day by planting a pair of Acer rubrum at the north end of the LO home office property in Milton.

GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER THINKS SPRING

Following a successful Gear Up for Spring event earlier this year, members of Landscape Ontario’s Golden Horseshoe Chapter are already busy planning the event for 2017.

The event will return to the Ancaster Fairgrounds on March 28, 2017, and feature informative sessions by the Ministry of Transportation (MTO), Halton Police Commercial Vehicle Unit and other industry related professionals — all aimed at taking a proactive approach to safety compliance.

This free event for LO members and their employees will also feature new products and access to many tools, equipment and suppliers via a trade show that promises to be even larger than last year.

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Clintar’s Terry Nicholson (left) explains the positive effects of trees to a group of students at German Mills Public School in Markham.

LO’s provincial board of directors planted two Acer rubrum in Milton in celebration of National Tree Day.

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WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 13

ASSOCIATION NEWS Organizers are now accepting registrations for exhibit space, demonstration areas, lunch, refreshment, and event sponsors, draw prizes and prize donations. Windmill Power Equipment (WPE) has already signed on as a main sponsor of the event.

A full information/registration package is now available. Please contact Lee Rozon, Golden Horseshoe Chapter Coordinator, at lrozon@landscapeontario.com or 1-877-640-4005. The package is also available on the chapter’s webpage at horttrades.com/goldenhorseshoe.

Gro-Bark holds industry open house

Gro-Bark recently invited the industry to an open house and tour celebrating the company’s new headquarters in Caledon, Ont. An LO member since 1980, GroBark supplies mulches and soil mixes, and manufactures mixes for container nursery production and compost ingredients. There is also a landscape retail outlet on site. The 50-acre Mayfield Rd. operation processes enough material in four years to fill the entire Rogers Centre.

MEMBERS LAND ON TOP 100 SNOW LIST

Clintar Landscape Management, TBG Environmental and Gelderman Landscape Services were listed on Snow magazine’s 2016 Top 100 list. The annual series recognizes North American snow and ice companies that had the highest revenues. The group of companies were

honoured at a special awards dinner at the Accredited Snow Contractors Association’s Executive Summit in Fort Myers,

Fla. last August. Clintar was third, TBG thirteenth and Gelderman thirty-fifth.

Visit us at Congress Jan 10 - 12, 2017 - Booth # 539 (just down the aisle from our usual spot)

Stam Nurseries Inc. 593836 Hwy 59, Burgessville ON N0J 1C0

Growing quality shade trees and evergreens P: 519-424-3350 F: 519-456-1659 info@stamnurseries.com

stamnurseries.com 14 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2016

NEW MEMBERS GEORGIAN LAKELANDS

OTTAWA

Georgian Bay Forest Products Inc

Jara Services (1786137 Ontario Inc)

Caledon Hydroseeding (1733699 Ontario Inc)

GOLDEN HORSESHOE

The Wood Source Inc

Connected Lawn Care Incorporated

The Grass is Greener Landscaping & Snow Removal

Thomas Cavanagh Construction

Daniel Renovations

Walsh Property Service

TORONTO

Jobswelldone Canada Inc

WINDSOR

Mike Argue 20 South Parry Rd Parry Sound, ON P2A 2Z1 Tel: 705-746-8491 Membership Type: Associate

Lonestar Landscaping

Jake Guindon 993 Garden Lane Millgrove, ON L0R 1V0 Tel: 289-983-6201 Membership Type: Interim

Urban Image Landscape and Design Inc Jeff Komadoski 4169 23rd St Vineland, ON L0R 2C0 Tel: 905-658-3193 Membership Type: Active

LONDON Baker’s Nursery Ltd

Todd Baker 77697 Porter’s Hill Line Bayfield, ON N0M 1G0 Tel: 519-482-9995 Membership Type: Active

Gord Johnston 5373 Faulkner Trail Stittsville, ON K2S 1B6 Tel: 613-836-0801 Membership Type: Active

Scott Shaver 6178 Mitch Owens Rd Manotick Station, ON K4M 1A6 Tel: 613-822-6800 Membership Type: Chapter Associate Mike Cavanagh 9094 Cavanagh Rd Ashton, ON K0A 1B0 Tel: 613-257-2918 Membership Type: Chapter Associate

Buxton Landscape Developments Inc Angelo Racippo 6 Buxton Rd Toronto, ON M3M 1Y5 Tel: 647-229-1031 Membership Type: Interim

Michael Kovach 125 Magnum Dr Schomberg, ON L0G 1T0 Tel: 647-333-0090 Membership Type: Active Christopher Reynolds 2041 Westfield Dr Mississauga, ON L4Y 1P2 Tel: 416-937-6702 Membership Type: Active

Daniel Ballantine 69 Longwood Ave Richmond Hill, ON L4E 4A6 Tel: 647-308-1763 Membership Type: Chapter Associate Bin Zhou 8 Captain Francis Dr Markham, ON L3R 9C7 Tel: 416-316-5627 Membership Type: Active

La Rose Garden Centre Domenic Lizzi 327 Bronte Street S Milton, ON L9T 4A4 Tel: 905-876-8282 Membership Type: Interim

Tony Colacci 51 Maitland St Brampton, ON L6S 3B5 Tel: 416-875-8069 Membership Type: Active

Scott Walsh 9 Glenfield Cres Brampton, ON L6S 1W1 Tel: 416-561-7322 Membership Type: Active

Bearpine Trees

Joel Pinsonneault 277 Joseph Ext Chatham, ON N7L 3H3 Tel: 519-359-6273 Membership Type: Interim

You are invited to join us at the 2017 CEREMONY AND PRESIDENT’S RECEPTION Landscape Construction, Maintenance and Design winners will be announced!

TUESDAY JANUARY 10, 2017

Plaza Ballroom, International Plaza Hotel 655 Dixon Road, Toronto AN INITIATIVE OF

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 15

EVENTS

why, and how to properly complete a WSIB accident report (Form 7). Registration opens at 11:45 a.m. Pre-register at horttrades.com/ottawa for your chance to win a pair of Senators tickets.

Find full details and registration links at horttrades.com/comingevents

November 29

Growers Fall Dinner Meeting

November 18

Waterloo Fall Freeze-Up Dinner and Dance

Bingemans, 425 Bingemans Centre Dr., Kitchener The Chapter’s social event of the year kicks-off with cocktails at 6 p.m. in the Embassy Room.

Enjoy dinner, dancing, door prizes and more.

Tickets are $140 per couple and will not be sold at the door. Purchase online at horttrades.com/ waterloo.

November 22

London Chapter Meeting

Lamplighter Inn, 591 Wellington Rd., London Learn how to treat customers how they want to be treated, from Andrew Wall of Sandler Training. Dinner and networking starts at 5:30 p.m. in the Chelsea Room. Meeting sponsored by HortProtect. Full details at horttrades.com/london.

Georgian Lakelands Chapter Awards of Distinction November 17

Windsor Chapter Meeting

Dominion Golf Course Chris Vasey from the Ministry of Labour will discuss what’s new in the world of health and safety at this free dinner meeting. St. Clair College students welcome. You must RSVP by Nov. 15 to Jay at jaytopgrade@hotmail.com.

November 22

Ottawa Chapter Meeting

Royal Canadian Legion, 3500 Fallowfield Rd., Ottawa This lunch meeting will teach employers when,

Teatro Conference Centre, 122 Chisholm Dr., Milton Save the date for this annual event that features networking, dinner and informative speakers from the growers sector. Check horttrades.com/ growers for details.

December 1

2016 Awards of Distinction

Casino Rama, Orillia A wine and cheese evening of recognition for members of the Georgian Lakelands Chapter will start with cocktails at 6:30 p.m., followed by the awards ceremony. For nominations and categories, check horttrades.com/ georgianlakelands.

December 7

Waterloo Chapter Meeting

Waterloo Knights of Columbus, 145 Dearborn Pl., Waterloo Meet with representatives from the tri-cities area to learn all about by-laws that affect your business. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Visit horttrades.com/waterloo for details.

Join your peers at the 2017 edition of the

Garden Centre NEW LOCATION with Congress Trade Show & Conference at the Toronto Congress Centre Wednesday, January 11

Featuring the Awards of Excellence Ceremony announcing Garden Centre program winners and recognizing 2016 Grower Award winners!

Tom Shay

Ceremony at 9:00 a.m. followed by workshops with Tom Shay 9:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and then lunch!

Register today at

LOcongress.com 16 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2016

Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation

2016 Annual Report

MANDATE

“To ensure a healthy future for the horticultural industry” WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 17

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 scholarships through interest generated on capital investments.

Officers and Directors President: Vice President: Secretary: Treasurer: Directors:

David Turnbull Mike Thomas Bob Allen Hank Gelderman Bob Allen Tony DiGiovanni Ben Kobes Mark Ostrowski Audrey Partridge John Peets Neil Vanderkruk Bob Wilton

Legacy Room

At Congress 2016, the Foundation hosted ‘The Legacy Lounge’ for pioneers of the green professions and LO members. Approximately 20 pioneers visited the lounge to talk about old times, what is happening now in the profession and what they hope will happen in the future. The profession thanks the pioneers for their continued support and contribution.

This year, the Foundation invited the Chapter boards and industry sector groups — 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 that sponsored the Legacy Lounge.

Supporting the Foundation

The Foundation would like to thank all donors. A donation is an easy and effective way to benefit Ontario’s horticultural community and is tax-deductible.

How to support the Foundation The Foundation developed a new information brochure, Support the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation.

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 you love.

Ways to support the Foundation:

Sponsorship Join the Foundation by making a pledge — an annual donation or a one-time gift.

Memorial Gift This is a meaningful way to honour a friend, loved one or professional contact and help support the industry.

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.

Stewardship Program Many Foundation sponsors share their expertise by speaking to groups and direct their honorariums to the Foundation.

18 ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2016 18 LANDSCAPE 2016 OTHF ANNUAL REPORT

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 full list of available scholarships can be found online at ohtf.ca. A Horticultural Scholarship Opportunities brochure is also distributed to all post-secondary and secondary schools.

The scholarship program continues to grow with the addition of some new individual scholarships in recent years, including: Bob and Ruby Allen Scholarship Fund, Russel and Karen Loney Fund, Peter Olsen Memorial Fund, O.J. Muller Memorial Fund, Unilock/Landscape Designers Fund, Crystal Lawn Care Scholarship Fund.

Another major scholarship program is the new Cullen Family Scholarship with a distribution of approximately $30,000 per year. This scholarship program was designed to encourage and inspire leadership qualities in students who have a passion and enthusiasm for the landscape horticulture industry. Candidates are selected by their peers and teachers. Individual amounts were assigned to each school offering horticultural programs.

2016 OHTF 2012ANNUAL AnnualREPORT Report This year, the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation distributed $49,400 in scholarships to students enrolled in horticultural programs across the province.

Congratulations to this year’s recipients Casey van Maris Memorial Scholarship ($1,000) Victoria Clipston Ridgetown College Horst Dickert Memorial Scholarship ($1,000) Brett Zylstra Niagara Parks Bob and Ruby Allen Membership Scholarship ($500) Scott Pollock Fanshawe College Tony DiGiovanni Scholarship ($1,000) Easton Klaudi Fanshawe College Graduate Research Assistant Program ($6,000) Tyson Jennett University of Guelph Unilock Collaborative Communications Scholarship ($1,000) Kira Burger University of Guelph Apprenticeship Program ($600) Carly Dalton Niagara Parks Stephen Ebels Niagara Parks Lauraine Niven Niagara Parks High School Program Scholarship ($1,000) Emily Kubesheskie Niagara College Jensen Maunder Fanshawe College Josephine McCormick Ridgetown College Melody Timmings Niagara College Horticulturist Scholarship ($500) Andrew Balasa Seneca College Faelyn Cassidy Humber College Jacob Cumbo Seneca College Jennifer Daws Humber College Benjamin Doerksen Humber College Macormick Foulds Niagara College Nicole Greshuk Seneca College Nicholas Hunt Fanshawe College Lena Kudryavtseva Durham College Caitlin McPhee Fanshawe College Alison Meeuse Fanshawe College Zora Miller Fanshawe College Eliza Ostrowska Humber College Matthew Planeta Humber College Rebekah Selland Fanshawe College Yuanyuan Shen Humber College Tabitha Taylor Humber College Shuo Xue Humber College

Cullen Family Scholarship Program ($2,000) Jeryn Mackey University of Guelph Landscape Architecture Kathleen Minkowski Niagara Parks Horticulture Rachael Radauskas Fanshawe College Landscape Design James Duncan Fanshawe College Horticultural Technician Eleni Scharf Algonquin College Horticultural Industries Bonnie Scott Humber College Landscape Technician Marco Parisi Seneca College Environmental Landscape Dylan Allen Niagara College Horticultural Technician Kristin Wammes Ridgetown College

Assoc. Dip. In Horticultural Lianne Hebert Apprenticeship Horticultural Technician Sibila Weldt Humber College, $4,000

Research Programs

The Foundation has also contributed to numerous research programs. In the 2015-2016 fiscal year, Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation contributed to the following projects: • O TRF ($10,000) — Integration of tools and turf species to promote sustainability in residential lawns.

Other Programs Receiving Foundation Funds • V ineland Research — Funding of new research chair position to assist industry.

• S kills Canada — Ontario Skills Canada competition awards for horticultural sector.

• Trees for Life — Highway of Heroes Living Tribute: tree planting project to along Highway 401 from Trenton to Toronto in memory of those who have lost their lives in military service.

• Veterans Memorial Parkway (VMP), London.

• Trees for Rouge Fund.

• JT Somerville Fund — Christmas tree industry

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 2016 OHTF ANNUAL REPORT 19 19

Introducing this year’s scholarship recipients Victoria Clipston Casey van Maris Memorial Scholarship, $1,000

Melody Timmings High School Scholarship, $1,000

Brett Zylstra Horst Dickert Memorial Scholarship, $1,000

Jacob Cumbo Horticulturist Scholarship, $500

Easton Klaudi Tony DiGiovanni Scholarship, $1,000

Jennifer Daws Horticulturist Scholarship, $500

A first-year student at the University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus, 18-year-old Clipston is studying Horticulture. “I really enjoy spending time outdoors and working with my hands and I am thrilled to have found a future embracing both in this amazing field.”

“I am very grateful to have been chosen for the Horst Dickert Memorial Scholarship and I would like to thank all those responsible for making that decision. I am truly honoured,” Zylstra said. “I am currently in my second year at the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture, with a special interest in the greenhouse industry.

Eventually I would like to open a greenhouse of my own, specializing in perennials, with a definite interest in promoting the use of native plants within the industry and making more of them available to the general public.”

Easton Klaudi is a second-year student enrolled in the Horticulture Technician program at Fanshawe College.

Realizing there is a major need for more green thumbs and professionals in the landscape/horticulture workforce, Easton decided to dive right into the greenhouse (classroom) straight from high school. His passion for native plants, animals, and the ecosystem drives him to pursue the many opportunities that are constantly appearing in Ontario and abroad.

Jensen Maunder High School Scholarship, $1,000

Jensen Maunder is a student in the Horticulture Technician program at Fanshawe College. Throughout high school Maunder took many courses that got him interested in the field of horticulture. “My past job at Conservation Halton also got me interested in the landscaping and horticulture industry,” he said. “I hope to one day own my own landscaping company and build beautiful landscapes for people to enjoy.”

Josephine McCormick High School Scholarship, $1,000

McCormick grew up in the horticulture field living on a pumpkin farm outside of Wellesley, Ont., where she continues to live. The farm grows a variety of squashes, gourds and other fall decorations. During the summer months, McCormick sells fruits and vegetables, including sweet corn, beans and tomatoes, at a road-side stand. McCormick also does some landscape maintenance jobs on the side. “I would like to thank the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation,” she said.

20 ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2016 20 LANDSCAPE 2016 OHTF ANNUAL REPORT

Born and raised in Guelph, Timmings love for horticulture began when she signed up for a class in high school. Timmings is now pursuing a career as a Greenhouse Technician while attending Niagara College. Timmings says the “scholarship has helped me start my life on my own.”

Jacob Cumbo is enrolled in the Environmental Landscape Management program at Seneca College. “My interest in the landscape/horticulture field is not only a byproduct of my upbringing, but is also rooted in an interest in the living environment,” he said. “Whether it was visiting the farm in Saskatchewan, going camping in Ontario or simply going to Nonno’s (tomato-filled) backyard, I was raised to appreciate the land and all it has to offer. I look forward to a rewarding career in the landscape/horticulture field and would like to thank all those who have helped me in this pursuit.”

Daws is currently in her final year of the Landscape Technician program at Humber College. She spent the past summer gardening for the City of Toronto — looking after the award-winning Peace Garden and Podium Green Roof at City Hall. Her goal is to master the art of creating landscapes that are not only beautiful and well-designed, but also sustainable and beneficial to pollinators and wildlife. “A sincere thank you to the Foundation for recognizing my enthusiasm for horticulture,” Daws said.

Nicole Greshuk Horticulturist Scholarship, $500

Nicole Greshuk is an Environmental Landscape Management student at Seneca College. “I absolutely love the program I am in, especially the horticultural aspects,” she said. “I’ve worked for the Town of Orangeville’s Parks and Recreation department for five years now, and this past summer I worked at the Royal Botanical Gardens. These opportunities have influenced my future in the industry in numerous ways. I am very grateful for having such amazing mentors, professors, and co-workers who have helped me get to where I am now and achieve what I have in the landscape and horticulture industry.”

Lena Kudryavtseva Horticulturist Scholarship, $500

Kudryavtseva is grateful the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation has recognized her academic achievements in the Horticulture Technician program at Durham College. She is excited to work in an industry that demands a love of nature, a dedication to life-long learning and a strong work ethic. Currently employed at the Evergreen Garden Market store and garden centre, Kudryavtseva plans to use her skills and knowledge to create and maintain green spaces that support ecological restoration and community building.

2016 OHTF 2012ANNUAL Annual REPORT Report Rebekah Selland Horticulturist Scholarship, $500

Marco Parisi Cullen Scholarship, $2,000

Yuanyuan Shen Horticulturist Scholarship, $500

Rachel Radauskas Cullen Scholarship, $2,000

Selland is currently in her second year of the Horticulture Technician program at Fanshawe College.

Through volunteer work, Selland has learned a lot about how flora influences not only our personal wellbeing, but also our societal well-being as well. After completing the program, Selland aspires to become involved with applying permaculture design principals to public spaces.

Shen is a second-year student in the Humber College Landscape Technician program where she combines design knowledge with horticulture practices. “It is a great honour for me to be a recipient of the 2016 horticulturist scholarship,” Shen says. “My dream is to become a landscape architect, to create beautiful sceneries for people to enjoy.”

Tabitha Taylor Horticulturist Scholarship, $500

A second-year landscape student at Humber College, Taylor grew up with a passion for gardening and creating beautiful spaces with flowers. After graduation, Taylor would like to work on municipal beautification projects.

Dylan Allen Cullen Scholarship, $2,000

Allen is a second-year student at Niagara College currently working towards completing his Landscape Technician diploma. After Allen completes his diploma, he plans to continue his education in business to further prepare him for the ever-changing and demanding landscape profession. Allen would like to thank the OHTF and Mark Cullen for their generous scholarship which will allow him the opportunity to continue his education and continue down the path towards his career. Allen would also like to thank his many instructors who were involved in the selection of the award.

Lianne Hebert Cullen Scholarship, $1,000

Working her second year in garden installations and maintenance, Lianne is part of the 2017 Class Horticulture Apprenticeship Program at Mohawk College.

With a background in graphic design, she is passionate about beautiful garden spaces. Herbert works in her hometown of Russell, Ont., where she joins her crew in improving residential and public gardens in the area. “Gardens are really all about the people,” Herbert says. “They should serve a purpose — be a place where people can reconnect with nature.”

Jeryn Mackey Cullen Scholarship, $2,000

Mackey grew up in Fort St. John, B.C., and is studying Landscape Architecture at the University of Guelph.

Growing up in a rural northern town, as well as working with a planning, engineering, and landscape architecture firm in western Canada has instilled Mackey with a passion for improving livability in small communities. Mackey would like to thank professors and the staff in the Landscape Architecture building and Urban Systems for encouraging and supporting her.

A second-year student in the Environmental Landscape Management program at Seneca College, Parisi roots are in Tuscany, Italy — a region widelyknown for its great artistic heritage and stunning natural environment. Parisi has found Canada to be a good place for a nature lover to live. “It has been an awesome experience so far and I look forward to starting my career after graduation,” Parisi said.

Rachel Radaukas is entering second-year of Landscape Design at Fanshawe College. “It is humbling to be recognized by the OHTF for my passion for landscape design,” she said. “I am grateful to be surrounded by teachers and peers that are so supportive and driven. It has been amazing to find an industry that combines my creativity and love for the outdoors.

My goal is to one day own a business that creates outdoor spaces that enhance quality of life, and encourage people of all ages to spend more time in nature.”

Eleni Scharf Cullen Scholarship, $2,000

Eleni Scharf is a Horticultural Industries student at Algonquin College. “I am beyond grateful to have been chosen for the Cullen scholarship,” she said. “I would like to thank my instructors and classmates for sharing their knowledge and encouraging enthusiasm for the horticulture industry, as well as Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation and Mark Cullen for supporting students. I look forward to a future in horticulture where I can further explore my passion, continue to build on the knowledge I have gained and hopefully inspire others to do the same.”

Bonnie Scott Cullen Scholarship, $2,000

Scott is a second-year student in Humber College’s Landscape Technician diploma program, with a background in organic and educational urban agriculture.

Scott is passionate about sustainable design, edible, and native plants, soil-building, and creating site-suited landscapes that benefit the people and wildlife who frequent them. Scott is interested in pursuing opportunities in landscape design, especially for public spaces and parks.

Kristin Wammes Cullen Scholarship, $2,000

A second-year student in the horticulture program at Ridgetown College, Wammes lives on a small farm about 20 minutes from the school. She hopes to either work with plant breeders at a wholesale nursery to develop exciting new varieties for the landscape professions, or become a landscape designer and create beautiful sceneries for people to enjoy. Wammes is very grateful to both Landscape Ontario and the Cullen family for providing so many great scholarships, commenting, “It is an awesome feeling to feel so supported from a great organization in the industry.”

See page 19 for a full list of 2016 scholarship recipients.

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 2016 OHTF ANNUAL REPORT 21 21

2016 OHTF 2012ANNUAL Annual REPORT Report OHTF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FUND BALANCES

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION Year End Year End Aug. 31, 2016 Aug. 31, 2015

General Fund Dunington-Grubb/Sheridan Nurseries Research Fund Growers’ Group Research Fund Ottawa Chapter Val Kirshner Scholarship Fund Scholarship Fund Casey van Maris Scholarship Fund IPM Symposium Research Fund Turf Research Fund Tony DiGiovanni Scholarship Fund John/Ruth Wright Scholarship Fund Horst Dickert Scholarship Fund J T Somerville Fund Trees For Life Fund Unilock/Designers Grp Fund 10K Trees for the Rouge Fund

Year End ASSETS Aug. 31, 2016 Current $6,355 $5,854 Bank $108,784

Accounts Receivable $54,709 $163,492 $245,815 $251,205

Long Term Investments $1,145,414 $362,443 $383,642 Investment-Vineland Consortium $57,711

Investment-Steeles Ave Property $0 Accrued Interest Receivable $99,988 $65,436 $64,644

$1,303,113 $78,245 $80,136

Total Assets $1,466,605 $32,646 $33,235

LIABILITIES Current $195,045 $202,525 Accounts Payable and Accrued Charges $15,030

($3,257) $6,688 Accumulated Fund Balances

Fund Balances $1,451,575 $100,020 $99,793

Total Liabilities/Funds $1,466,605

$9,734

$9,616

Cullen Family Fund

$7,144

$6,074

Crystal Lawn Care Fund Peter Olsen Fund OJ Muller Fund Perry Molema Fund Waterloo Chapter Scholarship Fund Totals

$113,954 $17,225 $131,179 $1,145,415 $57,711 $0 $53,776 $1,256,902 $1,388,081

$3,277 $1,384,804 $1,388,081

$59,548 $36,184

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS & FUND BALANCES

$2,734 $3,685 Year End Year End

Aug. 31, 2016 Aug. 31, 2015 $10,167 $12,748

REVENUES $99,575 $20,916 Interest/Gains (Losses) $46,212 $58,810

Miscellaneous $16 $395 $10,247 $10,123 Research Grants $50,000 $1,420 Donations $437,535 $382,091 $41,028 $33,044

Russel/Karen Loney Fund

Robert/Ruby Allen Fund

Year End Aug. 31, 2015

Total Revenue

EXPENSES $20,334 $20,580 Administration Fees/Exps

Disbursed as Research Grants $2,049 $2,025 Event/Sponsorship Exps Disbursed as Scholarships $28,305 $25,300 $9,028

$8,584

($902)

$0

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

$69,836 $68,204

$1,451,575 $1,384,804

$533,763

$442,716

$125,459 $80,000 $212,132 $49,400

$94,623 $30,000 $147,319 $73,500

$466,991

$345,443

$66,772 $1,384,804 $1,451,575

$97,273 $1,287,530 $1,384,804

For more information on the OHTF, including scholarship applications, supported research programs or to make a donation, visit ohtf.ca 22 ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2016 22 LANDSCAPE 2016 OHTF ANNUAL REPORT

INDUSTRY NEWS Premier Wynne visits Vineland

Dr. Viliam Zvalo discusses world crops research with Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne.

IPM Symposium ’17

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland) welcomed Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario, to its new Collaborative Greenhouse Technology Centre on Oct. 11.

Dr. Jim Brandle, Vineland’s CEO, toured the state-of-the-art facility with Premier Wynne, noting the pre-commercial greenhouse is one of the largest dedicated to horticultural research in North America and serves to accelerate commercial success for Ontario growers and producers.

Research scientists Dr. Viliam Zvalo and Dr. Michael Brownbridge highlighted Vineland’s world-class crops and biocontrol programs. In a greenhouse setting, the opportunity to have local year-round production of Asian eggplant will provide Canadian growers with increased market opportunities. Additionally, many greenhouse growers utilize biocontrol programs to tackle pests and reduce reliance on chemicals and the work at Vineland supports those initiatives.

Premier Wynne ended the visit with a roundtable discussion with stakeholders from across the Canadian horticulture spectrum on topics significant to the industry.

Continued >

SHEEHAN’S TRUCK CENTRE INC.

Monday January 9, 2017

A full day event including keynote speakers, lunch, supplier showcase and closing reception Landscape Ontario’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Symposium has been a uniquely respected event since 1965.

Attendees will earn 6 CECs from the IPM Council of Canada.

Held in conjunction with Congress ’17.

Visit LOcongress.com for complete details.

REGISTRATION FEE: $115 for a member or non-member, until December 16. $140 for a member or non-member, after December 16.

Admission to Congress ‘17 Trade Show Exhibits and the Tailgate Party is included in registration prices. The Congress Conference and other special events are a separate fee.

Net proceeds from the IPM Symposium are donated to lawn care research or a suitable alternative.

Sheehan’s Truck Centre offers one of the largest inventories of new and used trucks in Ontario.

We specialize in both Isuzu and Volvo new vehicles.

SHEEHAN’S TRUCK CENTRE INC.

4320 HARVESTER RD, BURLINGTON ON L7L 5S4 905-632-0300 Fax: 905-632-4557 Call us toll-free at 1-800-254-2859 Email us at info@sheehanstruck.com

www.heavytrux.com WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 23

CANADA BLOOMS TO CELEBRATE NATION’S 150TH

The Importance of Collaboration Monday January 9, 2017 A full-day event, with keynote speakers, lunch and closing reception.

Held in conjunction with Congress ’17.

Visit LOcongress.com for complete details.

REGISTRATION FEES : $140 for members and $190 non-members, before Dec. 16 $190 for members and $270 non-members, after Dec. 16 Admission to Congress 2017 Trade Show and Tailgate Party is included with registration.

The 2017 edition is presented with recognition of the OALA. Sessions qualify for OALA Continuing Education Credits.

An initiative of the Landscape Ontario Designer Sector Group.

Presented by

Grow For Gold KEYNOTE EVENT

Thursday, January 12, 2017 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

Held in conjunction with Congress ’17.

Visit LOcongress.com for complete details.

Join Olympic gold medalist Becky Kellar, as she highlights how business and sports are similar in many ways; there are going to be great days and bad days, and nothing goes as smoothly as you thought it would in the beginning … but it really is about the journey.

Presented in partnership with

24 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2016

There will be a whole lot of red and white at Canada Blooms 2017, as the country’s largest flower and garden festival celebrates Canada’s 150th birthday. With the theme, “Oh! Canada,” the festival is inviting design/ build professionals and floral experts to dazzle visitors with their unique interpretations of the true, north, strong and free. With some 30 gardens in the works, this year’s festival promises to one of the most beautiful and vibrant displays of the green professions to date.

“We are proud of the strong relationship we share with Landscape Ontario professionals and sector groups and look forward to another fantastic show,” said Terry Caddo, general manager of Canada Blooms. “One example of that connection will be the grower’s sector group plans to create a display to promote the benefits of using material grown in Ontario.

The display will incorporate interactive apple tree grafting provided by Winkelmolen Nurseries and they will have a different grower on-site each day to meet the public and answer questions. It really is an exciting opportunity to get their message out to the public.”

The annual flower and garden festival is set for March 10-19, 2017 at the Enercare Centre in Toronto, Ont. For more information, visit canadablooms.com.

SIMPLE SAFETY SOLUTIONS FOR SMALL BUSINESS

In honour of Small Business Week, Oct. 16-22, 2016, Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS) has provided free resources to help small business keep workers safe.

The resources include checklists and templates to help small business build strong health and safety programs and learn their legal requirements, infographic posters on the dangers that affect the landscaping profession and videos on how to prevent common accidents.

WSPS understands small business owners and managers face multiple demands on their time, have fewer internal resources than many larger businesses, and can’t afford to spend valuable time hunting for information. With those factors in mind, they are asking for help to spread the word by using the hashtag, #SimpleSafetySolutions and taking time to visit the many free resources designed specifically for small business on their website at wsps.ca/smallbusiness.

EXECUTIVE DESK Let’s talk about trees Tony DiGiovanni CHT LO Executive Director

I

n a previous article, Right Tree, Right Place, (July-Aug. 2016), I championed the judicial use of Norway maples and questioned the effectiveness, need for, and challenges related to seed zone policies.

As a quick recap: Norway maples have been deemed “invasive” and are now rarely specified as a street or landscape tree, despite the fact they do very well in urban areas. In the case of seed zone policies, I wondered aloud about the philosophy and science behind this forestry-based concept and how it might affect the nursery industry, which is historically based on a diametrically opposite notion of letting plants spread on their own.

My purpose in writing the article was to start a respectful dialogue. I received many positive comments from the nursery industry and many negative responses from the forestry sector. It is obvious the two camps need to talk in order to understand each other’s perspective. We are doing just that at the Growers Fall Dinner Meeting, Nov. 29 at the Teatro Conference Centre in Milton. Senior Ecologist and President of St. Williams Nursery and Ecology Centre, Allan Arthur, will talk about the science and

philosophy of seed zones. A representative from the Ministry of Transportation will review the success of a major highway project planted exclusively with seed zonesourced plants. Come join us for this stimulating meeting.

One of the negative responses to my article came from my friend, Ken Jewett, founder of a wonderful organization called Maple Leaves Forever. Jewett is a very effective and passionate advocate for the return of native maples. His organization (mapleleavesforever.com), encourages growers to increase the supply of native maples and provides financial incentives to those planting native maples. Ken’s work has made an amazing difference. I serve proudly on the Maple Leaves Forever Board and enthusiastically promote the use of native maples. One of the highlights of my career was working with Ken to convince the National Capital Commission to specify native maples on Crown land.

Ken’s concern was that my sentiments about the use of Norway maples would negatively affect the use of all native maples. I am taking this opportunity to clarify my view.

I prefer the use of native maples, even though I believe there is a place for many less invasive Norway maple cultivars — especially in landscape and street tree locations. I regret stating sugar maples are “invasive.” I used that term to describe the fact sugar maples are robust and spread well. All we have to do is look at our mag-

nificent Ontario forests in fall to witness how well sugar maples have done. At the end of Ken’s response he says, “Tony stated that sugar maples are invasive. Give me a break. NOT SO.” I agree with you Ken. I used the wrong word and I look forward to helping you achieve your mission to bring back native maples.

First anniversary for HOH

November marks the first anniversary of the official launch of the Highway of Heroes Living Tribute. The goal of this wonderful project is to plant 117,000 trees along Hwy. 401 from Toronto to Trenton, honouring every fallen Canadian soldier since Confederation. Our very generous membership has contributed resources, labour, equipment, trees and funding to help with the 3,000 trees planted so far. Mark Cullen, Chair of the initiative, provided a fantastic overview of our progress and mentioned the wonderful participation of LO members in a recent Toronto Star article (see gfl.me/h32z).

New campaign for donors

HOH have launched a new “Champion” campaign to coincide with Canada’s 150th birthday. For every $150 donation, you will receive a “150Tree Kit” that includes a small tree, official certificate and t-shirt.

Share a video or picture of where and why you planted your 150Tree using the hashtag, #150Tree.

Recently, we visited the Minister of Transportation. Steven Del Duca (MPP Vaughan), who enthusiastically became the first Champion. A day later, Burlington MPP Eleanor McMahon joined him. I am proud to say that I too became a Champion. For details, visit hohtribute.ca.

Tony DiGiovanni may be reached at tony@landscapeontario.com.

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PUBLIC RELATIONS

Toronto Botanical Gardens (TBG) On Oct. 23, we were involved in an allday, strategic planning meeting at the TBG. As you may know, the TBG will soon be embarking on a massive expansion plan in partnership with the City of Toronto. It is important for us to be a part of this process as it has potential for tremendous business and networking opportunities for our members. The great cities of the world all have viable botanical gardens/parks/greenspaces.

Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) The RBG in Hamilton will be the host for the Public Gardens of North America conference in 2017. Landscape Ontario has been asked to participate on the planning committee, which met on Oct. 24. This is an opportunity for us to network, learn and expand our thinking, and there could also be an opportunity for our Associate members from an exporting perspective.

On Oct. 14, LO created a new partnership with Tianjin, China — welcoming a government delegation from the brand new “eco-city.”

The power of partnerships

By Denis Flanagan CLD Manager of Membership and Public Relations

A

s a business owner, you are well aware of the value of forming partnerships with other companies, suppliers and communities. Your staff at Landscape Ontario also value similar partnerships — a value instilled in us by our executive director, Tony DiGiovanni (the Grand Master of networking). This month, I thought I would share some of the activities we have been involved with this fall with some of our numerous partners.

Master Gardeners of Ontario On Oct. 14, the Master Gardeners of Ontario held their provincial conference at the LO home office in Milton. Many of our members work with Master Gardeners at educational and community events. Here is a note from their president, Claudette Simms: Dear Cassandra and Kathleen, Thank you so much for allowing Master Gardeners of Ontario to hold their conference and board of directors meeting at Landscape Ontario this weekend. We had a really successful meeting on Saturday and enjoyed our lunch in the greenhouse — so nice as this year we didn’t need sweaters! And it allowed us to wander in the beautiful trial gardens. The ‘Night Sky’ petunia is stunning. Please extend our thanks to Robert and David who both welcomed us and kindly secured the premises when we were done.

26 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2016

Backyard Living Expo Organizers of this new consumer show being launched in April 2017 at the International Centre, met on Oct. 25 to discuss if, and how, Landscape Ontario might be involved. The show ties-in with LO’s strategic plan of educating consumers on the LO brand and promoting, “Why hire a professional?” In 2016, beginning with Canada Blooms, we are involved with numerous home and garden shows across the province.

CNE Board of Directors Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) held their board of directors meeting and AGM on Oct. 27. The CNE is one of the oldest and largest agricultural fairs in North America, and LO has a seat on its board. It is a tremendous opportunity that enables us to talk with other associations, businesses and politicians. As this new, progressive board moves forward, I strongly believe we have an opportunity to get our message out to the public (particularly young people) about the many benefits of the green professions.

The partnerships mentioned here are just a small glimpse of some of the external networking opportunities we are involved with on your behalf. Should you want more information, or if you are interested in participating or have other opportunities you think we should pursue, please contact me.

Denis Flanagan can be reached at dflanagan@landscapeontario.com or at 905-875-1805, ext. 2303.

MEMBERSHIP Customer service: The new marketing

By Myscha Burton Membership and Chapter Coordinator

A

s I write this column for November, I am 16 days away from my wedding. Cue the panic, giggles, tears and general swells of emotion. I’m sure some of you have certainly noticed my ‘bride brain’ over the last while. Don’t worry, I will return to my normal level of craziness shortly.

I’m sure my soon-tobe husband hopes so too!

One of the most challenging parts of planning our wedding was finding quality, professional vendors and suppliers to help make our day perfect. I now have an entirely different level of empathy for distraught homeowners who call us up to inform us their retaining wall fell on their car and they want us to help them find a professional member of Landscape Ontario to come and remedy the situation.

There are a tremendous amount of resources available for finding companies to provide you with whatever service you are looking for. Unfortunately, the screening process for many services is significantly less than the process for LO members to be listed on the landscapeontario.com website. During our search for wedding professionals, we found companies stating they “WILL NOT ANSWER QUESTIONS OVER EMAIL.” Another said they would be on vacation for over a month and we should try again later. One particular vendor stands out for their very unique way of attracting clients. They were very quick to respond and spent a lot of time writing their responses.

Their key selling phrase of the “highlights” their company had to offer were never really explained, and only referred to “the many options” they had available. We were never told what those were, despite asking multiple times. Before we were even given a final quote, they lost us as a possible client because of the reply, “As to whether this is in your budget depends on how much you value the DJ’s contribution to your wedding, how much you want

your guest to have fun... If you can afford this wedding venue, which you clearly can, then you should be able to afford any DJ service.” Excuse me?

Homeowners, just like bridezillas, are looking to hire someone who understands their needs, vision, budget and most importantly, caters to their customer. Whether that first connection is an email, phone message or a face-to-face meeting, customers demand courtesy from start to finish. If something happens that gives them a questionable feeling, such as not answering questions, or not replying to emails, they will likely look elsewhere. First impressions have a tremendous impact, so make sure yours is unforgettable.

Here are some key things customers will be looking for: • Is your website up to date?

• Is the Landscape Ontario logo on your website to identify you as a belonging to a unique group of professionals?

• Do you have a company profile on the LO website where homeowners can find you?

• Is your company an Awards of Excellence winner?

• Are there LO decals and stickers on your vehicles and equipment?

• Do you share positive feedback from

customers and show them photos of your work?

• Are customer inquiries answered in a timely and friendly manner?

• What do Google and other sites say about your company?

You never know who you’re making an impression on, and a good attitude is everything. Happy customers will boast to their friends about the quality of your work and your ability to transform a space, but they will also do the same if a job is not done with the same consistency and quality as promised. Even on difficult days, going that extra mile makes a huge difference.

Whether that means answering emails, hand-holding a weary client, or updating a client on a revised schedule, all of these small tasks contribute to customer satisfaction and ultimately, your bottom line.

In addition to the ‘Green for Life’ decals and stickers, LO has many promotional materials available to members, including a brochure on why someone should hire an LO member and informative press releases you can customize with your company name. Being a member of Landscape Ontario is a marketing tool for you that shows potential customers you are among the best in the province. It’s time to showcase that attractive selling feature.

Promotional resources are available at horttrades.com under the ‘Resources and Services’ tab by selecting ‘Green for Life Initiative’ or ‘Marketing’ options.

Myscha Burton can be reached at 1-800-265-5656, ext. 2333 or myscha@landscapeontario.com.

Your online presence and marketing materials say a lot about your company to potential customers. Take time to ensure they are all up-to-date.

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 27

APPRENTICESHIP Employers explain benefits of apprenticeship

By J. Alex Gibson LO Eastern Ontario Apprenticeship Program Development Coordinator

F

or the past six months, Landscape Ontario has promoted the Apprenticeship Program and its many benefits to employers and staff across the province. Apprenticeship is a predominantly on-the-job training program that is run through the Ontario Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development (formally the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities) and the Ontario College of Trades. The program has a number of financial incentives and training benefits and costs employers virtually nothing to participate. In addition, the LO Apprenticeship Coordinator supports employers and employees with the application process and throughout the program.

To better understand apprenticeship and its many benefits, we contacted four employers from across Ontario, who vary in size and location, to tell us why they participated in the program.

As an employer, what are your top three reasons for participating in the Apprenticeship Program?

The most common response to this question pertained to training and increasing staff on-the-job knowledge. As our profession grows, it will become even more important that staff are confident and com-

Jerry Hakkers

petent while on the job site. Thus, costeffective and profession-based training will become more widely used and accessed.

The Apprenticeship Program helps prepare employees with trade-knowledge and provides the hands-on skills needed to be successful.

The program also has a number of additional benefits that employers have noted.

Jerry Hakkers of Sifton Properties in London sees the program as an advantage for employee retention and a means of growth for their company. Scott Wentworth of Wentworth Landscapes in Picton and Noreen Haunton of Let’s Landscape Together in Burlington identify the program as a means of promoting the industry and creating an incentive for new staff who may be interested in joining the landscaping profession.

Richard Rogers, formerly of RJ Rogers Landscaping in Ottawa sees apprenticeship as a benefit for customers — highlighting a company’s commitment to improving and developing its workforce to deliver a quality product.

As government and business tenders move towards stricter regulations, the Apprenticeship Program will help develop companies and allow them to compete and meet the required necessities, at little to no cost.

What has been your experience with the Apprenticeship Program?

A year ago, during a program review, Landscape Ontario identified the difficult registration process as one of the key factors for low apprenticeship participation.

Employers found the process confusing, time consuming and inherently difficult. As

Richard Rogers

28 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2016

Noreen Haunton

a result, LO hired an Apprenticeship Program Coordinator to help ease these difficulties and support registrations.

Three of the four companies surveyed had previously registered apprentices, and encountered some form of barrier during the process. With the new apprenticeship application process, employers have experienced less wait time and less confusion.

Scott Wentworth stated, “It’s a one-stop shop for the Apprenticeship Program. Layers of complication have been removed.”

Jerry Hakkers stated, “With the coordinator, the process is much easier.” Unlike the other companies, Noreen Haunton was new to the Apprenticeship Program. “Landscape Ontario has really been an asset in the paperwork and answering questions right away,” she said.

With the program rapidly expanding, Landscape Ontario will continue to support its members across the province.

In two sentences or less, what would you say to an employer who might be thinking about registering an apprentice?

“This is a great way to promote our industry and retain employees,” responded Jerry Hakkers.

“Growing your staff knowledge never hurts a company or an employee. It’s a great benefit to both staff and company growth,” said Noreen Haunton.

“Registering an employee will validate the landscaping industry and provide employers with skilled and knowledgeable employees. Consistency throughout the industry and in-class instruction will provide apprentices with knowledge of all the aspects of landscaping,” offered Scott Wentworth.

“It is a no-brainer, developing an employee during the winter season at very little if no cost,” replied Richard Rogers.

For more information on apprenticeship, contact Alex Gibson at jagibson@ landscapeontario.com or 613-809-5093 or visit horticulturetechnician.ca and check out our 1-minute promo video on YouTube.

Scott Wentworth

UNDERGROUND WORLD

From community events to fundraisers, many organizations rely heavily on the contributions of both members and volunteers to make events possible.

The importance of volunteers and members

By Terry Murphy CLM

W

hat drives an organization?

Recruiting new members is always challenging however, the longevity and prosperity of a not-for-profit, Non-Government Organization (NGO) relies on it. Developing a large and active NGO membership roster is what we, here at the Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance (ORCGA) call “critical mass.” Achieving critical mass generally means you can accomplish all objectives on your list. Another important challenge for an NGO is a strong volunteer network.

Both go hand-in-hand in contributing to the success of an organization. Landscape Ontario (LO) has achieved this success already and it is something the ORCGA is striving to achieve as well.

Volunteers are like gold

Volunteers also play a vital role for achieving critical mass. Most NGOs depend on volunteers to get things done.

A limited budget and ever-present cost controls make a vibrant volunteer net-

work a treasured asset. Ask yourself these questions: When was the last time you volunteered for any group, charitable organization or local community effort? How many hours a month do you help any organization of which you are a member? I’m guessing it’s not that many.

Some people might not even consider volunteering for a group to which they belong, but for those who do, it is a huge benefit to the organization and extremely rewarding for those who volunteer.

Engaging with members

Organizations like LO and the ORCGA need a good volunteer network to facilitate their many committees that require the knowledge, expertise and commitment of their members. Shared information, past experiences and current knowledge are vital for a committee to function effectively.

Most members have a great deal to offer, but the key is getting those members out to participate. Many will rarely take time to share their time and expertise. I have often wondered what could be accomplished if every single person who joined an organization then committed to serving on only one committee or volunteering for just one single event. The organization would be extremely well off.

The ORCGA structure

The ORCGA has three key committees: Reporting and Information (ie: the DIRT Report); Events and Damage Prevention Training (DPT); and Best Practices, together with 13 Geographic Councils.

All of these groups require volunteers in order to function smoothly. The ORCGA also requires a number of volunteers to assist with major events such as the Locate Rodeo, annual golf tournament, Damage Prevention Training Programs, Symposium and spring Dig Safe Events.

The ORCGA staff consists of Ian Munro, President and CEO; Kim Sheppard, Accountant; Jennifer Parent, Manager, Growth, Councils and Membership Services and Keith Begley, Manager Activities, Logistics and Programs. This staff of four manages all activities of the organization.

The president represents our industry at functions and manages high level activities. Our accountant handles all financial functions and reporting of financial statements. Our membership services manager focuses on membership growth, servicing new members, the Geographic Councils; and our activities, logistics and programs manager handles all major events and meetings. As you can see, everyone is challenged for time! Without the assistance from volunteers, it would be impossible to get things done with staff alone. In addition, three of our staff members have been with for us less than a year. This also creates additional challenges.

Volunteers to make a difference

All associations, especially NGOs, need a steady influx of new members and volunteers to complete their various activities that work towards carrying out their mission or strategic plan. Why not consider calling your local ORCGA Geographic Council member or head office at 1-866-446-4493 to see what volunteers are needed in your area. You will be pleasantly surprised at how you will be received and how much you can help. You will become energized at what you can do to help towards accomplishing the ORCGA’s goals and targets, not to mention the personal satisfaction that comes from volunteering.

New members are the life blood of any association and volunteers are recruited from within. You have two opportunities to help us out; join as a new member, or signup as a volunteer. In both cases you will be very welcomed.

Terry Murphy can be reached at tvmurphy@ca.inter.net.

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 29

PROSPERITY PARTNERS Improving your customer’s experience

By Jacki Hart CLM Prosperity Partners Program Manager

E

very reader of this magazine has customers. Most have employees, a website, social media accounts, multiple company email addresses and voice mail boxes and employees who mostly work out of our sight for most of their day. For most, this list continues: branded trucks, a place of business, company uniforms worn on personal time, the chatter of staff while working on customer sites, word of mouth opinions, peer referrals from related businesses and more.

These elements comprise your brand.

They represent the sum total of not only your customers’ experiences, but those of your potential customers as well. When you manage your brand well, you are clearly communicating what your company does and how, and why, people trust you.

To determine how well you are intentionally managing your customers’ experience, here are a copule of questions: In what ways do you strategically manage all of the touch points your customers experience with your business?

There are things your customers see and things your customers hear. There are also things your customers know about your brand and how reliably it could solve a problem for them or in some way, improve their life. All of these touch points represent opportunities. Opportunities are yours to either seize, or lose. Opportunities can elevate or destroy the depth of loyalty your customers have with your company and brand.

As we approach the winter ahead, in what ways will you work to strategically improve and manage the experiences your business creates? What were the root causes of service failures in 2016?

What were the crowning moments of glory?

Here are some more questions to help clarify your thinking: • How unique is my offering/product line/ service?

• Is my company delivering an appealing, unique message?

• Am I staying current with my social media/ advertising/blog messages?

• Do I have an appealing, up-to-date, easily recognizable logo and name?

• How consistently am I communicating my company culture and approach across all of my marketing platforms? (ie: website, Facebook, printed media, verbal and email communications, etc.).

• In what ways are customers engaging (or

not engaging) as ambassadors of my brand?

• How clear is my value proposition?

In what ways is my brand solving a problem? Is it unique? Does it provide an emotional benefit?

• In what ways am I making and keeping promises? In what ways am I breaking them?

In order to figure out where you need to create new processes, messaging, behaviour standards, communication policies and practices, make sure you also take an inventory of what is working really well.

Celebrate success. Consider sending a brief survey to your customers (if you don’t already ask at the end of each transaction). They will usually tell you things you were only able to guess about. Ask them how you could improve. Ask them why they chose you. Ask if they will refer you. Thank them for their input, then get back to work.

Your employees can also be a great source for feedback, especially if they are frustrated with cumbersome processes, inefficient scheduling/routes, or requests from customers that are beyond their permission to follow through on.

In next month’s column, we’ll take a look at your employees’ experience of your company and potential strategies you can deploy to improve this crucial area of business management.

Jacki Hart may be contacted at peertopeer@landscapeontario.com.

Warm Up Monday Session at Congress 2017 Don’t miss the first session of the Peer to Peer Workshop season. Join fellow business owners on Jan. 9 for a fun day of networking and blast through the session topics we tackled together in 2016: • Managing Your Brand • Succession Planning • Strategic Planning • Hiring and Keeping Millennials • Effective Delegating

Come armed with your biggest success story of 2016 and the challenges you want to tackle most in 2017. Take part in the first Prosperity Partners Speed Dating Challenge, where peers will go face-to-face, vying for the best solutions to each other’s business challenges.

You will leave the session energized and armed with great advice to launch your business to new heights in 2017.

Register online at LOcongress.com

Join the Peer Network today! Visit horttrades.com/p2p to join the Linked in group or email info.peertopeer@landscapeontario.com

30 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2016

CLASSIFIEDS

Invest

in our future

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. 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. Post employment ads for free at landscape.jobs.

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