March/April 2016 Green for Life magazine

A Landscape Alberta Nursery Trades Association member publication

Member Job Listings Start the Year Strong

March/April 2016 Vol. 4, No. 2

REBATES! Brandt is celebrating $1billion in annual revenue and we’re thanking our customers by offering special rebates throughout the year.

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Advancing the professional landscape industry.

MANAGING EDITOR | Joel Beatson PRODUCTION & EDITING | Kyla Hardon ADVERTISING | Erynn Watson Landscape Alberta Green for Life is a professional publication for the landscape trade in Alberta.

Editorial and Advertising Landscape Alberta 200, 10331 - 178 Street NW Edmonton, AB T5S 1R5 P: 780-489-1991 F: 780-444-2152 admin@landscape-alberta.com Landscape Alberta does not assume 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 herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Landscape Alberta or its members.

Material may not be reprinted from this magazine without the consent of Landscape Alberta.

March 1, 2016 Landscape Alberta Spring Workshop Coast Edmonton Plaza, Edmonton, AB http://laspringworkshop2016.eventbrite.ca March 1, 2016 Landscape Alberta Awards Dinner Yellowhead Brewery, Edmonton, AB http://laspringworkshop2016.eventbrite.ca March 11 – 20, 2016 Canada Blooms Enercare Centre, Toronto, ON www.canadablooms.com March 14 – 18, 2016 International Green City Conference Vancouver, BC www.cnla-acpp.ca/greencity March 17, 2016 Landscape Saskatchewan Spring Workshop Double Tree by Hilton, Regina, SK http://lsspringworkshop2016.eventbrite.ca

ISSN No: 1929-7114 (print) ISSN N0: 1929-7122 (online) Landscape Alberta Board of Directors Chris Brown, CLM, JLG, CSO, CRS Brown Landscape Services Ltd., Chair Brian Gibson, Green Drop Lawns Ltd., Vice Chair Steve Wheatcroft, B. Comm, ULS Maintenance & Landscaping Inc. Cody Brown, Tree to Tree Nurseries Ltd. Jeff Oudyk, CSLA, AALA, JLG, Land Tec Landscape Contractors Ltd. Jordan Voogd, JLG, Sunstar Nurseries Ltd. John van Roessel, CLM, CLT, JVR Landscape (2006) Inc. Anita Heuver, JLG, Eagle Lake Nurseries Ltd. Landscape Alberta Staff Joel Beatson, CAE, CLM, Executive Director joel.beatson@landscape-alberta.com Marnie Main, Member Services Director member.services@landscape-alberta.com Erynn Watson, Member Services Assistant erynn.watson@landscape-alberta.com

On the Cover Keukenhof Gardens, The Netherlands Photo Credit: Nigel Bowles Member Job Listings, Page 11 Start the Year Strong, Page 7

Valerie Stobbe, Trade Show Coordinator valerie.stobbe@landscape-alberta.com Kyla Hardon, Communications Coordinator kyla.hardon@landscape-alberta.com Cheryl Teo, Bookkeeper accounting@landscape-alberta.com

Follow us on Twitter @landscapeab

Green for Life March/April 2016 I 3

Industry and Association News...

Bill C-6 Update The controversial Bill 6 that will bring OHS, WCB and new employment standards to Alberta Farms was passed in early December. Landscape Alberta has been in regular contact with the government as well as our partners in agriculture.

Industry consultation will be taking place over the coming months, and Landscape Alberta will be involved in this process.

ReTree YYC Continues The City of Calgary will be continuing its successful ReTree YYC campaign in 2016. This program is designed to help recover from the events of “Snowtember” in 2014 by providing public education, as well as restoring trees on both public and private property. This year, ReTree YYC will plant more than 10,000 trees in 25 communities across the city.

More information is available at www.calgary.ca/trees.

We’ve already asked the government to consider the timing of changes and to ensure plenty of lead time for regulation changes that will affect cost of operations. We’ve also warned them about the cumulative impacts of these and other regulatory changes to small business.

Canadian Landscape Standard on Track for Spring Launch The steering committee working on the Canadian Landscape Standard has confirmed that the publication is still on track for a March launch. The committee, made up of CNLA and Canadian Society of Landscape Architect members, have been working hard to create a detailed and accurate national standard that can be used by businesses across the country.

The Canadian standard will be based on the BC Landscape Standard, with regional variations, making it an invaluable resource. Keep an eye out for more information this spring.

Certified Landscape Designer Grandfathering Provision The Certified Landscape Designer (CLD) designation recognizes that potential Designer candidates might have extensive industry experience or are already members of other landscape design organizations. Because of that, these candidates are eligible to apply to the program provision instead of writing the formal exam, and submitting a portfolio for review.

Candidates with at least 12 years of design experience are now eligible to apply for the “Grandfathering” provision under the CLD designation. Likewise, any candidates with full membership to a professional landscape design certification are eligible for application as well.

In addition to providing proof of education and work experience, candidates are also required to submit two sponsorship letters, signed by current CLDs, validating their submission. Once the application is approved, candidates will appear in front of the Review Committee to discuss three relevant design projects during which they played a significant part. To learn more you can visit www.certifiedlandscapedesigner.com. Any questions can be directed to Colin Vince at colin@cnla-acpp.ca or Claudia Santos at claudia@cnla-acpp.ca or by phone at 1-888-446-3499.

Mark's Discount Card Valid Until April 2016 Remember that your Mark's (and Imagewear) discount card is valid through April 2016. After that, members will need to contact CNLA for an updated card. www.cnla-acpp.ca/marks 4 I Green for Life March/April 2016

New Mobile App from the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency launched a new mobile app that allows individuals to access pesticide labels that have been registered for use in Canada.

This app will help homeowners, farmers, industry, and provincial and federal organizations look up specific details of the pest control product they are using from the convenience of their smartphone or tablet. The most up-todate health and safety information will be right at their fingertips with this new user friendly tool.

Users will be able to save their searches as well as download product labels to their “Favourites” for access even when they are offline. Favourites will also auto-update whenever users access them when online. Pesticide labels can be searched based on various factors including product name and active ingredient. The directions found on pesticide labels are important as they contain detailed explanations on proper product use and what precautions should be taken to avoid injury.

The app, developed by the Government of Canada, is called “Pesticide Labels” and can be downloaded from the Apple Store, Google Play and Amazon.

New Resources for Members Two new resources for members have recently launched.

Both websites aim to help members and industry with their

HR challenges. Landscape Alberta Members can post job listings for free. Check them out!

• http://greencareerscanada.com/ • https://landscape.jobs/

International Green Cities Conference The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) invites all those with an interest in improving cities to experience the fusion of green and urban at the 2016 AIPH International Green City Conference and Tours.

AgriMarketing Program - Small and Medium-sized Enterprise Component (SME) - Export Markets The AgriMarketing SME program provides cost-shared, non-repayable contributions of up to $50,000 per year for companies to undertake export market development activities, including activities in the United States. It is available to SME’s operating in the agriculture, agri-food, and fish and seafood sectors having fewer than 250 employees and annual sales not exceeding $50 million.

Organised by the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) and AIPH, the event takes place in Vancouver from 14 – 18 March 2016, and gives delegates a chance to see innovations in urban green infrastructure and planning on a global scale.

Conference Chairman and CNLA Board Member, Bill Hardy said “We are proud to be hosting the next AIPH International Green City Conference and bringing together AIPH and ELCA to promote what greening cities can really achieve. We look forward to welcoming guests from all over the world.”

More information is available at www.cnla-acpp.ca/greencity.

For detailed information on the program including how to apply, please read the Program Applicant Guide available at: http://www.agr.gc.ca/eng/?id=1397220184548 . Further information can also be obtained by calling 1-877-246-4682 or by e-mail at md-dm@agr.gc.ca. This program ends March 31, 2018.

Nursery and Greenhouse Tour – Israel Join John & Kelly Schroeder of Valleybrook Gardens on a horticultural tour of Israel in October 2016. Israel is a world leader in irrigation technology, and an exporter of a range of horticultural products. The group will visit greenhouses, garden centers and nurseries, however there will be plenty of time to enjoy the incredible culture, history and sights of this fascinating country. Tour dates are October 24 through November 7, with an optional 2 day extension to visit Petra in Jordan. For more information, contact John at js@valleybrook.com.

Garden Days Canada’s annual celebration of gardens and gardening takes place on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday of Father’s Day weekend. This year’s dates are June 17 to 19.

If your garden centre, hort society or garden club is planning an event in June, consider holding it during Garden Days. You will benefit from the support of noteworthy national and provincial spokespeople, and the vibrant media relations and social media programs that support this initiative. All you need to do to be part of this national program is register your event or activity, at no charge, at www.gardendays.ca.

Green for Life March/April 2016 I 5

Solar Power on your Farm?

Growing Forward 2 has a program for On-Farm Energy Management that focuses on Solar Photovoltaics for primary agricultural producers. The program looks to improve environmental stewardship by increasing investments in clean energy. It also seeks to improve energy management. The fund will cover up to $50,000 per applicant. Projects must be tied to the grid, approved under Alberta micro-generation legislation, positioned to maximize sun, have manufacturer warranties in place and be purchased between April 1, 2013 to March 31, 2018 (retroactive included). For more information on this program, visit http://bit.ly/1Q5v9io.

Landscape OnSites As a supervisor or owner you have an obligation to communicate to each of your employees how to work safely and effectively. CNLA’s On-Site sessions have been designed to provide the framework for short, basic training sessions to develop an informed well-rounded employee.

Landscape It's your responsibility to practice what you O n S i t e s preach and be a good role model for both safety and work habits on the job site.

s

ning session

on the job trai

proud sponsor

Download your free copy today!

Visit www.cnla-acpp.ca and click on “Landscapers”.

Welcome to our

New Members

Caliber Landscaping Ltd. Henry Bakker Box 380, Coalhurst, AB T0L 0V0 (403) 634-0592 Fax: (403) 380-3075 henry@caliberlandscaping.ca www.caliberlandscaping.ca FBC - Farm Business Consultants Vince Ho 150, 3015 5th Avenue NE Calgary, AB T2A 6T8 (403) 444-1891 Fax: (403) 735-5087 vho@fbc.ca www.fbc.ca Kenna’s Lawn Care Ltd. Diana Keenas Box 42, Site 17, RR 2, Strathmore, AB T1P 1K5 (403) 512-3219 keenas@telus.net Landscapers by Nature Ltd. Brandon Comstock RR6 Site 1 Box 24, Calgary, AB T2M 4L5 (403) 971-2024 info@landscapersbynature.com www.landscapersbynature.com

SG Landscaping Ltd. Vincent O'Connor #27 Diamond Avenue Spruce Grove, AB T7X 3B2 (780) 962-8868 Fax: (780) 962-1889 voconnor@sglandscaping.ca www.sglandscaping.ca Tessier Enterprise Inc. Ghitta and Stephane Tessier 1503, 26313 TWP 531 A Acheson, AB T7X 5A3 (587) 805-1891 Fax: (587) 805-1891 info@tessierenterprise.ca www.tessierenterprise.ca The Black Dirt Company Darren Hinkel 300 Saskatchewan Avenue Spruce Grove, AB T7X 3A5 (780) 964-8220 Fax: (780) 962-8215 info@blackdirtcompany.com www.blackdirtcompany.com Turf Tech Sod & Snow Removal Ltd. Gord Phelps 227 25 Avenue NW Calgary, AB T2M 2A6 (403) 605-2488 Fax: (403) 253-4655 turftechsodandsnow@telus.net www.sodsnow.com Westlawn Funeral Home & Cemetery Jason Lauritsen 10210 163 Street Edmonton, AB T5P 4X3 (780) 484-7532 Fax: (888) 341-1796 jlauritsen@arbormemorial.com www.arbormemorial.ca 6 I Green for Life March/April 2016

Start the Year Strong

By Jeffrey Scott

Starting the year strong means getting everyone on the same page, motivated to pull in the same direction as you. Here are eight steps to ensure a successful 2016.

1. DECIDE how you want to do business, and then get everyone on the same page.

You want to set the tone for how your business operates.

What is your service philosophy towards clients? What are your Dos and Don’ts policies that are sacrosanct and must be followed for your company to run seamlessly? Lastly, what are your company values by which you will run your business?

Setting the tone for these at the beginning of the year reminds old employees and on boards new employees to your “company way” of doing business.

2. BREAKDOWN annual sales targets into specific goals for salespeople and crew leaders.

Your budget is based on a set of revenue and sales goals: the minimum revenue goals you need to “sell and build” to reach your minimum profit - that both your sales people and your crew need to understand and be prepared to execute.

Your sales people also need to set stretch sales goals. Keep in mind that not all salespeople will hit their stretch goals (or even their expected goals) each year, so you don’t want to plan for perfection; you need wiggle room in your cumulative goals, so you still hit your annual revenue budget even when not all sales goals are hit.

3. MOTIVATE employees by showing them how to get a raise and a bonus (incentive).

Regarding base pay: Every employee should know what they need to do to get a raise; they should have specific learning goals related to their career ladder that they need to achieve to get a raise.

Regarding a bonus: Once every employee knows their goals, show them what’s in it for them. Encourage them to think like an owner by rewarding them for hitting benchmarks that also reward the company. A good incentive system turns working into a game - and who doesn’t like playing and winning a game?

4. STEER all employees to the personal goals they need to achieve to meet expectations.

Related to the point before, every single employee plays an important role (cog) in the machinations of your company.

They need direction and feedback so they know how they are doing, what they should keep doing, and what they should both stop and start doing. Sitting down with them one-onone, a few times throughout the year will keep them focused on their own goals and align them to larger goal of the company.

5. MANDATE communication expectations, so the whole team stays on track even as the spring rush hits.

You need a communication system of daily, weekly and Green for Life March/April 2016 I 7

monthly communication in order to keep your entire company on track. The daily communication is the most important.

For example, at the crew level, mandate how communication needs to happen each day to make your company work smoothly.

• A daily huddle to kick-start the morning.

• Crew checking in before the end of the day, altering the boss to their status.

• Administrative work completed and handed in and at end of day (where applicable.)

Decide your daily, weekly and monthly communication strategy, and stick to it.

Your complete source for landscape supplies CONTRACTOR ORDER DESKS Fort McMurray: (780) 799-3757 Edmonton: (780) 466-5216 Red Deer: (403) 309-0600 North Calgary: (403) 650-6228 South Calgary: (587) 226-9009 or (587) 227-3231 Lethbridge: (403) 327-0808 Soils | Mulch | Aggregates | Paving Stones | Retaining Walls | Natural Stone Edging | Packaged Products | Pond Supplies | Tools | Landscape Fabric

6. RESET client service standards.

It is easy to forget that the client is the most important factor in the rush of work in the spring. Sit down with your clients this winter, invite a group for lunch, and have a conversation with them - and record it - and use their feedback to motivate and focus your troops.

Find out from their perspective what you do well, where you can improve, and if there are additional services they wish you offered.

7. ENSURE your employees live a culture of constant, neverending improvement, so the whole team is engaged to "win" in 2016.

Do your employees feel safe to suggest better ways of working?

Do they feel safe to tell you the tools they need? If you want to engage their hearts you need to engage their minds; they need to feel the freedom to give feedback, make requests, and comment on things they see that are not in alignment with the company goals and values. Free flowing two-way communication is critical to a healthy growing company.

8. CLARIFY the owner’s role in day-to-day operations to ensure this plan stays on track.

Lastly, the owner needs to make it clear to him/her self what the role is they need to play. To be a successful leader of a company think “marching band leader”; you can’t lead the band and be playing the trumpet in the band; and worse, you can’t be playing multiple instruments in the band at the same time while you are also trying to lead it. You have to decide your specific role, and delegate the non-crucial activities to your 2nd’s in command and even further down the line to your forepeople, supervisors, and office staff.

Jeffrey Scott, MBA, author, business coach, hall-of-fame consultant, is the expert in growth and profit maximization in the lawn & landscape industry. He grew his company into a successful $10 million enterprise, and he's now devoted to helping others achieve profound success. Over 6000 read his monthly newsletter. To sign up go to www.jeffreyscott.biz. He facilitates the Leader’s Edge peer group for landscape business owners; his members achieved a 27% profit increase in their first year. www.GetTheLeadersEdge.com.

8 I Green for Life March/April 2016

Industry leading workshops for landscape, greenhouse, nursery, garden centre, turf and tree care professionals.

Plus a 250 booth trade show!

For more information or to book exhibit space:

1-800-378-3198 | www.greenindustryshow.com Green for Life March/April 2016 I 9

SUPERIOR POWER IN A COMPACT SIZE. Regardless of space constraints, the CASE CE CX80 excavators are able to perform landscaping, demolition, industrial, or construction jobs that require strength without a giant footprint. Find these and other dependable units at your local CASE CE Rocky Mountain Equipment dealer.

DEPENDABLE IS WHAT WE DO.

ROCKYMTN.COM

10 I Green for Life March/April 2016

LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE Landscape Plus is located in Strathmore, AB. Key Responsibilities: • Perform weekly mowing, weeding, garbage collection, and trimming at a variety of locations • Maintain equipment on a regular basis Skills and Abilities: • Time management skills • Ability to work both independently and with a team • Flexible working hours including occasional Saturday work • Eye for detail • Excellent oral and written communication Wages: Starting at $18.00 per hour Qualifications: • 2 years experience in landscape maintenance • Alberta Class 5 drivers licence and a safe driving record Please email landscapeplus1@yahoo.ca or fax (403) 934-6207 your cover letter and resume.

Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo

Position: Arborist II, Perm full-time Primary job duties: • Provide technical knowledge on tree assessment • Provide direction to parks staff in the completion of related activities.

• Assist and perform all arboriculture activities including, but not limited to: climbing, rigging, cabling, operation of aerial bucket truck, chipper, stump cutter, various mechanized tree-cutting tools, front end loader, insecticides, monitoring and treatment of pests.

• Inspect trees and shrubs for insects, disease or other health and safety problems while doing routine maintenance on trees and shrubs.

• Perform other related duties as required.

Qualifications: • Diploma in Forestry, Arboriculture or a related field combined with five (5) years of urban tree care experience or technical forestry related duties OR • High School Diploma or GED equivalent, combined with seven (7) years of relevant experience.

• ISA certification is required.

Salary: $43.93 (Start Rate) $51.68 (Permanent Rate) Location of work: 9909 Franklin Ave, Fort McMurray, AB To apply visit www.rmwb.ca

24137 Old Banff Coach Rd, Calgary AB If you are a keen horticulturalist, like getting dirty, love the outdoors, and have a great attitude...we would love to hear from you!

Positions: Residential Crew Lead/Crew Members; Seasonal (mid-April to end of October), FT Location: NW Calgary Job Duties: • Tree, shrub, perennial & annual care • Weeding, soil amending, edging, deadheading, transplanting & planting • Daily reporting (Crew Leads) • Regular communication with team & clients Requirements: • Horticultural experience • Driver’s License Starting Wage: $16-$18. Negotiable based on experience. Bonus program, comprehensive training, and subsidized health benefit For more information, check out our website at: www.pixiegardens.ca or send your resume directly to: heather@pixiegardens.ca

Position: Sales and Marketing Manager, Strathmore, AB, Full-Time Seeking an individual with a strong commitment to customer service, to lead our sales team.

• 2-4 years of experience in the horticulture industry and 2-4 years of sales experience • Formal Horticulture Training would be an asset • Strong communication skills to confidently explain information and converse with customers/clients and employees • Organizational skills to effectively process all paperwork/products • Self-confidence to take the initiative to approach potential customers and existing customers • Achievement-motivated to work with customers and other members of the sales team, to set and surpass realistic goals • Strong up-to-date computer skills • Salary to be negotiated, Benefits after 3 months Send Resumes to: anita@eaglelakenurseries.com

Jansen Landscaping Ltd., Spruce Grove, AB Position: Landscape Labourer, seasonal full-time Would you like to work of an award winning landscape company? Are you passionate about landscaping? Are you a hard working individual who enjoys working outside? Then you should apply to Jansen Landscaping Ltd. Job duties: • Build structural retaining walls • Install paving stones • Spread topsoil, gravel, and mulch • Plant trees and shrubs • Cut grass, rake, fertilize and water • Follow health and safety regulations • Clean tools and equipment • Be a team player and follow the company values Wage: To be negotiated based on experience Location of work: Central Alberta Send resumes to: adam@jansen-landscaping.ca Phone: 780 953 5516 Skills requirements: Experience is an asset. No education required.

Oasis Construction Landscaping Ltd. 2916 Cedar Ridge Drive SW, Calgary, AB

24309 Twp Rd 510, Beaumont, AB Position: Garden Centre Sales Persons Term: Seasonal full time (Mid April until November) Duties: Outstanding customer service and sales Processing sales and sales orders Assembling orders Creating displays Restocking sales area General maintenance such as watering, weeding, pruning and tidiness Qualifications: Some formal horticultural training or work experience as asset Computer skills Great people skills Wages : To be negotiated Location of Work: Beaumont, AB (Edmonton)

Position: Landscape Laborer, Seasonal, March/April to November Duties: • Physical abilities in all aspects of landscape construction: Lifting 50-100lbs, shovel, rake and screed materials • Ability to work 10-12 hours per day, in all types of weather, 6 days per week • Interpretation of CAD landscape drawings and elevation drawings an asset • Being on time daily • Taking direction from superiors on tasks needing to be done towards project completion Wage: Starting at $16/hr, based on experience. OT and VAC on every pay Location: Calgary and surrounding area Requirements: Min1/yr landscape or construction experience, eqv. school, license and reliable transportation Send resumes to: Info@Oasis-Landscaping.ca Phone: 403-500-7771

Send resumes to: sherylw@cheyennetree.ca Fax: 780-929-8107

LANDSCAPE CREW LEADER Landscape Plus is a leading landscape construction company in Strathmore, AB. Key Responsibilities: • Plant and maintain lawns, shrubs and trees • Install irrigation systems, paving stone walks, patios, retaining walls • Able to read blue prints and landscape drawings • Operate and maintain a variety of equipment • Interact with customers • Assist the Landscape Supervisor organizing jobs Skills & Abilities: • Leadership skills • Thorough knowledge of plant, shrub and tree varieties and standard horticultural practices • Excellent oral and written communication • Problem solving • Committed to self-improvement • Ability to manage multiple priorities and jobs • Ability to make decisions and work independently • Eye for detail Wages: Starting at $18.00/hr Qualifications: • 2 years experience in landscape construction • Alberta Class 5 licence and a safe driving record • First Aid Certificate Please email landscapeplus1@yahoo.ca or fax (403) 934-6207 your cover letter and resume.

Located in Calgary, Alberta, Planta Landscape is an upscale, design-build landscape company. We specialize in softlandscape construction, planting trees, shrubs, laying sod, natural stone retaining walls.

We are now hiring for landscaping jobs for the 2016 season! We are looking for experienced site foreman and crew leaders who are mature minded, career orientated people who take pride in all that they do.

Experience is required and industry training an asset. Wages will be based on previous experience and performance.

To apply, please send resume to frank@plantalandscape.com in confidence!

www.plantalandscape.com Green for Life March/April 2016 I 11

!

Foothills Landscaping 2000 Ltd. 262 48 Street SE, Calgary, AB

Position: Horticulture Workers Supervisor (NOC:8256): Permanent, Full time Duties: Supervise commercial construction/maintenance landscapers, establish work schedules/procedures, resolve work related problems, train landscapers, requisition supplies, maintain performance records, prepare production reports, ensure all OH&S rules are followed, including correct PPEs. Specialization: Extensive plant identification knowledge, plant disease and remedy, pruning, production planting (20,000+ plants), landscape installation, grounds care and maintenance Machinery & Equipment: All mowers, back pack blowers, chain saw, sod cutter, back hoe, tractor, front end loader, small engine equipment Wage: $20.19 to $24.00 hourly, min. 30 hrs/week, benefits at 3 months Location: Calgary and surrounding areas Skills requirements: Minimum 3 years exp., Horticulture degree or Landscape Journeyman Send resumes to: debbie@foothillslandscaping.ca Phone: 403-273-0113 ext. 222 Fax: 403-248-6305

#431 2949 17 Ave SE. Calgary AB T2A 0P7 Position: Labourer, Full Time Job duties: Maintain lawns by aerating, weeding, and removing thatch, and trimming and edging around flower beds and walkways. Cutting and edging lawns using Lawnmowers, Trimers and Edgers.

Cultivate gardens.

Spread fertilizers Plant flowers, trees, and shrubs, and apply mulch for protection.

Gather and remove litter.

Spread topsoil, lay sod.

Prune and trim trees, shrubs, and hedges, using shears, pruners, or chain saws.

Trim and pick flowers, and clean flower beds..

Install rock gardens, decks, drainage systems, retaining walls, fences, and/or plants.

Operate powered equipment such as mowers, chain-saws, electric clippers, sod cutters, and pruning saws.

Use hand tools such as rakes, pruning saws, saws, hedge and brush trimmers, and axes.

Wages : $16-20/hr. DOE Location of Work: Calgary, Alberta Skills requirements: Horticultural experience, valid driver’s license Send resumes to: essentialpm@me.com CLS Landscape Supply Ltd 30034 TWP 254B Location:Calgary AB Positions: Landscape Crew Leads Wage: $18-$24 Landscape construction experience in: • Building interlocking brick patios • Install & set up of irrigation systems • Planting trees, shrubs, perennials • Building decks & fences • Experience in leading and training crew Abilities required: • Skilled in working with equipment (skid steers, mini excavator, trailers etc.)

Ability to organize fulltime and part time staff • • Strong organizational skills • Ability to work in a past paced environment • Strong leadership skills (train, lead and supervise staff) • Ability to work 10+ hours per day when necessary • Ability to work outdoors in a wide variety of weather conditions Send resume to: cooper@clslandscapesupply.com

12 I Green for Life March/April 2016

24309 Twp Rd 510, Beaumont, AB Position: Nursery Production - Container Plants Term: Seasonal full time To assist head grower Duties to consist of but not limited to: Planting and potting of trees, shrubs, perennials, propagation of plants, loading and unloading of trucks, assembling orders, maintenance of plants, pest monitoring, weed control, watering and irrigation.

Qualifications: Some formal horticultural training as asset, equipment and good computer skills Wages : To be negotiated Location of Work: Beaumont, AB (Edmonton) Send resumes to: jimw@cheyennetree.ca Fax: 780-929-8107

Oasis Construction Landscaping Ltd. 2916 Cedar Ridge Drive SW, Calgary, AB

Position: Landscape site foreman, Seasonal, March/April - November Duties: • Physical abilities in all aspects of landscape construction: Lifting 50-100lbs, shovel, rake and screed materials • Skid steer operation - Excavator experience an asset • Ability to work 10-12 hours per day, in all types of weather • Interpretation of CAD landscape drawings and elevation drawings, • Successfully manage crew to complete projects on time • Client interaction including project updates, changes or issues • Keep hour log for crew • Daily reports to superiors Wage: Starting at $22/hr, based on experience. OT and VAC each pay-period Benefits: Subject to experience and availability Phone, truck usage or allowances, health and dental potentially in 2016.

Location: Calgary and surrounding area Requirements: Min 3 years landscape construction experience, 1 year supervisor / management, class 5 license and reliable transportation Send resumes to: Info@Oasis-Landscaping.ca Phone: 403-500-7771

Jansen Landscaping Ltd., Spruce Grove, AB Position: Landscape Foreman, seasonal full-time Would you like to work of an award winning landscape company? Are you passionate about landscaping? Are you a hard working individual who enjoys working outside? Then you should apply to Jansen Landscaping Ltd. Job duties: • Build structural retaining walls • Install paving stones • Meet project deadlines • Read and understand landscape drawings • Be able to calculate volumes of materials • Manage an average crew size of 3-4 • Fill out daily paperwork • Drive trucks and tow trailers • Operate skid steers and other landscape equipment • Spread topsoil, gravel, and mulch • Plant trees and shrubs • Cut grass, rake, fertilize and water • Follow health and safety regulations • Clean tools and equipment • Be a team player and follow the company values Wage: To be negotiated based on experience Location of work: Central Alberta Send resumes to: adam@jansen-landscaping.ca Phone: 780 953 5516 Skills requirements: Minimum 2 years of Landscaping experience. Experience in a leadership role is an asset. No education required.

Canadian Tree Care

(a division of Classic Landscapes) Location: Edmonton, Alberta Position: ISA Certified Arborist (2 positions) Groundsperson - Arborist Assistant (2 positions) Permanent Full Time Position Interview today, start tomorrow!

Qualifications: • Experience in tree care, pruning and removal • Chain saw, wood chipper, large tree care (UTT an asset) • Physical work, steel toed boots required • Valid Drivers License required, First Aid an asset To Apply: email: canadiantreecare@classiclandscapes.com online: www.canadiantreecare.ca 780-988-9888 ext 232 ask for Emily

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Green for Life March/April 2016 I 13

It’s Not All Doom and Gloom Thoughts from Industry Leaders

There is one word on every single Albertans lips these days, the ECONOMY. And so, Landscape Alberta turned to its board of directors to ask how they are preparing their businesses for the downturn, what business looks like for 2016 and if there is anything they are doing different to prepare for the upcoming season. Thank you to board members John van Roessel, Brian Gibson, Steve Wheatcroft, Chris Brown and Anita Heuver for their input and service.

What are you doing to prepare for the economic downturn?

John van Roessel (JVR): What downturn? We were prepared last year already, and nothing materialized. Our strategy was to focus on every single prospect in a timely manner. No matter how hard we try, there are always people who fall between the cracks and go elsewhere for the only reason that we didn’t respond to them quick enough after first contact.

We are also doing a bit of a shuffle in some staff duties to avoid replacing one person from last year.

“It would be foolish to expect our rosy world to continue forever; however, it is equally foolish to go about life and business with the doom and gloom attitude that seems to be prevailing with a big part of the oil and gas industry.”

Brian Gibson (BG): We are definitely aware of the times, but are not changing our approach. Many people will spend more time in their yards during times like this. It is an opportunity for us to attract new customers who may have travelled more in previous years. If they are going to spend time in their yard, they want it to look good.

Steve Wheatcroft (SW): We are looking at staffing and possible reduction, as well as trying to identify emerging market possibilities.

Chris Brown (CB): Localizing with the intent to provide our specific area with a broad range of landscape services; reducing staff and implementing efficiencies.

Anita Heuver (AH): We are working on strengthening our sales team to improve customer service, and to make sure we are on top of all the opportunities. We are not planning to decrease production on products that take a long time to have ready for sale, but we are controlling production on some of the shorter term crops.

What are your business prospects for 2016?

JVR: So far they look great! We have quite a few projects where clients are waiting for Phase II, and we have quite a few new projects for people who are anxiously waiting for the first spots of spring.

BG: Our renewals are in line with previous years and are 14 I Green for Life March/April 2016

budgeting for continued growth.

SW: We are looking at a breakeven year at best.

CB: Booked solid until August 2016, with some warranty work and CCC/FAC prep for September.

AH: Our customers are indicating that they still have strong bookings for the 2016 season, but the slowdown in development will definitely affect the larger contractors.

How do foresee labour issues being impacted?

JVR: So far we are not needing to hire, so we have not posted job ads. We have everyone returning except one person (half office/half field).

BG: We are starting to see a number of applications already.

I think many students are getting resumes out early this year in preparation of a tighter job market.

SW: We have more competent resumes than ever.

CB: We are seeing almost a 90% retention rate from last year and are currently building crews by picking the best from 2015.

AH: We are interviewing for some key positions right now and are finding good candidates. As we are rural, I still think that the seasonal laborer positions will be challenging to fill.

Any last thoughts?

JVR: It would be foolish to expect our rosy world to continue forever; however, it is equally foolish to go about life and business with the doom and gloom attitude that seems to be prevailing with a big part of the oil and gas industry.

BG: Just to reiterate what I said previously, our service is affordable and improves the beauty of homeowner’s properties. People will prioritize their spending… I think their landscapes will make the list.

SW: Hold on, be creative and get ready to rumble. Only the strong will survive!!!

CB: Our developers are being cautious, but the municipalities are continuing as normal and residential refurbishing seems to be up. We might see a reduction on commercial maintenance in favour of un-busy staff taking over from the contractor.

There is a lot of good data from previous recessions that show residential renovation spending can increase as people travel less and look to improve the value of their homes. Property managers looking to attract more renters must look to improve the quality of their green spaces, and the provincial and federal governments have both announced healthy doses of infrastructure funding, which are likely to include landscaping. This is also a great time to focus on staff training and to be thankful for higher staff retention rates. Don’t forget to check out the many member savings programs offered to Landscape Alberta members through the CNLA; every dollar saved is a dollar earned.

Member Savings Member Savings Programs Programs

Caterpillar: Save up to $2,750 on select CAT equipment and attachment purchases and 10% off the list or book rate for anything rented through the Cat Rental Store.

Echo / Shindaiwa: 20% MSRP discount on ECHO or Shindaiwa units and accessories.

Enterprise: Save 10% off daily, weekly and monthly posted retail rates for commercial truck rentals.

Esso: Save time and money while using the Esso Business and Fleet Cards. Discount of 2.9¢/litre.

FCA Canada Inc - Dodge, Jeep, Ram: Save thousands on NEW Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles.

General Motors Canada: Huge savings on select NEW GMC Vehicles.

Isuzu Trucks: Save up to $4,000 on select NEW Isuzu Trucks. A $100 administration fee applies.

Krown Rust Control: Receive access to special fleet pricing program and discounts on specified products.

Kubota Canada Ltd.: Receive 18-22% off the suggested list price, or discounts of 11-15% off the suggested list price for purchases made with 0% financing for 36 months.

Petro-Canada: Save 2.4¢/litre off the posted retail price at retail locations only, 15% off car washes and 3% discount on propane.

Employers First: Members receive a 10% discount on over 40 landscape and safety training courses.

Landscape Industry Certification: Members receive discounted rates on training manuals and exam registration for landscape industry certified designations.

LS Training System: Members receive 5% savings on published rates for training modules.

Retail Council of Canada: Members receive discounted rates on RCC webinars, access to select group discount programs, professional development opportunities, networking events and free publications.

Group Bid Protect: Provide your business with up to $1 million in legal expense insurance coverage. Available legal assistance with contract disputes and debt recovery.

HortProtect Insurance: An insurance program customized to meet the needs of this industry.

Offers property and casualty insurance, life and health insurance and an RRSP plan for your company and its employees.

MBNA MasterCard®: A CNLA branded MasterCard® with high credit limits and low introductory rates.

Canadian Federation of Independent Business: Receive a discount on membership fees and access to savings programs, business training resources, business counselors and increased lobbying power.

casaGURU: Receive a free business listing on casaGURU.com and its partner sites.

Lyreco Office Supplies: Discounts on over 7000 office products.

Mark’s (Imagewear): 15% off the majority of Mark’s workwear clothing, footwear and safety accessories.

NEBS: Members save 15% on printed products. Receive discounted rates with NEBS Payweb payroll system.

Work Authority: 15% discount on all regular priced merchandise.

DynaSCAPE Software: A 10% discount off new or upgrade license purchases and online training.

Schooley Mitchell Telecom Consultants: Your Schooley consultant will audit your existing telecom system to find you savings.

Choice Hotels: Save 15% on the lowest internet advertised price at participating Choice Hotels worldwide, on an available-room basis.

To take advantage of these programs, contact the CNLA Member Services team: 1-888-446-3499 or email memberservices@cnla-acpp.ca. www.cnla-acpp.ca/benefits

Green for Life March/April 2016 I 15

Achieving Peak Performance

By Bob Coulter

When most individuals talk about their performance, you will hear them refer to working hard, working long hours, being loyal to their company, and doing their best. These are all admirable characteristics, but they don't always translate into achievement.

Every college football team works hard, but those that are able to hit the field and truly play at peak performance will continue toward championship games and become a masterful blend of coaching and individual and team performances that give fans what they wait to witness every year… players bringing the heart and mental fortitude to win under pressure and playing at their best.

We need to have the same mentality in business to produce peak performances and create a team that gets outstanding results. Consider this definition of a high-performing workforce - an organization with a significant group of employees whose emotional commitment enables them to deliver amazing services or products that constitute a sustainable competitive advantage and drive significant business results. This does not happen by accident.

Performance is a process that some companies and teams choose to pursue. Three things that are present in these groups are: 1 They believe strongly in each of their people.

2 They engage the hearts and minds of each member of their team.

3 They find the right balance between getting group results and individual fulfillment.

16 I Green for Life March/April 2016

Create a Team High-performing companies have consistent workforce energy that is consciously channeled in ways that insure dynamic outcomes. Over the years, Home Depot has been an organization that has found the right balance between great enterprise outcomes and fulfilled employees. Their employees thrive on the challenge of a frantic work environment where one never knows who, when, or what will be the source of the next challenge. The Home Depot associates become part of the in-store family of people with whom they share respect and support. Finally they like the content of hands-on work and hands-on problem solving that requires intricate product knowledge, as well as superior customer relations capability.

Know Where You Are Going The strongest organizations are those that are able to frame a compelling vision, mission and values. Employees in those organizations feel truly proud of what the enterprise stands for, what their specific work group can accomplish, and what they can contribute, both collectively and individually. These groups then recognize employees who consistently meet and exceed their goals and achievements. These goals emphasize specific outcomes rather than activities that may or may not lead to outcomes. They also have well-defined processes that take them to the desired results. Using this path, the primary focus of the enterprise is that of tracking and rewarding individual performance and ensuring that high achievers have ample advancement or job enhancement opportunities.

Be Willing to Lead The Marines are a classic example of an organization that has been able to distribute leadership broadly and achieve peak performance. Drill instructors, infantry leaders and staff sergeants alike are expected to know the intentions of a leader two levels above them, and to take actions and initiatives consistent with those intentions.

Their goal is to develop leaders that will ensure mission accomplishment and place the welfare of the Marines above their own.

Such leaders constitute incomparable role models.

Create Energy Around Winning At JP Horizons, we believe strongly in our mission of Energizing a Zillion People. We believe that this energy is vital in creating Peak Performance. Just like the energy and passion built around the college football championship, your company can have the same magical combination of qualities that take a team to the finals if you allow energy to drive your results as you believe strongly in your people, engage their hearts and minds in the vision, and find the right balance between getting group results and individual fulfillment, you and your team will experience peak performance.

Tips for Peak Performance 4 Provide your people with an identity, sense of purpose and selfworth: a position where what people do really matters to the company as well as to them.

5 Provide a feeling of belonging: being part of a group that they respect and with whom they like to work.

6 Create an environment built on direction, structure, and order: a workplace where people feel secure.

7 Give people a voice in what happens to them: an influence over their own destiny within the company.

8 Provide the chance to develop and improve as a person: the opportunity to take on increasing challenges, learn new skills and advance over time.

If you want to learn more about the power of PEOPLE SOLUTIONS THAT DRIVE BUSINESS PERFORMANCE, contact: JP Horizons Inc., 8119 Auburn Road, Painesville, OH 44077. Phone: (440) 352-8211. Fax: (800) 715-8326. E-mail: jim@jphorizons.com. www.jphorizons.com

Green for Life March/April 2016 I 17

L-R: Unknown, Hugh Knowles

Kurt Engel, Sherwood Gardens

1974 Landscape Awards

A look back at our association

1987 Trade Show. L-R: Ralph Klein and Tony Heuver

1986 Landscape Awards

L-R: Jane McKintosh, LANTA Secretary, unknown

Southern Chpater BBQ at Greenview Nurseries. R: Gary Johnson, LANTA Executive Director

L-R: Jennie Monson and Murray Munro

L-R: Mike Haberl and Kevin Danyliuk (1994) 18 I Green for Life March/April 2016

1997 Green Thumb Award. L-R: Jim Wotherspoon, Gloria Beck and Eric Heuver

The people in these photos have been identified to the best of our ability. If we have made an error or if you are able to identify someone in a photo, please email admin@landscape-alberta.com, so we can update our records.

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