The Leaflet Spring 2023

DISCLAIMER: The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, directors or staff and do not constitute an endorsement of the products or featured services. Likewise, the appearance of advertisements, or their identification as members of the MNLA does not constitute an endorsement of their products or featured services.

REPRINT PERMISSION: Reprints of original articles may be granted upon request. Contact info@plantingmontana.com with requests.

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Weather in Missoula is holding strong, on the slightly cooler with very little snow melt the past few weeks. The weather was very similar during our Montana Green Expo in Missoula.

Darin, our retiring/out-going president did a wicked incredible job on providing an educational-based, packed-room expo this year. In addition, I want to give a warm and thankful hug of appreciation to all sponsors to our expo: Proven Winners and Belgard sponsored at the Diamond Level, and Wilbur Ellis, Rain Bird, 2M and Hunter were Platinum sponsors, and Valley Landscape and BioLynceus coming in with our gold and silver level sponsorships. Once again, thank you. There were quite a few things that are worth mentioning that came from our Expo this season, first off it was a huge success financially for the MNLA. Gina, our Executive Director, did an incredible job with applying for and receiving a grant that paid for our mental health speaker, Dr. Andrea Bonior. Dr. Andrea Bonior spoke during the lunch break on Wednesday. Also, what contributed to the success was our high booths sales with great attendance while keeping our cost under control.

Another great success was Muffins and Mimosas. I did not see the final numbers for attendance, but based on the decibels coming from the room I can only imagine everyone enjoyed the new event. It did make me think about the many women I interact with within the horticulture industry and makes me proud that the MNLA stands behind and promotes women in horticulture. Thank you, Gina, for making this event happen.

I was really excited, and was not let down, on our Montana-native Patrick Chadwick, who gave us a glimpse into providing 5-star service to luxury high-stakes clients. Patrick gave us 2 keynote speeches that mesmerized the crowd with great photos and stories.

In closing, I would like to give a huge hug with a lot of love to Darin our retiring outgoing president. Darin put on an awesome Expo filled with great educational value. I wish you the best of luck on your next life adventure. Thank you for your time and dedication to the MNLA.

The board is currently working on a blow-your-mind Expo for 2024. The biggest change is our event location. We will be hosting the 2024 Expo in downtown Billings at the Double Tree Hotel. We are very excited about the new venue.

Our next event coming up is our Fall Tour. James Hoiland, our 2nd Vice President, is taking the lead on this year’s tour around Great Falls, MT. The MNLA Board is currently working on a new event that will go along with our Fall Tour this season. We are very close on finalizing some details and will share this incredible news very soon!

Sincerely Yours,

Matt Watts

PRESIDENT Matt Watts MFW Landscape Missoula, MT

1st VICE PRESIDENT

Peter Hiel

Gardenwerks

Helena, MT

2nd VICE PRESIDENT

James Hoiland

Greenup Lawn Landscape & Sprinklers

Great Falls, MT

3rd VICE PRESIDENT

John Spray

John Spray Landscapes Billings, MT

MEMBER-AT-LARGE

Joe Sansone Oldcastle

Polson, MT

PAST PRESIDENT

Matt Watts

MFW Landscape

Missoula, MT

SECRETARY

Pat Appleby Compost Happens Gardening Florence, MT

EDUCATION COMMITTEE CHAIR

Kristi Browning, CPP Cashman Nursery

Bozeman, MT

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Gina Albaugh MNLA Billings, MT

Awarding Excellence at the Montana Green Expo

Each year, we set aside time during the Montana Green Expo to recognize some of Montana’s most talented and dedicated green-industry professionals. We love recognizing the people and projects that make this industry what it is. There were some impressive entries and nominations this year; MNLA members did not disappoint! So many great projects were submitted in both the Best of MT Landscape and Container Planting Contests that we all left the show feeling inspired, and hope the projects featured on these pages spark some creativity in you as well. Thank you to everyone who submitted their projects, and congratulations to all the talented award winners!

from Helena, the owners of this historic cabin home wanted to accentuate its natural surroundings, especially a nearby aspen grove and native grass meadows. Started in 2019, the landscape has a heavy emphasis on natural stone and native plants, including a groundcover matrix using about 2,000 native grass plugs as well as some seeded areas.

Gina Albaugh, MNLA Executive Director

1st Place Best of Montana Landscapes, Residential Category Gardenwerks, Helena, MT

Situated in the quiet valley of Colorado Gulch, about 10 minutes

2nd Place Best of Montana Landscapes, Residential Category

CW Designs, Billings, MT

Landscapes, Hardscape Category

Greenspace Landscaping, Inc., Bozeman, MT

This project was a highlight of our firm’s 29-year career. We love it because it was a complex project that took an enormous amount of skill, ingenuity and team effort to install. The results are a meandering but purposeful journey or path to our own center and back again out into the world. Creating the Labyrinth was super fun as it was unique, challenging and exciting to know we were creating a public space and personal experience where there were no wrong turns, only mindfulness calling us to be present in the moment which is a metaphor for the gardening experience. The project encompassed many features we

3rd Place Best of Montana Landscapes, Residential Category

Leaning Tree Landscape Management, Big Sky, MT

enjoyed working with; extremely skilled and detailed hardscaping installation, meticulous mathematic calculations to ensure continuity and connection of the pathways and historic repurposed granite cobble/curbs collected from the streets of Butte. It also created a sense of community sharing, a peaceful respite from our chaotic world, an active space that includes mind and body healing. The Labyrinth was a collaboration between a private citizen and the Bozeman Library Foundation. The public enjoys the labyrinth throughout the seasons even in the snow!

We are proud to be a part of this community project.

Leaning Tree Landscape Management, Bozeman, MT

Landscapes, Hardscape Category

Highridge Landscapes, Bozeman, MT

1st Place Best of Montana

2nd Place Best of Montana

Landscapes, Hardscape Category

3rd Place Best of Montana

1st Place Best of Montana Landscapes, Softscape Category

Ann McKean, Canyon Creek Nursery, Billings, MT This evolving front garden was designed to sustainably fulfill the requirements of the National Wildlife Federation Backyard Wildlife Habitat as it blends with the feeling of the Rims above it and provides beauty and interest in all four seasons. Capturing and utilizing all the roof runoff of the building, it uses a combination of native and nonnative low water use plants including trees, shrubs,

perennials, herbs, grasses, and bulbs to stretch the seasons and evoke a sense of wildness while maintaining structure. The Hindu Pan is a formal counterpoint to the ebullience of the plants around it and helps to connect the garden to the house. The garden is host to turkeys, deer, rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, owls, hawks, songbirds, a kaleidoscope of insects and is an ever-changing joy to live with. Hard scape created by Stuart Shay of Sustainable Siteworks. Planting design and installation by Ann McKean. Plants provided by Canyon Creek Nursery.

Forestoration, Whitefish, MT

3rd

CW Designs, Billings, MT

2nd Place Best of Montana Landscapes, Softscape Category

Place Best of Montana Landscapes, Softscape Category

1st Place Best of Montana Landscapes, Water Feature Category

CW Designs, Billings, MT

This pondless waterfall was designed to fit in a small space off the patio to provide the sound of rushing water. The sandstone boulder retaining wall was extended to give the appearance of the waterfall splitting the wall. The waterfall is broken into two parts with large moss rock boulders providing the fall rocks. A winding stream leads from the first fall to the second fall. A mixture of 12” plus, 4-8” cobble and 1.5” river rock help soften the look of the stream.

1st Place Best of Montana Landscapes, Commercial Category

Rivers Landscaping, Bozeman, MT

Since the 1960’s, Montana State University has set the foundation for the Native American programs offered with the goal to increase enrollment and support our Native American tribes. In 2004, another dream began to form, a facility that would be home for MSU’s Native American students. Funding was secured in 2017 for the dream that would become the American Indian Hall and Rivers Landscaping was selected to complete the landscaping. Throughout 2021, we worked closely with the General Contractor, Swank Enterprises, and the Native American Program at MSU to ensure every last detail was fulfilled.

Over 1,500 Native Montana grown plants were planted across the 5,000 square foot area and over an acre of blended Native Seed grasses grown with the intention of surrounding the new building with tall native grass instead of typical turfgrass. These native plants consist of medicinal, ceremonial, and edible plants to provide a learning landscape experience. Before planting began, the ground and plantings were blessed in ceremony by Native American faculty at MSU with the faculty planting the first several sagebrush. There is also a garden space consisting of goods that the peoples of northwestern plains and northern Rockies have cultivated and traded, such as corn, beans, squash, sunflowers, etc. This garden provides a nurturing environment for the recovery and continuation of cultural knowledge of foods cultivated by Native students and their communities. The MSU American Indian Hall is the first building in Montana to receive the LEED Platinum certification in version 4.1. This is the highest sustainable classification using the United States Green Building Council’s sustainability rating system in which landscaping plays an important role in this certification through water conservation practices with onsite water retention, specific topsoil and planting selections, and irrigation practices.

Overall, this project took over 1,200-man hours to complete, months of preparation, and a dedicated team to depend on. Rivers Landscaping is proud to have its name associated with the Montana State University American Indian Hall for generations to come.

2nd Place Best of Montana Landscapes, Commercial Category

CW Designs, Billings, MT

1st Place Container Planting Content

Highridge Landscapes, Bozeman, MT

This container installation was created for a resident who wanted a nativar look to contrast the modern lines of their Bozeman home. It primarily consists of perennials, packed tightly to create an overflowing abundance out of the large metal containers. Karl Foerster grasses, Blue Oat grasses, Annual Gaura and Catmint form a solid textural base while Gold Agastache, Apricot Yarrow, Rozanne

Geranium and Shasta Daisy provide season-long color and fill.

This was replicated over 4 identical containers, each varying the position of the plants but keeping similar patterns and sun exposure. This is unique because it is primarily perennials, performing brilliantly in succession to achieve a containerized meadow.

2nd

Mandy’s Tree Care & Landscape Maintenance, Bozeman, MT

Canyon Creek Nursery, Billings, MT

Place Container Planting Content

3rd Place Container Planting Content

Lifetime Member Award

Bill Caras, Caras Nursery, Missoula, MT

It’s not often that we get to recognize an individual for the extraordinary contributions they have made throughout their lifetime to both the MNLA family and the greater horticulture community. Bill Caras is a most deserving individual, and was nominated

for an honorary lifetime membership by long-time MNLA member, Bev Marchie. Thank you, Bev, for putting together these priceless photos of Bill throughout the years. Congratulations, Bill, and thank you for your dedication and service to the industry! We are proud to have you as a Lifetime Member.

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Bill Caras, center, accepting his Lifetime Membership awards, flanked by longtime MNLA members Jerry Cashman (L), Bev Marchie (R), and Brad Brown (far R).

Grow Your Business Wisely

Building a business costs money—usually more than you can generate from your operating revenues alone. Securing the funds you need will require careful planning and preparation. Whether you’re a fully operating business looking to add a new truck to your fleet or build a new location, or if you’re just starting out, you’ll need money to turn your plans into reality. It might help to work with an accountant to calculate estimated costs for reaching the next level of development.

The Basics

Before you borrow, list your basic business expenses. Each time you expand your business, these costs are likely to increase:

• Employee salaries

• Rent

• Electricity, heating, air conditioning, and fuel

• Paper and other office supplies

• Purchasing or leasing operating equipment

• Decorating or remodeling costs

• Legal and professional fees

• Insurance

• Taxes

• Machinery and power tools

Give Yourself Some Credit

One option to increase your funds is to get a line of credit, which is a type of loan that gives you shortterm or seasonal funds.

Basically, a line of credit is very similar to a credit card, with the notable exception that interest on a line of credit is lower and may be tax deductible. You borrow cash, using your business assets as collateral, and pay back the principal and interest on any outstanding balance each month. A long-term credit loan usually lasts up to five years, and is helpful if you want to have money for operating costs until your business turns a profit. Lenders typically require that you provide collateral or sign a promissory note on this type of loan and pay it back in installments. Of course, you should always be wary of getting into unnecessary debt or borrowing more than you can afford to pay back.

Joeleen Ramsey

Do You Qualify?

If you’re thinking about taking a loan to build your business, there are several qualifications that banks and investors normally expect from you, as the owner, and your business. Before you apply for a loan, make sure that you can provide potential lenders with the following:

• Business plan

• Balance sheet and income statement

• Cash flow projections

• Profit and loss reports

• Personal financial statements for all business partners

• Credit report

• Personal income tax returns

• Information on business debts

Getting the Loan

You may want to investigate banks that have a history of offering loans to small and growing businesses, since they may be more familiar with your situation and easier to work with.

All potential lenders will probably ask how much you are investing personally in your business venture. It’s a good business practice to have a strong relationship with a specific institution, as that could make it easier for you to get loans when you need them. If you don’t use one particular bank or credit union, you might want to open a business banking account or secure small lines of credit before applying for a big loan.

Potential lenders will probably ask how much you are investing personally in your business venture. Among other things, it’s a way to assess your commitment to the business.

While we hope you find this content useful, it is only intended to serve as a starting point. Your next step is to speak with a qualified, licensed professional who can provide advice tailored to your individual circumstances. Nothing in this article, nor in any associated resources, should be construed as financial or legal advice. Furthermore, while we have made good faith efforts to ensure that the information presented was correct as of the date the content was prepared, we are unable to guarantee that it remains accurate today. This article was provided in-part by Banzai.

Bravera Bank is Member FDIC and an Equal House Lender. Bravera Insurance is an equal opportunity provider. Products and services offered through Bravera Insurance are: * Not a deposit * Not FDIC insured * Not insured by any federal government agency * Not financial institution guaranteed

Congratulations Scholarship Recipient!

Kristi Browning, MNLA Education Chair

MNLA awarded a $2,000 scholarship to Marissa Berryman this fall, we were proud to present her with the award at our January Expo. Thank you to all our scholarship donors and volunteers who made this possible.

Marissa Berryman is a undergraduate at Montana State University – Bozeman, majoring in Landscape Design. Committed to education in all things related to horticulture, Berryman (Berry) is also a Certifed Plant Professional, and has successfully completed the level one Master Gardener program. During the summer months, Berry applied for, and was awarded, an internship with the MNLA, all while balancing a demanding career in the landscape industry. Berry states, “I am a dedicated, hard-working individual, with much zest for life. I have always been an excellent student and put forth my greatest effort when I have my sights set on a goal. As a woman in the landscape industry, I am fueled by breaking gender norms and being well-rounded and knowledgeable,

in case I have to compensate for any physical disadvantage I may have. As a native Montanan, I aim to be a respected and renowned part of my community, by curating environmentally responsible gardens shared by all, not just

Eligible people must be enrolled in any higher education facility for the semester following their application, seniors in high school may apply for their first semester in a higher education program. Applicants do not have to be enrolled in a green industry field. Scholarships are awarded based on available funding.

those who can afford it. I want my work to reflect what makes Montana a unique and beautiful place to live. As an older student, I understand the importance of my education and want to take full advantage of what the university has to offer me and will make every dollar I put into my degree worth its every cent.”

As a member benefit, the scholarship fund is open to members and their immediate families as well as to employees of members and their dependents.

If you would like to apply, download the application on our website. There are two rounds of awarding per year. The upcoming deadline is March 31st, and the next deadline is November 1st. Scholarship applications can be emailed to info@ plantingmontana.com or they can be mailed to:

Scholarship Program

Montana Nursery & Landscape Association

P.O. Box 20353

Billings, MT 59104

If you would like to donate to the scholarship fund, contact our executive director at info@ plantingmontana.com

Montana Green Expo Recap

The Green Expo was a hit this year! The experience this year was full of various opportunities, offering education for all, from business development to new software. Darin did an outstanding job bringing in great speakers which helped boost

attendance numbers up from last year. Here are a few highlights of the speakers we heard: Mark Brandley from LMN offered some great options for operating software, with ways to track and run day-to-day business, and incentive ideas for staffing.

Steve Lehenbauer educated on vehicle tracking systems, in order to track your fleet. Lucia Christie shared information in the growers and plant sections, of new plant varieties and trends. Paul Golden really touched on how to design your greenhouse to help save on labor. Shawn Knudson did a presentation on FX lighting showing how we can add

another element to our business with the nighttime excitement of lighting technology. Paul Cureton presented on installation and design of permeable pavers and the maintenance of the hardscape. Abiya Saeed brought to light pollinators and the importance of the use of them in our landscapes. James Prchal brought us back to the basics of planting best practices. Mark Sembach presented on the Soil Food web to help us all understand the soil that affects the industry. Frank Etzler did a presentation highlighting the current and future pests we need to know about. Nicholas Holom did a presentation on the current workforce and ideas for how we deal with it. Mike Garvey did a couple presentations on tree management and improper planted containers. Joel, Lydia Fields and Tim Magney did a full section of Plant Health care clinics and Dr. Andrea Bonior from Georgetown University did a lesson during the lunch season which was something new this season, on Combating Stress and Burnout in the Workplace.

Finally, Alan Walkenhorst and Andrew Barber headed up this year’s Irrigation College which we had a great turnout for this session.

Our Keynote speaker, Patrick Chadwick, had a great and interesting presentation of his

James Hoiland, MNLA

2nd Vice President

Keynote speaker, Patrick Chadwick

experience with working on some very high-profile projects. Brightview had to work hand-in-hand with all of the development crews to execute an amazing landscape while dealing with a superfund site and its challenges. He really opened everyone’s eyes to the potential of the projects that really do happen in our industry and how important they can be in transforming the landscape for a project.

Lastly, something new this year that was a hit was the Women in Horticulture, Muffins and Mimosas. What a great way for the ladies to start the morning off with a round table discussion and networking with others in the profession with a mimosa in their hand. I’m sure all the men would have loved to hear some of the discussion the ladies were having with the laughs that were had in the room! They had a great turn out and I am sure they will be having yet another session at the next Expo. We look forward to seeing everyone next year in a brand-new location in Billings for the Montana Green Expo.

Diamond Level Sponsors

Gold Level SponsorSilver Level Sponsors BioLynceus

Lundeby Evergreens & Manufacturing

Platinum Level Sponsors

Trade Show Vendors

L: Emily Talago, Specialty Crop Block Grant Manager, C: Marissa Berryman, Grant Intern, R: Darin Sabers, MNLA Vice President

Attendees trying out the custom-designed patio chairs donated by MFW Landscapes for the silent auction fundraiser.

Women in Horticulture Muffins & Mimosas Brunch

Notes from the Executive Director

Greetings, MNLA Members! I hope you have all had a successful winter season – whether that be a productive snow season, or restful period of time before the hustle and bustle of Spring arrives. Here in the MNLA office, we have been wrapping up from another great Montana Green Expo, and planning for the year ahead. It was nice to gather with so many of you at the Expo in Missoula, and I look forward to seeing you throughout the year at our other events.

As the year begins, we have a few deadlines to remind you of; new funding cycles are open for the Community Beautification Fund and the Scholarship Program. Both of these programs are funded by the Silent Auction that is held during the Expo; thank you for everyone who supported these programs by either donating an item or making an auction purchase. We are excited to give back to the MNLA membership through the CBF and Scholarships. The first deadline is for our Scholarship Program; make sure to put March 31st on your calendars if you have any students in your immediate family or crewmembers that are college-age. Short-course scholarship are also available for continuing education programs. More information on the programs can be found in the scholarship articles in this Leaflet, or at www.

plantingmontana.com/scholarships. Applications for the Community Beautification Fund (CBF) are being accepted through April 30th. As a reminder, the CBF was established to help improve and beautify public spaces in your community. If you have a project to submit for consideration, you can download the application and view past projects on our website: www. plantingmontana.com/Community_ Beautification.

Make sure you check out the article on awards for the Best of Montana Landscape and Container Planting competitions. Your fellow MNLA members submitted some impressive projects. Make sure you congratulate the winners the next time you see them, and don’t forget to keep your camera handy as you start projects this year! Many of you have taken advantage of the new member discount on the Greenius software. Greenius is the educational side of Landscape Management Network (LMN). We have negotiated waived implementation fees for all MNLA members ($349 value), and a two month free trial of Greenius. The trail will give you access to all of the Greenius training videos, as well as the ability to set up training pathways for each employee and track their progress through the trainings. You can also upload custom trainings that fit your

Gina Albaugh Executive Director

business needs. Look for the Greenius flyer in this Leaflet for more information, or visit: https://share. golmn.com/montana. If you want to explore LMN even further, we have also negotiated a discount on their business management software. https://share. golmn.com/montana-pro. We’re always looking for ways to add value to your membership, so please take advantage of these programs, and send us your ideas for other things you would find beneficial.

Last, but certainly not least, we have several Board members that have completed their terms and moved off the Board. I want to thank Steve Lehenbauer, Tim Groener, Laura Lambrecht, and Darin Sabers for everything you have poured into the MNLA over the years. I am thankful I was able

to work with each and every one of you. Thank you for carrying the torch for so many years. With every goodbye comes a new hello – please join me in welcoming our three new Board members; Pat Appleby, John Spray, and Joe Sansone. All three come highly qualified to lead this Association. Please be sure to reach out to them with any of your questions or ideas. Their contact information can be found near the front of this Leaflet. As always, I’m just a call or email away – contact me anytime: 406-755-3079, gina@plantingmontana.com. Have a wonderful Spring!

Gina Albaugh MNLA Executive Director

Montana Native Plant Society New Landscaping & Revegetation Information

Patrick Plantenberg, President MNPS

The Montana Native Plant Society (MNPS) Landscaping and Revegetation Committee has some new documents on their website at https://mtnativeplants. org/native-plant-landscaping/

• Montana Native Plant Source Guide April 2022 (being updated again this spring)

• Germination of Wildland

Collected Seed

• Water-W ise Grasses: Alternatives to Kentucky Bluegrass Turf

• Native Bunchgrasses Used As Specimen/Accent Plants in Landscaping

• Landscaping, Reclamation, Site Stabilization, and Ground Cover Grass Seed Mixtures

• Commercially Available Native W ildflower Seed Released by USDA-NRCS Plant Material Centers

Native plant landscaping is being promoted by animal, bird, and bug lovers, as well as native plant enthusiasts. As reported on the National Wildlife Federation website, the research of entomologist Dr. Doug Tallamy and his team at the University of Delaware have found that 14% of native plants (the keystones) support 90% of butterfly and moth lepidoptera species. MNPS hopes to identify and promote propagation of Montana keystone native species that do the 90% of the work. Then these species would be available for sale at Montana nurseries.

Your landscapes don’t have to be completely changed to all native species. Just by reducing your lawn by 10% and putting in native plantings and/or by planting a bee lawn (mixture of turfgrass and small stature wildflowers like clover, selfheal, violets, etc.) you

can provide much needed habitat for bugs, bees, birds, and other animals. Clint Culver, owner of NitroGreen of Helena, is offering a 10% discount on his lawn care customers for converting 10% of their lawn to a native landscape and/or a bee lawn.

There is also some older regional landscape guides on the MNPS website:

• Regional Landscaping with Native Plant Guides for the Flathead Valley, Helena area, Bozeman & Southwest Montana area, and the Missoula & WestCentral Montana area. MNPS is planning on updating these guides over the next two years.

Find out more about MNPS at https://mtnativeplants.org/

In the Board Room

November 2022 The video meeting was called to order, balance sheet was reviewed with most categories improving this year. A scholarship application was reviewed, with a motion to award $2,000 to Marissa Berryman. The MT Dept of Agriculture reported that nursery registration numbers are up, and they have a new person handling the pesticide licensing. An update on the Specialty Crop Block Grant project was given, with plans to have our intern join us at Expo to present the work-to-date. A “Plant This, Not That” poster was reviewed, with recommended edits noted. The Greenius program was reviewed, with roll-out to members scheduled for November 15th. MT Green Expo schedule was reviewed, with plans to have a First Aid/CPR class and ICPI paver course as add-on workshops. Upcoming Board elections and possible candidates were discussed.

December 2022 The Board met by video call, with all members present. Financial report was discussed, noting that our year-to-year comparison is up, due mainly to Expo income. Kristi reported that two people have registered for the CPP exam at Expo. Gina reviewed membership numbers, reporting that several new companies have joined. Fall Tour location was discussed, as well as final details on Expo and silent auction donations. Board of Directors nominations were reviewed, with Pat Appleby volunteering to step into the Secretary position as Laura was leaving the position before the end of her term. In new business, conference attendance for Board members was brought up, with discussion on attending regional conferences to bring back ideas for our Expo.

January 2023 All Board members were present in Missoula, MT, where president Matt Watts called the meeting to order. Gina reported on projected financial outcome of Expo, noting that hotel expenses were much higher than previous years. Construction at the hotel was unexpected, and discussion on moving booths to accommodate construction was reviewed. Frank Etzler with MT Dept of Ag reported that Kima Trayham is the new Bureau Chief, and Lori Leaf is in charge of pesticide licensing. Upcoming legislation was reviewed, noting that the bill to remove sod farmers from the nursery licensing program was being re-introduced.

NURSERY & LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION

MNLA will revive our previous position paper against this bill and will line up speakers to testify at the legislature if needed. Membership numbers were reviewed, with several new members joining in December. Gina led discussion on Expo details and staff schedules. Emily Talago joined the meeting to present a draft of the Specialty Crop Block Grant consumer guide catalog, with discussion on edits before taking the project to print. In new business, Darin Sabers announced he is moving to South Dakota and will not be able to serve out his term on the Board. Discussion followed on how to fill the President position that Darin would have moved into at the Annual Meeting. Matt volunteered to serve a 2nd year as President in Darin’s place, with Gina noting that our bylaws allow a Board member to hold more than one position at a time. Matt will serve as Past-President and acting President. All other Board members will continue with their scheduled terms.

February 2023 Meeting was called to order by President Matt Watts in Bozeman, MT. New Board members Joe Sansone, Pat Appleby, and John Spray were welcomed. Finances were reviewed, with motion to remove outgoing Board members from the bank accounts, and add Peter Hiel. Goals for the year were discussed. Will continue to look for programs that we can negotiate discounts, etc. to benefit our members. Kristi will continue her work to promote scholarship opportunities, and review programs for CPP continuing education credits. Gina’s contract was reviewed, with a unanimous vote to extend the contract for another year. John Spray reported on the Billings Chapter’s scheduled

events for the year, reporting the Chapter is doing well and continuing to contribute to the general MNLA fund and scholarship program each year. James discussed the upcoming Leaflet Newsletter, noting that printing costs have risen dramatically, with discussion on moving the Leaflet from paper to an all-digital publication. Decision was made to print the paper version this year alongside a digital format. James has a good start on Fall Tour planning and is proposing to have a shorter tour day with equipment demos, and more details to come. The 2024 Expo will be held in Billings, MT January 3-5, moving to a Wednesday through Friday format this year, and new

The Basics of Xeriscaping and Water-Wise Landscaping

Although Xeriscapes may not be suitable for all types of gardening (especially if you are considering growing food crops, specialty crops, or other plants with

Limited water supplies, often compounded by drought conditions, can reduce the availability of water for irrigating home yards and gardens. This makes conserving water in these landscapes an important part of gardening in Montana (as well as the rest of the semiarid west). Xeriscaping is a term originally coined by Denver Water in the 80’s, and the concept has taken off in many locations since then, especially in the drier western states. The principles of Xeriscaping rely on creating a landscape that reduces and/or eliminates the need for supplemental irrigation, ideally relying on average rainfall for an area to keep plants (that are suited to this climate and precipitation) healthy and thriving.

higher irrigation requirements), incorporating thoughtful design and planning can help to conserve water in any garden landscape, from turf to trees. By intentionally planning your landscape with water conservation in mind, reducing water-intensive turfgrass to functional areas and opting for more water-efficient plants, effectively utilizing suitable

and efficient irrigation systems (such as drip and soaker hoses, where appropriate), mulching with arborist wood chips (or other suitable mulches), and appropriately maintaining the garden landscape, we can all work towards creating a more water-wise garden that is good for the environment and our wallets!

If you are interested in learning more about Xeriscapes and water-wise landscapes, check out the helpful resources included in this article:

https://apps.msuextension.org/ magazine/articles/5557

For more information about gardening in Montana (including resources and educational events around the state) visit the Montana State University Yard and Garden website:

https://www.montana.edu/ extension/yardandgarden/

Abiya (Abi) Saeed Extension Horticulture Specialist, Montana State University abiya.saeed@montana. edu

location at the Double Tree by Hilton.

Photo by Linda Iverson

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Changing of the Guard: Board Member Transitions

Outgoing Board members, thank you for your service.

James Hoiland, MNLA 2nd Vice President

The MNLA would like to thank the following individuals for their countless commitment and dedication to making the MNLA a better organization for all of us.

Outgoing Past President, for the second go round, yes, his second term of serving, Steve Lehenbauer. Steve has done so much for the continued success of the MNLA. His dedication, hard work and the countless hours he has given has helped make this organization what it is today. Not many individuals will give the dedication of serving two different five-year terms for any organization and Steve has and we thank you for it. Steve not only has served the organization well he has always gone out of his way to make new members feel welcome to the organization. Thank you for your leadership to the MNLA; you will be missed. Heck you never know, someday someone will vote you to the board when you’re not in attendance. Thank you, Steve.

Tim Groener, is our outgoing Member-at-Large, who has helped bring in new vendors, great speakers, and more than anything, a great presence of “what can I help with” attitude. Tim has assisted with

bringing educational ideas to all MNLA members, and continued support to develop the MNLA scholarship program. He has added value to the organization and will be missed. Tim thank you for your dedication, leadership to the board, and for all that you have done.

Darin Sabers unfortunately is leaving us before his role of President on the board was official. Darin and his family have moved to South Dakota to begin the next exciting chapter of their Lives. Darin was a great asset to the board and did an amazing job this last season organizing the Expo and bringing in some great speakers for all of us. Thank you Darin, for your time and commitment to the MNLA.

Laura Lambrecht joined the MNLA Board in 2021, and served a 2-year term as Secretary. As her term closes, we want to thank Laura for the years she served the Board, and for always giving us an interesting backdrop for video calls. We’ll miss guessing which airport you’ll be joining the meeting from! Thank you for your service.

Opportunity Through Education

Kristi Browning, MNLA Education Chair

Some things never change, but many things do! It’s important to keep up with what’s new in the industry so that we can offer our clients the best products and services available. That’s why MNLA offers the short course study scholarship as a member benefit.

There are lots of opportunities out there to educate yourself or your staff members in order to improve your business. The short course scholarship can help you offset the costs of training by covering up to $500 in entry fees or necessary course materials per company. Scholarship funds cannot be used for travel and board. Submit your application up to 2 months ahead of the training in order to get your approval letter from

the Board of Directors. Once you or your employee has completed the course, submit your receipts for reimbursement. Scholarship dollars are given when funding is available on a case-by-case basis. We highly recommend getting your pre-approval letter prior to the training, especially if attendance is only possible with receipt of the scholarship funds.

Which courses are eligible? Anything that is industry specific including, but not limited to: Urban IPM, continuing ed relating to industry specific licenses, learning to install pavers or irrigation, etc.

How to apply: download the application on our website. Submit the application and other required materials to our executive director at info@plantingmontana.com.

We are excited to welcome a new slate of Board members to steer the Association. These individuals bring a wide array of experience that will help them lead us through the years ahead.

Joe Sansone, Montana Sales Representative for Oldcastle APG, lives in Polson, MT, was elected to the Board of Directors as Memberat-Large. Joe grew up around the world in a military family. He attended Miami University in Ohio earning BA and MES degrees. Married to his wife Lisa, just celebrating 17 years, they have 4 children. Joe has been in the building products industry for over 20 years and hardscape products specifically for the last 18. He has worked on the installer, dealer and manufacturing sides of concrete products. Joe is interested in growing the presence of hardscape installers in the MNLA, while bringing installation and product knowledge to the Montana landscape market. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family, hiking and hanging out at Flathead Lake.

Pat Appleby, owner and operator of Compost Happens Gardening, in Florence, MT has taken on the Secretary position. Pat is a Montana farm girl who grew up riding the tractor and working cattle at their ranch north of Reed Point. During a 20-year out-of-state detour, Pat got started working in the green industry at 3 large retail nurseries in Northern Virginia. When the stars aligned to get back to Montana, the Bitterroot was the place and Earth & Wood took Pat in as part of their family. After 10 seasons and change of ownership at Earth & Wood, Pat was hired to start Canyon Creek Nursery, where she spent 5 years building that business. Pat is now back in the Bitterroot, doing a bit of consulting as Compost Happens Gardening and trying to reclaim her own yard from 5 years of being away. Pat has been an active member of the MNLA Billings Chapter, believes in the value of the MNLA, and looks forward to growing its membership base and continuing to offer value to its members while keeping learning topics and speakers relevant.

John Spray, owner and operator of John Spray Landscapes, in Billings, MT is joining us as 3rd Vice President. John earned his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from New Mexico State University, with an emphasis on Recreational Areas and Parks Management. John’s career began building golf courses throughout the country, until starting his own business in 2009. John Spray Landscapes does full landscapes and also completes contract work for drillseeding, hydroseeding, and big roll sod installation. John is interested in Board service because he believes in what the Association does to improve the industry. John has been serving as a member of the Billings Chapter planning committee, and will now pull double-duty by also serving on the Board of Directors. Thank you, John!

Over 900 varieties of trees, shrubs, evergreens and perennials.

Plants suited to the rigors of Montana’s climate and synchronized to Montana’s seasons with late spring frosts and early fall freezes.

Timely deliveries to your yard or job site throughout the planting season

Congratulations to our Newest Certified Plant Professional

Kristi Browning, MNLA Education Chair

Congratulations Caroline Wallace for becoming our newest Certified Plant professional (CPP)!

Wallace is employed at Gardenwerks in Helena, MT, and has this to say of the achievement, “My love and interest in the natural world started at a young age, growing up on an old dairy farm in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. My mother was and is an avid gardener and trees were my father’s main interest as well as his livelihood, running a hardwood lumber mill. I spent countless hours at the mill and in the woods with him, looking at trees. I decided to study landscape architecture and horticulture for a career creating outdoor spaces and working with plants. Living in Montana for the last 12 years and working as a landscape designer has introduced me to an entirely different palette of plants and it’s been a fun challenge to learn the plants and about dealing with the many challenges that face Montana gardeners. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to learn it all!”

Certification requires passing two rigorous tests, plant identification and a written test:

1. During the written portion, test takers will answer 200 multiple choice questions covering a wide

variety of topics from insect identification to plant growth requirements to fertilizers and more.

2. During the identification portion, test takers are presented with 50 numbered samples which are randomly selected from an assortment of deciduous trees and shrubs, evergreen trees and shrubs, perennials and natives from the plant lists in the CPP study manual. They must correctly identify the sample and give the common name, genus, species, and (if necessary) the cultivar name as it appears in the guide. The study manual is of course the approximate size and weight of a small car... Just kidding! It’s actually the size of a small bus... Wow, not a single laugh that time? Tough crowd. For those who have a desire to go paperless there is a .pdf version of the CPP manual accessible on the website when you are signed in using your membership credentials. If the thought of sitting in front of a screen for that long gives you hives you can also order the paper copy of the manual on our website. Students can apply for a small MNLA grant to get the CPP manual for free. At any rate, congratulations Caroline for achieving your CPP!

Hardscape/Craftsmanship Efficiency Training

May 5th, 2023 • 8:00 am-5:00 pm

The Good Earth Works

4215 US Hwy 312

Billings, MT 59105

Want to increase the number of jobs you complete in 2023? Reduce costs? Give yourself more time away from the job site?

Belgard & MNLA, working with industry experts, have developed a one day hands-on class on how to do just that. Don’t miss it, space is limited!

Cost: $125 per attendee

MNLA members $100 per attendee

RSVP to Joe Sansone, joe.sansone@oldcastle.com

Labor Shortages

…and the new opportunities that may present themselves to our businesses

James Hoiland, MNLA 2nd Vice President

Most of us in our lifetime have never, and hopefully will never have to experience again, the challenges of dealing with a pandemic. The world became a crazy, misunderstood place to live and operate a business in. Over the last couple of years, we have been presented with some challenging efforts to navigate through due to the aftermath of the pandemic. Dealing with the constant challenges and having to figure out how to cope with these challenges, has made us really look hard into the opportunities that have presented themselves to us that we normally may not have looked at. Fast forward and none of us could have imagined to problems we are facing now would be more significant than before.

The green industry is, and will continue to be, an industry that will require labor in what we do. Even though staffing has become a huge hurdle to overcome it can also create endless opportunities for us if we choose to see them. The equipment that we currently have, and the new technology that has come with it, can present a solution in helping us achieve those opportunities. This new technology, with the equipment that partners with it, can now do the job that previous generations would have never considered due to the staffing required to do these jobs. The current equipment, tools, and laser equipment offers the opportunity to do more work with less staffing, and also can create

more opportunities to interest a younger work force. With the introduction of remote-control equipment, excavator attachments, laser leveling technology, and skid steer technology with attachments, the video game era of the future work force is upon us. As business owners, we will be challenged to make some serious harsh investment decisions to help solve the labor shortages. How much am I willing to invest in new technology to help keep my business thriving? Where and what am I going to need and who can operate it? These are questions that a lot of business owners will have to answer in the upcoming seasons. Figuring out what the correct investment needs are, will open opportunities that we may never have considered.

Many of the opportunities just might be the answer to most of our labor problems. The new pieces of equipment available to do the work that may have previously taken three to four employees, now just might gain the interest of a new younger employee looking to gain a skill that may never have presented itself before.

How can we figure out what may be the correct new technology for our company? Reach out to fellow MNLA members, ask the questions that you might have about what they know, the experiences they have had, and what worked for them and challenges they may have had.

Join us in welcoming MNLA’S Newest Members!

Index to Advertisers

Reach out to your equipment suppliers and request a demonstration on a project of your choice so you can really get a feel for what it can help you with. Research, use social media to see what other around the world are using. After all, we all have technology at our disposal, we just need to use it. Once you have answered some of those questions, where do we go? Write a business plan to figure out how you are planning to get your financial support and, more importantly, how much you can plan on

generating with this new investment. Ask yourself who you can get to run it, and how to interest the younger “gamer” generation in wanting to learn the trade. All are opportunities that are now possible that we maybe never looked at before. Yes, this new equipment is expensive and a huge investment; so is hiring new employees that just aren’t out there anymore. Ball’s in your court now, what do you do with it is the magical question for all of us business owners!!

August 10, 2023

10th Annual Billings Chapter Golf Tournament – Billings, MT

September 14-15, 2023 Fall Tour – Great Falls, MT

September 14, 2023

Certified Plant Professional Exam –Great Falls, MT

January 3-5, 2024 Montana Green Expo –Billings, MT