Inside Scoop

February 2024
In This Issue

Loren McIrvin

Loren McIrvin
Allied Landscape

Unifying California Landscapers: Navigating Change Together

As California’s landscapers gear up for the approaching spring season, the call to “raise the bar” becomes more than a mere slogan; it becomes a rallying cry for unity and collective progress. To address the challenges on the horizon, the California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) emphasizes the importance of shared knowledge and best practices. Annual irrigation training stands out as a cornerstone of these efforts, ensuring that irrigation technicians and water conservation team members stay abreast of the latest technologies and practices. As the industry evolves, staying up-to-date is not just a recommendation but a vital component of best management practices. California-based contractors, facing various headwinds, find support in the CLCA. The association recognizes the dynamic nature of the landscaping industry and stands ready to assist professionals, whether they specialize in installation or landscape management. It is in this spirit of collaboration that the CLCA invites landscapers to participate in the upcoming “Irrigation Fundamentals” workshop on March 21st. This workshop, featuring industry leader Eric Santos, provides a platform for landscapers to gain insights, share experiences, and prepare for the regulatory changes ahead.

In conclusion, the need for landscapers in California to “raise the bar” is not just a directive; it’s a shared journey towards resilience and excellence. By coming together at events like the “Irrigation Fundamentals” workshop, landscapers have the opportunity to foster a community of support, ensuring the industry’s collective ability to navigate change and emerge stronger on the other side.

East Bay Chapter New Year Kick Off Networking Event

Thank you to those that joined us on January 25th for the New Year Networking Event at Calicraft Brewing Co. in Walnut Creek. Pizza and brews were generously provided by Golden Gate Truck Center while guests mingled with the 2024 Board of Directors, Chapter Partners and other landscape industry professionals.

Why a Recession Won’t Crush Landscapers

To some, there’s no word in the English language more frightening than “recession.”

Yes, Taylor St. St. Germain told NALP Leaders Forum attendees that a recession is coming. St. Germain would know: He’s an economist and speaker at ITR Economics, which offers business management consulting based on the latest economic trends in the U.S. The Leaders Forum event was held earlier this month in Mexico.

So, St. Germain admits that using the “recession” buzzword — the one that preceded an awful economy in 2008 — likely gives landscapers some PTSD. But he reassured attendees that the affect will be minimal: He projects a reduction in U.S. GDP of just 0.2% in 2024.

He tried to put that figure in perspective, adding that the U.S. economy goes into some sort of a recession every 10 years dating all the way back to World War II. Here, he’s not so concerned with how businesses may struggle in 2024; he’s more concerned they won’t be able to handle all the new business that may come their way in 2025.

Taylor St. Germain talks at the NALP Leaders Forum event in Mexico.
By Jimmy Miller

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Everde
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Be a Partner for Success!

The CLCA East Bay Chapter would like to invite you to become a Partner for Success in 2024. Being a Partner is an excellent opportunity for suppliers to gain access to potential buyers and educate licensed contractors about the latest technologies. The 2024 Partners for Success Program also includes a new contractor level.

In 2023 the chapter offered our members opportunities to network, participate in educational trainings and give back to the East Bay community with volunteer projects. CLICK HERE to read about the chapter’s 2023 accomplishments and sign up to Partner with us today!

Horizon

Upcoming Events

CLCA East Bay Chapter Events for 2024
  • Irrigation Best Practices in Design Build and Maintenance
    SAVE THE DATE
    March 21st
    11am – 12:30pm
    Details and Registration will be announced soon
  • Annual Battle of the Bay
    Oakland A’s vs. San Francisco Giants Baseball Game
    SAVE THE DATE
    Sunday, August 18th
    Tailgate: 11:30am
    First Pitch: 1:07pm
View Our Calendar
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Partner Spotlight

Belgard
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LET’S PAVE THE WAY TOGETHER.
This goes beyond turning creativity and craftsmanship into lasting outdoor spaces.
It means bringing your vision to life, together. Because with Belgard, you get more than just beautiful products, you get a partner to help you every step of the way from inspiration to installation and beyond.

Unleash your creativity and embrace the art of living well outside. Explore the Belgard Catalog today and connect with your local Belgard representative to embark on this exciting venture together:

Donald Givens
Email: donald.givens@oldcastle.com
Phone: 510-427-8017

Partners for Success

CLCA East Bay Chapter Invites you to become a partner

Read about the chapter’s 2023 accomplishments and sign up to Partner with us in 2024 today!

Become a Partner
Become a CLCA Member
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