The Latest from TurfMagazine.com

Dismiss Herbicide Now Labeled for Ornamental Applications

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 15:40:06 EST

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - Dismiss herbicide is now labeled for use as selective weed control in containers, around field-grown ornamentals or in landscape beds, FMC Professional Solutions recently announced. When applied as a directed spray around the base of the plant (do not spray over the top), the product provides control of yellow nutsedge, purple nutsedge and green kyllinga in just 24 to 48 hours...

Phil Catron Speaks at the 2013 International Bio-Pesticides Conference

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:18:47 EST

FREDERICK, Md.- Phil Catron, president and founder of NaturaLawn of America, Inc., continued to spread his agronomic knowledge at the International Bio-Pesticides Conference this year, held recently in Ottawa, Canada.

Twenty-five years ago, Catron made it his mission to raise the bar for safety standards in lawn care. NaturaLawn of America broke new ground in 1987 with its envi...

Official Tells Homeowners to Hire "Only" Licensed Contractors

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:02:21 EST

BATON ROUGE, La. - Louisiana Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M., is urging Louisiana homeowners to hire only licensed landscape horticulturists, arborists and landscape irrigation contractors when doing major landscaping work at their homes or businesses.

"Every spring and summer, 'yard specialists' claiming to be landscaping professionals be...

Deist Industries Launches New Brand Logos for All Four Divisions

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 08:32:19 EST

HADLEY, Pa. - In conjunction with Deist's Strategic Plans through 2015, the Phase II initiative starts with rebranding the corporate logo family. The roll-out of these new logos will be gradual across all areas of the business including advertisements, websites, literature and apparel.

While recognizing the company's expertise as an OEM truck body manufacturer, Phase II also...

JCB Announces Successor to CEO Alan Blake

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 12:30:34 EST

SAVANNAH, Ga. -- JCB has announced a successor to Chief Executive Officer Alan Blake who is to retire at the end of the year.

Blake, 63, joined JCB in 1989 and became CEO in 2010 after holding a number of senior positions in the company and after leading th...

Exmark Employees Raise More Than $14,000 to Fight Cancer During 2013 Relay For Life

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:39:25 EST

BEATRICE, Neb. - In honor of family members and loved ones affected by all types of cancer, Exmark employees recently raised $14,350.85 for the American Cancer Society and its mission to fight and end cancer.

The funds were raised by Exmark employees in association with the 2013 Relay for Life of Gage County - an organized, overnight community fundraising walk held April 27 at the G...

Dealing with Severe Chlorosis in Pin Oaks

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 13:02:13 EST

EAST LANSING, Mich.- Bert Cregg, Michigan State University Extension, writes in the most recent MSU Extension News that leaf

Cyperus esculentus) is a troublesome, difficult-to-control weed that is often found in turf areas. It is also called chufa, nutgrass, or watergrass.

It is important to remember that yellow nutsedge is not a grass or broadleaf weed, but a sedge. There are many sedge species, but yellow nutsedge is ...

Eric Johnson Joins Valent as Vice President of Technology

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 15:50:51 EST

WALNUT CREEK, Calif.- Valent U.S.A. Corporation has named Dr. Eric Johnson the company's new vice president of technology.

Johnson, who has led a wide range of business and technology initiatives during a three-decade career in global agriculture, will oversee all research and development functions, as well as all regulatory activities, for Valent.

Johnson joins Valen...

Bayer Anniversary Tour: Hands-on Science for All

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 10:17:49 EST

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. - This week, a major exhibition to mark the 150th anniversary of Bayer is at Bayer CropScience's North American headquarters in Research Triangle Park, N.C., as part of a world tour taking the interactive show to some 30 venues in Europe, America, Asia, Africa and Australia. The mission, Bayer: Science For A Better Life, is the theme of the exhibition, which gives gues...

Toro Supports Renewal & Remembrance Event

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 10:12:23 EST

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. - Toro is proud to participate in the Professional Landcare Network's (PLANET) 17th Annual Renewal and Remembrance landscaping event July 22, 2013, at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

For the second year in a row, Toro, along with its distributo...

Agri-Inject Celebrates 30 Years of Service

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 15:12:19 EST

YUMA, Colo. - Gary Newton remembers the very moment the concept of chemigation came to him. "In 1969, I was swathing some hay next to one of my sprinklers I had just installed. I looked back and saw the sprinkler covering the entire field with just one pass," he said. "I thought that had to be better than making multiple passes across the field to apply fertilizer or crop protection...

Three Military Veterans Join U.S. Lawns

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 14:21:54 EST

ORLANDO, Fla. - U.S. Lawns reaches out to military veterans with financial assistance and guidance to help them start and grow their new businesses.

"Three out of five of our new franchisees that attended training in May were military veterans," said U.S. Lawns President Ken Hutcheson. "We are always honoured to welcome more military veterans to our family."
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Hunter Offers Chance to Win a Trip to the 2013 Irrigation Association Show

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 14:14:44 EST

SAN MARCOS, Calif. - In an effort to get the irrigation industry focused on water conservation and Smart Irrigation Month, Hunter Industries is offering professionals a chance to win a free trip to the 2013 Irrigation Association show in Austin, Texas. Details for the promotion can be found at hunterindustries.com/smartirri...

2013 Exmark Mow & Go with Hank Parker Sweepstakes Announces Winners

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 11:20:39 EST

BEATRICE, Neb. - After receiving more than 8,000 entries from folks drawn to the prospect of winning a dream fishing trip with a two-time Bassmaster Classic champion, a zero-turn riding mower or a new kayak, Exmark has announced the winners of its third-annual Mow & Go with Hank Parker Sweepstakes.

The Grand Prize winner - Robert Stevens of Humble, Texas - will fish with Ha...

Dismiss CA Turf Herbicide Now Registered in California and Arizona

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 11:15:08 EST

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - FMC Professional Solutions has announced that Dismiss CA Turf herbicide is now registered for use in California and Arizona. Turf professionals in both states can apply the product for fast, visible control of sedges like yellow nutsedge, purple nutsedge and gr...

New Holland Partners with "NASCAR: An American Salute" in Support of Military Heroes

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 08:30:29 EST

NEW HOLLAND, Pa. - In honor and memory of our nation's Armed Forces, New Holland, the official agricultural equipment of NASCAR, is partnering with "NASCAR: An American Salute" in grateful recognition of the courage, service and sacrifice of the nation's military and their families.

Visitors to New Holland's True Blue Salute website are invited to show their appr...

Takeuchi-US Announces New Midwest Regional Business Manager

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 14:47:08 EST

ATLANTA, Ga. - Takeuchi-US has appointed Paul Kindelspire to the position of Midwest regional business manager. In his new role, Kindelspire will be responsible for the development and activities of existing dealers, along with new dealer recruitment in his assigned ter...

More States, Cities Proclaim July as Smart Irrigation Month

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 10:06:02 EST

FALLS CHURCH, Va. - Idaho, Indiana, Missouri, Oklahoma and Virginia have joined Colorado in officially recognizing July 2013 as Smart Irrigation Month, adding to the rapidly growing list of state and municipal supporters of the industry-wide initiative started by the Irrigation Association in 2005.

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon recently issued that state's proclamation, which wa...

ECHO and Agency Win Effie Award for Advertising Campaign

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 09:33:35 EST

CHICAGO, Ill. - ECHO Outdoor Power Equipment and its agency, Cramer-Krasselt, have received a gold Effie Award for ECHO's 2012 national advertising campaign at the 45th Annual Effie Awards Gala on May 22 in New York City.

ECHO and Cramer-Krasselt won the top award in the category of Household Supplies & Services. Proctor & Gamble won silver for its Febreze "Grey New Yor...

Dow AgroSciences Offers Online Training Program

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 15:03:55 EST

INDIANAPOLIS - Dow AgroSciences Turf & Ornamental, based here, is offering online training for lawn care operators who want to brush up on products and services. This three-part, interactive course provides key insights on preemergence and postemergence herbicides and applications, as well as insecticides and fungicides.

Each course takes approximately 30 minutes to complete and...

PGMS Lining Up School of Grounds Management for GIE+EXPO

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 11:11:13 EST

BALTIMORE - Grounds professionals looking to get the most up to date information on sustainability, particularity the latest in organic materials, techniques and practices, should make sure they are in Louisville Oct. 23-26 for the Professional Grounds Management Society's (PGMS) highly anticipated 2013 School of Grounds Management & GIE+EXPO. "Organic" is the bu...

Monster Tree Service Signs First Franchisee

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 08:32:44 EST

FORT WASHINGTON, Pa.-Monster Tree Service (MTS), based here, opened its first franchise location to service both David and Weber County, Utah. Ryan Rigby, the first franchisee in the system, began service on June 3, 2013.

"We're very excited and proud to announce that Ryan will be joining our team as a franchisee," said Josh Skolnick, Founder and CEO of MTS. "We ...

Jones Lang LaSalle Honors ValleyCrest for Innovation

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 08:29:45 EST

ValleyCrest Landscape Companies has been named a "Supplier of Distinction" by professional services and investment management firm Jones Lang LaSalle. Jones Lang LaSalle's Supplier of Distinction award recognizes suppliers that have played vital roles in elevating the firm's ability to deliver the highest caliber of service, value and innovation to
its corporate client...

Netafim Wins 2013 Stockholm Industry Water Award

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 08:18:44 EST

Netafim has been named the 2013 Stockholm Industry Water Award laureate. The commendation will be presented at a World Water Week ceremony in Stockholm, Sweden, on Sept. 3.

The prestigious award recognizes Netafim's innovative approaches to sustainable water management and the development of new products and technologies in agricultural irrigation that help mitigate world hunger. <...

Schiller Introduces Ryan GreatEST Aerator Giveaway

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 08:13:33 EST

Schiller Grounds Care, Inc., manufacturer of BOB-CAT, Classen, Little Wonder, Mantis, Ryan and Steiner brand outdoor power equipment, announces a Ryan brand aerator giveaway promotion that will net one lucky lawn care professional a brand-new Lawnaire V Aerator with new Easy Steer Technology (EST).

The Ryan Lawnaire V with EST is a commercial steerable aera...

Bill Introduced to Adjust LNG Tax Rate

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 06:37:07 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Two U.S. representatives have introduced a bill aimed at equalizing federal fuel taxes between diesel fuel and liquefied natural gas (LNG). The bill, the "LNG Excise Tax Equalization Act of 2013" (H.R. 2202), was introduced into the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Mac Thornberry (R-TX) and John Larson (D-CT). Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC) wil...

Ruppert Landscape Hires Carol Zazeski as Systems Support Manager

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 14:31:16 EST

LAYTONSVILLE, Md. - Ruppert Landscape recently hired Carol Zazeski as information system support manager responsible for user support and providing software solutions for Ruppert's business units within the company's 15 branch offices.

Zaz...

Project EverGreen/Birds & Blooms Magazine Contest Winners Announced

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 14:12:24 EST

Twelve contest winners from nine states have been chosen as winners of the third annual Art of Green Spaces poster contest sponsored by Project EverGreen and Birds & Blooms magazine, a Reader's Digest publication. In all, 1,350 posters from 38 states were entered in the national contest.

"Three years into the Art of Green Spaces poster competition, we continue to be stunned by t...

Turfgrass Getting its Due in D.C.

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 09:45:36 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. National Arboretum May 16 announced a new approach to provide science-based information to visitors and the public. A new initiative called Grass Roots will focus for the next four years on the uses, benefits and role of turfgrass as it relates to the economy, the environment and society.

The project will include an onsite outdoor exhibit, symposia, works...

ONLA Names Amy Eldridge as CENTS Manager

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 09:41:43 EST

WESTERVILLE, Ohio-The Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association is pleased to announce its recent hire of Amy Eldridge, who joins the ONLA team as CENTS manager. In this role, Eldridge will develop and manage strategies to provide top-flight exhibitor and attendee experiences at the Midwest's premier nursery, landscape and garden center convention.

CENTS Marketplace is scheduled for ...

Lawn Doctor Co-Owner Discusses Lawn Care Success

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 00:00:00 EST

ANTIOCH, Ill. - Chris and Julie Shkyria are co-owners of Lawn Doctor of Northern Illinois. Recently reporter Kim Mikus of the Daily Herald, Suburban Chicago's Information Source, interviewed Chris Shkyria about the couple's experiences and lawn care successes. It's a nice interview and an encouraging stor...

Judy Altmaier Takes Over as Exmark GM

Tue, 4 Jun 2013 17:11:28 EST

BEATRICE, Neb. - Exmark Manufacturing, headquartered here, recently appointed Judy Altmaier to the position of general manager for Exmark Manufacturing Company. She will be moving to Nebraska within the next few weeks. Altmaier replaces Rick Olson, who was promoted to head up the International Division of The Toro Company.

Prior to accepting this position, Altmaier has been vic...

Landscapes USA Acquires Nashville's Peach Tree

Tue, 4 Jun 2013 16:18:35 EST

AUSTIN, Texas - LUSA Holdings, LLC. (Landscapes USA), based here, recently completed the acquisition of Peach Tree Landscapes in Nashville, Tenn.

Peach Tree, a 15-year-old company with about 100 employees, provides landscape maintenance and design-build services to office, retail, industrial, multi-family and high-end residential clients. Peach Tree, founded and run by Bryan Cl...

SIMA Symposium to Get Off to Strong Start June 19

Tue, 4 Jun 2013 16:05:59 EST

MINNEAPOLIS - SIMA heads to Minnesota June 19-22 for the 16th Annual Snow & Ice Symposium. The SIMA and Snow Business magazine staffs are looking forward to seeing you there! We have a lot of great networking and educational opportunities planned. Check out all the highlights-including a jam-packed two-day trade show-here...

Rain Bird to Give Away $2,000 in Product as Part of Groundwater Guardian Green Sites Sponsorship

Tue, 4 Jun 2013 11:07:18 EST

The Groundwater Foundation's Green Sites program celebrates groundwater stewardship and encourages green sites to adopt responsible groundwater practices. As a 2013 sponsor of this important program, Rain Bird will give away $2,000 worth of irrigation products to one lucky green space that applies for Green Site designation by Sept. 16, 2013.

The Groundwater Guardian Green Sites pro...

The Awesome Benefits of Aggressive Tinkering

Mon, 3 Jun 2013 08:25:15 EST

I'm a voracious but, admittedly, undisciplined reader. History. Psychology. Hard science. Economics. If I find the title and the blurb on the dust jacket compelling, I dig in. I'm just now finishing "The Black Swan" by Nassim Nicholas Taleb, a Lebanese-born writer and philosopher. Taleb is a former Wall Street trader (very successful trader) who has gained fame writing about unpredi...

New Personnel Join Dow AgroSciences Turf & Ornamental Business

Thu, 30 May 2013 15:36:50 EST

Dow AgroSciences recently named Tom Linnen to the position of portfolio marketing leader for the U.S. Turf & Ornamental (T&O) business division.

In his new role, Linnen will manage the portfolio strategies for all herbicides, insecticides and fungicides in the T&...

Additional Free Concerts Announced for GIE+EXPO 2013

Thu, 30 May 2013 11:51:43 EST

GIE+EXPO announces four additional performers for the GIE+EXPO concert series. The Jamie McLean Band will perform before Craig Morgan on Wednesday, Oct. 23. Angie Johnson, former contestant on The Voice, will open for Three Dog Night on Thursday, Oct. 24. Holly Williams, daughter of Hank Williams Jr., will perform Friday, Oct. 25, with special guest and returning performer, Olivia Henken.

Spring Valley Promotes Dave Wacker to General Manager

Thu, 30 May 2013 10:13:40 EST

Spring Valley, an industry leader in premium turf fertilizers and ice melters for the retail and professional green industries, announced the promotion of Dave Wacker to general manager on May 13. Wacker has been with Spring Valley for three years and previously held the role of sales manager.

Grounds professionals from around the country will meet in Philadelphia for this exclusive opportunity to tour one of the most notorious baseball stadiums in the country, Citizens Bank Park, home of the Ph...

B3C Fuel Solutions Announces Canadian Distributorship with HSI

Wed, 29 May 2013 11:32:42 EST

B3C Fuel Solutions, LLC, a manufacturer of environmentally friendly products and solutions for ethanol and bio-fuel related problems, has announced that HSI, a division of Hydraulic Source, Inc., is the exclusive distributor of B3C's core line of fuel solution products in Canada.

This Canadian relationship complements B3C's recent international expansion into Austra...

Kaercher Hired to Fill Newly Created Position of GL Accountant at Ruppert

Wed, 29 May 2013 10:36:48 EST

Ruppert Landscape is pleased to announce the addition of Mark Kaercher as a GL accountant at the corporate location.

Kaercher brings over 25 years of accounting experience to his role as GL accountant. In this newly created position, he will be responsible for account recon...

WSSA Gives a Shout Out to Cooperative Extension

Tue, 28 May 2013 16:41:32 EST

The U.S. Cooperative Extension Program is approaching its 100-year anniversary - an important milestone for an organization that has helped to transform American agriculture since its founding in May 1914. Through the years, extension agents have taught farmers how to manage crops more efficiently, win the battle against weeds and other pests, and produce significantly more food per acr...

U.S. Lawns Adds Six Franchisees in May

Tue, 28 May 2013 14:49:51 EST

Six new U.S. Lawns franchisees came to Orlando from five locations across the country to attend New Franchise Training at the U.S. Lawns Home Office in Orlando, Fla.

U.S. Lawns continues to grow, just like the grass that it cuts. Commercial landscape management is a beacon to entrepreneurs, and the backing of an industry leading franchise is a strong draw.

...

IA Gears Up for Smart Irrigation Month & Smart Marketing Contest

Tue, 28 May 2013 13:15:01 EST

The Irrigation Association is pleased to announce preparations for Smart Irrigation Month, an initiative dedicated to increasing public awareness of the value of water-use efficiency, water-saving products, practices and services. All industry professionals and companies are invited to participate.

Taking place in July, traditionally the month of peak water demand in Nor...

Steve Meriam Named STIHL, Inc. Director of Sales

Tue, 28 May 2013 12:39:47 EST

STIHL, Inc. has announced the promotion of Steve Meriam to the position of director of sales. In his new position, Meriam will manage the continued growth of the STIHL brand and improvements in product sales and distribution here in the U.S.

Meriam began his career with forestry and logging jobs in Canada. He was appointed to territory manager of Manitoba and Saskatchewan for S...

KOMPAN North America Selects EasyTurf as Artificial Turf Supplier

Tue, 28 May 2013 09:25:33 EST

VISTA, Calif.- EasyTurf, Inc., headquartered here, has been selected by playground industry leader KOMPAN North America, Inc. to be the exclusive supplier of artificial grass for its nationwide playground construction projects.

In recent years, synthetic turf has become the preferred landscape design solution for playground applications, surpassing sod and other natural landsca...

Spring-Green Lawn Care Salutes Veterans on Memorial Day

Fri, 24 May 2013 12:19:27 EST

Plainfield, Ill. - Memorial Day is a special occasion for Spring-Green Lawn Care, as the company's military roots run deep. Veterans who hold corporate leadership positions and those who own franchises have made a significant contribution to the lawn care company's success. In fact, Spring-Green's chairman Tom Hofer is a Navy veteran himself.

Hofer is proud of his military back...

Spectrum Receives AE50 Gold Award

Thu, 23 May 2013 15:03:44 EST

Spectrum Technologies, Inc. has been honored with the prestigious AE50 Gold Award from the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE). The AE50 awards recognize leadership in technological innovation, with the Gold Award highlighting the best of the best among new products. A leading manufacturer of weather stations, data loggers and hand-held measurement devices, Spectrum w...

MillerCoors' Kim Marotta to Keynote WaterSmart Innovations' Opening Session

Thu, 23 May 2013 12:59:26 EST

Kim Marotta, vice president for corporate social responsibility at MillerCoors, will deliver the keynote address at the opening session for the 6th Annual WaterSmart Innovations (WSI) Conference and Exposition in Las Vegas on Wednesday, October 2.

The largest urban-water efficiency event of its kind, WSI is slated for October 2-4 at the South Point Hotel and Conference Center. "Earl...

TBEI Lake Crystal Facility Achieves ISO 9001:2008 Certification

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:42:39 EST

Truck Bodies & Equipment International, Inc.'s Lake Crystal, Minn., facility has achieved ISO 9001:2008 Certification. The Lake Crystal facility is home to TBEI's corporate offices, and manufactures Crysteel, J-Craft and Ox SuperDump products.

"This certification is the result of a lot of hard work by our incredibly talented team," said Joe Paulsen, TBEI Lake Crystal ge...

Land & Coates Receives Achievement Award from Toro

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:35:22 EST

Land & Coates of Norfolk, Va., has earned the prestigious President's Elite Award for 2012 from the Toro Company. This annual award is presented to qualifying dealers in recognition of exceptional sales of residential lawn landscape contractor equipment.

"This year's President's Elite award winners represent our best dealers in Toro's sales and service network across the U...

New AgriLife Extension State Turf Specialist Hired

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:16:46 EST

Dr. Casey Reynolds has been named the new Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service state turf specialist and will begin July 1, according to Dr. Travis Miller, Texas A&M University soil and crop sciences associate department head in College Station. Reynolds will be headquartered in College Station in the department of soil and crop sciences.

Reynolds is coming to Texas af...

New Ornamentals Added to Label for Dimension 2EW Specialty Herbicide

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:10:08 EST

More than 90 ornamental cultivars have been added to the label for Dimension 2EW specialty herbicide, bringing the total list of tolerant ornamentals to 444. Now, turf professionals and nursery managers can apply Dimension 2EW with even more confidence in controlling key weeds while ensuring crop safety.

New tolerant ornamentals added to the label include: European white birch, bloo...

Oregon Seed Association Unveils New, Enhanced Website

Wed, 22 May 2013 09:54:45 EST

Filled with new features, including industry news and useful resources, the Oregon Seed Association (OSA) has announces the launch of its new and improved website.

"The Oregon Seed Association's new website is a useful resource for Oregon's agricultural seed community and our members," said OSA President Duane Klundt. "We're proud of our enhanced Web presence and hope it helps bette...

Ventrac Products Presented with Presidential Export Award

Wed, 22 May 2013 09:49:52 EST

U.S. Acting Secretary of Commerce Rebecca Blank has presented Venture Products, Inc. with the President's "E" Award for Exports at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. The "E" Awards are the highest recognition any U.S. entity may receive for making a significant contribution to the expansion of U.S. exports.

"I am delighted to be recognizing this year's Presidential 'E' Award winners fo...

Hunter Presents Trailblazer Awards

Tue, 21 May 2013 11:38:47 EST

Hunter recently presented several industry leaders with their prestigious Trailblazer Award.

With a tradition of recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the irrigation industry, Hunter honors a select group of professionals annually to receive the award. The Trailblazer Award is meant to showcase professionals whose innovation, leadership, and forward thin...

Jacobsen Helping Prepare Next Generation of Turf Managers for Successful Careers

Tue, 21 May 2013 09:46:56 EST

Last week, Jacobsen, a Textron Company, hosted over 20 college seniors from top turfgrass programs around the world as part of its Future Turf Managers event.

The annual event gives students a unique opportunity to network with turfgrass industry professionals at the highest level...

Daedong Industrial Company Celebrates 60 Years of Innovation

Tue, 21 May 2013 08:22:52 EST

Daedong Industrial Company, LTD., a leader in global agricultural manufacturing, celebrated 66 years of driving clean technologies on May 20. The anniversary comes one month after their newly launched Tier 4 ECO Engine was EPA certified, making Daedong Industrial the first South Korean Tier IV engine manufacturer to receive the certification.

Daedong Industrial has been a lead...

Shrinking Plants More Evidence of Climate Change?

Mon, 20 May 2013 15:26:57 EST

RENO, Nev. - Plants are shrinking in the Great Basin of Nevada, and warming climate could be the culprit, according to a paper published in the renowned science journal Global Change Biology based on research conducted by University of Nevada, Reno plant ecologist Beth Leger.

Terex AWP Announces Appointments

Mon, 20 May 2013 13:30:34 EST

Terex Aerial Work Platforms (AWP), a business segment of Terex Corporation, has appointed Karen Stash as senior product manager. In this role, Stash will lead the team responsible for Genie scissor lifts, portable units, trailer-mounted booms and Terex light towers.

Fogarty Named TOCA Environmental Communicator of the Year

Mon, 20 May 2013 11:46:37 EST

PORTLAND, Ore. - Phil Fogarty, Weed Man sub-master franchisor, Euclid, Ohio, and active in environmental issues through such associations as Project EverGreen and PLANET, has been named the 2013 Turf & Ornamental Communicators Association (TOCA) Environmental Communicator of the Year.

Fogarty, also owner of Crowley's Vegetation Management, received the honor at the ...

Greg Parker Named Brand/Specification Manager at Underhill International

Mon, 20 May 2013 08:15:27 EST

Greg Parker has been named the new brand and specifications manager for the Underhill International's 2Wire and Mirage Series product lines.

Parker will oversee research and development of 2Wire and Mirage irrigation systems, while providing technical training and marketing suppo...

OPEI Awards $5,000 Grant to Paducah, Ky., School

Fri, 17 May 2013 13:41:08 EST

Discovery Education and the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI)'s Education Foundation has announced the Grand Prize winner and two runners-up of TurfMutt's second annual national "Spruce Up Your School" sweepstakes.

The national TurfMutt program, named after Lucky, a real-life rescue dog, is a dynamic digital curriculum that ...

Ferrandino & Son to Stream Free "Snow Removal RFP Best Practices" Webinar

Fri, 17 May 2013 09:23:45 EST

In an effort to share best practices in snow removal, and help companies better prepare for organizing, issuing and reviewing the results of Snow RFPs, Ferrandino & Son will broadcast a "Snow Removal Best Practices" Webinar on Thursday, June 13, 2013, from 1-2 p.m. EST.

These best practices will be addressed in this free, one-hour webinar:

Best Practices for Run...

PLANET Honors David Snodgrass with Lifetime Achievement Award

Fri, 17 May 2013 08:58:28 EST

HERNDON, Va. - The Professional Landcare Network (PLANET), headquartered here, presented David Snodgrass with its Lifetime Leadership Award. PLANET honors individuals who have improved the green industry and inspired others throughout their careers with their pioneering spirit and de...

Bayer CropScience Plans Herbicide Production Plant in Alabama

Fri, 17 May 2013 08:07:56 EST

MOBILE, Ala. - Bayer CropScience plans to construct a world-scale glufosinate-ammonium herbicide production plant near here, estimated to create about 180 jobs. The company said its new facility will contribute significantly to the company's target of more than doubling global production capacity for its crop herbicide.

The start-up of the new plant is anticipated for the fourt...

LandOpt Network Adds Mississippi Contractor

Thu, 16 May 2013 14:30:51 EST

SGK Landscapes, Inc. has joined the LandOpt Contractor Network, becoming the first LandOpt Contractor in the state of Mississippi and further expanding the national landscape contractor network's burgeoning southeast region.

Starkville-based SGK was established in 2002 by owner Michael Everett who has grown the company to become one of the leading landscape service providers i...

EETC Accredits El Campo High School

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:14:40 EST

In an effort to increase the amount of power equipment technicians for our industry, the Equipment & Engine Training Council has recently accredited El Campo High School in El Campo, Texas. This brings the number of accredited outdoor power equipment training programs to 73 throughout North America.

"We are very excited to become an accredited training program wi...

Sixth Annual Hardscape Project Awards Now Accepting Entries

Thu, 16 May 2013 08:16:14 EST

Hardscape North America is now accepting entries for the 6th Annual HNA Hardscape Project Awards to be presented during HNA 2013 Awards Breakfast being held on Friday Oct. 25, 2013, at the Hyatt Regency Louisville in Louisville, Ky.

The HNA Hardscape Project Awards recognize a contractor's ability to create outstanding hardscape projects. Twenty-four award categories include r...

Albuquerque Based Mud Monsters Pond and Landscape Supply Assumes New Ownership

Thu, 16 May 2013 08:08:59 EST

Mud Monsters Pond and Landscape Supply, based in Albuquerque, N.M., has been sold to Randy Kindrick. Kindrick has been managing Mud Monsters for the past four years and acquired the business from Savio Engineering owners Keith and Valerie Steele. The Steeles have decided to solely concentrate efforts on Savio Engineering and recently expanded their business opening a second east coast location in ...

NJLCA Annual Scholarship Program Open

Thu, 16 May 2013 08:06:00 EST

The New Jersey Landscape Contractors Association (NJLCA) is pleased to announce that the association is now accepting applications for 2013-14 scholarships. The scholarship program is funded by the NJLCA, along with a portion of the proceeds of the NJLCA/IANJ Annual Golf Challenge each September.

This scholarship fund was established by the NJLCA to: 1) aid outstanding stude...

RISE Supports Lyme Disease Awareness in Connecticut

Wed, 15 May 2013 10:38:37 EST

On May 14, RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment) joined Lyme disease survivors and other stakeholder organizations to share knowledge and build awareness of the importance of tick-borne illness prevention at the 2013 CT Lyme Disease Seminar and Health Fair. The free, public event was hosted by the Ridgefield Lyme Disease Task Force on the campus of Western Connecticut State Universit...

Study Compares Recent Texas Drought to 1950s Woody Plant Dieback

Tue, 14 May 2013 18:15:07 EST

COLLEGE STATION, Texas - Scientists with Texas A&M University and Texas A&M AgriLife Research had a unique opportunity to compare recent patterns of drought-induced woody plant mortality on the Edwards Plateau in Texas to the extended drought of the 1950s.

Dr. Bill Rogers, an associate professor in the Texas A&M ecosystem science and management department, said it i...

Sustainability Revisited in Portland

Tue, 14 May 2013 11:36:40 EST

The significance of sustainability in the landscape industry varies widely from region to region within the United States and Canada. Where I live in a rural northwest Ohio discussions about sustainability in relation to the landscape/lawn service industry don't come up very often. It's not that we're backward. It's mostly because the region is dominated by thousands of acres corn and soybean...

TruGreen's First-Quarter Results 'Disappointing'

Tue, 14 May 2013 10:17:44 EST

MEMPHIS, Tenn.-The ServiceMaster Company, one of the world's largest residential service networks, today announced preliminary unaudited first-quarter 2013 results, including operating revenue of $608 million, a decline of 7.1 percent compared to the same period in 2012. The company reported first-quarter 2013 operating income of $20 million, a decline of 63.2 percent compared to the same per...

Bobcat Company Breaks Ground on $20 Million Expansion Project

Tue, 14 May 2013 08:02:15 EST

Bobcat Company has officially broken ground on its $20 million renovation and expansion to create the Acceleration Center in Bismarck, N.D. When complete, the Acceleration Center will be a modern complex for advancing innovation where professionals utilize technology and modern design to ensure the position of Bobcat as the leader in the compact equipment industry.

The project...

Bayer CropScience Celebrates Opening of New Development Facilities, Laboratories

Tue, 14 May 2013 07:53:33 EST

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.- Bayer CropScience celebrated the opening of its new Development North America facilities and laboratories this past week. These facilities boast 40,000 square feet of space in which nearly 70 scientists will conduct crop protection and environmental science research, including pest and turf and ornamentals management.

The renovations and remodeling...

Scott's Miracle-Gro Removes Phosphorus from Turf Builder Fertilizer Line

Mon, 13 May 2013 12:52:07 EST

MARYSVILLE, Ohio - Scotts Miracle-Gro, based here, has removed phosphorus from its Turf Builder line of lawn fertilizer to help reduce the type of harmful algae blooms that have plagued waterways such as Grand Lake St. Marys and Lake Erie.

The maker of lawn-and-garden products sees the move as a milestone for its industry, which it says is partly responsible for the phosphoru...

Juniper Systems Celebrates its 20th Anniversary

Mon, 13 May 2013 12:39:27 EST

This year Juniper Systems is celebrating its 20th year in business. Founded in 1993 by Ron Campbell, the company continues to be operated by members of the Campbell family. Campbell's son, Rob, has served as president of Juniper Systems since 2001.

Juniper Systems' rugged hand-held computers are evidence of their pursuit of quality. Each unit has an IP67 rating for dust an...

Enhance Your Irrigation Skills with Summer Training Courses from Rain Bird Services

Mon, 13 May 2013 11:06:23 EST

Irrigation season is upon us, and this summer, both new and experienced irrigation professionals can enhance their skills by attending training provided by Rain Bird Services.

Over the next few months, Rain Bird Services will host irrigation training courses at more than 20 locations across the country. The company has two core irrigation training programs. Rain Bird's Factory Train...

John Deere Introduces GreenFleet Loyalty Rewards

Sun, 12 May 2013 09:43:57 EST

CARY, N.C. - John Deere announces the launch of the GreenFleet Loyalty Rewards program to offer benefits to devoted customers. The program rewards loyal John Deere customers and help them manage their equipment more easily and cost-effectively.

"We are fortunate to have...

MRM Editorial Director Larry Aylward Honored

Fri, 10 May 2013 12:56:31 EST

PORTLAND, Ore. - Larry Aylward, editor director of Moose River Media (MRM), earned the inaugural Plant Health Writer of the Year Award at the annual conference of the Turf & Ornamental Communicators Association (TOCA) here Thursday, May 9. (pictured righ...

Indiana Facility Transforms Wastewater into Lawn Fertilizer

Fri, 10 May 2013 12:02:55 EST

Spring gardeners, lawn manicurists and nursery folk of all varieties on the hunt for cheap fertilizer this planting season need look no farther than the wastewater treatment facility in Greenfield, Ind., where there is an ample supply that will not run out anytime soon.

Stored in two open-air storage barns, numerous 12-foot-high piles of "Class A" biosolids processed...

Scotts LawnService Opens Three New Franchise Locations

Fri, 10 May 2013 11:40:08 EST

The Scotts LawnService continues to expand the Scotts LawnService brand in new territories through franchising. New locations will soon be opening in Casper, Wyo., College Station, Texas, and Keene, N.H.

Scotts LawnService serves the "do-it-for-me" consumer in the U.S. with on-site lawn, tree and shrub fertilization, insect control and other related services. They have th...

Turfgrass Specialist Receives Clemson's Top Agriculture Honor

Fri, 10 May 2013 08:17:48 EST

If you ever killed weeds in your lawn, watched your kids play on public athletic fields, sunk a 15-foot putt on a perfect green or rooted for your favorite team playing on its home turf, then you have come in contact with Bert McCarty's work.

McCarty is internationally recognized for his expertise in turfgrass maintenance and sod production. He is the 2012 recipient of C...

Snowfighters Institute Sales Training Forum

Fri, 10 May 2013 08:04:45 EST

ERIE, Pa. - The Snowfighters Institute is holding an enhanced sales training forum from May 20 - 23 at the newly constructed training facility here., and will be led by Judith Guido, chairwoman of Guido & Associates, and John Allin of John Allin Consulting.

Attendees will learn how to position and...

Bill Banning Ethanol Wins Support from Maine House

Thu, 9 May 2013 09:31:18 EST

The Maine House took a decisive stance against blending ethanol into gasoline, giving initial approval to a bill that would ban the corn-based additive from motor fuel if two other New England states pass similar laws.

In addition, the House unanimously endorsed a resolution urging the federal government not to require gasoline containing 15 percent ethanol, a blend known as E15. T...

TruGreen's Karen Burdett Shortlisted for Award

Thu, 9 May 2013 09:00:01 EST

TruGreen Professional Lawn Care's Karen Burdett has been shortlisted in the New Woman Franchisee of the Year category for this years' Encouraging Women Into Franchising (EWIF) Awards.

Burdett, whose franchise covers Milton Keynes and West Northants, set up her business last April after working in a commercial environment for more than 20 years. She wanted to find an investment oppor...

Southern Botanical Hosts Chinese Horticulture Exchange Group, Guides Garden Tours

Thu, 9 May 2013 08:34:19 EST

Southern Botanical, Inc. hosted a group of college professors from China as part of an international exchange program developed at Texas A&M University. The program, run by the Texas A&M Department of Horticulture, is partially funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Participants represented several chinese universities, including:&nbs...

Actor and Philanthropist Paul Walker and Reach Out Worldwide Visit STIHL, Inc.

Wed, 8 May 2013 15:51:29 EST

Actor and philanthropist Paul Walker recently visited the Virginia Beach, Va., headquarters of STIHL, Inc. to thank the company for its support of his relief organization Reach Out Worldwide (ROWW), a network of professionals with first-responder skill sets. STIHL, Inc. is the exclusive hand-held outdoor power equipme...

PLANET Announces National Come Alive Outside Sales Workshop in June

Wed, 8 May 2013 14:21:45 EST

PLANET has partnered with JP Horizons to host a national sales training and business building workshop at the acclaimed Gibbs Gardens, in Atlanta, Ga., June 13-14.

The two-day educational event will incorporate an outdoor learning experience at Gibbs Gardens along with peer-to-peer interaction and activities to share the best sales successes in the profession today. Sales Jam 2013...

Dr. Jared Hoyle Joins KSU as Extension Turfgrass Specialist

Wed, 8 May 2013 13:37:23 EST

Dr. Jared Hoyle has joined the KSU Turf Team as extension turfgrass specialist for the state of Kansas.

Hoyle earned his B.S. in horticulture science in 2006 and an M.S. in crop science in 2009, both from North Carolina State University. He focused his research on the influence o...

Robert Harry Named LaWN Person of the Year

Wed, 8 May 2013 11:48:29 EST

Congratulations to Robert "B.J." Harry of Stano Landscaping, Inc. for winning the Lawns of Wisconsin Network (LaWN) Employee of the Year Award. This is a well-deserved honor for his achievements over the last two years at Stano Landscaping, Inc.

CLCA Executive Director Stepping Down June 9

Wed, 8 May 2013 07:30:47 EST

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Sharon McGuire, executive director of the California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA), is retiring June 9, 2013, to spend more time with her family and her grandson. McGuire started with the Association in 1980 and was appointed executive director in 1986, Executive Director Larry Rohlfes will serve as interim executive director, effective June 9 until a replaceme...

Margaret Frith Dies; Wife of Lawn Doctor's Russ Frith

Wed, 8 May 2013 07:12:13 EST

Margaret Frith, wife of Lawn Doctor founder Russ Frith and mother of CEO Scott Frith died April 27 in Florida. Her obituary:

Margaret Isabel Frith, 67, of Estero, FL and Brielle, N.J. passed away at Gulf Coast Medical Center, Ft. Meyers, FL with her family by her side. Margaret was born and raised in Altoona, PA and had lived in Philadelphia and Bucks County before moving to Ja...

Top Care Wins CLEAN Award from Missouri Propane Education & Research Council

Tue, 7 May 2013 08:16:41 EST

Top Care, a landscape contractor in Fenton, Mo., has won a CLEAN Award from the Missouri Propane Education & Research Council. CLEAN stands for Community Leadership in Environmental Awareness Now.

Top Care has run 15 propane-powered Exmark commercial mowers in its fleet for the past two years. The company is looking to expand that number this year, citing lower operating costs ...

Douglas Dynamics Acquires Assets of TrynEx

Tue, 7 May 2013 08:03:30 EST

Douglas Dynamics, Inc. has completed the acquisition of substantially all the assets of TrynEx, Inc., the leader in truck-mounted salt and sand spreader equipment under the brand name SnowEx. TrynEx also provides turf application and industrial attachment products under the brand names TurfEx and SweepEx.

Douglas Dynamics acquired substantially all the assets for a purchase price ...

Hustler Turf Equipment Introduces Extended Service Plan

Mon, 6 May 2013 10:04:50 EST

Hustler Turf now offers the Hustler Extended Service Plan (ESP) on non-commercial warranties for most zero-turn mowers the company offers.

Hustler ESP is unique in that it will be managed and facilitated by Hustler, not a third party. The plan will extend the original Hustler factory warranty for up to two years on qualifying models equipped with Kawasaki engines and will e...

Rodger Howe Promoted to Executive Director at Kawasaki's Engines and Power Products Division

Mon, 6 May 2013 10:01:18 EST

Rodger Howe, a veteran Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. executive, has been promoted to executive director of Kawasaki's Engines and Power Products Division. Howe, who spent 18 years in sales and marketing of the company's consumer products, has held senior management positions with the division since 2005. His most recent title was senior director, operations.

Howe, who has held manag...

MultiGuard Protect Nematicide Expands Distribution Network

Fri, 3 May 2013 15:58:46 EST

Agriguard Company, LLC has announced sales and distribution expansion for its MultiGuard Protect contact nematicide. The expanded network will provide wider availability across the major nematode-prone regions of North America. Multiguard Protect is a registered contact nematicide for use on golf course greens, tees, fairways and roughs. It is also registered for use on sports fields, field grown ...

Valent Professional Products Hires Rod Marquardt as National Accounts Manager

Fri, 3 May 2013 11:59:15 EST

Taking the next step in a career that has led him from the grain elevators of the Canadian prairie to the Turks & Caicos Islands and back again to the North American mainland, Rod Marquardt has joined Valent Professional Products as national accounts manager.

A native of Winnipeg, Canada, Marquardt fills a new position dedicated exclusively to Valent's rapidly growing lawn care ...

Schiller Grounds Care Consolidates Manufacturing Operations

Thu, 2 May 2013 14:27:55 EST

Schiller Grounds Care announced it is consolidating its manufacturing operations. Effective immediately, production at its Norfolk, Neb., facility is being consolidated into two of Schiller's existing operations, Johnson Creek, Wis., and Southampton, Pa.

The Norfolk facility has been leased since the Classen brand was acquired in 2004. Approximately 27 full-time employees ar...

Homeowners Say Curb Appeal Important

Thu, 2 May 2013 09:29:16 EST

MISSION, Kans. - The majority of homeowners (71 percent) agreed that curb appeal is important in choosing their home, according to the new TruGreen Home Features Report conducted by the National Association of Realtors. Most of the homeowners surveyed reported purchasing a home with a healthy, green lawn (71 percent) and well-maintained landscaping (72 percent).

Healthy lawns c...

Registration Now Open for WaterSmart Innovations Conference & Expo

Wed, 1 May 2013 18:51:54 EST

LAS VEGAS - Registration is now open for the 6^th Annual WaterSmart Innovations (WSI) Conference and Exposition, scheduled for Oct. 2-4 at the South Point Hotel and Conference Center here.

The "early bird" full conference registration fee of $330 is good through Saturday, June 1. Beginning Sunday, June 2, the full registration fee will be $390. To receive the red...

Tick Season is Here: Take Precautions

Wed, 1 May 2013 18:45:49 EST

May is Lyme Disease Awareness month and a good time to re-visit methods of protection to keep yourself, family and pets protected from ticks in the coming spring/summer months. About 40,000 cases of lyme disease are documented in the US alone every year and health experts are predicting 2013 to be another bad year.
<...

New Ditch Witch Website Launched

Wed, 1 May 2013 15:54:34 EST

The Ditch Witch organization announces the launch of the new and improved Ditch Witch website at www.ditchwitch.com, which has been redesigned significantly to improve user experience. The look and feel of the site is cleaner and brighter, the navigation is more intuitive, more social media elements are included and the site is avai...

Hydro-Scape Named Southern California Distributor of Pharmgrade

Wed, 1 May 2013 15:32:28 EST

Hydro-Scape Products, Inc., has been named the exclusive Southern California distributor of Pharmgrade, a top line of fertilizers that includes organic liquid products. With the addition of Pharmgrade, Hydro-Scape now offers a variety of fertilizers to meet the requirements of every landscaper and gardener.

Pharmgrade products are perfect for homeowner, nurseries, golf courses,...

Katana Herbicide Receives Expanded EPA Registration for Sports Turf and Residential Spot Treatment

Wed, 1 May 2013 12:44:07 EST

Katana Turf Herbicide from PBI/Gordon Corporation received U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approval on expanded labeling for use on professionally managed sports turf. Previously, it had been approved only for "professionally managed college and professional sports fields." Additionally, it is now EPA registered for use as a spot weed treatment on residential turf. Currently a...

Jacobsen Adds to Sales and Support Teams

Wed, 1 May 2013 12:26:35 EST

In its continuing efforts to build and develop relationships with dealers and customers, Jacobsen, a Textron Company, recently added to its sales and support teams.

Tim Haskins recently started as territory dales manager, responsible for supporting dealers and customers in south Flor...

Precision Laboratories Deploys Water Management Expert

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 12:14:58 EST

Precision Laboratories, manufacturers of specialty chemistries that enhance plants, seeds, soil and water for the agricultural and turf industries, announced the placement of Paul Bially into a new position, technical lead - water management.

"Paul is an experienced technical specialist. We're excited to have him lead our field development of water management products," said Rick Wo...

Grasshopper Donates Mower to Combat-Wounded Veteran

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:36:36 EST

The Grasshopper Company has donated a commercial zero-turn mower to Tom Trotter, a 28-year-old retired Marine from West Melbourne, Fla., in partnership with comedian Jeff Foxworthy and San Antonio-based Military Warriors Support Foundation (MWSF).

Grasshopper and MWSF...

Melamed Riley Promotes Kathleen Battin to Senior Account Executive

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 08:24:07 EST

Melamed Riley announces the promotion of Kathleen Battin to senior account executive.

Battin will take on expanded responsibilities within the agency, including a more senior-level role on her primary client, FMC Professional Solutions. She joined Melamed Riley ...

Save $92,330 in Workers' Comp Payments? You Bet!

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EST

The landscape/lawn service industry can be a dangerous place to work. We drive trucks with heavy loads, work with power tools that cut, shred, dig and load - and the days are often long, hot and arduous. Every year several dozen landscape, tree and grounds workers die on the job and hundreds of others suffer serious injuries.

We've got to do a better job. Studies show that...

High School Class Produces Video to Promote Green Spaces

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:42:09 EST

NEW PRAGUE, Minn. - The Turf & Ornamental Communicators Association (TOCA) released a video promoting the benefits of green spaces for recreation and leisure done by a high school broadcast production class.

The video can be viewed at: http://www.youtube.com/user/TOCAchannel/videos.

T...

The Grounds Guys Franchise Expands with 20 New Locations

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:17:42 EST

The Grounds Guys landscape management is continuing its national franchise expansion with the addition of 20 new locations in the first quarter of 2013. In addition to strengthening its presence in the Midwest and Southeast regions, the company will open its inaugural franchises in Colorado, Massachusetts and Utah.

The Grounds Guys welcomes the following new franchise owne...

Hawaiian Turfgrass Named Exclusive Producer of Zeon Zoysia Grass in Hawaii

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:48:25 EST

Hawaiian Turfgrass has been named the state of Hawaii's exclusive licensed sod producer of Zeon Zoysiagrass. The grass is grown at the Hawaiian Turfgrass sod farm in Miliani on O'ahu. Zeon Zoysia sod will be ready for harvest in the summer of 2014. Zeon Zoysia is suitable for use as a home lawn yet is fine-textured and durable enough for use on sports fields and golf courses.

ArborJet Invites America to Join the "Million Tree Challenge" This Arbor Day

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 10:39:33 EST

Arborjet invites municipalities and homeowners from coast to coast to join together this Arbor Day to become part of the "Million Tree Challenge" and help save 1 million American trees.

Invasive tree pests like the emerald ash borer (EAB) are wreaking havoc on America's urban forests and have destroyed over 60 million ash trees to date, but there are effective ways to prevent t...

Bayer CropScience Donates $600,000 to Raleigh Nonprofit

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 08:52:58 EST

RALEIGH, N.C. - Passage Home, a Raleigh-based anti-poverty organization, received a $600,000 grant Thursday from Bayer CropScience to help its mission, reported WRAL.com April 26.

The money will be used to create a community garden in the Brown Birch...

Schiller Grounds Care Closes Nebraska Plant

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:40:46 EST

Classen Manufacturing, a Norfolk, Neb., company that began in Norfolk 40 years ago, is closing its doors.

Larry Classen, president of the Norfolk operations, said the closure came suddenly and without warning from Schiller Grounds Care of Southhampton, Pa., which owns Classen Manufacturing. Schiller Grounds Care also has plants in Johnson Creek, Wis., and Southampton, Pa.
...

Walker Wins Colorado Ethics in Business Alliance Award

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 09:03:15 EST

On April 12 the Colorado Ethics in Business Alliance (CEBA) honored Walker Mfg. of Fort Collins, Colo., with the Bill Daniels Business Ethics Award. More than 250 people attended the CEBA Awards Luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Convention Center to celebrate ethical practices and behaviors of Colorado community companies, individuals and organizations.

In addition to Walker Manufact...

Young & Laramore Launches All-Digital Campaign for Scotts

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:15:40 EST

INDIANAPOLIS - The majority of Scotts LawnService's ads for this year's lawn care season will be in the form of website banner ads, social promotions on Facebook and those short commercials that run ahead of videos on online sites like YouTube, reports the Indianapolis B...

"Your World, Reimagined: A Global Design Competition" Now Accepting Entries

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 12:46:27 EST

Entries are now being accepted for "Your World, Reimagined: A Global Design Competition."

Presented by Nemetschek Vectorworks, Inc., MAXON Computer, DOSCH DESIGN, Arroway Textures and AMD FireProTM graphics, "Your World, Reimagined" asks professional and student designers to tackle an old, dilapidated or rundown locale and redesign it for a new, improved use. Entries ...

Jonsered Now Available through National Distributor Network and Tractor Supply Stores Nationwide

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 09:44:47 EST

The Husqvarna Group is proud to announce the Jonsered brand is available in the United States through independent dealers nationwide and supported by a national distributor network. The Jonsered brand will also be supported by Tractor Supply Stores nationwide.

Jonsered has a range of products for both professionals and occasional users. Performance, dependability and ergonomic desig...

LebanonTurf College Tour Visits University of Massachusetts-Amherst Turf Program

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 14:56:13 EST

LebanonTurf, a leading provider of innovative plant nutrition products to the golf and landscape industries in North America, recently brought its 2013 College Tour to the University of Massachusetts-Amherst Turf Program.

Chris Gray, product marketing manager for LebanonTurf, ho...

STIHL Collaborates with City of Virginia Beach to Beautify Local Park in Honor of Earth Day

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 10:59:23 EST

STIHL, Inc. teamed with City of Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation and K & D Round's Landscape Services to clean up and renovate Beach Garden Park in Virginia Beach, Va.

This two-day project celebrated the annual Professional Landcare Network's (PLANET) Day of Service, a nationwide Earth Day event. PLANET Day of Service was organized to demonstrate the impo...

Jeff Lone Recognized as the Ditch Witch 2012 Service Manager of the Year

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 10:35:05 EST

The Ditch Witch organization awarded Jeff Lone of Ditch Witch Midwest with its 2012 Service Manager of the Year award.

The Ditch Witch Service Manager of the Year is awarded annually to the individual who promotes the highest level of product ...

Spring Seeding Strategies

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:02:43 EST

Seeding in spring is difficult and unsuccessful if not done correctly. However, there are many in Indiana who didn't seed last fall but still need to seed this spring to help fill in thin areas from last summer's drought. The following circumstances that warrant a spring seeding:

- Thin turf due to winter damage
- Poor turf density due to poor recovery from previou...

Irrigation Association Sets Dates, Locations for Future Irrigation Shows

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 08:43:32 EST

The Irrigation Association has released the dates and locations for the Irrigation Show and Education Conference in both 2014 and 2015. The 2014 Irrigation Show will be held in Phoenix, Ariz., Nov. 17-21, 2014, while the 2015 Irrigation Show will be held in Long Beach, Calif., Nov. 9-13, 2015.

"We're thrilled to host the Irrigation Show in both Phoenix and Long Beach," sa...

Takeuchi Announces FMI Sales as New Dealer in Northwest

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:51:03 EST

Takeuchi-US has announced FMI Sales as the latest addition to the Takeuchi dealer network in North America. As a full service equipment distributor, FMI Sales will represent the full line of Takeuchi compact earthmoving equipment.

FMI Sales is the equipment sales and rental division of Fiber Marketing International, Inc., which was founded in 1991, and continues to be a leadin...

Josh Kennedy Recognized for Outstanding Service with the 2012 Ditch Witch Harold Chestnut Award

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 12:11:01 EST

The Ditch Witch organization awarded Josh Kennedy of Ditch Witch of Oklahoma with its highest honor for service: the Harold Chestnut Award.

This worldwide award is presented annually to the Ditch Witch parts manager exhibiting superior ...

Hunter Releases First Corporate Social Responsibility Report

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 10:22:39 EST

Hunter announces the completion of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Report.

Researchers spent over a year measuring Hunter's seven major social and environmental impacts: climate change and energy, water use, product responsibility, waste, community, employees and human rights in supply chain. T...

FINN Promotes Keith Spitznagel to New Position of Director of Parts and Service

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:41:26 EST

FINN Corporation has promoted longtime service and production manager, Keith Spitznagel, to the new position of director of parts and service. In this role, Spitznagel's first order of business is to improve FINN's training and support capabilities, specifically to its dealers, but also to translate to its customer base in general.

With the priority on i...

Bayer CropScience Promotes Bee Health Awareness and Collaboration

Sat, 20 Apr 2013 12:05:15 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Bayer CropScience experts participated in several activities at the annual CropLife America / RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment) Spring Conference here on April 19 to promote greater bee health awareness and collaboration in agriculture.

Bayer apiologist, Dick Rogers, contributed to a panel discussion focusing on the relationship between...

7 Mulch Myths Busted

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 10:21:40 EST

Mulch is one of the essentials of good landscaping. It can be used to protect trees, suppress weeds, fertilize plants and retail soil moisture. Like many traditional practices, the use of mulch has some myths attached to it.You can improve the look of your landscapes as well as the health of plants and ...

Kim Lewey Joins Advisory Board of I'm a Great Child Worldwide

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 12:02:53 EST

Kim Lewey, co-owner of Lewey Landscaping & LawnCare, Inc., has been named to the advisory board of I'm A Great Child Worldwide, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering children and teens who then change their lives on their own. In her position, Lewey will serve as a mentor on the board, as well as offer guidance for major decisions regarding the nonprofit.

article in Businessweek April 17.

Direct Edge, Inc. Joins Morbark Dealer Network

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:46:32 EST

Morbark, Inc. has announced a contract adding Direct Edge, Inc. as a tree care products dealer for Southern California.

Located in Los Angeles County, Direct Edge, Inc. has been selling and servicing outdoor power equipment to support the tree service and landscaping industries, rental yards and independent contractors since 1979. With 14,000 square feet of office and factory space...

Hawaiian Fun in the Sun at Reinders' 21st Conference

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:09:57 EST

There may have been cold, blustery March weather outside, but there was plenty of sun, surf, leis and fun inside the Waukesha Expo Center in suburban Milwaukee, Wis., at the 21st Reinders Green Industry Conference. The show had a festive Hawaiian atmosphere which coincided with the tropical theme. Even a surfing Elvis welcomed everyone at the front door.

Senate Group Reaches Landmark Agreement on Immigration Reform Agriculture Provisions

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 16:22:26 EST

WASHINGTON D.C. - The American Nursery & Landscape Association (ANLA) and its partner, OFA - The Association of Horticulture Professionals, applaud a landmark agreement in principle on the agricultural provisions of the Senate immigration reform bill.

The agreement was reached earlier today by the Agriculture Workforce Coalition (AWC), of which ANLA is a founding member; the Uni...

BASF Plans Show Additional RTP Office Expansion

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:05:28 EST

DURHAM, N.C. - BASF is preparing for a possible additional expansion in the Research Triangle Park, where it has employees working for its crop protection business as well as at its plant science global headquarters. The company has about 760 full-time employees here. They work for the company's crop protection division, which produces insecticides, fungicides and herbicides, as well as for p...

Arysta LifeScience XONERATE App Now Available in Apple "App Store"

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:40:07 EST

Arysta LifeScience North America, LLC has launched its XONERATE Herbicide application for the iPad in the Apple "App Store."

Arysta LifeScience developed the app to help golf course superintendents and lawn care
operators in the usage of XONERATE, which eliminates Poa annua. Users can search
...

Bladerunner Farms Launches New Website

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:04:45 EST

Bladerunner Farms, the world's largest privately owned zoysiagrass research and development facility, has launched a newly designed website, www.bladerunnerfarms.com.

The site provides research updates and the latest information on low-maintenance, low-water-use, environmentally friendly zoysiagrass and buffalograss...

ROUSH CleanTech Announces Production Timing for Ford F-650 Propane Autogas Fuel Systems

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 08:54:59 EST

The propane industry, food and beverage distributors, logistics companies, tree servicing companies and public utilities are just a few examples of fleets to benefit from the ROUSH CleanTech propane autogas powered Ford F-650 chassis cab fuel system.

ROUSH CleanTech is now taking orders for the new multipurpose Ford F-650 propane autogas fuel system, with production beginn...

Stihl Offers Chain Saw Training Class in Connecticut

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:57:50 EST

A Stihl chain saw training class for all users took place April 11 at the Shelton Farmer's Market Building in downtown Shelton, Conn.

Stihl representatives offered advice on how to use chain saws, with a focus on safety.
The training session was organized for Shelton Trails Committee members, but also was open to the public at no charge.

The session was...

GIE+EXPO Workshops for Landscapers & HNA Demos Announced

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:48:56 EST

Lawn care and landscape pros interested in improving profitability have a variety of valuable opportunities to learn during the 2013 Green Industry & Equipment Expo (GIE+EXPO) Oct. 24-25 in Louisville at the Kentucky Expo Center.

Hardscape North America's collocation with GIE+EXPO means that landscape contractors can participate in sessions that not only increas...

IA Certification Program Reaches 30-Year Milestone

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:07:44 EST

The Irrigation Association's Select Certified program celebrates 30 years of recognizing exceptional commitment to efficient water management and irrigation best practices. Since 1983, IA's well-respected Select Certified program has set the bar for irrigation professionals. Today, the program includes six different credentials that help irrigation professionals establish themselves.

...

Oldcastle Architectural Acquires Harmony Outdoor Products, Inc.

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 08:56:02 EST

ATLANTA, Ga - Oldcastle Architectural has acquired Harmony Outdoor Products, Inc., expanding the company's Belgard Hardscapes collection to include a full suite of pre-built modular hardscape elements for every outdoor living setting.

"This acquisition is a strong strategic fit for our Belgard business and our commitment to bring contractors and installers solutions that will h...

Robertson Hits Home Run with Facebook Baseball Contest

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EST

Jack Robertson is an avid baseball fan. He loves the Yankees. We'll forgive him for that.

He's also the owner of Robertson Lawn Care, one of the best-known independent lawn care companies in central Illinois. Robertson founded the company 36 years ago...

Mullany resigns as CEO of The ServiceMaster Co.

Sat, 13 Apr 2013 11:23:10 EST

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Hank Mullany resigned as CEO of The ServiceMaster Co. effective Friday, April 12. Mullany's resignation was announced this past week by the company along with the appointment of John Krenicki Jr. as the Memphis-based company's interim CEO, reports the

Colorado Proclaims July 2013 as Smart Irrigation Month

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 13:16:56 EST

The Irrigation Association and CPS Distributors, Inc., Westminster, Colo., are proud to announce that Governor John Hickenlooper has proclaimed July 2013 as Smart Irrigation Month for the State of Colorado. This is the second consecutive year that Colorado has recognized Smart Irrigation Month, an Irrigation Association initiative that began in 2005.

Focusing on July, a time of peak...

Columbia International University Grounds Superintendent Awarded Elite Status

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 08:48:44 EST

Columbia International University Grounds Superintendent Norm Stewart has been named a certified grounds manager. He is one of only 143 people to achieve the status from the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS) headquartered in Baltimore, Md. PGMS unites professional grounds managers, promotes educational information regarding grounds management and assists grounds managers in maintainin...

Arysta LifeScience Receives 2(ee) Recommendation for XONERATE on Kentucky Bluegrass

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 08:32:10 EST

Arysta LifeScience has received a 2(ee) recommendation for the use of XONERATE
Herbicide on Kentucky Bluegrass from the United States Environmental Protection
Agency as part of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act.

Specifically, XONERATE will help eliminate Poa annua from Kentucky Bluegras...

Bayer CropScience Expands its Team of Turf and Ornamentals Professionals

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 14:45:00 EST

Environmental Science, a division of Bayer CropScience LP, announced within its professional turf and ornamentals (T&O) business the following six staffing appointments:

Pete Farno, lawn and landscape business manager
Patty DiMucci, marketing communications manager
Joe Steinlage, insecticides product manager
Mike Hirvela, fungicides product m...

Savio Engineering President Named Treasurer of IPPCA

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 14:19:38 EST

Valerie Steele, president and CEO of Albuquerque-based Savio Engineering, has been named to the Board of Directors of the International Professional Pond Companies Association (IPPCA). She will serve as treasurer of the organization.

The IPPCA is a nonprofit organization and serves as the pond and waterscape industry's official trade association. The IPPCA's goal is to ensure that ...

The Grounds Guys 100th Franchisee Too Busy to Celebrate

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 09:52:09 EST

Jason Borawski, Old Bridge, N.J,. is the 100th franchisee of Grounds Guys Landscape Management. With six employees, the 20-year veteran of lawn care and his staff offer a complete line of lawn maintenance, landscaping, design/build and snow removal.

"We recently came on board with the Grounds Guys because Adam Rogers, in Waco, Texas, kept calling and explaining the advantages of ...

Lawn Doctor is in the Business of Keeping Things Green

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 09:48:55 EST

Thomas Norton's father started Lawn Doctor hoping to provide his four sons with job security.

And Lawn Doctor is where Thomas Norton wound up. After earning a degree in environmental studies from Colgate University and playing American football in Spain for five years, he moved back home to Braintree in 1998 and went to work for the company full time.

Today, Norton...

Dow AgroSciences Opens New Facility at Global Headquarters State, Company Officials Cut Ribbon on R&D Expansion

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 09:31:05 EST

Executives from The Dow Chemical Company (NYSE: DOW) and Dow AgroSciences were joined by Indiana Gov. Mike Pence at a Research & Development (R&D) expansion ribbon-cutting event for a new 175,000-square-foot R&D facility at Dow AgroSciences' Global Headquarters.

This new facility is part of a global growth plan for Dow AgroSciences' research efforts for the development a...

Associa Names ValleyCrest "Most Valuable Partner"

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 08:21:05 EST

ValleyCrest Landscape Companies has been named "Most Valuable Partner" by Associa, a national leader in association management.

The first annual award recognizes the trade partner within the Associa Advantage Network who maintains the highest standards in all categorie...

Netafim Releases New Landscape & Turf Product Catalog for Drip/Micro Irrigation

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 14:07:03 EST

Netafim USA has released a new Landscape & Turf Product Catalog that features the company's comprehensive line of drip and micro irrigation products. Netafim is among the world's leading manufacturers of water-efficient dripline tubing and has supplied low volume landscape irrigation products for more than 20 years.

Aquascape Announces Date and Theme for Pondemonium 2013

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 13:05:16 EST

Aquascape, Inc. has set the dates of Aug. 22-24 for its annual Pondemonium training event, which is now in its 13th season as the pond industry's premiere business and networking event for distributors, contractors and retailers. This year's theme, "Fit for the Fight", focuses on keeping your water garden business in shape in order to meet the ever-changing demands of today's market.

Upcoming UMass Turf Insect ID Workshops

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 12:02:42 EST

Accurate identification of turf damaging pests is the first step toward effective, integrated management. Knowing the target pest is key to understanding the biology and life cycle, determining threshold levels for damage, and making informed and responsible control decisions.

UMass Turf Entomologist Pat Vittum will lead this half-day session focusing on the identification of turf i...

Oldcastle Architectural Acquires Harmony Outdoor Products, Inc.

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 10:18:04 EST

Oldcastle Architectural has acquired Harmony Outdoor Products, Inc., expanding the company's Belgard Hardscapes collection to include a full suite of pre-built modular hardscape elements for every outdoor living setting.

Oldcastle first partnered with Harmony Outdoor Products four years ago to offer contractors the option of the Belgard Elements Collection of modular fire features, ...

Deadline Extended: Irrigation Show Technical Session Submissions

Tue, 9 Apr 2013 11:08:42 EST

The deadline has been extended to submit technical papers and presentation abstracts for Technical Sessions at the 2013 Irrigation Show and Education Conference, Nov. 4 - 8 in Austin, Texas.

For consideration as a presenter, interested parties may submit 150-word abstracts online until Tuesday, April 16.

Visit
Program registration is $10 and is payable at the door. Attendees are requested to RSVP in advance to Angel Torres at 210-467-6575 or m...

ScottsMiracle-Gro and Acme United Launch Innovative Lawn and Garden Tools

Fri, 5 Apr 2013 10:04:05 EST

Acme United Corporation and The ScottsMiracle-Gro Company formed a licensing partnership to create two new lines of innovative lawn and garden tools which will enter the home and garden market this May-Scotts AirShoc, aimed at lawn care professionals and serious DIYers, and the Miracle-Gro EnviroLine, developed for home gardeners. The two product lines will be officially unveiled at the Nati...

The Aquascape Foundation Installs Rainwater Harvesting System in Dominican Republic

Fri, 5 Apr 2013 08:34:41 EST

ST. CHARLES, Ill. - A team of Aquascape Foundation volunteers installed a 15,000 gallon rainwater harvesting system in the Dominican Republic at FilterPure Filters, a non profit organization committed to providing safe drinking water to at-risk populations of the developing world. The captur...

NH Landscape Association Partners with Rotary Clubs

Thu, 4 Apr 2013 14:29:58 EST

The New Hampshire Landscape Association (NHLA) has again approved a partnership agreement with the National Landcare Network, known as PLANET, by participating in a nationwide public space beautification effort known as PLANET Day of Service. This year steps up the New Hampshire landscape enhancement commitment, centered on Earth Week 2013.

PLANET Day of Service is an annu...

John Deere Ottumwa Works Promotes Engineering to Female Students

Thu, 4 Apr 2013 10:44:31 EST

John Deere Ottumwa Works and some of their staff spent Tuesday morning introducing the next generation of potential employees to some possibilities. Around 50 students, all girls from Evans Middle School, spent four hours with engineers, building and testing various gadgets.

"Introduce a Girl to Engineering" will hopefully get some of the students thinking. Amber Pargmann, an ...

Teachers Receive V.I.P. Treatment at the Philadelphia Science Festival and Summer Science Institute Thanks to FMC

Thu, 4 Apr 2013 08:52:11 EST

For the first time, the Philadelphia Science Festival will celebrate teachers with free professional development workshops, resources and a teachers' lounge at its Science Carnival on the Parkway. FMC Corporation is sponsoring these activities through its $100,000 "Teaching the Science of Curiosity" grant.

On Saturday, April 20 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., teac...

Hunter Industries Becomes Inaugural IA Platinum Member

Wed, 3 Apr 2013 10:56:45 EST

Hunter Industries (San Marcos, Calif.) is now a platinum member of the Irrigation Association, the first company to assume the top echelon of membership. In addition to serving as a key association support mechanism, the designation provides for expanded member benefits, in addition to traditional IA member discounts.

The benefits of IA membership are vast-from access to powerful pe...

Study Finds Heat Key Factor in Population Growth of Some Urban Pests

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 14:59:42 EST

RALEIGH, N.C. - New research from North Carolina State University finds that higher temperatures found in urban environments are a key contributor to higher populations of insect pests called scale insects - indicating that an increase in temperatures associated wit...

TifGrand Certified Bermuda Grass Now Available for Lawns, Golf Courses and Sports Fields in Hawaii

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 14:49:05 EST

Hawaiian Turfgrass, the exclusive licensed producer of TifGrand Certified Bermudagrass in Hawaii, has announced that this shade-tolerant turfgrass developed at the turfgrass research program at the University of Georgia, is now available for harvest and sale from the company's sod farm based in Mililani, O'ahu, Hawaii.

A fine-textured bermudagrass, TifGrand Certified Bermudagra...

Scotts Miracle-Gro Names Hilsheimer CFO

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 11:55:18 EST

MARYSVILLE, Ohio - The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, Monday, April 1, said that LarryHilsheimer has been named executive vice president and chief financial officer effective immediately.

Hilsheimer was executive vice president and chief financial officer of Nationwide ...

Young Owners Bringing New Energy to Our Industry

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 11:48:22 EST

I love being part of the green industry for many reasons but most of all because I get to know people who genuinely enjoy what they're doing. They view the landscape/lawn service industry as a fulfilling career opportunity and not just a job and a paycheck.

This past week I dr...

Horizon Donates Jacobsen Greensmowers to the University of Florida

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 11:36:41 EST

Horizon Distributors, Inc. has donated two new Jacobsen ECLIPSE walking greensmowers to the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) in Ft. Lauderdale.

Turfgrass universities like the University of Florida's IFAS typically manage large turf plots that need to be maintained with the same professional equipment used on golf courses and sports fields....

Ecologel Solutions, LLC Earns USDA Certified Biobased Product Label

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 10:33:20 EST

Ecologel Solutions, LLC has earned the USDA Certified Biobased Product Label for its Hydretain ES Plus and Moisture Manager. The USDA Certified Biobased Product Label verifies that the products amount of renewable biobased ingredients meets or exceeds prescribed USDA standards. Biobased products are goods composed in whole or in significant part of agricultural, forestry or marine materials.

Barenbrug USA Appoints James Schneider as CEO

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 10:28:35 EST

Barenbrug USA has appointed James Schneider as the new CEO and president. Starting May 1, Schneider will lead Barenbrug USA to further expand its market share in the US and export markets.

Prior to joining Barenbrug, Schneider helped JB Instant Lawn and Nursery significantly expand the scope of their sod and grass seed business throughout the Northwest, serving both the wholes...

Irrigation Foundation Awards Career Day Winners Trips to Irrigation Show

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 08:45:01 EST

The Irrigation Foundation announces irrigation winners of the Professional Landscape Network's Student Career Days annual competition. The Irrigation Foundation co-sponsored three irrigation-related competitions at this year's event. More than 850 students from 71 schools participated in PLANET's 37th Annual Student Career Days, March 7-10, in Auburn, Ala., at Auburn University.

Kichler Offers 2013 Hands-On Landscape Lighting Training Seminars

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 13:17:14 EST

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Landscape lighting professionals and irrigation contractors can elevate their skills, knowledge, credentials and marketability by attending one of Kichler's Certified Landscape Lighting Training Seminars.

By attending one of the two-day training course options available, attendees ranging from novice landscape lighting specialists to industry veter...

FIELDS, Inc., Announces Promotions

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 09:42:09 EST

CANTON, Ga. - FIELDS, Inc., a sports general contractor, recently promoted several members of its executive leadership team due to the ongoing growth of the company with numerous sports field projects around the country. FIELDS, Inc. named Pete Fox as vice president of quality assurance, Jeff Scott as operations manager, and Michael Harris as senior project manager.

"Fields is ...

Takeuchi Expands Partnership with H&E Equipment Services Inc.

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 08:45:30 EST

ATLANTA, Ga. - Takeuchi-US, manufacturer of compact construction and earthmoving equipment, expanded its partnership with H&E Equipment Services, Inc. in several locations throughout the Southwest Region. H&E Equipment Services, Inc. locations in Louisiana - Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Kenner, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Shreveport - and Little Rock, Arkansas have been appointed authorized ...

ValleyCrest Named a Top Training Organization by Training Mag

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 08:19:03 EST

For the third year in a row, ValleyCrest has been named one of the Top 125 training
companies by Training magazine. This year the magazine ranked ValleyCrest number 98 on the list, a 16-spot jump over last year's ranking of 114. ValleyCrest is the only landscape services firm named on this year's list.

At U.S. Lawns March Came in Like a Lion

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 08:38:48 EST

Don't tell U.S. Lawns about the slow economy. March came in like a lion when it comes to growth. They are building a stronger brand at a fast pace, having added four new franchise locations in March, now reaching new record growth of over 260 locations nationwide.

Each franchisee'...

Profile Products Launches Online Video Library Resource

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 14:53:38 EST

Profile Products has launched a robust online video resource library for contractors and specifiers at Profileevs.com. The video library showcases more than a dozen segments of varying themes, including product demonstrations, application instruction guides and technical video segments.

The collection of videos will...

Terminix Prez Leaving ServiceMaster

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 11:58:51 EST

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Terminix announced that President Chuck Fallon has decided to leave the company, effective March 29, to take over as chief executive officer of FirstService Residential, a subsidiary of FirstService Corporation, the largest manager of residential communities in North America.

Larry Pruitt will serve as interim president of Terminix, and report to ServiceMaster ...

Takeuchi-US Announces New Midwest Regional Product Manager

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 10:33:32 EST

Takeuchi-US has appointed Jeff Vodnik as Midwest regional product manager. In this position he will be responsible for all equipment sales activity within the Midwest region, and his other duties will include product training for dealer sales staff and assisting with equipment demonstrations for new and existing Takeuchi dealers.

"I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mr....

Direction of H-2B Program Unclear; PLANET Continues to Fight

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 15:34:56 EST

We have two new developments on the H-2B program to report. First, those landscape contractors who are currently using the H-2B program and who have already filed their applications for this season should be able to proceed as normal. However, the future of the program is still unclear.

Last week, Congress passed a bill to fund the federal government through Sept. 30, 2013, th...

Husqvarna Appoints Kai Warn President and CEO

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 10:20:42 EST

Swedish garden equipment manufacturer Husqvarna AB has appointed Kai Warn as president and CEO, beginning July 1, 2013. Hans Linnarson, who was appointed president and CEO in 2011, will continue to work for the group until he retires early 2014.

Warn worked for power and automation technologies company ABB Ltd (ABB) between 1985 and 2004, where he held various senior internatio...

Noon Turf Care Hosts Company-Wide Cross-Training Event

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 16:34:50 EST

HUDSON, Ma. - Noon Turf Care's team of branch and corporate managers hosted its 3rd annual cross-training event for all of their team members. Cross-training is a concept in which Noon Turf Care places team members from one department to another department within the company for training to help teach team members of all aspects and segments of the lawn care business and industry.

E15 Goes to Supreme Court - OPEI Responds

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:10:48 EST

Kris Kiser has responded to the following news release with this statement: "OPEI, as part of the Engine Products Group, has filed an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court to review the DC Circuit Court of Appeals' claim that we did not have standing to challenge the EPA on a partial waiver for E15. This appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court reflects the seriousness of this issue for the outdoor p...

Kawasaki Announces "Two-Fisted Cash Back" Promotion

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 09:26:24 EST

Effective March 15, many of Kawasaki's commercial grade hand-held power products started coming with an extra bit of green attached-in the form of a cash rebate, not grass or shrubbery.

The company has launched its "Two-Fisted Cash Back" rebate program that applies to purchases made from March 15 through June 30, 2013. Customers who send in the rebate card will receive up to $25 for...

STC Spring Meeting Draws Nice Crowd

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 12:29:11 EST

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - More than 175 members and guests from 102 companies attended the Synthetic Turf Council's (STC) spring membership meeting here March 11-13. These included builders, landscape architects, testing labs, maintenance providers, manufacturers, suppliers, installation contractors, infill material suppliers and other specialty service companies.

STC Chairman John Bai...

Updated Concert Info for GIE+EXPO

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 12:05:07 EST

On Wednesday, Oct. 23, country music star Craig Morgan will perform free at 4th Street Live! in downtown Louisville on the Nissan Commercial stage as the opening concert for the Green Industry & Equipment Expo (GIE+EXPO).

Morgan will perform from an impressive body of work that includes 14 top 10 hits such as "Redneck Yacht Club," "International Harvester," "Almost Home,...

Kawasaki Exits Hand-Held Power Products Segment

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 10:49:03 EST

The Engines and Power Products Division of Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC), has announced it will no longer remain in the hand-held power products business category after December 31, 2013. The company's dealers were notified of the supplier's decision to halt production of the Kawasaki branded equipment, effective at the end of this year.

Kawasaki said the move allows the compa...

Toro Helps Irrigation Foundation Send Students to Irrigation Show

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 13:06:53 EST

In support of the Irrigation Foundation and one of its key initiatives, the Irrigation Foundation recently received a $20,000 donation from the Toro Company. In addition to being a founding donor, Toro is also being recognized as a master sponsor of the Irrigation Foundation and as an initiative sponsor supporting Irrigation Show student attendees.

"The Irrigation Foundation has mad...

Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Application

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 09:18:57 EST

Dr. Aaron Patton at Purdue University reminds those of us in the Midwest, Great Lakes and Northeast that, yes, spring will arrive . . .eventually.

In his latest post to the Purdue Turfgrass Team's excellent bog, Turftips, of an excellent tool to determine the most opportune time to make applications to turfgrass u...

Jobs and Skills Key Focus of Green Industry College Championship

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 09:15:07 EST

More than 800 college students from 70 colleges and universities competed for top honors at the Professional Landcare Network's (PLANET) recent Student Career Days, the collegiate championship for the green industry, held at Auburn University from March ...

OPEI Offers 6 Fuel-Related Tips When Preparing Your Lawn & Garden Equipment for Spring

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 09:02:13 EST

Spring has sprung, and that means the annual cleaning and preparation of lawn and garden equipment. Whether it's a mower, trimmer, blower, chain saw or pruner, if it runs on gasoline, the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute recommends a series of steps to avoid fuel-related problems and ensure a smooth-running engine.

"Many are so eager to pull out lawn and garden equipment once sprin...