As a member of CLCA’s Legislative Committee, one the greatest benefits to serving in this capacity is the ability to keep your hands on the pulse of California government. With Covid-19 the heart rate of the legislature is running very high and that is not a good thing.

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During a personal quiet time during a beautiful morning, I found time to ponder and meditate. I began thinking that there is something within each one of us that attracted us to the landscape industry and allied trades – something that I’ll refer to as “a calling of the heart.” It was with much thoughtfulness that you made that decision…making sure you made the right choice. I like to consider that decision a seed that is planted in the “soil” of our mind…in the garden of our life.

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Recently, I completed my recertification for Certified Tree Care Safety Professional (CTSP) under the Tree Care Industry Association. Due to the pandemic the training had to be done virtually. Although the system did have the usual first-time hiccups, the content was engaging and confirmed that I need to continually improve how our employees are trained. The exam was focused on the American National Standards for Arboricultural Operations Safety Requirements ANSI Z133 and how to effectively train using on the job techniques.

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In times of social unrest, we all have a proclivity to reassess ourselves and what priorities superseded others. Within our businesses we are constantly being asked to value the cost of equipment, training, marketing, and other indirect investments. This time of year, many of us are asked to make that decision regarding CLCA with your annual dues renewal or a solicitation to join if you are not a current member. So, what are good parameters to make the decision to renew your membership or join CLCA?

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Summer is officially here! Our clients are now spending more time at home and in their communities than ever before. After speaking with many landscape contractors there appears to be a healthy pipeline of work. People are optioning to spend their money on landscape projects since they will not be able to spend money on vacations or decide on large purchases as easily. While I am busy as ever, I did have time to reflect on the benefits of the work that we do. Here are my thoughts on the Five Benefits of Landscapes…

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Don’t pretend there is not a problem. Racism is real and it affects our lives. We must not think it doesn’t affect us. Don’t think that you can’t be part of the change. Let’s all be part of the change. Reach out, support a cause. We all have a duty to care.

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Today is a perfect time to learn. With social distancing becoming the norm, we are spending more time on our own. Learning has many benefits. As you learn, your body increases the production of myelin which improves the brain’s ability to learn better and faster. This will help you fight off boredom by keeping you engaged and looking forward to new information. Now more than ever we know life can throw us curve balls that force us to change. With increased skills we may be better adapted to change.

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